New: Leica M Monochrom - Available May 2012
With the Leica M Monochrom, Leica Camera AG, Solms presents the world’s first digital camera exclusively for full-frame, 35 mm black-and-white photography. Featuring a sensor especially designed for this purpose, it enables photographers to capture images in outstanding black-and-white quality that sets entirely new standards. The latest camera of the Leica M-System therefore continues the successful story of the Leica rangefinder system that has written numerous chapters in the history of innovative photography.
In the words of Jesko von Oeynhausen, product manager for the M-System at Leica Camera AG, ‘Black-and-white photography is more popular than ever before. Even today, it has lost nothing of its fascination as an expressive medium, not even for younger generations of photographers. This is confirmed by the numerous monochrome images shown by members of the M-Community, with whom we are in constant contact. With the M Monochrom, we now offer, for the first time ever, an opportunity to consistently and authentically explore black-and-white photography with a tool that is unique in the digital world. The camera’s exclusively black-and-white sensor brings an enormous technical benefit that is reflected in the amazing imaging quality it delivers.’
The 18 MP image sensor of the M Monochrom is perfectly matched to the unique properties of the Leica M-System and the superior performance of Leica M-Lenses. As the sensor does not ‘see’ colours, every pixel records true luminance values – as a result, it delivers ‘true’ black-and-white images that are significantly sharper than comparable exposures from a camera with a colour-sensitive sensor.
The classical, iconic design of the Leica M-cameras is carried forward by the Leica M Monochrom. The matt-black finish of the chromed top deck lets the camera appear as an unobtrusive tool. Only an engraved script on the accessory shoe reveals the product name. The camera features particularly soft leather trim with ideal grip that perfectly complements the camera’s discreet character. The camera package also includes a real-leather carrying strap in premium full-grain cowhide.
To allow precise control of tonal values, the Leica M Monochrom offers a raw data histogram display. The difference from conventional histograms is that it displays original, unprocessed and unmodified raw data. The combination of this with a configurable clipping display allows precise correction or optimisation of exposures.
At the touch of a button, images captured by the M Monochrom can be converted with characteristic toning effects from black-and-white film photography (sepia, cold or selenium toning). All users need to do is save the image in JPEG format and select the desired toning effect – simply and conveniently, and with no need for post-processing.
The M Monochrom is supplied complete with Adobe Photoshop Lightroom, a professional digital workflow solution. The software is available to customers as an online download after product registration. Adobe Photoshop Lightroom offers a wide range of functions for the management, processing and presentation of digital images, for example the creation of simple print layouts, slide shows and photo books. A full-version of Silver Efex Pro 2, the world’s leading black-and-white image processing software, is also included in the package . Silver Efex Pro 2 offers an impressive collection of unique and powerful, darkroom-inspired tools for the creation of high quality black-and-white images. Silver Efex Pro 2 emulates over 20 different types of black-and-white film to recreate the glory of classical black-and-white film photography. The emulation of each film type is based on the analysis of many rolls of the respective type and guarantees perfect reproduction of the characteristic look of many popular films from ISO 32 to ISO 3200.
For the production of high-quality black-and-white prints, Leica Camera AG also offers a unique service in collaboration with Whitewall. After registering their Leica M Monochrom on the Leica website, customers can have their digital images from the M Monochrom printed on premium-quality baryte paper and order copies from Whitewall by means of a personal link.
From photojournalism and available light photography to discreet, artistically aesthetic, creative compositions – the Leica M Monochrom adapts flexibly to every application and enables the expression of personal photographic style and consciously creative composition. The enormous potential performance of the current M-Lens portfolio, with focal lengths from 16 to 135 mm, is also fully accessible. In line with Leica’s renowned commitment to extreme system compatibility, almost all lenses of the Leica M range built since 1954 can still be used on the M Monochrom.
At the same time, all the characteristic properties of the Leica rangefinder system are also present in the new Leica M Monochrom. This, for instance, also includes the system’s intuitive and discreet handling. Its manual focusing, based on the combined viewfinder and rangefinder concept and aperture priority exposure mode is an aid to photographers rather than placing undesired limitations on their creative freedom. In combination with the monitor display on the back of the camera, the simple menu navigation needs only a few control elements to enable rapid access to the entire range of camera functions. Together with its compact construction, the camera’s almost silent shutter benefits discreet and unobtrusive photography. Photographers can even select the appropriate moment for re-cocking the shutter. Then again, when longer exposure times requiring an extremely steady camera stance are essential, a slight pressure on the shutter release button in ‘soft release’ mode is sufficient.
