The iconic Leica M series has gone digital with the introduction of the M8. A review of the rangefinder camera was just posted on DP Review. The review was for the most part positive with the reviewer pointing out the differences of shooting with a Rangefinder camera of this quality. With such a camera you have to think differently about composition, depth of field and other manual features. The camera is costly with a $4,795 price tag for just the body. However for Leica enthusiasts this will be money well spent.

DP Review stated, “So what’s the bottom line? I have to admit that I’ve been turned, from a skeptic to a believer, certainly the M8 isn’t a camera everyone is going to afford, but a rangefinder is certainly something any ‘serious’ photographer should try at some point in their life. It’s changed the way I shoot, I’ve found myself going back to manual focus more even when I use DSLR’s and being more selective about lenses and depth of field, and more creative in my framing. My advice on the M8 would be, if you can afford to then get one, be aware of its limitations, shoot RAW and rediscover ‘capturing moments’.”

Earlier this week Panasonic released tow digital cameras the Panasonic DMC-FX55 and FX33, under their Lumix line. The two cameras are basically the same with only difference between the two is a larger LCD monitor and front grip on the FX55. Other than that the cameras share a 3.6X wide angle (28-100mm) Leica zoom lens and optical image stabilization. Both cameras also feature an ISO range from 100 to 1600, with an option to push the ISO all the way up 6400! The camera also features face detection and “Intelligent auto mode”, which automatically sets the settings to most suitable mode.

Via DP Review