Leica SL (Typ 601) Preview
This month I attended a pre-launch even at the Leica Mayfair headquarters to hear about the new Leica SL interchangeable lens camera. The press had been the day before and there was a lot of hype from the videographers that this camera could be a game changer.
Well at this early stage it is hard to confirm the game changer statements. However, the Leica SL is an interesting piece of photographic technology and designed engineering. The camera is very solid and has a simplistic ergonomic styling, which although minimalist in appearances is not in specification. I have listed below some key points without going into the world of photographic jargon:
- Mirror-less camera design.
- Full frame 24 megapixels CMOS sensor (same size as a 35mm negative)
- Super bright and clear electronic viewfinder
- High-speed autofocus, possibly the quickest at present on the market
- Robust design, some may say heavy, however the quality cannot be questioned.
- Adapters available to take over 100 Leica lenses, including Leica-M, Leica-R and Leica S fit lenses.
- 4K Video, which is why the videographers are considering the Leica SL
I did not have time to take any images in the field. However I did take a few in the meeting room to at least get a basic feel of the camera and to be honest it was easier to use than I expected. The shots where all taken with the Leica Vario-Elmarit SL 24–90 mm ASPH lens. The first, third and fourth images are all close ups taken in low light conditions with minimal depth of field. The second was just to what an image would looked like enlarged. So to conclude the Leica SL is an interesting but expensive camera that will suit the pros.
Leica SL Typ 601 Digital Camera – preview
Leica SL Typ 601 Digital Camera – preview
Leica SL Typ 601 Digital Camera – preview
Leica SL Typ 601 Digital Camera – preview
