Leica 35 APO-Summicron-M: When M lenses learned to focus close

Mike Evans -
Leica's new close-focus M lenses push past the old 70cm rangefinder limit, and the M EV1 — the first M without one — lets photographers use every centimeter of it.

New: Leica revives its Cold War spy lens as the Summicron-M 66 f/2

Mike Evans - 10
Leica has revived its rare Cold War-era Elcan 66mm spy lens as the limited-edition Summicron-M 66 f/2, keeping its odd handling quirks and offering the unusual focal length to enthusiasts for the first time.

Introducing Mike Chudley: From skateboarder to street photography star

Andrew Owen-Price - 3
Mike Chudley is a young British street photographer and YouTuber who has rapidly built both a large following and an impressive list of endorsements. This article both introduces Mike and illustrates why his work has made such an impact.

The Bentley Boys: Brooklands, Bentleys and a Beethoven surprise

Mike Evans - 6
Excerpt: A lens test at Brooklands turns into Rolls-Royce and Bentley Day, a Bentley Boys history lesson, and a chance meeting with Britain's number-plate expert — who also happens to edit Beethoven.

Coirón: Six years in Chile, following the lives of ageing gauchos

Jon Cheffings - 7
The book captures six years of life among aging gauchos known as Puesteros, in Chile's Magallanes region, highlighting their solitude and labour while reflecting broader social changes affecting rural life and cultural identity.

Review: Panasonic Lumix S 100mm f/2.8 Macro

Mike Evans - 9
In June, Leica launched the APO-Macro-Elmarit-SL 100mm f/2.8 lens, while Panasonic's Lumix S 100mm f/2.8 Macro, smaller and cheaper, offers an excellent alternative with impressive performance for general photography.

Not a Replica of the Leica Clas­sic: The Mand­ler 7-Element 35mm f/2 re­ima­gined

Jeffery Trilling - 4
A conversation between two photographers led to discovering Mandler, a company recreating classic Leica lenses. Mandler emphasizes their lenses are modern interpretations, offering quality at an accessible price for enthusiasts.

Viltrox Chip Review: A tiny marvel for L-Mount shooters hungry for a pancake

Keith James - 15
The minuscule Viltrox Chip is a remarkable new pancake lens for L-Mount. It is an ultracompact, sharp, autofocus, low-cost option for creating a lightweight walk-around kit, particularly for owners of Lumix S-series cameras.

The Welcome Break, the pause button, and the art of staying stationary

Jon Cheffings - 4
Oliver Bennett's photographic essay captures the dynamic patterns of everyday life at a motorway service station over a year, showcasing diverse human experiences in a single, unique location.

CELEBRATING LEICA AT 100

RECENT POSTS

Viltrox Chip Review: A tiny marvel for L-Mount shooters hungry for a pancake

Viltrox Keith James - 15
The minuscule Viltrox Chip is a remarkable new pancake lens for L-Mount. It is an ultracompact, sharp, autofocus, low-cost option for creating a lightweight walk-around kit, particularly for owners of Lumix S-series cameras.
Read more

The Welcome Break, the pause button, and the art of staying stationary

Feature Articles Jon Cheffings - 4
Oliver Bennett's photographic essay captures the dynamic patterns of everyday life at a motorway service station over a year, showcasing diverse human experiences in a single, unique location.
Read more

Fujifilm X70 Review: A forgotten compact camera

Fujifilm Mike Evans - 6
The Fujifilm X70, an acclaimed compact camera launched in 2016, was discontinued due to sensor supply issues, leaving enthusiasts wondering about its potential if developed further alongside its successful rivals.
Read more

Capturing sketches of Spain with a Leica Q3

Travel Jon Cheffings - 19
The author reflects on past trips to Spain, exploring its rich history and cultural layers in Alicante province while using minimal photographic equipment to capture the essence of the region.
Read more

Maximise your photography with adapted M-Mount lenses

Accessories Mike Evans - 14
Jim Fisher's PCMag article highlights the growing popularity of adapting vintage lenses for modern mirrorless cameras, illustrating the practicality, benefits, and continued interest in using vintage optics across various sensor formats.
Read more

Left Brain and Right Brain Photography Styles: Is there such a thing?

