Leica TL2 mirrorless camera officially announced


The Leica TL2 mirrorless camera is now officially announced – no surprises from what I already reported previously.

Leica TL2 coverage:

“Like the previous T and TL models, the TL2 is a primarily touchscreen-driven camera that uses an almost smartphone-like icon-based interface in the place of any menu lists. However, beyond the move to a 24MP sensor for this latest version, Leica has made small but important changes to just about every aspect of the camera.” (dpreview)

  • Key differences between the Leica TL and Leica TL2 cameras (via Photographyblog):
Leica TL Leica TL2
Sensor 16 Megapixels 24 Megapixels
Video 1080p @ 30fps 4K @ 30fps / 1080p @ 60fps / 720p @ 120fps
ISO Speed 100-12500 100-50000
AF Speed 460ms 165ms
Shutter Speed 30 seconds – 1/4000th sec 30 seconds – 1/4000th sec (mechanical shutter)

1/6400th – 1/40000th sec (electronic shutter)

Built-in Memory 16Gb 32Gb
Connectivity USB 2, HDMI 1 USB 3, HDMI 1.4
Touchscreen 8x Faster Gesture Control
Operation Improved Menu and Operating Elements
Flash Pop-up None
  • Leica TL2 main specs:
    • 24.2MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
    • Leica Maestro II Image Processor
    • UHD 4K30 and Full HD 1080p60 Video
    • Up to 20 fps Shooting and ISO 50000
    • 3.7″ 1.3m-Dot Touchscreen LCD Monitor
    • 49-Point Contrast-Detect AF System
    • Electronic Shutter Function: 1/40000 Sec
    • MyCamera Menu; Faster Touch Controls
    • 32GB Memory and UHS-II SD Card Slot
    • Integrated Wi-Fi and USB 3.0 Type-C Port
  • Detailed technical specs, full press release and additional pictures:

Lens Mount Leica L bayonet with contact strip for communication between lens and camera
Compatible lenses Lenses with Leica L-Mount, Leica M/R lenses using the Leica M-Adapter L/R-Adapter L
Sensor APS-C sized CMOS sensor (23.6 x 15.7 mm) with 24.96/24.24 million pixels (total/effective), aspect ratio 3:2
Photo Resolution DNG: 6016 x 4014 Pixels (24 Megapixels), JPEG: optional 6000 x 4000 Pixels (24 Megapixels), or 4272 x 2856 Pixels (12 Megapixels), or 3024 x 2016 Pixels (6 Megapixels)
Photo file formats/compression rates Optional: JPG, DNG, or DNG + JPG, DNG optionally uncompressed or compressed (lossless)
Video Recording Format MP4
Video resolution / frame rate 3840 x 2160p (4K) 30fps, 1920 x 1080p (FHD) 60 fps or 1280 x 720p (HD) fps or 1280 x 720p (HD) 120 fps (SLOMO)
Video recording time Depending on ambient or housing temperature video recordings are possible up to a maximum length of 29 minutes, maximum file size is 4 GB, if a recording exceeds this limit, the respective part is automatically stored in another file
Storage media SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, multimedia cards, UHS II-standard is supported (32GB internal memory)
ISO range Automatic, ISO 100 to ISO 50000
White balance Automatic, presets for daylight, cloudy, halogen lighting, shadow, electronic flash, two memory slots for manually metered settings, manual color temperature setting
Autofocus system Contrast based
Autofocus metering methods Single point, multiple point, spot, face detection, touch AF
Exposure modes Automatic program, aperture priority, shutter speed priority, and manual setting, Fully automatic, sport, portrait, landscape, night portrait, snow/beach, fireworks, candlelight, sunset, digiscoping
Exposure metering Multi-zone, center-weighted, spot
Exposure compensation ±3 EV in 1/3 EV increments
Automatic bracketing Three pictures in graduations up to ±3 EV, adjustable in 1/3 EV increments
Shutter speed range 30 s to 1⁄40000 s (up to 1⁄4000 s with mechanical, shorter with electronic shutter)
Burst shooting Approx. 7 fps (with mechanical shutter) and 20 fps (with electronic shutter), 29 pictures at full speed, then depending on memory card properties
Flash modes Adjustable with attached, system compatible flash (no built-in flash)
Flash exposure compensation ±3 EV in 1/3 EV increments
Flash synchronization 1/180 s
Recommended Flash Unit Leica SF 40 flash
Monitor 3.7” TFT LCD, 1.3 million pixels, 854 x 480 per color channel
Self timer Selectable delay time 2 or 12 s
Wi-Fi Complies with IEEE 802.11b/g/n standard (standard WLAN protocol), channel 1-11, encryption method: WiFi-compatible WPA™/WPA2™
Power supply Leica BP-DC13 lithium ion battery, rated voltage 7.2 V, capacity 985 mAh (min.) (based on CIPA standard): approx. 250 pictures, charging time (after total discharge): approx. 160 min
Connections Micro (type D) HDMI port, HDMI 1.4b standard is supported, USB type C port, USB 3.0 Super Speed standard is supported, battery charging via USB connection possible with max. 1 A, accessory shoe with Leica flash interface with integrated connection for optional accessories
Charger Leica BC-DC13, input: AC 100-240V, 50/60Hz, automatic reversing, Output: DC 8, 4V 0, 65A, Weight: approx. 90g, Dimensions: approx. 96 X 68 X 28 mm
Body Leica unibody aluminum design, attachment system for carrying straps and other accessories, ISO accessory shoe with center and control contacts for flash units or Leica Visoflex electronic viewfinders
Tripod thread A 1/4 DIN 4503 (1/4”)
Dimensions 134 x 69 x 33 mm
Weight Approx. 399 g/355 g (with/without battery)
Items supplied Camera body, carrying strap, 2 release keys for removing the dummy plugs or the carrying strap, battery (Leica BP-DC13), charger (Leica BC-DC13) with 6 adapter plugs, USB type C cord
Software Leica App (free download in Apple™ App Store™/Google™ Play Store™)
Warranty 2 years
Leica Camera Unveils the Evolution of the TL-System with the Leica TL2

