Leica SL3-S Mirrorless Camera with Vario-Elmarit-SL 28-70mm f/2.8 ASPH. Lens
This powerful kit combines the Leica SL3-S with the Vario-Elmarit-SL 28–70 f/2.8 ASPH. The camera features a 24MP full-frame sensor, a fast, precise PDAF autofocus system for continuous shooting with up to 30 images per second, and a high-performance processor from the latest generation.
The SL3-S offers maximum creative flexibility for photo and video production, with 3:2 open-gate recording, intuitive user guidance, the L bayonet, and numerous interfaces. The compact zoom lens boasts a consistent lens speed of f/2.8 and an excellent optical design with aspherical elements – all weighing in at just 572 grams. It’s ideal for landscape, travel, and portrait photography. Modern connectivity helps integrate the kit seamlessly into professional workflows, providing remarkable results whatever the situation.
Highlights:
24 Megapixel Sensor With Pdaf Autofocus & Image Stabilization
779 PDAF pixels; up to 30 fps in 12-bit with AFc; ISO 50 to 200,000; 48- and 96-megapixel handheld multi-shot mode.
Open-Gate Recording For Video & 5.9K HDMI RAW Video
6K at 30 fps, 4K at 60 fps, FHD at 120 fps, 5.8K ProRes 422 HQ at 30 fps; Direct Recording on an External SSD.
Numerous interfaces, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
HDMI 2.1 type A, CFexpress type B, SD UHS-II, USB-C (10 Gbits), timecode interface, 3.5 mm audio in/out.
Leica SL3-S
Moments without limits
Equipped with a 24MP full-frame sensor, a fast, precise PDAF autofocus system that enables continuous shooting at 30 frames per second with full autofocus support, and a state-of-the-art image processor, the Leica SL3-S is a master of performance. With its 3:2 Open Gate Recording feature, unique user experience, L-mount bayonet and numerous interfaces, it offers maximum flexibility and almost limitless possibilities for realizing creative visions in photography and video production. It reliably produces outstanding images and videos in any shooting situation. And thanks to its excellent connectivity, it can be seamlessly integrated into professional workflows.
When developing the Leica SL3-S, Leica focused on the high demands of professional photography and videography. In doing so, the brand prioritized speed, flexibility and versatility. A new BSI CMOS full-frame sensor with 24-megapixel native resolution, 48- and 96-megapixel multi- shot modes, and a new autofocus system form the core of the Leica SL3-S. Securely protected by an IP54-certified solid all-metal body, Leica combines the strengths of three focus technologies here: the latest generation in phase detection AF (PDAF), depth map (object detection AF) and contrast detection AF enable continuous shooting with the Leica SL3-S at up to 30 frames per second with full autofocus support. Together with a high dynamic range and the impressive ISO range of 50 to 200,000, the SL3-S delivers excellent quality photos and videos in all shooting situations.
The Leica SL3-S is also the first camera in the SL-System to be equipped with content credentials technology in accordance with the Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI) for photos. If desired, each image can be signed with tamper-proof metadata, such as the camera model and author information, as well as creation and editing data. The Leica SL3-S records videos in a resolution of up to 6K and offers 3:2 open-gate recording, a feature that provides flexibility when creating video content for a wide variety of channels. For example, portrait format videos can be recorded in 4K, 9:16 without any loss of quality and the field of view in recorded material can also be determined retrospectively. The Leica SL3-S records HDMI-RAW in 5.9K at 30 fps to external display recorders. What’s more, thanks to the fast CFexpress type B interface, ProRes 4:2:2 HQ in 5.8K at 30 fps or C4K at 60 fps can also be internally recorded without any recording time limits. It is also possible to record directly to an external SSD hard drive via the USB-C interface, which further increases the flexibility of the Leica SL3-S. The Maestro IV processor with L2 technology effortlessly handles enormous amounts of data, resulting in images with superb color rendering, high dynamic range and excellent noise behavior in the L-Log color space. This processor has been lauded internationally for its optimal quality.
