RSS
 

Posts Tagged ‘Leica’

Leica and Huawei to create joint R&D center

24 Sep

Leica’s Dr. Andreas Kaufmann with Ren Zhengfei, founder of HUAWEI

Camera manufacturer Leica and telecom brand Huawei have announced they are to create a research and development center so they can jointly work on optical and software systems. The Max Berek Innovation Lab will be established at Leica’s headquarters in Wetzlar, Germany, and will build on the relationship the two companies formed while producing the Huawei P9 and P9 Plus smartphones. There was some doubt about the level of Leica’s involvement in the P9 project, but Huawei clarified the extent of the German brand’s contribution in a statement in April.

This next step of the partnership intends to push forward lens and software technology, according to Leica, with the aim of improving the image quality it’s possible to obtain from the tiny cameras that phones and other mobile devices use. The pair also state that they will work together on solutions for virtual reality, augmented reality and computer-based imaging, and that they will involve universities and other research establishments in their projects.

The new research lab is named after optical engineer Max Berek, the man who developed the first lens for the Leica 35mm camera system. He joined Leitz the year after Oskar Barnack came to the company from Zeiss, and designed the 50mm F3.5 lens that was coupled with the Leica 1. The lens was named Elmax – E rnst L eitz Max and the 50mm focal length became the standard for the 135 format. The Elmax developed into the Elmar, a lens that Leica still uses today.

For more information see the Leica and Huawei websites.

Press release

Leica Camera and HUAWEI Establish New R&D Centre

‘Max Berek Innovation Lab’ will conduct R&D in the fields of new optical systems, computational imaging, virtual reality and augmented reality

HUAWEI and Leica Camera AG today announced that they have expanded their strategic collaboration with the establishment of a jointly operated research and innovation centre, the Max Berek Innovation Lab. The launch comes seven months after the public announcement of their long-term technology partnership in the field of optical engineering, and five months after the launch of the globally successful, multi-award winning HUAWEI P9 and P9 Plus smartphones.

The new lab, located at Leica’s global HQ in Wetzlar, Germany, will drive further development of optical systems and software-based technologies to improve imaging quality in a wide range of photographic and mobile device applications. Additional outcomes will include the creation of computational imaging, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) solutions. In addition to R&D resources from both companies, HUAWEI and Leica plan to collaborate with German and international universities and research institutions.

The Lab’s establishment is the result of the vision and support of Dr. Andreas Kaufmann, majority shareholder and chairman of the advisory board of Leica Camera AG, and Ren Zhengfei, founder of HUAWEI.

“With the founding of the Max Berek Innovation Lab, HUAWEI and Leica Camera AG are expanding the scope of their successful strategic relationship and are laying the foundation for close collaboration in research and development of ground-breaking technologies in the imaging segment,” emphasised Dr. Andreas Kaufmann.

“In the future, over 90 per cent of the data traffic will be images and videos,” said Ren Zhengfei, founder of HUAWEI. “The Max Berek Innovation Lab provides the capacity to establish an even closer partnership with Leica, leading to continuous improvements in image and video quality. As a result, we will deliver the most advanced innovations in the smartphone camera market and bring greater value to consumers.”

“HUAWEI and Leica share not only enormous innovation power and years of research experience, but also their dedication to providing the highest quality standards. The Max Berek Innovation Lab offers us a historic opportunity to unite the resources and extensive expertise of both companies to pioneer game-changing technologies,” confirmed Markus Limberger, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Leica Camera AG and director of the Max Berek Innovation Lab.

The R&D centre is named in memory of Max Berek (1886 – 1949), the German pioneer of microscopy and creator of the first Leica lenses. Berek was also responsible for the optical design of more than 20 lenses for the legendary 35mm camera, invented and built by Oskar Barnack. Thanks to the exceptional imaging performance and perfect harmonisation of the lenses, coupled with Barnack’s ingenious construction, Leica achieved worldwide success in 35mm photography.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Leica and Huawei to create joint R&D center

Posted in Uncategorized

 

Leica Sofort instant camera officially announced ahead of Photokina debut

16 Sep

Following speculation that such an announcement was imminent, Leica has taken the wraps off its new Sofort instant camera, something photographers can use to ‘create small, haptic works of art and lasting memories,’ according to the company. The Leica Sofort features a fixed 60mm (34mm equivalent) lens with an F12.7 aperture, an integrated flash, eight operation modes, 1/8 to 1/400s mechanical shutter and a rear optical 0.37x viewfinder. In other words, it’s more than likely to be a re-badged Fujifilm Instax Mini 90.

