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Posts Tagged ‘rangefinder’

Leica’s 40 Megapixel M10-R is its highest resolution rangefinder yet

18 Jul

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Leica has introduced the M10-R, the highest resolution member of its M10-series yet. The M10-R’s 40 Megapixel sensor is largely the same as the one in the M10 Monochrom, with the main difference being (naturally) that it has a Bayer color filter. Leica claims that the new sensor offers a wider dynamic range in Raw mode and less noise than previous M10 bodies.

Like the Monochrom and the M10-P, the ‘R’ has the quietest shutter of any M-series camera (film bodies included).

The M10-R features a 3″ fixed touchscreen with 1.04 million dots, which can be used for live view and reviewing images. It has a single SD card slot (UHS-I only) and Wi-Fi, but not Bluetooth. As with its siblings, the M10-R does not have a USB or HDMI port. As always with Leica cameras, it’s made in Germany and build quality is exceptional.

The M10-R will go on sale later this month, in your choice of black or silver, for $ 8295.

Go hands-on with the M10-R

Press release

LEICA CAMERA ELEVATES IMAGE QUALITY WITH NEW M10-R

A new 40-megapixel color sensor brings broader capabilities into the creative landscape

July 16, 2020 – Leica Camera introduces a new high-resolution version of the company’s legendary rangefinder camera, expanding vivid creative possibilities from the most human moments in street photography to the most epic landscapes. With its unique 40 megapixel color sensor, the new Leica M10-R delivers enhanced rendition of details to fully explore the optical excellence of the legendary Leica M lenses. This new flagship expands the M10 family, which includes the M10, M10-P, M10-D and M10 Monochrom, and achieves maximum image output without compromising the tenets of M photography.

The M10-R’s newly developed 40 megapixel sensor represents a considerable increase from the 24 megapixels of the M10, and yet the M10-R offers significantly reduced image noise as well as a wider dynamic range. The sensitivity range of this new sensor, from ISO 100 to 50000, ensures it can be used in any situation a photographer may need. That base ISO of 100 helps allow bright light photos where the aperture can be kept wide-open for better background blur and bokeh, while on the other side of the spectrum the maximum exposure time has been increased to 16 minutes for more creative freedom with long exposures in the darkest light. Complementing the Leica M10-R’s imaging prowess and handling is its super quiet mechanical shutter, inherited from the M10-P. Its whisper-quiet operation helps the user be stealthy, when capturing that decisive moment requires the utmost discretion, and its minimal vibrations reduce the risk of camera shake to help yield sharper pictures.

As with all of Leica’s rangefinder cameras, the construction of the M10-R involves a large amount of hand assembly utilizing the best quality materials by highly trained specialists, carried out at the company’s production plant in Wetzlar, Germany. This ensures that the large number of components – such as the complex rangefinder mechanism – not only perform with the utmost precision but are also particularly robust and long-lasting. A Leica M is synonymous with reliability and durability, making it a valuable long-term investment.

The Leica M10-R reaches its full potential when paired with its native Leica M lenses. The camera has the capacity to fully utilize the outstanding imaging performance of this legendary, longstanding lens range. The M10-R truly sings when paired with the newest generation of Leica’s technical marvels of optics, such as the APO-Summicron-M 50 f/2 ASPH., capturing photographs of a truly exceptional quality. Concurrently, the M10-R’s newfound heights of image quality and resolution also emphasizes the distinct characteristics of older M lenses, many of which are still cherished by vintage photography enthusiasts to this day.

The Leica M10-R will be available end of July at Leica Stores, Boutiques and Dealers for $ 8,295.00 in black chrome and silver chrome finishes.

