Features

• 5.0 megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create photo-quality prints up to 11 x 17
• 3.2x optical zoom and 3x digital zoom (9.6x total)
• Classic SLR setting ring controls on lens and shutter speed dial; 2.5-inch LCD
• Compatible with Secure Digital (SD) and MultiMedia (MMC) memory cards; 64 MB SD card included
• Powered by rechargeable lithium-ion battery; connects to PCs and Macs via USB 2.0

Reviews (8)

A Strong Reason For Going Digital
as a 'dyed-in-the-wool' traditional film camera enthusiast (and having owned and used nikon, leica, canon and olympus slrs and view finders), i strongly resisted for the longest time 'going digital'...that is to say, until the leica digilux2 came along...

i am now a confirmed digital convert, and can say that the quality of images rendered from the digilux2, when compared to the photos rendered from my film cameras and in the absence of investing in my own film processing studio, will make the new leica a preferred choice for many years to come, and notwithstanding the 5 megapixel sensoring....

I love this camera
Sure, the Nikon 5400 is capable of similar pictures, at least in ideal situations, if you have the time to fight your way through its menus. But what makes the Leica d-2 the best camera currently available is its ease of use, the brilliant design of every knob and lever. Whatever you want to do, this camera can do it, simply, logically, and quickly. Bottom line: if you're rich, this is the best camera available. If you're poor, other digital cameras offer similar performance for a third the price if you're willing to deal with their confused, convoluted, time-consuming menus and controls.

Luddites go home . . .
To the person that mentioned the Leica Digilux 2 will be obsolete in 2 years, I'm sure many luddites don't like digital photography. Get used to it as it's here to stay. The Leica Digilux 2, and its sister Panasonic Lumix DMC LC-1, are the best digital rangefinder cameras, I think. I like the fact that it has both a fully automatic position or an immediate manual setting. As for price, buy the Panasonic considering it's identical (Leica Digilux 2 was developed in conjunction with Panasonic). I've seen the Panasonic as low as $1200. Either way, both are fantastic!

Traditional Design in the Digital Age
AESTHETICS: The Leica Digilux 2 can be described as a modern "retro" design. The body style is a direct descendant of the M6 and those before it. The body looks huge. It is about 33% larger than an M6, but this isn't readily apparent until you set it next to any Leica M chassis. There is a gaudy overabundance of faux chrome in the back. This is the least appealing part of the camera, because of the chrome finish that surrounds and accentuates the presence of the LCD monitor. I would have preferred a more predominant use of either a black finish or the faux leather. The rubber around the eyepiece is bulbous, but acceptable. Overall, it is a handsome camera.

ERGONOMICS: What sold me are the traditional manual adjustments: The focusing ring, the aperture ring, zoom adjustment, and shutter speed dial are so much more workable in the field. You do not have to take your eye away from the viewfinder like you would with touch pads and four-way rocker switches. Leave that for reviewing the recorded images. The box construction has the familiar feel of an M body, but weighs less. The "grippy" black rubber finish is handsome and remotely resembles leather. The flash has two positions: press halfway and it will set up for bounce flash. Press all the way down, and it will point directly towards the subject.

PRACTICALITIES: At the average price of about $1850 U.S. dollars, one would have to factor in the name. But also figure in the build quality. There is the magnesium body, real metal hinges on the doors (which are designed beautifully), traditional aperture ring, manual & auto focusing, shutter speed dial, superior image processing (for markedly lower noise levels than the competition), aspherical Summicron lens, larger than average lcd monitor; and a few more, but the general impression is that it's built well. The baseplate is bare, but there are three 1/8" diameter round rubber feet, and one round plastic foot that is molded out of the battery door itself. Attention to small details are what I like about the Leica. For example, the camera strap also comes with two leatherette scuff protectors that fit around the camera strap eyelets. And not only is a lens cap included, but a lens cap for the lens shade.

