Editorial Review

The Leica Minilux Zoom offers the fastest zoom lens ever put on acompact Leica--the Vario-Elmar 35-70mm zoom lens. Housed in a body of high-gradetitanium, this is one of the most versatile and deluxe compact 35mm cameras evermade. Another feature that makes the Minilux Zoom stand out is a hot shoe mountfor the Leica CF flash unit (sold separately) in addition to the built-in flash.This allows you to reduce red-eye and light up objects from a greaterdistance.Read more

Features

• Quality 35mm zoom compact camera with high-grade titanium body
• High-speed Leica Vario-Elmar 35-70mm zoom lens (f/3.5 to f/6.5)
• Fully automatic controls with additional manual settings
• Hot shoe for optional add-on flash unit, plus built-in flash
• Chosen Europe's Compact Camera of the Year 1998/99 by European Imaging and Sound Association (EISA)

Reviews (4)

Expensive but well worth it...
I'm going to make it very simple. Leica when it comes to cameras is like a Land Rover when it comes to jeeps. Of course you can buy a Cherokee or a Chevy Blazer but if you want reliability, quality and durability you would go for Land Rover. Same goes for Leica... If you are looking for strong, sharp, durable piece of equipment that will not fail you and has possibilities of being expanded, Minilux Zoom is the way to go. You have to realize before purchase that this camera has a relatively short zoom by industry standard (only 2x). Lens is not as fast aperture wise as original Minilux. But the quality of optics and output is superior to many cameras and comparable only to Contax T series. This camera is not for everyone due to the price and some features that are fairly limited for regular/average user. On the other hand for a pro, serious amateur or journalist Minilux Zoom offers features (manual focusing, exposure compensation and full flash control) that they would truly appreciate. Having control over their exposure in such a small package without compromising the image quality is quite rare to get. Anyone who had to drag/carry his/her SLR (single lens reflex) cameras will understand and cherish the value of this piece. Also in order to fully benefit from this camera a basic knowledge and understanding of photography principles is very helpful. Also additional possibilities such as mounting extra flash, bulb mode and cable release makes it an all around camera as well.

IT IS THE LENS!!
I have owned both the Minilux and the Minilux Zoom ; I have since resold the Minilux Zoom. The lens is simply too slow compared with the less expensive Minilux which uses a fast (bright) 40mm lens which is much closer to what the eye sees (50mm).I worked for the National Film Board of Canada,I have used many cameras but when I travel I bring only the Minilux because it takes incredible pictures even in the worst low light conditions and even without the flash; I use inside churches and museums with the flash turned off. A zoom this size is simply too slow to be useful, 3 steps forward or three steps back will produce the same result with the Minilux and you will be able to take incredible pictures in those low light conditions. Save your money, buy the Minilux. It's the lens that counts.

Superp
Yes, it is an excellemt one .buT gotta learn and experiience how touse it for better result eg.yr hand must be quite steady when shoot. But the result is more than I can say!If money is no object , should get one. ... Read more

Editorial Review

The first thing you notice about the new Leica C1 (released January2000) with 38-105mm aspherical zoom lens is its refreshingly sleek styling. Itis a compact camera that truly looks like a Leica; its curved edges and a silveraluminum body are quite reminiscent of the classic Leica M series cameras. Ofcourse, being a compact, it is slightly smaller than an M series camera in bothwidth and length, and much lighter. If you are already a Leica fan, you'realmost guaranteed to fall in love with the well-styled, easy-to-use LeicaC1.Read more

Features

• Elegant, lightweight, and sturdy compact 35mm camera
• High-quality Leica Vario-Elmar 38-105mm aspherical zoom lens (f/4.0 to f/10.5)
• Fully automatic focus and exposure control with manual override
• Built-in flash
• Can be set to imprint date or time; includes self-timer

Reviews (5)

Its a great buy
Lets face it this is a P&S camera. It doesn't have all the bells and whistles but whatever it does, it does best. I have taken some excellent pictures with this camera. I have 2 SLR cameras and 6 lens. This camera does have some shortcomings but I like the quality. Its a great camera
From it aluminum body to it vario-elmar lense. I've taken several pictures and they all came out absolutely incredible, the details and contrast are picture perfect. The camera is a little big to fit in a pocket, but it is very solid feeling, and user friendly, zoom works flawlessly.

