Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

By JefPrice

I’m a huge fan of the compact camera. Firstly, I think they allow the photographer to go largely unnoticed, and even when noticed to not be taken too seriously – this eases the interaction between subject and photographer. But there’s also a whole host of other reasons as to why a photographer may lean towards the compact.

Lately my personal reason for using 35mm or smaller sized compacts has been my bad back and neck pain. But even as a youth I saw their virtue. I favored my Nikon FE2 or even when necessary my EM over my larger and heavier F3 or F4, and despite liking the handling of the Leica R3 or R7 better than that of the R4, I’ll use the R4 because of it’s more compact size. I value the compact quality in a camera system nearly as much as I value the handling when it comes to my day to day use. But function must be first. With film systems, as this website often illustrates, there are a wide variety of wonderful options. But this isn’t so with digital compacts. We as photographers know that if a camera is compact but awful to work with and produces a poor image, then it’s no good. With digital compacts this seems to be often the case.

I’ve used dozens of compacts, including most of the cult favorites like the Ricoh GR’s, they all had some glaring issue I couldn’t overlook.  I’ve long wanted a digital compact I could always keep with me, in the Jeep, a coat pocket or even as a back up, that could offer me good quality results without too many sacrifices. My hope when I got my hands on the Leica D-Lux (typ 109) was that it would be a winner. But I had my doubts.

Such a digital camera was seemingly non-existent, and there was another question that had come to mind while I searched for my digital compact holy grail, was there really any need for a compact digital camera when I could do so much with my iPhone?

Panasonic vs. Leica

Before I get into this, I think it’s worth noting there is a Panasonic version of this camera called the LX100. Depending on who you ask, is the same thing just minus the little red dot. One thing is for sure, the Panasonic model is considerably less expensive. I bought the Leica version because it’s what my dealer could get, and because it came with Lightroom for free. But in almost every regard the Panasonic version is the same camera and can be had for much less.

JPEG B&W in camera preset, 24mm, macro, minimum distance, f1.7, ISO 400

Why the Leica D-Lux?

The D-Lux isn’t the most recent camera with a compact profile, with many newer options having larger sensors. The Leica D-Lux doesn’t even use it’s full almost-17mp Micro 4/3rd’s scale sensor – it only uses an area of this large sensor between 11-12+mp depending on the aspect ratio you’re shooting in (more on that later).

So to the question, why the D-Lux? Well, for a start, the D-Lux, is a true compact – it is only about the same size as one of my compact film camera of choice, the Olympus 35RC. It’s true that there are a good many other similar sized compacts in the same price range as the D-Lux – in fact many are quite a bit less – however, it’s my view that the D-Lux exceeds most, if not all other compacts in it’s class. The main reasons for me taking this stance come down to a few headline features:

The lens – which retracts neatly – covers every focal length from 24-75mm. The camera also features an option to quickly switch between them to the next prime length – 24, 28, 35, 50, 70 and 75.

It also has a built-in EVF (something the much praised Ricoh GR is lacking) and bright, crisp back screen that can be clearly seen during the day.

On top of these key features, it offers some fairly advanced function too. This includes manual focus, manual aperture control, a real shutter speed dial, exposure compensation dial (yes another real dial!), a flash that comes in the package and seems to actually work pretty well, and numerous other functions that make this a very serious compact.

But, having tested some feature loaded cameras, both film and digital, that were nothing but frustrating and produced dreadful results I know that all these features don’t mean much if the user experience and results aren’t satisfactory.

Fortunately, this isn’t the case with the Leica D-lux (typ 109). In fact, I have found the combination of features, size and quality a near perfect match to my needs.

The Matheny Rd Shrine, RAW converted to B&W in LR, 35mm, f2.8, ISO 400

Sensor and aspect ratios…

The Leica D-Lux (typ 109) has relatively low resolution compared to many comparable cameras. This means it has larger than average pixels. I have found this to aid in it capturing more detail and light than any other 11-12MP sensor I’ve found in a compact digital camera, giving raw files that have plenty of scope for adjustment in post.