THE BOTTOM LINE: The photographs are the bottom line. The images and image quality are on par with the pro-level dslr's. There is a real Summicron aboard this camera, and of it, I rest assured. There are and will be cameras with higher pixel counts, but I've come to realize that if most of my photographs will be printed smaller than 11" x 14," then I am not lacking with the five megapixels. I've compared images side by side with images from my Olympus C8080, and the Digilux 2's images can almost qualify as 8 megapixel images!! This is not a point-and-shoot, as most would regard it as such. It can be set up for that if you wish, but the manual focusing, aperture and shutter adjustments make the D2 a capable tool for anybody who pursues photography seriously.

Buy a real M series please.
How long will this two grand camera last or be obsolete? 2 years tops. Buy an M6, M7 or MP for your two grand and you'll have something that lasts a lifetime. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The elegant Leica D-LUX initiates a new line in Leica's portfolio of digital cameras. As a constant companion it can capture the encounters and events in life and document them as in a visual diary. It has clearly arranged functions and is delightfully easy to use.

Optics and Resolution
Despite its miniscule size the D-Lux incorporates a 3.2 million effective-pixel CCD for clear printouts at up to 11x14 inches. It also uses a Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT f/2,8–4,9/5,8–17,4 mm ASPH lens with 7 elements in 6 groups and 3 aspherical surfaces (corresponds to 35 – 105 mm for 35 mm photography). Focal length is adjusted by zoom rocker switch conveniently located behind the shutter release. A 3x optical zoom can be combined with a 3x digital zoom for a total 9x zoom level. The white balance is fully automatic or can be manually adjusted to ISO 50/18°, 100/21°, 200/24° or 400/27°.

Storage and Transfer
The camera uses either SD or MMC cards and connects to a PC or Mac via a USB 2.0 connection. It also has an A/V output with 2.5 mm mini jack for image and sound transmission to TV/audio system/computer.

Movie Mode
Movies can be recorded at resolutions of up to 640x480 pixels in QuickTime format.

More Features
The styling of the new Leica D-LUX is deliberately reminiscent of the timeless shape of classic Leica reportage cameras. The metal body, made of aluminum, supports this look. Its fabrication is just as meticulous. Even details such as the mode dial as well as the two covers for the battery compartment, memory card and connectors are made of solid metal. The symbols on the mode dial – durably protected against wear – are engraved in the aluminum and filled-in with black paint. So, if at any time you don't have a good subject in sight, you still have a timeless object in your hands.

Other features include:

• White balance presets for daylight, cloud, halogen lighting or manual setting
• Four subject-related automatic programs for close-up, portraits, landscapes and twilight shots
• 1.5 inch LCD

Power and Size
A rechargeable 3.6-volt Li-ion battery powers the camera and is included in the package. The camera measures 4 4/5 by 2 by 1 2/5 inches and weighs seven ounces (without the battery). ... Read more

Features

• 3-megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create photo-quality 8 x 10 prints and medium-quality prints up to 11 x 14
• 3x optical plus 3x digital zoom (9x total)
• Compact size, aluminum body, classic look
• Includes 64 MB Secure Digital card; also compatible with MMC cards
• Powered by rechargeable lithium-ion battery; connects to PCs and Macs via USB 2.0

Reviews (1)

The iPod of P&S Pocket Digital Cameras.
Can you get more digital camera for $750? Absolutely. Much in the same way you can get more GB/$ from some MP3 players than you can from an iPod. But try to "outcool" it, and you'll fail. Same situation here.

This is the ultimate stylish pocket-size point-and-shoot camera. It's retro. It's timeless and it's a Leica. Cool factor aside, Lecia is second only to Hasselblad in reputation in the world of photography and it wouldn't let a dog out of its shop. The quality of the photos from this pocket rocket are tremendous.

Note that this camera is not purely Leica. It is the result of a collaboration with Panasonic which provides the electronics. But the lens, arguably the most important component, is a Leica. Panasonic makes essentially the same camera but in a cheap plastic at about half the price. That takes excellent shots as well.

