OUTSTANDING IMAGE QUALITY

The outstanding imaging quality of the Leica S is not attributable to any single system component. Every single component is optimized to perfection, but its true powers are shown by their interaction. Decisive proof of this can be seen in the 37.5 megapixel CCD image sensor, specially developed for Leica, with micro lens shift and an infrared filter, which - together with the extremely high performance of the Maestro processor - ensures that creative ideas always lead to outstanding images.

SPEED

A fast processor alone is not enough to ensure high data throughput. You also need fast and large buffer memory. Boosting the Leica S's buffer to 2 GB means accelerated image processing across the board; however, its essential purpose is supporting long image sequences in continuous shooting mode. The Leica S can store up to 32 DNG files with lossless compression, or 28 uncompressed DNG files, at a full consecutive shooting speed of 1.5 fps, before the buffer is filled. In JPEG mode, the length of the consecutive shooting sequence is only limited by the capacity of the memory card.

VERSATILITY

The new Leica S was developed in cooperation with professional photographers to meet their requirements. Besides image quality, reliability, and ease of use, the focus was on photographic versatility. A dust and spray water protected camera body, the dual shutter system consisting of a focal plane and central shutter, and an extended ISO range for perfect adaptation to existing light, form the basis of the large range of photographic applications that the new Leica S masters: from advertising photography, through fashion, photo journalism, to nature and travel photography.

ERGONOMICS

The Leica S combines the dimensions of a 35mm SLR with the imaging quality of the medium format. Thanks to its ergonomic handgrip with improved anti-slip characteristic, the Leica S rests perfectly in your hands. Its center of gravity is positioned so as to prevent fatigue while you are working, as the camera is lighter than professional 35mm DSLRs at just 1260g (2.8 lbs.) (including battery) despite having an extremely robust magnesium body. In comparison with traditional medium-format system cameras, where a digital element had to be combined with an existing analog camera, the Leica S has the enormous advantage that all its components are perfectly placed. The result: perfect ergonomics.

INTUITIVE CONTROLS

When you hold a Leica S in your hands, you find the controls exactly where you expect them to be. Its layout and design, similar to that of a classic 35mm SLR, ensuring intuitive handling in every respect, for instance by combining familiar elements like the shutter speed dial with state-of-art controls. Everything about the Leica S is dedicated to providing photographers with all the options they need for a spontaneous style of work.

CONCENTRATION AND MINIMIZATION

Although a digital system camera offers numerous functions and settings, everyday professional photography demands one thing in particular – the ability to concentrate on the picture you want. With this in mind, Leica developed an incomparably intuitive operating concept for the S that relies on an absolute minimum of control elements. The central controls on the Leica S are the shutter speed dial, the click wheel and the 5-way button, which can be reached comfortably with your right thumb. These controls allow the photographer to adjust the exposure setting and navigate the menus. In a nutshell: anyone holding a Leica S in their hands for the first time can rely completely on their intuition when getting to know its extensive range of functions. In fact, it sets entirely new standards in user-friendliness.