Introducing its first instant film camera, Leica has released the Sofort: a distinctly Leica-esque camera built for fun, ease of use, and creating shareable prints on the spot. The unique design of the camera utilizes instax mini-format film, and the colorful squared profile of the camera incorporates a 0.37x-magnification optical viewfinder and an Automatik-Hektor 60mm f/12.7 lens, which provides a 34mm equivalent focal length for a standard wide-angle perspective. The lens’s design permits zone focusing in three ranges, down to 11.8", via a lens ring, and the standard Program shooting mode allows for +/-0.7 EV exposure compensation and flash mode control, including a second curtain setting for more natural results. The camera is powered by a rechargeable Li-ion battery pack that provides up to 100 shots on a single charge. For more creative shooting, there are also dedicated Self-Portrait, People & Party, Action & Sport, Bulb, Macro, Self Timer, and Double Exposure modes. Complementing its playful intentions, the Leica Sofort is available in mint, orange, and white.
In addition to the camera itself, Leica is also releasing a slew of accessories, including its own Sofort Color Film and Sofort Monochrom Film, which both feature distinct warm-white-colored borders to provide a classic appearance for each image. Additionally, you can deck out your camera with protective brown or black cases, or matching white, mint, or orange neck straps. And for the Sofort enthusiast, a postcard set, photo album, box set, and photo presenter are all also available to highlight Leica’s entrance into instant film photography.
2 Comments
Only disadvantage seems to be that it's a lot more expensive than similar Fuji or Lomography products (although if it offered a format comparable to Fuji or Lomo'Instant Wide I would consider it). Still, great to see more creativity in instant film products.
Very, very cool. Can't wait to get this! GO FILM!