In this Leica M6 review, we’ll explain why this camera is the ideal combination of high-quality engineering with an enjoyable user experience. I’ve always thought the Leica M6 TTL was a terrific combination of quality engineering and a great user experience. As with any other Leica camera, the M6 TTL’s build quality and mechanics are a joy to work with. There’s nothing to complain about. There’s also the minimalist approach. The camera setup and viewfinder are clutter-free, which means that nothing distracts you from taking images.
Previously, my favourite was the Leica M6 Classic, which included a light metre. The similar metering technique has been used on the M6 TTL. It does, however, include a new capability for TTL flash metering, as well as the exposure indicator has been improved. The M6 TTL also has a 0.58x viewfinder option, as well as a larger and more ergonomic shutter speed dial.
Who exactly is the Leica M6 designed for?
If you’re willing to spend a little more money on one of the best film cameras available. It is well-made, precise, and has a simple yet elegant design; strongly consider purchasing the M6 TTL for yourself. This camera model is similar to vintage Leica cameras but has the advantage of being created in the present era.
The Leica M6 TTL fits perfectly in your hands and is the ideal size for carrying about. It is not audibly loud, and even the shutter sound is pleasingly quiet. The absence of a mirror is what makes the camera quieter than modern SLRs. However, don’t anticipate ninja-level stealth from this camera because it does not have a small footprint in terms of size. If you prefer street photography, you’ll fall in love with its rangefinder camera design.
If you have the money and want a clutter-free experience, consider purchasing this camera. Then there’s the dependability and satisfaction that comes with working with a Leica.
TTL Flash Meter and Light Meter
One of the finest things that the Leica M6 had when it first came out was the inclusion of a light metre. The M6’s centre-weighted light metre allowed you to be more efficient with your exposures. Similarly, when the M6 TTL was released, it included TTL flash metering. This feature, when used with compatible flash units, allows you to automatically adjust the flash output to get near-perfect exposure without having to fuss with the power settings.
Many Leica users, particularly those interested in street photography, do not use flash. If you are one of them and prefer not to work with flash, you can opt out of the TTL flash metering option. However, there are some significant improvements to this model that may keep you interested.
The light metre in the M6 TTL, for example, has experienced some upgrades. The light metre display includes three LEDs for underexposure, correct exposure, and overexposure. The M6, on the other hand, just had a left and right arrow to indicate under or overexposure. This made determining how far you were from proper exposure difficult. I’m incredibly pleased with how much less guesswork I now have to do when shooting with the Leica M6 TTL.
The presence of a light metre necessitates the use of batteries in the camera. However, failure to do so will not result in the camera’s death. Because the remainder of the camera is totally mechanical, it will function flawlessly.
Shutter Speed Dial
The shutter speed dial on the Leica M6 TTL is substantially larger and situated closer to the front. For these reasons, I appreciate how easy it is to modify the shutter speed with just the index finger. This was not the case with the smaller dial on the M6.
The shutter speed dial on the M6 TTL has changed in more ways than one. The shutter dial of the M6 TTL is the opposite of earlier models. This implies that you can now adjust the exposure by turning it in the same direction that the arrows on the light metre point. This adjustment pleased me because it makes the camera much easier to use.
Film Loading Mechanism
The film loading mechanism in the Leica M6 TTL is one of my favourites. The quick load method is similar to the technique seen in the M6. It took a few tries with my older M6 to get used to, but once I got the hang of it, there was no turning back.
However, the fact that we must remove the baseplate from the camera body occasionally bothers me. What if I drop it when changing a roll of film and it ends up in the drain or a river? To retain the baseplate on the camera body, I believe a hinge mechanism would have been preferable.
Viewfinder
In addition to the 0.72x and 0.85x viewfinder variants, the Leica M6 TTL features a 0.58x viewfinder variant. This version has frame lines that look fantastic with wide-angle lenses, and if you wear glasses like me, you’ll love it. The one I have, though, is the 0.85x variant. This is suited for use with longer focal lengths and wide-aperture lenses. It greatly simplifies focusing for certain types of lenses.
Verdict
If you’re looking for a Leica film camera, the Leica M6 TTL is a strong option. It has to be one of Leica’s best film cameras ever. The camera’s compactness, light metre, and ease of use can make anyone fall in love with it. If you find yourself shooting a lot of movement shots, keep in mind that the shutter speed on the Leica M6 TTL is only 1/1000s. While this is quick enough, you should decide whether it is sufficient for your needs.
Another key consideration with the Leica M6 series is that they are all mechanical cameras (except for the light metre though). As a result, you have no auto or semi-auto modes to help you with your work. If you want to work with a Leica but don’t mind the camera supporting you, consider the Leica M7 with its aperture priority setting.
