Why the Leica M10 and Leica Q Remain My Go-To Cameras

As a professional photographer who has spent years capturing moments across Venice, Budapest, and beyond, my camera choices are driven by a mix of practicality, artistic preference, and an emotional connection to the tools I use. While I’ve worked with a variety of camera systems, the Leica M10 and Leica Q remain my go-to cameras for a few compelling reasons.

The Leica Look: Unmistakable and Timeless

One of the defining characteristics of Leica cameras is how they render images. The files produced by the M10 and Q have a certain depth, micro-contrast, and tonal richness that I find unique. There’s something about how light transitions through a Leica lens that gives images an almost three-dimensional quality. The color science and monochrome conversions straight out of the camera feel natural and organic, reducing the need for heavy post-processing.

File Size: Large Enough, Yet Manageable

Another key reason I keep returning to these two cameras is the balance they strike between resolution and file size. The M10’s 24MP sensor and the Q’s 24MP full-frame sensor produce beautifully detailed images without overwhelming storage or workflow. In an era where some cameras generate 50MP+ files that can slow down processing, Leica has maintained a sweet spot—offering professional-grade resolution while keeping the workflow efficient.

The Leica M10: A Modern Classic

The Leica M10 epitomizes what a digital rangefinder should be—slim, tactile, and built for a pure photographic experience. Its manual controls, compact form, and optical rangefinder force you to slow down and truly engage with composition and light. The M10 feels like an extension of my vision rather than just a tool, making it ideal for street photography and documentary work.

The Leica Q: Compact, Yet Powerful

While I love the M10 for its manual focus precision, the Leica Q brings a different kind of versatility to my work. With its 28mm f/1.7 Summilux lens, the Q is perfect for travel, street, and environmental portraiture. Autofocus is a welcome addition when speed is crucial, yet the Q still retains the unmistakable Leica DNA in terms of image quality and handling.

Some might point out that the original Leica Q lacks weather sealing (compared to the Q2), but in my experience, this has never been a limiting factor. I’ve taken it through rain, snow, and the misty canals of Venice without concern. As long as you handle it with care, the Q performs in all conditions.

A Perfect Pair

Together, the M10 and Q cover almost all my needs—the M10 for precise, deliberate shooting with interchangeable lenses, and the Q for fast, travel-friendly photography. These cameras have allowed me to focus on what matters most: capturing compelling stories without technological distractions.

In a market flooded with ever-advancing specs, Leica continues to prioritize the essence of photography—craftsmanship, simplicity, and that unmistakable look. 

That’s why the Leica M10 and Leica Q remain irreplaceable in my kit.

Are you a Leica user? Have you experienced the Leica look firsthand? Let me know in the comments!