If it wasnt cool, it didnt get covered.
Thus the coverage was inherently positive, as anything negative just didnt make The List.
So when I see a strikingly beautiful camera like the new Leica SL, I get excited.
It appears at first glance to meet my passion for cool and my profession of photography.
In the case of the Leica SL, however, it all ends right there.
Its an outdated/overpriced punch line that serious photographers wont be laughing at.
The opportunity cost and the technical firepower available elsewhere render this a complete non-starter.
That is, unless youve got a nice collection of Leica lenses and a lot more money to burn.
Personally, I have neither.
Sony is currently leading the mirrorless segment, and it just hasnt had a serious direct competitor yet.
With the arrival of the Leica SL, you could argue that Sony still doesnt have a serious competitor.
It shoots 4K video at 24 or 30 frames per second.
It also includes an advanced electronic viewfinder plus a touchscreen display.
Lets review that point-by-point:
The one major failing of the Leica SL is its price.
The above issues wouldnt be so glaring if this camera were offered at a market rate.
If this were a $2,500 camera, itd be worth seriously considering.
Instead, Leica issaid to be asking$7,450 for the body and $4,950 for a kit lens.
Thats a $12,400 price tag just to get started.
You might even have money left over for a nice photographic vacation.
It leads me to believe that only a very specific key in of photographer would consider this one.
Leica, I feel bad being so negative about your new product.
The thing is, it doesnt look like youre innovating at all.
Youve produced the status quo of 2013 and priced it higher than the sticker price of an economy car.
Most of us photographers drive economy cars so we can afford the hefty investment in pro gear.
[Leica SL]
Leica SL Mirrorless Full Frame Digital Camera | Gallery
