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The much anticipated Panasonic GH6 is finally here! But what does this new flagship camera offer, and can it really improve on the best-selling GH5? We find out in our review of the Panasonic Lumix GH6 mirrorless camera, complete with sample photos, test shots, videos and more...
Over 18 months since it was first announced at Photokina 2018, Leica have finally officially unveiled the new S3 medium format camera.
The Leica S3 is a 64 megapixel medium format camera offering a 71 percent increase in resolution, a dynamic range of 15 stops and a maximum ISO sensitivity setting of 50,000. For the first time, the Leica S3 supports 4K cinema resolution video recording with 48 kHz, 16-bit stereo sound.
The Leica S3 will be available online and in-store from 6th March 2020 for RRP £16,500 / $18,995.
The Panasonic S1 is the more sensibly specced and sensibly priced sibling of the flagship S1R full-frame mirrorless camera. It lowers the number of megapixels whilst upping the video capabilities, promising a more well-rounded camera at a more affordable price-point. Does the new Lumix S1 have what it takes to compete with the likes of the Sony A7 III, Nikon Z6 and Canon EOS R? Read our detailed Panasonic S1 review to find out...
Panasonic has announced two mirrorless camera models with a 35mm full-frame image sensor - the Panasonic S1R and the Panasonic S1. The 47 megapixel S1R and the 24 megapixel S1 both feature 4K 60p/50p video recording, a new Venus image processing engine, Dual I.S. image stabilisation, a double slot for XQD memory cards and SD memory cards, and a triaxial tilt LCD screen.
In a very interesting move, Panasonic are using the Leica L-Mount standard for the S1R and S1 cameras. Panasonic will release three Lumix S Series compatible lenses at the same time as the launch of the S1R and S1 cameras - the 50mm F1.4 prime lens, 24-105mm F4 standard zoom lens, and 70-200mm F4 telephoto zoom lens - and seven more by the end of 2020. Panasonic have also partnered with Leica and Sigma to develop more L-mount lenses.
Both the S1R and S1 cameras will have HLG Photo Mode and High Resolution Mode. The former mode allows images to be shot with a wider dynamic range, whilst the latter takes eight consecutive images that are automatically shot while shifting the sensor and synthesized into a single image.
Leica Camera have made five exciting announcements at Photokina 2018, including a groundbreaking, industry-setting L-mount, a new mobile application, Leica FOTOS, the Leica S3, firmware updates and a new color option for the Leica CL.
Panasonic have enjoyed a lot of success with the video-centric GH5 camera, and now they've turned their attention to the enthusiast and professional stills photographer with the release of the exciting new G9. Read our in-depth Panasonic G9 review now to find out more...
Leica has found a fix for the faulty auto-focus drive units built into some of their S-system lenses. The company is now offering a free replacement of the autofocus drive unit of the affected lenses "within the terms of a goodwill arrangement." This goodwill arrangement will remain valid for a period of five years from the date of purchase of the respective S-lens. Users can send their defective lenses directly to Leica’s Customer Care or the authorised Customer Care department of their country’s Leica subsidiary.
Leica have created a new Professional Business Unit, which has been designed to expand and combine integrated product solutions and innovative applications for professional photography and video production. From 1 September, Stephan Schulz (pictured) assumed the function of "Global Director Business Unit Professional" and is now responsible for the activities of this new unit, which combines marketing and sales activities in the business-to-business sector. This includes the Leica S medium-format system, the mirrorless Leica SL-System and the entire product portfolio of Sinar, a leading manufacturer of view cameras. In addition to this, the newly created business unit will also strengthen the strategic collaboration with Leica affiliate, CW Sonderoptic, which manufactures cine lenses for film and TV production that are marketed under the Leica brand name.
Within the next 18 months, Leica SL photographers can look forward to the expansion of the SL lens portfolio with the addition of an ultra-wide zoom and four prime lenses. The Leica Summilux-SL 50mm f/1.4 ASPH. is scheduled to be available in January 2017 at a suggested retail price of £3,850 including VAT. This will be followed by the Leica APO-Summicron-SL 75mm f/2 ASPH. in Summer 2017. The Leica APO-Summicron-SL 90mm f/2 ASPH. and the Leica Super-Vario-Elmar-SL 16-35mm f/3.5-4.5 ASPH. are scheduled for Autumn and Winter 2017 respectively, followed by the Leica Summicron-SL 35mm f/2 ASPH. in Spring 2018. Pricing will be announced nearer to each launch date. The Leica SL Handgrip is available now in the UK at a suggested retail price of £600 including VAT.
