LEICA X-E (Typ102) | SHOOTING REPORT
The full metal silver body with leatherette just stands out from the majority of Leica cameras which are black. And, it's a great fashion item and it suits your casual outfit. Carry it always and shoot whenever you find something interesting. The "MADE IN GERMANY" engraving means everything from designing to manufacturing has been done in Germany. While it's as thin as the film M cameras, it has the large 16.2 megapixel APS-C size sensor. In a sense, the size of sensor means a lot for digital cameras because it influences the depth of image quality. And, this powerful sensor catches light through the Elmarit f2.8/24mm ASPH. The angle of view is equivalent to 35mm in 35mm format. This moderately wide angle is great for everyday shooting as it covers snapshots as well as landscapes, and it's easy to compose even in the space where one can't step back. Because of these features, the Leica X-E should appeal to both Leica fans and those who are new to Leica.
( Photography: A.Inden / Text: KIMURAX )
Simple function. Just for shooting photography.
Because cameras come with so many functions since they became digital, people (including myself) tend to expect new functions from a new product. However, the Leica X-E betrays such expectation in a good way. The menu screen on the 2.7-inch rear LCD screen has only 1 page and this must be surprising enough for someone who are used to Japanese digital cameras being extremely multi-functionalized. Of course, it doesn't have movie function, either and that's probably because everything is devoted to execute one clear mission - taking photography. And, I think they intended to narrow down the essential functions so that users can focus on shooting. "Simple is best." For a long time, people support tools that are easy to use. I feel so good to compose with a Leica camera because it is designed by their unwavering philosophy, and I start to take each shot carefully and heartily. This camera is more than a tool. It gives me pleasure and tension.
I shot the black subject with dark shadow tone. It faithfully reproduced the straight press lines, glossy finish, and the beautifully distorted reflections. Also, the tonal gradation of the side fenders isn't lost, and this must be due to the large sensor.
I shot the pan-focused photo wide open. The left and right bokeh make the people in the center pop out from the background. Utilizing the reflection of the illumination, I think I could lead viewer's attention. Also, the roughness of the printed surface is reproduced wonderfully.
This one was also shot wide open and it has a great 3D quality. You may feel the 30cm minimum focus distance could be shorter, but in this shot, it looks close enough. Is she sleeping or thinking about something? Anyway, it gently depicted the carefree face with shadow tone.
Because of the lightweight and ease of use, this camera blends into daily lives. So, I can shoot whatever I feel touched by quite naturally. If you take time in shooting every image, I'm sure you'll be amazed by the images taken. The handrail receiving the dim light adds to the tranquil mood.
After the rain, the shining light makes ordinary subjects attractive. The bamboo fence looked as if it were rejuvenated by the moisture, so I took this shot. This camera is perfect for casual snapshooting because the small body can be hung from the shoulder or put into the pocket.
It perfectly depicted the detail of the vivid and minute subject. For this review, I shot RAW to try developing the data as well, but I recommend shooting JPEG just like shooting slide films because the picture quality realized by the "film modes" is at the level we expect from Leica. In the "natural" mode, the controlled saturation realizes "sober" images. This feature shows the clear difference from Japanese camera makers and I think it's also because of the difference of lights among countries.
I shouldn't compare this camera with Leica M cameras, but the clear advantage of using the X-E is its shorter minimum focus distance. To shoot subject like this, it's best to focus manually looking at the magnified viewfinder image. Of course, as you see, the image quality is excellent.
The best snapshooter in your palm
Although the appearance has changed dramatically, the basic concept has been carried from the X1/X2. The combination of the palm-size body and the single focal lens equivalent to 35mm makes this camera the best companion for walking and travelling. Also, the response including the AF has been improved, so you can also leave everything to the camera. The sophisticated user interface lets you control the camera with dials intuitively. For example, you can shoot with a style by stopping down to gain the depth of field while fixing the focus manually - just like we do with a screw-mount Leica cameras.
( 2014.09.27 )
