Mixing Leica SL2-S Mirrorless Camera 24-70mm f/2.8 Lensis a well-rounded full-frame mirrorless camera with apt photo and video capabilities. Revolving around Leica's first BSI CMOS sensor, the 24.6MP sensor offers DCI/UHD 4K 10-bit video recording, broad sensitivity from ISO 50-100,000, and vivid image quality with low noise.

The sensor is complemented by the refined Maestro III image processor, which avails high-speed performance and versatility throughout the camera system. Full-res DNG continuous shooting at up to 25 fps is possible along with 4K video at up to 60p or Full HD at up to 180 fps. And, emphasizing the hybrid ethos, Leica has also implemented separate Photo and Video menu systems for more intuitive navigation and settings control when working in either mode.

Complementing both photo and video applications, a 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization system minimizes the appearance of camera shake for sharper handheld shooting. Also, the sensor's design incorporates a Leica Object Detection AF system, which uses 225 selectable AF areas for fast and accurate performance.

Beyond updated imaging, the SL2-S also features durable, weather-sealed body design that includes a 5.76m-dot EyeRes OLED EVF and a large 3.2" 2.1m-dot touchscreen LCD. A top status LCD is also featured for quick recognition of shooting settings and dual UHS-II-compatible SD memory card slots offer file-saving flexibility. Additionally, built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth work in conjunction with the Leica FOTOs app for wireless file transferring and remote camera control.

24.6MP Full-Frame BSI CMOS Sensor    Maestro III Image Processor    DCI 4K Video; HLG & 10-Bit Recording    ISO 50-100000, Up to 25 fps Shooting    5.76m-Dot 0.78x-Mag. EyeRes OLED EVF    3.2" 2.1m-Dot Touchscreen LCD    Contrast-Detect 225-Area AF System    5-Axis Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization    96MP Multishot, Dual SD UHS-II Slots    Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm f/2.8 Lens

Featuring a highly versatile full-frame 24.6MP BSI CMOS sensor, the SL2-S has apt imaging capabilities for both stills and video applications. Coupled with the Maestro III image processor, fast performance is ensured along with a wide ISO 50-100,000 sensitivity range. The sensor's BSI design also promotes especially clean and smooth color and tonal rendering, along with reduced noise when working at higher ISO settings. The sensor's design also omits a low-pass filter in order to maintain the highest degree of sharpness and resolution. Additionally, beyond sheer image quality, the processing power affords quick continuous shooting, up to 25 fps with an electronic shutter or 9 fps with a mechanical shutter, and a 4GB buffer enables near limitless burst shooting of full-resolution DNG or JPEG files.

An immensely capable video camera, the SL2-S offers both DCI and UHD 4K recording at up to 60p using either the full-frame sensor area or an APS-C/Super 35mm crop. Internal 10-bit 4:2:2 recording is supported for frame rates up to 30p, and 60p is available at 8-bit 4:2:0. When recording externally via the full-size HDMI port, 10-bit output is available at all frame rates for DCI and UHD 4K. Full HD recording is also supported with high-speed frame rates up to 180 fps for slow-motion playback. Additionally, there is no imposed recording limit at any resolution or frame rate, allowing for extended recording times.

Complementing the video quality, a dedicated Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) mode and L-Log gamma profile can be used to for in-camera HDR output or for expand highlight and shadow detail and greater flexibility when color grading during post-production. There are also integrated viewing LUTs for improved color control and accuracy. Video recording can be split into 1-minute segments to avoid data loss, and a color bar provides reference for correct color grading and sound control in postproduction. Additionally, benefitting audio quality, support for an external microphone and headphones are also available via dedicated 3.5mm jacks.

Video recording can be split into 1-minute segments to avoid data loss.

• Used in conjunction with other members of the L-Mount Alliance, the L lens mount is a versatile interface with a mount diameter of 51.6mm and a flange distance of 20mm for working with a broad range of optics.

• The impressive EyeRes EVF is a high-resolution 5.76m-dot OLED finder offering a clear 0.78x configurable viewing magnification along with a smooth 120 fps refresh rate and 0.005 sec lag.

• Large 3.2" 2.1m-dot touchscreen LCD is a bright, clear means for live view shooting as well as playback and menu navigation. This screen also uses Gorilla Glass for a highly durable design.

• Separate photo and video menu systems eliminate the need to readjust settings when switching from photo to video modes, resulting in a more intuitive workflow, especially when mixing content types in a single shoot.

• In addition to the rear LCD, a 1.28" top status LCD can also be used for quickly reviewing shooting settings, even when the camera is powered off.

• Durable, weather-sealed magnesium-alloy construction is splash, dust, and freezeproof (IP54-rated) to accommodate working in harsh weather conditions and trying environments.

• Dual UHS-II-compatible SD memory card slots offer flexible image storage, allowing you to segregate raw and JPEG files to different cards, save duplicate files to both cards, or simply double your storage space with overflow recording.

• A USB Type-C port allows for fast file transferring; tethering, with full support for Capture One 21 and Adobe Photoshop Lightroom; and high-speed in-camera battery charging. Additionally, a full-size HDMI Type-A port benefits video applications, and 3.5mm microphone and headphone jacks suit advanced audio recording needs.

