Camera
Leica just released a surprising accessory for diehard mobile photography
| Photo: Leica |
With its latest announcement, Leica is furthering its focus on mobile photography, adding a new accessory to its lineup. The company designed the Leica Lux Grip specifically for iPhones, following up on the June release of the Leica Lux iPhone app. The grip is strictly for Leica lovers, as it will only work with Leica’s iPhone app; controls will not transfer to the default iPhone camera app or any other third-party options.
Leica says the Lux Grip is “similar to a classic Leica camera in terms of its handling and feel.” It goes even further and explains that all of the grip’s “physical controls consistently express Leica’s design philosophy and conjure up the familiar experience of using a professional camera.” Any grip will make for a more camera-like experience and make taking photographs with a phone a bit more ergonomic, so users who focus on mobile photography could certainly benefit from it.
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| Photo: Leica |
The grip relies on a magnetic MagSafe connection rather than a case-like design, which is typical in other phone grips. The magnetic attachment makes switching between portrait and landscape orientations easy while maintaining a comfortable grip with easy controls. Plus, removing the grip when it’s not needed and returning to a traditional phone form factor is straightforward. That also means that when users purchase a new iPhone, there’s no need to buy an entirely new grip specific to that phone.
The Lux Grip uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connectivity to communicate with a phone’s camera, allowing users to control camera functionality without digging into phone menus. That includes a two-stage shutter release that, like cameras, uses light pressure to focus and a full press to take a photo. There’s also a button to switch between shooting modes, two customizable buttons and a dial for adjusting settings.
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| Photo: Leica |
For those who want to go all out, Leica also released a leather case designed just for the Lux Grip, which features an AirTag holder.
The Leica Lux Grip is available for $329 on Leica’s website and B&H. The purchase includes a year of the Leica LUX Pro subscription.
Buy now:
Leica Camera AG is launching the Leica LUX Grip for the iPhone today.
The camera grip impresses with its intuitive operation and high-quality manufacturing while, at the same time, setting new standards for photographic precision using a smartphone. The Leica LUX Grip is similar to a classic Leica camera in terms of its handling and feel. Its clear design, sophisticated operating concept and easy attachment – guaranteed by secure magnetic MagSafe technology – improve the ergonomics and functionality of smartphone photography, taking it to a new level. The LUX Grip and iPhone communicate via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and are perfectly complemented by the Leica LUX app.
All of the LUX Grip’s physical controls consistently express Leica’s design philosophy and conjure up the familiar experience of using a professional camera. The 2-stage shutter release focusses with light pressure and starts shooting when fully pressed down. A button allows you to quickly switch between shooting modes. Two control elements can be individually assigned and customised via the Leica LUX app. While one button provides quick access to frequently used functions, the easy-to-grip control dial enables the precise selection of camera settings – such as zoom, aperture, shutter speed and exposure compensation. This means that photographers have all the essential aspects of image composition in their own hands, even when using a smartphone.
The Leica LUX app rounds off the photographic experience by adding the unmistakable image and colour aesthetics of legendary Leica lenses. The bokeh effect of the Summilux-M or Noctilux-M can be used to deliberately emphasise features while retaining full control over exposure, ISO and shutter speed. Unique Leica Looks – from Vivid to classic Black&White – expand the artistic palette, lending digital photography an analogue character. The Leica LUX app forms a perfect symbiosis with the LUX Grip. The full version of the app is included for one year with every Grip product registration.
The LUX Grip also sets the tone when it comes to sustainability. Thanks to its modular design, the Grip can be easily reused with all electronic components every time you change your iPhone. Only the MagSafe base plate has to be replaced. Weighing just 130 grams, the Leica LUX Grip is comfortable to hold and is equally suitable for left- and right-handed users. Its powerful battery lets you take up to 1,000 shots and will be ready for use again in a flash with a charging time of 2 hours via USB-C.
The Leica LUX Grip is now available in selected Leica Stores, in the Leica Online Store and from specialist retailers. The recommended retail price is EUR 300 incl. VAT.
| Nikon Nikkor Z 35mm F1.2 pre-production | F1.2 | 1/125 sec | ISO 64 |
Earlier this week, Nikon announced the Nikkor Z 35mm F1.2 S, a wide-angle lens with a fast aperture. We were able to spend a few hours on the streets of Seattle with a pre-production model, and got some shots that should give you an idea of what this lens is about.
A few caveats to keep in mind – given that the photos were shot with a pre-production lens, they may not be exactly indicative of how a production model would perform. Our standard lens gallery procedure also involves processing the images through Capture One, giving us precise control over what corrections are and are not applied. However, the images in this sample gallery are straight out of camera JPEGs, and thus may have corrections that wouldn’t usually be applied to images in our sample galleries.
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This image depicts the Sony E-mount version of the AF 28mm F4.5 lens, though the size is nearly identical.
Photo: Viltrox |
After a playful bit of marketing, Viltrox announced a new flavor of its ultra-thin AF 28mm F4.5 lens. It first made the lens available for Sony E-mount cameras last fall, and now it will also be available for X-mount cameras.
