Ben W Webster

The Leica SL2 replaces the SL typ 601 and represents the very best performance and image quality that Leica can produce, it’s the flagship. While maintaining iconic colours and shooting experience, this camera is one of the best pieces of equipment I have ever had the pleasure of using.

At the heart is the 47mp full frame, image stabilised sensor with 5.5 stops of stabilisation producing 15+ stops of dynamic range and ISO capabilities up to 50,000. This combined with the new Maestro III processor also found in the Q2, results in low light performance suitable for any shooting scenario. The files hold rich tonality and contrast right the way through past 6,400 ISO and onwards to 10,000/12,500. Granted, likes of some of the Sony’s resolve cleaner when looking at higher ISOs. But, how many of us actually use ISO past 12,500?

The dynamic range can only be described as “medium format like”. Jaw-dropping files that are very malleable and easy to edit in software such as Adobe Lightroom. The level of detail held within the files that can be extracted after the fact will rival offering from Hasselblad’s X1D II and even Fujifilm’s GFX 100.

In the recent firmware update 2.0, the new multi shot mode was added which gives you a 187mp file! This is a full DNG file with all the same malleability as the standard RAW file. This is accessed through the drive modes. The camera will not let you take the photo until the camera can detect it is steady and level. This is because it uses the IBIS to push the sensor half a pixel in each direction to stitch 4 full size RAW images together. The Maestro III processor does this faster than Lightroom would build a panorama. Not only does it save the 187mp version, but it also takes a standard photo in the full res 47mp mode. The camera automatically uses the electionric shutter to take these images a lot quicker. Look below to see just how much detail can be extracted out of almost 190mp….

Due to Leica’s unique sensor design, there are two camera systems in the world that take full advantage of the legacy design and optics found in M-Lenses…Leica’s own M-System and the SL range. So, when you pair 60 year old vintage M glass with this new 47mp monster of a sensor with IBIS and the highest resolution EVF I have ever used with focus peaking, the experience is revolutionised forever.

The EVF features a 5.76 million dot OLED screen running at 120 fps with glass optics inside to make the experience just that much better. Some will compare this closely to the one found in the Panasonic S1R. But as soon as you look through both, you will see the difference is noticeable to say the least! This feature is truly a revolutionary step, and in my opinion, reason enough to lean towards the SL2 over any competitor…it’s that good!

Another change coming from the typ 601 is the 3 button layout on the back of the camera. This is now inline with the M10, Q2 and CL. This allows the Leica experience to be seamless and fully integrated. The SL line attracts a lot of existing Leica shooters and makes a fantastic addition to any of these current cameras, it only makes sense that they are used the same way.

Something that hasn’t changed over the original SL is the weather sealing. It’s still class leading and from what I’ve seen, the only rival to surpass it will be Leica’s very own medium format S line. In fact, in an effort to improve upon this already phenomenal build quality, they moved the GPS tracking to be used in the phone through the Fotos app. This allowed one less area of the body to be exposed, therefore improving upon the weather sealing.

As Leica’s first attempt at truly stabilising a sensor, I think they did a great job! In photo mode, it’s steady and locks on quickly and reliably when metered. In video mode, its smooth and subtle unlike some other manufacturers first attempts (…..X-H1….). This is almost crucial when looking at a 47mp sensor. The SL has always been considered Leica’s fast pace, take anywhere camera that can withstand any pace or circumstance. The SL2 is no exception. Whether you’re taking your time with vintage M-Lenses on the street, or pairing with the 90-280 with quick capturing, intense photojournalism scenes, the SL2 delivers and never misses a shot.

Quickly touching on the SL-Lenses. The man in charge of the design of these gorgeous lenses, Peter Karbe, describes these as Leica’s very best. His all time favourite lens is the Summicron-SL 35mm. This amongst the others are his favourite lenses for a reason. They are truly stunning and if ultimate image fidelity and clarity is what you’re after. look no further. On the other hand, if you’re like me and you prefer a bit more character in your images with perfection in the imperfections, then you can buy the M-Adapter L with 6-bit coding and use any existing M-Lenses you may already own. This is the best solution for my street, travel and portrait photography. The SL lenses, while extraordinary, can be described as “clinical”. Almost no chromatic aberrations in any of the lenses with sharpness and micro contrast that will leave you jaw-dropped. Plus….AUTOFOCUS! Something no M lens could ever give you.

The SL lenses are in a class of their own. They are in my opinion, optical perfection and cannot be matched. This being said, the L-Mount Alliance does open up a world of possibilities. You obviously now have access to all of Panasonic’s new L mount lenses as well as Sigma’s. On top of which, you can use Sigma’s MC-21 and adapt all Canon EF lenses….with autofocus. If budget is the consideration and/or an obstacle, then these are some fantastic options. This results in hundreds of different lenses that can be used or adapted to not only the SL2, but the original typ 601, the CL and TL series. However, objectively the native SL lenses are considerably better and these are the ones I would highly recommended. The only other options in my books when considering size, weight and cost, is the M-Lenses. Personally, I was even adapting my much cheaper Voigtlander and Zeiss glass.

To summarise, this camera not only ticks every single box for me, but it’s one that holds an experience with me, a connection and a process of photography that reminds me why this art form is my passion. To be totally transparent, Sony also ticks a lot of boxes for me. But then it comes down to subjective experiences and what we as photographers look for in a camera once we actually use it. Ergonomics, file malleability, colour science, lens feel, menu interface…..to list a few. Overall, this is my favourite camera I have ever used, and just also happens to be the best camera I have ever used. Even comparing to all Fujifilm’s GFX options and Hasselblad's X1Ds and even their larger format H6Ds. This is also vastly different to the Panasonic S1 & S1R, just use them, you’ll see. Compared to Sony’s A7R IV, the Sony doesn’t stand a chance.

This camera is worth every penny and more!

I am writing this on 10th July 2020 and am curious to see how the SL2 compares to Canon’s new R5. Previously being a Canon user, this could be interesting. I am also keen to see what becomes of the rumoured Leica M10-R!