The Sofort, which is set to make its first public debut at Photokina, will be available in mint, white, and orange colors. Users have eight operation modes to choose from: Automatic, Selfie, People & Party, Action & Sport, Bulb, Macro, Self-Timer, and Double Exposure. The integrated electronic flash includes the following four modes: Auto, Forced On, Forced Off, and Forced On w/Red-Eye Reduction.

The Sofort will launch this upcoming November alongside three different instant film pack options: a color film pack with 10 exposures, a color film double pack with 20 exposures, and a monochrome film pack with 10 exposures. The camera will also accept Fujifilm’s Instax mini film.

Several accessories will also be offered, including a range of carrying straps in black & white, mint, and orange colors; soft carrying cases in brown or black; the Sofort Photo Presenter for presenting photographs; Sofort Postcards 3-packs with support for attaching pictures; the Sofort Photo Album; and, finally, the Sofort Storage Boxes, which will be offered in sets of three with the following color combinations: white & black, orange & black, and mint & black.

Pricing information hasn’t yet been revealed.

Source: Leica

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Leica Sofort instant camera officially announced ahead of Photokina debut

Posted in Uncategorized

 

Leica S firmware update improves top LCD panel info, adds Adobe-compatible image rating

14 Sep

Leica has released new firmware for its S and S-E medium format cameras that improves the quality of information displayed on the top plate and in the viewfinder. Firmware versions 4.0.0.0 for the S (Typ 007) and 2.5.0 for the S-E (Typ 006) also allows users to mark images with a rating that can be displayed in Adobe’s Lightroom and Bridge applications. With the firmware loaded the cameras will also remember the degree of magnification last used in review mode and automatically default to that next time the magnify button is pressed.

The information panels now provide more icons to indicate what modes the camera is using, and critically offer a measure of how much time capacity is left on the memory card when shooting video and how many more shots are left in the buffer for high-drive shooting in stills mode.

The new firmware is available for download now for customers who like to update for themselves, while others can take their camera to their nearest Leica store or service center.

The firmware can be downloaded from the support section of the Leica website.

Press release

Firmware updates for Leica S cameras now available

New firmware updates are available today for the Leica S-System. Registered owners can log in to the Leica Owners’ Area and download the new firmware version 4.0.0.0 for the Leica S (Typ 007) and 2.5.0 for the Leica S/S-E (Typ 006) medium format cameras, or take their camera to a Leica Store or Leica Customer Care in the UK for a complimentary update service.

Leica works in close collaboration with users on the continuous development and optimisation of its products. As a result, a number of improvements in this latest firmware update are based on the direct recommendations and suggestions of professional photographers.

The new features of Firmware Update 4.0.0.0 include a revised layout for the top plate display panel, which now provides even more information for the user. The new ‘Rating Function’ is supported by Adobe Photoshop Lightroom CC, Photoshop CC and Bridge CC software, and improves the workflow of selecting images – giving users much faster access to the images they have tagged.

With this firmware update, the most recently used zoom setting in review mode is now saved, enabling faster assessment of image sharpness/focus when reviewing a specific part of a picture. Distances displayed on the top panel can also be shown in feet, and it is now possible to see the remaining recording time when shooting video. Also new in this update is the ‘PC’ symbol, which indicates when the camera is connected to a computer. In addition to the above, the first resistance point of the shutter release now displays the number of exposures remaining for sequential shooting (maximum buffer memory) in the viewfinder, and the new ‘mirror-up’ icon appears on the camera monitor screen.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Leica S firmware update improves top LCD panel info, adds Adobe-compatible image rating

Posted in Uncategorized

 

Leica adds 60mm F2.8 macro to TL lens lineup

02 Sep

Leica has announced a 60mm F2.8 macro lens for its TL-mount cameras, which is just the T (Typ 701) at this point.

The company was very short on details about the APO-Macro-Elmarit-TL 60mm F2.8 ASPH, aside from saying that it will have a 1:1 reproduction ratio and will arrive this Fall in black or silver. When mounted on the APS-C ‘T’, the lens will be equivalent to 90mm.

This will be the sixth lens for the TL mount.

Press release:

Leica Announces Newest Addition to the T Lens Portfolio: the Leica APO-Macro-Elmarit-TL 60mm

All future lenses for the Leica T camera system will be marketed under a new name: “TL”

September 1, 2016 – Beginning today, a new prime lens is available for the Leica T camera system – the Leica APO-Macro-Elmarit-TL 60 mm f/2.8 ASPH. Considered to be the reference lens in the APS-C segment, this lens delivers macro exposures with a reproduction ratio of 1:1 and impresses with best imaging performance.

