The Leica Q3 makes its debut, allow us to reveal to you what makes this camera a truly exceptional and unique piece of equipment in the world of photography.
Smartphone photography has undeniably revolutionized the way we capture and share our moments. However, for photography enthusiasts and professionals, nothing can match the image quality and feel of a real camera. This is where the Leica Q3 comes in, the anti-smartphone par excellence.
A third generation
Presented in its third generation, the Leica Q3 is a small format, but incredibly impressive digital camera. It is equipped with a full-frame sensor (full frame) housed in a small package, a technological feat that smartphones are not close to achieving. Add to that a very high quality Summilux 1:1.7/28mm ASPH lens, with built-in macro mode, and you have a powerful image capture machine.
Unlike smartphones with multiple cameras for different focal lengths, the Leica Q3 does not offer optical zoom. Still, it’s capable of snapping incredibly detailed and sharp shots, proof that zoom isn’t always essential for high-quality photography. Its lens system is fixed, reminiscent of the classic Leica M system.
The major update of the Leica Q3 lies in its BSI sensor with a definition of 62.39 megapixels / 60.3 megapixels (total / effective) and the Maestro IV processor. Although it cannot zoom optically, the Leica Q3 offers digital zoom through cropping when taking photos. This translates into 35, 50, 75 and 90mm focal lengths, corresponding to 39, 19, 8 and 6 megapixels respectively.
Finally armed for video
Besides its photography prowess, the Leica Q3 also shines in the video realm. It introduces new features, the most notable of which is 8K video definition. Available in C8K variant (8192×4320 pixels) pixels in 10-bit 4:2:0 H.265 long-Gop (300 Mbps), this should deliver remarkably detailed and rich video quality.
The Leica Q3 also improves the user experience with a higher resolution (1.84 megapixel) viewfinder and LCD screen compared to its predecessor, the Q2. In addition, the LCD screen can now be tilted. It also introduces an innovative feature: that of charging wirelessly, although this requires the purchase of an optional handle. The battery capacity is also changing, 2200 mAh (BP-SCL6), obviously removable.
However, quality and rarity come at a price. With a recommended retail price of 5,950 euros, the Leica Q3 is a high-end camera for photography enthusiasts and professionals. It competes directly with the Sony RX1R Mark II, even if the latter is starting to show very advanced signs of aging.
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