Leica V-LUX 1 Manual

LEICA DIGILUX 3
Unique Leica digital camera system_p. 16
LEICA V-LUX 1
New all-in-one class in the Leica portfolio_p. 22
LEICA D-LUX 3
Digital compact camera for creative
photography_p. 26
LEICA LENSES
New M high-performance lenses
for wide-angle applications_p. 14/15
91505 02/2006
LEICA M8
A dream comes true:
the digital M is here_p. 8
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04 INTERVIEW
Leica goes digital: Dr. Ralph Nebe and Stefan Daniel
on the Leica product strategy
06 DIGITAL CAMERAS
At a glance: All Leica digital cameras – their strengths,
their areas of application, their features
08 LEICA M8
A big hit: At photokina, Leica presents the first digital
ranging viewfinder camera
12 INTERVIEW
New from the ground up: Project Manager Otto Domes
on the challenge of designing the digital M
14 LEICA ELMARIT-M 28 mm/f2.8 ASPH.
New wide-angle lens: the super-compact Elmarit
as a versatile high-performance lens
15 LEICA TRI-ELMAR-M16–18–21 mm/f4 ASPH.
Super wide-angle: a new lens with three fixed focal
lengths for super wide-angle applications
16 LEICA DIGILUX 3
Tomorrow’s classic: the Digilux 3 as the foundation
of a free-standing digital camera system
Dear Leica friends,
These are the most exciting days for Leica since
the introduction of the landmark Leica M series
over half a century ago. We are unveiling an
entire range of unique new products, each a
classic in its own right. The new LEICA M8, the
centerpiece of the world’s first professional
digital rangefinder system, is a bold statement
destined to redefine the digital age. The new
LEICA DIGILUX 3, our first stand-alone digital
SLR and the first based on the optically effi-
cient four-thirds format and interchangeable
lens system is also a superb creative tool. The
cool new LEICA D-LUX 3 is the connoisseur’s
compact, an elegant, high-performance 10-megapixel compact capable of
outstanding performance. Finally, the new LEICA V-LUX 1, an amazingly
compact all-in-one 10-megapixel marvel with a 12x zoom that gets out to
420 mm, is sure to appeal to birdwatchers, nature shooters and travellers
worldwide. Is the message here ‘Leica goes digital’. Emphatically yes, but
we’re also committed to supporting (or even extend) analog photography
while bringing the esteemed Leica virtues of quality, durability, and value
into the digital realm. You might say that we’re remaining true to our roots,
but branching out. In any event, this is great news for legions of loyal Leica
fans who now have a wider range of enticing choices than ever – all in the
Leica tradition of excellence.
Yours faithfully, Ralph Nebe
26 LEICA D-LUX 3 Versatile digital compact camera
22 LEICA V-LUX 1 New class in the Leica camera sector
Dr. Ralph Nebe, Director
Marketing & Sales
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Leica World News 3
20 LEICA R SYSTEM
Camera, back part, lens: the Leica R system and its
superb possibilities
22 LEICA V-LUX 1
All-in-One: the V-Lux 1 enriches the Leica product
portfolio with a new camera type
26 LEICA D-LUX 3
A camera for all seasons: the D-Lux 3 is a compact
camera with the characteristics of a much larger camera
28 GLOSSARY
Digital technical terms: a guide to new terms
from the digital Leica world
29 RELAUNCH
Attractive appearance: Leica with a new product
website and a new advertising campaign
30 BIRDWATCHING
Perfect double act: Steve Dudley on is experience
with the V-Lux 1 and digiscoping
16 LEICA DIGILUX 3 Unique Leica camera system
08 LEICA M8 Leica’s famous camera system
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4Leica World News
BREAKTHROUGH INTO THE DIGITAL WORLD
Their names are M8, Digilux 3, V-Lux 1 and D-Lux 3: Leica Camera is currently bringing
no fewer than four new high-performance digital cameras to the market. A well-thought-
out range with something to offer for everyone. The question arises: has Leica gone
completely digital? Dr. Ralph Nebe and Stefan Daniel give us an insight into the strategy
of Leica Camera AG.
Dr. Nebe, the LEICA DIGITAL MODULE R
is completely ready to ship, the long
awaited LEICA M8 will be launched at
photokina together with a series of inno-
vative digital cameras in the compact
range. – Leica appears to have gone com-
pletely digital: is that fair comment?
Dr. Ralph Nebe: The dominant market trend
is certainly towards digital photography. It’s
also a fair comment to say that Leica is fully
committed to advancing digital photogra-
phy, without however neglecting analog
photography. Our over-arching objective is
to offer fascinating, and supremely compe-
tent digital products in every s category that
Leica enters.
Some critics have said that Leica did not
respond to the digital challenge quickly
or aggressively enough. What has hap-
pened lately to change that perception?
Dr. Ralph Nebe: Leica Camera has in fact
been through a difficult phase. We have
often been accused of being too late in rec-
ognizing the trend towards digital photogra-
phy. In fact a small company such as Leica
does not have sufficicent capacity to devel-
op all the necessary core technologies
itself, in the way that larger companies in
our sector have done. Now that digital pho-
tography is past its infancy, these core tech-
nologies are available on the world market in
the quality demanded by our customers and
we are now in the active process of incor-
porating them into our products.
In recent years the market for digital
cameras has expanded at breakneck pace,
but many potential Leica offerings in this
field are still being considered, or are
eventually released on a conservative
timetable. What good reasons are there
for choosing Leica in the digital field?
Stefan Daniel: It’s well known that Leica’s
trademark is better pictures. Leica lenses,
which stand up to any test in analog photog-
raphy, can now for the first time show what
they can do in digital applications. At Leica
it’s true of all our optics that we make no
distinction between lenses ‘suitable for dig-
ital’ and ‘only for analog’. Every Leica lens
delivers outstanding results, irrespective of
whether or not it is used for taking pictures
electronically. Furthermore, in focusing on
better pictures, Leica products address not
what is technically possible but what makes
technical sense.
In addition to the Digital-Modul-R that we
have mentioned, and the forthcoming
Leica M8, Leica is also launching the
LEICA V-LUX 1, the LEICA DIGILUX 3 and
the LEICA D-LUX 3 at photokina. Another
exciting new development is the ultra-
compact LEICA C-LUX 1 that has already
been launched. New products, new
names – is there a system to this new
range of cameras?
Dr. Ralph Nebe: Certainly. We have set our-
selves the ultimate objective of addressing a
wider range of customers than ever before!
The Leica C-Lux class stands for ultra-com-
pact cameras with intelligent automatic
functions, that simply make great pictures –
an optical notebook in effect. The Leica D-
Lux class offers manual controls similar to
those used to in larger cameras, to stimulate
the creativity of the photographer; but it is
still compact enough to be handy in all cir-
cumstances. The V-Lux class offers a great
deal of camera in a pure single-lens reflex
configuation and is thus ideal for ambitious
photography when travelling or whenever
there is a need to minimize the amount of
equipment one is carrying. Finally, the
LEICA DIGILUX 3 is the continuation of the
successful Digilux class, which stands for
creative photography at the highest level. It
is the foundation model for a new exclusive-
ly digital camera system, that positively rais-
es itself above its competitors in this prod-
uct class by virtue of its traditional,
well-proven operating concept and its out-
standing picture quality.