The Panasonic LEICA DG VARIO-ELMAR 100-400mm f/4.0-6.3 ASPH Power O.I.S. is a brand new super telephoto lens for the Micro Four Thirds system of interchangeable lens cameras. Offering an effective focal range of 200-800mm in 35mm terms, the Panasonic 100-400mm lens somehow still weighs less than 1kg. Read our Panasonic 100-400mm review to find out if it offers enough to entice avid bird, wildlife and sports photographers...
Leica UK and the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) have announced that all backstage reportage and portraiture at this year’s EE British Academy Film Awards will be captured exclusively by photographers using Leica equipment. “It is a massive coup for BAFTA to be able to fully realise its backstage photography with such an iconic brand,” said Janette Dalley, Photography Director, BAFTA. “These areas are at best ‘challenging’ for any photographer, and with the added time pressure involved on awards night, having the best possible start is paramount. I very much look forward to seeing the results.”
Leica has announced a partnership with Pro Centre in the UK, providing a rental and sales service for its professional product portfolio. Renny Lee, managing director, Pro Centre, said, “We’re thrilled that Leica has chosen Pro Centre as its rental partner for its premium S-System, SL and M ranges. Having served the pro community for 28 years, customers know that they can count on our reliability and efficiency. The addition of the Leica portfolio gives our customers the opportunity to rent the highest-performance camera and lens technology available on the market, while benefitting from the ultimate service and support from our expert team.” Pro Centre is located at 14 Union Walk, London, E2 8HP.
The Lumix DMC-FZ330 (also known as the FZ300) is Panasonic's latest super-zoom compact camera. Stand-out features of the weather-proof FZ330 include a 24x zoom lens with a constant aperture of f/2.8 throughout the 25-600mm range, 5-Axis Hybrid O.I.S + system, 4K movie recording, high-resolution LCD touchscreen and EVF, fast auto-focusing, 12fps burst shooting, RAW file support and a 12 megapixel MOS image sensor. Read our expert Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ330 review now...
The Leica S (Typ 007) medium format camera combines outstanding image quality with maximum speed and flawless handling. The new Leica S brings together maximum burst rate, exceptional sensor sensitivity and an extensive range of capture modes for photos and – for the first time – video footage. With a burst frequency of up to 3.5 frames per second, full-HD video in full-frame medium format sensor size, 4K video recording in Super 35 format, fast Live View mode and exceptional image quality at all ISO settings, the Leica S (Typ 007) reinforces its status as the benchmark in the medium format category.
The Leica S (Typ 007) is available in the UK from selected Leica stockists, at a suggested retail price of £12,900 including VAT, and in the US it's priced at $16,900.
The Leica Q (Typ 116) is a new serious compact camera, offering a 24 megapixel full-frame sensor, 1080 60/30p HD video recording, fast f/1.7 28mm lens, 10fps burst shooting, EVF and a 3-inch touchscreen. Read our in-depth Leica Q (Typ 116) review now...
Leica Camera UK are displaying their current line-up of products, including the Leica M-P and M-A, at The Photography Show. The company is offering visitors to their stand in Hall 5 an exclusive ‘complimentary 48 Hour test drive’ at participating dealers nationwide, normally £80. In the booth, Leica experts are on hand to demonstrate visitors the latest from Leica and answer any questions.Today's programme includes a demonstration by Wayne Johns, a conversation with Richard Seymour, and an opportunity to try out the Leica S-Sytem in a studio setting, with a professional model. Click through / scroll down for the detailed schedule.
The Leica S (Type 007) is the new top model of the Leica S-System. With a burst frequency of up to 3.5 frames per second, full-HD video in full-frame medium-format sensor size and 4K video recording, fast Live View mode and exceptional imaging quality at all ISO settings, the Leica S (Type 007) once again documents its status as the benchmark in the medium-format segment. The launch of the Leica S (Type 007) is planned for spring 2015; £18,720.00 RRP
The Leica S-E is the entry-level model in the Leica S medium-format system. The Leica S-E provides practically all technical advantages of the Leica S (Type 006) and presents an attractive alternative within the Leica S-System. The new colour scheme, with a top deck in anthracite grey paint and a silver anodised shutter speed dial, adds even more to its attraction.
The Leica S-E will retail at £12,480 RRP and will be available from September 2014 from Leica Store Mayfair, Leica Store Burlington and selected Leica dealers.
Leica has announced new firmware updates for the Leica S-System. FW 2.4.0.0, the firmware update for the LeicaS (Type 006), optimises numerous functions, considerably improves the performance of the camera and all Leica S-Lenses and represents the most comprehensive firmware update since the launch of the Leica S-System. The firmware updates for the LeicaS (FW 2.4.0.0.) and Leica S2/S2-P (FW 1.4.0.0.) cameras also support the Leica Summicron-S 100 mm f/2 ASPH.
