Leica’s first new camera of 2026 is the SL3-P Mirrorless Camera, and they have also announced two new lenses, the APO-Macro-Elmarit-SL 100mm f/2.8 and the Summilux-SL 50mm f/1.4 ASPH.
Leica is claiming that the SL3-P is the most advanced full-frame camera in the company’s history, and that it provides cinema-level video performance to match the Leica photographic pedigree.
Key features
- 44.9MP Full-Frame BSI CMOS Sensor
- Hybrid AF System with Subject Detection
- 8K, 7.2K, 6K, 4K, C4K & FHD 10-Bit Recording
- Internal 8K Open Gate, ProRes & HDMI-Raw
- 40 fps Shooting + 176MP Multishot Mode
- 5-Axis Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization
- 5.76m-Dot 0.78x-Mag. EyeRes OLED EVF
- 3.2″ 2.3m-Dot Tilting Touchscreen LCD
- IP54 Weather Sealing, Customizable UI
- CFexpress Type B & SD UHS-II Card Slots
Video Features
The camera supports 8.1K Open Gate recording using the full 3:2 sensor area, allowing filmmakers to capture the maximum amount of image data while retaining the freedom to crop for cinematic widescreen, vertical social media content, or traditional 16:9 delivery.

The camera can record internally in Apple ProRes up to 5.8K, 8K at up to 30 frames per second, 5.9K at up to 60p, and full-sensor 4K capture at 120p.
| H.265 Long GOP/MOV 4:2:0 8/10-Bit 8064 x 5376 at 23.98/24.00 fps (300 Mb/s) 7200 x 4800 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97 fps (300 Mb/s) 7680 x 4320 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97 fps (300 Mb/s) 8128 x 4288 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97 fps (300 Mb/s) 6432 x 4288 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97 fps (300 Mb/s) 5888 x 3312 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97 fps (200 to 300 Mb/s) 4096 x 2160 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/30.00/47.95/48.00/59.94/60.00/ 100/119.88/120 fps (200 to 300 Mb/s) 3840 x 2160 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/30.00/47.95/48.00/59.94/60.00/100 /119.88/120 fps (100 to 150 Mb/s) 1920 x 1440 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/50/59.94 fps (8.5 to 12.5 Mb/s) 1920 x 1280 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/50/59.94 fps (9.5 to 13.5 Mb/s) 2048 x 1080 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/50/59.94 fps (8.5 to 11.5 Mb/s) 1920 x 1080 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/50/59.94 fps (7.5 to 10.5 Mb/s) 1920 x 1080 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/30.00/47.95/48.00/59.94/60.00/100/ 119.88/120 fps (100 to 150 Mb/s) H.265 Long GOP/MP4 4:2:0 10-Bit 7680 x 4320 at 23.98/25/29.97 fps (300 Mb/s) 3840 x 2160 at 50/59.94 fps (100 Mb/s)* *Sensor Crops During Recording at Max Frame Rates ProRes 422 HQ 5760 x 3040 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97 fps (1539 to 1924 Mb/s) 4736 x 3552 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97 fps (1479 to 1848 Mb/s) 4096 x 2160 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/50/59.94 fps (788 to 1944 Mb/s) 1920 x 1080 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/50/59.94/100/119.88/120 fps (788 to 1944 Mb/s) H.264 ALL-Intra/MOV 4:2:2 10-Bit 4096 x 2160 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/47.95/48.00/50/59.94 fps (150 to 800 Mb/s) 3840 x 2160 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/30.00/47.95/48.00/59.94/60.00/100/ 119.88/120 fps (100 to 150 Mb/s) 1920 x 1080 at 23.98/24.00/25/29.97/30.00/47.95/48.00/59.94/60.00/100/ 119.88/120 fps (100 to 400 Mb/s) H.264 Long GOP/MP4 4:2:0 8/10-Bit 3840 x 2160 at 23.98/25/29.97 fps (100 Mb/s) 1920 x 1080 at 23.98/25/29.97/50/59.94 fps (24 to 28 Mb/s)* *Sensor Crops During Recording at Max Frame Rates |
Raw via HDMI
8128 x 5418 at 23.98 fps
7232 x 4820 at 25/29.97 fps*
8128 x 4302 at 23.98/25/29.97 fps
4752 x 3568 at 23.98/25/29.97/50/59.94 fps
*Sensor Crops During Output
There is false Color and HDMI Mirroring supports external monitors without altering the camera’s display. Included are Leica Pure and Leica Cine LUTs. For productions requiring maximum flexibility, HDMI RAW output supports external recording devices.
Sensor