All functions of the Leica M Monochrom are constructed with extreme robustness and a long working life in mind. Its one-piece, full-metal housing, made from a high-strength magnesium alloy, and its top deck and bottom plate machined from solid brass blanks, provide perfect protection for its precious inner mechanisms. The digital components and shutter assembly of the M Monochrom are similarly constructed with a view to a lifetime of endurance. For photographers, this all adds up to absolute reliability over decades of use. The experienced hands of Leica technicians at the factory in Solms are responsible for the assembly and calibration of M Monochrom bodies and the precise testing of all mechanical and electrical components. Leica Customer Care has decades of experience in been repairs and maintenance and therefore creates a solid foundation for long life and enduring value. Even today, the service department maintains and repairs all M-Cameras built since 1954.
The Leica M-System has played a significant role in the development of the company’s financial situation in recent years. The annual figures have been correspondingly positive since the launch of the Leica M9 in September 2009 and are now registering record revenues.
The Leica M Monochrom in black chrome will be available from authorised Leica dealers from the end of July 2012 for RRP $10,999inc GST.
Technical data
Lens mount: Leica M bayonet with additional sensor for 6-bit coding
Lens system: Leica M lenses from 16 to 135 mm
Image sensor: Active area approx. 23.9 x 35.8 mm, 5212 x 3468 pixels (18 megapixels). Infrared blocking filter for invisible light with wavelengths longer than 700 nm, no low-pass filter
Exposure modes: Aperture priority (A) / manual (M)
Displays in flash mode: Flash ready: constant illumination of flash symbol LED in the viewfinder, flash confirmation: Constant illumination or rapid flashing of the LED after exposure, underexposure indicated by temporarily extinguished LED
Shutter: Microprocessor-controlled, particularly low-noise, metal-leaf, vertical focal-plane shutter
Shutter speeds: In aperture priority mode (A) continuous from 32 s to 1/4000 s. In manual setting mode, 8 s to 1/4000 s in half-speed increments, B for time exposures up to max. 240 s, shortest shutter speed for flash sync, 1/180 s
Memory cards: SD-cards from 2 GB, SDHC-cards up to 32 GB
Power supply: 1 rechargeable lithium-ion battery, nominal voltage 3.7V, capacity 1900 mAh. Charge level displayed on monitor screen, when shutter locked in open position (for sensor cleaning), additional acoustic warning signal for insufficient battery charge
Package includes: Battery charger 100 - 240 V with two power cords (EU, USA. May differ in other markets) and one car charging cable, lithium-ion battery, USB-cable, real leather carrying strap, original Leica Monochrom print of a campaign photo, instruction manual, information leaflets on registration and software downloads
New: Leica APO-Summicron-M 50mm f/2 ASPH
Available May 2012
Leica Camera AG, Solms, presents a new milestone in the history of lens construction: the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. With their goal of creating a lens that fully exploits the opportunities offered by high-resolution camera systems, the Leica engineers have successfully redefined the limits of what is technically possible. The result is an extremely high-performance lens that sets entirely new standards and currently stands as an exceptional talent amongst the standard lenses of the Leica M portfolio.
This new reference lens achieves the best test results ever seen in the Leica M-Lens programme. The MTF curves of the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. that describe the contrast of fine details and, in turn, the image sharpness, confirm its outstanding performance. Even the finest details are resolved with more than 50% contrast across the entire image field. This previously unattained value confirms the exceptional positioning of this lens. This means that all images captured with the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. in any situation show extreme sharpness and resolution of details from corner to corner of the image. At the same time, the apochromatic correction of the lens minimises chromatic aberration on sharp edges to ensure natural rendition of every detail. In consequence, photographers benefit from the best possible reproduction results at any print size.
The outstanding performance of the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. is founded on the perfect interaction of all its design and construction parameters, from its optical calculation and choice of materials to the sophisticated and elaborate manufacturing and finishing of the lens. Together with more than 150 years of experience in the design and construction of optical instruments, this once again emphasises Leica’s reputation as the manufacturer of the world’s best lenses.
The new design of the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. is based on the optical design of its predecessor that has been on the market since 1979 and is the oldest lens represented in the Leica M portfolio. The classical specifications – 50 mm focal length and a maximum aperture of f2 – offered an ideal starting point for further development. This meant that the lens designers were able to concentrate exclusively on the improvement of imaging quality within these standard specifications.
In its optical design, the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. is oriented on particular features of the Summilux-M 50 mm f/1.4 ASPH. and the Summilux-M 35 mm f/1.4 ASPH. lenses. For instance, the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. also incorporates a floating element. The lens group behind the diaphragm is designed as a floating element that changes its position relative to the front group during focusing. This ensure that the lens achieves outstanding imaging quality throughout its focusing range, including at closer focusing distances.