A Leica that's not a Leica
As someone who's always wanted to own a Leica camera, buying a C1 proved to be a bitter disappointment. That first moment of running the lens in and out and hearing what sounded like gravel in the lens barrel wasn't a good start. I immediately sent the camera back and got another one, same thing. A further disappointment was actually using the camera. With a lens speed about as fast as a glacier,(f10.5 @105mm), using the camera in the middle of the day, albeit overcast, with 100 ISO film trying to take a landscape, the camera was screaming for the flash. I sent the camera back and bought a Canon Z135, great camera, half the price and twice the features, (with a much faster lens). Buy anything, but this over rated "Leica wanta be" ... Read more

Editorial Review

The sleek C11 is Leica's first venture into the APS format. It features a 3x zoom and midroll change, which allows you to choose between three picture formats (classic, group, or panoramic) and to change partially exposed films. The C11 is quite compact and extremely simple to operate. The 3x aspherical zoom glass lens permits optimum framing, has drop-in automatic loading with optical double-exposure protection, automatic film speed setting, and active autofocus.Read more

Features

• Sleek, ergonomic compact APS camera
• Choose between 3 picture formats
• 3x zoom lens with various focal lengths
• Drop-in automatic film loading
• Multiprogram flash

Reviews (1)

Why buy the Leica c11?
This is a GREAT camera!The author is a serious advanced amateur, having two Hasselblads, a 4x5 rail camera, Canon EOS 3, Leica M3, 25+ lenses, etc. Did I mention a Nikon Coolpix 800? So, where does the C11 fit in? NOTHING is as small and light. This camera is about the size of a deck or cards! The lens is great for the 4x6 prints (if I want 16x20, there are better choices). But it is great for snapshots! Why is it better than the Coolpix? Better lens resolution AND the batteries aren't always dead!Read more

Editorial Review

The Leica Minilux is a topnotch 35mm compact camera that boasts anextremely attractive and durable titanium housing combined with a high-speedSummarit 40mm lens. The Minilux is a little heavier than most compact cameras,and is intended for the serious-minded amateur photographer who insists on thevery best. It offers an aperture priority mode, allowing you to manually set theaperture before shooting your picture (the camera will automatically choose theshutter speed). The Minilux also features either automatic or manual focusing.The exposure meter is center-weighted for precise metering, and the built-inflash fires automatically in low light. This camera is guaranteed to net youimpressive results and last nearly a lifetime.Read more

Features

• High-quality 35mm compact camera with handsome titanium body
• High-speed Leica Summarit 40mm lens (f/2.4)
• Automatic exposure or aperture priority (preselected aperture setting)
• Manual or automatic focusing from 28 inches to infinity
• Automatic lens protection cap

Reviews (14)

Excellent P&S Camera
This P&S Camera is truly exceptional.The camera and its titanium shell feel rock solid; the lens is top notch; and the image quality is excellent.Mind you, it will not replace your high end SLR, but if you want to travel light, and not compromise on image quality, then this is the camera for you.

Reliability
Initially there was a problem with the on/off switch which caused the shutter release to operate inconsistently.After repair by Leica the camera operates superbly.Lens is super sharp.

The Real McCoy
I own a Leica M6 rangefinder, a Nikon F-100 SLR, a Minox GT, "B" & "C" and the Leica Minilux. Overwhelmingly, I choose the Minilux to shoot with on a daily basis. I have taken this compact titanium camera all over the world and believe me, the picture resoloution is as close to the M6 as you can get. The convenience of the Minilux and the ease of operating the camera allows for optimal creative freedom! Concentrating on your composition instead of f-stops and shutter speeds is a joy. The extremely fast lens allows you to shoot in the most demanding low-light situations. No matter the setting, you can be sure that the exposure will be handeled instantly and perfectly as soon as the shutter button is pressed...and the photo will be crisp and sharp with vibrant detail. The Minilux is beauty, grace and perfection all rolled into one very cool looking compact camera. But hey, it's a Leica and that alone speaks volumes for the quality and design of this little marvel!!! The Minilux is a big camera in a little body that will be prized for it's convenience, excellence, and ruggedness for a lifetime of photography. Obviously, I love my Minilux and I love it more every time I have another roll of film developed. Shoot with a Minilux and be amazed at how your everyday "snap-shots" become frameable treasured memories...BT ... Read more

Reviews (1)

An amazing machine.
after much thought, I chose this camera above other more complicated SLRs so that my husband would feel comfortable using it. As an amature photographer, this is my first "point and shoot" camera and I couldn't be happier. You can have the confidence of the best optics available with this camera- I would use it in an art class in a second. The options are extensive and actually allow for a lot of control. I am thinking of getting the seperate flash unit to eliminate red-eye, though (it has the red-eye reducer but those rarely work in all situations). Buy with confidence and enjoy fine photos for the rest of your life! Such a good idea if you're used to good cameras and have children, who generally don't wait for their parents' focusing efforts with old-time SLRs (and their failing eyesight). Also, it's practically an heirloom. You'll get a kick out of envious photo-finish store staff peoples' comments as an added bonus. ... Read more

