asiafish Loc: Bakersfield, CA

After many years of dreaming (and drooling), I've finally purchased a Leica 50mm f/0.95 Noctilux.

Here are a few of my very early images with it (this thing is very challenging). At f/0.95 the biggest challenge is accurate focus, and whether one uses a live view camera like a Leica SL or Sony A7x, or the coupled rangefinder as I do, getting accurate focus exactly where you want it is essential, and very difficult. At minimum focusing distance (1 meter) depth of field is perhaps a centimeter or two at most, and just breathing can be the difference between nailing focus on a model's eye or missing it.

Here are a few samples, all shot wide-open at f/0.95 on the Leica M-D 262 (no live view, not even a rear LCD to confirm focus, just the optical rangefinder).

L1001494 by Andrew F, on Flickr

L1001492 by Andrew F, on Flickr

L1001435 by Andrew F, on Flickr

L1001408 by Andrew F, on Flickr

L1001523 by Andrew F, on Flickr

L1001505 by Andrew F, on Flickr

L1001510 by Andrew F, on Flickr

DaveyDitzer Loc: Western PA

I was interested enough to look it up. B&H $10,650 - Holy Mackeral!

asiafish Loc: Bakersfield, CA

I bought it used for quite a bit less, but still had to sell off my Canon 5D3 and 50/1.2L to help pay for it.

G Brown Loc: Sunny Bognor Regis West Sussex UK

Love #1,#3, and #7
I once bought a house for £10,000....! yes I know $$$are less... But that is some hobby you've got.

Sincerely hope you are having fun

asiafish Loc: Bakersfield, CA

My day job is extremely stressful, so yes, I am having a lot of fun and am very fortunate that I can afford it.

ebbote Loc: Hockley, Texas

Very fine pictures.

asiafish Loc: Bakersfield, CA

Thank you.

sailorsmom Loc: Souderton, PA

Looks like you're having a lot of fun with it, asiafish! These photos are good!

asiafish Loc: Bakersfield, CA

Thank you, and yes, I am having a ball.