Leica 007 – “Now there’s a name to die for”

Well we couldn’t do a write up on the 007 without adding a James Bond pun, or two…

The Leica S (Typ 007)

For the first time, the combination of the highest burst rate, extreme sensor sensitivity and comprehensive capture modes for still pictures – and now also video in exceptional quality – provides photographers with the opportunity to exploit the superior imaging capabilities of medium format for productions that demand maximum mobility and drive. The Leica S significantly accelerates and simplifies the photographic workflow with a multitude of features that are unique to medium-format photography – and some of them not only there. In addition to the new body, a new lens also expands the capabilities of the S-System. With regard to speed and imaging quality, the Leica Summicron-S 100 mm f/2 ASPH. telephoto portrait lens represents a new benchmark. Finally, the Leica S-System also welcomes the new Leica S-E (Type 006) as a lower-priced entry-level model.

Lets begin with the specs;

Image sensor	37.5 MP 45 x 30 mm CMOS sensor
Maximum Resolution	7500 x 5000 px
Dynamic Range	13 stops
Colour Depth	16-bit
Colour Space	rRGB / Adobe RGB / eciRGB_v2
White Balance	Daylight, clouds, shade, tungsten, HMI, neon warm, neon cool, flash, gray card, Live View, autoWB, color temperature (Kelvin)
Sensitivity	Auto, ISO 200 to ISO 6400 (ISO 100 pull setting)
Shutter	Focal plane shutter
Shutter Speed Range	125 to 1/4000 sec. in ½ EV Steps
File Format	DNG lossless compressed: 37.5 MP, JPEG: 37.5 MP, 9.3 MP, 2.3 MP, DNG+JPEG
Full Size	DNG lossless compressed: 42 MB, JPEG: 16 to 1 MB, depending on image content and resolution
Buffer	DNG lossless compressed: Up to 32 images, JPEG: No limit, depending on memory medium, exposure time, and ISO
Storage	1x SD/SDHC/SDXC, 1x CompactFlash (UDMA 7), External via tethered connection
Video Recording	Full HD 1920 x 1080 (with Leica Pro Format sensor area), 4K 4096 x 2160 (with Super 35 window mode)
Frame Rate	Full HD: 24, 25, and 30 fps, 4K: 24 fps
Video File Format	MOV (Motion JPEG)
Colour Space	sRGB (16 million colours)
Wi-Fi:	Built-in Wi-Fi and GPS mode
Interface	HDMI Type C jack
Power Supply	Battery S: Rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack (7.3 V, 2850 mAh), Leica AC Adapter S (optional)
Dimensions	6.3 x 3.1 x 4.7″ / 160 x 80 x 120 mm
Weight	2.8 lb / 1.26 kg (without battery)

For more specs click here

Medium format redefined

Introducing the new flagship model in the Leica S-System range. Offering a host of new features, in particular, the innovative Leica Max CMOS image sensor in Leica Pro Format and the Leica Maestro II image processor with a continuous shooting rate of up to 3.5 frames per second – the new Leica S sets a new record in the medium format category. Experience shooting speed and versatility that you won’t find in other medium format cameras. The body and monitor screen of the new Leica S are extremely resilient, and numerous seals provide all components with full protection against dust and moisture.

Also new in this model is an enhanced predictive autofocus system for dynamic photography, and medium format moving pictures in ‘cine-look’ with outstanding image quality. The entire 45 mm width of the sensor is used for video recording in full-HD resolution. Combined with the exceptional quality of the S-System lenses, this advanced camera delivers a particularly outstanding visual experience for cineasts!

Q&A with Max Montgomery – putting the 007 to the test

Max Montgomery is a British photographer who now lives in New York. He has shot for numerous magazines including Vogue Italia, Marie Claire, Town and Country, and Sunday Times. Some of his advertising clients include Jitrois, Cavalli, HK Intimates, Lot78, Edge o’ Beyond, and Rohmir.

Q: You had the chance to try one of the first Leica S (Typ 007). Had you been shooting with a previous model Leica S before?

A: Yes. I’ve had one for a couple of years. Let me say, first off, that the Leica S (Typ 007) is the best camera I’ve ever used in my life.

Q: How does it compare to the previous models?

A: The old camera was amazing too, but the problem was that it was a little too slow. It was easy to miss some moments. You miss a lot on the old S. For static portraits it was fantastic, but it wasn’t quite fast enough for motion photography. I like to capture things in movement so that was really important for me.

Q: What was responsible for that?

A: The buffer size doubled, I think, which means you can shoot quicker and more.

Q: Did you favour any particular one for your creative work?

A: The lens I’m most impressed by, my favourite is the 35 mm. It’s a true 35. It doesn’t distort. You can get really close to people and it’s just a really photographic lens. You can get really close up and the distortion just isn’t there. Especially for a digital camera, that’s really rare.

Check out this video shot by Max on the Leica S (typ 007)

Like what you’re seeing? Check it out on the CVP website..