At 3MP, it's starting to show its age from a technology standpoint, but this isn't the camera you'd use to shoot anything for printing larger than 8x10 anyway. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Leica Minilux Zoom offers the fastest zoom lens ever put on acompact Leica--the Vario-Elmar 35-70mm zoom lens. Housed in a body of high-gradetitanium, this is one of the most versatile and deluxe compact 35mm cameras evermade. Another feature that makes the Minilux Zoom stand out is a hot shoe mountfor the Leica CF flash unit (sold separately) in addition to the built-in flash.This allows you to reduce red-eye and light up objects from a greaterdistance.

The Minilux Zoom also offers an active infrared autofocus or manualfocusing from about 28 inches to infinity. The exposure metering system iscenter-weighted for extremely accurate exposures. Other outstanding featuresinclude a self-timer with 10-second countdown indicated by a flashing red light,tripod thread, data back for date imprinting, and an exposure value memoryfunction which allows you to calculate your exposure from an object that is notin the center of your picture frame. The Minilux Zoom also has a number ofexposure and focus settings that allow for a great deal of creative control. Itcan even be set to start out on your preferred mode every time you turn on thecamera.

About Leica
Seventy-five years ago, the first Leica camerawas introduced to the public at the 1925 Leipzig Spring Fair. At the time, itwas by far the most innovative 35mm camera ever produced (as well as one of thevery first). Since then, no camera in the world has been more widely acclaimedfor continuously meeting the highest standards of excellence in both opticalprecision and design quality. Notably, many internationally acclaimedphotographers such as Henri Cartier-Bresson and Sebastião Salgado haveused Leica cameras throughout their careers. We think you'll find that Leicacompact cameras maintain the same integrity as the M and R models used by thepros, but at more affordable prices. The lenses in all Leica 35mm cameras arestill designed by the Leica optical department in Solms, Germany. Every compactcamera is also tested for quality in Germany before being released. When youchoose Leica, you are buying into one of the great traditions in the history ofphotography. ... Read more

Features

• Quality 35mm zoom compact camera with high-grade titanium body
• High-speed Leica Vario-Elmar 35-70mm zoom lens (f/3.5 to f/6.5)
• Fully automatic controls with additional manual settings
• Hot shoe for optional add-on flash unit, plus built-in flash
• Chosen Europe's Compact Camera of the Year 1998/99 by European Imaging and Sound Association (EISA)

Reviews (4)

Expensive but well worth it...
I'm going to make it very simple. Leica when it comes to cameras is like a Land Rover when it comes to jeeps. Of course you can buy a Cherokee or a Chevy Blazer but if you want reliability, quality and durability you would go for Land Rover. Same goes for Leica... If you are looking for strong, sharp, durable piece of equipment that will not fail you and has possibilities of being expanded, Minilux Zoom is the way to go. You have to realize before purchase that this camera has a relatively short zoom by industry standard (only 2x). Lens is not as fast aperture wise as original Minilux. But the quality of optics and output is superior to many cameras and comparable only to Contax T series. This camera is not for everyone due to the price and some features that are fairly limited for regular/average user. On the other hand for a pro, serious amateur or journalist Minilux Zoom offers features (manual focusing, exposure compensation and full flash control) that they would truly appreciate. Having control over their exposure in such a small package without compromising the image quality is quite rare to get. Anyone who had to drag/carry his/her SLR (single lens reflex) cameras will understand and cherish the value of this piece. Also in order to fully benefit from this camera a basic knowledge and understanding of photography principles is very helpful. Also additional possibilities such as mounting extra flash, bulb mode and cable release makes it an all around camera as well.

IT IS THE LENS!!
I have owned both the Minilux and the Minilux Zoom ; I have since resold the Minilux Zoom. The lens is simply too slow compared with the less expensive Minilux which uses a fast (bright) 40mm lens which is much closer to what the eye sees (50mm).I worked for the National Film Board of Canada,I have used many cameras but when I travel I bring only the Minilux because it takes incredible pictures even in the worst low light conditions and even without the flash; I use inside churches and museums with the flash turned off. A zoom this size is simply too slow to be useful, 3 steps forward or three steps back will produce the same result with the Minilux and you will be able to take incredible pictures in those low light conditions. Save your money, buy the Minilux. It's the lens that counts.

