Wow... That was a long one 😅 Let me know what you think of the video. Also if you wanna test drive Capture One, visit the link here: captureone.co/GBalanApril23

Adding digital to my film workflow. Been on YT for days watching reviews. It’s really rare to see a digital camera review by a photographer who can actually take great pictures. It’s a sight for sore eyes. Thank you!!!

Man, this camera has saved my ass on set so many times when my Red wouldn’t even start. Hands down one of the best cameras I’ve used.

Excellent video as always. I switched to the Sl2-s from a Canon R5 and I'm upset with myself that I didn't do it years ago.

💯 I am going all in on the Leica ecosystem after years of shooting with my M8, Sony, Canon and Minolta, and in the first 24 hours - my SL2-S has rivaled my M8 in ways that I thought wouldn't happen, and gives me goosebumps in the qualities that I demand in my results. Truly an amazing rig! #GajanBalan #Leica #LeicaSL2S #photographer #BeSomebody

Thanks for putting this one together. This is long been a camera that I’ve had questions about, and been torn a number of times when considering my options for adding a new tool for my projects. The image quality and capacities of what we might think of as “vintage” sensors can still bring a lot to the table (despite frequently being only a few years old) - and sometimes even unique looks, feel and shooting experiences that we’ve forgotten in the rush for what’s next. I know that you’re deliberately focusing on quality vs quantity in your videos now Gajan. Work like this shows just how much that effort is paying off. Keep up the great work!

Picked up a SL2-S with the 50mm f/2 ASPH and have been blown away by the results. The video autofocus isn’t as bad as many people have said (where they say it’s un-usable). Been using it on a few of my gigs for both photo and some quick social media video and lately, have been preferring it over my R6 Mark 2. Great video as always Gajan

I Love your channel. You are a great presenter and dive more deeply into the real issues about photography and gear than 99.9 % of people on KZfaq. Thank you!

Love my SL2-s, the EVF is amazing and I love the handling and simplicity of the menus. I shoot with the Sigma 35mm F2 and the AF is fast. RAW video is beautiful too.

I totally get you on the "old sensor" thing. I've owned a GFX50R, then the GFX100S, but recently downsized to a X-H2 to free up some cash for property purchase. (I'm not a working photographer, just a hobby). The megapixel count on the new X-H2 may well be in the same ballpark as the GFX50R, but the "old" GFX sensor is still better. I currently intend to return to GFX next year. But I must admit, the Leica SL appeals. Probably would get Leica lens for prime 85mm (my main focal length), and use Sigma L mount for the 35-50 range.

Great Video, can’t agree more with your comments. Most people do not understand Leica, those who do are in the minority. If you can accept the limitations, the benefits are endless. Leica Lens are really Cinema Lens built for 35mm, the Sensor is built with an Arriflex ethos (Dynamic Range), Who else builds a Camera like this! Keep Well & Stay Safe 👍🇬🇧

I just clicked this video to watch reviews about the camera. Ended up discovering a man that knows what he is talking about and not another “creator” that is pretty much like a billboard for their sponsors. Great review! You get a sub!

I love my SL2s… it has replaced my canon R6 for what I do. I’m confident the new SL3 will have Phase detection AF…. But as for the version 2, the AF for normal photography is perfectly fine… but if shooting sports for a news wire? Then maybe stick with something else. As for the sensor, it renders like magic… beautiful Leica look and feel… accurate colours more than anything else I’ve used. I also compared the sensor with my canon R3 and the SL2s (both around 24mp) and the SL2s had a clear advantage especially at 1600 iso and up. I was surprised. Talking price, gojan you said it well. That said, I managed to buy mine with the Leica loyalty program last year and I ended up paying the same price as a Sony A7R5. Not apple to apples but point being there are other cameras out there that are expensive and if you shop around or look at the preowned section at some shops you can get a nice Leica in the ballpark of other brands. I also tried some of the newest sigma ART L-mount DG DN lenses and they performed surprisingly well especially for the price.

I have this camera and you’re spot on with the colors and capture one. The best I’ve ever used and I’ve used a lot of stuff.

The SL2S is my favorite camera I've never owned. Every time I go into a store with demo unit I am playing with it so much. The main thing for me is it's gorgeous large EVF. Great video Gajan!

