@photonewspn | photographynews.co.uk
GEAR / 47
The new SL3 rewards a more traditional approach with thoughtful composition and careful set-up, not fast reactions
latest firmware, subject tracking is more consistent and less prone to hunting, particularly in predictable scenarios. For portraits, travel, street photography and general shooting, it performs very well. However, compared to the best models from Sony or Canon, it still falls short in any high-speed, unpredictable situations. If your work depends on capturing fast action with a maximum hit rate, there are better tools available. What has changed is usability. Where many early users described the AF as frustrating, it’s now very reliable, once you’ve learnt how to use it. The new SL3 rewards a traditional approach
at landscapes thanks to its resolution and dynamic range, portraits because of its superb colour and tonal rendering – as well as studio or commercial work since it feels perfectly at home in more controlled environments. It is also very capable for documentary and events shooting, but less suited to wildlife and sports where it would have to handle unpredictable action at speed. Generally, though, it feels much more usable across a wider range of scenarios now than it did at launch. Another strength is its fast- evolving lens ecosystem, due to the L-Mount Alliance. Leica’s own lenses are exceptional – particularly the APO series, which delivers stunning sharpness and rendering. But they are also large and expensive. The real flexibility comes from Sigma and Panasonic, both of which offer a wide range of lenses at more accessible prices. From long telephotos to compact primes, you can curate a system that suits your needs without being locked into Leica-only glass. And there are lots of other available options from indie brands to give you more choice. This versatility makes the SL3 far more practical than Leica systems used to be. The SL3’s video specifications are very impressive, with 8K recording up to 30fps and 4K up to 60p, with 10-bit colour depth and ProRes support in HD. The firmware adds anamorphic de-squeeze, too. Also, in controlled environments, it produces beautiful footage with outstanding colour and excellent stabilisation. However, there is a sensor crop in many modes, rolling shutter raises its head in high-resolution formats and the demands on the battery are high. For hybrid shooters, it’s a very useful tool. But for dedicated video work, there are better options.
Verdict The Leica SL3 hasn’t fundamentally changed since launch but has grown into itself. What’s improved most is how it feels to use. Firmware 4.0 doesn’t transform it into an entirely different camera but simply removes some of the friction that was holding it back, and adds nice features such as Frame.io Camera to Cloud workflow. The autofocus is more usable, the responsiveness is better and the overall experience is smoother. Together, that allows its strengths to shine through more clearly. It is designed around image quality and experience for photographers who value control over automation. Features 22/25 Decent image stabilisation, solid autofocus and video from a great sensor Handling 22/25 It’s stripped-back – which some may like – but it does slow in-the-field changes Performance 23/25 Beautiful images with natural colours and detail in shadows and highlights Value for money 20/25 It’s priced high for its spec. You are paying for the Leica name and high- quality engineering Overall rating 87/100 Not the most advanced spec but it encourages you to slow down and focus on the image Pros Legendary name, stunning image quality in stills and video Cons No speedy stacked sensor, heavier and pricier than rivals
with thoughtful composition and careful set-up, not fast reactions to unpredictable movement. Treat it like a DSLR from a few years ago rather than a contemporary AI-driven system, and it starts to make more sense. Where it shines The SL3 finds its natural home in certain types of photography, excelling
STREET SMART Image quality is amazing, and the upgraded AF works well for grab shots, ideal for street work and candids
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