Perfected features and persuasive performance meet nuanced design in this new generation

At first shot, photographers will notice the refinement of the TL2.  A new sensor, developed specifically for this camera, and high-performance image processor work in tandem to guarantee outstanding picture quality with higher dynamic range, excellent contrast, and color definition, along with exceptional sharpness and the finest resolution of details. Even the smallest components stand out, allowing users to shoot any subject and make the photos their own. The Leica TL2 impresses similarly with its video capabilities. The camera’s various video recording modes, up to 4K resolution, make the TL2 a formidable tool for video capture as well.

Connectivity with and without a cable

Photos and videos can be conveniently transferred by wireless connection to smartphones, tablets and desktop PCs thanks to the integrated Wi-Fi module of the Leica TL2, which also allows for mobile hotspot setup and easy sharing via email and social media. Data can also be transferred lightning-fast by a wired connection, with the camera’s integrated HDMI 1.4 and USB Type C 3.0 ports. The USB-C port also enables recharging of the Leica TL2 without a battery charger – for example from a laptop computer or an external power bank.

With the Leica TL App, available for both iOS and Android devices, smartphones or tablets are transformed into remote electronic viewfinders and offer remote control of various exposure-relevant parameters such as the shutter speed and aperture. The Leica TL App also makes it much easier to capture photos and video from unusual angles, with a self-timer and longer shutter speeds.

Modern, intuitive and versatile controls

Leica’s commitment to eliminating distractions and focusing on the essentials is showcased in the TL2 camera controls.  The MyCamera menu and user interface groups icons according to related functions and thus creates a seamless user experience.  Photographers will notice that this function makes handling easier and more intuitive than ever while on the go. The menu can be further personalized to meet individual preferences and particular needs, meaning that the photographer always has fast access to all frequently used features and pre-sets.

Furthermore, as a continuation of Leica’s commitment, the TL2 features significantly increased touchscreen fluidity and responsiveness, to make using the camera even faster and more enjoyable.  At the heart of this, a bright and clearly laid-out 3.7″ LCD touchscreen display enables both composition and reliable and convenient assessment of subjects before and after exposure. The only other controls are four ergonomically positioned physical elements that are intuitive in their operation.

The comprehensive portfolio of lenses in the Leica TL-System offers an ideal range of focal lengths for all situations and types of photography. The system currently comprises of six lenses – three prime lenses and three zoom lenses – that meet the needs of every photographic situation. The two fast prime lenses, the Leica Summicron-TL 23 mm f/2 ASPH. and the Summilux-TL 35 mm f/1.4 ASPH., are classic focal lengths for reportage photography, and the APO-Macro-Elmarit-TL 60 mm f/2.8 ASPH. complements them ideally as a lens for finely detailed close-up photography and portraits. The three compact zoom lenses, the Leica Super-Vario-Elmar-TL 11–23 mm f/3.5–4.5 ASPH., Vario-Elmar-TL 18–56 mm f/3.5–5.6 ASPH. and APO-Vario-Elmar-TL 55–135 mm f/3.5–4.5 ASPH. cover an entire range of focal lengths equivalent to 17 to 200 mm (equiv. in 35 mm format) and deliver exposures with rich contrast and sharpness from corner to corner of each frame.

Developed by optical design specialists in Wetzlar, Germany, all Leica TL-Lenses offer the exceptional imaging performance and iconic “Leica look” for which Leica lenses are famed. The combination of optical and precision engineering and use of the finest materials in their construction ensures their constant quality and reliability in use.

Sustainability guaranteed by cross-system compatibility

A major nuance and advantage of the TL2 – and a demonstration of Leica’s fundamental principles of cross-system compatibility and sustainability – is its compatibility across the Leica lens portfolio. The camera features an L-Bayonet mount, which allows it to fit seamlessly with all TL and SL lenses without an adapter.  Should users choose to use lenses within the M or R systems, Leica has also created new adapters that make this possible, as well.  This opens up the camera to an exciting range of lenses across Leica’s product portfolio – a veritable playground of lenses available to the user.

 

Like the new Leica TL2 Facebook page for a more detailed coverage.

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