In addition, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi with MIMO technology enable fast, stable connection to the Leica FOTOS App, with which DNG images can be transferred in full resolution in a matter of seconds. Over the course of 2025, the Camera-to-Cloud function will also become available via Adobe frame.io, which videos and photos can be uploaded directly from the camera to the Adobe frame.io cloud for further processing. The EyeRes viewfinder of the Leica SL3-S is equipped with a painstakingly produced optical system of glass lenses. It displays the subject crystal clear at all times with up to 120 images per second and a resolution of 5.76 million pixels. Another feature of the SL3-S is the tilting 3.2-inch high-res touchscreen with a high-quality tilting mechanism, which makes it even easier to take photos and videos from different angles. A further highlight is the interface, already familiar to users of the SL3. As with the SL3, the optimizations to the SL3-S include ergonomic and haptic features, as well as the user interface and menu navigation. The Cine mode has been tailored specifically to the needs of professional video production. The SL3-S is noticeably lighter and more compact than its predecessors and feels even better in the hand thanks to its optimized design. In addition, the complete range of accessories already available for the Leica SL3 are also compatible with the SL3-S.
SL3-S Features:
Full-frame BSI CMOS Sensor with 24 megapixel sensor and fast PDAF hybrid autofocus system (30 fps, 12 bit, AFc)
Open Gate Video Recording (6K, 30fps / 4K, 60fps) and HDMI-RAW Video (5,9K, 30fps / 4K, 60fps)
48MP and 96MP multishot mode
Unique Leica user experience thanks to intuitive operation and customisable functions
In-Body Image Stabilisation (IBIS) and L-Mount bayonet
5.76 mio. dots OLED viewfinder and tiltable 3.2" display with 2,3 mio. dots
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi (MIMO)
SD UHS-II, CFexpress Type-B and USB-C SSD-Recording, HDMI 2.1 type A and 3.5mm jack, Timecode interface
Made in Germany mit IP54 ingress protection
Video Features:
Unlimited 6K Open Gate Internal Recording: Using the full size of the sensor in the native 3:2 aspect ratio instead of being limited to recording in the cropped 16:9 aspect ratio, new creative opportunities are now possible for postproduction, while showcasing the full characteristics of the chosen full frame lens when capturing video.
Unlimited 5.8K Internal ProRes 422 HQ recording: With widespread adoption across the video post-production industry, ProRes 422 HQ offers visually lossless recording, with a high data rate of up to 1,9 Gbps.
5.9K 12bit RAW External Video Recording: For videographers who need the most flexibility in post-production, RAW video offers incredibly malleable files with the best dynamic range and color grading support for full scale productions.
Direct to SSD recording via USB-C: Introducing a 4th recording option for video (alongside SD, CF Express & HDMI), creatives may use even larger storage options, perfect for bigger projects.
Camera to Cloud with Frame.io planned in 2025: The Leica SL3-S will be able to share footage directly to the cloud, for enhanced collaboration among teams.
Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 28-70mm f/2.8 ASPH. Lens
The innovative optical design and incorporation of aspherical elements enable the new SL-Lens to deliver exceptional performance while maintaining a constant f/2.8 aperture across its entire focal-length range. Thanks to its constant aperture throughout the zoom range, and incredibly compact and lightweight design, this lens is an ideal choice for both photography and videography.
The focal length spanning from 28 to 70mm allows the lens to transition from wide angle to slight telephoto, making it particularly well-suited for capturing landscapes, travel scenes, and portraits.
Cutting-edge coatings on the lenses ensure optimal color rendition and contrast. These optimize light transmission while effectively minimizing reflections. The sophisticated optical construction, comprising 16 lenses arranged in 12 groups, delivers exceptional performance. Three of these lenses feature aspherical surfaces on both sides, enhancing image quality and precision.
