June 10, 2015 – Leica Camera introduces the Leica Q today, a camera design concept that proudly combines all of the high performance qualities of a full frame sensor in convenient compact housing. Equipped with the fastest lens in its class and an interface that makes for easy and intuitive handling, the Q is the perfect instrument for capturing the decisive moments of life and turning them into lasting memories. The Q also boasts the ability to shoot in full HD video, instantly share content socially via built-in WiFi capabilities, and features Leica’s fastest autofocus to date.

“We’re extremely proud to offer this ground-breaking compact camera that offers the functionality of our classic models and the convenience of a high end compact camera,” said German Product Manager, Peter Kruschewski. “The new Leica Q carries the rich brand traditions of Leica forward with the high quality features you come to expect from Leica, while also keeping the future in mind by integrating social sharing into the model.”

In addition, the new “digital frame selector” function displays the focal lengths of 35 and 50 mm at the push of a button, to allow photographers to see focal lengths beyond the fixed 28 mm. As with a rangefinder camera, photographers using this compact model can now still see what is going on outside the digital viewfinder’s bright-line frame and can react much faster to changes in and around the subject.

The “Made in Germany” seal of quality for the Leica Q also guarantees that only the finest materials are used in its construction. In traditional Leica style, the top plate is crafted from a solid block of aluminium, the body is made of magnesium alloy, and all lettering and markings on its setting dials are laser-engraved. The thumb rest on the back of the Leica Q and the diamond pattern of the camera’s leathering also ensure ideal grip, and clearly illustrate that form and function still go hand-in-hand at Leica.

More details on exciting new features of the new Leica Q:

• 24-megapixel, full frame, CMOS sensor precisely matched to its lens. The Leica Q delivers richly detailed pictures with almost noise-free, richly detailed pictures at ISO settings up to 50.000.
• Fastest autofocus in the compact full-frame camera class. The newly developed processor from the Leica Maestro II series sets an enormous pace in this category with continuous shooting at a rate of ten frames per second at full resolution.
• Integrated 3.68-megapixel electronic viewfinder. The highest resolution viewfinder of its kind displays both the fixed 28 mm view along with focal lengths of 35 mm and 50 mm on demand.
• Conveniently placed functions provide instant access to all the essentials that come into play when taking a photo. Not only can you control the focus manually, but the Q also is equipped with a touchscreen that can select a focus point with a simple touch of the fingertip.
• Ability to save two versions of the photograph. The JPEG image files are saved in the selected framing, while the RAW files in DNG format preserve the entire field captured by the 28 mm lens.
• Video recorded in full HD. Depending on the scene, users can choose between 30 and 60 frames per second for video recording in MP4 format. The video setting also features a wind-noise filter which guarantees crystal-clear sound.
• A WiFi module for wireless transmission of still pictures and video to other devices. The app also allows you to remotely control settings such as aperture and shutter speed from your smart phone or tablet. The free Leica Q app to access these features can be downloaded from the Leica Web site.
• Free downloadable Adobe Photoshop Lightroom. This processing software offers a comprehensive range of functions to enhance and edit your Leica Q images.
• Full range of accessories. Just like the camera, every item in the range of accessories and technical equipment for the Leica Q is functionally designed for easy handling and manufactured from only the finest materials to ensure versatility, reliability, and durability.

The Leica Q, priced at $4,250, is now available at your local Leica Store or retailer.

About Leica Camera
Passion for creating perfect pictures. Leica represents a union of craftsmanship, design and experience. It is a beautiful collision of art and engineering, and the future of form and functionality. Leica Camera is an internationally operating, premium-segment manufacturer of cameras and sport optics products. The legendary status of the Leica brand is founded on a long tradition of excellence in the supreme quality and performance of cameras and lenses, and the iconic images that artists and photojournalists everywhere captured with them.  Leica Camera AG is headquartered in Wetzlar, Germany.

For more information about Leica visit www.leica-camera.com, or follow the brand on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.