Tag Archives: Leica

Leica Camera and Sharp Corporation Partner in Smartphone Photography



Leica Camera AG and Sharp Corporation announced the establishment of a long-term technology partnership and presented the first AQUOS R6 Smartphone ‘co-engineered with Leica’ for the Japanese market. Both companies are working in close collaboration in the field of optical engineering and the development of innovative solutions for the achievement of best possible imaging quality in the smartphone photography segment.

The AQUOS R6 ‘co-engineered with Leica’ has been developed exclusively for the Japanese market. This smartphone impresses with an exceptionally large 1-inch sensor. In combination with integrated Leica lens technology, this not only ensures excellent picture quality on the end-device, but also enables the production of outstanding quality prints.

Since its founding in 1912, Sharp has been responsible for continuous innovation in numerous product categories. With cutting-edge technologies and absolute commitment to highest standards of quality and design, the products manufactured by Sharp stand for best entertainment, maximum convenience and new perspectives.

For more than 100 years, the Leica brand has been synonymous with photographic excellence, best image quality and the finest German design and engineering. The company manufactures premium quality cameras and lenses and its precision tools continue to impress both professional photographers and new comers in all areas of photography. An integral part of the Leica brand culture is the diversity of activities the company undertakes for the achievement of photography – since the beginning, this long-established company has promoted both established photographers and up-and-coming young talent from around the world.


Leica Releases New Universal Zoom Lens and Launches Two Lens-And-Camera Sets



Leica Camera AG is expanding the Leica SL lens portfolio with another powerful zoom lens. The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70 f/2.8 ASPH is equally suited to reportage, travel, studio, architectural and landscape photography, as well as portraits, close-ups, and video productions. With its extensive focal range and consistently high light sensitivity of f/2.8, the new addition is the quintessence of a universal lens. Thanks to its excellent price-performance ratio, it also represents a perfect opportunity to upgrade to the SL-System. The two new lens-and-camera sets are also aimed specifically at newcomers to the SL-System, and are therefore very favorably priced.

The elaborate lens design, comprising 19 elements in 15 groups, ensures an outstanding optical performance. A total of three elements feature aspherical surfaces on both sides. Nine specialist-glass elements with anomalous partial dispersion provide excellent chromatic correction across the entire focal range. The internal focus is based on a single, light-weight lens element, and utilizes a quiet stepper motor to deliver a fast and precise autofocus. With it robust metal body and ingress protection against water spray and dust, the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70 f/2.8 ASPH can even be used in harsh environmental conditions.

The compact dimensions of the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70 f/2.8 ASHP are made possible by the absence of in-lens optical image stabilization. When the lens is mounted on the SL2 or SL2-S, the camera’s suspended image sensor provides highly effective image stabilization. This applies equally to still photography and video recordings. The aperture of the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70 f/2.8 ASHP comprises of 11 blades – facilitating a harmonious, circular bokeh. The minimum focusing distance is just 18 centimeters from the sensor plane (at the shortest focal length) and 38 centimeters (at the longest focal length) ensures exceptionally high-quality images even when shooting at close range.


Leica Camera Released APO-Summicron-M 35 f/2 ASPH Lens



With the APO-Summicron-M 35 f/2 ASPH., Leica Camera releases yet another M-lens whose optical performance can hardly be bettered. As with the successful APO-Summicron-M 50 f/2 ASPH., the designers were given just one brief: to achieve maximum imaging performance without compromise – the only difference being that this time, the lens in question has a moderate wide-angle focal length of 35 mm.

The result is a lens whose sharp detail rendition will challenge not just current, but also future image sensors; in addition, the APO-Summicron-M 35 f/2 ASPH. Is the only M-lens with a closest focusing distance of just 30 centimeters, which – in conjunction with the high light sensitivity – opens up a host of new compositional possibilities.