Superp
Yes, it is an excellemt one . buT gotta learn and experiience how to use it for better result eg. yr hand must be quite steady when shoot. But the result is more than I can say! If money is no object , should get one.

Terrific Quality Compact
The only realistic competition for the Leica Minilux zoom is the Contax. For a bit more money, that has an equal or better lens and is smaller. But, it also fits hands and fingers less well and has somewhat more complex mechanics (since Contax decided to add an automatic lens cover--convenient, but a likely maintenance problem). The Leica Minilux gives one the confidence of quality construction and an attractive, slightly retro, design. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

With classic elements of design, operating convenience, and technical advancements, the Leica Digilux 1 digital camera shares the outstanding optical quality, speed, and mobility of the original Leica 1 film camera from 1925. The Digilux 1 is made for the 21st century, with a 4-megapixel CCD sensor, high-speed aspherical Leica lens with 3x optical zoom, and a large 2.5-inch LCD for reviewing your photos.

Optics and Resolution
Because outstanding image quality can only be achieved through the optimal interplay of all components, the lens was tailored specifically to the 4-megapixel sensor in order to make full use of the optical and electronic capabilities. The Digilux 1 features a Leica DC Vario-Summicron 3x aspherical zoom lens with a range of focal lengths from 7-21mm, corresponding to a zoom range of 33-100mm on analog 35mm cameras. The speed of the lens is f2 to f2.5.

The Digilux 1 offers five alternatives for exposure control: fully automatic mode, programmed automatic mode, aperture priority, speed priority, and a setting for manual mode. It's also equipped with a ring for manual focusing so that you can get the best results from close-ups.

Camera Display
The 2.5-inch LCD screen on the back of the Digilux 1 is 50 to 90 percent larger than those on comparable cameras. Its size is ideal for meticulous picture evaluation and its 205,000 resolution makes manual focusing much easier. The attachable monitor hood makes good picture evaluation possible even in daylight. The Digilux 1 also features an optical viewfinder with diopter compensation.

Camera Speed
On many digital cameras, there are delays between the switching on of the camera and its readiness to shoot, as well as between the activation of the shutter release and the actual exposure. The Digilux 1 has been optimized for speed, enabling you to photograph spontaneously and be ready to shoot continuously. You can also make exposure sequences of up to eight pictures at a rate of approximately four exposures per second.

Movie Mode
Video sequences are recorded in the Apple QuickTime format in a size of 320 x 240 pixels. The length of the video recordings is limited only by the capacity of the memory card. With the 64 MB Secure Digital card that is supplied with the camera, the video recording time lasts for approximately six minutes.

Storage and Transfer
The 64 MB SD card can store 32 images with the highest resolution and lowest compression or up to 484 pictures with low resolution at the highest compression.

Power
The Digilux 1 features a powerful rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The included AC adapter/battery charger can charge the Digilux 1 in about two hours. With the monitor display switched on, the Digilux 1 can be operated for approximately two hours, or for approximately three hours with the monitor display turned off.

Size
The Digilux 1 measures 5 by 2.25 by 2.6 inches and weighs 16 ounces with battery.

Contents
This package comprises the Digilux 1 digital camera, a 64 MB Secure Digital card, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, a hood for the LCD, AV and USB cables, a carrying strap, Adobe Photoshop Elements 1.0, and USB drivers for Windows and Mac. ... Read more

Features

• 3.9-megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create prints up to 11 x 14 and beyond to poster size
• 3x optical zoom with autofocus
• Stores photos on 64 MB Secure Digital card--up to 32 images at high resolution
• Connects to PCs via USB port
• Powered by rechargeable lithium-ion battery

Reviews (14)

I Leic it!
This camera has exceeded my expectations of what any digital camera should be. I was fearful during the purchasing process because I read "pro" reviews for this camera that were not favorable. They complained about severe noise at ISO 200 & 400. Luckily, I do not use these settings very often, I use a tripod and long exposures for low-light situations if I have to.

