Leica Camera AG, Solms, have introduced the Leica V-Lux 3 compact digital camera that comes with an extensive range of features.
The V-Lux 3 features a Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 4.5-108 mm f/2.8 – 5.2 ASPH. 24-fold super-telephoto zoom lens with a wide range of focal lengths equivalent to 25–600 mm in 35 mm format, which is ideal for photographers who enjoy shooting landscapes, architecture, sport, travel, portraits or wildlife. It also incorporates a newly developed 12.1-megapixel CMOS image sensor that promises exceptional image quality for all applications. On top of that, the V-Lux 3 also has an extensive range of video options and video quality comparable with that delivered by premium-range video camcorders.
The Leica V-Lux 3 can capture full High Definition (HD) video in AVCHD format at 1920×1080 pixels and 60 full frames per second. It is also capable of 24-fold zoom range during video recording and has an integrated stereo microphone with electronic wind noise filter to provide a clear audio. Another highlight of the V-Lux 3 is its high-speed burst-shooting capability – burst mode of 12 frames per second at full resolution, or 60 frames per second at a resolution of 3.5-megapixel.
The camera is compact, lightweight and offers simple handling. It has a 3-inch LCD display (460,000 pixel resolution) that can be twisted and turned in almost any direction, even in the most unusual angles, and an integrated handgrip that keeps your shot steady. All its controls are clearly laid out and simple to use; for example, video recording can be started quickly and easily at the touch of a button on the top deck of the camera.
The $950 price point is undeniably high — it’s well into higher-end ILC category at this point — but that shouldn’t really come as a surprise. That price also includes a copy of Adobe Photoshop Elements and Premiere Elements, a combo that usually costs $150, so there’s more value in it if you’re just getting started. Look for it to start hitting shelves in January 2012. Of course, this camera shares the vast majority of its components with the Panasonic DMC-FZ150, which you can get right now for under $400, so do with that information what you will.
