Create Your Own Masterpieces with the Leica X1's Manual Controls

The "Leica X1" is a compact camera, released in 2009, meticulously crafted in Germany. It is available in two colors: steel gray and black.

The first point worth noting is the size of the image sensor. While the pixel count of 12.2 megapixels is average for today's digital cameras, the large "APS-C" size sensor, typically found in semi-professional digital SLRs, allows for exceptional image quality, including beautiful background bokeh and reduced noise.

The lens is a prime lens, the Leica Elmarit f2.8 / 24 mm ASPH. It captures a relatively wide angle at a focal length of 35mm (equivalent to a 35mm film format), often used in reportage photography. It excels at rendering fine details when close to the subject and provides ample bokeh to make the subject stand out.

The camera's simple operation is also a key appeal. With dials for shutter speed and aperture, essential for serious photography, you can intuitively set the exposure while looking at the LCD. Of course, automatic settings are also possible, but with the Leica X1, you'll want to enjoy manual shooting.

The Titanium Leica D-LUX 5: A Sense of Substance

Meanwhile, the "Leica D-LUX 5," which released a special titanium-finished model this October, is a popular series for those looking to enjoy Leica more casually. Although slightly smaller than the Leica X1, it features a zoom lens with a 3x optical zoom (equivalent to 24-90mm in 35mm format) and a newly developed 1/1.63-inch CCD sensor, which is large for its class. It allows for detailed architectural photography and close-up shots as near as 1cm. It can also capture images as intended, even in low-light conditions like dusk.

Its simple and intuitive operation is also a charm.
The top dial allows selection of modes such as Auto, Aperture Priority, and Shutter Priority. While it lacks physical dials like the Leica X1, manual exposure shooting is possible, and the rear click wheel can be used to adjust aperture and shutter speed. Furthermore, manual focus control is also available, offering the pleasure of manipulating the functions to your liking. This titanium version also comes with a leather case.

Both the Leica X1 and Leica D-LUX 5 come bundled with "Photoshop Lightroom 3," which normally costs over 30,000 yen when purchased separately. This software allows for detailed image management, enabling you to perfect your photos with precise control over white balance, exposure, sharpness, tone, and saturation.

Leica's robust and unpretentious form, as if proud of its own capabilities, continues to captivate us.
Regardless of how the photographic landscape changes, the brand's power remains unshaken. It offers not only functions backed by tradition but also a tangible presence as an object, much like a timepiece from a venerable Swiss watchmaker. Such products are rare indeed.


Leica X1
12.2 Megapixels
APS-C Size CMOS Sensor
Included Accessories | Image Processing Software "Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® 3" (Download)
Price | Open Price (Direct Store Price | ¥210,000)

Leica D-LUX 5 Titanium
10.1 Megapixels
3-inch 460,000-dot LCD Monitor
Included Accessories | Image Processing Software "Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom® 3" (Download)
Price | Open Price (Direct Store Price | ¥115,500)