A highlight of this year’s photokina will
be the market launch of the long-awaited
LEICA M8 – the first digital M camera.
Why has this designation been chosen?
Isn’t the digital M really a completely new
product?
Dr. Ralph Nebe: The LEICA M8 is indeed a
completely new development, but it’s also
very important to realize that it is an emi-
nently logical extension of the long tradition
of M series Leica cameras which began in
1954. Basically for us the method of record-
ing the picture – analog or digital – is of sec-
ondary importance. The primary reality is
that this camera incorporates the core val-
ues of M series photography: the unique and
superlative rangeviewfinder system, the ex-
quisitely compact dimensions, discreet, qui-
et operation and cameras constructed of the
best materials that deliver the very highest
picture quality. To honor that tradition we
have therefore quite deliberately decided
against the designation ‘D’ or ‘digital’.
In discussion: Dr. Ralph Nebe (left) and
Stefan Daniel
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The market for digital cameras moves
extraordinarily quickly. To what extent
does the digital M incorporate traditional
Leica values such as long operating life
and holding its value?
Stefan Daniel: We have already noted that
digital photography has now emerged from
its infancy. We foresee that product life
cycles will now be significantly longer than
before--, say two to three years for top-tier
products. In fact a professional digital cam-
era has everything to allow it to deliver good
results even a few years from now. I would
say that the LEICA M8 is, like its predeces-
sors, ‘timeless’ and in a very real sense, the
first digital camera that merits this distinc-
tion. Its constructionuality amd perform-
ance are unsurpassed, it is designed to last
many years. We have chosen a CCD sensor
that will withstand deterioration over time
and its DNG standardized raw data format
will allowss open access to new operating
systems in the future. Above all there is the
consideration of system compatibility: any-
one who invests in LEICA M lenses knows
that this purchase will remain useful for many
years to come – maybe even generations.
What about the range of lenses: can I use
my existing M lenses in the new digital
world of the Leica M8, without loss of
quality?
Stefan Daniel: Leica has always placed
great value on ensuring that the years of
investment by our customer in their prized
lenses should not be compromised by obso-
lescence. Therefore we have adapted the
CCD sensor employing a whole set of meas-
ures such as the microlens offset, a set of
microlenses in front of the pixels that dis-
place the angle of incidence to accord with
that of M system lenses. For some months
now we have offered in addition the 6-bit
coding, which optimizes the performance of
current M lenses and can be added to most
previous M lenses. It also offers additional
advantages such as automatic compensa-
tion for vignetting, which was extremely dif-
ficult to combat when photographing with
film.
As well as the R and M series, Leica has
added a third line to the the digital range
with the Leica D system. How would you
describe this system in distinction with
the other Leica lens systems for digital
cameras?
Dr. Ralph Nebe: We see the well-proven R
and M systems as the tools of the working
professional photographer. The new LEICA
D system allow us to offer our know-how in
delivering superlative optical performance
for the highest picture quality to a wider
group of customers. Just as during the1970s
we launched the successful LEICA CL, now
the Digilux 3 offers the knowledgeable ama-
Leica World News 5
teur enthusiast photographer a route into
the world of LEICA system cameras.
How have the special lenses for the D
system been developed? Or to put it
another way: can Leica here once again
showcase its world class optical compe-
tence?
Stefan Daniel: The requirements for the
imaging performance of the D lenses and
also the tolerances for manufacture of these
lenses are subject to the usual Leica criteria
that apply also to M and R lenses. This has
enabled us to combine in an ideal fashion
the Panasonic know-how, for instance in the
area of optical image stabilization, with our
optics technology. This synergy has helped
generate very exciting new products, as you
can see by examining the first D lens, the
D 14–50mm.
The LEICA DIGILUX 2 is well loved by the
technical press and customers alike.
Which features would you particularly
draw attention to in its successor model?
Stefan Daniel: The Digilux 3, successor to
the Digilux 2, incorporates a major feature
earnestly requested by a large number of
our customers, namely interchangeable
lenses!. This capability is is certainly unique
in this class of cameras that retains the tra-
ditional ‘analog’ operating concept that
appeals to many users. In addition the new
model offers very useful functions, for
era in the range whose focal length extends
up 420 mm in 35 mm format and which
delivers the same magnification as 8.4-pow-
er binoculars. In this respect this is an out-
standing alternative to the first mentioned
solution. Leica is indeed the only manufac-
turer who can offer such a wide spectrum of
equipment for dedicated birdwatchers.
How would you describe the advantages
of the LEICA V-LUX 1 – or, put another
way – what are the special features of
this camera?
Stefan Daniel: The LEICA V-LUX 1 is a very
‘serious’ digital camera. It exploits the
advantages of digital technology in very spe-
cial ways. A small image sensor, which,
thanks to particularly ingenious image pro-
cessing system, nevertheless delivers very
good results, permits use of a 12 times Vario
lens, which would be inconceivable for ana-
log photography in such as compact cam-
era. This camera is an entire set of photo-
graphic equipment in one amazingly com-
pact package. Users that place particular
value on convenience but do not want to
abandon a broad usage spectrum will find
this camera eminently suited to their taste.
The impressiveness of the LEICA D-LUX 2
is due at least in part to its in its elegant
and functional design. At photokina the
company will present its successor, the
D-Lux 3. For whom is this new camera
instance the LCD monitor – very unusual in
a single-lens reflex camera – which can also
be used to preview the image. Ultrasonic
sensor cleaning is another key feature that
meets the demands of today’s market.
The Leica high technological competence
also finds expression in sport optics and
‘Digiscoping’, a technique used by many
for bird watchers. Photography that com-
bines a scope, adapter and digital cam-
era is a major trend here. How suitable is
the new camera for digiscoping?
Dr. Ralph Nebe: In recent years we have
created a wide range of solutions for nature
documentation photography. Especially note-
worthy
of course are the LEICA D-LUX 3
with the DIGITAL ADAPTER 2 on the TELE-
VID scope, which is pretty much the ‘clas-
sic’ digiscoping solution. Furthermore the
LEICA R system and also the new LEICA
DIGILUX 3 can be used on scopes, by
employing a the photo adapter. Also consid-
er that in the LEICA V-LUX 1 we have a cam-
intended? Or, what are its most impres-
sive technical features?
Dr. Ralph Nebe: We have found that many
dedicated photographers have assimilated
the many manual control features of the
D-Lux 2. Its successor, the D-Lux 3 is there-
fore a wonderful follow-up compact camera
that one can always have ready to hand,
even when one is simply travelling and has
not set out deliberately with the intention of
taking pictures. Neither should the unique
choice of picture formats offered by this
model be overlooked, above all the 16:9 for-
mat, which in the networked work of multi-
media is more and more in demand.