Viltrox calls this teeny offering a chip lens. That nickname is in reference to how thin it is, drawing similarities with potato chips, and does not pertain to any sort of technology inside the lens. To stay on theme, the company’s teaser for the announcement featured a bag of chips with AF 28mm F4.5 XF above it, much like the Lays potato chip flavor announcements.
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| Image: Viltrox |
The Viltrox AF 28mm F4.5 is a unique lens because of its diminutive size. It weighs a measly 60g (2.1oz) and is only 15.3mm (0.6in) thick. To keep the size so minuscule, there are some compromises. Most notably, it uses a constant F4.5 aperture. That means no adjusting the aperture based on lighting conditions. Additionally, it lacks a manual focus ring, so you’ll be stuck entirely with autofocus. It also isn’t compatible with filters.
The optical design is made up of six elements in six groups, including two ED and two aspherical elements. Voltrox says it will deliver “sharp images, vibrant colors, and stunning starburst effects.” It uses a VCM for autofocus, which Viltrox promises will be “fast, precise, and silent.” Additionally, the lens features an integrated lens cap with a slide for opening and closing the cover and a USB-C port for firmware updates.
The AF 28mm F4.5 XF is available in black and white colorways for $99.
OM System has announced the the M.Zuiko Digital 17mm F1.8 II and the M.Zuiko Digital 25mm F1.8 II primes. Both are refreshed versions of existing lenses, maintaining the same optical formulae in both instances.
The 17mm F1.8 II gains a degree of weather sealing, earning the IPX1 ingress protection rating. This is a pretty low rating, indicating that it hasn’t been tested for dust/particle ingress and that vertically falling drops of water shouldn’t have a negative effect. OM System describes this as “splash-proof and dust-resistant” but it comes at the cost of the removal of the manual focus clutch: a retractable ring that switched the focus mode when used on Olympus/OM System cameras.
As with the previous version the 17mm F1.8 II offers a 34mm equiv field of view and is constructed using nine elements in six groups, including two aspherical elements and a high refractive index element.
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Diagram showing the sealed points on the OM System M.Zuiko Digital 17mm F1.8 II, hinting at the challenges required to achieve an IPX1 rating with the moving focus switch ring on the older design.
Rendering: OM System |
The Mk II lens also gains OM System’s ‘ZERO’ anti-reflective coating. Removing the focus clutch ring reduces the weight from 120g (4.2oz) to 112g (4.0oz). Other than this, it’s the same as before, with the minimum focus distance and, presumably, the sharpness, unchanged.
There’s less change with the 50mm-equiv M.Zuiko Digital 25mm F1.8 II. The Mk I had no focus clutch/switch, so in this instance the updated weather sealing (to IPX1) makes the new lens heavier. The Mark II weighs 156g (5.5oz), rather than the 136g (4.8oz) of the 2014 version.
It too keeps the existing arrangement of nine elements in seven groups, including two aspherical elements.
Both lenses will be available from late February 2025. The OM System M.Zuiko Digital 17mm F2.8 II will sell for a recommended price of $550, up $50 on the 2012 prive, while the OM System M.Zuiko Digital 25mm F1.8 II will have a recommended sales price of $500, up $130 over 2014’s Mk 1 launch price.
OM SYSTEM Expands Prime Lens Lineup with the Splash & Dust-Proof M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 17mm F1.8 II and 25mm F1.8 II
Versatile Lenses Designed for Landscapes, City Snapshots, and Portraits
BETHLEHEM, PA, February 6, 2025 – OM Digital Solutions proudly announces the launch of two premium prime lenses, the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 17mm F1.8 II (35mm equivalent: 34mm) and M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 25mm F1.8 II (35mm equivalent: 50mm). Developed for the OM SYSTEM lineup and compliant with the Micro Four Thirds System standard, these lenses will be available for purchase beginning in late February 2025.
Designed to combine exceptional imaging performance with robust splash and dust-proof durability, the 17mm F1.8 II and 25mm F1.8 II are compact and lightweight, making them the perfect companions for photographers on the go. With their wide f/1.8 apertures and versatile focal lengths, these lenses are well-suited for capturing stunning landscapes, dynamic cityscapes, and striking portraits.
The combination of cutting-edge optical technology, intuitive handling, and weather-sealed construction makes these lenses invaluable tools for photographers seeking creative flexibility and uncompromising reliability.
Key Features of the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL Prime Lens II Series:
M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 17mm F1.8 II
- Wide-angle lens with a large-diameter f/1.8 aperture for stunning bokeh and
pan-focus capabilities - IPX1-rated splash-proof performance and dust-proof design for reliable
performance in challenging environments
M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 25mm F1.8 II
- Standard focal length lens with natural perspectives and exceptional imaging quality
- Compact, IPX1-rated splash-proof performance and dust-resistant design for enhanced portability and
durability
The combination of cutting-edge optical technology, intuitive handling, and weather-sealed construction makes these lenses invaluable tools for photographers seeking creative flexibility and uncompromising reliability.
