The X1 has an all-metal bodyshell with the same ‘steel grey’ finish that’s available for the M9. It has a 6.86 cm LCD monitor screen with a resolution of 230,000 pixels and which is used for live view viewfinding. An optional optical viewfinder is available and fits to the hotshoe mount. Image files are stored on SD/SDHC format memory cards (plus there’s 50 MB of internal storage) and while the camera has an HDMI output, it does not have any video recording capabilities.

The sensor has an effective pixel count of 12.2 million (giving a maximum image size of 4272×2586 pixels) and a sensitivity range equivalent to ISO 100 to 3200. The 24mm lens is linked to an 11-point AF system, but can be focused manually. There’s a choice of multi-zone, centre-weighted average and spot metering methods and a full set of ‘PASM’ exposure control modes with auto bracketing, +/-3.0 EV compensation and a shutter speed range of 30-1/2000 second. The lens’s aperture range is f2.8 to f16. The Leica X1 has both a hotshoe and a built-in flash which is fully concealed when retracted.

The Leica X1 technical specifications and broad spectrum of setting options from manual to automatic operation makes it a perfect companion for creative photographers, while the compact size means it can be carried at all times  ideal for capturing those unique, spontaneous moments in life.

The autofocus of the Leica X1 provides fast focusing competence and enables photographers to react in an instant. At the same time, the auto focus mode of the Leica x1 can be modified to suit the situation. Photographers have a choice of 1 or 11 AF segments and an additional high-speed mode for each. When taking photos of people, face-recognition mode allows complete concentration on the composition and framing of the picture.

The autofocus of the Leica X1 enables photographers to react in an instant. At the same time, the autofocus mode can be modified to suit the situation. The X1 offers versatile photography in terms of its numerous automatic functions and manual individual settings. The photographer can choose the easy way and let the camera take the lead over exposure or shutter settings in the automatic mode or switch over to manual controls by using the wheels on top of the camera.

This camera has clearly been designed as an instrument for taking photographs, pure and simple, and features a pared-down, traditionalist design in service of that goal. Shutter speed and aperture are controlled by dials on the top plate, and all other major shooting settings are directly accessible from buttons on the back. This is a design that utterly rejects fripperies in the quest for uncomplicated functionality; if you’re after an aquarium mode, HD movies or background music for your slide shows, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

Features

Leica X1 REVIEWS:

Digitalversus writes:

“At the widest possible aperture, the sharpness is ‘merely’ very good–and that’s across the whole frame. Adjusting it to f/5.6 is incredible: the detail is razor-sharp, thanks in part to a little accentuation but mostly to the incredibly high resolution. Looking at these images makes the case for Lecia’s fixed-focus lenses loud and clear.”
Rating: ★★★★½

SteveHuffPhoto writes:

“The one thing it does extremely well is record your life. Your memories. The images I have captured with the X1 seem to give me more smiles than those captured with the other small compact cameras. Hmmm. Maybe Leica DOES have some sort of magic going on in their factory.”
Rating: N/A

Telegraph writes:

“The camera flat out trounces its compact competition in areas of light where most sensors would struggle. However it still doesn’t quite compare with a DSLR of the same price.”
Rating: N/A

Photographyblog writes:

“The combination of a fantastic prime lens and large APS-C size sensor result in outstanding image quality that easily beats most other compacts and also most other entry-level DSLRs. Low-light images are excellent too, with the X1’s faster ISO settings delivering low-noise results. Add the ability to shoot DNG RAW files as well as JPGS, and it’s clear that the X1 is a real class-leader.”
Rating: ★★★★☆

WDC writes:

“The X1 is no ordinary camera. Designed very specifically to facilitate a fairly niche area of the market, its fixed 24mm (36mm equivalent) will rule out many buyers looking for something altogether different – and for less than the £1395 asking price. For those in the know, however, the combination of a large APS-C sized CMOS sensor and an f/2.8 24mm (36mm equiv.) fine lens does result in excellent images. “
Rating: ★★★★☆

Leica X1 Specifications

Sensor:
• 23.6 x 15.8 mm CMOS sensor
• APS-C size
• 13 million total pixels
• 12.2 million effective pixels

Lens:
• Leica Elmarit 24 mm F2.8
• 8 elements in 6 groups, 1 aspheric lens
• 35 mm equiv. FOV
• Non-removable

Focusing distance:
• Normal: 60 cm – Infinity
• Macro / Manual: 30 cm – Infinity

AF type:
• Contrast detect

AF modes:
• 1-point
• 1-point high speed
• 11-point
• 11-point high speed
• Spot
• Face detection

AF assist lamp:
• Yes

Exposure modes:
• Program automatic
• Aperture priority
• Shutter priority
• Manual

Exposure compensation:
• +/- 3.0 EV
• 1/3 EV steps

Exposure bracketing:
• 3 frames
• +/- 3.0 EV
• 1/3 EV steps

Metering:
• Intelligent multiple
• Center weighted
• Spot

Sensitivity:
• Auto ISO
• ISO 100
• ISO 200
• ISO 400
• ISO 800
• ISO 1600
• ISO 3200

Shutter speed range:
• 30 – 1/2000 sec

Aperture range:
• F2.8 – F16

White balance:
• Auto
• Halogen
• Daylight
• Flash
• Cloudy
• Shadow
• Manual 1
• Manual 2

White balance fine tuning:
• Two axis

File formats:
• JPEG
• DNG

Image sizes:
• 4272 x 2856 (12.2 MP)
• 3264 x 2160 (7.0 MP)
• 2144 x 1424 (3.0 MP)
• 1632 x 1080 (1.8 MP)

Image modes:
• JPEG Super fine
• JPEG Fine
• DNG + JPEG Super fine
• DNG + JPEG Fine

Self timer:
• 2 sec
• 12 sec

Continuous shooting:
• 3 / 2 fps
• 6 images max (JPEG Fine + DNG)

