Leica Reveals the Q2, an Even More Perfect Travel Camera

0Share

Ever since Leica went digital, I don’t think it has made a camera that embodied the company’s design ethos better than the Q series—now significantly upgraded, in the just-announced Q2. Portable full-frame imaging with a fast, prime lens: that is what street and travel photographers have always loved about Leica cameras, and the Q2 is a contemporary take that leverages the latest digital technologies to provide a comfortable, modern experience. 

Leica’s imaging system delivers some of the best image quality you can find anywhere. The Q2 doubles down on this by changing out its most critical digital component: the image sensor. This model offers nearly double the resolution of its predecessor, and the recent Q-P, thanks to a newly developed 47.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor that is matched brilliantly with the fixed Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH. Lens. Taking advantage of the optics’ quality, the Q2 makes even better use of it by offering crop modes for 35mm at 30MP, 50mm at 15MP, and a new 75mm option at 7MP.

Maintaining a very similar, streamlined look as prior versions, the Q2 does offer a huge advantage over them: weather sealing. Being fully weather sealed—IP52-certified at that— should make photographers much more confident when shooting in less-than-ideal environments. Another tweak is the use of the BP-SCL4 Battery Pack, first found in the SL, giving a 30% improvement in battery life. Being a “Made in Germany” Leica camera, design is crucial; therefore, there have been refinements to controls and handling. A thumb rest and diamond-patterned leather trim make it easy to hold while the single-stage On/Off switch and three-button interface are fast and intuitive to operate. New is a push-button diopter compensation dial that locks to prevent accidental changes during shooting. On top of this, the 3.68MP OLED EVF has improved performance for a clearer view and faster auto-switching between the LCD.

You’d be forgiven for thinking this was solely a stills camera, especially since some other hallmark features are a faster autofocus system and 10 fps shooting, brought to you by the Maestro II Image Processor. Amazingly, Leica fit UHD and DCI (Cine) 4K shooting into the camera, at 24 fps. It also has Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for connecting to your mobile devices, in conjunction with the Leica FOTOS app. This truly makes it a perfect travel camera, because you can take only the Q2 and a smartphone and immediately start sharing images across all social media.

Hold on a sec before you go—we haven’t gotten to the classic Leica accessories. Leica puts just as much thought and care into the design of the accessories as it does its cameras and lenses. With the Q2, we are getting returning favorites in the Q2 Carrying Strap and Q2 Holster—both prime carrying options—as well as the Q2 Handgrip and Q2 Thumb Support for better shooting ergonomics. Additionally, there is the Q2 Protector Case and a stylish Ettas Pouch, for even more protection and comfort.

How can you not love a camera that looks amazing and can help capture stunning photos and video? Is the Q2 your ideal travel companion? What do you think about these upgrades? I know I’m impressed. Make sure to leave a comment with your thoughts below!

0 Comments