ARTICLE BY ANELKA.WHO
Is Leica Worth It? My Thoughts After Owning the Leica Q3
I believe every photographer in the world knows this brand and the feeling you get when you see another photographer holding a Leica. There's something undeniably mystical about Leica in the world of photography, and even if you're not a photographer, the name is instantly recognizable. But what’s behind this iconic brand? Does it truly live up to its reputation?
For a long time, I could only admire from a distance. I’d see photographers with a Leica and wonder: Is this just a person with too much money, or does this brand genuinely represent the essence of photography?
Recently, I had the chance to step over to the other side. After almost a year of waiting, I finally walked into a Leica store to pick up my very own Leica Q3. Yes, you read that right—a 12-month wait for a product I ordered. It was the first time in my life that I was willing to accept such a delay for something. But hey—it’s Leica. It’s supposed to be worth it, right?
The Leica Experience MIXED FEELINGS
One thing I’ve heard time and again from colleagues who’ve held a Leica for the first time is:“Is it normal for the autofocus to lag a bit?”“Why does the menu feel so stripped down compared to my Canon?”And they’re not wrong.
Coming from years of shooting with Sony cameras, both privately and professionally, I’ve grown accustomed to blisteringly fast autofocus and cutting-edge tech. The same goes for Canon and even Nikon now, with models like the Z8 setting new standards.
So why do photographers spend thousands of euros on a brand that, on paper, seems to fall behind in terms of technology and price? Why would someone drop nearly €6,000 on a camera like the Leica Q3, which doesn’t even allow interchangeable lenses?
The quick, sarcastic answer might be: Because it’s just a brand for rich snobs. 😬
But that’s obviously not the case. Leica is something else entirely, and understanding it requires a shift in perspective.
Why Leica Isn’t JUST A BRAND
Think about sports photographers. They often rely on cameras like the Sony A9 or Canon R3—low-megapixel bodies with lightning-fast autofocus. Why? Because those features are essential for their job. And the price tags reflect that: a Sony A9 III body costs around €7,000, and a Canon R3 is about €5,000. Add a top-tier lens, like Sony’s 50mm GM f/1.2 for €2,399 or Canon’s equivalent for over €3,000, and you’re easily looking at a €10,000 setup.
Now, compare that to a Leica SL3. It offers a strong autofocus system, 60 megapixels, and even 8K video capabilities. The body costs €6,800. Sure, the 50mm Summilux-SL f/1.4 lens costs €5,890—a price almost as high as the camera itself. But there’s a more affordable option: the Summicron-SL 50mm f/2 ASPH for around €2,000. Together, the setup is just over €10,000—not far off from Sony or Canon.
This is where most people misunderstand Leica. They assume the brand is grossly overpriced, but the numbers tell a different story. Yes, some Leica lenses cost as much as the camera body, but the quality and craftsmanship justify the price.
THE LEICA Q3: A MIXED BAG
Now, let’s talk about the Leica Q3 specifically. At nearly €6,000, it’s a premium-priced fixed-lens camera. While it offers incredible build quality, stunning image output, and an unmatched shooting experience, it does come with limitations. The lack of interchangeable lenses, combined with a menu system that may feel too minimalist for some, might not justify the price for every photographer.
For those who simply want to take great photos, cameras like the Fujifilm X100V or the upcoming X100 IV are excellent alternatives. Costing a fraction of the Q3, these models offer 40MP, an integrated flash, and a similarly stylish shooting experience.
THE QUESTION: IS LEICA OVERPRICED?
The answer depends on what you value. A Leica Q3 might feel expensive for what it offers, but Leica’s interchangeable-lens systems, like the SL3, stand shoulder-to-shoulder with brands like Sony or Canon in terms of price and performance.
Leica isn’t about chasing the latest tech specs—it’s about simplicity, elegance, and a focus on the art of photography. The colors are natural, the menu intuitive, and the shooting experience unparalleled. It’s a tool for photographers who value the essence of the craft over technical bells and whistles.
If you want a camera that simply lets you capture, without distractions, Leica delivers. And for those who understand its philosophy, the price becomes secondary. After all, can you really put a price on inspiration?
