Jack, I still prefer to use a GND filter. The less time I spend in front of the computer means more time in the field, which is the part I enjoy the most about Nature/Landscape photography. Somewhat akin to your exposure compositing, I used to do something similar when I was shooting with a 1DsMII. I would composite DOF. Focus the foreground, midground, and background and expose each at f/8, then layer in PS and mask off the OOF region in each layer. The advantage of course is that you can use the sweet spot of the lens for optimal resolution. But what a PITA it became for post-acquistion processing. Then I realized I could get all the DOF I would ever need by shooting 4x5. And the increase in image quality even from a "lowly" Imacon scan left the 1DsMII in the dust. Actually, come to think of it, since switching back to film and outsourcing all of my scanning, I spend FAR LESS TIME IN FRONT OF THE COMPUTER and more time IN THE FIELD.
I can print the M8 files to 16x24 and they look excellent
That is a pretty impressive claim for a 10 MP camera. I've done a lot of printing for my clients that shoot 10 MP (Nikon/Canon) and even with the best zoom lenses, 16 x 24 is pushing it, even up-rezzing with Genuine Fractals. I always suspected the glass was the problem and likely explains why the M8 does so well. However, I still believe the small footprint and focussing accuracy of the Leica M relegates it to reportage and the view camera to landscape. Horses for courses. Having said this, I would probably snap a landscape image or two just for fun if I get an M8. But for serious landscape work, it would be 4x5.
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