Finally: Can we now say that Leica with
its traditional values of quality, value
retention, reliability, and long service life
has now found its place in the digital
world?
Dr. Ralph Nebe: Emphatically yes, I’m con-
vinced that it has. Such enduring values
never go out of fashion.
“Leica is fully committed to digital, without however neglecting
analog photography. Our objective is to offer interesting and capable
digital products in every segment that Leica covers.”
Dr. Ralph Nebe
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6Leica World News
R System : LEICA DIGITAL MODULE R M System : LEICA M8 D System : LEICA DIGILUX 3
CAMERA
PRACTICEAPPLICATION AREASPROFILE
Travel and reportage
Available light
•Nature and macro
•Studio and portrait
•Landscape
Fine art photography
Leisure time, candid photography
The analog digital system - a hybrid mirror
reflex system unique in the world, for
optionally analog or digital photography.
Well-engineered mirror reflex technology in
combination with digital technology.
Specially-designed sensor with 10 million
pixels. Comprehensive palette of 26 Leica
high-performance lenses for the widest
diversity of challenges.
With the Leica R system the customer obtains
a particularly robust camera system. ‘Made in
Germany’, it holds its value well. High-quality
materials such as aluminium or magnesium
ensure a long service life and reliability even
under extreme conditions of use. As a univer-
sal and flexible camera system with relevant
functions which concentrate on the essen-
tials, the Leica R is entirely at the disposal of
creative photographers.
The LEICA M8 is the digital interpretation of a
well-proven camera system. A professional
craft tool for quick-reaction discreet photo-
graphy – and distinctive pictures. The photo-
grapher can see his subject throughout the
exposure time. And even in poor available
light the bright high-contrast viewfinder per-
mits quick and precise focussing. No other
professional camera is as compact as the
Leica M – or as quick.
The new Leica D system opens up unique
new possibilities for ambitious amateur
photographers. Exposure time, focal length,
aperture and depth of focus can be adjust-
ed as quickly, precisely and creatively as
with conventional digital SLR cameras. In
combination with the Leica Vario-Elmarit
14–50 f/2.8–3.5 ASPH. high-performance
lens the customer obtains a photographic
tool that concentrates on the essentials for
pin-sharp, shake-free pictures even under
the most difficult conditions.
The first digital Leica ranging viewfinder
camera – carrying over a classic concept into
the digital world. Specially-designed sensor
for the M8, with 10 million pixels. Bright-line
ranging viewfinder for determining the exact
extent of the picture and for precise focusing.
Clean design with no fussy embellishments.
Wide range of lenses, suitable for digital appli-
cations.
New Leica digital camera system –
the first Leica digital system camera for
exchangeable lenses to the four-thirds
standard. 7.5 megapixel LiveMOS sensor,
optical image stabiliser, quick and precise
autofocus, lightning-fast image process-
ing, classic operating concept.
•Travel and reportage
•Available light
Nature and macro
Studio and portrait
Landscape
•Fine art photography
Leisure time, candid photography
•Travel and reportage
Available light
Nature and macro
Studio and portrait
Landscape
Fine art photography
•Leisure time, candid photography
ADVANTAGES
LEICA SETS ON DIGITAL: THE PRODUCT PORTFOLIO AT A GLANCE
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Leica World News 7
V-Lux Line : LEICA V-LUX 1 D-Lux Line : LEICA D-LUX 3 C-Lux Line : LEICA C-LUX 1
As a bridge camera the LEICA V-LUX 1
offers high-tech at an attractive price.
Its compact dimensions and low weight
combined with its key technical data make
it a high-performance all-rounder camera.
It combines the highest picture quality with
handiness and comfort. The swing-out
2 inch display with its high resolution of
207,000 pixels permits convenient photo-
graphy even from the worm’s eye or bird’s
eye perspectives. Ideal also for nature
photography and bird photography.
The manual setting facilities of the D-Lux line
offer a compositional freedom unusual in this
class. Additional features are the high-quality
machining and clean, timeless design. Small
and elegant, the LEICA D-LUX 3 is ready at
any time to crystallise the photographer’s
personal view of the world into concrete
form.
The camera’s particularly compact dimen-
sions are captivating. It is also equipped
with a high-quality Leica lens, in this case
the LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT 4.6–16.8
ASPH. f/2.8–5.6. With its extremely short
response time and precise autofocus
metering, it catches those wonderful
moments quickly and reliably. In short: a
camera that is both high quality and robust,
a high-tech piece of chic design, that you
always want to have with you - on your trav-
els, when watching sport, on holiday or at
your work.
Compact, high-performance digital
camera – the new class in the Leica prod-
uct portfolio. High-performance ‘all-in-
one’ camera for demanding photography.
12 times zoom up to 420 mm (35 mm for-
mat), 10 megapixel sensor, integral image
stabiliser, quick and precise autofocus,
swing-out display.
Compact digital camera for creative
picture composition – very high picture
quality thanks to high-performance 10
megapixel sensor, integral image stabiliser,
variable lens for 28–112 mm (35 mm for-
mat), 3 selectable picture formats: 16:9,
3:2 and 4:3, brilliant 2.8 inch display, built-
in flash.
Particularly compact digital camera as
your constant companion – high-quality
digital camera with particularly compact
dimensions. Equipped with 6 megapixel
sensor, optical image stabiliser, auto
focus and variable lens for a focal length
range conversion of 28–102 mm.
•Travel and reportage
Available light
•Nature and macro
Studio and portrait
•Landscape
Fine art photography
•Leisure time, candid photography
•Travel and reportage
Available light
Nature and macro
Studio and portrait
Landscape
Fine art photography
Leisure time, candid photography
Travel and reportage
Available light
Nature and macro
Studio and Portrait
Landscape
Fine art photography
•Leisure time, candid photography
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Leica World News 9
THE M SYSTEM was launched in 1954
and has proven itself with dazzling distinc-
tion ever since. From the start it was the
very embodiment of high tech ‘Made in
Germany’ and accompanied by a ranges of
lenses brilliant in every sense of the word -
it quickly won the hearts of most of the
great photographers of the second half of
the 20th century. A workhorse, and at the
same time a much beloved friend, no other
camera system has touched the emotions
as deeply as the Leica M, which in the form
of the current LEICA MP and LEICA M7,
has held a special place even in this age
of new technology. In recent days the
world has become incontrovertibly ‘digital’,
and it was just a question of time before
the Leica M was also available in a digital
version. The term ‘just’ is however some-
thing of an understatement, since the
design of a camera worthy of the title ‘dig-
ital M’ demanded an enormous amount of
research and development. – Development
Manager Otto Domes permitted us a
glance behind the scenes, which we can
now recount in these pages. To put it
another way: the LEICA M8 is not just the
continuation of a proven principle. What
was really required was identifying and
assimilating the essence of a great idea
and translating it into a different techno-
logical modality - all while maintaining
proven parameters. And of course, it was
also essential to preserve the timeless
design, maintain the full compatibility of
the lenses, the much admired compact-
ness of the camera, and it’s superb han-
dling and and user-friendliness. Last but
not least, its unique charisma could not be
compromised or diluted. As a renowned
photographer once said: ‘The Leica is the
only camera with a soul’.
