The decision to upgrade camera gear, especially within high-end brands like Leica, is significant. The shift from the Leica M10 to the M11, for instance, represents not just a financial investment but also a commitment to a specific photographic approach and style. Here's why one photographer thought the upgrade was worth it.
Coming to you from Benj Haisch, this video essay discusses five reasons he loves his Leica M11. The M11's improved dynamic range stands out as a primary factor for the upgrade. This enhancement is crucial for photographers who often work in challenging lighting It's comparable to other high-performing cameras, like the Sony a7R V, making it particularly beneficial for outdoor and street photography, where control over lighting is limited. Another noteworthy feature is the M11's internal storage, providing a much-appreciated redundancy for wedding photographers. It's a feature I'm surprised every modern camera doesn't have.
The M11's ISO 64 setting and 61-megapixel sensor are also significant upgrades. In partricular, the higher megapixel count brings a new level of detail and flexibility in post-processing, while Leica's clever resolution options allow one to save storage space and improve noise performance should they not need all that extra resolution. Altogether, the M11 is an impressively clever camera that can satisfy the needs of many demanding creatives. Check out the video above for Haisch's full thoughts.