I've been shooting professionally for around 15 years now and my love of the art has all but died. I researched which cameras invoke that original feeling that we all had when starting - it seems Leica comes out on top. I'm not a RF camera lover (well not yet, anyway) but this looks like my answer. I have one on loan for 5 days and I'm super impressed so far. GREAT Video! 👍👍 🍎🍎

I just bought the SL2-S, phenomenal camera. And I honestly think the autofocus is more than enough for me. I like to use manual focus 50% of the time. It’s a joy to use.

Since I switched to the Leica SL2S I regained that passion I used to have when I was shooting with a Hasselblad & film.Love the feel, design, colour science & everything you mentioned. It’s a camera that makes you want to pick up & capture images.

🇧🇬 The whole video review seemed like a documentary! Gajan, I don't know what percentage is Leica and what percentage your sklls but your photos are stunning! They evoke feelings which makes them special. As I am a beginner and starting my KZfaq channel - my first Full Frame camera is the Panasonic Lumix S5 Mark I I will probably be getting the Panasonic Lumix S5 Mark II X as I want a 2 camera setup. Leica is a dream camera I want to buy one day. Either the Q or SL (current number) S Camera with the amazing Leica Build Quality, User Experience, Optical Mastery and Panasonic Video and Phase Detect Auto Focus sounds great! Boyan from Bulgaria

Adding to my comment earlier - the video in this is also unreal. I have an M11 I pair with a 24 and 50 summilux and while I love the joy a still camera brings to my creative life - this or even the regular SL/SL2 look like a fun addition to that life. Appreciate the energy put into these! I don’t make my own KZfaq content but hot damn seems like a lot of work. Appreciate it. Church x Streets vol2 will be exciting to watch

Great insight as always. I’m very surprised how amazing the image/video quality of this camera. The minimalistic and purposeful design is phenomenal, Leica always delivers in this department. I’m contemplating on getting one but I’ll wait for the SL3 for the price to drop :)

A long video like you said but let me tell you,, this was so engaging that it almost left me wanting more. This was the thorough examination of not only the camera but the lens system and the entire shooting experience that I've been wanting to know about. I've circled this camera for over a year (like I did the CL that I never bought) and since I'm at least a light-year away from a Leica dealer, I needed a deep dive into what it's like to use this camera everyday. I am already in the L mount ecosystem with a Panasonic S5.. and I have just been looking for that "next step" without having to retool my entire kit. I'm going to have to go through this at least two or three more times,, not a problem for me since I lose track of the information in the stunning images that you've shared here. Thanks so much..

Gajan, I'm always impressed by your blatant honesty in talking about your experience as a professional photographer. It's a beautiful journey into photography, and every video brings some more tips and new dimensions to my own amateur photography. Thanks.

Great video! I run a GFX for normal landscape/cityscape stuff. I bought a Q2 Monochrom because monochrome! and it turned me into a Leica fanboy. So of course I had to get an SL2-S. It's a beautiful camera and I love it. I am currently having gear lust for an M11 Monochrom as well. Thanks for sharing!

Regarding body vs lens conversations: I love my Canon RF system in part because the 800/11 is such a remarkable value for wildlife photography. For less than $1000 USD you get ridiculous reach, and the AF and image quality, while not mind-blowing, are really solid. 💙

I left Fuji in February and moved from the XH2S to the Sl2S. As you said; it makes me want to go out and shoot. Yeah it cost a fair amount paired with the 24-90, but I could also drive ford if I’m driving was just about getting from A to B. A great watch Gajan. Took me three visits to finish it, but well worth it. I’ve only been here a couple of years, but well done on the five years of content creation.

I still inlove after 1 year! The autofocus is improving in native lens special the new 35mm and 50mm fast

Thank you brother. Appreciate your work. I am really happy with my Sl2 and the choice I made for myself not the naysayers. Sure AF is a great feature, but that’s more like the camera “taking” the photo, and less about you “making” an image. My perspective…if it’s all about AF then we all may as well just use an iPhone.

