So, I finally did it. After years of shooting with various mirrorless systems and admiring the M-system from afar, I finally pulled the trigger on a brand-new Leica M11. It’s currently sitting on my desk, and honestly, I’m a mix of pure excitement and a little bit of 'new gear' anxiety. While the camera itself is a masterpiece, it feels a bit... naked? And considering the investment I just made, I want to make sure I’m setting myself up for the best possible experience right out of the gate.

I’ve been doing some reading, but the sheer volume of Leica accessories is overwhelming, and let’s be real—the 'Leica tax' is very real. I want to be smart about what I actually *need* for daily shooting versus what is just expensive fluff.

Firstly, handling is my biggest concern. The M11 is beautiful but feels a little slick in the hand. I’m debating between getting the official Leica Thumb Support or maybe a half-case from someone like Arte di Mano or Oberwerth. For those of you who have been shooting the M11 for a while, does the thumb grip significantly help with the balance, especially since the camera is quite light?

Secondly, I’m curious about power and protection. With that 60MP sensor, I’m worried about eating through batteries during a long day of street photography. Is a second battery an absolute must-have, or does the USB-C charging capability make it easy enough to top off on the go? Also, what’s the consensus on screen protectors? I’ve heard the rear glass is tough, but I’d hate to see a scratch on day two.

I’m trying to keep my initial accessory budget around $500-$700 if possible, though I know that doesn't go very far in the Leica world. I’m mostly focused on ergonomics and protecting the body without adding too much bulk.

For those of you who have transitioned to the M11, what were the first 2 or 3 things you bought that actually improved your shooting workflow? What should I prioritize to make this camera feel 'complete'?