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Leica has introduced the Q2, updating its predecessor with a higher resolution full-frame sensor, splash and dust resistance on par with the SL’s and an updated OLED viewfinder. The Q2 offers a 47.3MP full-frame sensor capable of DCI and UHD 4K video recording, and sticks with the stabilized 28mm F1.7 offered on the first Q.
The built-in viewfinder has been upgraded from a field-sequential LCD to an OLED panel with 3.68M dots. The Q2 is the same size as the Q but boasts the same IP52 weather-resistance rating as the SL, with a new internal structure to support weather sealing. The camera’s controls have been somewhat simplified, and drive mode options have been removed from the power switch.
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The Q2 continues to offer 35mm and 50mm in-camera crop functions, along with a new 75mm mode. Wi-Fi connectivity is now offered alongside Bluetooth Low Energy, a handy means of connecting camera to smartphone without constant re-pairing. The Q2 also uses a higher-capacity battery than the Q, bumping it up to 370 shots per charge.
The Leica Q2 begins shipping today for $ 4995.
Leica Q2: The Highly Anticipated Sequel to a Modern Milestone from Leica Camera
Achieve unparalleled photographic results in the most accessible way with Leica’s latest innovation
March 7, 2019 – Leica Camera raises the bar with the introduction of the Leica Q2 camera. Keeping consumer feedback top of mind following the immensely successful Leica Q, the Leica Q2 offers photographers expanded creative freedom via unprecedented imaging quality, added weather protection, an upgraded viewfinder, supremely precise autofocus and more. The Leica Q2 is the quintessential tool for available light photography, rain or shine, that promises to carry the torch of its predecessor forward to new heights and possibilities without making sacrifices.
Superior Imaging Quality Meets Unmatched Versatility
As with any Leica Camera, exceptional image quality reigns supreme, allowing photographers to consistently capture show-stopping imagery. The new Leica Q2’s full frame sensor is the highest resolution sensor in its class at 47.3 megapixels, offering users more resolution than the original Leica Q, and captures both impeccably detailed still pictures and 4K video. Together with its Leica Summilux 28 mm f/1.7 ASPH. lens, the Q2 ensures all-around exceptional imaging performance. This top-tier Leica optic guarantees optimum picture quality with exquisite bokeh characteristics in even the most difficult lighting scenarios.
With its high resolving power matched to its high-resolution sensor, the Leica Q2 goes beyond the conventional use cases of a 28 mm focal length via its built-in crop functions for equivalent focal lengths of 35 mm, 50 mm, and the newly available 75 mm – bringing with it more possibilities in the world of portraiture and close-up work. Thanks to the software design ingenuity of Leica engineers, when shooting cropped DNG files the full sensor image is still recorded, allowing photographers to undo or change the crop after the fact.
The Leica Q2 also adds 4K UHD and Cine4K video recording to its arsenal of features, with myriad frame rate options across 4K and 1080p, giving users impressive video recording from such a large sensor on the go to document memories or record short films.
Exceptional Quality and User Handling
The design of the Leica Q2 carries forward the Leica tradition of reduction to the essentials. The ‘Made in Germany’ seal of quality guarantees that only the finest and most resilient materials are employed in its construction. The distinctive thumb rest of the new Leica Q2 and the sophisticated diamond pattern of its leather trim ensure optimum grip and highlight the symbiosis of function and form.
Also new is the camera’s uniquely intuitive handling concept, following refined design language cues established from its brethren in the Leica M10 and Leica CL families – such as the single-stage On/Off switch, simplified three-button interface on the rear of the camera and programmable button within the thumb wheel dial. A new highlight of the Leica Q2 layout is the push-button diopter compensation dial on the back of the camera that locks and prevents accidental changes to the user’s desired setting. Every refinement, both large and small, pushes Leica’s design forward without losing sight of the core philosophy of the camera.
Following in-tune with impeccably intuitive user handling, in combination with the Leica FOTOS App, the camera’s integrated Wi-Fi module makes it possible to quickly and easily share pictures and video via social media. Bluetooth LE (Low Energy) enables a permanent connection to be established between camera and smartphone, making it possible for user to remotely wake the camera and connect any time when in range.