Leica M10-R specifications

Price
MSRP $ 8295
Body type
Body type Rangefinder-style mirrorless
Body material Magnesium alloy
Sensor
Max resolution 7864 x 5200
Image ratio w:h 3:2
Effective pixels 41 megapixels
Sensor size Full frame (36 x 24 mm)
Sensor type CMOS
Processor Maestro II
Color filter array Primary color filter
Image
ISO Auto, 100-50000
Custom white balance Yes
Image stabilization No
Uncompressed format RAW
File format
  • JPEG
  • DNG (14-bit)
Optics & Focus
Manual focus Yes
Lens mount Leica M
Focal length multiplier 1×
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD Fully articulated
Screen size 3″
Screen dots 1,036,800
Touch screen Yes
Screen type TFT LCD
Live view Yes
Viewfinder type Optical (rangefinder)
Viewfinder magnification 0.73×
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed 960 sec
Maximum shutter speed 1/4000 sec
Exposure modes
  • Aperture priority
  • Manual
Built-in flash No
External flash Yes (via hot shoe)
Flash X sync speed 1/180 sec
Self-timer Yes
Videography features
Microphone None
Speaker None
Storage
Storage types SD/SDHC/SDXC card
Connectivity
Microphone port No
Headphone port No
Wireless Built-In
Wireless notes 802.11b/g/n
Remote control Yes (cable release)
Physical
Environmentally sealed Yes
Battery Battery Pack
Battery description BC-SCL5 lithium-ion battery & charger
Weight (inc. batteries) 660 g (1.46 lb / 23.28 oz)
Dimensions 139 x 39 x 80 mm (5.47 x 1.54 x 3.15″)
Other features
Orientation sensor Yes
GPS Optional

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Pixii’s 12MP display-less M-mount rangefinder is now available to order

08 Jul

It’s been almost two years since the French startup Pixii announced its display-less digital M-mount rangefinder that uses your smartphone as both a screen and means of storage. Now, the niche camera is available to purchase, but don’t expect to pick it up for cheap.

To recap, the Pixii camera (Model A1112) is a digital M-mount rangefinder constructed of an aluminum frame that houses the 12MP (4080 x 2732 pixels) APS-C CMOS sensor. It features an electronic global shutter, Raw (DNG) capture and works with Leica M-mount lenses, as well as M39/LTM lenses when used with an adapter.

Similar to the Leica M-D, the Pixii camera eschews a rear LCD display and instead relies on being paired with a smartphone to review images captured through the 0.67x magnification optical viewfinder (53.6-degree FOV). The only display on the camera is a small OLED screen on the top of the camera that shows the basic image settings.

The Pixii camera also forgoes an SD card and instead stores images on 8GB of internal storage (4GB if you pick up the ‘launch edition’ model). Once filled, images can be transferred wirelessly to a paired mobile device via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The camera also uses a built-in 1,000mAh Li-ion battery that can be recharged via the onboard USB port.

While we haven’t taken it for a spin ourselves, our friend Hamish Gill of 35mmc fame spent some time with one of the units and wrote up a comprehensive review of his experience with one of the first units.

Pixii has also shared a number of sample photos captured with one of its cameras:

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The Pixii camera is available to purchase on the Pixii website. The 8GB model comes in ‘Space Gray’ and ‘Black Matte’ finishes and retails for €2,900 / ~$ 3,277, while the special ‘launch edition’ comes in at €2,900 / ~$ 3,259. There’s no information at this time on shipment timeframes, but we’ve contacted Pixii about the matter and will update accordingly when we receive a response.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Leica’s M10 Monochrom is a discreet black and white rangefinder

17 Jan

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Leica has introduced its latest dedicated black and white rangefinder camera, the M10 Monochrom. It uses a new 40MP sensor that Leica says was ‘designed from the ground up’ to handle black and white photography. The new sensor has lowered the base ISO from 320 to 160, and Leica also claims an improvement in dynamic range.

To go along with its black and white pictures, Leica has removed any hint of color on the camera body. The neutral gray body has no red Leica badge or any scripting on top, giving it a stealthy appearance. The body is just as thin as the other M10 models and has the ISO dial they introduced. It also has the same silent shutter and touchscreen display as the M10-P. Photos can be transmitted via Wi-Fi and Leica’s Fotos app.

The M10 Monochrom is now available for $ 8295.

Official sample photos

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Press Release

Leica Camera Advances its Dedication to the Art of Black & White Photography with the Leica M10 Monochrom

The highly anticipated camera enters a new dimension of innovation in the world of monochrome photography

January 17, 2020 – Leica Camera continues to be a trailblazer in the world of black-and-white photography with the announcement of the new Leica M10 Monochrom. Photographers are now able explore their subjects in vivid tones of monochrome due to the omission of a color filter, resulting in an unparalleled black-and-white photography experience. The newly developed 40-megapixel true black-and-white sensor, new Wi-Fi capabilities and expanded ISO range make room for added creativity with light and contrast, bringing photographers back to the basics with the most up-to-date technology.

