A perfect synthesis
The LEICA S2’s excellence is based not only on its high-resolution image sensor but also the unique “S” format and full range of features such as autofocus, high-speed Maestro image processor, highly rugged design and its optimal size and ease-of-use for professional photography. The S2 achieves a perfect synthesis, combining the highest image quality in a camera with incomparable ease-of-use. It breaks new ground in every way so photographers can enjoy perfect results with a camera that is truly easy to handle. The Leica S system is the only professional camera system which makes a clean break with legacy categories such as “35mm” or “medium format” and was developed solely for the digital domain. This means the S2 has forged ahead with its own format focused on ease-of-use and excellent image quality the Leica S format. This format leads the way in the quality of all components and ease of handling, giving photographers the creative scope they need. The decisive advantage of the LEICA S2 is the sum of its features: flexibility, ruggedness and easy operation combined with industry-leading resolution and image quality. The S2 outperforms other camera systems in the medium-format category, setting a completely new standard.
A unique image sensor design for unparalleled quality
The S2’s image sensor was developed by Kodak especially for the S system. With a resolution of 37.5 megapixels, it offers performance suitable for any application. The 30 x 45mm CCD sensor features an aspect ratio of 3:2 and an area nearly 60% larger than that of a traditional 35mm camera for stunning image quality. In the interest of preserving image sharpness, the camera dispenses with a low-pass filter. Instead, Moir? effects are detected and eliminated by the camera's internal signal processing, thus taking full advantage of the system's high-resolution lenses. A special micro-lens pattern allows complete capture of angled light rays on the image periphery for optimal use in available light. With sensitivity up to ISO 1250, low-noise images can be captured under marginal lighting conditions.
Compact design and familiar feel
The LEICA S2 has the look and feel of traditional 35mm SLR cameras, thus offering a camera whose handling has long been appreciated by professional photographers. The integration of electronic components and the very latest design methods have made the S2 appreciably smaller than other medium-format cameras. The number of controls was kept to a bare minimum without limiting the camera’s many features and options. Operation of the S2 becomes intuitive after a brief period of working with the camera. The result is a finely balanced camera with a pleasant heft that lets photographers work fluidly and spontaneously.
Because the size and weight are far lower than comparable medium-format systems in a camera that features a high-resolution CCD as well as high-speed operation, the LEICA S2 is not only the right choice for the studio, but also for working on location and capturing images without a tripod.
Faster results with a high-speed system
The S2’s high-speed Maestro image processor chip and additional camera control processor deliver exceptional processing power. Fast signal processing by the Maestro chip allows up to 1.5 images a second at maximum resolution. The powerful Maestro dual processor allows high quality JPEG files to be created in the camera, the only medium-format to have this feature. The LEICA S2 has slots for both Compact Flash and SD, with an option for saving RAW format Adobe DNG data onto Compact Flash and JPEG to the SD card, simultaneously. This makes it easy to
quickly check images on the set while streamlining post-processing. Using Adobe DNG for raw image data gives photographers the utmost in flexibility because this open-source data format is supported by all major graphic editing and workflow solutions. Leica supplies the universal
Adobe Lightroom workflow solution with the camera. Leica’s own Image Shuttle software allows all of the S2 features to be controlled remotely from a computer. Image files are written directly onto the hard drive for immediate processing. An HDMI interface allows images to be presented and checked directly on monitors, television sets, and projectors.
Reference-class lenses
The highest priority during development of the Leica S lenses was the utmost in image quality. Their sophisticated design features special grades of glass and aspherical surfaces rarely found in optics of this size. In addition, lenses manufactured to extremely narrow tolerances with each lens centered by hand, guarantees a superior optical performance. The full performance of each lens is available even at full aperture setting or when shooting from a distance or capturing
close-up images. Vignetting, distortion and chromatic aberrations have been reduced to the point of imperceptibility, eliminating the need for quality-degrading image corrections, and simplifying digital post-processing considerably. The newly developed S-bayonet mount ensures rapid and precise digital exchange of data and commands between the camera and lens. Four S series lenses will be launched for the most important focal lengths, starting with the classic LEICA SUMMARIT-S 70 mm f/2.5 ASPH. and the LEICA APO-TELE-ELMAR-S 180 mm f/3.5 telephoto lenses. The LEICA APO-MACRO-SUMMARIT-S 120 mm f/2.5 as the solution for close-ups and portraits and the wide-angle LEICA SUMMARIT-S 35 mm f/2.5 ASPH. are set to follow in late 2009. Multiply focal distances given here by 0.8 for comparison with corresponding 35mm-format lenses. A selection of S lenses will also be available in a CS variant with an integrated leaf shutter. Leica is planning to rapidly expand its range of S lenses in the future.
