Search the Community

Press release: The new Leica M11 – A Legend reinvented. Wetzlar, January 13th 2022. The new Leica M11 combines the experience of traditional rangefinder photography with contemporary camera technology, delivering maximum flexibility to every photographer. Featuring an exclusive triple resolution sensor, expanded ISO range, dual memory options, extended battery life and a streamlined and intuitive menu system; the Leica M11 represents a new benchmark in digital photography as the most flexible M-System camera in Leica’s history. At the heart of the M11 is a full-frame BSI CMOS sensor with Triple Resolution Technology. Raw image files in DNG and JPEG format can be recorded at 60, 36 or 18 megapixels, always using the full sensor area. The 60-megapixel option delivers unprecedented image quality and detail resolution, utilizing the full optical potential of Leica’s latest APO Lenses for the M-System – whereas the lower resolutions enable faster camera performance, extended burst lengths, and smaller files. A special IR + UV cut filter comprised of two extremely thin, cemented layers of glass, achieves an especially effective correction of even the most oblique rays of incident light. With a new color filter array, the camera also offers an improved, more natural color reproduction. While maintaining the iconic look of a traditional Leica M, the carefully optimized design of the Leica M11 is focused on efficiency and ergonomics. The controls have been arranged in a unique layout next to the 2.3 million pixels high-resolution touchscreen. The menu structure of the M11 remains consistent with the Leica SL2 and Q2, unifying the acclaimed interface for a more user-friendly experience. The Leica M11 has a sensitivity range of ISO 64 to 50,000; it records at 14-bit color depth and has a dynamic range of up to 15 stops. With its Maestro III processor, the Leica M11 offers a fluid and responsive operation, even at the highest resolution and image quality settings. With the optional electronic shutter featuring a shutter speed of up to 1/16,000 of a second, photographers are empowered to work with wide open apertures, in bright light, without ND filters. The M11 marks the first-time multi-field metering in rangefinder mode will be available, offering photographers a valuable tool to curate light. The black-finish variant of the Leica M11 features a top plate made of high-quality aluminum with a scratch-resistant coating. As a result, the body is approximately 20% (100 grams) lighter than its silver-chrome counterpart. By comparison, the silver- chrome M11 features a classic brass top plate and weighs 640 grams. The deliberate omission of the traditional base plate is unique to the M11, offering photographers direct access to the battery and SD card. In addition to the SD card slot, the Leica M11 is equipped with a generous internal storage capacity of 64 gigabytes. This makes the M11 the first M model to save image files simultaneously onto two different storage media. The 1800mAh battery stores 64% more power than before, and combined with the camera’s more efficient operation, allows for considerably longer shooting sessions with a single charge. Additionally, the newly added universal USB-C port also serves to charge the camera’s battery, using most USB-C chargers. Upgraded connectivity features for the Leica M11 will be available through a new firmware version in the second half of 2022. This will enable the new M11’s advanced connectivity capabilities which will elevate users' mobile workflows and enhance the Leica FOTOS app with the possibility to embed location data, access images via Bluetooth connection, and allow increased transfer rates. The M11 is compatible with Apple products and accessories and offers unique abilities with the included Leica FOTOS cable. With the evolution of the Leica M comes new accessories to enhance the rangefinder experience. The new Visoflex 2 electronic viewfinder features a 3.7-megapixel resolution display to provide outstanding image control in Live View mode. Encased in a metal exterior, the Visoflex 2 perfectly matches the M11 in terms of design and functionality. Full-frame viewing and the precise focusing of Leica lenses is supported by the Visoflex 2’s large diopter adjustment range of -4 to +3- and 90-degree tilt function. To improve ergonomics without obstructing access to the battery and SD card, photographers will have the option to complement their M11 with a newly designed handgrip. The new handgrip doubles as a tripod mount, where the Leica M11 can be attached to Arca-Swiss-standard tripod heads without the need for any additional equipment. Leica M11: Witness the Future “We are very proud of the new M11,” says Stefan Daniel, Executive Vice President Technology and Operations. “This camera is another milestone for Leica. Its inner workings are a completely new development, while the exterior remains true to the iconic Leica M design.” “As we all know,” says Dr. Andreas Kaufmann, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Leica Camera AG, Wetzlar, “the iconic Leica M-System has accompanied dedicated photographers worldwide over decades, giving them a superior tool for witnessing their time and creating outstanding pictures. The new M11 will continue this legacy with outstanding technology, based on our experience developing cameras since 1925.