This exceptional performance capability is made possible by the elaborate lens design, combined with the high-precision manufacturing processes at the Leica production plant. The ten lens elements are divided into five groups; three elements feature aspherical surfaces (one of them on both sides). Six elements are made of glasses with anomalous partial dispersion, which not only reduce chromatic aberrations to almost zero, but also provide apochromatic correction – a quality that is rarely found in lenses of this focal length.

The APO-Summicron-M 35 f/2 ASPH. also delivers outstanding results at close range, thanks to a floating element that ensures a consistent performance at all distances. The focus ring has a particularly large throw of 300°, enabling precise focusing at all times despite the extended closest focusing distance. Via the rangefinder, the lens can be focused at a distance as close as 70 cm – at which point a slight resistance can be felt on the focus ring. At distances between 70 and 30 cm, the photographer can optionally focus via the camera’s display screen in Live View mode, the Visoflex electronic viewfinder, or the Leica FOTOS app.

The innovative construction of the lens hood, in combination with highly effective anti-reflective coatings, makes the APO-Summicron-M 35 f/2 ASPH. extremely resistant to any type of stray light – allowing the photographer to shoot into the sun or other sources of light. Optical flaws such as chromatic aberration and distortion are almost entirely corrected. This – together with the extremely high, edge-to-edge contrast rendition – facilitates an especially pronounced bokeh at open aperture. Seeing as the aperture is almost circular (thanks to the use of eleven blades), this effect is also retained when the lens is stopped down.

Even more than any other M-lens, the APO-Summicron-M 35 f/2 ASPH. only has to be stopped down for compositional purposes – never for exposure control. The rendition quality at the centre and edges of the image is already so outstanding that there is no scope for further improvement by stopping down. Despite its exceptional performance, the APO-Summicron-M 35 f/2 ASPH. is both compact and light-weight. With its classic reportage focal length, this is a lens for every photographic situation that can be used on any current and future model of the M series, as well as the Leica SL2 and SL2-S.


Insta360 ONE R 1-Inch Edition Available in Leica Stores Now



Leica Camera AG and Insta360 announced their strategic partnership in January 2020. The start of the partnership coincided with the launch of Insta360 ONE R, an adaptive action camera that uses a unique interchangeable camera module to combine the creative freedom of 360-degree capture with the precision and resolution of traditional single-lens shooting.

From the beginning of August 2020, interested customers have the chance to purchase Insta360 ONE R 1-Inch Edition camera in Leica Stores around the world and from the Leica Online Stores. Thanks to the 5.3 K 1-inch sensor, it enables content creators to achieve previously unrivaled image quality and dynamic range for an action camera. The action camera also features Insta360’s already familiar FlowState Stabilization.

The 5.3 K wide-angle lens can be quickly and easily exchanged for a dual-lens setup that simultaneously captures the action in all directions and unleashes a whole range of creative techniques possible only with a 360-degree field of view. The 1-inch wide-angle module for Insta360 ONE R is the first result of Leica and Insta360’s shared vision and innovative powers in an age in which cameras play a more central role in culture and communication than ever before.

An overview of the Leica Stores around the globe can be found on the Leica Camera website www.leica-camera.com in the section ‘Stores & Dealers’.


Leica Presents the New Leica M 10-R Camera



Leica presents the new Leica M 10-R, the 40-megapixel variant of its legendary rangefinder camera.

With the new Leica M10-R, Leica Camera AG introduces a high-resolution variant of the company’s legendary rangefinder camera. The M10-R’s newly developed sensor offers a resolution of over 40 megapixels, which represents a considerable increase compared to the M10. As a result, the the M10-R delivers a significantly enhanced rendition of details.

The new sensor of the M10-R opens up a host of possibilities that are unprecedented within M photography. Along with the clear visibility of even the finest details, the sensor provides extensive performance reserves for cropping and larger formats. In addition, the contrast-rich rendition of subtle structures leads to an even lower risk of moiré patterns. The M10-R is therefore well suited for landscape and architectural photography.

Despite its high resolution, the M10-R offers significantly reduced image noise as well as a wider dynamic range. The M10-R completes the Leica M10 family, which also includes the M10, M10-P, M10-D and M10 Monochrom.

