Film enthusiasts, rejoice. Leica, the iconic German camera manufacturer, recently announced that it would be reintroducing the M6 film camera. The M6, which was first introduced in 1984 and was in production until 2002, is widely considered to be one of the best film cameras ever made. Its reintroduction is a nod to the growing popularity of film photography in the digital age.
The Leica M6 is a rangefinder camera, which means that it uses a system of mirrors and prisms to superimpose a bright-line frame over the image being captured. This makes it easy to compose shots and focus accurately, even in low-light conditions. The camera also features a manual-focus design, which allows for greater creative control and a more tactile shooting experience. The M6's compact and lightweight design also makes it a great option for street photography, travel and reportage.
One of the standout features of the M6 is its TTL light metering system, which measures the light coming through the lens and automatically sets the aperture and shutter speed. This feature makes the M6 a great option for photographers of all skill levels, as it eliminates the need for a separate light meter and makes it easier to capture well-exposed images.
Leica has also announced that the M6 will be available in two finishes: the classic black paint and chrome finish, and a new silver chrome finish. The company has also added a new sapphire crystal cover for the viewfinder, which is scratch-resistant and provides a clear view of the frame lines.
The return of the M6 is a sign that film photography is still alive and well. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in film photography, with many photographers rediscovering the joys of working with film. There's something special about the process of shooting film, from loading the camera to developing the negatives, that can't be replicated with digital technology. Film also has a unique look and feel that can't be replicated with digital sensors, and many photographers find that it helps them to slow down and think more about their compositions.
Overall, the reintroduction of the Leica M6 is a welcome development for photographers who appreciate the art and craft of film photography. The camera's compact, lightweight design and TTL light metering system make it an ideal option for street photography, travel and reportage, while its interchangeable lens system allows photographers to create images with a unique look and feel. Here at Gear Focus, were particularly excited to see how this reintroduction will affect the used gear market of vintage Leicas. Will photographers be eager to fetch the newest item, or will it just make film enthusiasts crave the vintage original more?