Auto review:
• 1 sec
• 3 sec
• 5 sec
• Hold

Film modes:
• Standard
• Vivid
• Natural
• B&W Natural
• B&W High contrast

Built-in flash modes:
• Auto
• Auto / Red-eye reduction
• Forced on
• Forced on / Red-eye reduction
• Slow sync
• Slow sync / Red-eye reduction
• Studio
• Option: First curtain / Second curtain

Hot shoe:
• Yes
• Compatible with SF58, SF24D

LCD monitor:
• 2.7″ TFT LCD
• 230,000 pixels
• 100% field of view

Playback:
• Standard
• 16 image thumbnail
• Zoomed (up to 16x)
• Image rotation
• Protection
• Deletion

Storage media:
• SD / SDHC

Connectivity:
• USB 2.0 (Mass storage device)
• HDMI

Power:
• Lithium-ion battery pack
• 260 exposures est. life
• 200 min charge

Dimensions:
• 60 x 124 x 32 mm (2.4 x 4.9 x 1.3 in)

Weight:
• 286 g (10 oz)

Supplied accessories:
• LEICA BP-DC8 rechargeable battery
• Battery charger (LEICA BC-DC8)
• Protective battery cover
• Leather carrying strap
• USB cable
• Lens cap
• Adobe Photoshop Lightroom (download option after product registration)

The Leica V-Lux 3 features a very impressive range of video functions, capturing full-HD video in AVCHD format with 1920 × 1080 pixels and 60 full frames per second. This 1080p60 video format not only guarantees the perfect rendition of fast movement in outstanding detail but is also ideal for conversion to alternative resolutions and refresh rates. The entire 24-fold zoom range is available during video recording while an integrated stereo microphone with an electronic wind noise filter guarantees a crystal-clear soundtrack.

This compact camera combines exceptional performance with the handy size of a compact camera. It offers a vast range of focal lengths and covers almost all photographic situations that usually require the use of a camera system. It is therefore an attractive alternative to entry-level DSLR cameras with interchangeable lenses.

The design of this camera is characterized by a compact form and extremely simple handling. The camera’s integrated handgrip keeps it steady and its light weight allows for one-handed shooting. All controls are clearly laid out and simple to use.

This camera incorporates an enormously flexible lens, the Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 4.5 – 108 mm f/2.8 – 5.2 ASPH. 24-fold super-telephoto zoom lens which covers a wide range of focal lengths equivalent to 25–600 mm in 35 mm format.

The camera also is supplied with a comprehensive software package, including Adobe® Photoshop® Elements and Adobe® Premiere® Elements.

KEY FEATURES:

• Adobe Photoshop Elements and Adobe Premiere Elements
• full-HD video in AVCHD format with 1920 × 1080 pixels
• Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 4.5-108 mm f/2.8 image-stabilised lens
• 24x optical zoom lens
• 12.1 megapixel CMOS sensor
• 3 inch, 460,000 pixel LCD screen
• 60 full frames per second

Specifications

Jump to:
- Product Information
- Videos
- Specifications

The Leica V-Lux 30 enables consecutive burst shooting at a rate of ten frames per second at a full resolution of 14.1 MP. As with the complete Leica portfolio, the characterized by timelessly elegant styling and extremely easy handling.

The Leica V-Lux 30 is the perfect camera for everyone who travels the world with their eyes wide open to capture inspiration from their surroundings. Taking pictures with the V-Lux 30 is just as easy as his stunts appear to be. It is the perfect camera for seeing the world from totally new perspectives.

The photographic options offered by the Leica V-Lux 30 and its 16× optical-zoom range cover everything from wide-angle and macro shots to telephoto shots of distant subjects. Extremely precise aspherical lenses in the construction of its Leica DC Vario-Elmar 1:3.3-5.9 4.3-68.8 mm ASPH. zoom lens (24-384 mm, 35-mm equivalent) enable an enormous range of focal lengths from 24 to 384 mm – for video as well as still pictures.

The Leica V-Lux 30 camera is made even more versatile by a continuous shooting mode (burst mode), allowing the capture of an impressive ten images per second at full resolution (14.1 MP), and a 3D image-capture mode.

Another highlight of the Leica V-Lux 30 is its amazingly efficient video recording format: it records videos in 1920 × 1080i AVCHD full-HD including GPS data and, in contrast to the usual M-JPEG format, uses about 50% less memory – for the same brilliant image quality.

Videos

Digital Camera Specifications:

Jump to:
- Product Information
- Reviews
- Videos
- Specifications

Good:
- Versatile 24x optical zoom
- 1080i AVCHD video capture
- Stereo microphone
- Fold-out LCD screen

Bad:
- Uncharacteristically dull design from Leica
- Some visible noise at high ISO settings
- Expensive

The Leica V-Lux 2 is its ability to shoot videos in 1080i-AVCHD Full HD. The Leica V-Lux2 is supplied with a comprehensive suite of software. The super-zoom compact for travel and nature photography : the Leica V-Lux 2 is the perfect camera for adventurers, globetrotters and nature-lovers who want to discover more of the world.

The Leica V-Lux2 combines a high-performance lens and outstanding image quality with a sleek and compact body. Equipped with a Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 4.5 – 108 mm f/2.8 – 5.2 ASPH. lens, a 3” rotating LCD display and a wide variety of video functions in 1080i-AVCHD Full HD, the Leica V-Lux 2 is ideal for almost any photographic situation.

The Leica V-Lux2 camera’s 3″ LCD display has a resolution of 406,000 pixels and can be twisted and turned in almost any direction, making it easy for photographers to compose pictures from even the most unusual angles.

When shooting stills or videos from over their heads or close to the ground, photographers using the Leica V-Lux 2 are always in full control.