The M10-R’s base sensitivity of ISO 100 and goes up to ISO 50000. The maximum exposure time has been increased to 16 minutes, enabling extraordinary night-time shots with the user of a tripod. The Leica M10-R is equipped with the same shutter as the Leica M10-P. It is not only exceptionally quiet (allowing for an unobtrusive way of working) but also operates with minimal vibration. This reduces the risk of camera shake.

The Leica M10-R is best able to reach its full potential when paired with Leica M lenses. Equally, the camera has the capacity to fully utilize the outstanding imaging performance that distinguishes this legendary lens range. Particularly in combination with the newest generation, such as the APO-Summicron-M 50 f/2 ASPH, the M10-R delivers photographs of a truly exceptional quality. At the same time, the camera emphasizes the distinctive characteristics of older M lenses cherished by photography enthusiasts all over the world.

The Leica M10-R will be delivered worldwide as of July 20, 2020.


Leica Introduces the Ettas Camera Bag



With the new Ettas camera bag, Leica Camera AG presents yet another accessory suitable for numerous Leica models. The universal shoulder bag is available in two color combinations: red-and-black, or khaki-and-black.

A specialist coating on the robust canvas fabric, along with a rubberized zipper, provides optimal splash protection. The compact bag is suitable for the Leica V-Lux, the Leica Q2, or the system camera CL, TL2 and M with a mounted lens of up to 90mm focal length.

An interior pocket with fastener accommodates additional batteries, SD cards or filters. With its broad shoulder strap, the Ettas bag provides utmost comfort while ensuring that the camera is always readily at hand. A special clip on the back of the bag provides the option of attaching your camera straight to your belt.

The new Leica Ettas Bag is available now at Leica retailers and Leica Stores worldwide.


Leica Presents D-LUX 7 Black Compact Camera



Leica Camera AG presents a new color version of the Leica D-Lux 7 compact camera. The new Leica D-Lux 7 black with a discreet black body and lens, is available now. The classic look of the compact camera makes it the perfect companion for any occasion, capturing unique moments in stunning image quality.

In its technical specifications, the Leica D-Lux black corresponds to the existing series model and impresses with the same extensive equipment package, versatile functions and intuitive operating concept. The powerful compact camera is equipped with the fast zoom lens Leica DC Vario-Summilix 10.9-34 mm f/1.7-2.8 ASPH (equivalent to 24-75 mm in 35 mm format) and, in combination with the four-thirds sensor, delivers outstanding image quality in all shooting situations. Features such as touch screen, Bluetooth or charging via USB make it an extremely flexible camera that offers photographic freedom and captures every special moment.

By simply connecting to the Leica FOTOS App, the D-Lux 7 can be remotely controlled from the smartphone to transfer the photos to iOS and Android devices. Photographers can then make use of numerous options for sharing their pictures directly in social media or after processing them with an image editing or post-processing app.

As perfect complements to the classic looks of the Leica D-Lux 7, its users can choose from a collection of equally stylish and practical accessories such as exquisite cases, high-quality carrying straps and a practical handgrip.


Leica Camera Delivers Leica S3 to Retailers



Leica Camera has delivered the latest model of its medium format system to retailers worldwide – having previously announced the development of the Leica S3 at photokina 2018. The outstanding excellence of the Leica S and its lenses is rooted in a well thought-out system in which every component represents an integral element of the recording process.

In addition to the most obvious improvement – an increase in resolution from 37.5 to 65 megapixels – the medium format camera features a number of technological advances. Just like its predecessors, the Leica S3 also utilizes the Leica ProFormat developed especially for the Leica S-System.

With its dimensions of 30 x 45 millimeters, it corresponds to the classic 3:2 aspect ratio of the 35 mm full-frame format, but offers a 56 percent larger sensor area. In comparison with its predecessor, the new 64 megapixel sensor developed exclusively for Leica offers a 71 percent increase in resolution, a dynamic range of 15 f-stops and a maximum ISO sensitivity setting of 50000 – thereby providing sufficient reserves to be ready to handle any imaginable lighting situation and fully exploit the strengths of the medium format.

