Leica · 35mm film
Leica M6
The original M6 combines a mechanical shutter with a built-in light meter. You focus through the rangefinder and set exposure by hand. Leica revived the model in 2022, 38 years after its debut.
Find this camera
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Is it your kind of camera?
For someone who wants to focus through a rangefinder and set exposure by hand.
Align the rangefinder patch to focus. The built-in meter helps you choose aperture and shutter speed.
Keep in mind The viewfinder does not show the image through the taking lens. Close framing needs attention to parallax.
Compare this camera- Maker
- Leica
- Model
- M6
- Film format
- 35mm
- Camera type
- Rangefinder
- Exposure
- Manual
- Shutter
- Mechanical
- Battery
- Meter only, shutter works without it
- In the gallery
- 3 sample photos
- Camera source
- View specifications ↗
Photographs made with the Leica M6
The film, lens, exposure, developing, and scanning all influence the image. Select a photo for a closer look and its full credits.
Your first roll
The lens, power requirements and film to get started with this model.
- Lens
- Voigtlander Color-Skopar 35mm f/2.5 VM, Leica M mount
Choose the M-bayonet version for the M6. The similarly named screw-mount lens needs an adapter.
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- Power
- Meter batteries only; the mechanical shutter works without them
Check the exact M6 version’s battery requirements and have rangefinder alignment tested.
- Film
- Kodak Gold 200, 35mm, 36 exposures
36 full-frame photographs per roll. A film lab can develop the roll and scan your photographs.
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Practise focusing on subjects at several distances before loading film. Use the meter and take an outdoor test roll while the seller’s return window is open.
How to load your first roll
