We Tested Out Leica’s New M11-D Camera—Here Are 3 Photos We Took With It

Robb Rice
·3-min read

Since 1954, the Leica M has been a testament to the enduring appeal of simplicity in photography, eschewing many technological advancements that have become commonplace in contemporary cameras. Even the first digital version of the model, in 2006, had no autofocus, no video capabilities, and no superfluous dials or buttons. True to form, Leica’s new digital M11-D further embraces this ethos by removing the rear display screen altogether, replacing it with a large ISO dial.

The stark minimalism of this camera gives the photographer more autonomy, rewarding their instincts, knowledge of light and composition, and the seemingly lost art of mentally visualizing the final image before releasing the shutter. Without a screen, there’s no safety net of instant feedback, no temptation to endlessly review and refine. (The Leica Fotos app provides a cheat of sorts, turning your phone into a monitor via a combination of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.) Is it an ideal camera for novices? No. The learning curve is also initially steep for anyone who has never shot with film, but stay with it and the M11-D will not just demand but also reward your full attention and engagement.

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With no rear display, the ,395 Leica M11-D pairs the convenience of digital photography with a film camera’s approach to the craft. - Credit: Courtesy of Leica
With no rear display, the ,395 Leica M11-D pairs the convenience of digital photography with a film camera’s approach to the craft. - Credit: Courtesy of Leica

Courtesy of Leica

To be expected from any full-frame Leica, the M11-D delivers stunning image quality with a resolution that can be set at either 18, 36, or 60 megapixels. Continuous shooting is possible at up to 4.5 frames per second—thanks to a 3 GB cache—and an ISO range of 64 to 50,000 ensures optimal low-light performance. Importantly, users have the ability to pair the body with almost any fixed-focal-length M lens that Leica has produced in the past 70 years.

We chose a 35 mm Summilux lens and shot a variety of subjects in a range of situations, all the while feeling more present in the moment and able to compose with greater intent. It’s not a question of what is lost without a screen but of what is gained. We found that to be a deeper appreciation for the process. Without looking at the last photo you’ve taken, you’re forced to commit to decisions and reconnect with the fundamental elements of photography. The Leica M11-D is a reminder that the simplest tools can lead to the most profound experiences.

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The Long Beach Junior Crew’s practice as viewed from Davies Bridge in Long Beach, Calif.

The Long Beach Junior Crew’s practice as viewed from Davies Bridge in Long Beach, Calif.
The Long Beach Junior Crew’s practice as viewed from Davies Bridge in Long Beach, Calif.

Lens: Summilux-M 35 MM
Settings: F/6.8, ISO 400, 1/1000 SEC
Time of Day: 4:45 p.m. PT

A 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RSR “R7” showcased during the 2024 Luftgekühlt exhibition at Universal Studios Hollywood

A 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RSR “R7” showcased during the 2024 Luftgekühlt exhibition at Universal Studios Hollywood
A 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RSR “R7” showcased during the 2024 Luftgekühlt exhibition at Universal Studios Hollywood

Lens: Summilux-M 35 MM
Settings: F/16, ISO 1600, 1/1000 SEC
Time of Day: 8:30 a.m. PT

Model Jaelei at Mugu Rock in Malibu, Calif.

Model Jaelei at Mugu Rock in Malibu, Calif.
Model Jaelei at Mugu Rock in Malibu, Calif.

Lens: Summilux-M 35 MM
Settings: F/11, ISO 400, 1/125 SEC
Time of Day: 5 p.m. PT

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