Allendale, NJ—The Leica TL is the newest model from Leica Camera, further expanding the company’s mirrorless camera systems. The Leica TL continues the Leica T camera concept but adds features as well as design changes.
Upgrades include more internal storage that tops out at 32 gigabytes as well as faster autofocus performance, particularly in AF-C mode.
Additionally, the TL comes in a new titanium anodized finish and features a body with curved edges.
Furthermore, Leica unveiled additional features in the iOS app and also a new Android app. The Leica TL also offers lens compatibility with legacy Leica R lenses via the R-Adapter L. And it offers a new optical image stabilization function that’s available with Leica SL OIS lenses.
The trademark of the Leica TL is its extremely compact body. Each camera is crafted from a single block of aluminum in the Leica factory in Wetzlar, Germany. Camera operation is said to be clearly laid out and intuitive, with its 3.7-inch, 1.3M-dot touch-screen display the primary control center.
“The large LCD and control layout enables precise and reliable assessment during subject composition and in playback mode, with most functions controlled by a simple tap on the screen,” Leica Camera announced. “The remaining controls are four strategically positioned physical dials and buttons, which ensure that users can concentrate fully on composing their pictures—without any unnecessary distractions.”
In addition, there is a customizable MyCamera menu designed to offer greater flexibility, even in spontaneous situations. It allows the photographer access to the most frequently used features and personalized presets.
Tech specs include a high-performance image processor coupled to a 16.2 megapixel, APS-C-format CMOS image sensor. They are claimed to produce photos with “outstanding contrast, fine detail resolution and natural color rendition—even in unfavorable lighting conditions.” They also produce an ISO range of 100 to 12,500.
Additionally, the camera is capable of recording MP4 video in Full HD 1,920x1080p at 30 frames per sec or HD 1,280x720p at 30 fps.
Furthermore, with its integrated Wi-Fi module and ability to create its own mobile hotspot, the Leica TL transfers stills and video wirelessly to smartphones, tablets, laptops or desktop PCs from nearly anywhere. Users can then share their pictures and videos by e-mail, on Facebook or via other social networks.
The free Leica TL app for iOS and Android devices will be available with the release of the camera. In addition to wireless transfer, the app permits users to use their smart device as a remote electronic viewfinder. This results in remote control of shutter speed and aperture settings.
The Leica TL mirrorless camera will be available in three color options: silver, black and titanium. The silver and black editions are identical in design and construction. The titanium option is distinguished by a beveled edge enveloping the top and bottom plates for added comfort.
Optional TL camera accessories will include protectors in Nappa leather and color-coordinated carrying straps in gray, black, red and cemento.
Leica TL Compatible Lenses
All Leica TL lenses are designed with the ‘Leica look’ and engineered to produce signature bokeh. Developed by optical design specialists in Wetzlar, the TL system currently comprises six lenses. Three are prime lenses and three are zooms.
There are two fast prime lenses, the Leica Summicron-TL 23mm f/2 Asph and Summilux-TL 35mm f/1.4 Asph. These are classic focal lengths for reportage and street photography. The APO-Macro-Elmarit-TL 60mm f/2.8 Asph lens is geared for finely detailed close-up photography and portraiture.
The three compact zoom lenses are the Leica Super-Vario-Elmar-TL 11–23mm f/3.5–4.5 Asph, Vario-Elmar-TL 18–56mm f/3.5–5.6 Asph and APO-Vario-Elmar-TL 55–135mm f/3.5–4.5 Asph. They cover a range of focal lengths equivalent to 17mm to 200mm in the 35mm format.
In addition, due to the L-Bayonet mount shared by the Leica SL and Leica TL, SL lenses can be used without an adapter on the Leica TL. Adapters are also available for use with Leica M and R lenses.
The Leica TL camera and accessories will be available beginning this month. The camera body will retail for $1,695. The TL lenses start at $1,650 for the Leica Vario-Elmar-TL 18–56mm f/3.5–5.6 Asph and culminate at $2,995 for the APO-Macro-Elmarit-TL 60mm f/2.8 Asph. us.leica-camera.com
