Leica SL3-S: Faster than Ever
The Leica SL3-S Mirrorless Camera arrives with a bundle of features that continue to prove the brand's Midas touch. At the core of this release is the hybrid autofocus system and its 24 MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor, which supports continuous shooting at up to 30 frames per second with full autofocus, making it the fastest Leica ever built. The video capabilities are equally impressive, providing unlimited 6K Open Gate internal recording while utilizing the full size of the sensor in its native 3:2 aspect ratio. Securely protected by an IP54-certified solid all-metal body and credentials technology in accordance with the Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI), the SL3-S covers all bases.
24MP Full-Frame BSI CMOS Sensor and Maestro IV Processor
Spearheading this launch is the 24MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor with fast PDAF. When combined with the Maestro IV processor and 8GB of buffer memory it provides exceptional low-light performance and incredible color output at a file size ideal for sharing, making the SL3-S a powerful asset for a diverse amount of shooting situations. This system allows for DNG and JPEG format at 24MP and handheld multishot modes at 48 and 96MP.
Advanced Autofocus System
The SL3-S sensor boasts 779 autofocus points, which is three times more than the SL-2S and over two times more than the SL3. The combination of Contrast Detection AF and the 779-point phase-detection system affords quicker, more intelligent object detection and tracking for working with moving subjects, especially when shooting continuously up to 30 fps. Tracking, in general, has never been easier for Leica users.
Video Capabilities
Unlimited 6K Open Gate Internal Recording
This system's video capabilities were meant to match its photo counterpart, with unlimited 6K Open Gate internal recording the user gains new creative possibilities when it comes to postproduction while using the full size of the sensor in its native 3:2 ratio. Additionally, this upgrade offers:
- Re-Framing Flexibility: Allows cropping and adjusting framing without losing quality.
- Better for Visual Effects: More image data aids in tasks like stabilization, tracking, and applying visual effects.
- Allows usage of anamorphic lenses on an SL3-S without loss of image information.
- Creative Aspect Ratios: Provides the option to experiment with different aspect ratios, like 4:3 or 3:2, giving more creative control.
External Recording and Additional Video Features
5.9K RAW external recording provides the best post-production flexibility, offering malleable files with incredible dynamic range and color grading support. Additionally, you can now use larger storage options thanks to SSD recording via USB-C.
- Direct SSD recording via USB-C allows users to use larger storage options
- Records HDMI-Raw in 5.9K at 30 fps to external display recorders
- Upgraded Cine Mode specifically for professional video production
- Fast transmission rates for CFexpress type B are supported for video production in up to 6K quality with efficiency codecs and lauded L-Log color space
Professional Body Design
Image Stabilization and EyeRes Viewfinder
Complementing this camera's powerful sensor is a 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization IBIS system that provides up to 5 stops of shake reduction, allowing you to capture sharper handheld images. The SL3-S EyeRes viewfinder is equipped with an optical system of glass lenses display that clearly displays the subjects with up to 120 images per second and a resolution of 5.76m-dot.
Additional Body Features
- UX design adapts based on orientation of camera body
- Tiltable screen with enhanced touch and gesture control
- SD UHS II + CFexpress Type B
- HDMI 2.1 Type A
- Timecode Interface
- USB-C
- Direct to SSD Capturing
Leica Content Credentials
The SL3-S is the first camera in the SL system with Leica Content Credentials and dedicated CAI-compliant hardware. You can have each image signed with tamperproof metadata and receive access to verification tools that provide content, production, and editing process history.