Photographer Tomer Vaknin Defends the Leica M9 Monochrom as a Tool for Seeing
In a personal essay on PetaPixel, street photographer Tomer Vaknin explains why he regularly chooses the 14-year-old Leica M9 Monochrom over his newer Leica M10-R and M11-P. He praises the Kodak-made CCD sensor for its tactile, organic rendering of light and unique micro-contrast. Despite being known for color photography, Vaknin finds that the monochrome limitation forces him to slow down and improve his composition. He describes the post-processing experience as lean and demanding, requiring less manipulation than modern sensors. Vaknin embraces the camera's obsolescence, stating it helps him stop chasing perfection and focus on the moment. The essay reflects on the paradox of losing color to gain a stronger sense of composition.
Key facts
- Tomer Vaknin is a street photographer.
- He regularly uses a Leica M9 Monochrom over newer Leica models.
- The M9 Monochrom has a Kodak-made CCD sensor.
- Vaknin is known for color photography.
- He finds the monochrome limitation improves his composition.
- The camera's files require less post-processing than modern sensors.
- Vaknin embraces the camera's obsolescence.
- The article was published on PetaPixel on June 21, 2026.
Entities
Artists
- Tomer Vaknin
Institutions
- PetaPixel
- Leica
- Kodak
- KEH.com
- Moment
- FJ Westcott
- Blue Moon Camera and Machine