Elevate Your Photography with the Leica Q2: A True Masterpiece

There are devices that simply transcend the ordinary and redefine what’s possible. The Leica Q2 is one such masterpiece that took the photography world by storm in 2019, and it appears in 2023 it has grown even more in popularity. This review is a celebration of the Leica Q2, a camera that seamlessly marries cutting-edge technology with classic craftsmanship, delivering an unparalleled experience for photographers who demand nothing but the best.

Leica Q2 – “Work” turned into “Fun”

I have been a long term Sony Alpha shooter. From the A7Rii, A7ii, A7iii, A7Riii, A7IV, Sony A9, and the Sony A9ii. I’ve used all those cameras during my photography career, and still do. The autofocus precision and picture quality is second to none. As someone who has shot close to 300 weddings and events for my work and I am very blessed by what I have photographed, there comes a time when you want to separate work with a little fun, and thats where the Leica Q2 enters.

The moment I picked up a Leica Q2 I was blown away by the build, but not only that it whisked me away back to the days of school and college when I shot black and white film. Those days of shooting all day and going back to the dark room to see what I captured was fun, there was fun in the process, and its pure fun to use the Leica Q2.

Unveiling Perfection in Every Frame:

From the moment you hold the Leica Q2 in your hands, it’s evident that you’re dealing with a work of art. The attention to detail in its design, the quality of its materials, and the reassuring heft of its body speak volumes about the level of precision that goes into crafting each Leica camera. The Q2 is not just a camera; it’s an embodiment of a legacy, a symbol of excellence that stands as a testament to Leica’s commitment to perfection.

Sensor:

At the heart of the Leica Q2 lies a 47.3-megapixel full-frame sensor that captures images with breathtaking clarity and detail. Whether you’re capturing sprawling landscapes or intimate portraits, the sensor’s performance is nothing short of exceptional. Every frame is a canvas waiting to be painted with the vivid colours, intricate textures, and stunning contrasts that the Q2 effortlessly delivers. This sensor truly elevates photography to an art form, the way it renders light, shadows, contrast and tones is unlike any camera I have used.

Summilux Magic:

The Leica Q2 boasts a Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH lens that can only be described as magical. The lens’s ability to create dreamy bokeh, even in challenging lighting conditions, is a testament to Leica’s optical prowess. Whether you’re shooting wide open to capture captivating portraits or stopping down for crisp landscapes, the Summilux lens consistently performs with remarkable sharpness and clarity.

Many speak about the “Leica look” and I have heard this phrase way too many times, but with the Leica Q2 it is true. The micro-contrast and the way the tones blend together is a thing of beauty. The look is probably down to the incredible Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH lens, which in my opinion is the nicest lens I have used, and I have consistently used Sony GM lenses for years.

I am avid 35mm (full frame) shooter, its my favourite focal length, especially for weddings. I would go as far as saying I have shot entire weddings with the Sony FE 35mm f1.4 GM lens, so I was curious how I would find the Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH. In all honestly I love it. It’s wide, but not too wide, and with the ability to digitally crop in to 35mm via the camera its a dream. The lens also comes with a macro option, which is just outstanding.

Intuitive Innovation:

While the Leica Q2 pays homage to its rich heritage, it’s also unafraid to embrace modern technology. The camera’s intuitive touchscreen interface and customisable controls put creative control at your fingertips. Navigating menus, adjusting settings, and reviewing images become seamless experiences, allowing you to focus on capturing moments instead of getting lost in the technicalities.

Autofocus, Better Than I Expected:

I had read and watched many reviews of the Leica Q2 poor autofocus, and granted it’s not on par with todays latest and greatest cameras. I can safely say that I have been surprised by how good it is. Locking on is snappy, and I have even found the tracking to be pretty good. The lens can fuss when trying to acquire focus, but that is something I don’t mind living with.

