Part II: LEICA D LUX 8 Review: 2000 Shots Later

Part II:
Welcome to my in-depth review of the Leica D Lux 8! In this video, I'll share my experiences shooting over 2000 images with the Leica D Lux 8, and you'll see plenty of sample images and videos, including stunning 4K footage at 24-30p. I'll also provide a detailed comparison of the Leica D Lux 8 against the Fuji X100VI and Ricoh GRIII.

Welcome to my in-depth review of the Leica D Lux 8! In this video, I'll share my experiences shooting over 2000 images with the Leica D Lux 8, and you'll see plenty of sample images and videos, including stunning 4K footage at 24-30p. I'll also provide a detailed comparison of the Leica D Lux 8 against the Fuji X100VI and Ricoh GRIII.

The Leica D Lux 8, while similar in hardware to the Leica D Lux 7, boasts significant improvements. Notably, the D Lux 8 now shoots RAW DNG files, offering greater flexibility in post-processing compared to the JPEG-only D Lux 7. I found the autofocus to be responsive, even though I tested a prototype firmware. By the time the D Lux 8 is released, its performance should be even more reliable.

The D Lux 8's design takes cues from the Leica Q3, making it look like a mini Q3 when the lens is retracted. It retains the same versatile 24-75mm f1.7 to f2.8 lens, delivering excellent performance in a compact, fast package.

A standout feature of the Leica D Lux 8 is its Micro Four Thirds sensor, which provides impressive dynamic range, potentially surpassing cameras with larger sensors. The camera's handling is comfortable, even without a grip, and its performance is highly responsive, producing great image quality. While it may not compete with the superior sensors and optics of the Leica Q3 or M11, the D Lux 8 serves as an excellent secondary camera, especially for those who prefer carrying a body with a prime lens.

Though the D Lux 8 can shoot video, I wouldn't consider it the best option for vlogging or hybrid shooting. It excels as a pocketable photography camera. Priced around $1600, it's a great entry point into the Leica ecosystem.

After extensive shooting, I'm pleased with the results and the control offered in post-processing. In this video, I'll discuss whether the Leica D Lux 8 is worth the investment and who it’s best suited for.

Make sure to watch both parts of this comprehensive review. If you find value in this video, please like and subscribe for more content like this. Enjoy!
#leicadlux8review #leicadlux8comparison #leicadlux8vsdlux7

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[tommytorres]

I'm not convinced that the images from this will that much better than an iPhone15 Pro Max shooting RAW. A little better? Depending on the subject and image, yes. But it's a hard sell for me. I'd step up to the Ricoh or the Fujifilm X100.

[mylenwyd]

Hi Gaston, just a quick thank you for your review. What sets it apart in my opinion: While other reviews often complain about performance (often comparing it to different camera systems such as DSLR or large format mirrorless), you mention your choices to make the camera work (best example: in order to speed up, use central AF focus field and recompose, instead of relying on face detection). Much appreciated. Camera‘s on the way. The UI of this brand is simply unparalleled when compared to peers in the same camera category.

[shaka-surf]

This is a great review of the D-Lux 8. Well done!

[Lehmannbeat]

The D-lux 7 has RAW, so I don't know why people get so excited about the 8 having DNG as the two formats don't differ much really!? I can't compare the menus exactly, but the 8 seems to be missing a few features like custom WB that applies to RAW, which I find very useful.

[michaeld]

One thing I seem to remember people were annoyed that the lens on the LX100 withdrew on entering timeout stand bye so sucking air when next enabled. This did not help minimise dust ingress. Is this a problem and does it still happen?

[lloydterryjr.bodygraphicsphoto]

Goos informative videos. I've been researching this camera for a while for travel and just walking around taking pictures when I just want to go shoot.

[shaka-surf]

Some have mentioned that Leica is doing this as a "cash grab, " an ornament for TikTok-ers, or a gateway camera into the more expensive Q or M lines. I believe this camera is made for someone that wants portability, a zoom lens, and a unique minimal design. As for the red dot, everyone knows that all Leica cameras come with a "Leica tax" and some are more than happy to pay for it!

[JStevenSanders]

I just bought this and added the Leica grip. Expensive but worth it. Perfect fit and while it doesn’t allow access to the battery compartment I believe it provides more protection from moisture and to keep the battery door from accidentally opening.

[jimconnerly]

I recently purchased this camera as a sidekick to my other Leicas after traveling to Spain with a Q2. The risk of having your camera stolen is very real and having something light that I can have on a wrist strap or put into a pocket is very attractive. So far it’s just what I was looking for.

[mnikolew]

I owned and loved the DL7 and shot only RAW. I’m perplexed as to why folks, including yourself are saying that it didn’t.

[skfoto]

Owner of M10-R (4.5 years now and no hiccups) and Nikon ZF, just added the D-Lux8 a few months ago. All fantastic cameras. Been following your channel here, and on IG. Just subscribed. Very good content with great explanations. Also, your LR presets are really good, big fan of the pastel one. Thank you.

[gerryphillipson]

Hi, Gaston, thanks for both Part 1 & 2. Really useful up the learning curve. Could you please indicate how to deactivate touch screen focusing. Can the placement and size of the focus point be set before doing this? Stay well.

[ericschenberg]

Hi, was dust proofing improved (D-Lux 7 and Panasonic LX100 suffered from dust on sensor... And you can't remove the lens to clean it) ? Same lens it seems, so I'm concerned no attention has been paid solving this major flaw... Can you elaborate on that please? 🙃

[ketrincelo]

How does it compare to the sony RX100 series? Any preference between the two?

[JamesFraher-zf]

Can the format be set to 1:1, is there a multiple exposure feature and lastly this model seems to be a Leica upgrade version of the Lumix dmc lx100. After a number of years of use my Lumix lx100 started have dust issues due to the lens gaskets wearing out.

[AlicedePalma]

Thanks for the review! What's your experience with dust in the lens? Because I read that the D-Lux 7 had this problem, did they fix it?

[ghakarhi]

Great review thank you! Quick two questions: 1) Any way to connect and external mic to the camera? 2) Any compatible OCF options that will work with this camera?

[helmutkruckemeyer]

Good video, thx.
Has the D-Lux 8 some Leica Looks installed, for example as the new Leica LUX app, especial in b&w?

[daniel-lee]

Did they say anything about improved weather sealing? Dust on the sensor was one of the issues with the LX100 series.

[joemama]

What focal length does it default to upon startup? widest or longest focal length?