The real test occured when I held this camera for the first time--wonderful! My favorite physical qualities of this piece of art are the well-placed levers (yes I said levers, much like a Leica M), manual focus/settings and magnesium housing. The large display is very useful. I've gotten many + comments about the camera's superb design.

More important than physical prowess though, OPTICS. This is what sets the Digilux apart from its competitors. Fast and clear, enough said.

One last note, I bought the optional Filter Adapter at a local camera shop... Ohhh, what I'm willing to pay for Leica quality. With the adapter screwed on, the lense cap does not fit. This is a minor detail because filters offer protection and you can get an aftermarket cap that fits. Soon I will add accessories (wide-angle lense, more filters) to increase the camera's photo possibilities.

It's truly first class.

After a year of use ...
OK, I admit that I am a sucker for the Leica name, but hey, it has meant quality and incredible optics for a very long time, so I had little difficulty choosing this camera last year when I decided to finally go digital. After one year of use, I have nothing but praise for this camera. Although I pine a bit for the Digilux 2, I am not ready to trade my Digilux 1 in and pay the premium. As a digital rangefinder, with excellent automatic and manual aspects, I have been able to satisfy both sides of my hobby: the snapshot photographer and the advanced hobbiest artist. The pictures I produce using this camera are stunning; the colors dense and true, and their ability to be manipulated in Photoshop a breeze. I highly recommend this camera to anyone considering it ... at this price, you're getting a bargain!

Love isn't all
I love my Leica. It is rock solid and it takes nice pictures. It is true that there are some noise problems in iso 200 and 400, but hey then I just use iso 100 for indoor shots. That requires longer opening times and can give blurry pictures, but usually I just set it to take 4 or 8 pictures at a time and then at least one of them is usually ok. Should I buy again I would probably go for Canon Digital Rebel which is almost in the same pricerange.

Fantastic Pictures are the reason.
The true measure of this camera is the quality of the pictures it produces. Here's my take on the reasons this camera takes such stunning shots (and is worth the cost):

1. Button speed. You will actually capture the moment you are looking for with this camera. Most digital cameras take bland pictures because, well, what they are taking a picture of is not interesting and the moment has passed. With this camera your eye will tell you when the picture is right, and blam! You'll have it captured.

2. Lens quality. The blacks are blacker, the whites are whiter, the colors are richer. Things are sharper. Nobody can deny Leica produces top-quality lenses.

3. Feel good controls. The camera body is Magnesium and feels fantastic. With it in your hands, it has a tendancy to outclass it's wearer, like a suit that's a bit too expensive for the occasion. An interesting thing happens, you will try to take better pictures. Don't underestimate this effect. Due to the excellent simplicity of the controls, when you do try to become an expert, you actualy can because the camera doesn't get in the way or make you squint endlessly at onscreen menus to change settings.

These are three very simple things that combine to make a very unique camera. I don't believe you'll find all of these things combined in any other digital camera.

Some have said there's a strange pattern or pixelation when zoomed WAY in on images on screen. Two responses:

1. You aren't going to spend any time zoomed in on pictures on your computer when looking at them in a normal manner. At display resolutions, these pictures are as clear or clearer than any from Canon, or Sony comparable models.

2. This *may* actually be intentional on Leica's part. If you print out a picture from this camera, it is always stunning, even at full size or larger. Some liken this to a stochastic (look it up) printing process. Whatever the case, find a print sample your self from this camera, there's no denying the overall effect more artistic and is a cut above simiar competitive brands.

I have had zero issues with this camera since ordering it from Amazon 8 months ago. My only complaint is that the Digilux 2 is even better...

YOU MAY HAVE BETTER OPTIONS FOR LESSER..
..if you aren't obstinately attached to the brand. Aesthetics apart ('big', 'boxy' come to mind) this is NOT the camera you should go for if you want anything beyond an ISO of about a 100 -- and this is not coming from a point-and-click amateur. Yes, the manual controls are charming but if alternative brands offer me a better device (primarily, better pics, i.e.) with a lighter price tag, I begin to question.