A RAW photo taken in the 16:9 ratio comes out to about 4480 × 2520 in size. In theory, this should allow for large prints, but to make sure the quality translated from screen to print, I have had several large (11 x 14 or larger) prints made and they (as they should) look even better on paper than screen!

Aspect ratios

The sensor in the D-Lux, is a odd thing to try and explain. Normally your camera has a sensor of certain size with a certain resolution, but in the case of the micro 4/3rds sized sensor in the D-Lux, the camera only uses a section of the almost 17mp sensor at a time. As I understand it, some of the primary reasoning for this to keep the focal length the same across all aspect ratios. A key feature of the D-Lux, there is a slider that changes the aspect ratio right on top of the lens barrel – it gives options to shoot in 3:2, 16:9, 1:1 and 4:3 ratios (shooting 24-35mm in 16:9 is a blast).

JPEG, “Expressive” preset, 35mm, f2.8, ISO 800, 16:9 ratio
JPEG, “Dynamic Monochrome” preset, 35mm, f5.6, ISO 200, 16:9 ratio
JPEG, Cross process preset, 24mm, f1.7, Macro

Optics

The D-Lux features the Leica DC Vario-Summilux 24-75mm (35mm eq), f1.7-2.8 ASPH lens, the same lens is used on the Panasonic version. And what a lens it is! It’s sharp and suffers from minimal distortions and aberrations.

Below is an image taken in RAW format, without any post sharpening, and a crop to show detail captured by the incredible glass joined with the unique sensor.

The Rundown

Rather than go into great detail about each and every feature and function of the camera, here is a little bullet point synopsis with some tech and geek data:

Lens

• Fast and very sharp Vario-Summilux 24-75mm f/1.7 lens. Focus is clear and sharp across all focal lengths and clean at the edges.

• Free zoom length adjustment from 24-75mm or stepping in prime lengths at 24-28-35-50-70 and 75mm lengths. Lens moves a little slow through the focal lengths, but it’s still faster then changing glass and digging through 6 lenses in your bag.

EVF

• Fantastic adjustable EVF which it’s bright, clear and sharp as a tack. You can also turn on the B&W EVF function which changes all displays to B&W.  According to Leica, this is supposed to allow you to get better results when focussing manually. I personally didn’t notice any increased ease in focusing or operation while shooting in BW.

Macro

• Macro focussing min distance of about 2 inches, auto focussing min range of 4-5 inches. Auto focus has a hard time sometimes getting it right when you’re close sometimes and you’ll have to go manual to get really close. You also lose min distance as you zoom in.

Flash

• There is an included accesory flash – with effective tested range of around 8-10 feet max without fill loss. The flash metering is fantastic. 9/10 shots were right where they should be. Downside to using the flash is it doesn’t work in silent mode, meaning you have to make a little more noise and that annoying little AF light starts blinking.

Silent mode

• Silent mode which mutes everything, including the silly sounds and the little focus light. Makes the camera much more discreet.

Controls

• Fully manual controls including: focus and aperture control on the lens, and exposure comp and shutter speed dials right by the shutter release.

• Exposure compensation dial and exposure preview in the EVF and on the display. Exposure preview slows down the refresh rate on the EVF, but you can turn this feature off all together or just have the preview display when you slightly tap the shutter release.

• Controls are mostly kept to a minimum and except for the few on the back I bumped now and then because the camera is so compact, they’re all placed well. They include a special record button for video, a EVF control, a control ring on the back with four clickable built in buttons, and the standard buttons on the back for trash, playback etc.

• Two sliding switches on the lens barrel, one for changing the aspect ratio and one for switch between near and far AF zones (only necessary for AF macro shooting) and one for MF.

• Adjustable buttons: You can change the function and controls of almost every dial, knob and ring on the camera to best shoot the way you use a camera and functions you’ll use the most. You can even change the function on the zoom control and focus and aperture rings.

• You can control nearly every feature of the camera while shooting and without having to go through the menu. All controls are easy to learn and get a feel for. It feels much like a camera should feel.

Handling & Size

• Thumb pad for better handling. Unlike the Panasonic variant there isn’t a built-in grip. Personal I like as it keeps the size and weight down, but it does make the rubber thumb grip more necessary as this camera small size and smooth finish can be harder to hang to.

