Monday, June 29, 2026

WETZLAR EISENMARKT

By Heinz Richter


Most Leica enthusiasts are familiar with the iconic photograph Oskar Barnack took of the Eisenmarkt in Wetzlar with the Ur-Leica in 1914.  Anyone who has ever been in Wetzlar will agree that the city has maintained its old character quite well and that nothing much has changed.  Yet if we compare pictures taken over the years, we will notice subtle changes that have indeed been made.

Here are three photographs of the same scene, taken from the same camera position. 
The original by Oskar Barnack from 1914, one taken by W. Pringle Rodman in 1980 and one taken by me in 2007.  My photograph was original taken in color, but I converted it to black and white to maintain the character of the other two pictures.


Eisenmarkt 1913 by Oskar Barnack

Eisenmarkt 1980 by W. Pringle Rodman

Eisenmarkt 2007 by Heinz Richter



For other articles on this blog please click on Blog Archive in the column to the right

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Thursday, June 25, 2026

NEW LEICA SL3-P



Today, Leica has announced the new SL3-P, the latest addition to the SL-System. Pairing a newly developed 44MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor with Leica’s fastest autofocus system yet, the SL3-P offers continuous shooting up to 40 frames per second with full AF tracking, an exceptionally fast sensor readout with minimal rolling shutter, and significantly expanded video capabilities, including 8K Open Gate and 4K/120p recording. The result is a camera designed to deliver an exceptional balance of image quality, speed, and versatility.


Prior to today’s release, photographers could choose the SL3 with its 60MP sensor and class-leading image quality, or the 24MP SL3-S for faster shooting, improved autofocus tracking, and expanded video capabilities. Each camera excels in its intended role, but Leica consistently heard requests for either more speed from the SL3 or more resolution from the SL3-S. With the SL3-P, they’ve delivered both.


The SL3-P builds on the speed and autofocus performance of the SL3-S while introducing a new 44MP sensor that strikes a balance between maximum resolution and rapid performance. Its hybrid autofocus system combines the speed of phase detection, the precision of contrast detection, and the intelligence of machine learning-based subject recognition, increasing the number of on-sensor autofocus points to 819. At the same time, the new sensor delivers a readout speed more than 150% faster than the SL3-S, dramatically reducing rolling shutter while enabling autofocus tracking at the camera’s full 40 fps burst rate. The result is a camera that feels remarkably fast and confident across an incredibly wide range of shooting situations.


A New 44MP Full-Frame Sensor

At the heart of the SL3-P is a newly developed 44MP backside-illuminated CMOS sensor. The resolution sits directly between the 60MP SL3 and the 24MP SL3-S, striking a balance between image detail, workflow efficiency, and speed. For SL3-S users, the jump to 44MP represents an 83% increase in resolution, offering substantially more cropping flexibility and detail. For SL3 photographers, stepping down from 60MP to 44MP is a much smaller compromise, allowing them to take advantage of the camera’s dramatically faster performance while retaining much of the image quality they’ve come to expect.


The sensor delivers up to 14 stops of dynamic range and offers an ISO range from 50 to 200,000. For applications requiring the highest possible resolution, Leica’s in-camera Multishot mode can capture images up to 176MP, even handheld. The result is a camera capable of tackling everything from commercial and landscape photography to sports, wildlife, and event coverage.

Equally important for video or high-speed electronic shutter use, the new sensor's much faster readout speed means minimal rolling shutter during camera movements or for rapidly moving subjects. This also results in quicker feedback for the autofocus system.


Leica's Most Advanced Autofocus System Yet

One of the most significant advancements in the SL3-P is its new hybrid autofocus system. Leica combines phase detection autofocus, contrast detection autofocus, and depth mapping technology with advanced machine-learning subject recognition to create the most sophisticated autofocus platform offered to date.

The system features 819 autofocus points and can recognize and track people, animals, cars, and vehicle components. Continuous shooting is available at up to 40 frames per second with autofocus support, making the SL3-P the fastest camera in Leica’s current lineup. For photographers who have long wanted an SL camera capable of confidently handling fast-moving subjects, the SL3-P represents a significant step forward.


Refined P-Series design

Like previous P-series cameras, the SL3-P adopts a more understated appearance. The iconic red Leica dot has been omitted in favor of a cleaner, more discreet design. Black buttons and controls further emphasize the minimalist aesthetic, although the bold white engraved LEICA name still graces the front of the viewfinder, rather than the black on black of the SL3-S. We're sure some will opt to take matters into their own hands but for us, the look is clean, understated and all business.

