At first thought, one would think that the video and the filmmaking industry would already be saturated with lenses as there seems to be a new release almost every other day. With the many types of lenses manufactured by different companies, one can't help but wonder if there are any real differences between those competing for users' attention in the market.
Why are lenses the focal point of equipment making in the video and Filmmaking industry? Well, the answer is neither farfetched nor complicated; lenses have a great influence on the quality of the final outcome of a video or film shoot. They're the eyes of the video or film director in their quest to make the perfect shot.
So, let me introduce to you one of the newest technologies in lens design: The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens.
The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm f/2.8 ASPH. lens is a new universal zoom lens for L-Mount mirrorless cameras. It features an internal focusing system, three aspherical elements, no optical IS, 82mm front filter thread, and weighs 856g (1.9lbs).
The camera lens made by a German manufacturer offers a universal zoom lens with a constant f/2.8 aperture to accompany its Leica SL2, SL2-S and other L-Mount cameras. This latest addition comes as part of the L-Mount alliance formed in 2018 with several unique specs.
The 24-70mm has always been the most universal focal length to have in a shooting kit. With this new lens, joining SIGMA and Panasonic, Leica expands the offer of 24-70mm f/2.8 zooms for L-Mount cameras. Same as the existing two L-Mount 24-70mm f/2.8 lenses, the Leica 24-70mm also does NOT have optical image stabilization. The lack of the optical IS helped in keeping the lens reasonably low-weight at 856g (1.9lbs). Considering that almost all new full-frame cameras come with a stabilized sensor.
The optical design of the lens consists of 19 elements in 15 groups. A total of three elements feature aspherical surfaces on both sides. According to Leica, nine specialist-glass elements with anomalous partial dispersion provide chromatic correction across the entire focal range. The minimum focusing distance is 18cm from the sensor plane (at the shortest focal length) and 38cm (at the longest focal length).
The internal focus is based on a single, lightweight lens element, and utilizes a quiet stepper motor to deliver fast and precise autofocus. As Leica further states, with the lens’ robust metal body and ingress protection against water spray and dust, the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24–70 f/2.8 ASPH. can be used in harsh environmental conditions. The aperture of the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24–70 f/2.8 ASPH. comprises 11 blades and it is available between f/2.8 and f/22. The lens has an 82mm front filter thread for circular filters.
Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm f/2.8 ASPH. – Key Specs:
- The angle of view (diagonal, horizontal, vertical): @24mm: 82.3° / 72.1° / 51.8°, @70mm: 35.3° / 29.6° / 20.0°
- Number of elements/groups: 19/15
- Number of aspherical lenses/surfaces: 3/6
- Position of entrance pupil in front of the bayonet flange: @24mm: 88.6mm, @70mm: 57.1mm
- Focusing – Working range: @24mm: 0.18m to infinity, @70mm: 0.38m to infinity
- Focusing – Smallest object field @24mm: 69 x 104mm, @70mm: 108 x 162mm
- Focusing – Largest reproduction ratio: @24mm: 1:2.9, @70mm: 1:4.5
- Aperture: Electronically controlled iris, setting with the camera clickwheel control, setting range from f/2.8 to f/22
- Bayonet/sensor format: Leica L-bayonet, full-frame 35mm format
- Filter thread: E82
- Dimensions and weight: Length to bayonet flange – 123mm, Largest diameter – 88mm, Weight – 856g
As well as comfortably exceeding expectations at its highest resolution, it showed remarkable consistency in resolution across almost all aperture settings and focal lengths. This lens is only likely to be of interest to owners of the Leica SL camera, like the camera, it is solidly built and a very good imaging performer.
For more information on Movies, Cinema, Lifestyle, Content, and Corporate Video Production you can always trust Film District Dubai. We create inspiring contents that work for Consumer & Luxury brands, Property & Construction, Travel & Hospitality, Food & Beverage, and Sports.