Dual shutter system
The LEICA S2 allows photographers to choose the shutter system which best matches the task at hand. The S2 flagship camera is equipped with a metal focal-plane shutter with the fastest shutter speed of 1/4000 of a second and a flash synch time of 1/125 of a second. Lenses of the most important focal lengths will be available in the future with integrated leaf shutters designed by Leica engineers that photographers can activate via the camera’s main switch. The integrated leaf shutter allows flash units to be used at the fastest shutter speed of 1/500 second, giving photographers more options for suppressing unwanted ambient light. Several patents are pending for the Leica leaf shutter, which features an electronically-controlled drive guaranteeing reliable, fast exposure times and low energy consumption.
Precise, high-speed autofocus
The autofocus developed by Leica for the S2 is based on a centrally positioned cross-hair sensor for high precision focusing. Each S lens has its own Leica-designed microprocessor for precise autofocus and iris diaphragm control. The integrated focusing drive is a proprietary Leica design that features silent gearing. All S lenses have a generous focus ring with just the right amount of drag, letting the photographer override the autofocus at any time.
Rugged, long-lasting design
The camera’s body is made of durable die-cast magnesium with a leather-grain finish for maximum grip. The S2 and all S lenses are also extensively weatherproofed and can withstand exposure to rain and dust. The USB and remote control ports feature rugged bayonet locks with strain relief. The S2 can also be supplied with a highly scratch-resistant LEICA S2-P sapphire glass display cover for the most rugged and demanding conditions or for camera rental.
Authorized sales and service network
The LEICA S2 is only sold through authorized dealers who also offer specialized consultation and support. This network of dealers is part of the extended S system service package. The S system has its own customer care team with a dedicated helpline making immediate service available for any problems and questions S system owners may have. Professional photographers who demand absolute reliability from their camera systems can choose from additional service package upgrades to enhance the generous standard warranty coverage. The Platinum service package includes free maintenance as well as loaner equipment for the duration of the service work. Please review the attached warranty table for more details.
Technical data LEICA S2 / LEICA S2-P
Camera type: Digital single-lens reflex camera for use with Leica S lensesImage sensor: low-noise Kodak CCD sensor. Resolution: 37.5 megapixels (7,500 x 5,000).
Size: 45 x 30mm, pixel spacing: 6?m. Aspect ratio: 3:2.