Editorial Review

Leica's M7 35mm compact rangefinder camera has been historically renowned for its build quality and outstanding performance, as field-tested by the most demanding photojournalists and avant-garde artists. The lens is built with the Leica M design and has a focal length of 21 to 135mm. All manual operations continue to be present, but this newest update now sports electronic control and operation with an on/off switch that starts it all.Read more

Features

• 35mm compact rangefinder camera
• Electronic controls with on/off switch
• Focal length of 21 to 135mm
• Stepless automatic shutter control
• .58x magnification viewfinder integrated with LED

Reviews (2)

classic
The Leica M7 is a superior intstrument in the realm of 35mm film cameras. The name alone stands for over 70 years of excellence.
Leica M7 rangefinder camera optimized for wide angle lenses
This version of the Leica M7 has the same features as the standard M7 with 0.72x viewfinder, most notably aperture priority automation and TTL (Through The Lens) flash, but lacks the frame line for a 135mm lens. It is designed for those interested in using primarily wide angle lenses and for those who wear eye glasses. Unfortunately, the Leica M7, unlike the Leica MP, is virtually dead except for two shutter speeds when your batteries die out. And yet despite this inconvenience, the Leica M7 is the quietest, best handling Leica M rangefinder camera I've come across. Regrettably, the 0.58x viewfinder model is no longer in production, except via the expensive Leica A La Carte program, so if this version of the M7 appeals to you, buy it soon!
Read more

Editorial Review

Leica's M7 35mm compact rangefinder camera has been historically renowned for its build quality and outstanding performance, as field-tested by the most demanding photojournalists and avant-garde artists. The lens is built with the Leica M design and has a focal length of 21 to 135mm. All manual operations continue to be present, but this newest update now sports electronic control and operation with an on/off switch that starts it all.Read more

Features

• 35mm compact rangefinder camera
• Electronic controls with on/off switch
• Focal length of 21 to 135mm
• Stepless automatic shutter control
• .72x magnification viewfinder integrated with LED

Reviews (1)

Leica's Rangefinder Camera for the 21st Century
The Leica M7 is truly one camera that is long overdue. Without a doubt, it is the finest - and most expensive - rangefinder camera currently in production. Much of what the Leica M7 offers is not revolutionary, but rather, a natural, evolutionary progression spanning nearly five decades since the introduction of the M3, Leica's first bayonet-mounted rangefinder camera. The shutter remains essentially the same as the one found on the M6, but it is far more accurate than its immediate predecessor; it is still a silk curtain shutter, but one that is now electronically controlled, guaranteeing accurate exposures every time. Surprisingly, it is now also quieter than the shutter for the Leica M6. Those familiar with Leicas, especially the M4 and M6, will find the M7 easy to use. However, you may have to carry additional batteries since this camera won't work without them, with the notable exception of two shutter speeds. Otherwise, I regret that this fine camera is truly too expensive for most photographers. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. range finder; range-finder; m-7; m 7;   

Editorial Review

The sleek C11 is Leica's first venture into the APS format. It features a 3x zoom and midroll change, which allows you to choose between three picture formats (classic, group, or panoramic) and to change partially exposed films. The C11 is quite compact and extremely simple to operate. The 3x aspherical zoom glass lens permits optimum framing, has drop-in automatic loading with optical double-exposure protection, automatic film speed setting, and active autofocus.Read more

Features

• Sleek, ergonomic compact APS camera
• Choose between 3 picture formats
• 3x zoom lens with various focal lengths
• Drop-in automatic film loading
• Multiprogram flash

Reviews (5)

Good camera for a buck...
I try to stay away from APS in general. It was a gift from me for my mom since she wanted small easy camera with an average zoom. It's a simple design with suprisingly good picture quality. Automatic flash does the great job in mixed lighting environment. Pictures are sharp and crisp. Color saturation is outstanding. Even if APS film is limited and negative size is smaller than regular 35mm film I was really amazed by the quality. My mom who is not the most technical person had no problems operating the controls or loading the camera. It was a piece of cake for her in no time. Also very nice weatherproof box that came with the camera protected the piece in the rain. Leica did a really nice job and even if the camera is little bigger than elphs and nikon nuvis it is worth every penny. Lots of fun. And looks stylish.
When I saw this camera for the first time I was probably the victim of irrational thought processes, seduced by the stylish minimalism and the Leica Logo of course. Lots of fun. And looks stylish.
When I saw this camera for the first time I was probably the victim of irrational thought processes, seduced by the stylish minimalism and the Leica Logo of course. Read more

Editorial Review

The Leica Z2X with date back is a high-quality 35mm zoom compact camerathat allows you to get the shot you need in almost any situation. The date backallows you to imprint the date and/or time right on the image for yourconvenience. The Z2X (Read more

