Leica Camera has launched the Leica Q2 Monochrom, the only full frame compact camera with dedicated monochrome sensor.
The new Leica Q2 Monochrom camera. (Source: Leica Camera.)
This next-generation model in the Leica Q line of cameras features a new, 47.3 megapixel full-frame monochrome sensor but retains the fast Leica Summilux 28 mm f/1.7 ASPH. prime lens, fast and precise autofocus and OLED viewfinder technology of the original Leica Q2. It is able to capture both highly-detailed still pictures and 4K video at ISO sensitivities up to 100,000 and its 28mm lens boasts a close focusing distance of 17 cm with the macro mode setting. The integrated digital zoom function enables users to shoot with focal lengths up to 75 mm in addition to the uncropped 28 mm focal length. Users can select focal lengths of 35, 50 or 75 millimetres and the selected crop will be displayed as a bright-line frame in the viewfinder and on the rear monitor. The cropped image will be saved in JPEG format with reduced resolutions of 47.3, 30, 14.7, or 6.6 megapixels and also saved simultaneously as a DNG file with the full sensor resolution.
The new camera’s AF system can focus in less than 0.15 seconds, making it one of the fastest cameras in its class. Ongoing improvements to the Maestro processor enable a higher sequential shooting rate with up to 10 frames per second at full resolution. Monochrome 4K video recordings can be made at frame rates of 30 or 24 fps, with rates of 120, 60, 30 or 24 fps available in Full HD format. The camera’s integrated Wi-Fi module combined with the Leica FOTOS App makes it easy to share pictures via social media, change camera settings from a smartphone or remotely control the shutter release. Bluetooth LE (Low Energy) provides a permanent connection between the camera and a smartphone.
Front view of the Leica Q2 Monochrom showing its classic body styling. (Source: Leica Camera.)
The Leica Q2 Monochrom retains the classic body styling of its predecessors and the ‘Made in Germany’ seal of quality guarantees that only the finest and most resilient materials are employed in its construction. The menu structure has been streamlined and adapted to the special features of a monochrome camera. A comprehensive range of optional accessories is also available, including protectors and carrying straps in premium-quality leather in different colours, as well as bags and wrist straps in various designs. Three new, specially calculated E49 colour filters in yellow, green and orange are also available along with the Leica SF 40, SF 60 flash units, the SF C1 remote flash control unit, an additional thumb rest and a handgrip with matching leatherette.
The Leica Q2 Monochrom is on sale from today at authorised Leica dealers, priced at an RRP of AU$8,990. Click here for more information.