The Leica Summicron-S 2/100 mm ASPH. is a fast short telephoto lens for the Leica S system. Designed for portrait, glamour and available-light photography, the Leica Summicron-S 2/100 mm ASPH. features 7 elements in 5 groups and a maximum aperture of f/2. The dust- and splashproof lens has a close-focus point of 70cm and weighs in at 910g. Available from mid-September, the Leica Summicron-S 2/100 mm ASPH. has an RRP of €6,500.
Via Photoscala
On Monday, Leica finalised the acquisition of Sinar Photography, the Swiss manufacturer of view cameras, lenses, digital backs and shutter systems. Marketing, product management, support, development and production will remain in the hands of Sinar in Switzerland. Sales and distribution of the product portfolio will be handled by Leica and the worldwide dealer network of Sinar Photography. Leica now possesses a complete product portfolio from a medium format digital camera system to digital view cameras and, as a result of the takeover, is now the only full-range provider of digital camera systems in formats larger than 35mm full frame. The financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed.
The Leica-Elmarit-S 45 mm f/2.8 ASPH. is a new wide-angle lens for the Leica S-System. Available with or without a central (leaf) shutter, the Leica-Elmarit-S 45 mm f/2.8 ASPH. has an optical formula comprising 12 elements in 9 groups, a focusing range of 60cm to infinity, and a diagonal angle of view of 62 degrees. Three lens elements made from glass with anomalous partial dispersion minimise chromatic aberrations, and two further elements are manufactured from glass with particularly low dispersion. An additional lens element with an aspherical surface minimises monochromatic aberrations. Thanks to its extremely elaborate optical design and construction, the lens also offers excellent control of flare to ensure high-contrast images, even when shooting a backlit subject. The suggested retail price for the Leica Elmarit-S 45 mm f/2.8 ASPH. without an integrated leaf shutter is £4,650; the SRP for the central shutter (CS) versionof the lens is £5,500.
Leica today announced the new Leica S-Adapter C for the Leica S medium format system. "This adapter now permits the use of all lenses from the Contax 645 SLR system on Leica S, S2 and S2-P camera bodies," the company said in a statement. "This allows photographers to exploit the full potential of Contax 645 lenses and also expand their range of use." The Leica S-Adapter C supports all lens functions such as auto focus, manual focus with focus confirmation and automatic diaphragm control. The Leica S-Adapter C is now available from authorised Leica dealers. The suggested UK retail price is £1,400.
Leica and Rankin hosted a private viewing of images from the Leica ‘S Mag: The Rankin Issue’ at the Annroy Gallery in London, an exclusive invitation-only event which was attended by over 400 guests. Using only the Leica S-System camera (pictured), Rankin collaborated with nine individual hair stylists, to create a series of striking images and a collection of diverse fashion stories which are communicated across the latest 200-page edition of S Magazine. Rankin said: “I’d always thought it would be interesting to do a hair book – where you take hairdressers and you give them the opportunity to do anything they want.” He added: “It was a chance to collaborate with the people I really admire, but also people I knew had hidden talents that maybe hadn’t come out yet.”
Day One of the Photokina 2012 trade show has turned out to be just as busy as Day Zero, so once again don’t blame yourself if you are feeling a little overwhelmed, wondering if you’ve read everything that may be of interest to you. In order to help you find your way around all the announcements, hands-on previews and sample galleries, we have collected all the relevant info on one page, with links to the detailed articles.
Over the past 15 hours or so we have posted literally dozens of Photokina-related articles - mainly product announcements, hands-on photo galleries and sample images - that quickly filled up our first (and second) pages. So don’t blame yourself if you are feeling a little overwhelmed, wondering if you’ve read everything that may be of interest to you. In order to help you make sense of all the madness we have collected all the relevant info on one page, with links to the detailed articles.
Successor to the Leica S2, the new Leica S features the same 37.5-megapixel resolution but comes with a new image and sensor board that promises improved noise characteristics and an extended sensitivity range. In addition, the Leica S offers a range of new features - some of them unique -, predictive autofocus, integrated GPS, higher speed and enhanced handling. The Leica S is scheduled to be available in the UK at a suggested retail price of £16,000 including VAT from December 2012.
The Leica TS-APO-ELMAR-S 120 mm f/5.6 ASPH. is a telephoto lens for the Leica S system, featuring tilt-shift capabilities. Designed for still-life and product photography, the Leica TS-APO-ELMAR-S 120 mm f/5.6 ASPH. is an apochromatically corrected lens offering parallel shifts (shift, rise and fall) of up to 12 mm in all directions and tilting of the plane of focus (tilt and swing) by up to 8°. The Leica TS-APO-Elmar-S 120 mm f/5.6 ASPH. is scheduled to be available in the UK at a suggested retail price of £4,920 including VAT from January 2013.