The camera retains the premium made-in-Germany construction we've come to expect from the SL3 family, with full-metal body, IP54-rated weather sealing, and tank-like build. The SL3-P remains unmistakably Leica in both design and operation.


Expanded Professional Video Capabilities

Building on the strong video foundation of the SL3-S, the SL3-P significantly expands Leica’s hybrid video platform with additional recording formats, higher resolutions, faster frame rates, and greater workflow flexibility.

The camera can record using the full sensor in 8K Open Gate (3:2), allowing filmmakers to capture maximum resolution for reframing into multiple aspect ratios during post production. For those wanting open gate but without the full size of 8K, the camera also offers 7.2K OG and 6.4K OG. Traditonal 17:9 and 16:9 recording options of C8K, 8K, C6K, C4K, UHD, and Full HD recording options are aksi available, giving creators the flexibility to balance image quality, frame rate, storage requirements, and delivery format. For slow-motion capture, the SL3-P supports frame rates up to 120 fps in 4K and 60 fps in 6K, making it well suited for sports, action, and cinematic applications.


Leica has also expanded codec support considerably. The camera offers internal recording in H.264, H.265 (HEVC), and Apple ProRes, with recording available in both 8-bit and 10-bit and Log options of L-Log and HLG. For productions requiring the greatest latitude in post production, the SL3-P can output 8K Open Gate RAW over HDMI 2.1 to external recorders. Leica is also rolling out new Pure and Cine LUTs for both in-camera viewing and for post production workflows. On screen waveform and false color, hardware timecode support, and Frame.io camera-to-cloud integration add to the video feature-set.

Together, these features position the SL3-P as Leica’s most capable video-focused camera to date while maintaining its identity as a photography-first tool.


Shooting the Leica SL3-P In Germany

We were fortunate to be invited to Germany to try out the SL3-P first hand. Leica clearly wanted photographers to experience the SL3-P in situations where speed, autofocus performance, and image quality could all be put to the test. Aftter a photo shoot in studio at Leitzpark, some BMX bikers doing jumps in front of Leica HQ and Koblenz for travel and street photography, Leica brought us to the famed Nürburgring during qualifying for the legendary 24-hour race, where we photographed everything from race cars tearing up the track to mechanics working in the pits and fans checking out cars in the paddock. That variety turned out to be the perfect proving ground for the camera.

Apart from the incredible autofocus performance, which nailed shot after shot in every condition, I was blown away by color and tonality of the new sensor. Rich, true-to-life colors pop off the screen with plenty of headroom for editing. And getting to try out the upcoming 100mm APO-Macro and 50mm Summilux lenses was a real treat.







Where the SL3-P Fits in The Leica SL Lineup

The introduction of the SL3-P creates an interesting three-camera lineup within the SL family. The SL3 remains the highest-resolution option with its 60MP sensor, making it especially attractive for landscape, architecture, and studio photographers. The SL3-S focuses on speed and video performance with its 24MP sensor and excellent low-light capabilities.

The new SL3-P effectively bridges the gap between those two cameras. It offers substantially more resolution than the SL3-S while delivering significantly faster shooting speeds and autofocus performance than the SL3. For photographers and content creators seeking a true hybrid camera capable of excelling across a broad range of applications, the SL3-P may prove to be the most balanced option in the lineup.

Pricing and Availability

The Leica SL3-P is available immediately, priced at $6,690. As with most Leica launches, supply will be limited at launch. To purchase the Leica SL3-P, you can visit Leica Store Miami by clicking the button below, calling 305-921-4433, or sending an email to info@leicastoremiami.com. If you’re interested in trading in other Leica equipment toward this camera, please note it during the pre-order process.

For complete information go to Leica Store Miami

Press Release

The New Leica SL3-P

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.

Teaneck, June 25, 2026 – 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.


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 24p, HDMI RAW 8K Open Gate, and 8K at 30p. 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 color 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 optimized 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 customizable 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 color 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 software improvements. 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 and Bluetooth 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.




For other articles on this blog please click on Blog Archive in the column to the right

To comment or to read comments please scroll past the ads below.

All ads present items of interest to Leica owners.

_______________________________________________________________________

EDDYCAM - the first and only ergonomic elk-skin camera strap     
 www.eddycam.com        

      



Buy vintage Leica cameras from 
America's premier Leica specialist 
www.tamarkin.com

 http://www.tamarkin.com/leicagallery/upcoming-show


Click on image to enlarge
Please make payment via PayPal to GMP Photography

Click on image to enlarge
Please make payment via PayPal to GMP Photography

Click on image to enlarge
Please make payment via PayPal to GMP Photography


 
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