The realisation of the apochromatic correction of the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. involved the use of specially formulated glasses based on original developments from the former Leitz glass laboratory. The use of such glasses requires great effort and many years of experience. Thanks to the consistent advancement of optical processes, working with these high-quality glasses has been refined to such a fine art that they are integrated in the best possible quality in Leica lenses – as today, in the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH.
As a particularly reliable product with enduring value and ‘Made in Germany’, the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. is manufactured from only the best materials and is assembled in an elaborate process completely by hand in Solms. The combination of cutting-edge technologies and painstaking manufacturing procedures guarantees the consistently excellent quality of every single Leica lens.
The Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. in black finish will be available from authorised Leica dealers from the end of July 2012 for RRP $8,999inc GST.
Technical Data
Angle of view in ° (diagonal, horizontal, vertical):47° / 40° / 27°
Dimensions (Ø × L from bayonet flange, in mm):53 × 47
Weight (in g): 300
Closest focusing distance (from the sensor/film plane, in cm): 0.7
Smallest object field (in mm): 217 × 407
Number of iris blades: 11
Number of lenses (elements/groups): 8/5
Position of front lens (from the bayonet): 24.4 mm
Focusing range: 0.7 m to infinity
Scales: Combined, feet/metres
Largest reproduction ratio: 1:11.3
Apertures settings / function: Preselection with click stops at half stops
Smallest aperture: 16
Bayonet: Leica M quick-change bayonet
Filter mount: Inner-threaded for screw-in filters
Filter thread size (Ø in mm): E39
Lens hood: Integrated, extendable
New: Leica S-Adapter H - Available May 2012
Leica Camera AG, Solms, presents a new accessory for the Leica S medium format system: the Leica S-Adapter H. This adapter allows all the Hasselblad H-system lenses to be mounted on a Leica S2 camera body. All lens functions, such as autofocus, central shutter control and automatic diaphragm are retained. The smart electronics of the adapter facilitate the complete integration of the lenses into the Leica S-System.
The Hasselblad H-system features a total of 11 central shutter lenses with focal lengths from 28 to 300 mm. As the S2 features a dual shutter system – users may toggle between the focal plane shutter (FPS) in the camera body or the central shutter (CS) in the lens using the main switch – photographers now have access to numerous additional lenses that increase the photographic options offered by the Leica S-System.
Users of the Hasselblad H-system also benefit from the new adapter. The versatility of Hasselblad H lenses is expanded considerably when they are used in combination with an S2. For instance, thanks to the dual shutter system of the Leica S2, H lenses can be now used with the focal plane shutter at speeds of up to 1/4000th of a second. In combination with the Leica Maestro high-performance image processor, the camera’s image sensor enables perfect, noise-free exposures up to ISO 1250.
What’s more, the DNG format of images from the S2 enables direct connection to Adobe Lightroom 4 workflow software and seamless data transfer to Adobe Photoshop. The dedicated lens correction profiles computed by Leica for both programs help photographers to achieve maximum performance from the H lenses. In cases of a longer shooting session with high image frequency, the S2 also offers significant advantages due to its low power consumption. The optional multifunctional grip S with separate controls is a particularly useful aid for optimum camera handling for portrait-format shots.
The Leica S-Adapter H is now available from authorised Leica S-System dealers for RRP $2,199inc GST.
New: Leica X2 - Available May 2012
Leica Camera AG, Solms, has expanded the X-line with a new compact digital camera and now presents the Leica X2. Following the Leica X1, this is now the second Leica compact camera model ‘Made in Germany’.
The Leica X2 features a new, APS-C-format, professional CMOS image sensor with over 16.5 megapixels (effective 16.2 MP). In combination with the high-performance Leica Elmarit 24 mm f/2.8 ASPH. lens – a classic focal length for photojournalism –this sensor ensures maximum image quality and sparkling brilliance. The autofocus system has also been improved. It adapts to all shooting situations with enormous flexibility and enables fast, extremely precise and almost silent focusing. The camera’s profile is complemented by numerous setting options from full manual control to automatic functions and an intuitive handling concept. All this, together with its elegant and stylish design, makes the Leica X2 the ideal premium-class compact camera for discerning photographers who wish to concentrate completely on their subjects and appreciate creative and true-to-life pictures.