Features

• Stylish and fully automatic 35mm compact camera with date imprinting
• High-quality Leica Vario-Elmar 35-70mm zoom lens (f/4.0 to f/7.6)
• Passive autofocus system with automatically activated flash
• Automatic exposure with center-weighted metering and manual shutter speeds of up to 99 seconds
• Bright real-image viewfinder allows for easy composition

Reviews (5)

Great lens; somewhat cheezy body
While it isn't exactly the cheapest point and shoot out there, the slightly higher additional price is most definitely justified by the fine optics.And it's much cheaper than a faster, fixed focal-length Leica, Rollei, or Contax.Bought mine in Germany about three years ago for a ridiculously low price, and it goes with me everywhere, especially on the job and following the kids around for candid portraits outdoors.It certainly comes close to my professional SLR equipment in terms of picture sharpness and color rendition.As with most modern cameras, stay off the auto program mode and you'll quickly learn the utility of the exposure override, fill flash, manual, and flash-off modes.Almost any other point and shoot with the same or greater zoom range is junk compared to the Leica's Vario-Elmar lens.My only gripes are the somewhat cheap-feeling plastic body (like almost every other P&S) and the slow F7.6 at the 70mm focal length (still fast compared to others, however).If simplicity is one of your priorities, this is a wonderful camera.

It's like a German car...ugly looks but flawless function
I was a skeptic...could this camera be worth twice the MSRP of its point-and-shoot competitors?Well, my Grandma was correct:buy the best and you'll always be happy with it.I have been using my Z2x for about two months, and I am very pleased.The picture quality is superb:realistic color and extra-sharp images.The camera is very light and compact, fitting nicely into an inside jacket pocket.Typical Germanic hieroglyphs abound in the "mode" LCD screen, but once you learn the symbols' meaning they make sense.(Drivers of German-made automobiles understand the bit about the hieroglyphs already.) This can be our little secret.
I have had mine for 3 years now. I bought the one that is black outside and looks like a...(cheap) point and shoot. It'll fool ya. The optics are exceptional. I have found myself leaving the camera with diaper bag at the office and just toting this little camera along. I have published many photographs from this camera. It is very capable. ... Read more

Editorial Review

The Leica Z2X is a high-quality 35mm compact zoom camera that allows youto get the shot you need in almost any situation. The Z2X (Read more

Features

• Stylish and fully automatic 35mm compact camera
• High-quality Leica Vario-Elmar 35-70mm zoom lens (f/4.0 to f/7.6)
• Passive autofocus system with automatic flash
• Automatic exposure with center-weighted metering and manual shutter speeds of up to 99 seconds
• Bright real-image viewfinder allows for easy composition

Reviews (8)

Performs like a premium slr
I have owned slr cameras from the big three camera makers, so I was able to do shot-for-shot comparisons. I can tell you that the sum photographic quality produced by the Leica Z2-X camera is incredibly high. It's a lot better than 90% of the major camera manufacturer's lenses. I bought the Leica Z2-X solely for those spur-of-the-moment outdoor trips that might need a quick snapshot here and there, so this is the perfect backpacking and fishing camera. It's light and compact; the handling is pretty much like a standard point-and-shoot camera. The autoexposure and autofocusing is nearly flawless. For sample photos, go to flickr dot com.

Disappointed
Bought this camera in April 1999 having read several good reviews. Have to say I'm disappointed; the lens is undoubtedly sharp (though on normal size prints, the advantage is negligible) but the exposure/focus/flash system rarely gets it right.Exterior daylight shots, about one in four is OK.Inside or night, far less. Have tried different ISO rolls, different processors, variations on the manual settings as well as leaving it on fully auto, but no improvement.What is annoying is comparing with the shots taken under same conditions by friends with P+S Pentax etc. (Olympus seems expecially good).They paid half the price and get twice the result! Will not be buying another Leica compact again - have the impression I paid for the name and possibly the lens, but lost out on the rest.

Great Point and shoot.
I love this camera.The lens is top notch !Crisp and clear pictures are almost garenteed with this camera. Read more

Editorial Review

The first thing you notice about the Leica C1 with 38-105mm aspherical zoom lens is its refreshingly sleek styling. It's a compact camera that truly looks like a Leica; its curved edges and black aluminum body are quite reminiscent of the classic Leica M series cameras. Of course, being a compact, it is slightly smaller than an M series camera in both width and length, and much lighter. If you're already a Leica fan, you're almost guaranteed to fall in love with the well-styled, easy-to-use Leica C1.Read more

Features

• Elegant, lightweight, and sturdy compact 35mm camera
• High-quality Leica Vario-Elmar 38-105mm aspherical zoom lens (f4-f10.5)
• Fully automatic focus and exposure control with manual override
• Built-in flash
• Can be set to imprint date or time; includes self-timer

Subjects:  1. 35 mm (35mm Millimeter)    2. Camera (Cameras)    3. 35 mm (millimeter)    4. Photograph (Photography)