A very interesting and nice review of the system. I love my Lumix S1R which is in the L-alliance as well, more or less the same camera as the SL2 though of course, as you said, there are differences between image processing and of course the design, menus etc. What I felt right away from the sensor in the S1R (though not the same) is the superb image quality and processing, There is a special feel to the files and I am sure Leica further improves on this. The auto focus in the S1R is superb in most situations, as it was in my m43 Lumix G9, wicked fast. When it comes to low light, yes the contrast detect AF struggles and fails but those are rare occasions and the superb EVF of these cameras which is still among the best out there makes manual focus easy. I'd love an SL in the future, and I am quite sure I will get one but the overall handling and feel the of the Lumix S1R is superb, best I've ever used. Thanks for the review and your thoughts.

Running SL2-S and M11 as well. Phase One kit is taking a break for the exact same reasons you are explaining here! Thank you!

🪬 I am super grateful for all of your insights!! I am just getting into selling prints of all sizes and bought an M11 yesterday that will arrive next week. I started with the X-T3 and moved to the X-Pro3 and then to the M10R. I moved both my XP3s and my M10R to get to the 60MP for big prints and also that longer battery life for when I am out shooting. Now, I find myself wanting a backup camera/photoshoot camera. But i'm unsure about the 24mp for printing larger thzn 20x30. This video has piqued my interest enough though, that I will be visiting my local Leica store this week to take it for a spin! Your journey continues to inspire and inform my artistic side and i'm excited to see what's next! Thanks for your equal dedication to the art and the gear Gajan!

After much debate I went all in with the SL2s system and SL APO lens sell all of my Nikon gear. Once I saw for myself the color science and the results of the APO Summicrons I was sold. This was hard for me to do since I have been shooting Nikon since 2000. Not looking back with any regrets. Love this system.

Very technically precise video and info! Nice! Also, it is so refreshing and beautiful to see scenes from India. Thanks Gajan! As much as I still use digital, I've gone back to film. The emotion and simplicity are heart warming for me. Now, put your camera to good use and go help save the few Bengal Tigers left with your photos and videos. You'll be a hero. Pranams, Lynx

Super late to the video, but when I needed to know what the SL2-S was REALLY like....I knew who to come to. 🍊

Been owning this camera for the past 4 months and I find the built, and simplicity of the functions my favorite part.

This was worth watching.🎑It made me think beyond pixel counting. Pairing it with my M11 is a wonderful idea. My M11 is simply fun to use and it is my most used camera. Leica cameras really do make photography fun. I have been using Capture One for years. Capture One simply works without the confusion of other approaches.

SL2-S Reporter is my All Time favorite camera ! & I've been shooting for over 25 years trying most Camera brands and many of their heavy hitters.

Blue. 💥💫. Simplicity of the Leica. Waiting for the Sl3. Have the SL2-S and Q3. Cheers!

I'm a new photographer who intends to document the built environment in tandem with my architectural history studies at the University of Virginia's architecture school. I'm a master's student. Thank you for a thoughtful product-centric review free of those photo-bro distractions for the hours I've spent on KZfaq. Also, my favorite color is orange, per the emoji.

🟩 I know you waxed eloquent, but I enjoyed every minute (with a few skips) and made it to the end. I have a pair of SLs and in 2024, feel that the SL2-S may be the right camera to upgrade to in terms of value. Allow me to start using my SL and M lenses again. Great shots of various parts of India too!

Thanks for this video and all your thoughts. I recently used a Leica QP for an event I was shooting and it blew my mind. Ever since I've been doing a deep dive into Leica to figure out what body and lenses I might want to invest in. So far the SL2 is leading the pack.

If someone wants to use Leica L mount lenses with phase detect AF they can just throw them on a Panasonic S5ii, the beauty of the L mount alliance. The Panasonic colors are extremely close to Leica and they often collaborate, hence the Leica profiles on some Pana bodies. I have both a Panasonic and SL2 body and they are both great. Both accept M lenses beautifully.

SL2-S is as good as it gets right now for testing film lenses thanks to the filter/sensor design and EVF and eye optical elements. Love mine.

The photo of the birds on the boat. WOW!