Now here it is at last. After so many ready-
made digital meals, a fine dining experi-
ence is about to arrive. The first impres-
sion? The M8 is perfect, a masterpiece of
integration and down to the last detail,
beautiful and reassuringly solid. Doubtless
the enclosed solid metal body has some-
thing to do with that. The top panel and
bottom cover are brass. That feels good
and solid. The design bespeaks the leg-
endary Leica characteristics of stability
and solidity, creating – as it were a –
strong, durable protective overcoat for the
sensor, which has been specially config-
ured for the M8 with an effective resolution
of 10.3 million pixels. The sensor measures
a generous 18 x 27 mm, yielding a multi-
plication factor – compared to the marked
focal length – of only 1.33 (compared to
the more usual 1.5 to 1.6) and a classic
aspect ratio of 3 : 2. Thus the focal length
of 35 mm focal length beloved by many
photojournalists is converted into a stan-
dard focal length of about 50mm. Tele
lenses enlarge the image slightly more
than their focal length would indicate, for
the same reason. For the first time, the
overall thickness of the cover glass for the
image sensor is kept to a mere 0.5 mm,
which together with the optimization of the
edge areas of the image leads to outstand-
ing picture results. The micro lenses
arranged over the light-sensitive sensor
layer are offset by an amount correspon-
ding to the distance to the optical axis. This
yields digital pictures free of vignetting
with a maximum colour correction at the
image edges. To fully exploit the high reso-
lution of the Leica M lenses, the typical
Moiré filter was discarded because of the
inevitable loss of resolution that it entailed.
Instead, electronics in the image-process-
ing circuitry eliminate distortion of the sig-
nal within the camera.
In this way picture noise is optimally
reduced in the available light ranges so
vital to M-photographers and high picture-
taking performance is maintained even at
speed settings of ISO 2500. Exposure
times range from as long as 32 sec plus ‘B’
at the slow end, up to a top shutter speed
of 1/8000 sec at the top end (with, of
course, a full range of intermediate shutter
speeds available). The metal bladed focal
shutter offers additionally very short flash
synchronization times to 1/250 second,
LEICA M8: THE DIGITAL M
At photokina, Leica will present the M8, the world’s first professional digital range/
viewfinder camera. With its well thought-out technology this landmark camera rigorously
carries forward the acknowledged excellence of the M system into the new age.
Photo: Ronald Schmidt
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10 Leica World News
which is very useful for fill-in flash an mini-
mizes ghost images. A choice is offered
between first or second shutter curtain
synchronization is also provided. In addi-
tion, the LEICA M8 for the first time uses
the new M-TTL flash technology which fires
an initial ranging burst immediately before
the actual flash exposure. The camera
uses this metering flash to calculate the
amount of light required and combines this
information with the available ambient
brightness reading to achieve a natural-
looking result that preserves the mood of
the scene.
The picture data are loaded to the com-
puter using the quick USB 2.0 interface.
The robust, secure connection is located
on the left side of the camera next to the
LCD monitor. The LCD itself is an impres-
sively large 2.5 inches with a resolution of
230,000 pixels, which allows precise and
easy checking of detailed subjects. It is
also easy to verify illumination levels and
accurate exposure of the subject by using
the RGB tonal value histogram which pro-
vides a clear overexposure warning identi-
fication for the respective subject areas.
The magnification using the zooming dis-
play function is performed in four stages
using an adjustment wheel that allows
assessment of even the finest details in the
recorded image, including a clipping warn-
ing.
Once the dust-proof battery and memory
card compartments are closed by fitting
the bottom plate, the camera can be acti-
vated. The power supply is provided by a
specially designed lithium ion recharge-
able battery with 3.7 V voltage capacity
and 1900 mAh power capacity. An SD card
of up to 4 GB is used as the data storage
medium. This must be inserted into the
compartment, otherwise, for safety rea-
sons, the M8 will not operate. The digital M
is turned on using the main switch (which
has settings for individual and continuous
framing plus self-timer). The shutter
release is activated in 3 stages and has a
standard tapped socket for attachment of
a conventional mechanical cable release.
The view through the extremely bright pro-
jected frame-line viewfinder shows the
rangefinder focusing images distinctly
even at twilight, and the frames them-
selves are compensated for parallax error
so they show the true borders of the pic-
ture area for focal lengths 24 and 35, 28
and 90, or 50 and 75 mm.
The shutter speed (manual and automatic)
is set using the milled shutter-speed wheel
while all other functions are activated
using the menu on the rear LCD.
The photographer by simply rotating the
dials and pressing the buttons can make all
the necessary settings instantly within the
two clear and simply structured menus. By
selecting ‘Set’ the picture parameters such
as speed settings, picture data, format and
white balance can be adjusted. By pressing
the ‘Menu’ button you can easily access all
the required basic settings. You will search
in vain for multiple-loaded function keys
and submenus on the new M8.
The digital Leica M saves its data in the
future-secure Adobe®DNG or JPEG for-
mats. There are four colour range settings:
Adobe RGB, sRGB or ECI RGB). Leica has
cooperated with the Danish manufacturer
Phase One to perform the laborious work
of camera profiling and the necessary soft-
ware configuration. The result is a set of
quality-optimized algorithms for digital
colour processing which deliver images
with particularly low-noise levels while at
the same time maintaining astonishing
image resolution. The professional RAW
Compact digital range/viewfinder system camera for professional use with full
range of Leica M lenses. Microprocessor-controlled metal blade focal-plane shutter.
Image sensor: Resolution 10.3 million, pixels, Physical Dimensions: 18 mm x27 mm,
Focal-length extension factor: 1.33x, Aspect ratio 3:2.
Image resolutions: DNG: 3916 x2634 pixels (10.31 MP); JPG: 3936 x2630 pixels (10.35 MP),
2952 x1972 pixels (5.8 MP), 1968x1315 pixels (2.6 MP),
1312 x876 pixels (1.15 MP).
Data formats: Adobe®DNG (camera manufacturer-independent Digital Negative
Format), two different stages of JPEG compression, 16-bit colour
resolution, 10.2 MB file size per image
Sensor speed: ISO 160/23° to ISO 2500/35°
White balance: Automatic, six pre-set levels s, manual white balance, manual colour
temperature settings from 2,000K to 13,100K.
Color spaces: Adobe® RGB, sRGB, ECI RGB.
Color monitor : 2.5" large bright LC-Display with a resolution of approx. 230.000 pixels
Exposure metering: Heavily center-weighted TTL exposure metering with at working aperture.
Metering range EV0 to EV20 at 20°C ambient temperature, aperture 1.0
and ISO 160/23°. M-TTL Guide Number Control with metered pre-flash
using accessory shoe SCA 3502 (from version M4) or with LEICA SF 24D
Viewfinder: Large bright, projected frame line viewfinder with automatic parallax
compensation showing precise border of the recorded image viewfinder
optics with reduced sensitivity to stray light and optimum visibility of all
bright line frames under all illumination conditions. Borders Magnifica-
tion 0.68x (for all lenses). Rangefinder uses both split-image and super-
imposed-image distance-measuring for maximum precision combination.
