Leica SL3-S: Powering Professional Visual Storytelling
Leica camera AG, known for its commitment to quality adn innovation, has once again raised the bar with the launch of the SL3-S camera. Building on the legacy of the SL-System, introduced in 2015, this powerhouse combines cutting-edge technology with a streamlined design, catering to the demanding needs of professional photographers and videographers.
Born from the company’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of audiovisual production, the SL3-S prioritizes speed, flexibility, and versatility. “When developing this camera, the process centred on the high demands of professional photography and videography,” Leica states. “In doing so, the key focus was on speed, flexibility and versatility.”
This focus is evident in the camera’s extraordinary specifications. Its heart lies in a new BSI CMOS full-frame sensor boasting a 24-megapixel native resolution, expandable to 48 and 96 megapixels via multi-shot modes.
The SL3-S sets a new standard for speed in the Leica system camera lineup. Featuring a state-of-the-art autofocus system that combines phase detection AF (PDAF), depth map (object detection AF), and contrast detection AF, it achieves continuous shooting at an astounding 30 frames per second with full autofocus support. ”This makes the SL3-S the fastest Leica system camera ever built,” leica proudly proclaims.
Complementing its impressive speed is remarkable image quality. The SL3-S handles a vast ISO range of 50 to 200,000, ensuring stunning results even in challenging lighting conditions. Coupled with a high dynamic range, it excels in capturing detailed images and videos across a wide spectrum of shooting scenarios.
Beyond the technical prowess, the SL3-S introduces groundbreaking features for content authenticity. As the first camera in the SL-System to incorporate Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI) technology,it enables creators to sign their images with tamper-proof metadata. This includes essential information like the camera model used, author details, creation date, and editing history.
This commitment to transparency extends to viewers, who can verify the authenticity of images using publicly available verification tools, ensuring trust and integrity in visual content.
The SL3-S redefines video recording capabilities, offering 6K resolution recording and the unique 3:2 open-gate recording feature. This opens up creative possibilities for filmmakers, allowing them to record videos in various standard formats like portrait, without compromising quality.
Adding to its versatility, the camera records HDMI-RAW in 5.9K at 30 fps to external recorders. Furthermore, its fast CFexpress type B interface enables internal recording of ProRes 4:2:2 HQ in 5.8K at 30 fps or C4K at 60 fps, without any recording time limits. The ability to record directly to an external SSD drive via a USB-C connection further enhances its flexibility.
The SL3-S doesn’t compromise on connectivity, featuring slots for CFexpress type B and UHS-II SD memory cards, a USB-C port for fast data transfer, tethering, SSD connection, and power supply, and a full-size HDMI 2.1 output for external LCD panels or recording devices.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi with MIMO technology ensure a stable connection to the Leica FOTOS app, facilitating lightning-fast transfer of full-resolution DNG images.
as an Apple “Made for iPhone® and iPad®” accessory, the SL3-S seamlessly integrates with Apple devices. In 2025,a Camera-to-Cloud function will be available via Adobe frame.io, enabling direct upload of videos and photos from the camera to the cloud.
The Leica SL3-S is more than just a camera; it’s a tool that empowers creators to push the boundaries of visual storytelling. With its exceptional speed, image quality, innovative features, and robust connectivity, it’s undoubtedly a groundbreaking achievement in the world of professional photography and videography.
Leica SL3-S Arrives: A Hybrid Camera for the Discerning Photographer and Videographer
Leica Camera AG, a name synonymous with excellence in photography, has recently announced the Leica SL3-S, a mirrorless camera designed for those who demand the best of both worlds: exceptional still image quality and versatile video capabilities.Unveiled on January 16th, 2025, this camera marks a importent evolution of the popular SL3, featuring a refined design and a compelling upgrade that sets it apart in the hybrid camera market.
The key change lies in the heart of the camera: the sensor. Swapping the 60 Megapixel sensor of its predecessor for a 24 Megapixel unit, Leica has achieved a significant leap in performance. This reduction in megapixels results in faster processing speeds, enhanced autofocus capabilities, and smaller, more manageable file sizes, making the SL3-S a truly versatile tool for both professionals and keen amateurs.
The SL3-S retains the acclaimed L-mount system, offering photographers and videographers access to a vast selection of lenses from Leica and its alliance partners. From ultra-wide-angle lenses to super telephoto zoom lenses, the possibilities are virtually limitless. Leica’s legendary M-Lenses also shine on the SL3-S, thanks to the sensor’s specialized design and an integrated external light sensor. This potent combination delivers unbeatable image quality and a compact form factor, making it ideal for creative professionals who demand the best.
Visual clarity and intuitive handling are paramount in the SL3-S experience. A meticulously crafted EyeRes® viewfinder with 5.76 million pixels displays a crystal clear image at up to 120 frames per second. this, coupled with a live preview feature, ensures precise control over exposure and composition even before the shutter is released. The camera also boasts a tilting 3.2-inch high-resolution touchscreen,providing exceptional flexibility for capturing images from various angles.