There are a series of autofocus area modes:

Built for the Adventurous Spirit:

The Leica Q2 is hugely popular with street photographers, and for good reason. With its weather-sealed construction, rugged build quality, and ergonomic design, the Q2 is a reliable companion in any environment. From bustling city streets to remote landscapes, this camera is built to withstand the elements and capture the essence of the world around you.

The Drawbacks:

No camera is perfect, as much as I love the Leica Q2 there are some drawbacks.

1. Price Tag: One of the most glaring negatives of the Leica Q2 is its hefty price tag. Leica cameras have always been known for their premium quality and craftsmanship, but the Q2’s cost can be a major deterrent for many photography enthusiasts. With its luxury branding and limited target audience, the price might put this camera out of reach for many who are looking for a capable compact camera without breaking the bank.
2. Fixed Lens Limitation: While the Leica Q2’s fixed Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH lens offers exceptional image quality and low-light performance, it can also be a limitation for photographers who prefer the flexibility of interchangeable lenses. The inability to switch to different focal lengths or experiment with various lenses might frustrate those who enjoy a more diverse photography experience, such as portrait, macro, or telephoto shots.
3. Bulk and Weight: Despite being categorised as a compact camera, the Leica Q2 is relatively heavier than some of its competitors. The Leica Q2 camera has an approximate weight of 734 grams (1.62 pounds) including the battery. I haven’t personally found this a problem, considering for years I was carrying around big DSLR cameras. So the weight not a problem, but it did take me a little time to get used to holding it. There’s no grip, so you end up holding the camera in an odd way. I solved this problem by purchasing a third party grip.
4. Lack of Advanced Video Features: While the Leica Q2 excels in still photography, its video capabilities leave something to be desired. With limited video recording options, lack of advanced video features like high frame rates or 4K at higher bitrates, and no external microphone input, the Q2 may not be the best choice for videographers or content creators who require versatile video functionality.
5. Autofocus in Lowlight: This is from my own personal experience. I recently took along my Leica Q2 to a wedding. Beautiful light outside the venue, but inside it was a dim setting. I found the Leica Q2 to struggle to focus in lowlight, but after taking my time it would lock on. Upon reviewing the RAW photos at my desk I found a hit rate of around 50%, with the other 50% blurry. This is despite the fact I was shooting at f1.7, 1/250 shutter speed and iso 2000-3200. After a series of tests I turned off the Image Stabilisation and this appears to have fixed the blurry problem.

The Leica Q2 camera undoubtedly has a lot to offer in terms of image quality and performance, but it’s important to acknowledge its drawbacks as well. From its high price point and fixed lens limitation to its video shortcomings, potential buyers should carefully consider whether the Q2 aligns with their specific photography needs and preferences. As with any piece of technology, weighing the pros and cons will ultimately help individuals make an informed decision that suits their creative vision and budget.

Conclusion:

In a world of cameras, the Leica Q2 is a true standout – a marvel of engineering, a work of art, and an instrument of boundless creative expression. With its impeccable sensor, remarkable lens, user-friendly interface, and robust construction, the Q2 redefines what’s possible in photography. It’s not just a camera; it’s a journey into the heart of visual storytelling. The Leica Q2 really has brought the “fun” back into photography for me, and I rarely leave home without it

The Leica Q2 is a camera that covers all bases. I could rely on it day in and day out for the next decade without a hint of monotony. Its capabilities are so exceptional that it’s unlikely to become outdated over that entire span. This camera effortlessly fulfils every expectation I have of it – from capturing my journeys, candid street shots, and intimate portraits, to documenting my family’s moments and crafting captivating stills of our ordinary routines. Furthermore, it indulges my creative impulses, even allowing me to delve into the world of macro photography whenever the inspiration strikes.

In essence, the Leica Q2 stands as a remarkably versatile and exhilarating photographic tool, igniting a genuine desire within me to capture moments through its lens. This, I believe, is the essence of a truly impactful camera.

The Leica Q2 is without doubt my favourite camera of all time, and I do not regret getting one.