Pricing & availability for OM SYSTEM M.ZUIKO DIGITAL Prime Lens II Series:
M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 17mm F1.8 II
The M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 17mm F1.8 II Lens will be available beginning in late February 2025, at a suggested retail price of $549.99 (US)/$769.99 (CAD).
M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 25mm F1.8 II
The M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 25mm F1.8 II Lens will be available beginning in late February 2025, at a suggested retail price of $499.99 (US)/$699.99 (CAD)
OM SYSTEM M.ZUIKO DIGITAL Prime Lens II Series Features & Technology Detail
M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 17mm F1.8 II
The 17mm F1.8 II lens delivers superb optical performance in a compact, lightweight body measuring just 37.6 mm in length and weighing 112 g. It features a high-precision configuration of nine elements in six groups, including a DSA (Dual Super Aspheric) lens and HR (High Refractive index) lens. The ZERO (Zuiko Extra-low Reflection Optical) coating reduces ghosting and flaring, ensuring crisp, clear images even in challenging lighting conditions.
- Creative Aperture Control: The wide f/1.8 aperture allows for stunning bokeh effects, making subjects stand out, while the deep depth of field typical of wide-angle lenses enables sharp focus across the entire frame, from foreground to background.
- Weather-Resistant Durability: With IPX1-rated splash-proof performance and dust-resistant design, photographers can confidently shoot in adverse weather without worrying about their equipment.
M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 25mm F1.8 II
This standard focal-length lens, with a natural 50mm1 equivalent angle of view, replicates the perspective of the human eye. Its optical design includes nine elements in seven groups, featuring two aspherical lenses for optimal performance. The lightweight metal construction measures just 42 mm in length and weighs only 156g.
- Versatile Everyday Lens: Perfect for still life, snapshots, and portraits, its bright f/1.8 aperture ensures sharp low-light performance and beautiful bokeh for creative compositions.
- Reliable in Any Setting: With IPX1-rated splash-proof performance and dust-resistant design, photographers can focus on their craft in any environment, from rainy streets to rugged outdoor adventures.
Designed for Every Photographer
Both lenses offer fast, quiet autofocus (AF) thanks to a MSC (Movie & Still Compatible) mechanism. Combined with the high-performance image stabilization of OM SYSTEM camera bodies, these lenses make capturing sharp, professional-quality stills and videos effortless.
These lenses are essential tools for photographers seeking portability, durability, and creative flexibility.
Related Accessories
LH-49B Lens Hood (bundled or sold separately): Reduces unwanted light in backlit scenes and protects the lens.
Suggested retail price: $46.99 (US)/$62.99 (CAD)
LC-46 Lens Cap (bundled or sold separately): Provides protection for the lens element.
Suggested retail price: $7.99 (US)/$10.99 (CAD)
PRF-D46 PRO Protection Filter (sold separately): Offers additional protection for the front lens element.
Suggested retail price: $66.99 (US)/$89.99 (CAD)
LSC-0811 Lens Case (sold separately): Designed for secure storage and transportation.
Suggested retail price: $26.99 (US)/$35.99 (CAD)
MCON-P02 Macro Converter (sold separately): Designed to enhance close-up capabilities of the lens.
Suggested retail price: $9.99 (US)/$9.99 (CAD)
1. 35mm equivalent
OM System M.Zuiko Digital 17mm F1.8 II & M.Zuiko Digital 25mm F1.8 II specifications
| OM System M.Zuiko Digital 17mm F1.8 II | OM System M.Zuiko Digital 25mm F1.8 II | |
|---|---|---|
| Principal specifications | ||
| Lens type | Prime lens | |
| Max Format size | FourThirds | |
| Focal length | 17 mm | 25 mm |
| Image stabilization | No | |
| Lens mount | Micro Four Thirds | |
| Aperture | ||
| Maximum aperture | F1.8 | |
| Minimum aperture | F22 | |
| Aperture ring | No | |
| Number of diaphragm blades | 7 | |
| Aperture notes | Circular aperture diaphragm | |
| Optics | ||
| Elements | 9 | |
| Groups | 6 | 7 |
| Special elements / coatings | 2 Aspherical, HR glass element | 2 aspherical elements |
| Focus | ||
| Minimum focus | 0.25 m (9.84″) | 0.24 m (9.45″) |
| Maximum magnification | 0.08× | 0.12× |
| Autofocus | Yes | |
| Motor type | Micromotor | Stepper motor |
| Full time manual | Yes | Unknown |
| Focus method | Internal | |
| Distance scale | No | |
| DoF scale | No | |
| Physical | ||
| Weight | 112 g (0.25 lb) | 156 g (0.34 lb) |
| Diameter | 58 mm (2.28″) | 56 mm (2.2″) |
| Length | 36 mm (1.42″) | 41 mm (1.61″) |
| Materials | Metal | |
| Sealing | Yes | |
| Filter thread | 46 mm | |
| Hood supplied | Yes | |
| Hood product code | LH-49B | |
| Tripod collar | No | |
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