• Solid construction, it’s milled out of a single block of aluminium and feels incredibly well built.

• Nothing about the D-Lux feels cheap or like a toy.

• The lens folds down inside the small about 2 inch external lens barrel, making it small enough for a jacket or large pants pocket.

Power

• Great battery life. I took around 700 photos before it dropped into the red. This was without the flash and I turned features little the AF lamp off. You have a couple options to change power consumption settings, including the ability to choose power saving over performance, but even choosing performance I got great results with the battery life. Much better then say, a X-Pro 1, X-E2, but not as good as an X-Pro 2 or SL.

• Decent power up time at just under 2 secs.

Files

• JPEGs are clean and perform very well and are nearly lossless right up to ISO 800. They don’t handle editing that well, but that’s normal.

• RAW files are fantastic and working on them produced good results.

• Both RAW and JPEG files can be recorded side by side without a notable loss in performance.

• Multiples presets for JPEGs including modes like Toy, Dynamic B&W, B&W, Sepia etc.  Some of these are quite nice, though I wasn’t impressed by most of them. The Dynamic B&W produced some pretty good results and you can shoot these in JPEG while still recording the RAW file. It’s very easy to flip between these without even bringing down the camera from your eye.

Video

• Shoots 4k video, which from what little I played with it, was nice and very clear. Comparing it to the DJI P4 drone footage, it looked very good and much the same. Sound pick up is also decent, even with some background noise and you can attach the correct external mic if you wish.

Roseville Prison, JPEG, Dynamic Monochrome, 28mm, f1.7, ISO 800

Is a digital compact even necessary or relevant anymore?

In this age of camera-phones and increasingly capable (and compact!) mirrorless cameras, some might say that it’s hard to come up with a reason why a digital compact is needed, maybe even harder to justify a high end one such as the Leica D-Lux (typ 109). With billboards 3-6 stories tall of iPhone photography, what could a digital compact offer that my iPhone can’t? This is the question I found myself asking while testing the Leica D-lux (typ 109).

So, are the images out of the D-Lux better then the ones out of the iPhone? Yes. Without a doubt. This is due in large part just to the size of the sensor. No matter how clear and sharp those camera-phone taken photos may be on that HD screen in the palm of your hand, they’re still being recorded on a comparatively tiny sensor which is very limiting on the potential quality of the image, and that’s before we have even thought about the lack of depth of field control a camera phone provides.

For me, an iPhone, Android or whatever, is never going to compare to a real camera in my hands. Is the D-Lux perfect? No. Honestly, it is starting to show it’s age in some ways, but it’s combination of size and handling, combined with its feature set and quality do give it niche advantages that a a camera phone just can’t touch

If you’re the type of person taking the time to read this, then chances are you see the benefits of having a great compact in your pocket. Especially one that has specs like the Leica D-Lux. Shooting a camera like this is simply a lot more fun than shooting with my phone.

JPEG, Dynamic Monochrome
24mm at f1.7
 
JPEG, Toy camera preset

Final thoughts…

I’ve shot my Leica D-Lux (typ 109) mostly in 24mm, 35mm and 75mm and in the aspect ratio 16:9. I have been consistently very impressed with the camera as a fantastic back up or daily carry. It’s the first digital compact with a variable zoom lens I’ve ever used and been nearly completely happy with.

I’ve even shot a few gigs with it as my only camera, including one that required constant flash use and much to my surprise the camera did very well. I would even go so far as to say if I had to do so, I could shoot the bulk of a wedding with this little fella. I’ve shot the D-Lux in rainstorms, snowstorms, summer heat and on a tripod connected to my phone to snatch shots of birds landing on a fence, in every instance, it performed well.

So would I recommend this camera? Yes. I absolutely would. If you’re looking for a versatile backup or compact digital camera this is an absolutely wonderful option. On the surface, it’s dated, at only 12 effective MP and it’s not the newest tool in the shed, but you can get a decent deal on one in very good shape used and it’s hard to find anything this small that’s also this good. Very often compact size means compromise, which isn’t the case here.

Ultimately, I would say that the Leica D-Lux (typ 109) either meets your needs or it doesn’t. But if it doesn’t, it isn’t because the camera doesn’t deliver.

