I’ve been working with the Leica Q2 for several years now. I have been shooting primarily in black and white. When I purchased it, I could have chosen the monochrome version but didn’t want to be limited to just black and white. For years I shot color with both Nikon and Fujifilm cameras. I would only occasionally work in black and white. In 2020 I went all in and monochrome was my primary method. After 5 years it was time to balance it out a bit. The Q2 has become my camera of choice for all of my digital work. An amazing camera with a 47mp sensor, 28mm f1.5 Summicron lens. It is fun to work with and it makes me want to make images. The added thumb grip and peak design camera strap complete the package for me. I have made some amazing images with this camera.

I have been learning to express myself through my lens, in a whole new way. This amazing tool allows me so much leeway with my images. When I shoot I use raw plus jpeg. The raw file is what I use for the final image. The jpeg is a reference, through the lens, of what the image could look like in black and white. The huge file size allows me to create the image that is in my minds eye. My art shows through with each image I create. My goal has always been to create art through images. I want to tell a broader story with each frame. Deeper meaning is the end goal. Hoping the viewer wants to linger and enjoy the nuances of what i’ve captured and presented. Now that work turns toward color. I’m not giving up black and white but just adding a new medium into the mix. I wandered through San Francisco a few weeks back and many subjects jumped out at me. Color was the best option.

Cupid’s Span, San Francisco. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cupid%27s_Span

While not evident by glance, these images tell a story, a story about me. I spent several years in this area, working on Harrison St. just under the bridge. My lunches spent enjoying this view. While it has changed, many additions, it is still a place that holds significance for me. I feel something with these images. They hold amazing and tough memories for me. Color tells this story best. The fire boat in black and white wouldn’t be the same. Red’s Java House has to be experienced as the eye sees it. The color of the bow and arrow standing out against the skyscrapers.

Glacier Point at Sunset, Yosemite National Park

The above image showed me more of what this camera was capable of. An awe inspiring view, captured at sunset with the right tool for the job. So I will continue to explore color with this amazing camera. I will learn more of its’ capabilities, along with mine. I will dream up new locations and new images that I will then share with you. I hope you enjoy this journey with me!

B&W vs. Color, Leica Q2

Highway 395!

Yosemite!