Black-and-white photography lends itself to establishing emotional connections between the photographer and subject matter being conveyed. With the absence of color, a photograph conveys intense, vulnerable and timeless messages that speak to the foundation of a scene without the distractions of color.

The ultra-high resolution black-and-white sensor of the M10 Monochrom delivers images with impeccable sharpness and unrivalled resolution of details in all lighting conditions. While reaching these new feats of resolving prowess, the new M10 Monochrom is even more versatile than its black-and-white forebears, with a broadened sensitivity range at both extremes, now achieving ISO 160 to ISO 100,000 – ensuring that its unmatched imaging strengths can be used in new avenues, from the brightest of days to uncovering light in the darkest of nights. Images captured at all ISO settings offer fine-grained rendition of details with a more analog look and feel than a typical color camera set to black-and-white mode. As is the case with all Leica M-Cameras, the new black-and-white sensor pairs perfectly with the full breadth of Leica M-Lenses, showcasing their contrast, resolution and rendition of the finest details. With this combination, photographers can rest assured that the exceptional quality of the monochrome images they capture holds true to the luminance of their subject.

Based on the Leica M10-P, the M10 Monochrom now benefits from a bevy of newfound abilities for the Monochrom line, including a slimmer body, dedicated ISO dial, touchscreen controls, the quietest mechanical shutter of all Leica M rangefinders – analog or digital – and built-in Wi-Fi for wireless connectivity to the Leica FOTOS app on iOS, iPadOS and Android. For the first time in the history of Leica M Monochrom cameras, users can utilize a mobile workflow that gives them direct access to authentic black-and-white images straight from the camera to their favored social media platform – no digital filters required. The FOTOS 2.0 app helps bring Leica users from the decisive moment of taking the picture to the creative moment of processing and sharing the finished photo as seamlessly as possible. This new freedom ensures no boundaries when it comes to capturing and sharing photographs with a Leica camera.

The design of the M10 Monochrom camera body is as loyal to the strict adherence to the black-and-white aesthetic as the image sensor that lives within it. The camera has no Leica red dot logo on the front and all of the usual bold red engravings found on most M cameras have been desaturated to a neutral gray, creating a sleek monochromatic contrast against its bright white engraved numbers. A subtle black-on-black logotype of “Leica M10 Monochrom” on the top plate gives the camera the most minimal branding to avoid distractions. The black-and-white design details combined with the newly blacked-out shutter button and lens release make the M10 Monochrom the stealthiest serial production camera yet from Leica, emphasizing its focus on blending into the heart of the action and capturing the decisive moment.

The M10 Monochrom is built to the highest quality standards expected of a Leica M camera, made almost entirely by hand through the passionate labor of experienced specialists in Wetzlar, Germany with the finest materials, ensuring it can bear even the toughest conditions of use in its stride. The new Leica M10 Monochrom promises to be a long-term companion that delivers an unparalleled experience and impeccable image quality, as timeless as the classical black-and-white photos it creates.

The Leica M10 Monochrom is available beginning today for $ 8,295 at Leica Stores, Boutiques and Dealers.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Zenit M full-frame rangefinder camera made in collaboration with Leica arrives in the US

18 Dec

The Zenit M full-frame rangefinder digital camera made in collaboration with Leica is now available to purchase in the United States. The rangefinder features a 24MP CMOS sensor and Leica M39 mount; it is being sold with a 35mm F1.0 Zenitar manual focus lens.

This rangefinder model first started shipping in Europe in late 2018, later arriving in Russia earlier this year. The Zenit M’s arrival in the US marks the latest expansion of this vintage brand camera, which was designed in Russia and produced in Wetzler, Germany.

The Zenit M is essentially a Leica M240 camera with the Zenit M logo, design changes and certain software-based differences, including support for only a few Zenit lenses. The model was first announced in 2016 by Russian factory Krasnogorsky Zavod and, after months of mystery, was finally unveiled in September 2018 as what is essentially a Leica camera.

A total of 500 Zenit M cameras are being put up for sale globally. Buyers in the US can get the camera as part of a kit that includes the 35mm F1.0 Zenitar lens, a case, a hardbound book and a collector’s card for $ 6,995. The silver version of the camera is available to purchase now; the black version will be available ‘soon.’