Thanks for reading! Remember you can hit me up on Twitter or in the comments below if you have any questions

– Jef

Note: I’ve shown the D-Lux in the top image with a focus ring from TAAB, as well as their leather wrist strap. I also added an after market filter thread lens hood. The flash pictured is the included Leica brand flash. – Jef

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About The Author

By JefPrice
Former this & that. Exploring & Photographing since I was 11. Founder of FieldPhotographer.org - Rambling about comics at: PullWorthy.com
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Comments

LOCKED AWAY: THE ROSEVILLE PRISON on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 23/09/2019

[…] Shooting notes: I used the Leica D-Lux for these images, both with and without the included flash unit. The small flash worked quite well, with a increased range in the dark prison halls over the normal 4-6 ft range. I was however pushing the limits of the usable ISO range; 400-3200 ISO. The clarity, sharpness, and contrast produced by the type 109’s lens and sensor was excellent. Read my full review on 35MMC HERE. […]
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victor on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 12/04/2019

I also love the small Dlux6 and I would like to know Jeff's opinion about the NEW Leica Dlux7. I hope that Jeff will find time for us...still waiting.
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KL Agustin on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 17/02/2019

I really really want and value your opinion on this, i hope that you can reply to this question. If you were to buy now and choose between an Leica D Lux Typ 109 versus the most recent D Lux 7, what would you prefer? Thank you in advance. I'm a beginner to cameras but our family has been travelling and i wanted to capture better photos so im thinking about buying but the Leica store guy advised I buy Typ 109 because he thinks the upgrade is not worth the price. I wanted to hear from someone who really understands camera so please please i hope to hear your thoughts on this.
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Dezi C. on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 01/01/2019

I love my D-Lux !!!! Was using a Sony RX100 II and made the switch, no regrets! Was also using a Nikon Coolpix. The L-D is by far the best for me! Feels good in the hands when shooting it!
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Des McSweeney on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 29/11/2018

so, the D-Lux 7 is out now and apart from expected tech improvements it is drop dead gorgeous. I might just trade my x100f. If you post a review do please tell us.
All the best
Des
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Eric N on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 03/11/2018

Thanks for this review! You mention attaching an external mic — how does that work?
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JefPrice replied:

Comment posted: 03/11/2018

Eric - There's a jack on the camera. The only mic I mounted slid into the hotshot mount on top and plugged in. I did not test audio so I'm not sure about capture quality.

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Matt Byrne on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 02/11/2018

Something about having a decent 'compact' for when lumping a DSLR is inconvenient
will always appeal to me. For many years my Canon G10 provided this role. This summer I've branched out with an X100F and seeing it mentioned in the comments says a lot about how many people seemingly like a smaller camera that can hold its own. I've just replaced my G10 with a Sony RX100iii with the 24-70 f1.8-2.8 and reading this review of the Leica highlights a few similar things in regards to stepped focal lengths and manual control of focus if need be. It takes a decent enough image to sit in my work bag for impromptu shots out on the road and means I don't have to risk the Fuji getting wear - boy does that feel like a camera to get precious about. I adore it.
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JefPrice replied:

Comment posted: 02/11/2018

Same! I'm a huge fan of the X100F.

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Emanuelly on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 13/08/2018

Trataremos deste temporada da vida da menino!
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Steven on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 12/05/2018

Hi Jef. Great article. I'm a bit late, but please tell me what other like 'newer' small high quality reasonably priced and flexible specs you'd recommend? If it wasn't the LX100, that is. It's getting a bit old and I was interested in something similar but newer. Thanks heaps.
Steven
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JefPrice replied:

Comment posted: 12/05/2018

Steven - Leica is supposed to release a new version of this little guy in 2019, so I would look at that. Most of the great compacts I've used have fixed focal lengths. Such as the little Sony Rx1r (I think I have that numbering right, Sonys mix me up!) with the 35.ƒ2 fixed lens, the Leica Q - which is a 28/ƒ1.7 )a little wide for me), or the Fuji X100F - 35/ƒ2 but a slightly dated lens, these are all wonderful cameras for what they are. The Fuji is my favorite by far and it's what I use in place of the 109. BUT there are lots of rumors going around right now concerning 2019 and the release of new compacts, so maybe see what the new year has for us! I'll be talking a little more about some compacts I've played with and what's out there on my own site over Christmas. (FieldPhotographer.org) but right now I have my eyes on the 109's replacement. There aren't too many in this class that preform this well and give such great results. Narrows the options for us quite a bit! - Jef

