Leica M9

[nickn]

Looking for a small camera with a big punch (full frame) for backpacking. it seems this is my only option but over 8K for camera and 50mm 2.8....yeesh. Any other suggestions?

[RichardTaylor]

A 35mm (24x36mm "sensor") film camera. Especially a rangefinder or a rangefinder style.

The only other alternative in a digital world is one of the full frame cameras from Canon, Nikon or Sony with a prime (like a 35mm F2 or 24mm F2.8). They are not all that big.

A third alternative "or a small camera with a big punch" is to forget full frame and use a good P&S. An example would be a Canon G11. You have total control (including RAW) and at low ISO settings, and good technique, they are ok.

What will be your main subjects, scenery or wild life?

I shoot with a P&S, crop DSLR and a full frame DSLR.

.

[OsmosisStudios]

If you're backpacking, you're asking for trouble. Why do you need Full-frame?

[nickn]

I am going to be shooting a waterfall in a very remote location. Defiantly one of the most beautiful waterfalls that I have ever seen. I want to say full frame because of image size. I plan on blowing this image up into a 30" x 90" wall print for my studio. Image enlargement software can only do so much.

[OsmosisStudios]

Full-frame != larger print size. Just bigger sensor.

Frankly, I've answered your other thread: just bring your D3x and a tilt-shift lens.

[3bayjunkie]

This is the same camera I want. Unfortunately there is no alternative. The only possible alternative would be an M8, but then again its not full frame and its only 10mpx. I would just splurge on the M9 if you have the money, otherwise like Osmosis said, just bring the D3x and a lens.

[Aegea]

Originally Posted by nickn

I am going to be shooting a waterfall in a very remote location. Defiantly one of the most beautiful waterfalls that I have ever seen. I want to say full frame because of image size. I plan on blowing this image up into a 30" x 90" wall print for my studio. Image enlargement software can only do so much.

I'd find it difficult to justify $7k for one shot - as Richard Taylor said, I think I'd try a small film 35mm.

[ravncat]

Dont forget the Ricoh GXR with the A12 mount --- leica mount on the gxr...

[ssssnake529]

I had a Sigma DP1. Full sized sensor in a small package. Nice 28mm lens. Ultimately, I got rid of it because I was using it for climbing, and really needed a zoom (because when you're climbing, you usually can't move back and forth.)

If you can get by with a single 28mm prime lens, and put up with some of its quirks, you may love this camera. It certainly delivered beautiful image quality. Cost is much less than an M9, and it's much smaller and lighter too.


Some reviews here: http://www.luminous-landscape.com/re...igma-dp1.shtml

http://boxedlight.com/dp1/

[armis]

Can't you rent an M9 or a 5D2 from somewhere?