The Leica Q3 Is Finally What It Should Have Been | Firmware 4.0 Revisit (2026)

This is not a review. This is a revisit. I came back to the Leica Q3 in 2026 because firmware 4.0 genuinely changed how this camera feels in real-world use. What was once a good camera has quietly become the camera it should have been from the start. In this video, I revisit the Q3 after extended use and after shooting with other systems including the Leica M and the Leica SL2. Just like the SL2 firmware 2.0 update was transformative, firmware 4.0 for the Q3 finally brings autofocus, usability, and responsiveness to where they needed to be. I walk through: • Autofocus improvements and real-world reliability • UI changes and what we gained and lost • Why the rear LCD is still not perfect • How I work around it by shooting JPEG + DNG • Using the Greg Williams profile for beautiful monochrome reference • Why locking 5500K keeps my workflow consistent • The difference between BP-SCL4 and BP-SCL6 batteries and why it matters The 28mm f1.7 Summilux remains the heart of this camera. Sharp, characterful, and deeply enjoyable to use. If Leica continues refining the Q3’s DNG rendering and small quirks, this could quietly become one of the most complete full-frame fixed-lens cameras available. This is about lived experience. Not rankings. Not hype. Just perspective. AUDIIO MUSIC & SFX The music & SFX I use: Audiio Pro. Get 70% off your first year with my link below and use code SAVE70 at checkout. https://audiio.com/partner?oid=1&affi... DEHANCER COLOUR WORKFLOW I use Dehancer for film emulation and to shape the final color in my images and video. If you’d like to try it, use code HSS1 for 10% off: https://www.dehancer.com/ LINKS Follow my work, explore more, or reach out here: https://linktr.ee/hotshotstudio01 RICEBALL PHOTOGRAPHY Much of my gear is sourced and tested through Riceball Photo in Peninsula Plaza, Singapore. A trusted store for photographers who value thoughtful equipment and honest advice. https://riceball.sg/ https://www.instagram.com/riceballpho... #LeicaQ3 #LeicaQ32026 #LeicaFirmware40 #LeicaPhotography #FullFrameCamera #CompactCamera #PhotographyWorkflow #RealWorldPhotography #HotshotStudio #dehancer #Audiio