The Leica Vario-Elmar-S 30-90 mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH. is the first zoom lens for the Leica S system. The range of focal lengths covered by the lens is equivalent to that of a 24-72mm zoom on a 35mm camera. The lens construction is based on 14 elements assembled in 4 groups. For a zoom construction, the lens achieves extraordinarily high contrast rendition and maximum resolution wide open the company claims. The Leica Vario-Elmar-S 30-90 mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH. is scheduled to be available in the UK at a suggested retail price of £7,380 including VAT from November 2012.
The Leica Super-Elmar-S 24mm f/3.5 ASPH. is a new superwide (19mm equivalent) lens for the Leica S system. With an optical formula comprising 12 elements in 10 groups, the Leica Super-Elmar-S 24mm f/3.5 ASPH. exhibits an extraordinarily high degree of freedom from distortion for such a wide-angle lens. Five of the lens elements are manufactured from glass with anomalous partial dispersion to prevent negative effects such as chromatic aberration. Two aspherical elements located behind the iris and the aspherical surface of the front lens minimise monochromatic aberrations. Thanks to the unusual construction of its focusing system, the Leica Super-Elmar-S 24 mm f/3.5 ASPH. offers extremely high image performance from the point of closest focus to infinity, the company says. The Leica Super-Elmar-S 24mm f/3.5 ASPH. is scheduled to be available in the UK at a suggested retail price of £5,330 including VAT from November 2012.
Leica today announced the opening of its extended retail premises encompassing three buildings in Mayfair, providing Leica customers with a range of premium services. At 27 Bruton Place, located just off Berkeley Square in Mayfair, Leica’s Client Care team offers expert advice tailored to photographers’ specific needs, as well as light repairs for camera and optics customers, and sensor-cleaning for Leica M- and S-System owners. Alongside this facility is Café Optik, providing a relaxed and friendly atmosphere to visitors. Additionally, a new rental service is also available on the ground floor: Rental-S. This service incorporates rental of Leica’s high performance S-System, as well as hire of Studio-S, a fully equipped studio that includes changing and make-up areas, hospitality and digital operator facilities.
Leica has launched the Leica S-Adapter H accesory, which allows all Hasselblad H-system lenses to be mounted on a Leica S2 camera body. The Hasselblad H-system features a total of 11 leaf shutter lenses with focal lengths from 28 to 300mm. 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, increasing 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 1/4000 of a second. The Leica S-Adapter H is available for £1,350.
Leica is expanding its Leica S medium-format system with five new central shutter (leaf shutter) lenses, with availability from October 2012. As promised at the launch of the system back in 2008, these lenses deliver a top shutter speed of 1/1000th of a second and enable flash synchronisation at all speeds. Compared to the body-integral focal-plane shutter of the Leica S2 camera, which boasts a top shutter speed of 1/4000th of a second but a rather slow flash sync speed of 1/125, the CS lenses offer a working range expanded by three f-stops, which in turn allows Leica S sytem users to be more creative with their flash photography. The lenses that will go on sale in October include the central-shutter versions of the Leica Elmarit-S 30mm f/2.8 ASPH. (£5,850) and Leica Summarit-S 35mm f/2.5 ASPH. (£5,515) wide-angle lenses, the Leica Summarit-S 70mm f/2.5 ASPH. (£4,365, pictured) standard lens, the Leica APO-Macro-Summarit-S 120mm f/2.5 (£5,975) tele-macro lens and the Leica APO-Tele-Elmar-S 180mm f/3.5 (£5,975) telephoto lens.
Leica has announced the expansion of its premises in Bruton Place, Mayfair. The Leica Store Mayfair (opened in September 2009) at 34 Bruton Place will continue to display and offer the entire range of Leica products. Above the store, the current Leica Akademie training facility will be expanded to encompass a second Akademie space, allowing the company to offer a wider range of training workshops, one-to-one product demonstrations, advice sessions and private consultations for its customers. In addition, Leica will open a dedicated Media Centre for members of the press, a complimentary café-style area for Leica owners, a service centre, a gallery of images created using Leica cameras and a fully equipped studio available to hire exclusively to photographers using the Leica S-System.
Leica has expanded its range of lenses for the Leica S-System with the new Leica Elmarit-S 30 mm f/2.8 ASPH., a wide-angle lens scheduled to be available from December. Equivalent to a 24mm lens in 35mm format, the Leica Elmarit-S 30 mm f/2.8 ASPH. has a diagonal angle of view of 84 degrees and features an optical formula that comprises 13 elements in 9 groups. Weighing in at 1060 grams, the lens comes with a rectangular hood and retails for $7,495 in the US, with UK pricing to be announced.