Reviews

reviews.cnet.co.uk writes:
“The highly versatile Leica V-Lux 2 superzoom is enjoyable to use and capable of capturing some fantastic shots. But this camera is basically the same as a Panasonic model that’s almost half the price.”

cnet.com.au writes:
“The V-Lux 20 is a great choice for consumers who want a Leica camera and can afford to pay more. But if budget is an issue, stick to the TZ10 as it delivers almost the same features and performance.”

digicambuyer.co.uk writes:
“The Leica V-LUX 2 is an excellent superzoom model, yet it’s not as special as other Leica models and has too high a price tag for what it does offer”

Videos

Good:
- Sublime picture quality
- Plenty of manual options
- Classic design
- Adobe Photoshop Lightroom software included

Bad:
- Expensive
- No built-in viewfinder
- Disappointingly pedestrian user interface

The Leica D-Lux 5 is digital camera offers a faster LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON 5.1 – 19.2mm f/2 – 3.3 ASPH. lens with an extended range of focal lengths equivalent to 24 to 90mm in 35mm format.

The Leica D-Lux 5 is a true Leica, not only in terms of its elegant design but also in its superior optical performance: The result are images of excellent quality. Suitable for a wide range of photographic situations, from macro and wide-angle architecture and landscape photography to reportage and portrait photography, the Leica DC Vario-Summicron 5.1 – 19.2 mm f/2 – 3.3 ASPH.

The zoom of the Leica D-Lux 5 offers an extremely practical range of focal lengths. Additionally, its exceptionally fast maximum aperture makes it an ideal camera for ‘available light’ photography. Whether in unfavorable lighting conditions or for conscious manipulation of depth of focus, the Leica 5 is the perfect camera for capturing truly distinctive images.

The Leica D-Lux 5 sensor is finely tuned to bring out the best of the Leica DC Vario-Summicron 5.1 – 19.2 mm f/2 – 3.3 ASPH. Lens. Combined with the camera’s electronics and firmware, it guarantees brilliant high-contrast images with natural color rendition and superb sharpness. Also contributing to its exceptional image quality, the Leica camera 5′s pixels are considerably larger than that of other cameras.

Featuring a particularly large sensor for a compact camera, the Leica D-Lux 5 1/1.63″-CCD image sensor contributes to a significant increase in image quality, even at 10.1 megapixels.

Reviews

stevehuffphoto.com writes:

“The Leica D-Lux 5 is a great camera. PERIOD. It is jam packed with every feature you could ever need and its image quality is splendid. No, it is not up there with large sensor cameras but this is a compact camera that gives some of the best quality I have seen to date in a camera of this size. I would take this of the Panasonic over any Canon P&S and any Nikon P&S  – ANY DAY. Wether you go for the Panny or the Leica is up to you but both will deliver great results in good light or low light. The AF is fast, the color is superb, the customization is wonderful and  the video is very good (though not nearly as good as DSLR larger sensor HD video)”

reviews.cnet.co.uk writes:

“The Leica D-Lux 5 compact camera is undeniably expensive. But its superior images, classic design and broad range of features go a long way towards justifying its price tag.”

stevehuffphoto.com reviews writes:

“The D-Lux 5 will be a hit for Leica just like the “4″ was. If the D-Lux 4 was the “Son Of The M8″ then what does that make the D-Lux 5? The Son Of The M9? Well, no. I would give that title to the X1 but the D-Lux 5 is a camera that I could enjoy as a take anywhere “all in one” tool when I just want to get some family snaps and maybe some video.”

photographytalk.com reviews writes:

“There’s little doubt that the Leica D-Lux 5 DSLR camera is a very good choice. The tougher question is “Is your wallet deep enough?” The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom software, which retails from $250 to $300, should soften the blow a bit. Plus, Leica’s standard warranty is for two years. This is not a camera for everyone, but the kind of person that can appreciate the quality difference of a Leica, and is willing to pay for it.”

Videos

Jump to:
- Product Information
- Reviews
- Videos
- Specifications

Our Rating ****~ (4/5)

Good: Good image quality, accurate color reproduction, manual exposure control, quick performance, multi aspect ratio sensor, ships with Photoshop Elements 8.

Bad: Expensive compared with the TZ10, no AVCHD video compression.

Beautifully styled in a matt black finish, the Leica V-Lux 20 has been designed with simple,ergonomic controls and user-friendly menus.The V-LUX 20 includes Adobe Photoshop Elements 8 for quick and easy image editing.

Super cheap cameras sell the Leica V-Lux 20 JR camera house sales the Leica V-Lux 20

Compact size, intuitive handling and a high-performance 12x zoom lens make the Leica V-Lux 20 the perfect companion to have around wherever you happen to be – for every day photgraphy, touring the city or holidaying by the beach. The Leica 20 is the perfect tool with which to capture those wonderful moments in life as high quality pictures. Direct, spontaneous, and intuitive. This is made possible by numerous automatic functions and a versatile 12× zoom lens with an enormous focal range from 25 to 300 mm. The optional manual setting of apertures and shutter speeds offers even the most demanding photographers complete creative control. With the latest advanced features such as HD movie and optional GPS image tagging, the Leica V-Lux 20 offers the greatest possible flexibility and ease of use – for still photography or movies when you are out and about, and even for archiving pictures already taken.A camera for people who appreciate quality and love to own and use something special.

Reviews

Thephoblographer  writes:
“Images are pretty sharp for a camera of this type. Colors are rendered well. The only thing that I found to be problematic was the fact that I wanted a faster lens on this camera. In good light, the autofocus is snappy. In bad lighting it still isn’t terrible but can be inaccurate at times. However, these aren’t very often as the autofocus areas are large and pretty smart.”
Rating: N/A

T3 reviews  writes:
“The camera produces the kind of images you’d expect from a prestige brand, like Leica – punchy colours that are bright but still look realistic, not cheap. Contrast is handles expertly and, as you’d expect from a Leica lens, the autofocus and image stabilisation do a great job – all of our test pictures were in-focus and without blur.”
Rating: ★★★★☆

Pocket-Lint reviews  writes:
“The Leica V-Lux 20 is a Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ10 based 12x optical zoom digital camera that provides plenty of features and shooting options within a remarkably compact body. But it’s at a greatly inflated price of over its Panasonic counterpart and a good software bundle aside, the camera can produce superb results and HD movies used well, but whether or not its worth the extra £240 to buy it over the Lumix, only you can decide.”
Rating: ★★★½☆

Stevehuffphoto reviews writes:
“The quality at 300mm is hit or miss though. You really need good light even though the lens has a maximum aperture of 4.9 when fully zoomed out. At 300mm, you need a high shutter speed to get a crystal clear shot. Hand movement, even with the optical image stabilization can screw up your photo pretty fast. Wide open at 300mm you can get some softness but overall it’s really really good, even at 4.9 and 300mm.”