WHAT'S GOOD ABOUT THE DIGILUX:

(1) Very, very fast response times in its class. This alone could be a dream criterion for some of you.
(2) A spacious monitor on the cam, bigger than matching Olympus, Canon or Nikon offerings.
(3) The much vaunted manual controls, no need for reflex cams.
(4) The Summicron lens, which leads to good pictures if the only alternative you have owned is a Sony entry-level point and shoot. If you have ever worked with a Nikon D100 or a Canon G3 (or above) then the quality difference is minimally incremental.

WHAT'S NOT:

(1) The price tag. For me, just the name doesn't cut it.
(2) Sub-par battery life.
(3) .mov format for the movies? Why?
(4) Think about where you'll be getting your tech support. It's not very easy.
(5) The reference guide is a pain to comprehend.
(6) A lean 2x optiocal zoom, which is also a bit deceiving - the imaging chip is so small, you can almost NEVER achieve background blur for portraits, or any other form of professional photography.
(7) Where's the noise reduction that is so COMMON with other competitors?
(8) A hood for the lens would've been nice.
(9) WB when using a flash is too bluish green.
(10) Ugly body (ok, this is subjective) -- almost seems tailor made for big German hands.
(11) Where's RAW?

SUMMARY:

I know a Leica when I see one. If you're looking for a digi version of the M6, this isn't it. I wonder why other reviewers would rate a product based on the halo of its overall brand. I'd wait for a revised version of this offering from Leica, their lens is worth the wait. Meanwhile, consider Nikon D100s (or even 5700) or Canon's EOS (or G5 etc) if you are in the market for a digital. ... Read more

Features

• 10 Times magnification
• 42mm (diameter) objective
• Leica HDC multi-layer coating offers increased resistance to scratches
• Weatherproof and Water-Resistant
• Sliding eyecups and diopter adjustment for eyeglass wearers

Features

• Aluminum body with automatic lens cover
• 28 ?80 mm f/3.6 ?7.9 LEICA VARIO-ELMAR ASPH Lens for nearly 3x zoom
• Real-image type zoom viewfinder
• Integrated multimode electronic-flash
• Active autofocus with range from 2-feet to infinity

Amazon.com Product Description

The Leica Minilux is a topnotch 35mm compact camera that boasts anextremely attractive and durable titanium housing combined with a high-speedSummarit 40mm lens. The Minilux is a little heavier than most compact cameras,and is intended for the serious-minded amateur photographer who insists on thevery best. It offers an aperture priority mode, allowing you to manually set theaperture before shooting your picture (the camera will automatically choose theshutter speed). The Minilux also features either automatic or manual focusing.The exposure meter is center-weighted for precise metering, and the built-inflash fires automatically in low light. This camera is guaranteed to net youimpressive results and last nearly a lifetime.

About Leica:
Seventy-five years ago, the first Leica camera was introduced to the public atthe 1925 Leipzig Spring Fair. At the time, it was by far the most innovative35mm camera ever produced (as well as one of the very first). Since then, nocamera in the world has been more widely acclaimed for continuously meeting thehighest standards of excellence in both optical precision and designquality.

Notably, many internationally acclaimed photographers such as HenriCartier-Bresson and Sebastião Salgado have used Leica cameras throughouttheir careers. We think you'll find that Leica compact cameras maintain the sameintegrity as the M and R models used by the pros, but at more affordable prices.The lenses in all Leica 35mm cameras are still designed by the Leica opticaldepartment in Solms, Germany. Every compact camera is also tested for quality inGermany before being released. When you choose Leica, you are buying into one ofthe great traditions in the history of photography. ... Read more

Features

• High-quality 35mm compact camera with handsome titanium body
• High-speed Leica Summarit 40mm lens (f/2.4)
• Automatic exposure or aperture priority (preselected aperture setting)
• Manual or automatic focusing from 28 inches to infinity
• Automatic lens protection cap

Reviews (14)

Absolutely 5 Stars
While most of the compact cameras are made of cheap looking plastic, Leica, among a few other manufacturers, made some beautiful looking compact cameras which are better made, more precise, more capable of quality results. A well-made and well thought-out camera is already a joy to use, please ignore those who said an Olympus Mju:II or Yashica T4 are better simply because they are cheaper and produce similar but still inferior results.