Leica has announced a range of adapters for the Leica S2 medium-format DSLR camera. The Leica S-Adapter V can be used for Hasselblad V System lenses, the Leica S-Adapter P67 for the Pentax 67 system lenses and the Leica S-Adapter M645 (pictured) for the lenses of the Mamiya 645 system. “As a result of being able to use third-party lenses on the Leica S2, photographers now have access to a wider selection of additional lenses, further increasing the S-System’s flexibility,” the company said in a statement. “Furthermore, photographers who already own lenses from the aforementioned systems can now use them on the Leica S2.” The UK suggested retail price of the Leica S-Adapter (all versions) is £525 including VAT.
Leica has released a new firmware update for the Leica S-System. Version 1.0.0.24 enables a multitude of enhanced camera functions, including lossless DNG compression, maximum exposure time of 125 seconds, shutter speed section in bulb mode, and a setting option for highlight and shadow level warnings.
Photokina is over for another 2 years, so we’ve looked back at some of the most notable products we have seen at the world’s biggest photography show.
Leica has a mid-sized stand in a corner of Hall 2.1, featuring the company’s M and S series products as well as its compact cameras. New products of note include the Leica M9 Titanium, displayed under glass with a matching Summicron
Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 ASPH. lens and accessories, an all-black version of the Leica X1, and the D-Lux 5 and V-Lux 2 compacts co-developed with Panasonic. Samples of all of these - excluding the M9 Titanium - are provided for people to try out. Visitors to the stand also have the chance of getting some hands-on time with current M series and S system cameras and lenses. In the back of the booth there is a gallery of large prints of photos taken by Leica photographers.
The Leica S-system has been chosen by fashion photographer Yves de Contades to create a unique set of photographs of some of the UK’s leading creative directors. Yves de Contades, who is also creative director of luxury brand magazine, International Life, approached forty leading creative gurus from the UK’s advertising and design industry with the question ‘What is your ultimate Fantasy Portrait?’ The results were an intoxicating mix of the quirky, the clever and the downright bizarre, from a digital robot, a spaceman bouncing through Piccadilly Circus to a dragon slaying ninja. Fantasy Portraits will be showcased at an invitation-only event at The Worx Studios in London on Thursday 10 June from 6pm - 9pm. Further venues are under consideration for display, due to popular demand. A selection of images will be available to view online from Tuesday 15 June at the website below.
Website: Fantasy Portraits
Leica has announced a partnership with UK celebrity and fashion photographer, John Wright, for the Leica S-system. As part of the agreement between Wright and Leica, photographers will be able to experience the S-system first hand through a series of activities including interviews and photographic sessions, and workshops at the Leica Store Mayfair ‘Studio S’. John will also use the camera for a number of high profile shoots throughout the year. John Wright said, “Leica is one of the premier camera manufacturers in the world and I’m delighted to have this opportunity to be involved with the S-system. My initial experiences have been extremely positive. Ease of use, reliability and incredible image resolution are all essential in my work, and the S2 has delivered in every department.”
Leica have started shipping the Leica S2, their all-new, larger-than-full-frame digital SLR camera. The first camera goes to Jim Rakete, a prominent photographer from Berlin, Germany. Rakete’s first contact with the S2 this year was such an intense experience that he spontaneously made the decision to buy into the S-system, the company says. “The S2 is a camera that embodies the best characteristics of good tools - it never tries to tell me what to do,” Rakete explains, adding, “It fits my hands like a glove, and doesn’t make any superfluous suggestions when I’m shooting. For me, it’s an absolute superlative in digital quality - for the first time in ages you can really feel the depth of focus in your shots.”
Website: Leica Dealer Locator
The Leica S2, which was originally scheduled to go on sale in the summer and later postponed until October, will apparently not hit the shelves before December. According to Amateur Photographer, Leica is citing unexpectedly high demand and says, ‘Orders for the system have been much higher than expected, and in order to meet this higher demand, we have decided to adapt the S-System production lines to enable a higher daily output.’ The new launch date is calendar week 50, i.e. mid-December.
The new Lumix DMC-GF1 camera seamlessly combines the image quality and features of a DSLR with the handling and ease-of-use of a compact - at least that's what Panasonic is trying to achieve. With a 12 megapixel sensor, 3 inch LCD, high-definition video and wealth of shooting modes for beginners and more advanced users, can the diminutive Panasonic GF1 live up to all the pre-release hype? Mark Goldstein discovers if this is THE camera of 2009...
