Leica S3
64 Megapixel
The Leica S-System is a synthesis of impressive imaging quality, the unique visual signature of medium format photography and the versatility of a 35mm camera. With these features, it unites the best of both worlds, defining a unique class of its own.
This unique class can be attributed to the perfect harmonisation of all of its individual components: with lenses created of unrivalled Leica quality for all applications and genres of photography and a large sensor developed exclusively for Leica in the unique Leica ProFormat. The S-System leads the way in terms of resolution and dynamic range and delivers a level of performance that is still apparent even in available light situations. Its precision-engineered, ultra-high-speed shutter mechanisms, a special image processor and predictive autofocus enable fast sequential shooting, thus combining the unique image quality of the larger format with the fast responses of a 35mm camera.
Discover an integrated system of precisely matched components and experience photographs with the legendary Leica look. Discover the Leica S-System – the new state-of-the-art in medium format.
This unique class can be attributed to the perfect harmonisation of all of its individual components: with lenses created of unrivalled Leica quality for all applications and genres of photography and a large sensor developed exclusively for Leica in the unique Leica ProFormat. The S-System leads the way in terms of resolution and dynamic range and delivers a level of performance that is still apparent even in available light situations. Its precision-engineered, ultra-high-speed shutter mechanisms, a special image processor and predictive autofocus enable fast sequential shooting, thus combining the unique image quality of the larger format with the fast responses of a 35mm camera.
Discover an integrated system of precisely matched components and experience photographs with the legendary Leica look. Discover the Leica S-System – the new state-of-the-art in medium format.
Sensor Pictures with depth
The S3 features the next generation of the Leica ProFormat sensor, now with 64-megapixel resolution. With dimensions of 30 x 45mm, it corresponds to the aspect ratio of the classic 35mm format, while offering a light sensitive surface area that is larger by 56%. This change not only had a positive influence on image quality, but was also a significant factor in achieving the characteristic medium format look of pictures shot with the Leica S3.
How light is handled by the system plays a decisive role in the creation of the visual signature and imaging quality: a larger sensor requires lenses with a wider image circle. They deliver not only the considerably narrower depth of field typical for medium format lenses but, in addition, due to their constructional characteristics, do not need extremely large apertures to enable a large amount of light to fall on the sensor. At the same time, thanks to the larger sensor size, every single pixel is larger, captures more light and is thus able to process this extra light in an optimum manner.
The Leica ProFormat therefore represents an ideal balance between image quality and creative capabilities for a broad spectrum of photographic applications and uses the ideal synthesis of 35mm and traditional medium format.
The sensor of Leica S3 not only delivers impressive resolution, it also increases dynamic range to discernibly more than 15 stops and thus displays a previously unparalleled tonal range between shadows and highlights. Thanks to the high sensor sensitivity of up to ISO 50000, the Leica S3 need not be reliant on studio lighting. Whether on location, shooting a reportage project, or at weddings – whenever available light is to be used – the Leica S3 reveals its strengths and highlights the advantages of the larger format. In addition, the CMOS sensor enables video recording and Live View as added extra alternatives to the optical viewfinder image.