Effective measurement base 47.1 mm (mechanical measurement base
69.25mm x viewfinder magnification 0.68x).
Lens mount : Leica M bayonet with additional optical reader for identification of all
6 bit-coded lenses.
Exposure control: Automatic (Auto) and aperture-priority with corresponding viewfinder
display. Manual exposure with adjustment by means of illuminated light
balance LEDs in the viewfinder.
Shutter speeds : When in automatic mode (A), step less from 32 s to 1/8000 s. In manual
mode, setting from 4 s to 1/8000 s in half stop increments plus B for
open exposures of any duration. Flash synchronisation times from B
(bulb) to 1/250 sec.
Storage medium: SD cards up to 4 GB
Power supply: Lithium ion rechargeable battery with a voltage of 3.7 V and 1900mAh.
Interface: 5-pin standard mini-USB socket USB 2.0. LEICA DIGITAL CAPTURE
allows the camera to be operated by software using a USB 2.0 connec-
tion.
Size (W x H x D): approx. 51⁄2in x 31⁄7in x 11⁄2in,
Weight without rechargeable battery: approx. 191⁄4oz
TECHNICAL DATA LEICA M8
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Leica World News 11
A special camera for special pictures: photo professionals are happy to acknowledge the uniqueness of the Leica M system. With the new M8 Leica
has successfully transferred a timeless camera concept into the digital world. Photos: Ronald Schmidt
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12 Leica World News
Mr. Domes, the new LEICA M8 is a com-
plete technological reinterpretation of a
proven camera system: is that a fair sum-
mary?
Otto Domes: Certainly the M8 has been
newly developed from the ground up. The
most challenging aspect of its design how-
ever was retaining the the essential charac-
ter so widely admired in the in the Leica M
character.
A completely new system such as the
LEICA M8 has in many ways a long ges-
tation period: what technical, operating
and logistical preparations did Leica
have to make in order to be able to man-
ufacture the M8 in Solms?
Otto Domes: A whole range of adjustment,
calibration and test equipment had to be
developed and made from scratch so that
the M8 could be manufactured in Solms.
For instance the sensor must be adjusted
within the camera to tolerances of a few μm,
and then checked again to verify that it is in
exactly the correct position. Moreover, the
increased cleanliness demands of manufac-
turing the digital M8 made it essential to
assemble it in a clean room. In a relatively
short time we have created ideal conditions
for assembly, which satisfy the technical
and also the logistical requirements for a
flexible manufacturing program.
It’s nothing new to say that the Leica
engineers are well-known for their leg-
endary precision and mechanical know-
how. Is the same true for the digital com-
petence of the Leica staff in terms of
camera development and manufacture?
Otto Domes: We found we had to add new
knowledge to our existing know-how, to in-
crease our knowledge base in all areas, in
particular in digital technology and image
processing. Based on our experience with
the Digital-Modul-R we have recently
attained a high level of competence in these
respects.
How would you describe your goals in
reference to the technical specifications
of the M8?
Otto Domes: One major challenge we faced
was keeping the camera unchanged in its
external dimensions. This caused us many
headaches in camera design: for instance
we had to bring the bayonet mount forward
by 2 mm from the camera body, to keep the
camera itself as thin as possible. This seem-
ingly small change meant that the exposure
meter drive had to completely redeveloped.
A key innovation in the M camera is the met-
al blade slot shutter used on the M8. This
incorporates a white blade for exposure
metering and a specially developed quiet
motorized movement. The white blade in
turn meant that a completely new exposure
meter was required.
What specific characteristics of the M
system could be retained in the digital
world:, or, put another way – to what
extent is the M8 really an M?
Otto Domes: The viewfinder is essentially
the same as for all M cameras, it has only
been modified somewhat in the M8. A fur-
ther typical M feature also used in the M8 is
LEICA M8: A NEW CONCEPT DEVELOPED
FROM THE GROUND UP
The LEICA M8 opens a completely new chapter in the history of cameras,
being the first professional digital camera that is ‘Made in Germany‘.
Development Engineer Otto Domes talks about the hurdles that had to
be surmounted on the road to the digital M – and the capability and
dedication of the design that made it possible.
data converter Capture One LE ensures
that the data supplied by the CCD sensor
and stored in the future-secure Adobe®
Digital Negative Format (DNG) are pro-
cessed to yield the best possible quality.
All in all, the 16 bit-image data generate
astonishing image resolution, an extended
dynamics range and an amazingly wide
range of tonal values. The exposure meter-
ing allows newcomers to the M family to
operate in a reassuringly familiar way, with
precise, heavily center-weighted TTL expo-
sure metering and pre-set working expo-
sure. In automatic mode the extremely
important technique of controlling and lim-
iting depth of field can be easily employed
as an image creative tool when taking pic-
tures. An unobtrusive twist of the aperture
setting ring on the M lens is all it takes to
give a range of different impressions of the
subject.
To sum it all up, it can be authoritatively
stated that : the new LEICA M8 seamless-
ly integrates the state-of-the art digital
technology with the much admired attrib-
utes of the M family in a spectacularly suc-
cessful synthesis. In a most impressive
way, the M8 concentrates on the essential
functions and thereby proves itself to be a
truly professional rangefinder camera in a
digital world. The interaction of classic and
digital components mesh together so har-
moniously that once again the creative ele-
ment that is the picture itself—comes to
the fore, in uncompromising quality. And
due to the miracle of digital technology,
that image is now immediately available for
viewing after taking the picture.
MICHAEL NISCHKE
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Leica World News 13
the detachable bottom cover. Perhaps even
more important the materials used in the
M8 are those that have been employed since
the early days, such as the solid chrome-
plated brass for the top panel and bottom
cover. However this question can really only
be answered when you take the M8 in your
hands and use it the first time. Then you
have the best answer to your question.
Since the introduction of the M3 the
Leica M system has demonstrated trail-
blazing technological innovations over
and over again. What innovations, devel-
opment and inventions are particularly
striking about the M8?
Otto Domes: Firstly the patented 6-bit cod-
ing of the lenses should be mentioned; this
leads directly to optimization of the picture
results and enables various additional func-
tions. Also, Leica is one of the very few
camera manufacturers that has not taken
an image sensor ‘off the peg’ so to speak.
Instead we have optimized the sensor to the
performance characteristics of M lenses in
a variety of ways such as a special microlens
design with suitable optical displacement at
the edges of the image field, so that despite
their especially short back focus a compar-
atively small focal length extension factor of
only 1.33 can be achieved.
The Leica M has adopted the classic for-
mula ‘Form follows Function’ and by this
means has evolved a virtually timeless
design, which is impressive in both its
elegance and ergonomic shape but also
its compactness. To what extent could
design and dimensions be retained for
the digital M?
