The Leica M is a digital full-frame 35 mm rangefinder camera. It was introduced by Leica Camera AG in September 2012, and is the successor to the Leica M9 range of cameras. The M uses a 24-megapixel image sensor. The camera is the first M model to feature movie recording, and the first to have Live Viewâ€"which allows the scene, as seen through the lens, to be composed. The M is compatible with almost all M mount lenses and most R mount lenses (via an adapter). All Leica M cameras are handmade in Portugal and Germany.
Features
The M uses a CMOS 24-megapixel image sensor designed exclusively for Leica by the Belgian company CMOSIS. The sensor contains 6,000 by 4,000 pixels on a 6 x 6 µm² grid, and is made by STMicroelectronics in Grenoble.
The M supports most M-mount lenses, and with an optional R-Adapter, the camera can use almost all Leica R-mount lenses. Live View allows owners of R-lenses to use an optional electronic viewfinder.
The camera uses a MAESTRO image/video processor which is based on the Fujitsu Milbeaut. It has specifically-designed rubber seals (to protect against dust and water spray).
Release
The Leica M camera was introduced at the Photokina event in Cologne, Germany on 17 September 2012. The launch featured a "concert by recording artistâ€"and Leica shooterâ€"Seal".
References
External links
- Official website
- La Vida Leica - Leica M System Information, reviews and articles