What are the must-have accessories for a new Leica M11?

Question

I just spent way too much money on this Leica M11 at the shop in SoHo and honestly I am kind of panicking now because I feel like I am gonna drop it or scratch it immediately. I spent almost my whole budget on the camera and one lens so I only have like $250 left for extras and I have no clue what is actually important.

Do I need a thumb grip? Someone mentioned a half case but they are so expensive. I'm so confused by all these posts talking about soft releases and stuff. I just want to make sure I dont ruin it before my trip to Italy next week. What are the actual must-have things for a total beginner?

Ivy Pearl Allen · Accepted Answer

I've spent quite a bit of time with the M system and usually suggest prioritizing handling over aesthetics. Since you are heading to Italy, you want the camera to feel secure without adding unnecessary bulk or cost.

Haoge THB-M11B Thumb Up Grip is a solid metal option that provides an anchor point for your thumb. It makes the camera feel much more secure when you are shooting one-handed in crowds.

B+W 39mm 010 UV Haze MRC Nano Filter is basically insurance for your lens. It is way easier to wipe dust or fingerprints off a filter than the actual glass.

SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-II Card is technically necessary for the M11 because the high-res files will cause lag on slower cards. Soft releases look cool but they often snag on camera bags. Stick to the grip and a filter so you dont have to worry as much while you are traveling.

Atticus Benjamin Clark · Answer

Make sure to grab a Leica Screen Protector for M11 immediately. I would suggest a Peak Design Slide Lite Camera Strap Black too because honestly dropping that camera would be a nightmare.

Ezra Thomas Cook · Answer

Re: "I've spent quite a bit of time with..."

I actually disagree about the thumb grip being a must-have right away. I have been shooting with the M11 since launch and I am perfectly happy with the naked grip. Plus, it just gets in the way if you ever want to use an external viewfinder later. Since you are on a tight budget after that SoHo splurge, you should really focus on utility for your Italy trip instead of just ergonomic add-ons. Honestly, the M11 is a power hog if you use the screen or live view a lot. I would skip the expensive leather brands and grab these things to stay under that $250 limit:

Leica BP-SCL7 Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery

You absolutely need a second one for travel. Running out of juice in a foreign city is the worst.

TP Original Leather Half Case for Leica M11

This is way cheaper than the official one and protects the bottom and sides from scratches perfectly. I have used mine for a year and it works well with no complaints.

Giottos Rocket Air Blaster Large

Dust on the sensor is a real thing when you are swapping lenses in dusty piazzas. I have been very satisfied with the TP case tho because it gives you just enough of a lip to hold onto so you dont feel like it is gonna slip out of your hand. Save the rest of your cash for some good pasta and wine in Rome. You will be way more satisfied having a spare battery than a fancy thumb rest when the sun is setting over the Colosseum and your camera dies.