Videos

Rating: N/A

Specifications:

Sensor:
• 1/2.33″ Type CCD
• 14.5 million pixels total
• 12.1 million effective pixels

Image sizes:
• 4:3 Aspect Ratio: 4000 x 3000, 3264 x 2448, 2560 x 1920, 2048 x 1536, 1600 x 1200, 640 x 480
• 3:2 Aspect Ratio: 4176 x 2784, 3392 x 2264, 2656 x 1768, 2048 x 1360, 640 x 424
• 16:9 Aspect Ratio: 4320 x 2432, 3552 x 2000, 2784 x 1568 , 1920 x 1080, 640 x 360

Movie clips:
• 1280×720 pixels @ 60fps
(QuickTime Motion JPEG)
• 848 x 480 pixels @ 30 fps
(Motion JPEG)
• 640 x 480 pixels @ 30 fps
(Motion JPEG)
•320 x 240 pixels @ 30 fps
(Motion JPEG)

File formats:
• Still Image: JPEG(DCF/Exif2.21)
• Motion picture: QuickTime Motion JPEG

Lens:
• 12x optical zoom
• 25 – 300mm (35mm equiv.)
• f=4.1-49.2mm
• F3.3 – 4.9
• LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR
• 10 elements in 8 groups

Image stabilization:
• Lens

Digital zoom:
• Yes, up to 4x

Focus:
• Normal
• Macro
• Zoom Macro
• Pre-focusing (On/Off)
• Continuous AF On/Off
• AF Tracking

Metering:
• Face / AF tracking
• 11-point
• 1-point high speed
• 1-point
• Spot

Focus distance:
• Normal: Wide 50cm – infinity, Tele 2m – infinity
• Macro / Intelligent AUTO/ Movie: Wide 3 cm / Tele 1 m – infinity

ISO sensitivity:
• Auto
• 80
• 100
• 200
• 400
• 800
• 1600

Exposure compensation:
• ± 2EV, 1/3EV steps

Shutter speed:
• 60-1/2000 sec
• Starry Sky Mode : 15, 30, 60sec

Aperture:
• F3.3 – 4.9/ Multistage Iris Diaphragm (F3.3 – 6.3 (W) / F4.9 – 6.3 (T)

Modes:
• Program mode (P)
• Aperture priority (A)
• Shutter priority (S)
• Manual setting (M)
• Snapshot
• Custom
• Scene
• Movie
• Clipboard

White balance:
• Auto
• Daylight
• Cloudy
• Shade
• Halogen
• White Set

Self timer:
• 2, 10 sec

Continuous shooting:
• Full-Resolution Image
2.3 frames/sec Max. 5 images (Standard mode), Max 3 images (Fine Mode)
• High-speed Burst Mode:
Approx. 6.0 frames/sec (image priority)
Approx. 10 frames/sec (speed priority)
(recorded in 3M for 4:3, 2.5M for 3:2, 2M for 16:9)

Image parameters:
• Standard, Black & White, Sepia, Cool, Warm, Happy (only in iA Mode)

Flash:
• Auto, Auto with pre-flash (red-eye reduction), Auto with slower shutter speeds and pre-flash, On, Off
• 0.6 – 5.3m (Wide/ISO Auto), 1.0 – 3.6m (Tele/ISO Auto)

Viewfinder:
• No

LCD monitor:
• 3.0″ TFT LCD Display
• 460,800 dots
• Field of View : approx. 100%
• AUTO Power LCD mode, Power LCD mode

Connectivity:
• USB2.0 High speed
• AV Output (NTSC/PAL)
• miniHDMI
• DC Input

Print compliance:
• PictBridge
• DPOF

Storage:
• SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Card
• 15MB internal memory

Power:
• Li-ion battery
• Charger included
• AC adaptor (optional)

Weight (no batt):
• 196 g

Weight (with batt):
• 218g

Dimensions:
• 103 x 62 x 33 mm

Our Rating ****~ (4/5)

Good: image quality, terrific wide lens, assistance mode, high def lcd, leica color
Bad: deep feature menus, leica x1 available, poorly located dials, proprietary raw, noisy past iso 400

crunchgear reviews writes:
“The D-LUX, like the LX3, has a 10-megapixel sensor, 3-inch screen, and a 10x optical zoom. The minimum focal length is 5.1 mm and the max is 12.8 (about a 24-60mm equivalent on a 35mm frame). It has a tiny pop-up flash and ISO sensitivity from 80 to 3200. It weighs 8 ounces.”

wired.com reviews writes:
“This is an excellent camera: Small enough to go unnoticed in a coat pocket but solidly built, with full-on manual controls, a decent and large LCD viewscreen, and a capable, 24mm wide-angle lens with an enormous range that makes up for noticeable image bending at the edges.”

pcworld reviews writes:
“Leica’s D-LUX 4 looks very stylish and it takes clear and natural-looking photos. It has good speed, plenty of manual settings, and its scene modes are very useful. However, you do have to forego a sizable chunk of your income to procure it.”

dpexpert reviews the LEICA D-LUX 4 and writes:
“Image quality at low ISO speeds is exceptionally fine. At ISO400 a little noise is apparent, but we found that shooting RAW and applying a small amount of noise reduction in Adobe Camera RAW removed the grain. Response times are very fast. The Leica branded lens, with its modest zoom range, is superbly sharp with insignificant distortion at 24mm.”

