Maximum Distance, Control over Details
The Vario-Elmar-SL 100–400 f/5–6.3 extends the SL-System to the super telephoto range and lends itself to nature, wildlife and sport photography where great distances have to be overcome. This compact telephoto Vario lens offers the greatest focal range in the SL portfolio. It will take you right into the thick of the action with the flick of a wrist – all while also offering top image quality for both film and photography.
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© Nick Rains
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© Nick Rains
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© Patrick Ludolph
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© Patrick Ludolph
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© Oliver Vogler
The Strengths of the 100–400 mm SL Zoom Lens
With focal lengths ranging from 100 mm to 400 mm, the Vario-Elmar-SL is extremely versatile. Particularly when photographing and filming animals, nature, sport and action, it brings you up close to subjects in the distance – for shots with the unmistakable Leica look and outstanding image quality. The optical image stabilisation and precise autofocus capture fast movement in sharp images. With its compact design and flexible handling, this telephoto zoom lens lets you react quickly whatever the situation. And thanks to the L-Mount, it works with more than just SL-Cameras.
Design Details
The optical design encompasses 22 lenses in 16 groups. Multiple specialised glass elements effectively reduce chromatic aberration in the super telephoto range. In the field, this delivers clear details even at 400 mm. The close focus distance of 1.1 metres enables surprisingly detailed shots up close. The robust metal housing is sealed against dust and splash water, providing reliable protection for outdoor use. The ARCA-SWISS-compatible, detachable tripod plate is extremely practical and easy to use. It can be inserted directly into a suitable mounting system without the need for a quick-release plate, ensuring a solid hold when using a tripod. The lockable tripod collar allows the lens to be fixed seamlessly at any angle. You can feel when it locks every 90 degrees, which enables quick changes between portrait and landscape formats.
Cross-section of the Vario-Elmar-SL 100–400 f/5–6.3
Get even closer with the Leica Extender L 1.4x
When a focal length of 400 mm is not enough, the range can be extended by 1.4 times with the optional Leica Extender L 1.4x. That means up to 560 mm. Due to its compact size, it fits in any bag and can be combined with the Leica Vario-Elmar-SL quickly and flexibly to form a powerful unit. The camera recognises the extended focal length and aperture when the extender and lens are connected, recording this information to the metadata as usual.
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