Today at Photokina, Leica has announced a wide range of accessories for the new Leica M camera:
Solms, Germany (September 17, 2012) – Leica Camera presents new accessories for the Leica M to increase the potential uses of the camera and go far beyond the classical capabilities of rangefinder photography. These latest additions include the Leica R-Adapter M, the Leica EVF2 electronic viewfinder, the multifunctional handgrip-M with optional finger loops and the Leica Microphone Adapter Set.
For the first time ever in the history of the Leica M-System, the R-Adapter M enables almost all Leica R-Lenses to be mounted on the new Leica M. Users can access a list of 20 dedicated profiles, including calibrated imaging workflows and Exif lens recognition, for a range of R-Lenses covering wide-angles, telephoto, zoom and macro lenses. This comprehensive portfolio of lenses opens up new potential for Leica M photographers, such as video recording with Leica R zooms.
The new high-resolution Leica electronic Visoflex viewfinder (EVF2) has a resolution of 1.4 megapixels and a 90° swivel action for capturing images from unusual angles. When mounted on the camera it displays all significant exposure parameters and allows precise subject assessment, especially in brightly lit surroundings. In combination with the R-Adapter, R-Lenses and the viewfinder, the Leica M can be used independently from its monitor in the same way as an SLR camera.
With the new multifunctional handgrip-M with integrated GPS module, users can save exposure location information in the EXIF image data (geotagging) and later sort and display images according to location. To permit the use of a separate flash unit when an accessory viewfinder is mounted on the camera, the multifunctional handgrip-M also provides a dedicated SCA hot shoe that communicates with the camera in the same way as its own hot shoe. The Leica SCA Adapter Set, comprised of a flash bar and a spiral cable with a hot shoe, is also available for this purpose. The multifunctional handgrip also provides a socket for a remote power supply and a DIN/ISO X-sync socket for studio flash systems. An optional remote power unit (DC Adapter) is also available. The Leica M can also be connected directly to a computer workstation via the handgrip’s integrated USB socket, allowing full remote control of the camera with the ‘Leica Image Shuttle’ software package and the transfer of image files directly to the computer by USB cable. The multifunctional handgrip-M is a valuable aid to safe and steady handling of the camera, particularly when shooting with heavier R-lenses. The optional finger loops (available in sizes S, M and L) further enhance safe and steady handling of the camera and lens system. These can also be used in combination with the handgrip-M without additional functions.
As a special accessory for the 1080p Full HD video capability of the Leica M, the range also includes a Leica Microphone Adapter Set consisting of an adapter and a stereo microphone. The adapter also allows the connection of other microphones.
An additional offering is the ever-ready case, specifically created for the new Leica M. The accessories will be available from Leica dealers in early 2013.
Pricing for the new Leica M Accessories is as follows:
Leica M Multi-functional handgrip: $895
SCA Adapter Set for Multifunctional handgrip M: $385
AC Adapter for Multi-functional Handgrip M: $285
Finger Loop for Multi-functional handgrip M and Handgrip M: $160
Leica Microphone Adapter Set: $285
Leica R Adapter M: $310
Is the EVF2 included with the M. If it is optional what does it cost?