The Leica SL3-P Mirrorless Camera pairs a newly developed 44.9MP backside-illuminated (BSI) full-frame sensor (8144 x 5424), Leica’s fastest hybrid autofocus system, and the most advanced video capabilities ever integrated into an SL camera. The BSI architecture positions the sensor’s circuitry behind the light-sensitive photodiodes, which Leica claims increases light-gathering efficiency while reducing image noise and improving overall image clarity.
Supporting the new sensor is Leica’s fastest sensor readout architecture to date, operating up to 156 percent faster than previous SL-System cameras. Faster readout speeds improve overall camera responsiveness while significantly reducing rolling shutter distortion during electronic shutter operation and video capture.
| ISO/Gain Sensitivity | Photo Dual Base: 400* Native in Manual Mode: 50 to 200,000 Native in Auto Mode: 100 to 200,000 *Base ISO Is Dependent on the selected color space Video Dual Base: 400* Native in Manual Mode: 50 to 100,000 Native in Auto Mode: 100 to 100,000 *Base ISO Is Dependent on the selected color space |
AF System
The SL3-P features Leica’s fastest and most intelligent autofocus system, combining phase detection, contrast detection, and object detection autofocus into a single hybrid focusing architecture. Unlike traditional autofocus systems that rely on a single focusing method, Leica’s hybrid approach continuously evaluates scene information to determine the most effective focusing strategy.
Supported by 819 selectable autofocus points distributed across the image area, the system rapidly acquires focus while continuously refining subject accuracy as scenes evolve. This combination of focusing technologies allows the camera to deliver reliable performance across everything from portrait sessions and studio work to wildlife photography and fast-paced sporting events.
Advanced machine-learning algorithms that analyze subject movement in real time. Intelligent subject recognition improves tracking accuracy while reducing focus hunting, allowing the camera to maintain sharp focus even when photographing unpredictable movement or rapidly changing compositions.
Ergonomics
Its robust construction is claimed to combine rigidity with refined ergonomics. An IP54-rated weather-resistant design protects the camera against dust and water splashes, allowing photographers and filmmakers to continue working confidently in unpredictable outdoor environments.

The camera has a tilting 3.2″ touchscreen LCD screen, and a status display (Top): 1.2″ LCD screen.

The Leica has redesigned the SL3-P’s user interface with efficiency in mind. Separate operating environments for still photography and video reduce menu complexity while allowing each mode to retain its own customized settings. Frequently used controls can be assigned to programmable buttons, enabling photographers to tailor camera operation to individual shooting styles.
The interface also adapts automatically to both horizontal and vertical shooting orientations, ensuring exposure information, focus settings, and recording indicators remain clearly visible regardless of camera position.
The camera weighs 1.7 lb / 768 g (Body Only), and it has physical dimensions of 5.96 x 4.25 x 3.3″ / 151.45 x 108.05 x 84.6 mm.
Memory Cards & Interfaces
The SL3-P features dual memory card slots, accepting one CFexpress Type B card alongside one SD UHS-II card. The CFexpress interface supports sustained burst shooting, high-bitrate video recording, and rapid file transfers, while flexible recording options allow photographers to configure backup, overflow, or separate RAW and JPEG recording.
There is a USB 3.1 Gen 2 for high-speed data transfer and tethered operation, a full-size HDMI Type A port for external recording and monitoring, microphone and headphone connections for professional audio monitoring, and a multifunction accessory interface supporting additional production accessories.
| Media/Memory Card Slot | Slot 1: CFexpress Type B Slot 2: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II) |
| Video I/O | 1x HDMI Output |
| Audio I/O | 1x 1/8″ / 3.5 mm TRS Stereo Headphone Output 1x 1/8″ / 3.5 mm TRS Stereo Microphone Input |
| Power I/O | 1x USB-C Input |
| Other I/O | 1x USB-C 3.1/3.2 Gen 2 (Data) Output (Shared with Power Input) |
Camera Connectivity
Leica redesigned the camera’s operating system to separate photography and video into dedicated workspaces.