Leica has joined many other premium brands and launched its own store in the UK. Selling the full Leica range of products including the newly announced Leica M9 digital rangefinder camera, the store is located in 34 Bruton Place, Mayfair situated between Old Bond Street and Berkeley Square, London W1. The Mayfair store is the latest development for the company following the opening of Leica stores in Tokyo, Berlin, Paris and Moscow. The Leica Store Mayfair facility is set to complement other Leica Dealers and grow the brand in the UK. Opening hours of the store will be 10.00 to 18.00 Monday to Friday, and 10.00 to 15.00 on Saturdays. If you can’t make it to the physical store, Leica have also just opened their virtual doors at www.leica-storemayfair.co.uk
In the wake of the recent price / availability announcements, Leica now unveiled the full specifications of the Leica S2 and four S-system lenses. The Leica S2 is a new interchangeable-lens DSLR with a sensor that is 56% bigger than a conventional “full-frame” imager. The first prototypes were shown to us at Photokina 2008, and availability is now slated for October 2009. Highlights include a 37.5-megapixel Kodak CCD with a claimed 12 stops of dynamic range, a metal focal-plane shutter with a maximum shutter speed of 1/4000 second, fast auto-focus, a large and high-eye-point TTL optical viewfinder with 0.86x magnification, interchangeable focusing screens, CompactFlash and SDHC compatibility, an HDMI port and a 3-inch rear screen with 460,000 pixels and optional sapphire glass. The Leica S2 will be available at an SRP of £15,996 from selected authorised dealers. The Leica S2-P, which includes the sapphire glass display and comes with a Platinum service package, is priced at £19,092.
Leica is joining many other premium brands and launching its own UK store in September 2009. The Leica facility will comprise a ground floor retail store showcasing and selling the full Leica range of products, first floor offices, a ‘Leica Akademie’ training and demonstration centre and a Leica S-System studio. The location will be in Bruton Place, Mayfair, situated between Old Bond Street and Berkeley Square, London W1. Opening hours of the store will be 10.00 to 18.00 Monday to Friday, and 10.00 to 15.00 on Saturdays. Office, training facilities and studio will be by appointment only.
The UK pricing and availability of the Leica S2 and a number of S system lenses have been unveiled! OK, sit down if you are not seated yet, take a deep breath… here we go: the body-only price is £15,996! And if you want a sapphire glass screen plus Platinum Service (whose details are to be announced), then expect to pay £19,092. The suggested retail prices of four Summarit-S lenses and their Central Shutter versions - which enable flash synchronisation at higher shutter speeds - have also been announced: they range from £3,096 to £5,160; with availability slated for October 2009. Read all the details after the break.
Website: Click here for our brief hands-on report and exclusive shots of the Leica S2
The Leica SF 58 is a new powerful flashgun for the M, R and S systems. The SF58 has a guide number of 58 and can cope with everything from subtle fill-in and indirect flash light using the tilt reflector, to decoupled flash operation in slave mode. It features a main reflector that is responsible for the indirect flash, and a secondary reflector that can be used to lighten up the dark areas. The Leica SF58 also has an integrated USB port for firmware updating.
The Panasonic DMC-FT1 is the company’s first waterproof, shockproof and dustproof digital camera. Featuring a 28mm wide angle lens, 4.6x optical zoom lens and high-definition movies in the new AVCHD Lite format, the Panasonic FT1 (also known as the DMC-TS1 in the USA) can be used underwater to a depth of up to 3 meters and is drop proof from a height up to 1.5m. In the UK, the Panasonic DMC-FT1 will be available from March in a choice of silver or blue for £329, with a 40m underwater housing also available. In the US, the DMC-TS1 will be available in silver, green or orange in April 2009 for $399.95.
The Panasonic DMC-FS25 is a new 12 megapixel camera with a 29mm, 5x zoom lens. The Panasonic FS25 features a 29mm Leica lens offering a focal range of 29-145mm. Other highlights of the Panasonic FS25 include the addition of AF tracking and Intelligent Exposure to Intelligent Auto mode, 3.0-inch 230,000 dot LCD screen, Photo Frame mode, and WVGA (848 x 480) movies. In the UK, the Panasonic DMC-FS25 will be available from April in a choice of black or silver for £219. In the US, the DMC-FS25 will be available in silver, black and gold for $249.95 in April 2009.
Photokina is over for another 2 years, so we’ve looked back at some of the most notable developments from the World’s biggest photography show.
Leica S System
Undoubtedly the greatest surprise of this year’s Photokina was Leica’s announcement of the new S system. The German manufacturer did not simply launch a new, high-resolution camera with an assortment of lenses to go with it. They did not simply introduce a new mount either. Instead they announced a completely new camera format, something that hasn’t happened since the debut of the FourThirds system five years ago.
