I started off with the 28mm f/2.8, the 50mm f/2, & the 90mm f/2. They’re great lenses! I plan to get the 28mm f/2, and sell the f/2.8.

I then got the Voightlander 50mm f/1.1 and the pre-ASPH 35mm f/2. UV filters on all lenses.

Like Steve, I use the Leica grip replacement baseplate.

I use the Match Technical Thumbs-Up CS3, their Boop soft-release and their 1.25x magnifier for 50mm-up. I got a Luigi case as Steve suggested – half-case, cut-out for Thumbs-Up, snap-on back cover, Leica grip customization, and tripod screw customization.

The strap I use is the BlackRapid RS-5 – it’s a rifle-sling strap, really changes the way you shoot! I carry a small LensPen, a small SensorPen, a lens cloth, a spare battery, and spare memory cards, along with the 1.25x magnifier, in the pocket on the BlackRapid strap.

Finally, I carry lenses in the pockets of my cargo shorts – each lens in a separate pocket, so nothing to scratch them – or in a Domke photo vest (again, one lens/pocket, so nothing scratches them). No bag, no ‘kit’.

;>

So again, a flash IMO is not desirable. This will give you a flat, unnatural look as well as take away from the M experience with added bulk and size.

The M9 size, comparetively quiet shutter and great quality lenses with great OOF are all positivie attributes. Fast AF, zoom, long focal length, macro and great high ISO IQ are also quite useful on occasion.

I have two photographic opportunites upcoming both of which a DSLR with a zoom will be better choice. No doubt the M9 can take some unique, perhaps even spectacular photographs, but it will also miss so many that I cannot take the risk.

Like many who read this web site, the M9 is the best for my main interest in photography – i.e. people. But it does not do everything and there are times the positive attributes of rangefinders are overshowded by the shortcomings of the system.

If you need dioptric correction, you should consider this :
http://us.leica-camera.com/photography/m_system/accessories/viewfinder_accessories/2210.html

I used one on my M6 years ago, when I was short-sighted, and it was great (now that I had eye surgery I have perfect vision… ;o) )

Steve, thanks for your answers. I read them with much interest.

Regards

Cedric

Thank you for great web site.

I get my M9 in january.

Great decision! I used Leica (M6+M7+MP) for more than 10 years with slide films, but never in digital. The convenience of digital made switch to canon 20 D, and Last summer I upgraded canon 20D to 5DII (5 L lenses); canon is an excellent gear with the L lenses, but it cannot be compared to Leica. Holding the canon has always made me the focus of attention (looking like a photographer or a tourist), my children many times they hide their faces (“not again daddy!”), in addition to right shoulder pain from carrying >5 lbs. With Leica, it is back to the essence of photography: aperture/shutter speed/ focus/compose and click! Magic!
About Leica lenses: there is no bad lens. Each lens has its character; I often compare my Leica lenses to fine wine. I have the three lenses you are planning to buy (I used them on non-digital, my 50 is pre-asph): you will see each will tell you a different story.
Leica experience is unique and sensational, the price is high, but these days it is better than leaving the money in the Bank or give it to the Wall Street folks.
I am waiting for my M9 and hoping to be able to pass on this passion to my children.
Thank you Steve for your nice web.