Vario-Elmarit 28–70 f/2.8 ASPH. Lens Features:
Ultra-compact zoom lens
Wide angle to short telephoto for everyday use
Constant aperture of f/2.8 across the entire focal length range
Outstanding imaging performance
Fast, precise autofocus system
Quiet and Fast Focusing Drive
Magnesium and Aluminum Full-Metal Housing
Hydrophobic AquaDura coating on external lens elements
Same 67mm filter size as the Leica SL APO Prime lenses
Durable metal housing delivering dust and splash-water protection
Approx. 768 g (without battery, SD card, camera bayonet cover)
Sensor-size
CMOS sensor, 25.3 MP/24.6 MP (total/effective)
Buffer
8 GB
Storage medium
UHS-II (recommended), UHS-I, SD/SDHC/SDXC card + CFexpress card type B (recommended)
Material
All-metal housing: magnesium and aluminum, synthetic leather cover, protected against splash water according to IEC standard 60529 (protection class IP54)
Lens mount
Leica L bayonet with contact strip for communication between lens and camera
Operating conditions
-10 °C to +40 °C
Interfaces
ISO accessory shoe with additional control contacts Timecode interface HDMI socket 2.1 Type A USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-C Audio output 3.5 mm/audio input 3.5 mm Communication interface in the base cover for multifunctional handle
Tripod thread
A 1/4 DIN 4503 (1/4") stainless steel in the base
Processor
Leica Maestro series (Maestro IV)
Image stabilization
5-axis image stabilization
Filter
RGB color filter, UV/IR filter, no low-pass filter
File formats
Photo: DNG™ (raw data), DNG + JPG, JPG (DCF 2.0, Exif 3.00)Video: MP4 h.265 AAC 48 kHz/16 Bit h.264 AAC 48 kHz/16 Bit MOV: h.265 LPCM 48 kHz/24 Bit h.264 LPCM 48 kHz/24 Bit ProRes LPCM 48 kHz/24 Bit RAW: RAW LPCM 48 kHz/24 Bit
Photo resolution
35mm: JPG
6000 x 4000 24 MP
35mm: DNG
6000 x 4000 24 MP
APS-C: JPG
3936 x 2624 10,3 MP
APS-C: DNG
3936 x 2624 10,3 MP
File size
DNG™:
approx. 40 MB, depending on resolution and image content
JPG:
depending on resolution and image content
Video:
max. length depending on ambient temperature and available storage space
Color depth
DNG™:
14 bit (12 bit also possible depending on the continuous shooting mode)
Rec. 709, L-Log Rec. 2020, HLG Rec. 2020, further information can be found in the "L-Log Reference Manual" for download on the Leica website.
Viewfinder/monitor
Viewfinder (EVF)
Resolution: 5,760,000 pixels (dots), 60 fps or 120 fps, magnification: approx. 0.76x with aspect ratio 3:2 / approx. 0.78x with aspect ratio 4:3, image coverage: 100 %, exit pupil position: 21 mm, adjustable from -4 dpt to +2 dpt, with eye sensor for automatic switching between viewfinder and monitor, time delay 0.005 s
Monitor
3.2" (backlight LED) with anti-fingerprint and anti-scratch coating, 2,332,800 pixels (dots), 3:2 format, touch display
Mech. Shutter: 30 m to 1/8000 s Electric shutter function: 60 s to 1/16000 s Flash synchronization: up to 1/200 s
Shutter button
Two-stage (1st stage: activation of the camera electronics including autofocus and exposure metering; 2nd stage: shutter release)
Image sequence
Picture Series
2 fps, 14 bit, AF, Mechanical or Electric Shutter, AFc, even if AFs or Intelligent AF is selected 5 fps, 14 bit, AF, mechanical or electric shutter, AFc, even if AFs or Intelligent AF is selected 7 fps, 14 bit, AF, mechanical or electric shutter, AFc, even if AFs or Intelligent AF is selected 15 fps, 12 bit, AF, electric shutter, AFc, even if AFs or Intelligent AF is selected 30 fps, 12 bit, AF, electric shutter, AFc, even if AFs or Intelligent AF is selected
Focusing
Work area
Lens-dependent
Focus mode
Automatic or manual With manual setting: optional magnifying glass function (auto magnification) and edge marking (focus peaking) available as focusing aids
Autofocus system
Hybrid AF by combining contrast measurement, depth map and phase comparison measurement with AF measuring points in the sensor.