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Leica launches the M-E (Typ 240), a more budget-friendly M-system rangefinder

25 Jun

Leica has introduced a new M-E model designed to give users access to the M system at a lower price than would usually be required to buy one of its rangefinders. The M-E (Typ 240) replaces the M-E (Typ 220) first introduced in 2017 and delivers several upgraded features.

The new model offers a 24MP CMOS sensor, presumably the one from the 2012 Leica M (Typ 240). So, while it matches the resolution of the top end M10-P, it has an ISO range limited to the same 200-6400 as the older camera.

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The buffer for drive shooting and clearing images to the memory card is also increased to 2GB, allowing three frames per second, and this new model can shoot video—but only in 1080p FHD. A special grey anthracite paint coats the body of the camera, the rear display is a 3-inch 920k-dot screen and Leica claims the M-E (Typ 240) is dust and spray proof. The viewfinder has a 0.68x magnification.

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Details are still a bit thin on the ground as Leica hasn’t released any further technical specifications yet, but retailers are advertising the M-E (Typ 240) for £3500 / $ 3995 body only. The camera is set to be available at the end of July 2019.

For more information see the Leica website.

Manufacturer information:

Leica M-E (Typ 240)

Welcome to the M Family!

The moment in which you decide to purchase a Leica M changes your view of the world. And making the choice has never been easier: become the proud owner of the new Leica M-E, benefit from its exceptionally favourable retail price, and use this opportunity to join the family of M photographers.

The new Leica M-E continues the unique tradition of rangefinder photography. A stringent paring down to the most essential camera functions ensures a streamlined and intuitive operation. Compact, quiet and characteristically discreet, the new Leica M-E allows photographers to blend into their surroundings, establish a direct connection with their subject, and capture each scene with absolute authenticity and brilliant image quality.

Available End of July 2019!

The Leica Rangefinder System Seeing the Bigger Picture
Leica’s unique M-System – whose name is based on the German term ‘Messsucher’, meaning rangefinder — has been making history for 65 years. The ‘Messsucher’ presents a bigger picture – a broader view of your subject – and opens up a whole new world of creative freedom: this enables the photographer to anticipate the way in which a composition might develop — and press the shutter at the decisive moment.

Consequently, Leica M cameras are particularly suited to street and reportage photography. In addition, the rangefinder allows for a fast and precise focus, even in challenging lighting conditions.

The Iconic M Design

Visual and Tactile Perfection
The Leica M-E (Typ 240) is distinguished by a timelessly elegant aesthetic and high-end construction; each model is handcrafted in Germany. The compact camera body is dust and spray water resistant, while the genuine leather trim offers both a sophisticated appearance and a safer grip on the camera. Top and base plate are finished in an anthracite grey paint which has been developed especially for the M-E.

As with all Leica M models, owners of the new M-E benefit from the comprehensive system compatibility that distinguishes the Leica M series: thanks to the M bayonet mount, the M-E is compatible with nearly every M lens ever produced — and so represents a particularly sustainable investment.

24-Megapixel CMOS Sensor

Image Quality without Compromise
The new Leica M-E ranks among the most compact full-frame camera systems in the world. Its 24MP CMOS sensor offers a high light sensitivity of up to ISO 6400 – facilitating outstanding image results even in low-light situations. Its 2GB buffer memory ensures that the Leica M-E is always ready to shoot, even when capturing a rapid succession of frames – so you can rest assured that you will never miss out on the decisive moment.

Integrated Video Function

Leica Look in Full-HD
Thanks to its exceedingly high resolution and light sensitivity, the Leica M-E delivers photographs imbued with the classic ‘Leica look’, characterized by a unique bokeh rendition. Owners of the new Leica M-E are also able to apply this distinctive quality to their moving images: the Leica M-E features a 1080p, full-HD movie mode — allowing you to capture stunning videos using a dedicated recording button, adding yet another dimension to your creative pursuits.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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The Leica M10-D is a Wi-Fi-powered rangefinder with no LCD

27 Oct

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The Leica M10-D is a rangefinder camera that provides a film-like shooting experience. It has no LCD, just two buttons and is set up almost entirely using the company’s FOTOS app.