The Leica D-LUX 4 offers a wide range of optional accessories that extend the camera’s application potential: An additional filter adapter, for instance, allows the use of an E46 UVa filter to adapt to special conditions. A black brilliant viewfinder with 24 mm brightline frame can be attached to the flash shoe of the Leica D-Lux 4, enabling the photographer to view his subject without using battery power. A slot-on compact flash unit Leica CF 22 is also available for the Leica D LUX4. Another option is an additional handgrip that makes the camera easier to hold. The camera is also prepared for photos in HDTV format: By connecting the camera’s HD port to a HD television set with optional component cable, slides can be shown in high definition. The range of accessories is rounded off by high-quality leather cases in black and brown.

The high-speed zoom lens Leica DC VARIO-SUMMICRON 5.1-12.8 mm f/2.0-2.8 ASPH consists of eight elements (four of them aspherical) in six groups. The optics are individually matched to the camera sensor, working in harmony with the electronics and software to produce stunningly brilliant pictures in true-to-life colors. As regards color matching, contrast and picture definition, Leica Camera AG has developed its own profile. This is oriented to the picture characteristics that are well known to Leica System Camera customers from their use in combination with professional film materials and specialist development laboratories.

The Leica D-LUX 4 has a strikingly clear and concentrated design. This and the reduction to the essentials show the camera’s typical Leica lineage. The ergonomic layout of controls and intuitive operating concept make it a pleasure to handle. Focus, shutter speed, stops and exposure override can all be set manually with the joystick. For those who like photography to be even less complicated, the camera integrates many improved automatic functions. When they are switched on, the user just has to press the shutter release button to obtain a perfectly exposed and focused picture. In automatic mode, the camera automatically combines the many individual functions to suit the subject and the photographic conditions, controlling the O.I.S. image stabilizer, the automatic ISO control, face recognition, automatic contrast compensation and automatic choice of scene mode.

Specifications:

Lens:
LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON5.1-12.8 mm f/2.0-2.8 ASPH.
8 elements in 6 groups
4 aspherical elements / 4 aspherical surfaces
2.5x optical zoom
digital zoom max.
Integrated optical image stabilizer

Focal length:
5.1 – 12.8 mm (= 24-60 mm in 35 mm photography)
Aperture: Wide-angle: f2/f8.0 (1/3 EV steps)
Telephoto: f2.8/f8.0 (1/3 EV steps)

Focusing:
AF: Face recognition, AF tracking, 11-field, 1-field-high-speed, 1-field, 1-spot

Image sensor:
1:1.63” CCD sensor with 11.3 million total pixels

Effective pixels:
10.1 million

Sensitivity setting:
Auto/80/100/200/400/800/1600/3200

White balance:
Auto, sun, overcast sky, shade, flash lighting, halogen lighting, White Set 1, White Set 2

Exposure:
Automatic program, shutter speed priority, aperture priority, manual;
manual override ±2 EV in 1/3 steps, automatic bracketing (3 exposures with ± 1/3 to 1 EV steps) m

Exposure metering:
Choice of multi-field metering, center-weighted averaging, spot metering

Programs:
P/A/S/M/Custom 1/Custom2/iA/Scene/Video

Scene modes:
Portrait, soft skin, self-portrait, landscape, sport, night portrait, night landscape, food, party, candlelight, baby1, baby 2, sunset, high-sensitivity, starry sky, fireworks, beach, snow, aerial photo, high-speed series, flash series, film grain, pinhole camera

Shutter speed range:
60 – 1/2000 s

Self-timer:
2 s or 10 s countdown

Film modes:
Standard, dynamic, natural, soft, decorative, nostalgic, b/w standard, b/w dynamic, b/w soft, My film 1, My film 2, Multi

Image sizes:
4:3 format (max. 10MP): 3648x 2736 , 3072 x 2304, 2560 x 1920, 2048 x 1536 , 1600 x 1200 , 640 x 480
3:2 format (max. 9.5MP): 3776 x 2520 , 3168 x 2112, 2656 x 1768 , 2112 x 1048, 2048 x 1360
16:9 format (max. 9MP): 3968 x 2232 , 3328 x 1872, 2784 x 1568 , 2208 x 1248 , 1920 x 1080

Video recording:
16:9 format: HD 1280×720 (24 fps), 848×480 (30 fps)
4:3 format: 640×480 (30 fps), 320×240 (30 fps, 10 fps)

Data recording:
Fine / Standard
RAW / RAW + standard / RAW + fine

Series exposures:
2.5 fps
Max. 8 images (standard), 4 images (fine), 3 images (RAW)

High-speed series mode:
Approx. High-speed series mode: Approx. 6 photos (3 MP with 4:3), (2.5 MP with 3:2), (2 MP with 16:9) 6 photos (3 MP with 4:3), (2.5 MP with 3:2), (2 MP with 16:9)

Flash:
Auto / Auto+Anti-red-eye / Long-time Synchro+Anti-red-eye / Flash always /Flash off, 1st /2nd shutter curtain

Monitor:
3“ TFT-LCD (3:2), 460,000 pixel, wide-angle field of view approx.

Monitor playback:
Overview (12/30 images, calendar), zoom, favorites, categories, slide show, picture rotation, alteration of resolution and cropping, deletion protection, photo from video, double image, larger focus field, horizon correction

Storage media:
Built-in memory (50 MB), SD memory card, SDHC memory card and MultiMedia card

Microphone/Loudspeaker:
Built-in

Ports:
DC input/AV output (NTSC/PAL), USB 2.0 high-speed, mains unit

Printer compatibility:
PictBridge

Power supply:
Lithium-ion battery or optional mains unit/charger

Battery capacity:
380 photos (as per CIPA standard)

Dimensions (wxhxd):
108.7 x 59.5 x 27.1 mm

Weight:
228 g

The Leica M8 digital rangefinder body continues the look and feel of the legendary M-series 35mm rangefinder cameras. The camera has the same rounded contours and satin chrome or black finish as M7 film camera.

