This week the BBC published a short but poignant celebration of Leica’s centenary featuring photojournalist Tom Stoddart. I was particularly pleased to see that the film, which you can find here, was compiled by my friend Phil Coomes. Aside from his day job as picture editor for the BBC website, Phil is a big Leica enthusiast and a fellow member of The Leica Society. Much to his credit he also edits the TLS Magazine and moderates the popular TLS Circle D which features monthly submissions of photographs and critiques by members. Find this month’s selection here. Phil is always looking for new members for Circle D so get in touch if you are interested.
One of the most compelling aspects of owning a Leica is that it gives automatic access to a whole new world of friends and enthusiasts. These days we call it social networking, but the Leica world is a long-standing network of like-minded enthusiasts who stay in touch, take part in regular meetings and chat on-line in places places such as the popular Leica camera forum. Over the years I have met many friends in this world and I always look forward to meeting up and going out to grab a few shots and the odd coffee or beer. I cannot think of another make of camera which instills this sort of following, companionship and sheer enthusiasm among users. See a Leica in use on the streets, especially a vintage M, and you have soon made a friend.