Otto Domes: The height and width of the
camera are the same as for the M7, only
regarding the depth was it necessary to
make the camera about 3 mm thicker to
accommodate the CCD sensor, the digital
hardware, and the LCD monitor and its pro-
tective glass. By using magnesium alloy for
the body on the other hand we have been
able to keep the overall weight unchanged.
To what extent does the new camera
maintain that tradition – in particular
regarding shutter release delay?
Otto Domes: For a digital camera the shut-
ter release delay is extraordinarily short.
Indeed, we have achieved a shutter release
delay that is shorter than that of any digital
SLR camera on the market. In practice how-
ever this difference is virtually immaterial.
The speed of the M8 is primarily due to par-
allel processing of the image signals that
results from the simultaneous storage and
reproduction of the image. A good compari-
son is with multi-tasking in the world of
computers. We also regarded it as of major
importance to develop a camera that was
extremely quiet. The new shutter mecha-
nism certainly has a new sound, but the
hard work that has been put into it to
achieve noise linearization has made it prac-
tically as quiet as a traditional cloth focal-
plane shutter.
Where do you see the absolute strengths
of the LEICA M8, and which technical
features would you particularly draw
attention to?
Otto Domes: Perhaps the basic design phi-
losophy of the M8 is that we didn’t simply
intend to doesn’t pursue the use of the largest
range of high technology functions for their
own sake. Instead we were motivated by the
Otto Domes: Our first users have compli-
mented us on the small number of buttons
and the simple menus. It now appears as if
everything is quite intuitive and simple, but
our development staff assures me it really
made their brains hurt when they were actu-
ally thinking out how to accomplish these
things.
During the development of the M8 you
worked with Kodak as a partner. To what
extent is the M8 really a Leica ‘Made in
Germany’?
Otto Domes: Kodak is our approved suppli-
er for image sensors. The entire camera was
A special camera for special pictures: photo professionals are
happy to acknowledge the uniqueness of the Leica M system.
With the new M8 Leica has successfully transferred a timeless
camera concept into the digital world.
Photos: Ronald Schmidt
“We are one of the very few camera manufacturers that have
also not taken an image sensor ‘off the peg’, instead we have
optimised the sensor to the M lenses .” Otto Domes
overall concept of a quiet, discreet and com-
pact camera, which simply produces out-
standing pictures, and gives the feeling that
the camera in your hand is a true M.
Are all M lenses compatible with the dig-
ital M, with no loss of quality?
Otto Domes: With very few exceptions all M
lenses can be used on the M8. As men-
tioned previously, we have adapted the sen-
sor to suit these lenses so that there is no
loss of quality. Of course, modern M lenses
are now supplied with 6-bit coding, aspheri-
cal technology or achromatic correction for
the best results.
The Leica M system always stood for the
ultimate in user-friendliness and quick,
intuitive handling. What do the initial
users say about the digital M?
however developed, designed and planned
for manufacture in Germany. The vast
majority of parts that we do not make our-
selves come from German suppliers. And of
course the camera is built and adjusted by
us in Solms in the clean room set up spe-
cially for the purpose.
We really are quite proud to be able to say
that the M8 is the first professional digital
camera that is ‘Made in Germany’.
Otto Domes is a Technical Project Man-
ager at Leica Camera and as such
responsible for the development of the
LEICA M8. The interview was managed
by Hans-Michael Koetzle.
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14 Leica World News
WIDE-ANGLE LENSES are more or less
standard equipment for Leica M photogra-
phers. In reportage photography, short
focal lengths are indispensable. They let
you get close to events, so they stand for
authenticity and guarantee pictures whose
visual language is lively and exciting, in
which the elements come together pictori-
ally in a way that transcends what is visible
by the naked eye.To put another way, wide-
angle lenses lead almost automatically to
an injection of dynamism to the picture,
supported by a camera system that is flex-
ible, lightweight and inconspicuous – the
Leica M.
Leica has now extended the rich palette of
M series lenses by the addition of an
extremely compact wide-angle lens, which
at 180 grams is downright lightweight. The
LEICA ELMARIT-M 1:2.8/28 mm ASPH. is
a completely new design with an overall
length of only 30 mm it is also the most
compact M lens of all. The very high image
resolution combined with the astonishing-
ly low weight is achieved by the use of
aspherical lens surfaces. Leica remains
the leader in this technology, a fact that
should be of special interest to photogra-
phers who aspire to the new LEICA M8.
Here the Elmarit yields an equivalent focal
length of about 35 mm, which is generally
regarded as the ideal focal length for live-
event or reportage photography. The LEICA
ELMARIT-M 1:2.8/28 mm ASPH. yields
WIDE ANGLE: NEW CLASS FOR THE M
The introduction of a new lightweight, compact, high-performance wide-angle lens
underlines yet again the high optical achievements of Leica engineers – especially
in the critical field of aspherical technology.
virtually distortion-free images down to its
minimum focusing distance of 0.7 m.
The new Elmarit-M 28 mm is comprised of
eight elements in six groups. The classic
quick-change bayonet is affixed with a 6-
bit code lens identification to optimize its
performance on the digital LEICA M8. The
LEICA ELMARIT-M 1:2.8/28 mm ASPH. is
available beginning in October in a black
anodized finish. The range of accessories
available includes the lens hood with its
cover, a metal front lens cap, a rear cover
and a napa leather tubular case. All in all
the new LEICA ELMARIT-M 1:2.8/28 mm
ASPH. represents a notable achievement
as a versatile high-performance lens. It
combines the all the elements of high opti-
cal competence for which Leica Camera
engineers are renowned, and it can be
strongly recommended as the first ‘stan-
dard optic’ both to seasoned professionals
and entry-level users of the M system.
HMK
Photo: Brian Bower
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Leica World News 15
THREE FIXED FOCAL LENGTHS in a
single lens? As far back as 1998 Leica
introduced the LEICA TRI-ELMAR-M 1:4/
28–35–50 mm ASPH., a highly unusual but
very successful lens solution developed by
the Leica optical engineers. Well, those
same engineers have now taken this con-
cept one logical step further with the new
LEICA-TRI-ELMAR-M 1:4/16–18–21 mm
ASPH. Whereas the Tri-Elmar-M 1:4/28–
35–50 mm incorporated three of the focal
lengths most favored by 35 mm format
users, the new Tri-Elmar opens up the
super wide-angle field right down to focal
lengths of 16 und 18 mm, previously un-
available in the Leica system, and thus pos-
ing an attractive challenge to creative
Leica M photographers.
The first thing that strikes you about the
new Tri-Elmar-M 1:4/16–18–21 mm ASPH.
is its extraordinarily compact design, a
mere 63 mm length, a direct result of the
special mastery of aspherical technology
at Leica Camera. Two of the total of ten ele-
ments (in seven groups) incorporate
aspherical surfaces. Also the future-orient-
ed principle of internal focusing has been
implemented in the new Tri-Elmar. This
means that a floating element is used to
ensure significantly improved quality,
especially for close-up applications. For
hyperfocal photography a depth of field
ranging from 0.5 m to infinity can be used.
