Old Camera
The eraser of time has erased people’s memory of film photography, but I enjoy using old cameras. They remind me to cherish the present, which is the best day. I take photos on the streets with my Leica IIIG, a retro mechanical camera. When I hold it up, passers-by easily recognize its vintage style and are not offended. Perhaps this old camera can remind passersby that time flies and things change, and that they should cherish what they have in front of them.
old-fashioned
My father took photography very seriously. He used a large wooden stand and camera, ensuring everything was in order. Today, mobile phone photography is excellent. Even the compact Leica M camera seems outdated. However, I still prefer using my Leica IIIG for its retro style. Although photography may no longer be considered avant-garde, I still have a passion for it and appreciate the classic Leica. My Leica IIIG camera is in perfect condition, and I can only imagine how much its previous owner cherished it.
street photography
Street photography requires a camera that is approachable.The equipment used plays a significant role in the outcome of the photographs.Passers-by react differently to various cameras, which is an essential aspect of street photography. The retro iiig style often elicits knowing smiles from passers-by and is rarely rejected.
Leica IIIG
The Leica M3 was released in 1955, followed by the IIIG in 1956. The IIIG was produced until 1960. As Leica M-mount lenses were developed, Leica screw mounts gradually withdrew from the market. The Leica L39 mount camera is a classic Leica.
The IIIG is the last Leica L39 mount camera. Its functions are very similar to those of the M3. Many people are fans of this camera, and some have even converted it to an M mount for use with Leica M mount lenses. There are even those who wish that Leica would create a digital camera based on the iiig.
The origin of M3 and iiig:
- The iiig has two observation windows, one for framing and the other for focusing. The Leica M3 combines the viewfinder and focus into one window.
- The iiig has two shutter speed dials, one for high speed and one for slow shutter. The Leica M3 combines the shutter dial and slow speed dial into one dial.
But IIIG is not inferior to M3. For many people, IIIG also has its irreplaceable features:
- Extra large magnification focusing window, making it easy to focus with a 90mm lens.
- It is ultra-light and does not feel tired when hanging around your neck or heavy in your pocket. This is the essence of Leica.
- The diopter adjustment is not available on the M camera, but it is on the iiig, which is very useful in conjunction with focusing on the macula.
90mm lens
I like to use it with the Elmar 90mm f/4 lens. The Leica M model is not as good as the iiig for focusing at 90mm.
50mm lens
I like to use the Leica iiig with the Leica summiron 50 f2 lens. They have harmonious proportions and are very consistent with the design aesthetic. This kind of camera allows you to feel some mysterious wisdom when you hold it in your hand.
