Leica SL3 Mirrorless Camera
Leica SL3 Body
The new Leica SL3 Mirrorless Camera is complete with cutting-edge image technology, impressive craftsmanship, and an interface created with creators in mind. The camera has an all-new high-resolution 60/36/18-megapixel full-frame sensor, helping your photos come out sharp and detailed. Plus, the camera’s touchscreen interface makes it easy to use, and its built-in image stabilization makes sure photographers can take smooth, shake-free shots even in low light settings.
Hands-On Review from Leitz-Park
Stepping into Leitz-Park in Wetzlar, Germany is like entering any Leica fan’s ultimate dream world where technology and craftsmanship reign supreme. Recently, I had the privilege of journeying through the heart of Leica’s heritage at Leitz Park. From seeing the Leica archives to the unveiling of the much-anticipated Leica SL3 Mirrorless Full Frame Camera, every moment was filled with excitement about the past and the future of innovation.
New Full-Frame CMOS Sensor with Triple-Res Technology
Within the heart of the Leica SL3 Mirrorless Camera is the BSI CMOS full-frame sensor, topped off with Triple Resolution Technology. The sensor is wrapped in an all-metal frame and high-quality leather. This sensor offers versatility like no other, delivering files in either DNG or JPEG format, with resolutions selectable at 60, 36, or 18 megapixels — you choose!
The Leica SL3 Mirrorless Camera is made to excel in every lighting scenario you use it in, with a high dynamic range extending to an impressive 15 f-stops, ensuring a beautiful rendition of details anytime, anywhere. It has a remarkable ISO range, spanning from 50 to 100,000. Such a big range to work with empowers photographers to capture stunningly detailed images in the soft glow of dusk or the glare of the midday sun.
New Autofocus System
An advanced autofocus system is another distinguishing factor of the Leica SL3 Mirrorless Camera. The hybrid AF system has three technologies to ensure sharp photos, even in low light: phase detection (PDAF), depth mapping (Object Detection AF), and contrast recognition (Contrast Detection AF).
PDAF detects the phase differences in light to achieve precise focus in a short span of time, while Object Detection AF scans for the depth of the scene to accurately determine focus points. Finally, Contrast Detection AF helps ensure sharpness by identifying the different contrast levels in the shot.
With its innovative design and intelligent subject recognition, the camera can quickly identify and track moving subjects, making it easier to capture dynamic scenes with clarity.
Versatility for Wherever You Go
Featuring a lens bayonet based on the L-Mount standard developed by Leica, the Leica SL3 Mirrorless Camera has compatibility with many lenses from various Leica camera systems. It also works seamlessly with ultra-wide to super-telephoto zoom lenses offered by L-Mount alliance partners, providing users with a lot of options.
Additionally, the Leica SL3 Mirrorless Camera maximizes the potential of the renowned Leica M-Lenses, which is thanks to its unique image sensor design and external light sensor. Additionally, the camera’s integrated in-body image stabilization expands the versatility of M-Lenses, allowing for steady shots on the go.
The integrated in-body image stabilization further broadens the scope of application for M-Lenses.
Screens
The EyeRes® viewfinder of the Leica SL3 Mirrorless Camera is equipped with an elaborately manufactured optical system made of glass lenses. It always shows the subject crystal clear with up to 120 frames per second and a resolution of 5.76 million pixels.
Another new feature is the tiltable 3-inch high-res touchscreen with a high-quality tilting mechanism. Even more creative possibilities can be achieved thanks to its additional viewing angles.
Video
The Leica SL3 Mirrorless Camera offers a stunning resolution of up to 8K, supported by codecs like H.265 and ProRes by Apple. This ensures high-quality video files with excellent compression. Professionals will surely appreciate the dedicated time code interface, helping the precise synchronization of image and sound during shoots.
Powering these impressive features is the new Maestro-IV processor with L2 technology, which is great at handling large volumes of data. All these features and parts ensure your videos have vibrant colors and minimal noise, no matter where you are.
UI Design
To provide a better experience for photographers, the Leica SL3 introduces a fresh user interface. Leica has developed a new grip, button layout, and camera design to make handling the camera easier. With its organized structure, the new icons and menus are easy to find and understand.
One standout feature is the clear distinction between photo and video modes, by using a color code system: red for photo mode and yellow for video mode. Additionally, the interface automatically changes to landscape or portrait orientation based on how you’re holding the camera. Just a simple tilt and the camera will shift to your desired orientation, ensuring a seamless experience no matter the shooting position.
Durability & Ergonomics
To help photographers withstand various weather conditions and environments, Leica built the SL3 with convenience, durability, and comfort in mind. With its improved ergonomics, top-tier design, and IP54 certification, the camera offers protection against dust and splashing water. It’s your best companion on an adventure!
The camera’s operating conditions range from -10 to 40 degrees Celsius (14 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit), allowing it to function effectively in a wide range of temperatures, an important feature as temperatures can affect a camera’s performance and battery life.
Interfaces
This new camera comes with better connectivity features and slots for CFexpress type B and UHS-II SD cards. The USB-C port enables high-speed data transfer, tethering, and power supply, while the full-size HDMI 2.1 output lets you connect external monitors or recording devices for better viewing or capturing.
Moreover, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, equipped with MIMO technology, provide a stable and speedy connection to the Leica FOTOS app, enhancing your ability to share and control your camera remotely. The SL3 is a certified “made for iPhone and iPad” product by Apple, so you can transfer and manage your files to and from your iOS devices.
Features
- Full-Frame CMOS Sensor with Triple Resolution Technology 60/30/18 MP
- ISO range from 50 to 100.000
- New Hybrid AF-System
- Maestro IV Processor with L2 Technology with 8GB of buffer memory
- Optimized user interface
- Full metal housing with IP54 certification
- EyeRes®5.76 Mio. dots OLED-Viewfinder with up to 120fps
- Optimized ergonomics, size, and less weight
- Tiltable high-res touchscreen
- Timecode Interface
- Record up to 8K with codecs H.265 and ProRes by Apple
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