Press Release: Carry Small, Capture Wide” A New Micro Four Thirds 18mm* Ultra-Wide Angle Lens with F1.7 Large Aperture LEICA DG SUMMILUX 9mm F1.7 ASPH. (H-X09) *35mm camera equivalent Newark, NJ (May 17, 2022) – Panasonic is pleased to introduce a new large-aperture ultra-wide fixed focal length lens, the LEICA DG SUMMILUX 9mm F1.7 (35mm camera equivalent: 18mm) for the LUMIX G Series based on the Micro Four Thirds standard. The LEICA DG SUMMILUX 9mm (H-X09) is an ultra-wide-angle lens with a large aperture, as well as an unparalleled lens that features an exceptionally short focusing distance of 0.095m (3.7 inches) with an outstanding magnification ratio of 0.25x (35mm camera equivalent: 0.5x). The combination of these lenses makes it possible to distinguish the subject’s presence against the background. It also boasts high descriptive performance and smooth, beautiful bokeh, clearing the stringent LEICA standards, and is suitable for use by professionals and high amateur users for both photo shooting and video recording. The LEICA DG SUMMILUX 9mm F1.7 comprises 12 lens elements in nine groups including two aspherical lenses: two ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) lenses and one UHR (Ultra High Refractive Index) lens to effectively suppress axial chromatic aberration and chromatic aberration of magnification. Astigmatism is also corrected with these aspherical lenses, achieving high resolving performance. Furthermore, a Ultra-High Refractive Index (UHR) lens achieves uniform quality from the center to edges of the image while downsizing the lens unit. The LEICA DG SUMMILUX 9mm F1.7 is capable of smooth, silent operation, complementing the camera’s high-speed, high-precision contrast AF system with the sensor drive at max.240 fps. For the non-linear setting, focus is shifted with a variable amount according to the rotation speed of the focus ring while focus is shifted with a designated amount according to the rotational quantum of the focus ring for the linear setting. Sensitivity (the amount of focus shift per rotational quantum) can be selected from 90 to 360 degrees1 by 30 degrees to enable intended focus operation. The LEICA DG SUMMILUX 9mm F1.7 also excels in video recording performance with a mechanism that suppresses focus breathing, which was a fatal problem of all interchangeable lenses designed for still image photography. Together with a micro-step aperture control for smooth exposure change, professional quality video can be recorded. With its approximately 130g (4.5 ounces) compact size and light weight, the LEICA DG SUMMILUX 9mm F1.7 features stunning mobility characteristic of a Micro Four Thirds system. The rugged dust/splash-resistant2 design of the lens can withstand high mobility and harsh conditions, including frigid temperatures at 10 degrees below zero. The filter diameter is 55 mm, with a 7-blade circular aperture diaphragm. Panasonic is committed to the development of the Micro Four Thirds lenses to further expand its lineup in order to fulfill the needs of customers. The LEICA DG SUMMILUX 9mm F1.7 will be available at valued channel partners for $499.99 in late July. 1 90 to 1080 degrees when used with DC-GH6, as of May, 2022 2 Dust and Splash Resistant does not guarantee that damage will not occur if this lens is subjected to direct contact with dust and water. *Design and specifications are subject to change without notice. Panasonic Leica Summilux 9mm F1.7 ASPH specifications: Principal specifications Lens type - Prime lens Max Format size - FourThirds Focal length - 9 mm Image stabilization - No Lens mount - Micro Four Thirds Aperture Maximum aperture - F1.7 Minimum aperture - F16 Aperture ring - No Number of diaphragm blades - 7 Aperture notes - circular diaphragm Optics Elements - 12 Groups - 9 Special elements / coatings - 2 aspherical, 2 ED, 1 Ultra-high refractive index Focus Minimum focus - 0.10 m (3.74″) Maximum magnification - 0.25× Autofocus - Yes Motor type - Micromotor Full time manual - No Focus method - Internal Distance scale - No DoF scale - No Physical Weight - 130 g (0.29 lb) Diameter - 61 mm (2.4″) Length - 52 mm (2.05″) Sealing - Yes Colour - Black Filter thread - 55 mm Hood supplied - Yes Tripod collar - No