The M10-D is the spiritual successor to the older M-D, but has much in common with the M10-P when it comes to both design and technology. In place of the M10-P’s LCD is a large dial, the inner ring of which adjusts exposure compensation while the outer switches between off, on (shooting mode) and on (Wi-Fi enabled). The camera features what looks like an old-style film advance lever, but in this case it’s merely a thumb rest. Like the M10-P there’s no red dot on the front plate, though it’s hard to miss the trademark white Leica script on the top.

Inside, the M10-D uses the same 24MP full-frame CMOS sensor and Maestro II processor as the M10 and M10-P, and saves images as DNG or JPEG. The camera has 2GB of built-in memory as well as an SD card slot hidden under the removable bottom plate. The M10-D supports Leica’s Visoflex electronic viewfinder, and automatically switches to live view mode when the finder is attached.

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What makes the M10-D different than other Leica rangefinders is its dependence on the company’s FOTOS app, which is available for iOS and Android. While you can adjust exposure compensation, ISO, aperture and shutter speed using the dials on the camera, for everything else, you use the app. The most obvious uses for the app are live view and image transfer (which includes DNG), and this is also where you’ll access less commonly-required settings. Pairing your camera and smartphone is impressively straightforward, and the one-time action merely requires scanning a QR code printed under the M10D’s bottom plate.

The Leica M10-D goes on sale today for $ 7995. The Visoflex EVF is priced at $ 575.

Images shot on the M10-D by photographer Tomas van Houtryve

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Press Release

Leica Camera Debuts the Leica M10-D

The Camera with a Digital Heart and an Analog Soul

October 24, 2018 – Leica Camera transports the analog experience into the world of digital photography with the introduction of the Leica M10-D. The Leica M10-D combines the benefits of a digital M camera with an unprecedented approach to rediscovering the magic of an analog photographic experience, now augmented with mobile connectivity.

The ultimate experiential camera, the Leica M10-D is inspired by the discreet M10-P. In addition to incorporating the M10-P’s signature near-silent mechanical shutter and classic script logo branding on the top plate, the Leica M10-D’s monitor screen has been purposefully omitted from the camera body, freeing photographers from all distractions and allowing them to always focus on capturing the moment, rather than the camera itself. In lieu of the screen on the back of the camera is a new control ring for switching the camera on and off, with a dedicated hardware setting for activating Wi-Fi – a key piece to modernizing the analog-inspired workflow of the M10-D. Within the rear control ring is a mechanical dial for exposure compensation adjustments, a first for digital M models, harkening back to the ISO film sensitivity dial seen on classic analog M-Cameras.

In keeping with the mechanical spirit, all essential exposure settings on the Leica M10-D are made with mechanical controls. To further enhance the analog look and experience of this camera, the Leica M10-D features an integrated fold-out thumb rest, reminiscent of a classic film advance lever, which aids in the ergonomics and handling of the camera – especially when shooting one-handed. The optional Visoflex electronic viewfinder can also be used with the Leica M10-D to bridge the gap between analog and digital experiences by way of live view capture, and for easier use of wide-angle and telephoto lenses. When paired with the camera’s improved rangefinder and larger field of view, an innovation from the Leica M10, the Leica M10-D and Visoflex allow photographers to truly see the bigger picture from any angle.

With the soul of an analog camera at its core, the M10-D combines perfectly with the brand new Leica FOTOS app to transcend a solely classic shooting style and provide many of the features and functions offered by a modern, high-performance digital camera. By quickly switching the camera to the on position with Wi-Fi, the M10-D can seamlessly connect to an iOS or Android device, making it the perfect hybrid of analog feel and digital connectivity. The Leica FOTOS app allows easy use of the camera when on the go by enabling streamlined portable viewing, sharing of images and the selection of core camera settings. The app can also provide exposure settings and can be used as a remote viewfinder and camera shutter in live view mode. All personalized settings made from the app are saved and stored in the camera, enabling photographers to configure and custom tailor the Leica M10-D to meet their specific needs. The Leica FOTOS app can also be used to transfer pictures to iOS and Android devices for sharing in social media channels and saving to a personal photostream. With the Leica M10-D and the Leica FOTOS app, photographers can choose how analog or how digital they want their photographic experience to be, ensuring they find the perfect balance for their everyday journey in photography.