The CMOS image sensor of the X2 is unusually large for a camera in the compact segment. Despite its high resolution of over 16 megapixels, each individual pixel on the sensor is very large and therefore gathers more light. The benefit of this is low image noise, a high dynamic range and accurate colour differentiation. The crop factor of the sensor is 1.5 in comparison with 35-mm film format. This means that the Leica Elmarit 24 mm f/2.8 ASPH. lens of the Leica X2 becomes a universal reportage lens with an effective 35-mm-equivalent focal length of 35 millimetres. This is considered to be a classical focal length amongst prime lenses and has captured innumerable iconic images. The moderate wide-angle character and natural rendition of dimensions by the high-performance lens of the X2 open up a broad spectrum of different options for capturing those decisive moments in outstanding, authentic and richly detailed picture quality.
The Leica X2 is characterised by clear lines and an intensely focused design concept. The linearity of its design and its compact, handy form are reminiscent of the Leica M-cameras. This, in combination with its robust, all-metal construction and premium, high-grip leather trim makes the X2 a typical Leica camera in both looks and feel. The camera is available in a discreet black or elegant silver finish.
Thanks to its simple operating concept, the Leica X2 offers clearly laid-out functions and intuitive handling. At the same time, it offers an impressive range of automatic and versatile manual setting options. Thanks to the ease of switching between manual and automatic control, photographers can concentrate completely on composing their subjects and choosing the decisive instant to shoot in any situation. The dials on the top deck provide grip when setting the shutter speed and aperture. Moreover, changing the plane of focus, the white balance, and other imaging parameters allows photographers to consciously influence the look or mood of their images. In live view mode, the generously sized high-contrast 2.7" monitor offers photographers complete control at all times and a bright and detailed view, even in strong light.
The range of features offered by the Leica X2 provides greater creative freedom and a wide range of photographic options. For instance, its large sensor and fast lens make it ideal for shooting in available light. What’s more, the camera also features a pop-up flash that can be activated whenever an additional light source is required. If more lighting power and flexibility are required, the accessory shoe of the X2 offers full compatibility with the Leica SF 24D and SF 58 system flash units.
An extensive range of accessories is also available to adapt the Leica X2 to each photographer’s individual photographic style. Another new feature is the Viso-Flex high-resolution electronic accessory finder with 1.4 megapixels and a 90° swivel function for shooting from unusual angles. Also available is a bright-line mirror finder that can be mounted on the accessory shoe and ensures a bright and clear view at all times, with no drain on the camera battery. There is also an accessory handgrip that increases the grip and stability of the camera and makes it easier to shoot one-handed. Leica continues to offer a comprehensive range of bags and cases: a premium-quality black leather case to match the elegance of the X2, an ergonomically designed camera protector in untreated leather, an ever-ready case in organically tanned cowhide to protect the camera during use, and a system bag that offers more room for the camera and a range of accessories.
Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom®, a professional digital workflow solution for Apple Mac® OS X and Microsoft Windows®, is also included in the X2 package. This digital image processing software offers a wide range of functions for the management, processing and presentation of digital images. Leica X2 customers can download the software free from the Leica website after registering their camera.
The Leica X2 is available from authorised Leica dealers for RRP $2,499inc GST.
Technical Data
Lens: Leica Elmarit 24 mm f/2.8 ASPH.
8 elements in 6 groups
1 aspherical lens
Focal length: 24 mm (35 mm equivalent in 35-mm format)
Apertures: 2.8 to16 (1/3 EV increments)
Image sensor: APS-C CMOS image sensor with 16.5 MP (effective 16.2 MP)
Resolution: JPEG in 3:2 format: 4928 × 3264 pixels (16.1 MP), 4288 × 2856 pixels (12.2 MP), 3264 × 2160 pixels (7.1 MP), 2144 × 1424 pixels (3.1 MP), 1632 × 1080 pixels (1.8 MP) DNG in 3:2 format: 4944 × 3272 pixels (16.2 MP)
Exposure modes: Automatic programme (P), automatic aperture priority (A), automatic shutter priority (S), manual setting (M)
Flash modes: Auto, flash exposure correction, red-eye correction, fill-in flash, slow sync, studio, 1st/2nd curtain sync
Memory cards: SD, SDHC
Battery (rechargeable lithium-ion): Capacity: approx. 450 exposures
Package includes: Battery (Leica BP-DC8), battery charger (Leica BC-DC8), battery case, leather carrying strap, USB cable, lens cap, user manual
Software: Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® (free download option after product registration)
New: Leica V-Lux 40 - Available May 2012
Leica Camera AG, Solms, presents a new digital compact camera. This latest model offers numerous new features in comparison with its predecessor, the Leica V-Lux 30. In addition to the greater performance of its 15.3-megapixel (effective 14.1 MP), 1/2.33" CMOS sensor, the new camera also features a Leica DC Vario-Elmar 4.3–86 mm f/3.3–6.4 ASPH. lens with a zoom range now extended to 20×. Thanks to this greater range of focal lengths, now equivalent to 24 to 480 mm in 35-mm format, the Leica V-Lux 40 is a much more versatile camera. An LCD touch screen provides additional support to users in the fast and simple handling of the camera. Its compact design, comprehensive functions and additional features, such as an integrated GPS module or video recording in full HD quality, make the V-Lux 40 the ideal travel companion for capturing lasting memories along the way.