• BP-SCL4 rechargeable lithium-ion battery is rated for approximately 510 shots per charge.

• Built-in Wi-Fi, when used in conjunction with the Leica FOTOS app for iOS and Android, permits sharing imagery directly to a linked mobile device and also enables remote control over the camera and remote shooting via a live view image. Additionally, Bluetooth LE helps to maintain a permanent connection between the mobile device and the camera, enabling remote waking of the camera and automatic connection anytime within range.

Helping to achieve the utmost sharpness when photographing handheld, 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization compensates for a broad range of movement types to render sharper, clearer imagery.

Using sensor-shift stabilization technology, the SL2-S also features a Multishot mode to capture and compile eight separate exposure to create a single 96MP file. Suitable for static subjects and when working on a tripod, this mode creates a more highly detailed and color accurate image than a single shot alone can produce and produces an image with a 12000 x 8000-pixel resolution.

For accelerated autofocus performance, a Leica Object Detection AF system quickly calculates the distance to subjects and adjusts the focusing position with sensor and lens communication occurring at rates up to 480 fps. This contrast-detection type focus method benefits both still and video recording modes, as well as subject tracking applications through the use of a Body Detection mode. It also features 225 selectable AF areas, which provide excellent control over where the camera will focus, and Automatic Follow Focus offers three focus points for automatic focus shift during video recording.

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. For someone considering moving to Leica with a collection of Canon EF lenses, but finding an adapter that works with Canon EF to Leica M mount that works with the SL2, SL2-S series is not yielding results. Is there such a thing?

A: Being that the SL2S uses the Leica L mount, an adapter such as the Commlite Electronic Autofocus Lens Mount Adapter for Canon EF or EF-S-Mount Lens to L-Mount Camera, BH #COCMEFL. https://bhpho.to/3gTFYGm

Q: 2. Does the image stabilization IBIS work with old Leica M lenses? I read that it did not.

A: The image stabilization does work with Leica M glass unless you turn off the IBIS in camera.

Q: 3. Does this camera offer different aspect ratio's in camera AND show a mask in the monitor? If so, what ratio's does it support?

A: The Leica SL2-S Mirrorless Camera does mask the monitor depending on the aspect ratio selected. Aspect ratio options in the camera are: 3:2, 7:5, 4:3, 1:1, 3:1, and 16:9.

Q: 4. I would buy this camera in a heart beat for video. too many unanswered questions. What exactly are the firmware updates. Which would make this camera a workable camera without having to rely on an external recorder.?

A: The Leica SL2-S currently offers the following that you used to need a separate recorder for: Endless recording, so no 29-minute limitation in recording. Integrated viewing LUTS optimized for L-log. To answer your first question regarding firmware updates; With the first firmware update coming late Spring 2021 you will see the following: Segmented video recording – camera records off video recordings in 1-minute segments to reduce the likelihood of lost footage due to a dead battery or memory card issues. Users can upload their own viewing LUT to the camera. On board waveform for exposure and color evaluation. Color Bar and Audio tone generation at the beginning of the clip. Tally mode – making it easier to know you are recording with a flashing red box around the screen. Also, there will be an Automatic Follow focus mode where the user can set the parameters for focusing based on time and distance. This would reduce the need of an auxiliary follow focus.

Q: 5. How many stop of dynamic range is the SL2-S capable of in video mode?

A: There are many factors in evaluating dynamic range. While we do not have any specifics on the SL2-S's dynamic range in video mode, we can say the file, if properly exposed, is very flexible. Another consideration is the LUT that is being applied. Hope this info helps.

Q: 6. Just received my SL2 and noticed it rattles when lightly shaken or quickly moved. Is this normal?

A: Hi Gary, This is completely normal. When the camera is turned off the in body image stabilizer (IBIS) is not active allowing the sensor to move and rattle when shaking the camera. Once the camera is on the sensor is stationary. Enjoy your new SL2!

Q: 7. 4k 60p crop?

A: Yes. In 4K60p, it records in APS-C/Super35mm sensor-size. Full-frame in 4K30 and up to 1080 180p.

Q: 8. Is there a headphone outlet to monitor audio as recorded?

A: Yes, this does have a headphone jack.

Q: 9. One of my often used set ups is to use a combined Self Timer Delay triggering a Bracket Shot. I found this to be mutually exclusive on the M10 as they are both on the Drive Menu. In the SL2 instruction Manual on Page 134 Bracketing is in the Drive Menu and on Page 135 Self Timer is in the Main Menu As this is Similar to the CL and the main buttons (Function) are the same i would expect the same functionality on the SL2 Can you verify that my assumptions are correct?

A: On the SL2 (and the SL was the same way) both self timer modes and exposure bracketing modes are in the Drive Settings. So they cannot be used at the same time with the SL2 or SL.

Q: 10. Is this camera using the same autofocus as the Panasonic S5? Is contrast autofocus any good in low light (especially with continuous shooting)?

A: This is Leica's own AF system and is not the same as Panasonic's. The contrast base principals may have some similarities and they may find challenges in low light situations when contrast is at its minimum.