For most of my career I have used DSLR and medium format cameras from the likes of Canon and Fujifilm. A few weeks ago, I did something different and got hold of a Leica Q3 Monochrom, a black and white only sensor camera with a permanently fixed Summilux 28 mm f/1.7 ASPH lens.

I have always been intrigued by the Leica brand and the cult following it has with some of the most iconic image makers. But I have stayed away until now. Partly because of the sheer cost and partly out of concern that outside of the craftsmanship and legacy, Leica digital cameras have been reputed to lag behind their Japanese counterparts when it comes to the functionality and sensor technology we have come to expect from as standard in a modern camera.

Fast forward to 2025 and the release of the Q3 Monochrom caught my eye. I do not know why. Maybe it was the captivation of old black and white photography and how well it stands the test of time. A raw portrayal in light and shadow. I have also rather enjoyed taking black and white images, if only intermittingly. The stunning color sensors we have access to today means I have often been lazy and ignored black and white as a medium. So, I examined the various reviews, took a depth breath, maxed out my credit card, and waited for a call from my local camera store.

I am not one to think twice about unboxing a piece of new kit, but unpacking the Q3 at home was an enjoyable experience. It was beautifully presented in its factory packaing and it came complete with a card personally signed by the Leica technician who completed the final quality inspection on the camera. When you pick up the camera for the first time, the first thing that strikes is that this is a beautifully designed and crafted tool. It is solid matte black, with grey etching and it has no trademark red Leica logo. The camera tells you it is not just an ordinary camera.

So, what is the Leica Q3 Monochrom like to use in real life? To test it, I took it with me on several dawn and evening city walks around Brisbane. I did not take any other gear apart from a tripod. The Q3 itself is wonderfully light and compact. I am used to bulky DSLR and medium format cameras and it felt great to be unencumbered by a heavy camera. Ergonomically, it is a little bit awkward to hold. The focus ring and primary adjustment wheel are difficult to access with big fingers, making it less than ideal for busy situations requiring lots of adjustments. The EVF is also several generations behind the latest Japanese cameras. On top of that, the autofocus is not the best. Admittedly, I have been spoilt by Canon and their stunning EVF and autofocus systems and Leica, with their rangefinder heritage, have never traditionally targeted these areas. The difference however is hard to ignore when you are paying such a high price.

Now for the best bit. This camera, for all its quirks, makes you stop and capture a moment. Removing all option for color, you slow down, you see light and shadow and you look for compositions. When you find that composition, the 60-megapixel sensor and the Summilux 28 mm f/1.7 ASPH lens combine to produce magic. The images that come off this camera are stunning thanks to the removal of all colour rendering elements from the senor. The dynamic range, sharpness and depth captured are beautiful. To demonstrate this, I have shared some images below, all captured in RAW .DNG format without editing or modification and using the inbuilt monochrome and Greg Williams colour palettes.

So, am I happy with the Q3 Monochrom? If I do not look at my bank account, the simple answer is yes. When I look at my camera kit, this is the camera I want to pick up and use. It is an artist's tool through and through.

Cheers,

Russell