The Leica M10-D will be on sale beginning today at Leica Stores, Boutiques and Dealers for $ 7,995. The Leica FOTOS App will also be available as a free download from the Google Play Store™ and the Apple App Store™ on the same date.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Pixii is a display-less digital rangefinder that connects to your smartphone

22 Oct

French startup Pixii has announced its first product, the Pixii camera. The Pixii is a digital rangefinder with an M-mount that pairs with your smartphone to use the mobile device’s display and memory.

The machined aluminum body houses a CMOS sensor with global electronic shutter and 12-bit sampling rate that, according to Pixii, offers a dynamic range of 60-90dB. Base ISO is 200 and gain can be adjusted from ISO 100 to 6400. Unfortunately at this point there is no information on the sensor’s dimensions or pixel count. All we know is it features a 5.5µm pixel pitch.

Lenses are attached via a Leica M mount but, using an adapter, you can also shoot with M39 and LTM lenses. Shutter speed can set to auto or manual but focus and aperture are controlled manually only.

“The digital camera hasn’t changed much since the 90s,” says PIXII founder David Barth. “But now the new generation is learning photography with a smartphone: who understands why a camera still needs to bother with a screen or an SD card?”

On the camera’s back there is no display but an optical viewfinder that offers a 0.67x magnification, LED backlit frame lines (40/50mm and 28/35mm) and exposure indicators. LED brightness adjusts automatically and the viewfinder also offers automatic parallax correction.

On the top plate you can find a small OLED control screen that displays the most important camera and image settings but images have to be reviewed on the display of your smartphone. There is no card slot either. Instead images are saved into 8 or 32GB of built-in memory or directly transferred to your phone.

Other features include a tripod mount, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity (presumably for connecting to the smartphone) and a 1000mAh Li-ion battery.

There is no information yet on pricing or availability but we will let you know as soon as we get an update from Pixii.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Rare Leica KE-7A military rangefinder camera for sale on eBay

22 Dec

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eBay seller M&K Kamera has something for the vintage Leica lovers out there – a rare KE-7A with Leitz Elcan 50mm F2 lens, all in working condition. The KE-7A is a military version of the M4 that was produced in limited numbers in the 1970s.

The seller, asking $ 24,898.85 for the camera and its lens, says that both are in excellent condition and that the shutter is still in working order. Given the camera’s heritage and who it was made for, we’d expect it to keep on clicking for a long time to come. You can check out the listing on eBay if you’ve got $ 25 grand burning a hole in your pocket.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Rangefinder magazine announces 30 rising stars of wedding photography for 2016

20 Dec

30 Rising Stars of Wedding Photography

Rangefinder magazine has announced selections for its fifth annual 30 Rising Stars of Wedding Photography for 2016, based on submissions by photographers from over 200 countries. Rangefinder is the official publication of the annual Wedding and Portrait Photographers International (WPPI) conference, and honorees will be featured in the December issue of Rangefinder, as well as on display at the WPPI Conference+Expo from Feb. 5-9 in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

We’ve highlighted a few of our favorite photos from this year’s selections, and you can find a complete online gallery here.

Above: Lato Photography/Laura&Tommy (Italy) “One of our favorite weddings of the last season. We were dealing with very difficult and shiny light, and we had to get the best from that situation so we captured this moment using a 45mm tilt-shift lens to create a softer background. The strength of this image comes from their hand positions creating a harmonious line, the delicate colors of their clothing matching with the background and, of course, the bride’s look.”

Lukas Piatek (Germany)

“During a wedding day, I often try to take photos of small children. They are not disturbed by the camera at all and just do whatever they would do if I was not around. This little boy was basically running around the dance floor the entire evening, and at one point, I literally waited for him to do something special. I did not expect, however, that he would jump so perfectly, raising his arms in the air, looking into the light and being perfectly centered and framed on the dance floor. The shot was made two years ago and it was my favorite photo from that year.”

Jacob Loafman (USA)

“So, this couple’s ceremony and reception were held at their church. However, their church had recently built a brand new building, but they informed me they still had access to the old church. They wanted to know if I would like to do the main wedding party and bride/groom portraits there. I excitedly agreed and we headed that way. As soon as we walked in, I almost fell over from how amazing the building was inside. It was vacant. Completely vacant. This vacant space still featured the remnants of where the previously used cross hung on the wall. It was just beautiful.”