The Leica S2 is a completely new digital SLR camera system, offering a 37 megapixel, 30x45mm sensor that’s 56% larger than full size 35mm. Designed from scratch in consultation with professional photographers, the Leica S2 does not use a conventional medium format or 35mm platform. The S2’ bespoke Kodak CCD sensor has enabled the Leica designers to produce the smallest camera in its class, sitting between the Canon EOS 5D and 1Ds Mk III DSLRs in size. The Leica “MAESTRO” image processor developed with Fujitsu specifically for the LEICA S2, allows the camera´s lenses, firmware and sensor to function at their optimum, producing market leading processing time and the highest level of picture quality with minimal energy output. Nine new lenses will be developed for the new Leica S-system.
Update 1: We have a gallery of 20 photos of the Leica S2 and assorted lenses, including an exclusive side-by-side comparison of Leica’s new DSLR with a Canon EOS 5D, and we’ve also posted our initial impressions of using the S2.
Update 2: Find out why the S2 is not called the S1, which parts of the S2 have been developed exclusively by Leica, and if the R10 will ever see the light of day - just click the continue link below…
The Panasonic FX100 is a 12.2 megapixel digital camera with a new 1/1.72-inch large CCD and 28mm wide-angle lens. The FX100 features the usual Panasonic Optical Image Stabiliser system and the Venus Engine III image-processing engine. Finished in a choice of either sleek silver metallic or cool black metallic, the sleekly styled Panasonic FX100 will be available from July.
Kodak UK Press Release
LONDON, and COLOGNE, Germany, September 25 – Eastman Kodak Company is extending its partnership with Leica Camera AG to provide image sensors for the newly announced LEICA M8. The new KODAK KAF-10500 image sensor was developed specifically for use with the M8, and marks Kodak’s second collaboration with Leica, building on the success of Kodak’s interaction with Leica on the LEICA DIGITAL-MODULE-R. The first digital camera to use the Leica viewfinder system, the LEICA M8 extends the Leica M series into the digital world. By working closely with Leica, Kodak designed and optimised the new image sensor to meet the demanding needs of Leica photographers. With a resolution of over 10 million pixels, the KAF-10500 continues Kodak’s legacy of offering high performance imaging devices that leverage Kodak’s Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) technology for low noise, high sensitivity, and wide dynamic range. Utilising a 6.8µm pixel architecture, the sensor uses an optimised microlens configuration to maximise centre to corner uniformity for improved image quality, particularly important for the broad incident light angles associated with M series lenses. The sensor also includes anti-blooming protection to prevent against image corruption during high light level conditions.
Panasonic Press Release
Panasonic today introduced the Lumix DMC-LX2, successor to the DMC-LX1, which has received high acclaim worldwide for its unique 16:9 wide CCD, plentiful functions, and smart design. The Panasonic DMC-LX2 inherits the f/2.8 28mm wide angle LEICA DC lens, 4x optical zoom (equivalent to 28mm to 112mm on a 35mm film camera) and MEGA O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer) system in addition to an enhanced CCD capable of 10.2-megapixels and larger 2.8 16:9 wide LCD. The Panasonic DMC-LX2 is unique in that it incorporates triple-wide features of 28 mm wide angle LEICA DC lens, 16:9 wide CCD and 16:9 wide LCD. Not only that, the L X2 is further distinguished from other cameras by its full manual controllability with a joystick allowing users to easily enjoy creative shooting. The DMC-LX2 also boasts Venus Engine III high performance image processing LSI to dramatically reduce the noise that challenged the predecessor, realizing image recording at max. ISO 1600 high sensitivity setting at full resolution.
Panasonic Press Release
The New Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ50 is a 10.1-Megapixel, 12x Optical Zoom Digital Camera Featuring Intelligent Image Stabilizer by MEGA O.I.S. and World’s First* Intelligent ISO Control
*For a digital still camera, as of July 19, 2006.
Panasonic today introduced the 10.1-megapixel LUMIX DMC-FZ50 with MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) featuring powerful 12x optical zoom (equivalent to 35 mm to 420 mm on a 35 mm film camera) f/2.8 LEICA DC lens, as a successor to the Panasonic DMC-FZ30, which has received high acclaim worldwide. The Panasonic DMC-FZ50 boasts a 10.1-megapixel high resolution CCD for its image sensor and Venus Engine III for the image processing LSI, making it possible to record a image at max. ISO 1600 high sensitivity setting at full resolution. Furthermore, by dramatically reducing the noise levels that challenged its predecessor, the Panasonic DMC-FZ50 is able to capture 10.1-megapixel full resolution images even in high sensitivity recording.
