Fuji vs Leica
Fuji X100 VI: A Leica Shooter’s Perspective
Welcome to my latest blog post, where I dive into my first impressions of the much-hyped Fuji X100 VI and compare it to my beloved Leica cameras. As a long-time Leica shooter, this might surprise you—but let me explain why I decided to give Fuji another shot. I’ve included a gallery at the very end of images I shot with the Fuji while teaching of my Vietnam photography workshop.
Fuji X100 VI shot in Sapa, Vietnam.
Why Fuji?
First, let me clear the air: I haven’t abandoned my Leica kit. My Leica M10-D remains my favorite camera for personal work, street photography, and long-term projects. However, the Fuji X100 VI intrigued me. The hype surrounding this camera was undeniable, so I decided to explore it out of curiosity.
Here’s what stood out:
Compact, lightweight design with a fixed 35mm equivalent lens.
Film emulations for easy, creative monochrome work.
Perfect for casual photography, whether walking my dogs or traveling.
Fuji X100 VI out for a stroll with my brother, my sister-in-law and their dog in Hong Kong.
Use Cases: Casual Yet Dedicated
This camera has quickly become my go-to for casual moments. It’s my "always-on-me" option for quick, focused shooting. I recently used it on a Christmas stroll in Hong Kong and found it far more satisfying than pulling out an iPhone. It's also a great secondary camera for trips like my upcoming Paris adventure.
Another key use is as a dedicated monochrome camera. While Leica’s Monochrom cameras are amazing, they’re prohibitively expensive for someone like me, who shoots black and white occasionally. The Fuji X100 VI, set to one of its monochrome film simulations, fills this gap beautifully.
Leica vs. Fuji: The Honest Comparison
Let’s be real: the X100 VI is not in the same league as a Leica.
Leica cameras, especially the M series, have a tactile heft and premium design that Fuji doesn’t quite match.
The Fuji feels more affordable and practical but lacks the luxury ergonomics of a Leica.
That said, the Fuji X100 VI won’t take better pictures than a Leica—or even a cheaper camera. A Leica enhances the shooting experience, not the results. The Fuji, however, offers an impressive balance of affordability, quality, and usability.
An overcast day stroll along the beach—normally a time I’d leave my camera behind, but I brought it along and captured some great shots for my brother.
Who Is It For?
The X100 VI slots neatly between the Ricoh GR and Leica Q series:
Ideal if you find the Ricoh too small or miss having a viewfinder.
Great for those who want Leica Q-style functionality but without the hefty price tag.
Conclusion
The Fuji X100 VI has earned its place in my kit. While it will never replace my Leica, it’s a fantastic complement for lightweight, low-stress shooting. It’s a practical choice for photographers who value portability and versatility without compromising too much on quality.
If you’re curious about Fuji, I say go for it—this camera has reminded me why I fell in love with photography in the first place.
Thanks for reading! For more content like this, don’t forget to check out my YouTube channel and photography workshops at askmott.com.
What’s your take on the Fuji X100 VI? Let me know in the comments below!
Below is a gallery of images captured with the Fuji X100 VI during a workshop in Northern Vietnam, some while casually wandering through Hanoi, and a few taken on vacation in Hong Kong over the holidays with my brother. To keep things interesting, I’ve sprinkled in a few shots taken with a Leica M10-D—see if you can spot them! Ok fine, it’s the last 5 images.
Full Youtube Episode
Fuji X100 VI or Leica? Professional photographer Justin Mott compares the Fuji X100 VI to Leica cameras, sharing real-world use cases, pros and cons, and why this compact powerhouse earned a spot in his kit. Perfect for Fuji and Leica fans in the USA!
