Rangefinder-Camera Reviews

A very good friend of mine is a professional photographer. His reputation for excellence is well known in the US and is spreading into international circles. He can choose from the finest photographic gear available. A few years ago I hired him for a location shoot. He showed up sporting a Leica M7 35mm. My first reaction was, "Where is your Nikon or Hasselblad? These shots need to be great." He assured me that the Leica would do the job. The film came back and the photos were fantastic. Never forgetting that the results are divided between the quality of the equipment and the skills of the photographer. I do know a thing or two about camera equipment - I studied photography. I grew up in a commercial phography studio. The Leica M7 is now on my short list of outstandting cameras in the world. If you want the best, this is the best!

The Leica M7 is truly one camera that is long overdue. Without a doubt, it is the finest - and most expensive - rangefinder camera currently in production. Much of what the Leica M7 offers is not revolutionary, but rather, a natural, evolutionary progression spanning nearly five decades since the introduction of the M3, Leica's first bayonet-mounted rangefinder camera. The shutter remains essentially the same as the one found on the M6, but it is far more accurate than its immediate predecessor; it is still a silk curtain shutter, but one that is now electronically controlled, guaranteeing accurate exposures every time. Surprisingly, it is now also quieter than the shutter for the Leica M6. Those familiar with Leicas, especially the M4 and M6, will find the M7 easy to use. However, you may have to carry additional batteries since this camera won't work without them, with the notable exception of two shutter speeds. Otherwise, I regret that this fine camera is truly too expensive for most photographers.