SNAP!

Chris Dodkin

West Coast Correspondent
What do you get if you take a Panasonic Lumix FZ150 camera, and add a
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sticker and a new logo...

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Leica Camera AG - Photography - V-LUX 3

NEW: LEICA V-LUX 3

The versatile all-in-one camera for creative stills and video

Solms, Germany (December 8, 2011) - Leica Camera AG presents the Leica V-Lux 3, a new compact digital camera with an extensive range of features. The camera is extremely versatile, making it ideal for almost all photographic situations. For photographers shooting landscapes, architecture, sport, travel, portraits or wildlife, the V-Lux 3 incorporates an enormously flexible lens. The Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 4.5 - 108 mm f/2.8 - 5.2 ASPH. 24-fold super-telephoto zoom lens covers a wide range of focal lengths equivalent to 25–600 mm in 35 mm format. The newly developed 12.1-megapixel CMOS image sensor guarantees exceptional image quality for all applications. A truly universal solution for creative photographers looking for an all-in-one camera, the V-Lux 3 also features extensive broad range of video options and offers video quality comparable to premium-range camcorders.

"The Leica V-Lux 3 combines exceptional performance with the handy size of a compact camera. It offers a vast range of focal lengths and covers almost all photographic situations that usually require the use of a camera system. The V-Lux 3 is therefore an attractive alternative to entry-level DSLR cameras with interchangeable lenses," says Peter Kruschewski, Product Manager for Digital Compact Cameras at Leica Camera AG.

The Leica V-Lux 3 features a very impressive range of video functions, capturing full-HD video in AVCHD format with 1920 × 1080 pixels and 60 full frames per second. This 1080p60 video format not only guarantees the perfect rendition of fast movement in outstanding detail but is also ideal for conversion to alternative resolutions and refresh rates. The entire 24-fold zoom range is available during video recording while an integrated stereo microphone with an electronic wind noise filter guarantees a crystal-clear soundtrack.

One of the fastest consecutive shooting cameras in its class, the V-Lux 3 incorporates a high-speed burst-shooting capability: bursts of 12 frames per second at full resolution, or 60 frames per second at a resolution of 3.5 MP.

A reliable aid to photographers in the precise composition and assessment of images, the 3" LCD display with 460,000 pixel resolution delivers an extremely bright and clear view. The monitor screen of the V-Lux 3 can be twisted and turned in almost any direction, opening up entirely new horizons for image composition from even the most unusual angles. When shooting stills or video from above their head or down close to the ground, photographers using the V-Lux 3 always remain in full control.

The design of the Leica V-Lux 3 is characterized by a compact form and extremely simple handling. The camera's integrated handgrip keeps it steady and its light weight allows for one-handed shooting. All controls are clearly laid out and simple to use. For instance, video recording can be started quickly and easily at the touch of a button on the top deck of the camera.

Supporting Leica Camera's commitment to an uncompromised customer experience, the Leica V-Lux 3 comes complete with a two-year warranty. The camera also is supplied with a comprehensive software package, including Adobe® Photoshop® Elements and Adobe® Premiere® Elements. The image-processing software Adobe® Photoshop® Elements offers users options for viewing, organization and administration in addition to a wide range of image-processing solutions. Adobe® Premiere® Elements is especially designed for video processing and offers optimum features for processing videos recorded by the V-Lux 3 in AVCHD format, enabling the creation of professional audio and video effects. Both programs are available as free downloads from the Leica Camera website after registration of the camera.

The Leica V-Lux 3 will be available from Leica Camera dealers beginning January 2012

Dilution of the brand, or mass market genius idea?
 
I understand Panasonic had been building most of the digital camera boards and full system/equipment for Leica for many years. And Lecia builds most of the Panasonic's lenses and optical elements.

Strange relationship -- Panasonic camera price lowest $350 Lecia around $1000
 
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I wonder what the price difference will be once on the market!! just found out £115 lol although I doubt the panasonic will come with the essentials software so if you add £80 for that perhaps the difference might be worthwhile
 
After a little research they both look to use the same sensor but leica have added the potential to shoot RAW and the rear screen is 480,000 pxls (panasonic 320,000) + the software now the price difference allowing for the software seems reasonable. I wonder if this is panasonics way of trying to beat the X-S1 on the market
 
There is also another Panasonic camera that Leica also brand, I cant remember the model. I was looking at both variations and the woman (who was very nice and helpful) in the shop said that despite them being pretty much identical people will still buy the Leica because it has Leica on it!
 
Yes, this is not new. Leica and Panasonic have had this arrangement for years with several models of cameras that are essentially identical. But the Leica claims different firmware and software, and that nifty red tag... so that totally makes up for it!

One other thing, I believe Leica lenses for these cameras aren't real Leica lenses, either. They are made in Japan.
 
It's a bit like Porsche building SUVs if you ask me.

They should never have done it, it dilutes the DNA, but people buy them by the bucket load :confused:
 
Duane: No chance. This is manufactured in the same factory to the same design specs as the Panasonic.

Chris: Couldn't agree with you more. As the proud owner of a Porsche, I'm more than a bit annoyed that the Cayenne even exists.
 
Duane: No chance. This is manufactured in the same factory to the same design specs as the Panasonic.

Chris: Couldn't agree with you more. As the proud owner of a Porsche, I'm more than a bit annoyed that the Cayenne even exists.

Ooooo, which one do you have Darren? :)
 
Very nice :) Looks like a 2000/01 986 S?

Janelle has a 99 986 - lovely motor :)

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That's exactly what it is, Chris- an '01 986 S. Good eye. This is the first year the S model was released, and the only year in that color of blue. I've had it for ten years now.

That red one's a beaut', by the way. Lots of fun to drive, aren't they?
 
One of the most perfectly balanced cars on the road - and a blast at that :)

Janelle's had her's for 11+ years - apart from needing a new engine at 9,000 miles, it's been solid! :D
 
The other Panasonic camera Leica re branded was the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3K. Marketed as the Leica D-LUX 4 Titanium. The Panasonic & LEICA both used the DC VARIO-SUMMICRON f/2-2.8 5.1-12.8mm lens. (35mm equivalent 24-60mm).
 
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