I LOVE my SL2-S soooo much . . . and combined with vintage Leica prime R lenses (with its low light performance and focus peaking) . . its a DREAM combination

Thanks for the insightful "review". I've been debating buying the SL2-S for a couple of months. I'm glad this video came along at the right time. I think what you had to say has helped me finalize the decision. My once concern is how image quality is dependent on true Leica lenses make, or rather, how much will non-Leica brand lenses lessen image quality. I recently switched from Nikon to the Lumix S1R and planned to pair it with the SL system. I've primarily purchased the Lumix S Pro and Sigma Art lenses. Do you think these will come close to producing the image quality you speak of? Made it to the end, so green 🦎.

🫐 nice tips for me! Im deciding which one to get sl2s or the nikon one after i watch this definitely SL2S!!

Your video definitely sold me on sticking my current SL 601 and then upgrading to an SL2-S in a few months. I have an M10 and I think it’ll complement it very well. I’m ok with 24MP, especially if I have amazing dynamic range and low light performance. To me it seems like it’ll be a perfect long term mirrorless camera. I love using my SL 601 and I can only imagine how much more the SL2-S will be with the modern technology, updated features, and improved ergonomics. Thanks for reassuring my decision that this camera is perfect for me as my main camera with my M10 being my smaller camera that offers a more pure shooting experience with the rangefinder and manual lenses. I’m very excited to say the least and I’ll enjoy my current SL 601 while I sell my previous system (Olympus micro four thirds) and acquire a few AF lenses for it and use my M glass on it. Then I’ll sell the SL 601 and buy the SL2-S. Can’t wait to use the SL2-S but for the time being I’ll enjoy my SL 601.

As much as I like the technical improvements of the SL2-s, there is something special about the original 601. The viewfinder and display are more than fine (EVF still better than most of today's cameras), the button layout is pretty unique and the body is a piece of art. Yes, it is less ergonomic, less performant, less user friendly and has less features ... and let's not talk about video. But the look and feel and especially the shutter sound is so uncompromisingly industrial... for me it is THE SL.

Your video is the very first about the Leica SL2 which makes me understand, why people really want and use this camera. Matt Days video about his switch back to the SL2 is also great, but yours is just brilliant because of the deep dive detailed review. Brilliant Gajan!!! 💧

My first view of your channel. Great video and information! I just got into the Leica system.

Thank you Gaian for delivery an amazing dish as always! Enjoyed this journey with you. 🌱

Am I too late for the instagram DM capture one thing? Great video. I think when you pick up the SL2-S you either know or you don't. There is just something even in that first moment that lights a passion. An understanding. Then you discover the image quality. You did a good job of putting these things into words. It's not easy. Also I made it to the end so here is a random emoji as requested...

Great video! I used the 601 for a long time and bought the SL2S last summer. It's really perfect, as you describe. Picked up the Voigtländer 28mm 1.5 a couple of days ago, now I have a"poor man's Q" 😂 My stress test will be my journey to Kolkata in July ...

More accurate than Fujifilm colours is just something that happens after shooting Fujifilm for a while. There's no film simulation that does everything correct they all have a little quirk to them, so when I picked up a Canon or my new Ricoh GRIII I was stunned by the colour too. So accurate yet also pleasing somehow. I could finally get both my wife and my skin tone correct at the same time. Rather than use Pro Neg H for me and Provia for her. Fujifilm colours do not like interracial couples. 😂

Leica makes fantastic camera systems. Between my M10 and Panasonic S1 I feel I am living in a dream. Nice vid! ❤

You convinced me. Picked one up today!

Love my SL2S with SL lenses, but my favorite is with M lenses especially the 1.4/50 Summilux.

Great video - loved the image at 03:55. I don't own a Leica SL2/s, but if it's good enough for Steve McCurry it's good enough for me.

Brilliant work, mate! I feel like you have perfectly captured the unique essence of India. I have to say, India has so much character and looks like a documentary, street or even landscape photographer's dream! It's been on my list for years.

🔴 Enjoy these long form personal reviews about your Leica experience. Great commentary, b-roll, excellent sample images, and videos.

