Leica is expanding its SL-System for performance-oriented photography and videography with the release of its most advanced full-frame camera to date, accompanied by two new SL-Lenses, offering greater creative freedom

When it launched the SL-System in 2015, Leica set a new standard for creative photography and video production. Based on the L-Mount, the system combines technological innovation with the precision and quality that the company is known for. Developed in close consultation with professional users, the SL-System continues to be refined, drawing on practical experience. The result is an expanding full-frame system that meets the highest photographic and cinematic standards, while also offering non-professional users easy access to high-quality image and video production thanks to its convenient, intuitive operation. Looking to the future, Leica is now significantly strengthening the SL-System by presenting the Leica SL3-P, the brand’s most comprehensive full-frame camera to date, alongside the innovative Summilux-SL 50 f/1.4 ASPH. and APO-Macro-Elmarit-SL 100 f/2.8 lenses.

The New Leica SL3-P

At the heart of the SL3-P’s features are a new sensor and a new hybrid autofocus system. The 44-megapixel BSI full-frame sensor provides an ideal balance of high resolution and exceptional image quality. With a dynamic range of up to 14 aperture stops, even the finest tonal gradations are captured. The Multishot mode delivers extremely high-resolution, detailed images with up to 176 megapixels. The ISO range of 50 to 200,000 ensures high image quality and flexibility, even in challenging lighting conditions. The new hybrid autofocus system combines three focus technologies – phase detection (PDAF), depth mapping (object detection AF) and contrast detection (contrast detection AF) – to achieve quick, precise and reliable focusing. With continuous shooting at up to 40 frames per second with full autofocus support, improved tracking performance with 819 AF points, and smart subject recognition, the SL3-P can handle even the most dynamic of subjects with ease.

In terms of video, the latest addition to the SL3 family enables recording at resolutions of up to 8K. This includes 8.1K Open Gate in 3:2 format at up to 30p, HDMI RAW 8K Open Gate and 8K at 30p using the full size of the sensor. For smooth motion rendering, the camera offers 5.9K recording at up to 60 frames per second, as well as detailed slow-motion footage in 4K at 120p. Integration of the Apple ProRes codec at up to 5.8K guarantees outstanding image quality. Together with the two new in-camera LUTs – Leica Pure and Leica Cine – for the L-Log colour space, this provides maximum freedom in professional post-production. This not only makes the SL3-P suitable for demanding film productions but also for high-quality hybrid workflows. It allows footage to be optimised for various channels and formats, and framing to be determined retrospectively without any loss of quality.

Manufactured in Germany, the SL3-P features a deliberately minimalist design with black control elements and without the red Leica logo. Its solid, full-metal body ensures maximum stability and reliability, while IP54 certification provides effective protection against dust and water splashes. The SL3-P also features the L-Mount, offering maximum flexibility for photography and filming with the exceptionally wide range of compatible lenses from L-Mount Alliance partners.

The SL3-P offers a unique combination of outstanding image quality, precision, feel, reliability and speed, as well as an unrivalled Leica user experience. This is based on well-conceived ergonomics, fully customisable controls and a captivatingly clear user interface. The minimalist icon and menu design, which strictly separates photo and video modes, ensures particularly efficient navigation. A special colour code – red for photos and yellow for videos – visually distinguishes between the two modes. In addition, the user interface automatically adapts to the camera’s orientation, displaying all information clearly and legibly on the high-resolution tilting screen in both vertical and horizontal positions. The exceptional Leica user experience is maintained through ongoing, uncompromising development. Regular firmware updates based on customer feedback are conveniently made available for the SL3-P via the Leica FOTOS App. This means that the camera embodies both modernity and longevity – from the choice of materials and continuous enhancements to the software. It is a future-proof investment that offers a complete Leica experience from the very first use.

The SL3-P’s comprehensive connectivity ensures a seamless professional workflow. The Leica FOTOS App uses fast Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and USB-C connections to link the camera directly to mobile devices. This enables fast downloads of DNG, JPG and video files as well as full remote control via a smartphone or tablet.

 Leica Looks can be applied as soon as the shutter is released, and their intensity can be adjusted either in the camera or later in the Leica FOTOS App. Native tethering support for Lightroom Classic and Capture One provides a stable, direct connection between the camera and computer, facilitating immediate image review in the studio. With Camera-to-Cloud via Adobe Frame.io, photos and videos can be transferred directly from the camera to the cloud, making them available for post-production immediately. In addition, the SL3-P is equipped with pioneering Content Credentials technology, developed in line with the Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI), which enables images to be signed with tamper-proof metadata if desired, thereby protecting creative professionals’ intellectual property.