Subjects can be composed in the large and bright SLR viewfinder, focused sharply with the fast and reliable autofocus and captured at a continuous shooting rate of three frames per second. In addition to all other essential exposure settings, an electronic levelling aid (horizon) can also be displayed in the viewfinder.

Whenever required, the LCD screen displays a Live-View image with a refresh rate of up to 60 fps is available in both still picture and video recording mode that also allows focus peaking, brightness and exposure data, a clipping warning, grids, and a histogram to be superimposed onto the image.

As with other members of the Leica S – System, the Leica S3 is constructed using superior-quality and extremely resilient materials: examples include the magnesium body, the Corning Gorilla Glass cover plate of the 3-inch monitor screen as well as the lens bayonet, which is made from particularly solid stainless steel.

Furthermore, the numerous seals that protect the camera against the ingress of moisture, dust, and other foreign bodies contribute to the reliability and long service life of the camera when shooting on location.


Leica Camera AG Introduces New Variant and Two New Lenses for Leica M



Leica Camera AG presents three new lenses for the Leica M-System: the silver anodized APO-Summicron-M 75 f/2 ASPH as well as the limited-edition Summicron-M 90 f/2 ASPH in an olive green “Safari” finish. The technical specifications of the three new lenses are identical to those of their serially produced counterparts. All three lenses are available from the end of Feburary.

The APO-Summicron-M 75 f/2 ASPH counts among the most high-performing lenses for Leica M, and is particularly well suited to portrait photography. Now the lens is also available in a silver anodized finish which perfectly emphasizes its sophisticated design. In contrast to the black-paint variant, the feet markings on the distance scale as well as the focal length engravings are inlaid in red, while all other engravings feature black inlays.

In addition, Leica are producing a limited run of the special-edition Summicron-M 28 f/2 ASPH and APO-Summicron-M 90 f/2 ASPH with a special, olive green paint finish. Both “Safari”-edition lenses feature red inlaid feet markings on the distance scale and red focal length markings, while all other engravings are inlaid in white – creating a pleasing juxtaposition with the olive green lens body.

Aside from the Leica Summicron-M 50 f/2 released in 2019, the new Summicrom-M 28 f/2 ASPH and APO-Summicron-M 90 f/2 ASPH are the only M lenses to perfectly match the olive green finish of the Leica M10-P Edition “Safari” – thereby turning the camera into the centerpiece of an appealing collection. The Summicron-M 28 f/2 ASPH Edition “Safari” is produced in a limited run of 500 units; the APO-Summicron-M 90 f/2 ASPH Edition “Safari” is limited to 250 units.


Leica M10-P White – A New Color Option



Available now, the Leica M10-P White is a new color option of the iconic Leica rangefinder camera. The all-white design of the current M10-P camera takes its cue from the extremely popular Leica M8 White Edition released in 2009. The top and bottom plates are finished in white paint and are color matched with the camera’s high-quality, genuine leather trim in white. Silver control elements with engravings picked out in white ideally complement the design concept of the Leica M10-P White.

The Leica M10-P White comes as a set with a silver chrome version of the Summilux-50 mm f/1.4 ASPH lens. The engravings on the lens are also picked out in white to match those of the camera. A genuine leather carrying strap in white with Leica embossing and a white leather case for the lens round off the set. The set is available in a worldwide limited edition of only 350 examples. All Leica M10-P White cameras have their own unique serial number.

The technical specifications of both camera and lens are identical to those of the standard models. Particularly discreet and concentrating entirely on the most essential camera functions, the Leica M10-P embodies the essence of the M-Philosophy. The outstanding feature is the extremely low noise level of its shutter and the quietist shutter capturing authentic photographs from the heart of life itself.

With its handling concept, the Leica M10-P fulfills everything that discerning photographers expect from a Leica M and, in this traditional concentration on essential functions, follows the lead of all past and present Leica M-Cameras.