Leica has meticulously refined the SL3-S’s interface, drawing upon user feedback and focusing on a more intuitive and enjoyable experience. The ergonomics, haptic feedback, and menu navigation have all been optimized for ease of use. the camera’s compact and lightweight design, an evolution beyond its predecessors, enhances portability and handling. Free-assignable FN buttons and intuitive touch interaction further streamline the workflow, allowing photographers to create precisely as intended.
The Leica SL3-S is set to arrive in India on January 16th, 2025, priced at Rs. 5,00,000/- (inclusive of GST). It will be available at the Leica Store India in Connaught Place, New Delhi, and can be pre-ordered online at www.leica-store.in.
This latest addition to Leica’s esteemed lineup comes at a momentous time for the brand, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2025. Leica Camera AG’s global ”100 Years of Leica: Witness to a Century” campaign celebrates a rich heritage of innovation and craftsmanship, culminating in the unveiling of exciting new products like the SL3-S.
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What makes the Leica SL3-S stand out in the crowded market of hybrid cameras?
Archyde Interview: Joining Forces with Leica’s Product Specialist
archyde (A): Welcome to archyde, today we have with us a special guest, mr. Lucas Hartley, Leica’s Product Specialist.Lucas, welcome and thank you for joining us.
Lucas Hartley (LH): Thank you,I’m delighted to be here.
A: Let’s dive right in. The Leica SL3-S has just been announced, what makes this camera stand out in the crowded market of hybrid cameras?
LH: Well, the SL3-S is more than just a camera; it’s a tool that empowers creators to push the boundaries of visual storytelling. It combines cutting-edge technology with a streamlined design, catering to the demanding needs of professional photographers and videographers. The key changes lie in the sensor and the attention to detail in features that matter most to professionals.
A: You mentioned the sensor. Coudl you elaborate on the shift from 60 megapixels to 24 megapixels in the SL3-S?
LH: Absolutely. While the SL3 was renowned for its resolving power, we realized that many professionals value speed and efficiency over sheer megapixels. so, we crafted a new BSI CMOS full-frame sensor with a 24-megapixel native resolution. This, coupled with multi-shot modes, allows for expansion up to 96 megapixels. The result is a camera that balances exceptional detail with unprecedented speed.
A: Speaking of speed, the SL3-S boasts an remarkable continuous shooting rate. How did Leica achieve this?
LH: The SL3-S features a state-of-the-art autofocus system that combines phase, depth map, and contrast detection AF. This technology, coupled with our new sensor, allows the SL3-S to achieve continuous shooting at 30 frames per second with full autofocus support. It’s the fastest Leica system camera ever built.
A: That’s indeed impressive. Now, let’s talk about the SL3-S’s commitment to content authenticity. Can you tell us more about the integration of Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI) technology?
LH: Certainly.The SL3-S is the first camera in the SL-System to incorporate CAI technology. This means creators can sign their images with tamper-proof metadata, including essential information like the camera model used, author details, creation date, and editing history. This not only ensures integrity in visual content but also promotes transparency, building trust with viewers.
A: That’s a commendable initiative. how does the SL3-S redefine video recording capabilities?
LH: The SL3-S offers 6K resolution recording and a unique 3:2 open-gate recording feature. This allows filmmakers to record videos in various standard formats like portrait without compromising quality. Additionally, it records HDMI-RAW in 5.9K at 30 fps to external recorders, and internally records ProRes 4:2:2 HQ in 5.8K at 30 fps or C4K at 60 fps,without any recording time limits.
A: That’s quite a versatile camera. Apart from its impressive specs, what else sets the SL3-S apart?
LH: The SL3-S doesn’t compromise on connectivity. It features slots for CFexpress type B and UHS-II SD memory cards, a USB-C port for fast data transfer, tethering, SSD connection, and power supply, and a full-size HDMI 2.1 output for external LCD panels or recording devices. It also supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi with MIMO technology for a stable connection to the Leica FOTOS app, facilitating lightning-fast transfer of full-resolution DNG images. As an Apple “Made for iPhone® and iPad®” accessory, it seamlessly integrates with Apple devices.Plus,a Camera-to-Cloud function via Adobe Frame.io will be available in 2025, enabling direct upload of videos and photos from the camera to the cloud.
A: That’s an impressive array of features. Lastly, Lucas, what do you think this camera means for the world of professional photography and videography?
LH: The Leica SL3-S is undoubtedly a groundbreaking achievement in its class. It’s a testament to Leica’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in professional photography and videography. It’s more than just a camera; it’s a tool that empowers creators to tell their stories,their way,with unparalleled quality and efficiency.
A: Thank you, Lucas, for sharing your insights with us today. It’s evident that the Leica SL3-S is set to make waves in the world of professional imaging.
LH: My pleasure. I’m excited to see what creators will achieve with the SL3-S.
