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Photokina: another full-format mirrorless system

25.9.2018

Translation: machine translated

Leica, Sigma and Panasonic announced their collaboration at a special press day prior to Photokina. In future, they will all be using the L-mount for full-frame mirrorless cameras. Panasonic is already working on two cameras.

The Photokina doors aren't open yet, but on the media day Leica, Sigma and Panasonic have already hit the ground running. With the announcement of the L-mount system, there are now three new full-frame mirrorless systems in the running, whereas previously there was only Sony's. OK, strictly speaking, the L-mount already existed, as it's Leica's mirrorless system. But Leica plays in a very exclusive price range. The cooperation with Sigma and Panasonic will allow the system to become more widespread.

New Lumix series

Panasonic announces the launch of the Lumix S camera series for spring 2019. Initially, customers will have a choice of two bodies. The Panasonic Lumix S1R is, by all accounts, a camera that meets the highest photographic standards. It boasts 47 megapixels, in-camera image stabilisation, a second screen, a robust, dust-proof body and a double lens.It also has a dual slot for XQD and SD cards (it's not clear whether these are two slots or a combined slot, as with the Nikon Z. We'll clarify). There will also be the Lumix S1 with 24 megapixels. This is also supposed to be aimed at video producers. Both models offer 4K and 60p video.

For launch, there are three Panasonic lenses with focal lengths of 50mm, 24-105mm and 70-200mm. The 50mm lens has a brightness of f/1.4, no concrete specifications have been given for the other two models. Panasonic is talking about launching ten lenses for the L-mount in the next twelve months, i.e. until spring 2020.

Panasonic will continue to market its Micro Four Thirds system, which has already been around for ten years.

Leica and Sigma

Leica points out that the L-mount system also works with smaller APS-C sensors. This doesn't matter to Panasonic, as it's too similar to Micro Four Thirds. Leica offers the TL2 and CL cameras, two relatively compact APS-C models. The CL, which until now has only been available in black, now also comes in silver.

Cameras

Leica TL2 Body

24.30 Mpx, APS-C / DX

Cameras

Leica CL Body

24.32 Mpx, APS-C / DX

Sigma will ensure that the system offers a comprehensive selection of lenses within a reasonable timeframe. That said, the manufacturer has not yet given any product information. Sigma has developed a number of lenses designed specifically for videographers, the Cine. If something like this comes out for the L-mount, the system will become very interesting for professional video producers.

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David Lee

Senior Editor

David.Lee@digitecgalaxus.ch

My interest in IT and writing landed me in tech journalism early on (2000). I want to know how we can use technology without being used. Outside of the office, I’m a keen musician who makes up for lacking talent with excessive enthusiasm.

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