Distinct red (photo) and yellow (video) interface accents provide immediate visual confirmation of the selected shooting mode, while the display automatically rotates when the camera is positioned vertically.
Professional tethering support further integrates the SL3-P into studio and commercial production environments. Native compatibility with Adobe Lightroom Classic and Capture One enables photographers to review images instantly on a connected computer while maintaining complete control over camera settings.
As collaborative production continues to evolve, the SL3-P introduces native Camera-to-Cloud functionality through Adobe Frame.io.
- Images and video files can be uploaded directly from the camera, allowing editors, clients, and production teams to begin reviewing content while a shoot is still in progress.
- This significantly reduces turnaround times and simplifies collaboration for remote productions. Wireless connectivity is equally comprehensive.
Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth work alongside the Leica FOTOS app to provide remote camera control, wireless image transfer, firmware updates, and mobile workflow integration.
The SL3-P also incorporates Content Credentials technology, allowing photographers to embed tamper-resistant metadata directly into image files. Developed through the Content Authenticity Initiative, this technology helps verify image authenticity and supports intellectual property protection as digital content continues to evolve.
Pricing & Availability
- SL3-P Mirrorless Camera (body only): $6,690 USD
- SL3-P Vario Kit w/28-70mm Lens: $7,790 USD
- SL3-P Vario Kit w/24-70mm Lens: $8,390 USD
- SL3-P Vario Kit w/24-70mm & 70-200mm Lenses: $10,995 USD
APO-Macro-Elmarit-SL 100mm f/2.8 $2,799 USD
Key features
- Full Frame | f/2.8 to f/22
- 1:1 Magnification Macro Prime
- Minimum Focus of 11.4″
- Apochromatic Correction
- AquaDura Coating
- Dust and Moisture-Resistant Construction
- Compatible with 1.4x & 2x Extenders
Paying homage to the classic R-mount lens released in 1987, the Leica APO-Macro-Elmarit-SL 100mm f/2.8 Lens brings Leica legacy into the modern SL-System as its first full-frame apochromatic macro lens. Combining true 1:1 macro capability with the versatility of a premium telephoto focal length.
The 100mm f/2.8 offers a close focusing distance of 11.4″ and a maximum reproduction ratio of 1:1. Advanced apochromatic correction minimizes chromatic aberrations and ensures exceptional sharpness, contrast, and color accuracy from edge to edge.
Summilux-SL 50mm f/1.4 ASPH $4,950 USD
Key features
- Full Frame | f/1.4 to f/16
- Fast, Lightweight Normal Lens
- Precision Voice-Coil Drive AF System
- Minimum Focus of 1.6′
- Two Aspherical Elements
- 11-Blade Aperture
- AquaDura Coating
- IP54-Rated
The Leica Summilux-SL 50mm f/1.4 ASPH. Lens is the second installment of a beloved focal length and is designed to deliver maximum optical performance. This lens has a fast f/1.4 maximum aperture to excel in low-light conditions while maintaining a soft, natural bokeh, and an overall rendering inspired by the Summilux-M 50mm. This fast aperture and versatile 50mm perspective make it ideal for portrait photography, still life and product photography, and travel photography. The physical design is updated to be more compact and lighter as well.
The 50mm f/1.4 introduces an advanced focusing architecture designed for speed, precision, and discretion. It’s fast and quiet Voice Coil Motor (VCM) Drive moves the focusing group with exceptional efficiency, utilizing a moving mass of 1.6 oz and acceleration of approximately 131 feet per second.

The compact dimensions of the 50mm f/1.4 are made possible through advanced manufacturing techniques and Leica’s expertise in optical design. Two in-house produced aspherical elements, premium glass types, and eleven aperture blades work together to create outstanding image quality from a close focusing distance of just 1.6′. Optical distortion is minimized through lens design and can be easily corrected digitally when required.

Housed within a precision-crafted full-metal body, the lens is protected against dust and water splashes to IP54 standards. AquaDura coating adds additional resilience in demanding conditions.