“I noticed there was still access to the balcony and wanted to do a full wedding party portrait from up there. My idea was to just have them arrange themselves randomly. I provided very little direction, as that’s what I wanted. My desire was to create a group portrait that felt more like an album cover, where the entire group was the focal point, but the vacancy and tattered old floors added an element of interest to the shot. After I released the shutter button a few times, I knew I had accomplished what I was going for.”

People Truelove Tellers (Spain)

“This was a very lucky one. We didn’t actually want to shoot it because we were running out of time and were on our way to another spot for portrait pictures. We were driving in a tiny, narrow and lonely road in the middle of nowhere outside of Madrid, and suddenly a full flock of sheep crossed the road. That was perfect because they ran away to the hill in the perfect direction of the sunset. I asked for the couple to follow them and the photo came!”

Tim and Laura Sullivan (USA)

“Chip and Karyn had a lot they wanted to do for their wedding (ranging from Prince impersonators to multiple live bands), but in the end, they chose an in-town elopement with just their two kiddos and us. Tim officiated, Laura took the ceremony photos, and we spent the day gallivanting around some of the most gorgeous spots in Seattle (we even organized a private chef in an industrial loft for them, because going above and beyond for our clients is our favorite thing). This shot is from the deck of their unfinished condo during their ceremony. Our florist came in and covered the construction dust with the most gorgeous arrangements, almost like their own little Wonderland. Their daughters were crying, we were crying—oh man, was it all memorable.”

Marko Marinkovic (Croatia)

“My editing process aims to resemble the colors of the visual artists from the 16th and 17th century as they, among others, struck a foundation for all of us. Each of the paintings I visit for inspiration gives me insight on the thought process a painter must go through in order to recreate 3D light on a two-dimensional surface. From framing the scene on the square canvas to choosing the color palette, it stays pretty much the same in photography today. Spoiled by the digital era we often overshoot and undermine the thought process behind the images we create.”

The Hendrys (Scotland)

“This was one of the most heartfelt weddings we’ve captured to date. The sun was out—when it was forecasted to rain heavily—emotions were running high and the couple and their guests exuded happiness throughout the whole day. At that moment, we thought to ourselves, is this really our job?! And from then on, we knew it was what we wanted to continue doing for as long as we possibly could.”

Lucy Spartalis (Australia)

“Working with Paul and his groomsmen was like spending a day on the set of Monty Python. LOOK at those mustaches; socks; sexual poses. My partner Alastair and I were wiping tears away between every shot. At one point, someone did a handstand and someone else started posing provocatively on the floor. I could’ve just shot them as they already were, but with a little zhuzhing (I checked that spelling, by the way—what a word)—positioning Paul between the spread legs of the groomsman behind him, asking another gent to kneel on one knee to create a mid-level point of interest, etc—we created a more balanced and dynamic composition. I don’t like to pose people too heavily in most cases, but when you’re onto a good thing, a little directorial tweaking can really take things to the next level.”

Heather Liddell (New Zealand)

“Spring weddings are something special. Julia was greeted by an ecstatic Graham and a sun shower when she reached the top of the aisle. The beads of water caught the light and created the most amazing effect. I crouched low so I could create an angle to get in a little sun flare and to make sure that the rain drops would be highlighted against the dark hedge.”

Pablo Beglez (Spain)

“A few minutes after Paula got out of her room to go directly to the altar, she had a problem with the dress. The designer was there with us and had to take a needle and thread and sew the dress right there. Those were some minutes of stress, but it finally was great.”

Jacob Murphy (USA)

“It was toward the end of the night and the dance party was reaching a crescendo, but I couldn’t help but notice this perfect vignette of everyone’s shoes. I love when details can tell a strong story too. I used an indirect tunnel flash technique to make this photo more interesting.”

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Leica launches M-D (Typ 262) digital rangefinder with no rear screen

29 Apr

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German camera manufacturer Leica has announced a new M digital rangefinder that has no LCD panel. The Leica M-D (Typ 262) will be almost exactly the same as the existing M (Typ 262) but without a rear screen for reviewing images and working the menu. The company says it has produced a camera with only the ‘essentials of photography’, or ‘Das Wescentliche’, and that it will help photographers concentrate on the important elements of image making rather than getting distracted with the camera functions.

