Leica S2

[Martin_Doudoroff]

I will probably never get to hold, let along own, one of these new S2 cameras, but I marvel at Leica's audacity. I think it's sensible and cause for optimism that Leica is partnering with PhaseOne on the project. I think it's great they're using DNG as the native raw format. I particularly like the clean design of the camera body, which clearly places the emphasis on fundamentals like ergonomics, shutter speed and aperture. That eyepiece is enormous, as it should be; I don't doubt the view through it will be spectacular and bright.

[David_Buzzard]

How sick is that?

[Jerry Skrocki]

I wonder if it will carry the price tag (about $39,000) of the current medium format digital systems.

[PhilipKach]

I was totally shocked by this announcement. I was expecting a new R series digital camera.

It is a gutsy move by Leica.

Leica is a company with a proud past.

They makes great binoculars and scopes. I own a fantastic 8x X 60mm that was my grandfather's.

They make the BEST film based street camera system. PERIOD. The quality of the lenses and cameras are spectacular. They are quiet and blend into the background. If it wasn't for the switch to digital, I would be using the M-series for all my 35mm work except when I need telephotos.

That said, I expect the S2 to bomb.

They have NO history with professional photographers who use an SLR. I don't believe very many high end pros will take a chance with Leica when they have the Hasselblad and Mamiya systems for MF and the Canon and Nikon systems for FF. Zeiss now makes great lenses for Canon and Nikon when you need that extra edge.

Who knows, as I may be wrong.

Still expect a failure.

Philip

[PhilipKach]

I just noticed something else.

The S2 has the classic Leica 2:3 aspect ratio.

When using a street camera and landscape camera, I like the 2:3 aspect ratio. It works well.

However, for portrait work and wedding groups I, like most pros, prefer the 4:5 aspect ratio.

Two things I dislike about my switch to digital cameras for my pro work are the smaller viewfinder and the aspect ratio with 35mm based DSLR's.

The S2 should have a bright large viewfinder. However, it has in my opinion the wrong aspect ratio.

If I wanted a MF digital camera for pro use, I want the 4:5 ratio.

Philip

PS
I am not a high end fashion photographer so I am not sure of their needs. However, I have never heard them complain that they need a 2:3 ratio MF camera system.

S2, is it a solution in search of a problem?

[Doug_Kerr]

Hi, Jerry,

Originally Posted by Jerry Skrocki

I wonder if it will carry the price tag (about $39,000) of the current medium format digital systems.

Asher Kelman said this morning he had heard the price will be about EUR20,000 (about USD29,000). I don't know his source or the confidence level.

It is indeed a stunning move on Leica's part.

[David_Buzzard]

I think it will be a big hit with fashion, landscape, and family portrait guys. It reminds me a lot of the old Pentax 67 cameras of yore (right down to the leaf shutters in the lenses). If you need the extra resolution, but don't want a huge monster of a camera, this is going to be the unit for you.

I can tell you I won't rushing out to buy one. 12MP and a 35mm sized chip is plenty for me.

David Buzzard

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