Panasonic Press Release
7.2-Megapixel Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FX07 with 28mm Wide-Angle LEICA DC Lens* Featuring Intelligent Image Stabilizer by MEGA O.I.S. and World’s First** Intelligent ISO Control
*35mm film camera equivalent.
**For a digital still camera, as of July 19, 2006.
Panasonic today introduced the new LUMIX DMC-FX07 7.2-megapixel, 28mm wide angle f/2.8 LEICA DC lens with 3.6x optical zoom (equivalent to 28mm to 102mm on a 35mm film camera) and DMC-FX50 cameras, both featuring an Intelligent Image Stabilizer by MEGA O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer) and Intelligent ISO control. The DMC-FX50 also newly incorporates a 3-inch large LCD whereas the DMC-FX07 pursues further compactness with a 2.5-inch LCD. Inheriting the highly valued 28mm LEICA DC lens in a compact body from its their predecessor, the DMC-FX50 / FX07 cameras allow users to enjoy the benefit of a wide angle lens when shooting indoor group portraits, expansive landscapes, or architectural scenes. To fight against the major cause of blurred images, Panasonic invented the MEGA O.I.S. system taking advantage of its superior lens technology to compensate for handshake – a feature which has long been incorporated into the LUMIX range of cameras. In addition, to also compensate for the other major cause of blurred images – movement of the subject – the FX50 / FX07 cameras are also equipped with the world’s first* Intelligent ISO Control (hereafter I.I.C.) and max. ISO 1250 high sensitivity recording at full resolution capabilities within the advanced image processing LSI Venus Engine III. When set to the I.I.C., the Venus Engine III detects the subject’s movement and adjusts the ISO setting and shutter speed to best suit the subject movement and the light condition automatically. Panasonic’s excellent image stabilizing system allows users to take clear, crisp images in any situation, leaving everything to the camera.
Panasonic Press Release
7.2-Megapixel Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FX50 with 28mm Wide-Angle LEICA DC Lens* Featuring Intelligent Image Stabilizer by MEGA O.I.S. and World’s First** Intelligent ISO Control
*35mm film camera equivalent.
**For a digital still camera, as of July 19, 2006.
Panasonic today introduced the new LUMIX DMC-FX50 7.2-megapixel, 28mm wide angle f/2.8 LEICA DC lens with 3.6x optical zoom (equivalent to 28mm to 102mm on a 35mm film camera) and DMC-FX07 cameras, both featuring an Intelligent Image Stabilizer by MEGA O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer) and Intelligent ISO control. The DMC-FX50 also newly incorporates a 3-inch large LCD whereas the DMC-FX07 pursues further compactness with a 2.5-inch LCD. Inheriting the highly valued 28mm LEICA DC lens in a compact body from its their predecessor, the DMC-FX50 / FX07 cameras allow users to enjoy the benefit of a wide angle lens when shooting indoor group portraits, expansive landscapes, or architectural scenes. To fight against the major cause of blurred images, Panasonic invented the MEGA O.I.S. system taking advantage of its superior lens technology to compensate for handshake – a feature which has long been incorporated into the LUMIX range of cameras. In addition, to also compensate for the other major cause of blurred images – movement of the subject – the FX50 / FX07 cameras are also equipped with the world’s first* Intelligent ISO Control (hereafter I.I.C.) and max. ISO 1250 high sensitivity recording at full resolution capabilities within the advanced image processing LSI Venus Engine III. When set to the I.I.C., the Venus Engine III detects the subject’s movement and adjusts the ISO setting and shutter speed to best suit the subject movement and the light condition automatically. Panasonic’s excellent image stabilizing system allows users to take clear, crisp images in any situation, leaving everything to the camera.
Panasonic Press Release
6-Megapixel Panasonic DMC-FX3 with LEICA DC Lens Featuring MEGA O.I.S. and Max. ISO 1600 High Sensitivity Mode
Panasonic today introduced the new LUMIX DMC-FX3, a 6-megapixel camera with f/2.8 3x optical zoom (equivalent to 35 mm to 105 mm on a 35 mm film camera) LEICA DC lens, featuring MEGA O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer) and max. ISO 1600 high sensitivity mode*.
Panasonic has long led the industry with its incorporation of an optical image stabilization system - MEGA O.I.S. - into even its compact range of cameras. This system produces no deterioration of picture quality and has now become a standard feature for all digital cameras in the market. Now the new Panasonic DMC-FX3 also benefits from a High Sensitivity mode* which allows shooting at a maximum sensitivity setting of ISO 1600*. This mode acts as another anti-blurring measure, in addition to the MEGA O.I.S. system on the DMC-FX3, by suppressing image blur which can be caused by the movement of subjects, and especially benefits indoor photography of children and pets at fast shutter speeds.