Feature Articles Ed Lara - 8
Ed Lara reflects on differing photographic styles, suggesting wildlife and aviation photography demand left-brain precision, while street photography embraces right-brain intuition and creativity, promoting a balanced artistic approach.
Read more

OPINION

Photo competitions: Make the most of your pictures

John Shingleton - 11
Entering competitions can be a rewarding and even lucrative pastime. Here's how to make more of your photography
Read more

Leica Q2: A professional evaluation

Kristian Dowling - 23
Kristian takes an in-depth look at Leica's immensely popular Q2 and asks whether this camera outshines the traditional rangefinder M...
Read more

Leica M4: The story of one of Leica’s most popular rangefinders

Mike Evans - 37

Mike was asked for help in connection with an article to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the Leica M4. He has put together a brief history of one of the world's favourite non-metered rangefinders.....

Read more

LATEST COMMENTS

Rick in CO on Leica 35 APO-Summicron-M: When M lenses learned to focus close
Mike Evans on Leica 35 APO-Summicron-M: When M lenses learned to focus close
Keith Walker on Leica 35 APO-Summicron-M: When M lenses learned to focus close
Mike Evans on Leica 35 APO-Summicron-M: When M lenses learned to focus close
Ed Schwartzreich on New: Leica revives its Cold War spy lens as the Summicron-M 66 f/2
Stephen Jenner on Leica 35 APO-Summicron-M: When M lenses learned to focus close
Kathy Davis on Introducing Mike Chudley: From skateboarder to street photography star
Ed Lara on Left Brain and Right Brain Photography Styles: Is there such a thing?
William Fagan on New: Leica revives its Cold War spy lens as the Summicron-M 66 f/2
William Fagan on New: Leica revives its Cold War spy lens as the Summicron-M 66 f/2
Bill Rosauer on New: Leica revives its Cold War spy lens as the Summicron-M 66 f/2
Ed Schwartzreich on New: Leica revives its Cold War spy lens as the Summicron-M 66 f/2
William Fagan on New: Leica revives its Cold War spy lens as the Summicron-M 66 f/2
Martin on New: Leica revives its Cold War spy lens as the Summicron-M 66 f/2
Martin on New: Leica revives its Cold War spy lens as the Summicron-M 66 f/2
Mike Evans on New: Leica revives its Cold War spy lens as the Summicron-M 66 f/2

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THIS TIME LAST YEAR ON MACFILOS

PHOTOGRAPHERS' GALLERY

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Panasonic Lumix L10 Review: A premium compact camera for enthusiasts

PanasonicMike Evans -
The Lumix L10 is a substantial upgrade from the LX100 II, featuring improved autofocus, sensor performance, and controls. Priced competitively, it serves as an excellent versatile compact camera for enthusiasts.

Leica SL3-P long-term review: It’s a winner for Leica

LeicaJonathan Slack -
Jono Slack reviews the SL3-P camera, an advancement in the SL family. Its improved autofocus, design, and user interface make it ideal for nature and wedding photography, accompanied by two new lenses.

Why I chose the Leica Q3 Monochrom for black-and-white photography

MonochromeOlaf Reichardt -
Choosing a camera with a dedicated monochrome sensor requires a deep commitment to black and white photography. The author describes his personal journey to the eventual purchase of a Leica Q3 Monochrom.

Lumix S1RII Review: Advanced AI autofocus and stunning image quality

PanasonicEd Lara -
Panasonic's Lumix S1RII, launched in February 2025, features a 44.3MP sensor, advanced autofocus, and improved ergonomics. It caters to hybrid shooters, balancing quality and affordability against competitors like Canon and Nikon.

FIVE YEARS AGO ON MACFILOS

Is there a difference between the Leica and Sigma 24-70mm zooms?

L-Mount Mike Evans -
In the market for an L-mount medium-range zoom? If so, either of the two new 24-70 mm f/2.8s from Sigma or Leica could fit the bill. But is the Leica worth over twice as much as the very similar Sigma?

Is the camcorder oppressing the camera?

Leica Mike Evans -
Is too much emphasis placed on video capabilities in cameras primarily used by stills photographers? Does everyone need video? Would life be simpler if we went back to basic, thoughful still creativity...

Don’t leave the auction without your LEIFA Fahrtrichtungsanzeiger

Leica Mike Evans -
You've heard of LEICA, but what about LEIFA. This improbably product from Wetzlar had a very short life. But it indicated the future for the world motor industry...

Leica CL: Demand for an upgrade remains strong

Leica Mike Evans -
Last week we were wondering if there would ever be a Leica CL2. We've had an overwhelming response from readers. They do want a CL2, and as soon as possible.