Due to its minimal distortion and virtually
imperceptible field curvature, the LEICA
TRI-ELMAR-M 1:4/16-18-21 mm ASPH. is
recommended even in the demanding field
of architectural photography. Of course
the Tri-Elmar is fitted with 6-bit coding
and thus is suitable for use on the new
LEICA M8, where with an effective focal-
length range of 21–28 mm, extreme wide-
angle perspectives can also be achieved.
At the market launch time in December,
Leica Camera will also have a new univer-
sal wide-angle viewfinder in its range,
which will permit the use of the new TRI-
ELMAR-M 1:4/16-18-21 mm ASPH. with
analog M7 and MP models and also with
the digital M8 with focal length multiplica-
tion factored in. Using this viewfinder
attachment the photographer can precise-
ly determine the picture field for any of a
total of five Leica focal lengths – namely
16, 18, 21, 24 and 28 mm. The parallax
compensation control allows the true
extent of the picture to be displayed at any
focusing distance. One aspherical and one
achromatically corrected lens here ensure
a very low stray light susceptibility, while
delivering high resolution and brilliance.
Furthermore, the viewfinder includes a
spirit level with fluorescent illumination for
exact leveling of the camera, which is par-
ticularly useful for landscape photography
and when using a tripod. Correction lenses
for diopter adjustment from –3 to +3 are
available as optional accessories
The compact viewfinder for universal appli-
cations will also be offered as a set with
the LEICA TRI-ELMAR-M 1:4/16–18–21
mm ASPH. lens at an especially attractive
price. The viewfinder is supplied in a napa
leather tubular case. Accessories for the
new TRI-ELMAR-M lens include the lens
hood with its cover, a metal front lens cap,
a rear cover, a napa leather tubular case,
and filter holder. Available at your author-
ized Leica dealer from December.
HMK
LEICA LENSES WIDE-ANGLE TO THE THIRD POWER!
This remarkable new lens that combines three popular fixed focal lengths opens up a new
super wide-angle field to the Leica M photographer. To complement it, we’ve launched an
equally amazing new compact universal viewfinder – an exquisite piece of precision optical
equipment in its own right!
The new wide-angle viewfinder for 16, 18, 21,
24 and 28 mm. In combination with the new
Tri-Elmar you secure yourselves interesting
price advantage.
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16 Leica World News
more advanced, user-friendly alternative to
the fast-moving, trendy models that now
dominate digital camera design.
One of the principal attractions of the
LEICA DIGILUX 3 is that features and over-
all concept exemplify the clear tradition of
concentration on the essentials, with func-
tional yet timeless design. The shutter-
speed dial and the quick and precise con-
trol rings for aperture, zoom and focusing
are all there where the knowledgeable pho-
tographer expects to find them. Overall the
camera fits very comfortably in the hands.
With its slightly raised grip on the right side
it is perhaps even slightly better than its
predecessor in this respect. Even in the
digital domain the name of Leica still
stands for the highest quality materials
(such as magnesium) and best precision
machining, which not only ensures a long
service life but also guarantees secure and
reliable operation even under difficult con-
ditions. In short: even at first glance it’s
clear that this is a robust reportage camera
optimized for individual and creative pho-
tography.
Leica – the name also stands for high-per-
formance optics: a parameter often forgot-
ten when counting the pixels. It’s an
inescapable fact that high-performance
lenses are indispensable even in the digital
world. Lenses are the most fundamental
link in the imaging chain, standing, as it
were, at the gateway leading to technically
brilliant pictures. The new camera breaks
new ground as the first Leica model to use
the new Leica D system, a bayonet mount
compatible with the four-thirds standard,
so that lenses are easily interchangeable.
In this way Leica Camera has laid the foun-
dation of a stand-alone Leica digital cam-
era system.
The standard lens for the Digilux 3 is the
Leica designed and developed LEICA D
VARIO-ELMARIT 1:2.8–3.5/14–50 mm
ASPH. lens, which, coupled with state-of-
the-art optical image stabilization and the
7.5 megapixel LiveMOS sensor, ensures
outstanding picture quality. The lens itself
is comprised of 16 elements in twelve
groups, of which three are aspherical – a
technology, by the way, in which Leica is
the world leader. One can also make the
point that the characteristics that Leica
enthusiasts have always prized have been
transferred into the world of digital lenses.
In other words, the Leica D Vario-Elmarit
also reproduces the finest details and
nuances clearly and distinctly. Even at the
shortest focal lengths, distortion and
vignetting are minimal. Accurate color
reproduction – especially of skin tones –
ensures naturalistic pictures that capture
the mood of the moment. Added to this is
a wide maximum aperture of 1:2.8, which,
in combination with a very wide range of
equivalent) opens up an expanded field of
creative opportunities – from portraiture
to spacious landscape photography.
Another important innovation: Here, for
the first time, Leica has combined an inter-
changeable lens of outstanding high-per-
formance optics with optical image stabi-
lization. It’s well known that movement of
the hand is a common cause of fuzzy or
blurry pictures. It’s practically impossible
to eliminate such movements, so Leica
have overcome the problem by compen-
sating for them using MEGA O.I.S. optical
image stabilization, that delivers sharp and
brilliant pictures even under extreme con-
ditions – photos taken indoors, at twilight,
on the spur of the moment or at the tele-
photo settings of a zoom lens. This is
achieved using an integral processor. This
technological module evaluates the data
that are delivered 4,000 times per second
by the movement detector, and applies the
result to effectively minimize the effects of
BEING A SUCCESSFUL professional
photographer means being able to respond
quickly and intuitively in critical situations.
But the design philosophy of many new
generations of cameras is based on a
readiness to abandon traditional paths and
to opt for control layouts that require a
steep learning curve. In many cases the
operational elements are no longer
arranged in the way to which one is accus-
tomed as an experienced photographer.
What is especially disagreeable is if suc-
cessive models switch back and forth
between alternative systems. The Leica
system philosophy is quite different. We
aim to refine the proven elements with
caution and develop them further, even
though most of the worlds the camera
designers are emphasizing completely
novel approaches. The sector in general
and our customers in particular appreciate
this conservative developmental approach
that makes the camera-user interface
more pleasurable and reduces frustration.
For these reasons, it is no accident that
when the LEICA DIGILUX 2 was introduced
in 2004 it won many major prizes and the
undying affection of countless photogra-
phers. Finally there was a digital reportage
camera available that came up with a tra-
ditional operating concept that included
options for creative work familiar from ana-
log photography. Right on time for photo-
kina Leica Camera AG is now presenting
the LEICA DIGILUX 3 as its successor
model, to build upon the unprecedented
acceptancer of the Digilux 2 and provide a
LEICA DIGILUX 3 TODAY’S BREAKTHROUGH,
TOMORROW’S CLASSIC!
When the Digilux 2 was introduced in 2004 it attracted considerable enthusiasm for its
technical features and its well-thought-out operating concept. Now the LEICA DIGILUX 3
continues the success story and takes it to a brilliant new level by laying the foundation
of a new stand-alone Leica digital SLR system.
