Getting used to M8 shutter

[F456]

Here goes: my first post on this forum.

I've used Leica M-series film cameras for a long time. Got used to the quiet shutter and - most importantly - exactly when it will trip (unless out of adjustment - has happened before).

Despite others' comments the M8 shutter by comparison sounds to me like a pistol shot. But - again most importantly - I'm finding it hard to gauge when it will trip: the pressure doesn't give me much clue.

I'd be interested to know if this problem is just mine, and if not how easily one gets used to it.

Tom

[greggebhardt]

My M8 shutter release is different than my M7. I would expect it to be.

If you think your shutter sounds like a "pistol shot" you will, without a doubt be unhappy with the feeling of the M8 release as well.

I am not trying to be mean here but these two cameras are different in many ways. As different as their output!

[F456]

Since you are used to M7 and M8 (i.e. one film and one digital) and know how different they are, are you happy with both? It shouldn't be too much of a problem for me as I won't work with film and digital on the same shoot. Did you find it took a while to get used to the new shutter, Greg?

Tom

[Keith]

I don't have a problem with the shutter noise but I do find the release point hard to judge ... there's a very fine line between the point where you lock the shutter speed in AE mode and actually tripping the shutter. I'm getting used to it and maybe it will improve with use?

[F456]

Thanks for that, Keith. It shows my M8 is normal and it's just a question of getting used to it. It's early days, but I am very pleased with the handling and the results.
Tom

[kenspix]

Enjoy some time with the low light ,and slow down the shutter speeds.You will be able to capture some cool shots. good luck

[KM-25]

It's too bad that Leica did not get into the habit of providing s slightly different method of actuating the meter in the later M cameras. When I use my M6 or MP3, there is always that detent to get the meter going to break up the shutter action.

When I shoot my M3....it goes right away like a darn high powered rifle, no meter detent. This might my favorite thing about the M3, in over 32 years of shooting, this is the only camera that behaves like that giving me at least a stop more hand-holding ability.

Having said this, when I tried my friend's M8, I knew I would have to get over that part quick...:-).

M8 black is in my "basket" at B&H waiting on me to complete the purchase.........

[Gary Sandhu]

Practice. 3000 shots later and I got it.

[greggebhardt]

Since you are used to M7 and M8 (i.e. one film and one digital) and know how different they are, are you happy with both? It shouldn't be too much of a problem for me as I won't work with film and digital on the same shoot. Did you find it took a while to get used to the new shutter, Greg?

Tom

Yes, I am not saying that I am completely used to it yet but I find it is not that bad. You will, in time, be used to it. It would be more easy if I only used the M8 but I still use both.

[grduprey]

The detent in the shutter release is the same as every other electronic camera. This has been the norm since the first electronic camera. The feel may vary some, but it is there in all of them.