Make It Your Own With Accessories
A comprehensive and stylish range of optional accessories is also available for the Leica Q2. These include matching camera protector cases and carrying straps in premium-quality classic black and brown leather, and more vibrant versions in red and pink. The elegant new ‘Ettas’ line of soft, coated canvas pouches for various Leica camera models will also be launched at the same time as the Leica Q2. The pouches will initially be available in midnight blue, stone gray and red colorways, with more still to come. The accessory selection also includes technical equipment for the Leica Q2 such as the Leica SF 40, SF 60 flash units, the SF C1 remote flash control unit and an additional add-on thumb rest and handgrip. All accessories are functionally designed for easy handling, perfectly matching the quality and design of the camera and are manufactured from only the finest materials to ensure reliability for a lifetime of use.
An exhibition of Leica Q2 photography is on view at the Elga Wimmer Gallery in New York City for a limited engagement of 24-hours on March 7th featuring the works of Hiram Garcia, President of Production of Seven Bucks Production and film/television producer. The series, titled ‘Behind the Seen’, is a diverse collection of images that strive to highlight the beauty and intrigue of the movie industry and marks Garcia’s debut photographic gallery exhibition. Garcia’s ‘Behind the Seen’ is the first and only exhibition worldwide shot exclusively on the new Leica Q2 camera.
The Leica Q2 is on sale beginning today at Leica Stores, Boutiques and Dealers. The camera will be sold in black paint finish for $ 4,995.
Leica Q2 specifications
| Price | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $ 4995 |
| Body type | |
| Body type | Large sensor compact |
| Body material | Magnesium alloy |
| Sensor | |
| Max resolution | 8368 x 5584 |
| Other resolutions | 28mm: 6000 x 4000, 4272 x 2848 | 35mm: 6704 x 4472, 4800 x 3200, 3424 x 2288 | 50mm: 4688 x 3128, 3360 x 2240, 2400 x 1600 | 75mm: 3136 x 2096, 2240 x 1496, 1600 x 1072 |
| Image ratio w:h | 3:2 |
| Effective pixels | 47 megapixels |
| Sensor photo detectors | 50 megapixels |
| Sensor size | Full frame (36 x 24 mm) |
| Sensor type | CMOS |
| Color space | sRGB, Adobe RGB, ECI RGB |
| Color filter array | Primary color filter |
| Image | |
| ISO | Auto, 50-50000 |
| White balance presets | 5 |
| Custom white balance | Yes |
| Image stabilization | Optical |
| Uncompressed format | RAW |
| File format |
|
| Optics & Focus | |
| Focal length (equiv.) | 28 mm |
| Optical zoom | 1× |
| Maximum aperture | F1.7 |
| Autofocus |
|
| Digital zoom | Yes (1.2x (35mm equiv), 1.5x (50mm equiv), 2x (75mm)) |
| Manual focus | Yes |
| Normal focus range | 30 cm (11.81″) |
| Macro focus range | 17 cm (6.69″) |
| Number of focus points | 49 |
| Screen / viewfinder | |
| Articulated LCD | Fixed |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 1,040,000 |
| Touch screen | Yes |
| Screen type | TFT LCD |
| Live view | Yes |
| Viewfinder type | Electronic |
| Viewfinder coverage | 100% |
| Viewfinder magnification | 0.76× |
| Photography features | |
| Minimum shutter speed | 60 sec |
| Maximum shutter speed | 1/2000 sec |
| Maximum shutter speed (electronic) | 1/40000 sec |
| Exposure modes |
|
| Scene modes |
|
| Built-in flash | No |
| External flash | Yes (via hotshoe) |
| Flash X sync speed | 1/2000 sec |
| Continuous drive | 20.0 fps |
| Self-timer | Yes (2 or 12 secs) |
| Metering modes |
|
| Exposure compensation | ±3 (at 1/3 EV steps) |
| AE Bracketing | ±3 (3 frames at 1/3 EV steps) |
| Videography features | |
| Resolutions | 4K/30/24p, 1080/120/60/30/24p |
| Format | MPEG-4 |
| Microphone | Stereo |
| Storage | |
| Storage types | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
| Connectivity | |
| USB charging | No |
| HDMI | No |
| Wireless | Built-In |
| Wireless notes | WiFi and Bluetooth Low Energy |
| Remote control | Yes (via smartphone) |
| Physical | |
| Environmentally sealed | Yes (IP52 rated) |
| Battery | Battery Pack |
| Battery description | BP-SCL4 |
| Battery Life (CIPA) | 370 |
| Weight (inc. batteries) | 718 g (1.58 lb / 25.33 oz) |
| Dimensions | 130 x 80 x 92 mm (5.12 x 3.15 x 3.62″) |
| Other features | |
| Timelapse recording | Yes |
| GPS | None |
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