Press release: Panasonic Introduces New Full-range F1.7 Telephoto Zoom Digital Interchangeable Lens for Mirrorless Cameras. The LEICA DG VARIO-SUMMILUX 25-50mm / F1.7 ASPH. (H-X2550) is versatile for photography and videography. Newark, NJ (July 7, 2021) - Panasonic is proud to introduce a new telephoto zoom digital interchangeable lens, the LEICA DG VARIO-SUMMILUX 25-50mm / F1.7 ASPH. (H-X2550), which boasts a large F1.7 aperture throughout the entire 50-100mm (35mm camera equivalent) zoom range with exceptionally high optical performance clearing the stringent LEICA standards. The LEICA DG VARIO-SUMMILUX 25-50mm / F1.7 ASPH. excels at both photo shooting and video recording, satisfying professional photographers and videographers alike. The new LEICA DG VARIO-SUMMILUX 25-50mm / F1.7 ASPH. (H-X2550) is been designed to be paired with with the LEICA DG VARIO-SUMMILUX 10-25mm / F1.7 ASPH. (H-X1025), a currently available lens which has been highly acclaimed by creators. They both feature the full-range F1.7 high-speed aperture that provides beautiful bokeh and high descriptiveness. The two lenses cover a focusing distance from wide angle to telephoto, functioning as eight fixed focal length lenses (20mm / 24mm / 28mm / 35mm / 50mm / 75mm / 85mm / 100mm, 35mm camera equivalent) providing the same or an even higher level of descriptiveness than a fixed focal length lens can offer. They have common aperture, high descriptive performance, shape and operability, enabling creators to produce their own unique image product using these two lenses with minimal workflow. Comprising 16 elements in 11 groups, the lens system features an aspherical lens and three Extra-low Dispersion (ED) lenses that effectively suppress the axial chromatic aberration and chromatic aberration of magnification. Spherical aberration and distortion are also corrected by the aspherical lenses for stunningly high resolution. The use of aspherical lenses and the optimum design of the lens system results in a compact size and light weight while still achieving outstanding optical performance. Compatibility with a maximum 240-fps high-speed sensor drive realizes high-speed, high-precision auto focusing. In addition to the silent operation achieved by the inner focus drive system, the stepless aperture ring and micro-step drive system in the aperture control section help the camera to smoothly catch up to brightness changes when zooming or panning. The optical design achieves exceptional barycentric stability to minimize image shifts during zooming. A focus ring is equipped for intuitive, precise focusing and linear/ non-linear setting can also be switched with this ring. The LEICA DG VARIO-SUMMILUX 25-50mm / F1.7 ASPH. also excels in video recording performance with a mechanism that suppresses focus breathing at entire zoom range. The LEICA DG VARIO-SUMMILUX 25-50mm / F1.7 ASPH. boasts minimum focusing distance of 0.28m (at wide end, 0.31m at tele end) and the maximum magnification ratio of 0.42x (35mm camera equivalent) for superior macro photography. The rugged dust/splash-resistant* design for high mobility withstands use under harsh conditions even in 10 degrees below zero. Filter diameter is in 77mm. The LEICA DG VARIO-SUMMILUX 25-50mm / F1.7 ASPH. (H-X2550) will be available at valued channel partners for $1,799.99 at the end of August. *Dust and Splash Resistant does not guarantee that damage will not occur if this lens is subjected to direct contact with dust and water.