If you are considering a Minilux, you may like to compare it to Contax T3, Minolta TC-1, Rollei AFM 35 or Minox GT-E. They are all excellent cameras, however, I like the way Leica lenses handle contrast and color saturation, which is more neutral or natural, this is personal preference, of course.

The lens is sharp and fast; manual focus, program or aperture priority auto exposure are available; self timer, socket for cable release, EV compensation, built-in flash and different flash modes make the Minilux versatile; the Minilux is very capable in many situations.

Please don't complain it has no zoom or cannot do macro work or change lenses, no camera can have everything without some sacrifice in other qualities.

The Minilux is the best compact camera in my opinion.

can i give this camera six stars?
Other point and shoot cameras might look sleeker at first. They have more buttons you can press, and might have some special function that makes them especially desirable. (Rarely the ability to take great pictures though, it seems) The minilux follows a simple philosophy: create a camera does not look intrusive and takes the best pictures possible. Leicas have been the favorites of photographers worldwide, since Oskar Barnack decided that maybe taking pictures on 35mm film would make photography more portable and more spontaneous, thus inventing, the ur-leitz-camera, lei-ca. Documentary-style photography was born. Take a look at books with photographs by Henri Cartier-Bresson or Alfred Eisenstaedt. The most important part of ANY camera is the lens. The Leica Summarit 2.4/40 lens on the minilux is excellent. It is very fast (bright) 2.4(!) so you will find yourself taking more natural looking pictures without a flash more often. (Also remember: zoom lenses can never be as bright and as sharp as this lens.) The camera has a light meter built in, so before you shoot, you can find out what might be the appropriate settings for the particular light environment. It is up to you to decide if you would like to overwrite these settings by changing the aperture. (From 2.4! to 16) Measure again, and you will know if your new aperture setting makes sense. If it is too dark, the camera will automatically turn on the back lighting on the display and charge the flash for you. Just in case you would like to take a picture right away. The camera is full of great, very positive surprises. Even the holding strap has the perfect length, so you can shoot spontaneous, yet perfectly sharp snapshots right out of the palm of your hand. The active auto-focus works great under any light conditions. If you do not want to use the auto-focus, you can always overwrite it. The camera just takes great pictures.
This camera is a perfect gift, for yourself or for somebody you care about. It might change the way you see things. It might make you appreciate every day a little more. It worked for me. Really.

Excellent P&S Camera
This P&S Camera is truly exceptional. The camera and its titanium shell feel rock solid; the lens is top notch; and the image quality is excellent. Mind you, it will not replace your high end SLR, but if you want to travel light, and not compromise on image quality, then this is the camera for you.

Reliability
Initially there was a problem with the on/off switch which caused the shutter release to operate inconsistently. After repair by Leica the camera operates superbly. Lens is super sharp.

The Real McCoy
I own a Leica M6 rangefinder, a Nikon F-100 SLR, a Minox GT, "B" & "C" and the Leica Minilux. Overwhelmingly, I choose the Minilux to shoot with on a daily basis. I have taken this compact titanium camera all over the world and believe me, the picture resoloution is as close to the M6 as you can get. The convenience of the Minilux and the ease of operating the camera allows for optimal creative freedom! Concentrating on your composition instead of f-stops and shutter speeds is a joy. The extremely fast lens allows you to shoot in the most demanding low-light situations. No matter the setting, you can be sure that the exposure will be handeled instantly and perfectly as soon as the shutter button is pressed...and the photo will be crisp and sharp with vibrant detail. The Minilux is beauty, grace and perfection all rolled into one very cool looking compact camera. But hey, it's a Leica and that alone speaks volumes for the quality and design of this little marvel!!! The Minilux is a big camera in a little body that will be prized for it's convenience, excellence, and ruggedness for a lifetime of photography. Obviously, I love my Minilux and I love it more every time I have another roll of film developed. Shoot with a Minilux and be amazed at how your everyday "snap-shots" become frameable treasured memories...BT ... Read more