Great review thanks. After using the SL for a few months which I really loved for vintage lenses. It's still a great camera in 2023 btw. I am picking up a used SL2-S in mint conditions at one of the Leica stores in Paris for 3500€ plus 12 month warranty :)

Another great vid!💯👊 It’s refreshing to see how you give a straightforward opinion between other brands, to medium and full frame, key features and who’s it for. I’m looking to purchase a Hasselblad x2d for my fine art photography. But, after hearing/reading rumors that Leica is looking to possibly release their medium format camera (SL?) to compete with Hasselblad and Fuji. I’m excited for what’s to come. 🙌📷

🐋 (fav color) I love my SL2S, but my favorite is still the 601. It has so many flaws and yet has soo many characteristics! Love your video!

Absolutelly stunning review. Best one out there hands down. Great work was put into this. Just shows how capable this camera is in 2023. Enjoy what you have and stop looking for upgrades, updates etc. This camera has it plenty and more. As for AF - I have a question - was this review based on 5.1 system update? And I also agree, this camera is very silently recieved, not many videos, reviews etc out there. And maybe thats exactly why I choosed one. Its superb. Thank you Gajan. Subbed

📀 I love your videos! I’m just coming back to photography after years away. Your passion, incredible work and eloquent observations have inspired me to reach higher. Thank you!

👍Great review. I have an SL2-s and I love the versatility, with my SL or M primes. It feels like multiple cameras all in one.

You’re absolutely right with this camera. I’ve been in fashion and beauty photography for 35+ years and have used many different cameras. Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm and (still do) Hasselblad. Last year, when finally Capture One and Profoto started to support Leica, I made the switch to the SL-system. Couple of SL2s with 47MP for studio work and an SL2-S for low light and video. That last camera has become my absolute favorite. Almost to the level of my M cameras. The images are gorgeous. The 24-90 is an insanely good lens. Together with the 50 Lux and the 90 APO, I have almost everything I will ever need at a IQ level you can’t find anywhere else. I have no issues with AF, but I can imagine that video in low light requires skills you may not have. A month ago an art director of a fashion magazine I often work for, selected an image for publishing that was shot at ISO12500. They normally reject everything commercial above ISO400. That’s how good this camera is…

I buy my Leica bodies used but was recently at the store looking at Sony for wildlife photography and those are more expensive than I thought, $2,500-$6,000. A used SL can be found for under $2k and SL2 under $3700. And M lenses from Voigtlander are half the price of a most G master lenses. Plus the L mount alliance, Sony shooters know how awesome the Sigma 24-70 is compared to the G master for value.

I am considering an SL2S. Your review was helpful.🤪

Great review, Gajan! Well explained and very informative. Thank you for this video 😊

Thanks for the passionate review - I like how you relate your technical needs to your feelings. Also - love your street photos.

Great overview of the camera. I switched to this just a few months back and it's really something. I appreciate hearing your take on the SL lenses. I have only one right now but I think am going to pull the trigger on the 24-90. Yes big, but it sure seems like people who have it have no regrets related to the size.

I sold one of my M cameras recently with plans of picking up a Q, but I have been looking at the SL series to pair with my remaining M. Thanks Gajan.. Great video...

Yes I went to the end. I do not have that Leica but the SL2. Once I get a more modern Mac computer I will try the Capture One link

This silver M to L adapter is dope...

Absolutely appreciate your use of dark backround color on slideshows!!! Thank you

How is the autofocusing compared to a fuji xt-4? I shoot a lot of fitness photography (powerlifting, albeit not the fastest moving sport, it does require some level of autofocusing). I am thinking about upgrading to the SL2-S from an xt-4 due to the sharpness and the color science of Leicas. 🖤

This is my favourite one. And I think Lumix s1 is a more restricted version of this with panny colors.

It would be interesting to have you walk us through your top 10 most meaningful photos you have taken.

I wonder why the Q2/3 doesn’t get more respect in the realm of professional photography. With its amazing sensor, high megapixels, ability to crop and still retain respectable image quality as well as a very reliable autofocus, why doesn’t it get more recognition?

