Leica D-Lux 3MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom
by Leica
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Digital Photo Product Details
Manufacturer: LeicaModel: 18236
Product features:
- 3-megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create photo-quality 8 x 10 prints and medium-quality prints up to 11 x 14
- 3x optical plus 3x digital zoom (9x total)
- Compact size, aluminum body, classic look
- Includes 64 MB Secure Digital card; also compatible with MMC cards
- Powered by rechargeable lithium-ion battery; connects to PCs and Macs via USB 2.0
- Adobe Photoshop CS5 Upgrade [Old Version]
- Serif PhotoPlus X3
- Adobe Photoshop CS4 Upgrade [OLD VERSION]
- Aperture 3
- Pixelmator [Old Version]
Digital Cameras Photo Reviews of Leica D-Lux 3MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom
Customer Review: A Generous Piece with Timeless Quality & Craftsmanship
Summary: 4 Stars
This has got to be the finest 3 megapixel camera ever manufactured. I was comparing this to a 5MP Panasonic Lumix for the longest time because of the equipped Leica lens. I wasn't sure if Leica had produced such similar digital camera until I did some search and came across the beautiful D-LUX model. What I like best about the Leica D-LUX is the timelessness of its design - one look and you know it's a quality piece and the trademark of Leica. Apart from the solid anodized aluminum metal construction, the photos do me justice! I took photos at pitch dark in auto mode with only the flash and the exposures were like from a studio with full lighting, its got amazing color balance. I could not believe the capability of this machine and it's incredible! Although noise level above ISO 100 is noticeable (photo journalist-magazine quality?). This camera almost doubled the cost compared to the Lumix FX8 (again, a 3MP vs 5MP) but worth it for the quality of photos and the construction of how it was built, like back in the good ol' days with pride. Also included is a generously packaged handsome Presentation Box with matching Leather Cases for the camera and two Batteries (yes, 2) along with a larger than usual 64MB SD card. Leica also compliments a free brand new HP photosmart145 printer with this purchase. At this cost, one can only wonder why...and it's worth every dollar spent!
Tips for reducing "Noise/Grainy" photos:
For daylight shots: Use "P" mode on the dial; on the Menu button, set to ISO 50 and adjust the "W. Balance" to (Cloudy Day) and you should get photos with vibrant colors and it should result to minimum or no noise effects.
Now, for night shots: On the dial, use the *Star* mode, repeat the same and adjust W. Balance to (Tungsten) and reduce its ISO setting, preferrably 100-200 and keep the flash ON! Take a few test shots until you get the desired results and lighting for low lit areas, but you MUST hold still like a rock if you're not using tripods, otherwise WAIT and not move a millimeter per the instruction from the screen (this is the price you pay for not using a tripod, but worth the fun).
There are endless possibilities with this piece of gem, so READ THE MANUAL thoroughly and play along!
Pros:
It's a Leica!
Packaging,
Imaging,
Design & Rugged Construction,
64 MB SD Card,
2 Batteries,
Leather Appointments
FREE HP photosmart 145 printer!
Cons:
Noticeable noise above ISO 100
No Anti-Shake or Image Stabilizer support
Thickness
Wish it was at least 4MP
Battery life is virtually useless (it could have gotten 5 stars if wasn't for this problem)
Description of Leica D-Lux 3MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom
The elegant Leica D-LUX initiates a new line in Leica's portfolio of digital cameras. As a constant companion it can capture the encounters and events in life and document them as in a visual diary. It has clearly arranged functions and is delightfully easy to use. Optics and Resolution
Despite its miniscule size the D-Lux incorporates a 3.2 million effective-pixel CCD for clear printouts at up to 11x14 inches. It also uses a Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT f/2,8?4,9/5,8?17,4 mm ASPH lens with 7 elements in 6 groups and 3 aspherical surfaces (corresponds to 35 ? 105 mm for 35 mm photography). Focal length is adjusted by zoom rocker switch conveniently located behind the shutter release. A 3x optical zoom can be combined with a 3x digital zoom for a total 9x zoom level. The white balance is fully automatic or can be manually adjusted to ISO 50/18°, 100/21°, 200/24° or 400/27°.
Storage and Transfer
The camera uses either SD or MMC cards and connects to a PC or Mac via a USB 2.0 connection. It also has an A/V output with 2.5 mm mini jack for image and sound transmission to TV/audio system/computer.
Movie Mode
Movies can be recorded at resolutions of up to 640x480 pixels in QuickTime format.
More Features
The styling of the new Leica D-LUX is deliberately reminiscent of the timeless shape of classic Leica reportage cameras. The metal body, made of aluminum, supports this look. Its fabrication is just as meticulous. Even details such as the mode dial as well as the two covers for the battery compartment, memory card and connectors are made of solid metal. The symbols on the mode dial ? durably protected against wear ? are engraved in the aluminum and filled-in with black paint. So, if at any time you don't have a good subject in sight, you still have a timeless object in your hands.
Other features include:
- White balance presets for daylight, cloud, halogen lighting or manual setting
- Four subject-related automatic programs for close-up, portraits, landscapes and twilight shots
- 1.5 inch LCD
Power and Size
A rechargeable 3.6-volt Li-ion battery powers the camera and is included in the package. The camera measures 4 4/5 by 2 by 1 2/5 inches and weighs seven ounces (without the battery).
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