Leica Summicron-M 28mm f/2 ASPH

Leica M-Mount

Review

The Leica Summicron-M 28mm f/2 ASPH is a lens that has made quite an impression among street and landscape photographers who appreciate the combination of compactness, reliability, and optical performance. When mounted on a Leica M camera, it embodies the spirit of the brand, offering a classic perspective with modern enhancements.

This lens features a superb build quality, which is characteristic of Leica's craftsmanship. The all-metal construction not only gives it a solid feel but also offers durability that can withstand the rigors of daily photography. Its compact design makes it an excellent choice for photographers looking to travel light without sacrificing image quality. At an aperture of f/2, it allows enough light to be captured in challenging lighting conditions while still delivering excellent depth of field control.

One of the standout features of the Summicron-M 28mm is its impressive optical performance. It boasts exceptional sharpness across the frame, even at wider apertures. The lens exhibits minimal distortion, making it ideal for architectural shots and landscapes. The bokeh produced is smooth and pleasing, providing a nice background separation when needed. Additionally, the ASPH (aspherical) elements help reduce aberrations and enhance clarity, ensuring that images are sharp and vibrant.

Another benefit of this lens is its close focusing capability, allowing photographers to get fairly close to subjects while still capturing the full context of the scene. This flexibility is valuable for those who enjoy street photography or want to emphasize subjects within their environment.

However, it's important to note that the lens comes with a few drawbacks. While the compact design is a significant advantage, some users may find the focus ring to be a bit stiff, especially when compared to other lenses in its class. This might take some time to get used to, particularly for photographers who prefer smooth manual focusing. Additionally, the price point can be a barrier for many; as with most Leica products, the quality comes at a premium, making it less accessible for amateurs or those on a tighter budget.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional build quality and durability
• Impressive optical performance with excellent sharpness
• Minimal distortion, great for architecture and landscapes
• Smooth bokeh and pleasing background separation
• Close focusing capability offers creative versatility

Cons

• Stiff focus ring may require adjustment for some users
• Premium price point limits accessibility for some photographers

Verdict

In conclusion, the Leica Summicron-M 28mm f/2 ASPH stands out as a fantastic choice for serious photographers looking for a high-quality lens that delivers on both image quality and build. While it may have a few quirks and limitations, its strengths far outweigh them, making it a worthy investment for those who value the intricacies of excellent optics. If you're committed to the Leica system and appreciate the classic 28mm focal length, this lens could very well become a staple in your photography kit.