Providing a fully mechanical film photography experience with a fast wide-angle lens, the Leica MP 0.72 Rangefinder Camera with 35mm f/1.4 Lens Kit from B&H combines the reliable analog rangefinder with a Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 ASPH. prime lens.
With the name MP 0.72, this Leica rangefinder camera joins the line of reporter cameras that have been tailored specifically to the wishes of professional photographers. It is the purely mechanical alternative to the Leica M7, whose electronically controlled shutter and aperture priority automatic exposure control offer more convenience and functions.
The camera concept of the Leica MP is tailored to the craft of the photographer! Every component of the camera was analyzed and improved meticulously, and it embodies the essence of more than 50 years of experience in optics and mechanical design. The optimized rangefinder facilitates highly accurate focusing, even under difficult light conditions.
The MP is a 100% mechanical camera, the battery being necessary only to operate its internal light meter. All its operating elements are made of metal, so that it withstands heavy duty use under extreme conditions. Technical gadgetry is purposely limited to those features that truly contribute towards creating a better picture.
One of the most versatile lenses for M-mount rangefinders, the Leica Summilux-M 35mm f/1.4 ASPH. is a general wide-angle lens characterized by its sophisticated optics and bright f/1.4 maximum aperture. This lens is well suited for available light photography and affords outstanding control over depth of field for selective focus shooting techniques.
The lens features a newly engineered double cam unit that decreases the minimum focusing distance to just 1.3', enabling dynamic close-up imagery. Additionally, the lens has been upgraded with eleven aperture blades from the original nine for visibly improved bokeh performance. The optical design incorporates one aspherical element to control spherical aberrations and distortion for improved sharpness and clarity, and a floating elements system is used to maintain performance throughout the focusing range. A newly designed pull-out lens hood has also been integrated into the front of the lens to minimize ghosting and flare by blocking out stray light.