The LEICA C-LUX 2 by Leica Camera AG, Solms, is a new elegant and high-performance digital model from the Leica C-Lux line. The 7.2 megapixel camera sports a particularly compact metal body, making it even flatter and easier to handle than the predecessor model – the LEICA C-LUX 1. In addition, the LEICA C-LUX 2 has numerous technical improvements in store. A new high-speed image signal processor, also used in the digital SLR camera LEICA DIGILUX 3, ensures improved image processing and storage inside the camera. This gives the LEICA C-LUX 2 the edge over many other models due to its faster reaction capability in those all-decisive moments. The LEICA C-LUX 2 is the first ultra compact digital camera from Leica to incorporate “Intelligent ISO“ automatic exposure control. The interaction of this feature with the optical image stabilization leads to sharply focused photos of moving objects even in poor light.

With its large zoom range of 28 to 100 mm in 35mm format, the powerful LEICA DC VARIOELMARIT f/2.8-5.6/4.6-16.4 mm ASPH. lens of the LEICA C-LUX 2 delivers stunning photos in true-to-life color from wide-angle to telephoto. Starting at a focal length of 28mm, the high-speed optics offer a virtually unique wide angle for this class of camera which is particularly useful for capturing whole groups or interior views.

“The LEICA C-LUX 2 sets new standards in the ultra compact camera segment. This new camera is not only particularly elegant and stylish, but also boasts a top-class Leicadesigned lens. As it has the added benefit of an extremely short shutter delay, it would be hard to find a camera in this class with greater flexibility for mastering decisive photographic situations. It is the ideal tool for recording precious memories, allowing the photographer the necessary spontaneity to capture life’s unique moments,” says Marius Eschweiler, Product Manager for digital compact cameras at Leica Camera AG.

With a resolution of 207,000 pixels, the 2.5“ camera display of the LEICA C-LUX 2 shows a brilliant image which helps the photographer compose the picture and accurately assess the result. Due to its generous size, the display can be viewed by several people at the same time. In wide-angle mode, the display can still be optimally seen even at a difficult viewing angle such as over a crowd of people, and can be switched to extra bright Power LCD mode for visibility in extremely bright ambient light.

The powerful 3.6x zoom lens LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT f/2.8-5.6/4.6-16.4 mm ASPH. consists of seven lens elements in six groups, of which five elements are aspherical. The newly designed optics are individually matched to the camera sensor. Thanks to the skilful combination of optics, electronics and software, the user can enjoy high color fidelity, excellent definition and vivid contrast. With respect to the matching of color, contrast and definition, Leica Camera AG has developed its own profile around the image properties familiar to customers of Leica system cameras in their use in combination with professional film material and development.

A further key to successful photography is the integrated optical stabilizer (O.I.S.) that can be activated for exposure only or for both exposure and the camera display. Through consistent compensation of small hand movements the image stabilization reliably prevents camera shake in any situation. The LEICA C-LUX 2 also features “Intelligent ISO” automatic exposure control, first used in the high-end compact camera LEICA V-LUX 1. Thanks to “Intelligent ISO”, the camera automatically detects movements of the subject and raises the film speed up to max. ISO 800 to ensure a fast exposure time. The highest ISO sensitivity can be preset by hand. With this and the MEGA O.I.S. image stabilization, sharply focused pictures are always guaranteed – even in difficult light situations such as twilight or interiors, and in the telephoto range.

The LEICA C-LUX 2 has a strikingly clear and concentrated design. The reduction of design elements to the essential makes the camera a typical Leica with a timelessly elegant form that is comfortable to handle. Thanks to the clear layout of the controls and in the intuitive operation concept, the LEICA C-LUX 2 is easy to use.

The LEICA C-LUX 2 has a metal body and great attention has been paid to manufacturing detail. The exclusive use of high-quality materials, for instance, guarantees a reliable and robust product.

The LEICA C-LUX 2 comes with a 64MB SD memory card, a charger, a powerful battery, AV, USB and AC cables as well as an extensive software package (Adobe Photoshop Elements 5.0 [for PC], 4.0/3.0 [for Mac] and Quicktime Movie Player). An AC adapter (for direct connection of camera to the mains), spare battery and several camera case models are also available as accessories. The fine leather cases in a choice of brown, black or red have a micro velour lining to protect the surface of the camera and are particularly elegant, while the neoprene case will be popular with some customers due to its neat neck strap design. Both camera case models afford safe protection from damage. Color-coordinated carrying straps with accessory pockets for two SD cards and matching wrist straps are also available for the leather cases.

Connecting the LEICA C-LUX 2 to the Leica Digital Adapter also provides a simple solution for digiscoping – photography through a spotting scope. Instead of the bulky and expensive outfit that was often necessary in the past, the equipment can now be limited to the compact digital camera connected to the eyepiece of a LEICA TELEVID scope via the adapter. This turns the LEICA C-LUX 2 into a camera with an extreme zoom range for ambitious birdwatchers and nature observers. Everything seen through the scope can be captured in an impressive frame-filling digital photo without vignetting. The large 2.5” monitor of the LEICA C-LUX 2 is excellent for assessing the frame and image composition when digiscoping. The optical image stabilization ensures shake-free nature shots even in poor light and extreme conditions. This, plus the camera’s short shutter delay, enables unique moments to be reliably recorded.

The LEICA C-LUX 2 will be on sale in a choice of black or silver at Leica stockists’ from May 2007.

About Leica

Oskar Barnack’s genius idea of creating the small format 35mm camera created a revolution in photography in 1925, paving the way for the birth of the Leica Legend. His diminutive, lightweight LEICA A offered a new, undreamed-of freedom in reportage and artistic photography. From that point to the present day, Leica has had a profound influence on our view of the world we live in.

What was started in 1914 with the Ur-Leica quickly turned into a lasting success. In 1932, around 90,000 cameras were already in use. By 1961, the number had increased to a million. Milestones in the development include the rangefinder cameras such as the legendary LEICA M3 in 1954 and the M6 in 1984. The R-System commenced in 1976 with the LEICA R3 - the first electronic Leica. In 1989, the first compact point-and-shoot model entered the market. 1998 also saw the launch of the first digital camera - the LEICA DIGILUX. Without exception, all developments are focused on the requirements of the user and are characterized by the highest quality, focus on essential functions, and comfortable user-friendly controls.