Updated April 2026: Over the years, I’ve photographed more than 500 weddings using Leica cameras, beginning with the M9 and M(240). This post, however, isn’t about reviewing gear. Rather, I want to share how working with Leica has influenced my approach and mindset as a photographer. It has changed the way I see, connect with, and capture moments—and perhaps even contributed to my growth as an artist.
Leica cameras are small and unimposing, which helps me work quietly and blend into the background rather than stand out as the photographer. Like a street photographer, I aim to capture real moments without interrupting the day. Many couples like this style and appreciate that I don’t direct their celebrations. Using Leica has taught me to be patient and observant, both in taking photos and in how I interact during the wedding.
I’ve been a photographer for over 30 years and have always been interested in Leica’s history. When I first tried a Leica six years ago, I knew I had to find a way to get one without spending too much. I talked it over with my wife before buying it. My first Leica was the M9 with a 35mm f1.4 Summilux, and I was hooked right away. After more than 500 weddings, the M10R and Leica M11 have become key parts of my kit, along with a few lenses. I also have a 1957 M3. I also utilize the wonderful Q3 43, the M EV1 depending on the type of shoots.
When I photograph weddings, I try to anticipate and respond to moments as they happen. I take a few group shots, but I mainly focus on capturing the day in a natural way and avoiding typical wedding clichés. The small Leica camera often goes unnoticed, which helps me blend in and work quietly. Unlike bigger cameras that attract attention, the Leica lets me keep a low profile. Still, having the right body language is just as important for staying unobtrusive.
I use a rangefinder for several reasons. Besides Leica’s history and inspiration, it has helped me see things I might have missed before. I believe my photos are stronger because of this. Using manual focus and simple controls for shutter and aperture gives me full control over my images. In fact, I can usually focus faster by hand than with autofocus.
If I make a mistake, I can’t blame the camera. It’s important to control the aperture and shutter myself. I try to picture the image I want before I take it, rather than just reacting, as I did with a DSLR. With a DSLR, the shutter closing can make you miss a shot. With a rangefinder, I don’t miss much, except sometimes my finger doesn’t keep up with my brain.
I rarely look at my photos right after taking them, except sometimes to check the histogram. Most of the time, I picture the shot in my mind before pressing the shutter, so I can shoot with intention instead of taking lots of quick shots. Leica cameras aren’t made for high-speed shooting; they encourage a careful, thoughtful style. With practice, this way of working feels natural. Recently, a wedding client who also loves Leica told me they noticed how quickly I could focus and capture moments, without filling up memory cards with extra shots.
Fast-forward to 2026, and I photograph a whole wedding day with just two Leica cameras, an M11 and an M10R, using only available light. This light and flexible setup is easy on my back and lets me move quickly during the event. I’ve always admired Henri Cartier-Bresson, who used Leica cameras and a 50mm lens. His graceful way of moving through scenes has inspired how I work.
Today, there are many great rangefinder-style cameras to choose from, many more than a few years ago. In the end, the image is what matters most, not the gear. Still, the right tools can inspire us to do better work. For me, Leica’s lenses and small cameras give me that spark, helping me focus on my subjects and the important moments instead of getting lost in menus and settings.
Here are some photos from 2014 through to 2026 taken with a Leica M (240), M9, M10, M10R and M11. More here on my resources page for photographers.
2 responses to “500 Leica M weddings by Leica Photographer Philip Thomas”
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Simon – They are great. I recommend to get a used M10 – the first version or the M10-P / M10-R – even better and incorporate into you work flow.
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That’s a lovely collection of photographs. Really tempted by the Leica way of working
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