Sensor

The notably low-noise CCD image sensor has been rigorously optimised for the special features of the Leica M lens system and offers a resolution of 10.3 million pixels.

CCD technology generates less noise than any other type of sensor and was therefore chosen as the image sensor for the LEICA M8. The speed settings of ISO 160 through to 2500 permit pictures with a greater wealth of detail than can be achieved with analog film.

The special design of the viewfinder camera with no mirror box allows the typically compact and flat shape of the LEICA M to be retained, but leads to a higher angle for entry of light beams into the sensor. Comprehensive measures have been taken so that the picture quality demanded by Leica is nevertheless achieved. The special modification of the image sensor with a micro-lens offset avoids any annoying vignetting in the corners of the picture. A particularly thin cover glass, reduced to only 0.5mm, prevents the usual undesirable refraction of light when light rays strike at an angle. High-contrast, sharp and exactly true colour reproduction right into the corners of the picture is the result of these efforts.

The Leica M8 deliberately rejected a Moiré filter, which filters out fine details of the picture, so as to fully exploit the high resolution of the Leica M lens.

Any Moiré fringes that occur are instead eliminated during digital signal processing within the camera.The factor of 1.33 means that the equivalent focal length of the lens is shifted slightly by about one focal length step towards a telescopic focal length. So a 21 mm lens has an equivalent focal length of 28 mm. The lens range of the Leica M system is extended with the introduction of the LEICA M8 by two wide-angle lenses in the range from 16 to 28 mm focal length; these lenses are available for use on both analog and digital cameras. The new lenses are characterised by the typical Leica exceptionally high optical performance, even at fully open aperture.

Lenses

The LEICA M8 can be used with virtually all lenses in the Leica M range produced since 1954. This high system compatibility has been maintained through the changeover in recording technology from film to digital.

Even new customers who start with a digital LEICA M8 receive many application options and profit from the high retained value of Leica products. The high mechanical and optical precision of the Leica and the exceptionally good picture capabilities, above all in the current product range, mean that Leica M lenses are ideally suited to digital applications. Performance criteria such as the individual coating of each lens are provided as standard and need not be ordered as special measures for “digital lenses”.

With a new 6-bit coding on the bayonet ring, the M8 can recognise the lens type that is used. This information is used by the camera for additional picture quality improvement by compensating for artificial vignetting. For this purpose the lens type is saved in the Exif picture file. All lenses delivered from the factory since 1st July 2006 have this new coding, but they can also be used without restriction on the current MP and M7 analog models, and indeed on all the classic models produced since 1954. Current lens models, and many earlier lens models, can be retrofitted on a chargeable basis so that they can support this picture optimisation feature of the camera. Even without modification, the lenses are fully compatible with the LEICA M8, albeit without supporting the additional features.

Viewfinder

The viewfinder system distinguishes the LEICA M8 from the general run of mirror reflex and compact cameras on the market. It makes the camera into a specialist tool for living reportage and available-light photography, and for discreet portraiture. The photographer is part of the action and the viewfinder is his frame to capture what he is seeking – a scene, a mood, a moment. He also sees what is happening outside the viewfinder frame. The deciding instant can be foreseen and recorded at the right moment. The result is a particularly authentic shot, which contains nothing that betrays the presence of the photographer.

The photographer sees his subject in the lighting conditions as they are, and even in difficult available-light situations the viewfinder’s wide range of brightness and contrast allows quick and precise focussing. Together with the short release delay – in digital as well as analog photography – this means that the Leica M cameras have one of the quickest viewfinder operations in the world.

A mirror reflex system must focus through the lens, which determines the accuracy to which it can determine the focal length and light intensity. In contrast, the metering basis for the M is the range finder, whose performance is always the same, irrespective of the lens. Therefore its accuracy at short focal lengths is many times better than mirror reflex systems. The high-contrast metering field in the centre of the image guarantees quick, precise and spot-on focussing even under extremely poor lighting conditions.

The image field selector allows the photographer to simulate the effects of different focal lengths and to determine the correct focal length in advance, without having to change the lens. The six different bright-line frames always show the exact boundaries of the picture, since their position is adjusted by the automatic parallax compensation, depending on the range setting. All other relevant information and the surroundings of the subject can be seen in the bright-line frame viewfinder, for a perfect result – the ideal conditions for spontaneous and unobtrusive photography.

Shutter

The electronically controlled metal blade slot shutter permits exposure times down to 1/8000 of a second. Even under bright lighting conditions the photographer has full freedom of composition by use of selective image sharpness with an open aperture. The short flash synchronisation time of 1/250 of a second now permits even daylight flash pictures with selective sharpness.

Intuitive operation

The M8 guides the photographer’s concentration on to the picture, not the operation of the camera. Therefore the creative aspects of aperture, time and focal plane which determine the result of the picture are in foreground. Great care, many years of experience and comprehensive knowledge of how professional photographers work have contributed to the operating concept of the digital functions. By concentrating on the essentials even here a simple, clear and intuitive user guide has been created: in the camera, multiple loadings of function keys and nested menus have been deliberately eliminated.

The core controls for operating the digital functions are the direction buttons and rotary setting dial, which in combination allow rapid navigation. By pressing the “Set” button, the picture parameters menu is called up on the 2.5“ monitor. Here the principal settings for the picture can quickly be selected: sensor speed, lighting correction, white balance, data compression and picture resolution. Three saved profile slots are available for quickly calling up frequently used and application-specific combinations.

The menu button allows a clear system menu to be called up for selecting the long-term basic settings, such as the ECI RGB, Adobe ® RGB and sRGB colour variants. The photographer can here make his own choice about whether the photographs should be shown for checking on the large display directly after they have been taken, how long they should be displayed and whether he wishes to see a tonal values histogram with that display.