Press release: Leica Releases A New, Universal SL Zoom Lens and Two Bundles Perfect for SL-System Newcomers. May 6, 2021 - Leica Camera is expanding the Leica SL lens portfolio with another versatile zoom lens, also launching in two new bundle options with the SL2 and SL2-S. The Leica Vario-Elmarit - SL 24 - 70 f/2.8 ASPH. is the ideal lens with broad appeal for any photographer given its ability to equally capture reportage, travel, studio, architectural and landscape photography, as well as portraits, close-ups, and video content. With its extensive focal range, consistent maximum aperture of f/2.8, and vast scope of uses, this new addition is a shining example of a lens that can be enjoyed by professionals, enthusiasts and first-time SL-System adopters alike. As a bundle option with the SL2 and SL2-S, the SL-System now becomes an even more viable option for all kinds of users to realize their creative passions. The elaborate Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70 f/2.8 ASPH. lens design ensures an outstanding optical performance as it is comprised of 19 elements in 15 groups, featuring three elements with aspherical surfaces on both sides. This sophisticated lens also offers an outstanding ability to provide correction of chromatic aberrations across the entire focal range, resulting in a crisp photograph no matter where you zoom. The internal focusing is based on a single, lightweight lens element, and utilizes a silent stepper motor to deliver a fast and precise autofocus. In addition to its lightweight design, the metal body and weather sealing make the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24–70 f/2.8 ASPH durable in any environment, ultimately making it suited for even the rigors of outdoor landscape and adventure photographers or the hustle and bustle of a pro wedding photographer. The compact dimensions of the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24–70 f/2.8 ASPH. are made possible by the omission of in-lens optical image stabilization. When the lens is mounted on the SL2 or SL2-S, the camera’s stabilized image sensor steps up to the task with highly effective image stabilization while affording the lens its smaller size and lower weight. This makes the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24–70 f/2.8 ASPH. the ultimate tool for both still photography in low-light and video recordings with rock-solid dynamic camera movements. The aperture of the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24–70 f/2.8 ASPH. comprises 11 blades that create a consistently lovely, circular bokeh to make subjects stand out and pop from the background, while its minimum focusing distance ensures exceptionally high-quality images even when shooting at close range. From near to far, low-light to broad sunlight, portraits to fast action, 24 to 70 mm, the new addition to the L-Mount portfolio enables photographers to capture any kind of photo with top-level sharpness and the Leica look. Supplementing the launch of the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70 f/2.8 ASPH. lens are two camera and lens bundles, offering the latest of the SL-System at a more approachable price when purchased as a set. Choose either the high-megapixel flagship SL2 or the jack-of-all-trades hybrid SL2-S along with the new 24-70 lens for an even further value proposition, enabling photographers or videographers to pursue their path to creative freedom. The new Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24–70 f/2.8 ASPH. is available to order today at Leica Stores, Boutiques and Dealers for $2,795. The SL2 and SL2-S camera bundles coupled with the new 24-70 are priced at $8,795 and $7,195 respectively – representing a savings of $595 in either bundle. Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm F2.8 ASPH specifications: Principal specifications Lens type - Zoom lens Max Format size - 35mm FF Focal length - 24–70 mm Image stabilization - No Lens mount - L-Mount Aperture Maximum aperture - F2.8 Minimum aperture - F22 Aperture ring - No Number of diaphragm blades - 11 Optics Elements - 19 Groups - 15 Special elements / coatings - 3 aspherical elements Focus Minimum focus - 0.18 m (7.09″) Maximum magnification - 0.34× Autofocus - Yes Motor type - Stepper motor Full time manual - Unknown Focus method - Internal Distance scale - No DoF scale - No Physical Weight - 856 g (1.89 lb) Diameter - 88 mm (3.46″) Length - 123 mm (4.84″) Materials - Anodized aluminum Sealing - Yes Colour - Black Zoom method - Rotary (extending) Power zoom - No Zoom lock - No Filter thread - 82 mm Hood supplied - Yes