This isn’t the first time Leica has produced a digital M with no rear screen, as the company launched the limited edition M Edition 60 to mark the sixtieth anniversary of its rangefinder camera system. Leica made only 600 of these models, and they sell for about $ 18,000/£12,000, but the M-D (Typ 262) will be the first full production model without a rear LCD.

This new model will feature the standard 24MP CMOS sensor, will have an ISO range of 200-6400, and will have brass base and top plates. The viewfinder has a magnification of 0.68x and offers bright-frame markings for 35/135mm, 28/90mm and 50/75mm lenses. The body has no traditional red dot as Leica says it wants the camera to be discrete, and the single frame mode uses a particularly quiet shutter cocking system.

Users will have control only of aperture, shutter speed and ISO settings, and the camera records in DNG Raw format only.

The Leica M-D (Typ 262) will go on sale in May with a price of $ 5995/£4650. The M (Typ 262), which does feature a rear screen, actually costs less, at $ 5195/£4050, but it doesn’t have the quiet shutter or brass top and bottom plates.

For more information visit the Leica website.

Press release:

Leica M-D: The return of anticipation

New digital Leica rangefinder focuses on the absolute essentials of photography, and excludes an LCD screen
 
Leica Camera has extended its iconic rangefinder camera series with a new model: the Leica M-D (Typ 262). The fifth product in the Leica M range, the Leica M-D joins the Leica M and M-P (Typ 240), the Leica M (Typ 262) and the Leica M Monochrom (Typ 246), offering a greater choice for photographers looking for specific functionality from their rangefinder camera.
 
The Leica M-D is the first serial production model of the digital M family to be made without an LCD monitor screen. The standard location of the screen on the back of the camera is taken by the ISO sensitivity setting dial – one of the few, but essential, features of the camera. Although the Leica M-D embodies the entire range of technical developments perfected over decades for the Leica rangefinder system, it intentionally omits all but the most vital features. Concentrating entirely on the key parameters required for photography: shutter speed, aperture, distance and ISO sensitivity, the Leica M-D focuses the user on the most essential aspect – the picture they are taking – and brings back the anticipation of discovering the results later in the process, as when shooting with film.
 
Jason Heward, managing director, Leica UK, said, “With the exclusion of the ubiquitous LCD screen, photographers must return to the principles of photography when shooting with the Leica M-D: accurate framing and composition, selecting the appropriate parameters and settings, and ensuring that they capture the decisive moment with the thought and consideration that has always been necessary in analogue photography. This unique rangefinder camera also brings back the fascination and expectation associated with film – returning photography to its origins during the capturing process, whilst maintaining the obvious convenience and benefits of digital technology.”
 
Principally, the technical features of the Leica M-D are based on those of the Leica M (Typ 262). As with all other digital Leica M cameras, the Leica M-D (Typ 262) features a high resolution CMOS full-frame sensor, which has been designed exclusively for rangefinder photography, and supports neither video recording nor Live View. Its 24 megapixel resolution delivers exceptional image quality and extreme sensitivity, making it perfect for available light situations. At the same time, the camera’s Maestro processor guarantees fast processing of image data. Exposures are captured exclusively as RAW data in DNG format, enabling photographers to apply the required adjustments in post-processing software.
 
Leica’s focus on ‘Das Wesentliche’ (the essentials of photography) is immediately recognisable in the design of this camera. The Leica M-D expresses purely functional, formal clarity, and features characteristics such as a brass top plate with a ‘step’ at the end, referencing the design of the Leica M9. The Leica ‘red dot’ logo has been omitted from the front of the camera for ultimate discretion.
 
Furthermore, the barely audible shutter of the Leica M-D ensures the camera is inconspicuous when shooting: an invaluable advantage in scenarios where the photographer wishes to remain unobtrusive. As an aid to this, the camera features a shutter cocking system that is particularly quiet in single exposure mode, and enables a shutter release frequency of up to two frames per second. In continuous mode, the Leica M-D has the same sequential shooting speed as its sister model and shoots up to three frames per second.
 
The Leica M-D is available in a black paint finish, and includes a real leather carrying strap in full-grain cowhide.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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