Like the Leica Summilux-TL 35 mm f/1.4 ASPH., the Leica APO-Macro-Elmarit-TL 60 mm f/2.8 ASPH. is available in both black and silver.

With this new addition, the lens portfolio of the Leica T camera system now offers a total of six lenses – including three prime lenses and three zoom lenses – that together offer a range of focal lengths for every photographic situation. The two fast prime lenses, the Leica Summicron-TL 23 mm f/2 ASPH. and the Summilux-TL 35 mm f/1.4 ASPH, are classic focal lengths for reportage photography. The APO-Macro-Elmarit-TL 60 mm f/2.8 ASPH. complements them ideally as a lens for finely detailed close-up photography. Finally, the three compact zoom lenses, the Leica Super-Vario-Elmar-TL 11–23 mm f/3.5–4.5 ASPH., Vario-Elmar-TL 18–56 mm f/3.5–5.6 ASPH., and APO-Vario-Elmar-TL 55–135 mm f/3.5–4.5 ASPH., cover an entire range of focal lengths equivalent to 17 to 200 mm in 35 mm format and deliver outstanding images with rich contrast from corner to corner of the frame.

As the Leica T and the new Leica SL share the same L bayonet mount, the name ‘TL’ will be implemented for all new Leica T lenses moving forward. Thanks to the flexibility offered by the TL-Lenses for a wide range of applications on cameras with the L-Bayonet, Leica once again showcases the company’s fundamental principle of system-compatibility and sustainability and offers users access to an even wider portfolio of Leica products

All Leica TL-Lenses impress with outstanding imaging performance at lengths that range from infinity to their closest focusing distance and deliver images with the unique Leica look and bokeh. Designed by the optical engineering specialists in Wetzlar, the lenses all offer the exceptional imaging performance for which Leica lenses are renowned. The combination of optical and technical expertise and the use of only the finest materials guarantee consistent quality and reliability in every situation.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Leica adds 60mm F2.8 macro to TL lens lineup

Posted in Uncategorized

 

Kipon introduces reducer to fit Nikon F and Leica R lenses to Micro Four Thirds bodies

13 Aug

Japanese lens and accessory maker Kipon has introduced a pair of focal length reducers that allow users to mount Nikon F and Leica R lenses to Micro Four Thirds cameras to give a 1.4x crop factor. The company says that the Kipon Baveyes NIK-m4/3 0.7x and Baveyes L/R-m4/3 0.7x reducers make a 50mm lens designed for full-frame systems act as a 70mm equivalent once the focal length doubling effect of the Micro Four Thirds system is taken into account. Kipon also claims that the reducer makes the mounted lenses a stop faster too.

Without the lenses in the reducer a 50mm Nikkor lens mounted on a Micro Four Thirds camera would behave as a 100mm due to the smaller size of the system’s sensors, so the wide-angle elements in the adapters reduce the apparent crop factor applied to the adapted lens. The company gives an example of a 35mm lens mounted via the adapter producing the angle of view one would expect from a 49mm lens on a full-frame body.

The price of the adapters has only been released in Japanese Yen, and is quoted as ¥23,000 plus tax, which is approximately $ 230/£180.

For more information see the Kipon website and a translated version the press release.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Kipon introduces reducer to fit Nikon F and Leica R lenses to Micro Four Thirds bodies

Posted in Uncategorized

 

Leica improves Q functionality with firmware 2.0

27 Jul

Leica’s Q compact camera has been given a functionality boost with a firmware update that adds the option to shoot Raw-only, and extends the longest shutter speed from 30 seconds to 120 seconds. Firmware version 2.0 makes a number of changes to the way the full-frame 24MP camera operates adding some new features and fixing issues that made handling difficult in some cases.

The AF system functionality has been changed to allow different sized AF selection areas, while at the same time correcting an ability to focus on subjects outside the picture area when shooting in the cropped modes. Face detection also now reverts to multi-area AF when no face is detected in the scene. A useful new feature automatically switches the camera to use the rear LCD to display image review and menu navigation when the EVF is being used – for viewfinder photographers who prefer to see their images and menus in a larger format. Additionally, now user profiles can be accessed via the rather under-utilized Function button.

Leica Q owners can download the new firmware via the Leica website.

Press release: 

Leica releases firmware update 2.0 for Leica Q

Leica has released firmware update 2.0 for the Leica Q, bringing numerous new features to the highly successful full-frame compact camera. The update is available to download now from the Leica web site.

Leica works continuously in close collaboration with Leica photographers on the development and optimisation of its products, and, as a result, a number of enhancements in this latest firmware update have been based on specific customer recommendations and suggestions.

