He knew that he shouldn't have said that ... (Leica Q)
With my two weeks in Galle having come to an unspectacular end, and being back at work in the sandy hued Doha a hesitantly call "home", I can fondly confirm that Sri Lanka is definitely a prime destination for any adventurous traveler and travel photographer. No wonder that Sri Lanka is also voted the number one travel destination for 2017 by Bloomberg, an honor I'm sure bears some respect in the industry.
She will always be there for him ... (Leica Q)
I spent my last week in Galle to mostly explore around the area, in an almost desperate attempt to see and capture as much possible quality stock before my return to the desert that is Doha. This is (as always) made easier by renting a scooter, and with the wonders of Google Maps in my pocket, deep explorations into the back roads and rural farmlands is always possible without the angst of getting lost. This way, I've managed to experience some spectacular rice paddy scenery and lifestyles around rural Galle, something the average tourist probably misses out on. With a highly diverse environment, I will surely visit Sri Lanka again.
As for the transition from my beloved Fuji X100s to the Leica Q, I believe this process to be as complete as it can be. The Q definitely became my weapon of choice during week two. I also believe that I've developed some new muscle memory that resulted in a more comfortable grip on the Q with a wrist strap, but all things considered, I'm tempted to rather revert to the (rather beautifully made) standard leather neck strap that came with the Leica. Try as I may, it just doesn't feel totally comfortable in the hand, and especially when driving around on a scooter, would be much better to just hang around my neck.
They shared a common interest ... (Leica Q)
Walk the Walk ... (Leica Q)
The Fuji did however do some work too, albeit for a rather contrived reason. It went along on a tandem para-motor flight along the beaches and lagoons of Bentota. My thought was that, from a purely economical view, should I lose my grip, I'd rather loose the Fuji to the ocean than the Leica. Thankfully the risk was never there, I suspect mostly due to the fact that the pilot and I share an equal interest in a safe landing. It also made me realize that I miss a 35mm equivalent lens with an option the add the 28mm converter in one compact package. The crop solution offered by Leica just doesn't do it for me.
Now, after this wholly unscientific and completely biased and personal review of the X100s and Leica Q, what can I conclude from this? I'm starting to love the Leica, but I cannot help to think that guilt plays a small part in that. The Leica's cost is prohibitive under many normal circumstances. It kinda feels like I HAVE to like it. The Fuji never made me feel guilty. I always enjoyed the way it performed, never disappointed, and it looks great! But, it's given me four years of service and the opportunity was there for me to move on.
Aspirations Guaranteed ... (Leica Q)
To conclude, with so many great, quality and ever-improving MFT offerings by Fuji, Olympus (the ones I have personal experience with) and many more, there is a compelling case for continuing to support their efforts. The total cost of one's investment in any of the alternatives is ultimately relative and driven by personal and professional need, as a good body such as the Fuji X-Pro2, and a pair of choice prime lenses can easily exceed the cost of the Leica Q's fixed lens package. The other advantage is that it is easier to upgrade or refresh your kit from time-to-time with more economical options.
Her destination was clear ... (Leica Q)
Despite the Leica now firmly in my travel bag as my first choice, I thoroughly believe that the alternatives out there are the better, sane choices - at least for me, and what I do. Others may differ, but the Fuji will still be my more compact daily companion for the foreseeable future. Time will tell if the Leica will ultimately earn the same respect from me.
What's your poison? (Leica Q)
He stopped to look back one last time ... (Leica Q)
Many happy meals have been shared ... (Leica Q)
She was not sure what to make of this ... (Leica Q)
Untitled (Leica Q)
He will clean up his workshop ... tomorrow. (Leica Q)