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Walter Gustafson on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 23/04/2018

I'd like to see more pics from this d-lux. Thanks for the article.
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Peter Boorman on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 05/04/2018

I have a D-Lux 6, the typ 109's predecessor. I originally got it as a pocketable zoom compact for family parties and other events when wanting something small and unobtrusive, with a bit more versatility than my Ricoh GR (which I also love), mattered more than outright quality. But I've increasingly found myself using it for more 'serious' work as well, because it's so good for something so small and discreet - though it's not a low light monster.
.
The typ 109 is a very enticing thought with that bigger sensor and a few more external controls - though I can't really see myself finding the money for what to me would be only a relatively small upgrade.
.
I like the multi-format sensor concept: it makes a huge amount of sense and, having experienced it on an earlier (Panasonic) model in the line that I advised a friend on, it was one of the attractions for me. The idea that the angle of view for a given focal length is kept consistent across other aspect ratios (except, sadly, 1:1) relates to the diagonal angle of view. That means that the horizontal angle of view at the 24mm (equivalent) setting on 16:9 is roughly the same as the horizontal angle of view of a 21mm (equivalent). 21mm is a focal length I really like (my Ricoh GR21 really sold me on it) and I find that that 24mm/16:9 really 'works' for me.
.
The discreet all black livery, better warranty, free Lightroom, and seemingly nicer jpegs with the Leica version were part of why I went for that over the Panny. The other reason was I actually found the small square buttons on the Leica felt better to my hands than the tiny, round, silvery ones on the Panny - a minor point, maybe, but with this sort of machine, handling is very important.
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JefPrice replied:

Comment posted: 05/04/2018

Peter - Agreed! And some great points! These are also the reasons I choose the Leica, there is also that pesky, but probably untrue, rumor that the Leica glass is actually better. Although I don't necessarily believe this and disregard this as a Leica fanboy spreading rumors... I have seen both versions side by side and the coatings were different. The Pano looked more green than the Leica. But seeing as how coating are updated from time to time, this very likely means nothing. I very well may find myself buying the new version of this just announced. It's smaller than my X100F, which is what replaced it as my daily pocket camera. And I agree that handling is very important. Even more so in something this small.

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AWHY on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 06/02/2018

Very nice review. I shared the feeling as the 109 fans. Btw, what size of TAAB focus ring are you using? Mini or standard which I am going to order on for myself.
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JefPrice replied:

Comment posted: 06/02/2018

AWHY - I had a Mini on it, although it was fairly tight and I think the Standard size would've worked. But I was afraid it would be loose. Sorry I'm not more help!

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Ted McDonnell on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 23/10/2017

I use high end Nikons and Leicas. But I grabbed one of these for an assignment I had and it more than exceeded the job. This camera be it a Leica or Panasonic is a darn good little camera and to a point can do anything my $8000-$10,000 cameras can do. People have confused the shots with my more expensive Leicas. It lacks a bit in the noise area above 1600iso, but its a little workhorse I constantly use in reportage work when subtly matters. Difference between getting knifed or my head kicked in on at least one occasion. Its time Leica went the next step with this camera with an upgrade. As someone who makes his living as a photojournalist I love it!
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JefPrice replied:

Comment posted: 23/10/2017

I agree Ted! I shot the SL since it's release, and now shoot the D800 and M10, and I absolutely would still work with this one.... If I didn't have to sell it for the M10 haha It's a fantastic camera and when they update it's all but guaranteed I'll be joining you in buying one! Thanks for your comment Ted!

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Ella on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 03/10/2017

Hello,

GREAT revive. I am thinking of buying this camera to replace my old Canon 450D, I am looking for something smaller. Do you think it is possible to use the Leica D-Lux in a manual mode? The thing I like is to be able to push the settings manually. Thanks in advance. x
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JefPrice replied:

Comment posted: 03/10/2017

I shot it a lot in full manual Ella! It has full manual controls of F-Stops, Shutter speeds, even compensation and focus! It's getting dated but you can find the Panasonic version for a good price on eBay or the like!