The camera has an auto-release function with two selectable delay times of two and twelve seconds.

An information display at the top of the left side of the body shows the remaining capacity of the SD card and the remaining charge of the lithium ion rechargeable battery. These photographically elementary displays can be read at a glance at any time.

Innovative flash technology

The modern metal blade slot shutter in the camera enables very short flash synchronisation times down to 1/250 of a second. In addition, the M8 for the first time uses the new M-TTL flash technology. The special feature of this is that immediately before the actual flash illumination, a calibration pre-flash is fired. The TTL metering detects the light reflected from the surface of the subject, and determines the exact power requirement for the main flash. The smooth addition of the flash lighting power to the ambient light allows flash pictures that have the appearance of being under natural lighting.

The “Auto Slow Sync” function permits the use of aperture priority mode in combination with flash technology. This provides a balanced background to the picture, even if the intensity of the continuous lighting changes. To achieve the correct lighting, an appropriately metered brightening flash is used. Depending on the desired effect or experience, varying lengths of lighting time can be set for the aperture priority mode. This can be input manually, or if coded lenses are being used, is can be determined automatically, using the proven rule of thumb “1/focal length = lighting time in seconds”.

Specifications:

The Leica M9 system camera is very quiet. An extremely low noise level when cocking the shutter is ensured by a sophisticated motor and gearing system. In discreet mode, the shutter is only cocked after the photographer‘s finger is lifted from the shutter release button. When shooting handheld at long exposure times, or whenever extreme steadiness is essential, slight pressure on the shutter release button in ‘soft release’ mode is sufficient to trigger the Leica M9. In addition to these advantages, the fact that the combination of camera and lens is significantly more compact than any other full-frame camera system contributes to the fact that photographers are frequently unnoticed and often simply blend into the background. The perfect situation for a street photographer.

The Leica M9 digital system camera aids photographers with automatic functions, but it never dictates how to shoot or interferes with the picture-taking process. Depending on the light level, the automatic ISO shift function increases the sensitivity of the camera as soon as the shutter speed falls below a hand-holdable value. At the same time, it also limits the shift to a maximum value determined by the photographer. This means that correct exposure without camera shake and the lowest possible sensitivity is always available to guarantee the best possible image quality in all situations. In addition, the Leica M9 also offers automatic exposure bracketing with a user-selectable number of shots and exposure increments.

The Leica M9 camera’s sensitivity ranges from ISO 80 to ISO 2500. Low noise levels and finely detailed images are achieved throughout the sensitivity range, even at the highest ISO settings. Very low image noise characteristics, an extremely bright viewfinder/rangefinder, low-vibration shutter and the availability of super fast lenses make the Leica M9 the perfect camera for available-light photography.

The CCD image sensor in the M9 was specifically designed and developed for this camera – and offers full 35-mm film format without any compromises. All M lenses mounted on the M9 offer the same exact angle of view they had when shooting film material and therefore can now be used to an optimum effect. In other words, all the outstanding characteristics of Leica M lenses are now fully maintained for digital photography as well. In short, the high resolution and superior image quality of the Leica M9 has the ability to fully exploit the enormous potential of M lenses.

web.me.com reviews the Leica M9 and writes:
“If you love rangefinders, if you love Leica, if you are passionate about photography, the Leica is a great camera for you. If you shoot with DSLR’s and want a lighter camera that will become an extension of your mind and go with you everywhere, the M9 is a camera you will love. I can go on and on but I will stop here.”

David Farkas Photography Blog writes:
“Taken as a whole, the M9 is the most compact, highest quality image-making tool on the market, with a full frame sensor looking through gorgeous Leica M glass.”

luminous-landscape.com writes:
“In the end some may well see the M9 as an expensive retro plaything. But, there will be countless photographers both young and old around the world who will see the M9 for what it is – a unique photographic device that provides a method of photography that reaches back to the beginnings of photojournalism in the early years of the 20th century. Combining this with the latest digital technology that gives new expression to a style of photography that will likely never go out of style.”

Ephotozine writes:
“What I really like about the M9 is that Leica could’ve added all sorts of bells and whistles but instead went for the workhorse approach with superior build and invested in areas that the user wanted and what is important to photography. The direct ISO button and solving the IR filter issue are two worthwhile improvements.”

Specifications:

