Street photographer Jesse Marlow tests out the new Leica Q2

Following the release of the new Leica Q2 camera, Leica Camera Australia and Melbourne-based street photographer Jesse Marlow set off for Japan – one of the world’s most fast-paced environments, to slow down and observe.

Over six days, the internationally renowned photographer explored the lesser-known parts of Tokyo and Kyoto, Leica Q2 in hand, to capture his signature style of imagery.

The resultant 18-piece photo collection ‘Tokyo: Waiting’ was unveiled to VIP guests during intimate viewing events in Melbourne and Sydney this month.

Jesse Marlow at the ‘Tokyo: Waiting’ exhibition in Sydney

"For as long as I can remember, Japan, and in particular Tokyo, is a place I’ve dreamt of exploring," Jesse explains. "From a distance, it’s always seemed so familiar yet so foreign, so serene yet so frenetic, and this contrast has always intrigued me.

"The challenge for me as a photographer, was to try and discover my own version of this iconic land."

Having used Leica cameras for the past 20 years, Jesse was eager to see how the new Q2 compared against his current Q model.

"Spending six days exploring the streets of Tokyo and Kyoto with the Leica Q2 proved the ideal backdrop for my ongoing search for bold colour, graphic compositions and reflective moments," he notes.

Jesse’s photographic process and craft was captured into an artistically directed short film, produced by Chris Hopkins, Creative Director and Co-Founder of Melbourne-based creative agency Lost Art.

"I was shooting from sunrise until midnight every day, and the Q2’s battery never once failed me," Jesse continues. "By the end of the six-day trip, I’d taken 3,000–4,000 photos and the camera didn’t disappoint."

Representing the next generation of the popular Leica Q, the Leica Q2 boasts a newly developed 47.3-megapixel full-frame sensor, a Summilux 28 mm f/1.7 ASPH prime lens and innovative OLED technology.

The compact camera incorporates special weather sealing to protect against dust and water spray, making it the only model in its class that can stand up to even the most unfavourable weather conditions.

‘Toyko: Waiting’ will be on public display over the coming months, with location details to be announced soon. In the meantime, you can view the collection online.

Discover more about the new Leica Q2 here.