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Manu on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 22/09/2017

Thanks a lot for that review Jef. I'm working as a portrait and wedding photographer and I was actually thinking about getting the D-Lux in my bag and selling my good old Canon 5D (the original one)...I've already a 7D grip, it's really heavy and i'm starting to have pain in the wrist and elbow after an entire day of reportage wedding photography...I just hope I'm making the good choice...
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JefPrice replied:

Comment posted: 22/09/2017

I would say give it a rent or a go first, it's not a Full Frame DSLR replacement by any means, but you may find it works for you!

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Keith Trumbo on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 22/09/2017

Jef, Had the camera almost 2 years but only just discovered your great honest review. Like the idea of the Focus Ring acccessory.
Can you tell me which size of the 3 TAAB Focus Rings did you order? Thank you.
Regards, Keith Trumbo
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JefPrice replied:

Comment posted: 22/09/2017

Great question Keith lol now if I can only remember.... I think it was the mini, although the small may fit. If you use the link up there and check out Tab they give you some instructions on making sure everything fits, and if you do happen to get the wrong size, I believe they'll swap you out! I found it very helpful since the camera is so small.

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TK on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 26/04/2017

Jeff: Got some terrific - indeed stunning - Fuji X100F pics from the aviation museum in Virginia Beach. I don't do Twitter or Facebook, you have my email, send me yours and I'll upload.
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JefPrice replied:

Comment posted: 26/04/2017

Thanks TK! Will do!

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TK on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 09/04/2017

Good review, thanks. Be mindful that woe is you when/if pesky rain drops get onto the lens barrel assembly. As the lens retracts, the moisture will do nasty work and your lens extension startup will either slow down dramatically or quit altogether. My warranty had run out, so I gave up on the Leica and replaced it with a significantly cheaper Silver/Brown LX100 version...and I never take it when it might trap moisture in the lens barrel assembly.
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JefPrice replied:

Comment posted: 09/04/2017

Interesting, so you had this happen TK? I've used mine quite a lot in rain and snow, never had an issue. In fact that was something else that impressed me about it. It is supposed to be weather protected against such damage to a degree.

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JefPrice replied:

Comment posted: 09/04/2017

I actually keep a shop rag in my camera bag, just for this! I wipe the rain, snow, whatever down and off the camera as I work.

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TK replied:

Comment posted: 09/04/2017

Unfortunately, Yes. Must have been the wrong circumstance at the wrong time - and may have included ocean, read salty, mist. Re picture quality, I manually pulled the 109 lens out about a monthr ago and did comparison pics with the LX. The only difference I see is Leica using a different (and slightly better) picture processing algorithm. There seems to be less aggressive noise suppression and more subtle and pleasing colors. I'll weigh in on the Fuji debate as well: To the chagrin of my wife, I couldn't resist and recently added a X100F to my collection. It is so reminiscent of the fabulous Leica F series in looks! It is an excellent camera, indeed. But surprisingly, so far for me close-ups of flowers, etc., are not as good as the 109/LX output! I will experiment further. Also, later this week I will go to an indoor and outdoor military aviation museum and really run the Fuji through its paces. Best, Ted

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bambi replied:

Comment posted: 09/04/2017

I have the Fuji X100T and it's an amazing camera with great focusing and quality. I will be going to Iceland end of 3rd quarter this year and having a telephoto camera would be great. Do you think this Typ 109 is great for nature/outdoor photos?

