In Sardinia with the Q3

LFI: The Q3’s monitor is anchored to tilt up and down, and the monitor and viewfinder resolve the image more finely than its predecessor. How do you rate both?
Tomeu Coll: I didn’t have the chance to use the predecessor, but I was impressed by the quality of the viewfinder. At first, I thought it was a telemeter like in the M system, but I also knew it wasn’t; yet, even now I still wonder how it’s possible to have a real viewfinder in the Q3. Impressive for sure. About the monitor, well, I’m an old fashioned photographer, so I always prefer looking through the viewfinder. However, knowing that I have that extra option, makes me feel more confident with the camera under any circumstances. And honestly, it allows me to create some wonderful perspectives, which I wouldn’t normally manage without hurting my knees.

The Summilux 28 f/1.7 Asph is fixed on the Q, but with the new 60MP sensor, a digital zoom of 90mm is now possible. Do you use this increased potential?
I used many of the different options accorded to this unbelievable sensor. What I like the most in particular is how versatile this lens is; and, despite being a digital zoom, it seems optical in terms of quality. Honestly, the results go beyond my expectations and, together with the M11, it’s the best digital camera I’ve ever tested. There will be an era before and after the Q3. Every shot counts: that’s the truth of working with this camera.

After working with the Q3, how strong is your desire for Leica’s new Q?
As a M system user and lover, I wasn’t sure about going to some automatisms; but after the first days and after understanding the Q system’s work fluidity, I now feel like something stayed with me; so I have to admit that it has become a “must” for my equipment. This camera will change the way many photographers – whether lovers or professionals – deal with photography, and, as a consequence, with reality; because what you see after taking a photograph with the Q3, it as real as reality.