About this Event
Join us for an exclusive afternoon at Leica Store Bellevue dedicated to the soul of rangefinder photography. We are honored to host acclaimed photographer Brandon Ruffin for an immersive session focused on the Leica M and the philosophy of "digital minimalism."
Whether you are a seasoned M-system user or curious about the legendary rangefinder experience, this event offers a rare opportunity to learn from Brandon in an intimate, hands-on setting.
Event Highlights
- Artist Talk & Workflow Deep-Dive: Brandon will share his insights on mastering the Leica M system, focusing on instinctive shooting techniques and his personal post-processing workflow for achieving timeless, cinematic imagery.
- Guided Photowalk: Through a curated photowalk on the streets of Bellevue, Brandon will provide 1-on-1 guidance, helping you refine your composition and "see" the light through the M-system lens.
- Leica Test Drive: Experience the M and a selection of legendary M-lenses firsthand. A small fleet of loaner equipment will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- SOFORT 2 Raffle: All registered attendees will be automatically entered for a chance to win a Leica SOFORT 2 instant camera.
Loaner Equipment Policy
To participate in the equipment loan program, please bring:
- A valid Government-Issued ID.
- A Credit Card to be held securely at the store for the duration of the loan.
- Note: Quantities are limited; early arrival is highly encouraged.
Reserve your spot today for this exclusive oppertunity.
About Brandon Ruffin
Brandon Ruffin (Ruff Draft) is an Oakland-based multidisciplinary artist and Leica USA Ambassador whose work explores the intersections of identity, culture, and the human experience. By utilizing the physical properties of contrasting light and color, Brandon creates evocative narratives designed to serve as a mirror for the viewer—inviting a deep dissection of who we are and who we have the potential to become.
His 2025 debut photo book, Migration Patterns (Setanta Books), was recognized by Smithsonian Magazine as one of the top ten photo books of the year, leading to a landmark solo exhibition at the Leica Gallery San Francisco in 2026. Brandon’s cinematic work has been equally celebrated; his film “Faded Requiem” was awarded Best Narrative Drama by the San Francisco International Film Awards, and he contributed as 1st AD to the award-winning short film “Strength.”
In the tech space, Brandon serves as a researcher in Computational Photography at Google, where he pushes the boundaries of AI and machine learning to evolve traditional photography. His expertise was instrumental in the development of the Pixel 6, 7, 8, 9 — the latter earning the title of “Best Smartphone” at the Global Mobile Awards.
A prominent community builder and contributor to The Guardian, Rolling Stone, and The New York Times, Brandon is a founding member of OAKSPC(Oakland Street Photography Club) and the Cameras and Coffee Club. Whether through lecturing at academic institutions or leading workshops for Apple and VSCO, he remains a central figure in the evolution of modern visual storytelling.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Leica Store Bellevue, 11111 NE 8th St, Bellevue, United States
USD 0.00
