Leica SL2-S: Leica presents its most versatile camera for photography and videography to date

With the new SL2-S, Leica introduces a perfect solution for anyone seeking outstanding imaging performance – not only in their photographs, but also in their video productions. With its new, 24-megapixel BSI-CMOS sensor and two separate recording modes for photos and videos, the new Leica SL2-S offers the best of both media in one all-metal, state-of-the-art body built for long-term durability.

The Leica SL2-S expands the multi-faceted SL-System with a versatile full-frame camera that serves as an alternative to the Leica SL2. The SL2-S is the perfect choice for customers who favour fast operation over the exceptionally high resolution of the Leica SL2. With its especially high operating speed (which enables continuous shooting rates of up to 25 frames per second at full resolution), and its pro-level video capabilities (facilitating 10-bit 4K video recordings with no video length limits), the SL2-S sets new benchmarks within the SL-System.

High-quality sensor

The core element of the Leica SL2-S is the newly developed BSI-CMOS image sensor with a resolution of 24 megapixels. The data collected by the sensor is processed by the camera’s Maestro-III processor in conjunction with the generous, 4-gigabyte buffer memory. This, for the first time, enables virtually open-ended burst recordings at up to 9 frames per second, whereby the burst length in JPEG format is only limited by the storage capacity of the installed memory cards.

Image stabilisation

The Leica SL2-S features a suspended image sensor, which provides a highly efficient, multi-axis image stabilisation in connection with any Leica lens. This sensor-shift technology also facilitates multishot capturing, whereby eight shots are calculated into one image with a fourfold resolution of 96 megapixels. The high sensitivity of up to ISO 100,000 – combined with the fast autofocus and in body image stabilisation – enables photographers to capture excellent images in almost all types of light.

Optimal integration

The Leica SL2-S is the first SL model to enable direct tethered shooting with Capture One 21. This gives users the option of full remote control of the camera via the computer. In addition, the SL2-S can also be tethered to Adobe Photoshop Lightroom Classic. A time-limited Adobe Creative Cloud Photography plan is included when purchasing the camera.

With the exception of the image sensor, the Leica SL2-S has the same core attributes as the SL2 (such as the unique operating concept and high-resolution Leica EyeRes® viewfinder), and shares the SL2’s entire accessory range. Of course, the all-metal camera also features a dust and water protection rating of IP54, and is produced in Germany to the highest quality standards.

Perfect for creative videographers

The Leica SL2-S provides not just photographers, but also videographers and cinematographers with outstanding possibilities – which are continuously optimised via the firmware updates released for SL-System cameras on an ongoing basis. The Leica SL2-S captures 10-bit 4:2:2 videos with Leica’s L-LOG gamma, at frame rates of up to 60 fps. Thanks to the integrated viewing LUTs, the user is able to have full control throughout the recording. Another pro-level trait is the camera’s unlimited recording time for videos, which means that the video length is only limited by the respective (internal or external) memory.

In future, the camera will also support the highly efficient HEVC video compression standard for 10-bit recordings up to 4K/60p. This will allow videos to be split into one-minute segments, in order to minimise the risk of data loss. Other enhancing features, such as the integrated waveform monitor and the automatic Follow Focus, will be added with the next firmware update – further enhancing the camera’s suitability for professional applications.

Limitless compatibility

Being equipped with the L-Mount makes the Leica SL2-S fully compatible with not just the SL-System’s extensive lens portfolio, but also with TL lenses and, via adapter, lenses from the Leica M, R and S-System. The L-Mount Alliance provides SL2-S owners with access to over 40 autofocus lenses. In addition, Leitz Cine lenses – which are highly coveted among film-makers across the board – can also be adapted to the Leica SL2-S.

The Leica SL2-S is on sale from today at authorised Leica dealers.