Big stupid

Small camera.I succumbed to the siren song of fine German engineering.I ordered, well back-ordered it.

hangs head in shame

I have no idea when I'll get it.

Yes, you're seeing that right. I've been drooling over Leicas since I first saw an M5. Finances never conspired to let me even consider getting one. A German gem wrought of brass, steel, and chrome.

Of course I can't justify the immaculate German glass -- or at least not justify a set of Leica lenses. I can justify a fine German marque but made in a far away land also known for fine optics: Zeiss from Japan. (Eventually I'll get the German glass though... I know myself well enough to predict that eventuality.)

Why?

I grew up with a Minolta X-700 with a 50mm f/1.4 lens. Within those constraints I was able to function -- and function well. Time passed and I got a hand-me-down 70-200mm f/4. All of this was manual focus -- auto focus was still years away even for high-end pro gear. I have a fondness for a good 50mm.

Carrying around my kit with a bunch of lenses and a big intimidating camera made me think about what I lug around. I think having the limitation of two or three lenses is a good one. Never carry more than three.