DESIGN /
DIGITAL
June 18, 2015
The "Leica Q," a New Compact Digital Camera with Superb Lens Performance | LEICA
LEICA | Leica
Equipped with a Full-Frame Sensor and a High-Performance, Bright Lens
Leica Announces New Compact Digital Camera Series, the Leica Q
Leica will launch the Leica Q, a compact digital camera featuring the brightest, highest-performance lens in its class, the "Leica Summilux f/1.7/28mm ASPH.," and a full-frame sensor, on Saturday, June 20, 2015. The combination of a bright lens and a full-frame sensor allows for creative imaging with control over depth of field.
Text by KAJII Makoto (OPENERS)
Beautiful Rendering Even in Constant Light
The 24-megapixel 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor in the Leica Q is designed for optimal matching with the lens, delivering exceptional detail and rich tonal gradations, even in high-sensitivity shooting, while minimizing noise. The ISO sensitivity can be set up to 50,000.
Furthermore, the Leica Q boasts the fastest autofocus in its class for a compact camera with a full-frame sensor. It features an image processing engine optimized for the Leica Q, based on the "LEICA MAESTRO II" processor, which is also slated for the new medium-format SLR camera, the Leica S (Typ 007). This engine processes information captured by the image sensor at ultra-high speeds, enabling continuous shooting of up to 10 frames per second at maximum resolution. It also incorporates a high-resolution, responsive 3.68-million-dot electronic viewfinder, allowing for instantaneous and precise framing of subjects.
The 28mm focal length allows for natural perspective, making it ideal for street photography, as well as architectural and landscape shots. The camera also features a macro mode that can be manually switched to allow close-up focusing up to 17cm, and smooth switching between manual and autofocus on the lens barrel, offering intuitive operability.
The Leica Q also features full HD video recording capabilities, enabling professional-grade, high-quality video capture. The lens, known for its exceptional brightness and beautiful bokeh, performs brilliantly in video recording as well.
A Body That Balances Functionality and Form
In line with Leica's tradition of stripping away the superfluous to pursue the essential, the Leica Q's body boasts a simple, high-quality design. True to its "Made in Germany" designation, it uses only highly durable materials. The top cover is milled from a solid aluminum block, and the body is constructed from magnesium alloy.
The lettering on the controls and the numbers on the shutter dial are laser-engraved. A thumb rest is integrated into the back, and the leather exterior features a micro-diamond pattern to enhance grip, ensuring comfortable operation.
A Diverse Range of Accessories to Note
The Leica Q is complemented by a wide array of accessories designed to enhance your photographic life, including a rapid-load case made of premium black leather, a leather holster, a protector, a day bag capable of storing the camera, a tablet, and other small items, as well as system bags in various sizes, and hand and carrying straps.
Convenient shooting accessories include the external flash unit "Leica SF 26," a handgrip, and tabletop and traveler tripods, all featuring functional designs for ease of use.
Compact Digital Camera "Leica Q (Typ 116)"
Release Date | Saturday, June 20, 2015
Price | ¥586,440
Dimensions | Approx. W130 x H80 x D93mm
Weight | Approx. 640g (including battery)
Image Sensor | Full-frame CMOS sensor
Total Pixels | Effective pixels: Approx. 24 million pixels
LCD Monitor | 3.0-inch TFT touch panel LCD monitor, Approx. 1.04 million dots
Leica Camera Japan
Tel. +81-3-5221-9501
http://www.leica-camera.co.jp