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focal lengths from 28 to 100 mm (35 mm

Leica World News 17
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18 Leica World News
camera shake. In addition the Leica D
Vario-Elmarit image stabilization operates
in two different modes: in mode 1 the
image stabilization is activated and thus
yields blur-free viewing and sharp images.
In mode 2 the image stabilization is acti-
vated only for the picture itself, and is thus
able to achieve maximum blur reduction.
This is yet another case where the photog-
rapher himself can decide which operating
mode to use according to the situation.
With its unique live picture function, which
not only shows the viewing image on the
monitor before taking the picture but also
permits comprehensive checking of expo-
sure and white balance before the picture
is taken, the LEICA DIGILUX 3 also occu-
pies a unique place among digital single-
lens reflex cameras. It offers advantages
that until now – due to system restrictions
– only compact cameras could provide,
such as checking the white balance before
taking the picture, or checking the expo-
sure correction. This capability can of
course be very valuable when shooting in
the studio or in photographic situations
where a tripod is required.
The new image signal processor was spe-
cially matched to the outstanding repro-
duction performance of the Leica D lens
and the interaction with the new LiveMOS
technology. In this way the high demands
of single-lens reflex photography with
regard to performance and picture quality
were completely satisfied. The processor
also guarantees excellent color reproduc-
tion as well as outstanding resolution and
perfect tonal gradation along with very fast
processing speeds and very little shutter
delay. In combination with the energy-sav-
ing LiveMOS sensor the Digilux 3 is capa-
ble of taking more than 450 pictures on a
single charge of the battery.
A much-discussed irritation of digital sin-
gle-lens reflex photography concerns the
dust particles which can easily enter the
camera when the lens in being changed
and settle on the sensor, thus noticeably
impairing the resulting pictures. The LEICA
DIGILUX 3 combats this problem with
innovative technology. A newly developed
filter is positioned in front of the image
sensor between the low-pass filter and the
shutter. When the camera is switched on
the protective filter is subjected to an ultra-
sonic frequency vibration impulse of
30,000 Hz. Any dust particles lying on the
protective filter are thereby shaken off. The
chamber between the filter and the sensor
is hermetically sealed, thus preventing the
ingress of dust particles behind the filter.
All in all, the new LEICA DIGILUX 3 is
poised to prove itself as a high-perform-
ance reportage camera, which perfectly
combines the technological progress in the
digital field and the traditional Leica
virtues. Its auto focus operates at lightning
speed to allow quick-reaction photography,
while its manual setting facilities still pro-
vide photographers with freedom for indi-
vidual expression. Integral image stabili-
zation, LiveMOS sensor and real-time live
picture function also mark a quantum
leap in digital technology, as does the
new LEICA D VARIO-ELMARIT 1:2.8–3.5/
14–50 mm ASPH. lens which opens up a
wide range of subjects to the photographer
and at the same time lays the foundation of
a stand-alone Leica digital SLR system. In
short: with the LEICA DIGILUX 3 the cus-
tomer will receive an outwardly unchanged
camera, as beautiful as it is robust. But
inwardly it is as powerful as it is technical-
ly innovative – a system camera for cre-
ative photography which that quickly find a
legion of loyal fans among professionals as
well as dedicated amateur enthusiasts.
HJK
With the Digilux 3 Leica Camera have laid the foundation for their own system to the four-thirds standard. Photos: Florian Wagner
Image type/format Digital single-lens reflexsy stem camera with interchangeable lenses
complying with Four Thirds standard.
File formats RAW, JPEG (based on Exif 2.21 standard), DPOF
Aspect ratio 4:3, 3:2, 16:9 (3:2, 16:9 only in Live View mode)
Image sensor LiveMOS sensor size : 17.3 x13.0 mm with pixels 7.9 million total pixels
and 7.5 million effective pixels. Aspect ratio 4:3. Color filter RGB
primary color filter. Dust reduction system ultrasonic protective filter.
Viewfinder Optical
Color display 2.5” TFT LCD monitor with 207,000 pixels, image field approx. 100%
in Live View mode, depth of field controlled via depth of field lever.
(only with Live View via monitor). Menu languages German, English,
French, Italian, Spanish, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Japanese.
ISO speeds Auto/100/200/400/800/1600
Lens LEICA D VARIO-ELMARIT 14–50mm f/2.8–3.5 ASPH.
Lens bayonet Four Thirds bayonet
Dimensions (WxHxD) 145.8 x 86.9x 80 mm (5.7 x 3.4 x 3.1 inch)
Weight approx. 530 g (18.7 oz) (housing)
Scope of delivery 1 GB SD card, power supply unit/charger, battery pack, eyepiece
cover, housing cover, video cable, USB cable, power cord, carrying
strap, CD-ROM with software Adobe Photoshop Elements 4.0 (WIN)
and 3.0 (MAC), Quick Time.
TECHNICAL DATA LEICA DIGILUX 3
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Leica World News 19
The new LEICA DIGILUX 3 reflects how digital technology has progressed. As a modern, high-capability reportage camera, it has proven itself in a very
wide variety of photographic situations. Its lightning-fast autofocus enables quick-reaction photography, whilst the manual setting capabilities still leave
scope for individual composition. Photo: Florian Wagner
LWN 2006-02 E innen 06-09-14 15.09.2006 8:33 Uhr Seite 19

THE LEICA R-SYSTEM AT A GLANCE
LEICA SUPER-ELMARIT-R
15 mm f/2.8 ASPH.
LEICA ELMARIT-R
19 mm f/2.8
LEICA ELMARIT-R
28 mm f/2.8
LEICA PC-SUPER-ANGULON-R
28 mm f/2.8
LEICA SUMMILUX-R
50 mm f/1.4
LEICA SUMMICRON-R
50 mm f/2
LEICA MACRO-ELMARIT-R
60 mm f/2.8
LEICA SUMMILUX-R
35 mm f/1.4
LEICA SUMMILUX-R
80 mm f/1.4
LEICA SUMMICRON-R
35 mm f/2
LEICA APO-SUMMICRON-R
90 mm f/2 ASPH.
LEICA APO-MACRO-
ELMARIT-R 100 mm f/2.8
LEICA APO-SUMMICRON-R
180 mm f/2
LEICA APO-ELMARIT-R
180 mm f/2.8
LEICA APO-TELYT-R
280 mm f/4
LEICA VARIO-ELMAR-R
21-35 mm f/3.5–4 ASPH.
LEICA VARIO-ELMAR-R
35–70 mm f/4
LEICA VARIO-ELMARIT-R
28–90 mm f/2.8–4.5
LEICA VARIO-APO-ELMARIT-R
70–180 mm f/2.8
LEICA VARIO-ELMAR-R
80–200 mm f/4
LENSES
Ready for the future : With the Leica R system you have all the advantages of analog photography and with just
one flick of the wrist the possibilities of the digital world. A broad array of high performance lenses and versatile
accessories pave the way in both cases.
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