M9

April 20, 2014

Evolution not Revolution
In 2009, the M8 and the M8.2 were both replaced by the new Leica M9, taking digital M photography to a new level.

While clearly a logical progression of its predecessors, the M9 still managed to surprise – most significantly with a full-frame sensor, making it the smallest system camera of its time to offer small format photography.

The 18 million pixel sensor enabled M9 owners to utilise all existing M lenses. In essence, the M9 simply does everything that little bit better than its predecessor. At the same time, it represents a very gentle evolution of the M series – and is certainly a long way from initiating the radical revolution that many Leica enthusiasts had anticipated (some eagerly, others with apprehension).

By offering neither Live View, Autofocus, or any changes to its rangefinder, the M9 remains faithful to the traditional M character. It also retains the classic look of the M series despite housing new technology. Like with the M8, the camera's front body suggests little of the M9's digital inner workings – bringing a touch of nostalgia to modern M photography.
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M9