Camera type Compact digital view and rangefinder system camera.
Lens attachment Leica M bayonet with additional sensor for 6-bit coding.
Lens system Leica M lenses from 16 to 135 mm.
Picture format/ Image sensor
5270 x 3516 pixels (18.5 Megapixel) CCD chip, active area approx. 23.9 x 35.8 mm 5212 x 3472 pixels (18 Megapixel), (corresponding to usable format of analog Leica M models).
Resolution Adjustable, DNG™: 5212 x 3472 pixels (18 Megapixel), JPEG: 5212 x 3472 (18 Megapixel), 3840 x 2592 (10 Megapixel), 2592 x 1728 (4,5 Megapixel), 1728 x 1152 (2 Megapixel), 1280 x 846 pixels (1 Megapixel).
Data formats DNG™ (raw data), choice of uncompressed or slightly compressed (by non-linear reduction of color depth), 2 JPEG compression levels.
File size DNG: 18 MB (compressed)/36 MB (uncompressed), JPEG: approx. 2–10 MB.
Color spaces Adobe® RGB, sRGB.
White balance Automatic, manual, 7 presets, color temperature selection.
Storage medium SD cards up to 2GB/SDHC cards up to 32GB.
Menu languages German, English, French, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Russian.
Compatibility Windows® XP/Vista®; Mac® OS X (10.5).
Exposure metering Exposure metering through the lens (TTL), center-weighted with working aperture. Center-weighted TTL metering for flash exposure with system-compatible SCA-3000/2 standard flash units.
Measurement principle Measured by light reflected by bright shutter blades on the first shutter curtain.
Metering range (at ISO 160/23°) At room temperature and normal humidity corresponds to EV 0 to 20 or f/1.0 and 1.2 s to f/32 and
1/1000 s. Flashing left triangular LED in viewfinder indicates values below metering range.
Measurement cell for available light (continuous light measurement) Silicon photo diode with condensing lens, positioned in the bottom center of the camera base.
Sensitivity range ISO 80/19° to ISO 2500/35°, adjustable in 1/3 ISO increments, with aperture priority A and manual exposure setting, choice of automatic control or manual setting, automatic control with snapshot profile.
Exposure mode Choice of automatic shutter speed control with manual aperture selection – aperture priority A – with corresponding digital display, or manual setting of shutter speed and aperture and adjustment using LED light balance with indication of correct
exposure, or risk of overexposure/camera shake (with snapshot profile only).
Flash exposure control Flash unit connection Via accessory shoe with center and control contacts.
Synchronization Optional synchronization on first or second shutter curtain.
Flash sync speed = 1/180 s; longer shutter speeds possible.
Flash exposure metering (with SCA-3501/3502 adapter or SCA-3000 standard flash unit, e.g. Leica SF 24D/Leica SF 58). Control with centerweighted TTL-pre-flash metering.
Flash measurement cell 2 silicon photo diodes with condensing lens in camera base.
Flash exposure compensation ±3 1/3 EV in 1/3 EV steps adjustable on the SCA-3501/3502 adapter. On Leica SF 24D, ±3 EV in 1/3 EV- steps with
computer control, or from 0 to –3 EV in 1 EV-steps/on Leica SF 58 adjustable in all modes ±3 EV in 1/3 EV-steps.
Displays in flash mode Flash readiness: flash symbol LED in viewfinder constant. Correct flash exposure: LED constant or flashes rapidly after exposure. Underexposure: LED extinguished after exposure.
Viewfinder
Viewfinder principle Large, bright-line frame viewfinder with automatic parallax compensation.
Eyepiece Adjusted to -0.5 dpt. Correction lenses from -3 to +3 dpt. available.
Image framing By activating two bright-line frames: For 35 and 135 mm, 28 and 90 mm, or for 50 and 75 mm. Automatic activation when lens is attached. Any pair of bright-line frames can be activated using the image field selector.
Parallax compensation The horizontal and vertical difference between the viewfinder and the lens is automatically compensated according to the relevant distance setting, i.e. the viewfinder bright-line automatically aligns with the subject detail recorded by the lens.
Matching of viewfinder and actual picture
The size of the bright-line frame corresponds exactly to the sensor size of approx. 23.9 x 35.8 mm at a setting distance of 1 meter. At infinity setting, depending on the focal length, approx. 7.3 % (28 mm) to 18 % (135 mm) more is recorded by the sensor than indicated by the corresponding bright-line frame and slightly less for distances shorter than 1m.
Enlargement (for all lenses) 0.68x.
Large basis rangefinder Split or superimposed image range finder shown as a bright field in the center of the viewfinder image.
Effective rangefinder base 47.1 mm (actual rangefinder base 69.25 mm x viewfinder enlargement 0.68x).
Displays
Viewfinder (lower edge) LED symbol for flash status. Four-digit seven-segment digital display with dots above and below, display brightness adjusted for ambient brightness, for: Warning of exposure compensation, display for automatically generated shutter
speeds in aperture priority mode, indication of use of metering memory lock, warning that the metering or setting ranges are over- or underexposed using aperture priority and counting down exposures longer than 2s.
LED light balance with two triangular and one central circular LED for manual exposure setting. The triangular LEDs give the direction of rotation of the aperture setting ring and shutter speed setting dial to adjust the exposure. Also as warning for over- or underexposure.
On rear panel 2,5” monitor (color TFT LCD) with 230,000 pixels.
Shutter and release Shutter Microprocessor-controlled, exceptionally low-noise metal blade shutter with vertical movement.
Shutter speeds For aperture priority (A) continuously adjustable from 32 s to 1/4000 s. For manual setting 8 s to 1/4000 s in half steps, B for long exposures of any duration (in conjunction with self timer T function, i. e. 1st release = shutter opens, 2nd release
= shutter closes), (1/180 s) fastest shutter speed for flash synchronization.
Shutter cocking Using low-noise integral motor, optionally after releasing the shutter release button.
Series exposures Approx. 2 pictures/s, ≤ 8 pictures in series.
Shutter release Three levels: Exposure metering on – Metering memory lock (in aperture priority mode) – Shutter release. Integrated standard cable release thread.
Self timer Delay optionally 2 (aperture priority and manual exposure setting) or 12 s (menu setting), indicated by flashing LED on front of camera and corresponding display on the monitor.
Switching the camera on/off Using the main switch on the camera’s top panel, selectable automatic power-off for camera electronics after about 2/5/10 minutes, reactivation by pressing the shutter release button.
Power supply 1 lithium ion battery, nominal voltage 3.7 V, capacity 1900 mAh. Capacity display in monitor, when shutter held open (for sensor cleaning) additional acoustic warning when capacity is low.
Charger Inputs: 100–240 V AC, 50/60Hz, automatic switching, or 12/24 V DC; Output: 4.2V DC, 800 mA.
Camera housing Material All-metal die cast magnesium body, KTL dip painted, synthetic leather covering. Top deck and baseplate in brass, black, or steel-grey paint finish.
Image field selector Allows the bright-line pairs to be manually displayed at any time (e. g. for framing comparisons).
Tripod thread Stainless steel, A 1/4 (1/4’’) DIN, in baseplate.
Operating conditions 0 to +40°C
Interface 5-pin mini-USB 2.0 High-Speed socket for fast data transfer.
Dimensions (Width x Depth x Height) approx. 139 x 37 x 80 mm (5 1/2 x 11/2 x 3 1/6 in.).
Weight 585 g (19.8 oz) (with battery).
Included extras Charger 100–240 V with 2 mains cables (EU, USA, different in some export markets) and 1 car charger, lithium ion battery,
USB cable, carrying strap.