Last Updated on April 29, 2019
The Leica Q might not have been within the price range of most photographers but it was one that wasn’t a massive disappointment. One of the features it lacked for a camera of its price range was support for 4K video. Its successor, the Q2, includes that and much more.
Courtesy of: Kai W
Impressive image quality
The Leica Q was praised for its really good image quality. The Q2 continues the tradition, but makes it even better. While both cameras feature full-frame sensors, the newer one offers a much higher resolution – 47.3 vs 24.2 megapixels. That kind of capability allows users of the Q2 to capture great photos even in difficult lighting scenarios.
Apart from taking impressive still images, the Q2 is equally great for shooting videos. Its predecessor lacked support for 4K video, and Leica has answered the call with this new model. The quality of images – both for moving pictures and photographs – are enhanced with the Leica Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH lens.
Leica stretches the capabilities of a 28mm lens thanks to built-in crop functions that can be used for equivalent focal lengths such as the 35mm, 50mm, and the 75mm. With this feature, users now have better, more creative ways of taking close-ups and portraits. The software allows full sensor images to be taken when shooting cropped DNG files, which allows users to undo or change the crop after the image has been taken.
One of the most appreciated additions in the Q2 is its 4K video capability. The camera supports the recording of video in 4K UHD and Cine4K. Users can choose from the 4K and 1080p range for frame rate options. All this allows users to capture video with impressive quality, something which is always appreciated when saving memories or shooting short films.
User friendly design and exceptional handling
The Leica Q was praised for the attention to detail given to its design and handling. That tradition of user-friendly design continues with the Q2. The camera is still made with materials that not only attract but are resilient as well. In terms of handling, the distinctive thumb rest and its diamond-pattern leather trim makes ensures not only a great feel but also an optimal grip.
While continuing favored design concepts, Leica has also introduced some new ones. It borrows from cameras in the Leica line, including the Leica M10 and the Leica CL, in offering a single-stage On/Off switch, a simplified three-button interface located on the camera’s rear, and a programmable button situated within the thumb wheel dial.
Another new addition to the Q2 layout is a push-button diopter compensation dial which is located at the back of the camera. Its purpose is to lock settings in order to prevent changes – done by accident – to the settings chosen by a user.
Still in the area of user-friendly functions, photos and videos taken using the Q2 can be easily shared to social media accounts via the Leica FOTOS App and the integrated WiFi module. With Bluetooth, users can pair their smartphones with the camera and can remotely wake it when it is within range.
Accessorize to personalize
Courtesy of: Park Cameras
How do you make the Q2 truly your own? Leica provides an answer through the different accessories that can be bought for the camera. Users can purchase a matching camera protector case and carrying strap in classic black or brown leather and more standout colors like red and pink. Users can also opt for soft, coated canvas pouches in colors such as midnight blue, red colorways, and stone gray.
Users who prefer the more technical accessories also have choices in different flash units (Leica SF 40 and SF 60) and an SF C1 remote flash control unit.
The Leica Q2 is now available at Leica stores, boutiques, and dealers.