Features

• Brilliant real-image viewfinder with detailed LED display make composition and controlling photographic parameters easy!
• 40mm f/2.4 LEICA SUMMARIT lens (6 elements in 4 groups) with multi-layer coating
• Passive phase-detecting autofocus
• Exposure override from -2 EV to +2 EV in 1/3 EV steps
• Autofocus and manual focus

Reviews (1)

The ultimate in 35mm point & shoot cameras!
Of course it is the ultimate, it is well made by Leica, in Germany. I found the camera to be solid and easy to use. Read the extensivly detailed manual (in three languages, including english) to discover the many features and flexibility of this work of art and design. My cloud and indoor pictures have turned out exceptionally sharp with an (almost) idiot-proof metering and auto/manual focusing system. Since I wear glasses, the adjustable diopter in the viewfinder has helped me a great deal. The on body flash is powerful, and an excellent computer integrated accessory flash is available (Leica SF 24 D). The camera's large LCD data screen makes reading your adjustments easy. I have taken a lot of pictures in my lifetime of 68 years, with a lot of different makes and types of cameras and films. All camera systems are the result of a lot of compromises, and this one is something to dream for. Even with the advent of of the digital cameras, This film camera is exceptional! It was worth every cent I paid for it and the flash. ... Read more

Features

• Manual Rangefinder Focus - You're in full control. By aligning lines in the viewfinder you can achieve the optimal focus range
• Body Only. Lens is not included
• Accepts a variety of Leica M-Series Lrnses
• Extremely quiet shutter release facilitates unobtrusive photography in sensitive situations
• Exact exposure metering

Features

• Extremely compact design using lens elements with high refractive indices and low dispersion values
• Uniform, neutral color rendition accurately reproduces natural colors as they appear visually
• Exceptional reduction of glare due to special Leica multiple coating of its precise optics
• Built to provide long service even in critically demanding, everyday professional use
• Delivers smooth focusing control thanks to the mechanical precision of the metal helical focusing mounts of Leica cameras

Features

• Optical system -2 elements in 2 groups
• Viewfinder magnification -1.25x
• For all Leica M-cameras including the M6
• Made of black anodized aluminum, chain with snap-locks made of brass in black chrome finish

Features

• Extremely compact design using lens elements with high refractive indices and low dispersion values
• Uniform, neutral color rendition accurately reproduces natural colors as they appear visually
• Exceptional reduction of glare due to special Leica multiple coating of its precise optics
• Built to provide long service even in critically demanding, everyday professional use
• Delivers smooth focusing control thanks to the mechanical precision of the metal helical focusing mounts of Leica cameras

Features

• Extremely compact design using lens elements with high refractive indices and low dispersion values
• Uniform, neutral color rendition accurately reproduces natural colors as they appear visually
• Exceptional reduction of glare due to special Leica multiple coating of its precise optics
• Built to provide long service even in critically demanding, everyday professional use
• Delivers smooth focusing control thanks to the mechanical precision of the metal helical focusing mounts of Leica cameras

Features

• Switch-over magnification from 8x42 to 12x42
• High-performance optics for bright, high-contrast images under all lighting conditions
• HDC multilayer coating achieves maximum light transmission with high scratch-resistance
• ADC Automatic diopter compensationwhen the magnification is switched
• Roof prism system with slim design

Reviews (1)

Top Notch
After using the lecia 10x25bca's while birdwatching in Central America I decided to move up a notch and try the duovid's. After seeing guides use the russian optics I was hesitate to purchase these. But what a difference!!!! These are as bright as any bino's I've used. The quality is top notch. The engineering is very user friendly. A bit heavy compared to the 10X25's but you get two magnification's for the price of one. Great for use at low light situations (dawn till dusk). The manual suggests WATERPROOF to 8 meters but swimming with the Duovid's is not of my list of things to do. ... Read more

Features

• Outstandingly easy to use because of its compact ergonomic shape
• Removable rotating sleeves with two click stops
• Newly designed multi-function central drive with integrated diopter compensation
• Impact resistant
• Watertight to a depth of 5m (16.4 ft)