Autofocus modes
Intelligent AF (automatically refocuses as soon as something changes in the scene), AFs, AFc, AF setting can be saved, optional touch AF
Autofocus metering methods
Multi-field, spot (movable), field (movable and scalable), zone (movable and scalable), tracking, person detection, animal (beta)
Autofocus metering areas
Contrast-AF: 315 / Phase detection-AF: 779
Exposure
Exposure metering
TTL (exposure metering through the lens)
Exposure metering methods
Spot, center emphasized, bright areas emphasized, multi-field
Exposure modes
Program automatic (P) Aperture priority (A): manual setting of the aperture Shutter priority (S): manual setting of the shutter speed Manual (M): manual setting of shutter speed and aperture
Exposure compensation
±3 EV in 1/3 EV steps or 1/2 EV steps
Auto bracketing
3 or 5 exposures, gradations between exposures up to 3 EV, in 1/3 EV steps, optional additional exposure compensation: up to ±3 EV
ISO sensitivity range
Auto ISO: Photo ISO 100–ISO 200 000 Auto ISO: Video ISO 100–ISO 200 000 Auto ISO: Video L-Log ISO 400–ISO 100 000 Auto ISO: Video HLG ISO 400–ISO 200 000 Manual: Photo ISO 50–ISO 200 000 Manual: Video ISO 50–ISO 200 000 Manual: Video L-Log ISO 400–ISO 100 000 Manual: Video HLG ISO 400–ISO 200 000
White balance
Automatic (Auto), presets (Sunny, Cloudy, Shade, Tungsten, HMI, Fluorescent (warm), Fluorescent (cool), Flash), manual measurement (gray card (pipette), gray card), manual color temperature setting (color temperature, 2000 K to 11500 K)
Flash
Flash unit connection
About accessory shoe
Flash sync speed
1/200 s, slower shutter speeds can be used, if the sync speed falls below: with HSS-compatible Leica flash units, automatic switchover to TTL linear flash mode
Flash metering
Using center-weighted TTL pre-flash metering with Leica flash units (SF 26, SF 40, SF 58, SF 60, SF 64) or system-compatible flash units, SF C1 remote flash control
Flash exposure compensation
SF 40: ±2 EV in 1/2 EV steps SF 60: ±2 EV in 1/3 EV steps
Equipment
Microphone
Stereo internal + microphone input 3.5 mm stereo jack
Loudspeaker
Mono internal + headphone output 3.5 mm jack stereo
WLAN
The "Leica FOTOS" app is required to use the WLAN function. Available in the Apple App Store™ or in the Google Play Store™. EU/US/CN, IEEE802.11b/g/n, 2.4 GHz, channel 1-11 (2412-2462 MHz) EU/US/CN, Client mode, (for indoor use only) IEEE802.11a/n/ac, 5 GHz, channel 36-64 (5180-5320 MHz) EU/US/CN, Access point + client mode, IEEE802.11a/n/ac, channel 149-165 (5745-5825 MHz) JP, Access point + client mode, (for indoor use only) IEEE802.11a/n/ac, 5 GHz, channel 36-48 (5180-5240 MHz) JP, client mode, (for indoor use only) IEEE802.11a/n/ac, channel 52-144 (5260-5720 MHz)
GPS
Can be activated via the Leica FOTOS app, not available everywhere due to country- specific legislation. Data is written to the Exif header of the image files.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth 5.0 LE: Channel 0-39 (2402-2480 MHz)
Menu languages
English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Korean
Power supply
Rechargeable battery (Leica BP-SCL6)
Lithium-ion battery, rated voltage 7.2 V (DC); capacity 2200 mAh (min.), 315 shots (according to CIPA standard), 1042 shots (according to CIPA standard with adjusted shooting cycle) Factory: Panasonic Energy (Wuxi) Co. Ltd, manufactured in China
USB-C power supply unit (Leica ACA-SCL6, optionally available)
Input: AC voltage 100-240 V, 50/60 Hz, 0.25 A, automatic switching; Output: DC voltage 5 V/9 V, 3 A; Manufacturer: Salom Electric (Xiamen) Co, Ltd, made in China
Input: DC voltage 5 V/3 A, 9 V/3 A, automatic switching; Output: DC voltage 8.4 V, 850 mA/1000 mA; Manufacturer: Salom Electric (Xiamen) Co., Ltd., made in China
Charging via USB
During operation: 9 V/3 A (min. 27 W) When the camera is switched off: 5 V/1500 mA (2.5 W or more)