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JefPrice replied:

Comment posted: 09/04/2017

Oh man that's rough! I dropped mine recently, do to some shakiness I have from a injury, and the screen cracked right down the middle! I've banged this camera around a lot, no damage, drop it a foot and the screen is busted! lol just bad luck I suppose! I have to agree on the X100 and macro flowers etc, the new Fuji X-Trans sensor in the new X100 I'm told does better though. I know the X-Pro 2/T2 does a much better job with wildlife and nature than the X-Trans 1 sensor did. I'm not sure what the changes were between the X100t and X-E2, I think it's the same sensor so it must be the glass, but the X-E2 does very well on wildlife. Hit me up on Twitter with those experiments TK! @JefPrice

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JefPrice replied:

Comment posted: 09/04/2017

Hey, that's a great question! I have used it in such a manner. Having 24-75mm with decent macro ability and in a decently fast lens, does make it suitable for nature and outdoors use. I found it very adapt in a street setting, but I also was able to set it up on a tripod and remotely shoot wildlife the same way you can a Fuji. My biggest concern would be the sensor size, at only 12 MP in a Micro 4/3rds sensor, it is going to have some limits by todays standards and it isn't really a super zoom by any standards. that said, I'm really happy with my results from it, and if I have to carrying just one camera that can do everything, the Pano or Leica version of this camera, would be a serious contender. TK brought out an interesting point, in that his had weather sealing issues. So that may be a concern as well. I'll tell you what I would probably do, I would probably go with a Fuji X-E2, and 18-135 zoom, that along with an extra battery or two would probably be a better option for me. While the 109 is a great option and would do the job for you in the 24mm-75mm range, the Fuji X-E2 is a 16 MP APSC sensor, with better JPEG files and more range of use, add to that the 18-135mm lens is weather tight and can handle snow well, you have a better option there. I recently bought my Mother the X-E2 and 18-135mm combo and it cost me about $1050 USD. Even the 18-55mm "kit" lens, which is the best kit lens ever made I think, and with either of these two options you will pay around the same used or even less as you would the D-Lux new. I just did a quick search for you on eBay and found a Fuji X-E2 with 18-55mm for $650 and another NIB for $850! I'll be honest, that's hard to beat! And you already know your way around the Fuji. The 18-55 is really your 28-80mm, and the 18-135mm is your 28-200mm. Both are great lenses and either one with do a great job for you. You'll just lose a tiny bit of speed and a little wide angle (24mm vs 28mm) from the Leica, but what you'll gain will be worth it I think! Be sure to share your Iceland adventure with me on Twitter (@JefPrice) Bambi! Hope this helps!

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Terry C on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 08/04/2017

Sounds like a great camera. I am a fan of good compacts, but this and the Panasonic version are outside my budget. If I don't want to cart around my Pentax DSLR, my Fuji F550EXR is always with me. If it had a viewfinder, it would be close to perfect for me.
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JefPrice replied:

Comment posted: 08/04/2017

Hey Terry! It's worth a rental if you think it may be a good fit, there are some rental outfits that let you pay as you go. BUT IMO if you really think it may be a good fit, buying good used one is best. I've seen them selling for as little as $400 used on sites like eBay. The Pano one even less! But honestly, I love the Fuji's! They're some of the best cameras on the market today! If I ever did it over again, I would probably buy a Fuji X-100 something, I love the JPEGs they produce.

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JefPrice replied:

Comment posted: 08/04/2017

Hey Terry! You should be able to find a used Panasonic fairly cheap! Check eBay or call around to a few Pana dealers, they don't move fast as they're a few years old now and so most often they sell under retail used. Ash least in my market. I hear ya! I just had both hips replaced and have had spine surgery AND have a bad back, I don' carry more than 1-2 bodies each with one lens. And most days only carry 1/1. That's the a reason I bought this camera, I wanted a EDC!

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Steve on Leica D-Lux (typ 109) Review – serious digital compact? – Jef Price

Comment posted: 08/04/2017

Thanks for the review. I own the Lumix version of this camera, and have been very happy with it. Unlike a lot of compacts in the same genre, the 109/LX100 has a real dial with shutter speeds and a ring for aperture. It is a compact made for photographers. Despite its age, it still holds its own against more recent offerings of Lumix and others in the same category.
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JefPrice replied:

Comment posted: 08/04/2017

Thanks Steve! It's a very enjoyable shooting experience for sure! I have a story on the way at FieldPhotographer.com where I used this little guy the whole day. I was very. surprised how effective it was! Thanks for reading buddy!

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JefPrice replied:

Comment posted: 08/04/2017

I agree Steve! And until you get into the high ISO's it really holds up. An amazing little shooter!

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