Dynamic range: 12 stops, color depth: 16 bits per pixel, low-pass
filter: none (Moir? detection and suppression using digital signal
processing)
Sensitivity range: ISO 80 to 1250 (manual or automatic control)
Data storage (format): DNG (approx. 75 MB per image), JPEG (basic or fine),
Memory cards: CompactFlash (up to 64 GB), SD cards (HC)
Maximum frame rate: 1.5 images/s, buffer memory: 1 GB (for a minimum sequence of 8 images in DNG format)
Control monitor: 3-inch TFT with 460,000 pixels, 16 million colors, cover glass: highly abrasion and scratch resistant sapphire glass (only with theLEICA S2-P)
Connections: High-speed USB 2.0 (robust connection with strain-relief, cable included), HDMI, remote release, X sync, SCA3002
Exposure metering: Multi-field metering (5 fields), center-weighted integral metering, spot metering (3.5%)
Exposure control: Program mode (with Shift function), shutter priority, aperture priority, manual metering
Shutter: Metal focal-plane shutter integrated in body: 1/4000 s to 32 s (B to 120 s), flash sync time: 1/125 s, optional leaf shutter in selected lenses: 1/500 s to 32 s, flash synch time: All speeds Flash operation: Metering method: TTL (multi-field, center-weighted, spot), TTL-HSS rapid synchronization up to 1/4000 s with focal plane shutter, Compatibility: fully compatible with LEICA SF 58 and devices with SCA3002 adapters
Auto Focus: central crosshair sensor, focusing drive in lens
Operating Modes: AF Continuous, AF Single, MF, MF Override
Viewfinder: High eye-point pentaprism viewfinder
Magnification: 0.86x, viewfinder field: 96%, diopter compensation -3 to +1, focusing screen: Matte with cross-hairs (interchangeable)
Power supply: Li-Ion battery (7.4 V, 2150 mAh)
Housing: Die-cast magnesium, size (without lens): 160 x 120 x 80 mm, weight: 1410 g (including battery), resistant to dust and dripping/splashing water
Scope of supply Software: Adobe Lightroom, Leica Image Shuttle, one battery,
charging unit, USB cable
Technical data LEICA SUMMARIT-S 35 mm f/2.5 ASPH. (CS)
Lenses/groups: 11/9 (2 aspherical surfaces)
Optical design: Rear group focusing
Image angle (diagonal,
horizontal, vertical): approx. 75?, 65?, 46?, approx. corresponds to 28 mm
in 35 mm-format
Aperture range: 2.5 to 22
Shortest distance: 0.55 m
Largest image scale: 1:11
Filter thread size: 82 mm
Dimensions
(diameter/length): 88 mm/122 mm
Weight: 930 g (CS: 1080 g)
Technical data LEICA SUMMARIT-S 70 mm f/2.5 ASPH. (CS)
Lenses/groups: 8/6 + 1 protective filter (1 aspherical surface)
Optical design: Floating element focusing*
Image angle (diagonal,
horizontal, vertical): approx. 42?, 35,5?, 24?, approx. corresponds to 56 mm
in 35 mm-format
Aperture range: 2.5 to 22
Shortest distance: 0.5 m
Largest image scale: 1:4.7
Filter thread size: 82 mm
*during focusing the relative position of two lens elements changes compared to the rest of the optical system
Technical data LEICA APO-TELE-ELMAR-S 180 mm f/3.5 (CS)
Lenses/groups: 9/7
Optical design: Internal focusing
Image angle (diagonal,
horizontal, vertical): approx. 17?, 14?, 9.5?, approx. corresponds to 144 mm
in 35 mm-format
Aperture range: 3.5 to 32
Shortest distance: 1.5 m
Largest image scale: 1:7
Filter thread size: 72 mm
Dimensions
(diameter/length): 88 mm/151 mm
Weight: 1150 g (CS: 1300 g )
Overview of service packages for S2 body and S2 lenses
Service package/
Type of service Warranty Premium package Platinum package
Validity (validity always
commences with date
of purchasing S product: 12 months 24 months 24 months
1-year extension of
warranty: yes yes
Dedicated Leica
service helpline: yes yes yes
Product replacement within the
first 3 months after purchase
of new product: yes yes
Replacement parts
stocked 6 years: yes yes yes
30% repair discount: yes yes
Replacement unit free of charge
for duration of repair (24 hrs): yes
Free maintenance (including one
shutter replacement): yes
For more information, further details and our terms and conditions pertaining to individual service package offers as well as a list of authorized dealers and national Leica organizations, please go to www.s.leica-camera.com.
New online portal for Leica S photographers
In collaboration with Leica Camera AG, Solms, LFI Photographie GmbH presents a new online portal for the Leica S-System. On www.S-League.net, photographers can now find the ideal platform for presenting their work shot with the Leica S medium format system to a broad international audience. The website illustrates the wide range of applications covered by the Leica S-System. Alongside productions for advertising campaigns and editorial portfolios by prominent international photographers, visitors to the site can also catch up with the latest trends in commercial photography. An application for publishing work on www.S-League.net can be found in the ‘Apply & Take Part’ section. Leica S photographers can submit their latest campaigns and editorials here. In addition, the section also offers photographers an opportunity to apply for a free loan of Leica S equipment.