The compact nature of the D-Lux 4 means it can be with you all the time. But despite its compact size, it offers top Leica quality and gives the photographer plenty of artistic freedom. The D-Lux 4 is ideal, whether for subjects composed with lots of forethought or for spontaneous reportage.
The LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens 1:2.0-2.8/5.1-12.8 ASPH is a high-aperture lens for digital compact cameras that allows the real enthusiast to work with an open shutter. Its high speed makes the LEICA D-LUX 4 ideal for available light exposures. Whether in poor light or for selective use of field depth, the lens of the LEICA D-LUX 4 gives the photographer scope for highly individual picture composition. The aspherical zoom lens with a focusing range of 24-60 mm opens up new creative options in reportage photography. The lens design consists of eight elements, of which four are aspherical. These are matched individually to the camera sensor, working in harmony with the electronics and software, to produce stunningly brilliant pictures in true-to-life colours.
At a standard resolution of 10.1 megapixels, the overlarge size of the 1/1.63" CCD image sensor increases image quality distinctly. The smallest details of the subject are reproduced exactly. The D-Lux 4 can take photos in all three formats (4:3/3:2/16:9) to suit the particular recording or playback situation. On the 3" LCD monitor with a resolution of 460,000 pixels, pictures can be viewed and assessed in excellent quality before and after they are taken. Leica Camera AG has developed its own unique colour matching, contrast and picture definition profile which produces digital characteristics complimentary to Leica M film photography.
The ergonomic layout of controls and intuitive operating system make it a pleasure to handle the D-Lux 4. Focus, shutter speed, stops and exposure override can all be set manually with the joystick giving the real enthusiast scope for highly individual picture composition. Of course you can also use the intelligent automatic mode: Depending on the subject and photographic situation, the camera automatically selects the best mode from Scene Select, either macro, landscape, portrait, night portrait, or night scene. The professional software Capture One 4 (RAW data converter) makes sure that the RAW data supplied by the CCD sensor is "processed" in optimum quality. Data recording can be in Fine, Standard, RAW or combinations. The D-Lux 4 is also prepared for photos in HDTV format with a HD port for TV connection.
The D-Lux 4 is a real Leica, not just in its design, its looks, and its performance, but also its being the first digital compact camera that can be used with an extensive range of accessories - just like a system camera.