The first of several improvements, DNG format can now be selected as a separate option in addition to JPG and DNG + JPG, allowing photographers to save space on their memory card.

An optimised EVF mode makes navigation even easier than before. With this firmware update, a press of the Menu or Play button now allows the user to switch straight to menu control / picture assessment on the LCD screen.

The shutter speed range has been expanded and now includes speeds of up to 120 seconds.

‘User Profile’ is now directly selectable via the FN button, facilitating quick and easy access to all functions stored in a particular user profile.

The spirit level display has also been improved, remaining visible when the shutter release is pressed.

Three optimised autofocus functions bring further creative freedom:

  • The 1-field autofocus metering area can now be selected in three different sizes: small, medium and large.
  • AF motion in digital zoom mode for focal lengths of 35mm and 50mm has been limited to avoid focusing on objects outside the zoom range.
  • Face Detection has also been optimised: if no face is detected, AF now automatically reverts to multi-field autofocus mode.

Furthermore, a fourth information screen has been added, with the option to display the lower bar separately. The touch-controlled magnification function in playback mode has been revised, whereby double-tapping calls up the maximum enlargement or reduces the image back to original size.

Other new additions include a countdown display for long exposures / noise reduction, three modes available for the thumbwheel (Off/Auto/Exp. Comp.) and deactivation (Mode Lock) of the video button, if required. A change to WiFi password setting now allows the characters to remain visible when entered, and flash-unit compatibility has been extended to support the Leica SF 40 and SF 64.

Leica Q owners can download the firmware update from the Leica web site, or visit their local Leica Store or Leica Customer Care in the UK, for a complimentary firmware update service.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Leica improves Q functionality with firmware 2.0

Posted in Uncategorized

 

Leica introduces silver version of the APO-SUMMICRON-M 50mm F2 ASPH

26 Jul

German camera manufacturer Leica has announced that it is to introduce a version of its premium f/2 standard lens for the M system finished in anodised silver. Until now the lens, which was first announced in 2012, has only been available in a black finish. Leica claims this manual focus 50mm is the best quality lens it produces for the M system, which perhaps goes some way to explaining its $ 7795/£5600 price tag.

The new silver version of the lens however will cost a little extra, at $ 7995/£5900.

The lens is classed in the company’s ‘fast and compact’ series, and uses eight elements in five groups including three APO elements and two that have what the company describes as a ‘high refractive index’. The lens weighs 10.58oz/300g and measures 1.85in/47mm in length and 2.09in/53mm in diameter.

The new silver APO-SUMMICRON-M 50mm f/2 ASPH will be available at the end of the month. For more information visit the Leica website.

Press release

LEICA APO-SUMMICRON-M 50mm f/2 ASPH.

Sharpest ever standard lens now available in silver anodised finish

Leica Camera has today announced that the APO-Summicron-M 50mm f/2 ASPH. is now available in a silver anodised version. Thanks to its meticulous optical design, high quality materials, and sophisticated manufacturing and finishing process, this high-performance lens is considered to be the reference lens among standard focal lengths.

With its combination of exceptional sharpness and imaging performance that captures and resolves even the finest details, the APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. is characterised by extremely high contrast rendition from corner to corner of the image – at maximum aperture and throughout the aperture range. The use of a floating element in its design ensures that this is also maintained at close shooting distances.

Eight lens elements are employed to achieve this outstanding optical performance. Three of the lenses are made from glass types with anomalous partial dispersion or apochromatic correction, and two have a high refractive index. The specially-formulated glass employed is based on original developments from the former Leitz glass laboratory, and the use of this particular glass requires extensive effort and many years of experience. Thanks to continuous advancements in optical technology, processes have since been refined and perfected to achieve the best possible image quality.

As with all other Leica lenses, the Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. was designed and developed by Leica specialists in Wetzlar and represents the perfect combination of optical and technical expertise. Exceptionally reliable with enduring value, and with the ‘Made in Germany’ quality guarantee, the lens is manufactured from the finest materials and is meticulously assembled by hand. This combination of cutting-edge technology and precise manufacturing procedures ensures consistent excellence at all times.

Pricing and availability

The Leica APO-Summicron-M 50 mm f/2 ASPH. (silver anodised) is scheduled to be available at the end of July 2016 at a suggested retail price of £5,900 including VAT.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Leica introduces silver version of the APO-SUMMICRON-M 50mm F2 ASPH

Posted in Uncategorized

 

Huawei’s Honor 8 comes with dual cam, no Leica branding

13 Jul

Huawei has today announced the latest high-end model of its sub-brand Honor. The Honor 8 is in many ways a smaller version of the phablet-device Honor V8 and also has a lot in common with Huawei’s current flagship P9. Like the P9, it comes with a 5.2-inch 1080p IPS display and a dual-camera setup. The main imaging module combines the images of two 12MP sensors with F2.2 aperture but has to make to without the P9’s Leica Summarit branding.