Hi Gaian I really enjoyed the video. You know how much I enjoy my M’s and the M glass but my good friends at Leica Dubai convinced me to add an SL2 body to allow me to maximize the usability and creativity of some of my more exotic M lenses (I am thinking of 50mm noctilux 90mm summarit and 135 mm Apo Telyt. I never needed autofocus but then I bought the 24-90 Sl Zoom and 90 mm apo summicron SL and I then entered another world. You know I guess I am fortunate as I can probably buy any brand. But you said it, it it feels like quality, looks like quality it probably is. On the higher res SL2 the only issue I have is Low light performance at higher ISO. However I have the M10P and the type 246 monochrome to take care of that. If my living depended on never missing a shot and always nailing autofocus, I would buy the latest and greatest Sony and use it for the tool it is. Fortunately I don’t have to and my Leica bodies with all that beautiful Leica glass continue to provide me with all the tools to help my modest creative endeavors. Regards from Plymouth UK. Steve

🌅 currently on A1. Thanks for this very informative and entertaining look at the Leica system.

I had two of them and they were great but I sold the last one and grabbed an M11. I think the SL2 is the a way y to go if I add another SL body! Great video for sure!!!

Great video! Love my SLs, fantastic cameras for what I ask them to do! 😊

Great video. As I mention elsewhere, they will catch-up on AF. And resolution…. Not big deal they have everything else. Note that their APO SL lenses are all intentionally same size and weight.… guess why? Video… no need to recalibrate rig between lenses…. I guess that's a big deal? :) APO is also a big deal for video...

Phase detect AF and a tilt screen would be nice to see in a SL3-S.

Awesome vlog Gajan.... I am a Leica M-D user who moved to Q2 and probably made most images with those, then added Canon R6 and seem to be lost a bit and was thinking of getting a Nikon Z8and not sure why this vlog popped up :p..hmm I really wanna go out and shoot after watching this but I have to wait until sunrise! Next time u are in India please announce it :) I am in the Himalayas...would be nice to shoot along..

Came for the review, entranced by your stunning work, good shit man

Bro that vid is... awesome! This camera is a joy to use, even with its drawbacks :)

Great vid Gajan, thanks. Looking at getting a new camera and considering a SL2s or a Fuji XH2s (to compliment my GFX50r). I shoot, photo narratives, documentary style advertising and lifestyle. My go-to camera has been a 5D4 which I'll probably keep (its been great). I looked at the R5 but I want a change. I realise the SL2s AF isn't in the same ballpark at the R5 but I don't shoot a lot of sport and even when I do I have always seemed to manage with more antiquated systems. I like the colour science from Leica and even in its raw sate will offer a valuable steer my edit /colour choice + the lenses!! The only thing It seems to lack at the moment is Camranger (or similar) compatibility? I've been told it does tether well to C1? Any steer on the SL2s vs the XH2s (other than FF vs APSC) would be be appreciated. Thanks again for the work you put into the vids ...

I am only interested in the output of a camera. As a Canon shooter my question is very simple: What would I gain with the Leica SL2-S in image quality? Is there really a noticeable difference in the final product, the print? I have some doubts. Nowadays you can fine-tune your images in post processing to a degree not imaginable some years ago. So I can give any desired specific look to my Canon images, and probably nobody can tell from which camera they come.

❤ great video. I love m’y SL2-S and 24-90. Unreal. Pairs well with my m10-R

I use this bad boy every day, along with my GFX 100s, but my Leica SL2s is a BEAST

Thinking of getting a pre-owned one for £4,600 with a SL 24-70mm F2.8 ASPH lens

Totally agree with you that as a 2nd body to my M10-R, Leica SL is a great addition, but for me personally I would get the SL2 (not the "S") in order to match the sensor resolution for photo as I do not shoot video (any more)… But I would opt for the SL2 for the additional benefit of Auto Focus and a camera that is contrast based AF simply is not the way to go, SL3 perhaps ? What will happen the used prices of SL2 and SL2-S when a SL3 Phase Detect AF arrives in 2023?

These photos are incredibly beautiful

Brother I thank you say conversation instead of " Review " you express your thoughts very well , to me it's like sitting with a friend an just talking it out not reviewing .

What a refreshing, stellar, and articulate review. I’m considering making the investment into the SL system. I truly appreciate the effort you put into creating this video. Thanks!

Great video Gajan. I’ll stick with Fujifilm right now for obvious reasons. which also happens to be related to the color of choice 💵. But the emoji which came to mind is capturing this wonderful season at the beginning of a new year - the spring 🌱