Its new 15.3-megapixel (effective 14.1 MP), 1/2.33" CMOS image sensor guarantees outstanding picture quality in all situations. It enables a higher dynamic range as well as particularly low-noise images at sensitivities up to ISO 3200. In comparison with its predecessor, the Leica V-Lux 40 now offers significantly improved image quality, even in low light. In addition to this, its autofocus speed of 0.1 seconds enables even faster focusing on moving subjects.
The enormous range of focal lengths covered by its Leica DC Vario-Elmar 4.3–86 mm f/3.3–6.4 ASPH. zoom lens (equivalent to 24 to 480 millimetres in 35-mm format) makes it ideal for almost all photographic situations. For expansive landscapes, finely detailed macro studies at short distances or for shots of distant objects with its super-telephoto setting – this Leica lens with high-precision aspherical lenses and an image stabiliser delivers outstanding results for all still images and video recordings.
The Leica V-Lux 40 offers a comprehensive range of camera functions. Users can choose from an enormous selection of creative imaging options – from a continuous shooting rate of ten frames per second at full resolution, and even 60 frames per second in high-speed mode, to creative modes with effects like miniature, panorama and retro. It is also ideal for video recording. The entire 20× zoom range is available during recording and an integrated stereo microphone with an electronic wind noise filter guarantees a crystal-clear soundtrack. What’s new is that videos can now also be saved in Internet-friendly MP4 format and can be uploaded directly to social media or mobile devices, for example, without any need for conversion.
An integrated GPS module rounds off the list of features and functions offered by the V-Lux 40. This allows users to save the geographical coordinates and local time of every shot captured in the Exif data of the image files.* In addition, the camera can also display the sightseeing highlights of the immediate neighbourhood (1,000,000 so-called ‘points of interest’). A DVD included in the package contains maps of important cities and regions. After transfer to an SD memory card, these can be uploaded to the camera and used for orientation in unfamiliar places. Photos can be stored in the maps as thumbnail images.
The new design of the Leica V-Lux 40 is dominated by classic black. Chromed elements set contrasting accents and lend the camera a refined and timelessly elegant look. Particularly easy handling is ensured by its large, 3-inch LCD touch screen that allows users to select or set numerous functions in capture and review mode simply by touching controls displayed on the monitor screen. This generously dimensioned screen has a diagonal of 7.5 centimetres and its resolution of 460,000 pixels displays images with outstanding brilliance. This provides users with an ideal tool for reliable and precise assessment of images both during composition and after capture.
The Leica V-Lux 40 is available now from authorised Leica dealers for RRP $749inc GST. The camera is supplied with an extensive software package comprising Adobe® Photoshop® Elements 10 for still-image processing and Adobe® Premiere® Elements 10, designed especially for video processing.
Technical data
Lens: Leica DC Vario-Elmar 4.3–86 mm f/3.3–6.4 ASPH. (equivalent to 24–480 mm in 35-mm format), 12 elements in 10 groups (3 elements with 6 aspherical surfaces)
Optical image stabilisation: Yes
Optical/digital zoom factor: 20x/4x
Image sensor: 1/2.33" CMOS image sensor with 15.3 MP (effective 14.1 MP)
Exposure modes: Programme (P), aperture priority (A), shutter priority (S), manual (M)
Flash modes: AUTO, AUTO with pre-flash (red-eye prevention), AUTO with longer shutter speeds and pre-flash, on, forced off
Memory cards: SD: 8 MB–2 GB, SDHC: 4 GB–32 GB, SDXC: 48 GB–64 GB
Battery (rechargeable lithium-ion): BP-DC7
Package includes: Camera, USB battery charger, lithium-ion battery (Leica BP-DC 7), hand strap, AV cable, software DVDs, CD with comprehensive manuals, printed instruction booklets, DVD with additional map data
Software: Adobe® Photoshop® Elements 10, Adobe® Premiere® Elements 10