In terms of memory the device offers up to 4GB of RAM and 64GB of expandable storage. Android 6 and Huawei’s EMUI 4.1 are powered by the Chinese manufacturer’s in-house chipset Kirin 950 and like on the P9 there is a fingerprint sensor on the back for increased security. The 3,000 mAh battery is charged via a USB Type-C port.

The Honor will become available in China on July 19th. The base model with 3GB of RAM and 32GB of storage will cost approximately $ 298, the top-end version with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage will set you back approximately $ 335. No information on international availability has been revealed yet but it can be assumed the Honor 8 will be available to purchase in other regions soon. 

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Huawei’s Honor 8 comes with dual cam, no Leica branding

Posted in Uncategorized

 

Leica expands ‘a la carte’ program to allow customers to customize the M Monochrom

25 Jun
The Leica M Monochrom (Typ 246) shown in cement leather and silver chrome

Leica has announced that its M Monochrom (Typ 246) will now become part of the company’s ‘a la carte’ program, where photographers can choose a range of custom options to personalize their camera. The M Monochrom has only been available in a discrete black chrome finish until now, with black leather and no traditional Leica red dot in case it attracted unwanted attention. Now that the camera is in the a la carte program a polished silver chrome version will be available as well as black laquer, and the leather finish can be chosen from 10 different colours including shades of red, blue, green and brown.

The service also allows users to decide if they want the image field selector lever that previews the effects of different focal lengths (it costs more to have it removed), to choose between Gorilla and sapphire glass on the LCD, and a choice of color for the strap to match or complement the color of the body. Users can also request no engraving on the camera’s top plate, or indeed request their own lettering or signature for the top plate and/or the camera’s rear.

The customization can add over £1000 to the cost of the body on top of a charge of £840 for the service. Leica has created a simulator so that users can choose their options online, and Leica stores will also offer the service. For more information visit the Leica Camera website.

Press release:

Made to measure: Leica M Monochrom à la carte

Leica à la carte programme extended with the addition of the Leica M Monochrom, with silver chrome finish available for the first time

Leica Camera has today announced that its successful Leica M à la carte camera personalisation programme has been expanded with the addition of the Leica M Monochrom, bringing the entire portfolio of bespoke options to this special digital rangefinder model.

The Leica M Monochrom, which incorporates a unique black and white sensor, can now be ordered with a multitude of tailored features, including a choice of classic black chrome or black paint body. Furthermore, for the first time and exclusively via the à la carte programme, customers can also select the camera body in a stunning silver chrome finish.

Among the custom options are a top plate with – or without – the iconic Leica ‘red dot’ logo on the front, and an extensive collection of leather trims, from classic black to subtle shades to rich, eye-catching colours such as khaki, red or deep blue.

For the ultimate personal touch, the Leica M Monochrom à la carte can be delivered with fine engraving on the top surface and rear of the top plate. Meticulously hand-crafted in Germany, each camera can be transformed into a personal ‘object of desire’ – a unique and unmistakeable example of precision and quality – with the application of its owner’s signature, custom text or special markings.

An array of high quality camera carrying straps completes the Leica M à la carte portfolio, in colours and materials to match those chosen for the camera’s leather trim.

Allowing the simulation of all possible variations, and selection of the final combination chosen by the customer, an online configurator is available now on the Leica website at uk.leica-camera.com. Orders for the personalised Leica M Monochrom à la carte camera can be placed via official Leica Stores and Boutiques, where customers are able to view a variety of samples, illustrating the full range of options offered by the programme.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Leica expands ‘a la carte’ program to allow customers to customize the M Monochrom

Posted in Uncategorized

 

Panasonic Lumix G Leica 12mm F1.4 real-world sample gallery

21 Jun

Introduced last week, Panasonic’s 12mm F1.4 brings a weather-resistant, fast 24mm equivalent prime to the Micro Four Thirds system. The Leica name on the lens is reflected in its sturdy metal build, its aperture control ring and its $ 1300 price tag. We intend to do much more shooting with the 12mm F1.4, including some architectural work, but for now here are some initial samples.

Panasonic Lumix G Leica DG Summilux 12mm F1.4 ASPH lens gallery

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
Comments Off on Panasonic Lumix G Leica 12mm F1.4 real-world sample gallery

Posted in Uncategorized

 
« Older Entries
Newer Entries »