Mark Ellington
Leica Summicron-M 35mm f2 ASPH Lens
Introduction
The Leica Summicron-M 35mm f/2 ASPH Lens is a high-performance prime lens manufactured by Leica, a brand renowned for its excellence in optical engineering and quality craftsmanship. This lens falls under the category of rangefinder lenses, specifically designed for Leica M series cameras. With an intended use for both street photography and portraiture, it offers versatility for photographers who appreciate sharpness, contrast, and beautiful bokeh in their images.
Product Overview
Launched on August 1, 2019, the Leica Summicron-M 35mm f/2 ASPH Lens (Part Number: 11673) features a sleek black finish that complements the aesthetic of Leica’s cameras. This lens is a favorite among photographers who demand high-quality optics in a compact design, making it ideal for everyday use in various photographic scenarios.
Appearance and Design
The Summicron-M 35mm f/2 ASPH lens boasts a classic Leica design that is both elegant and functional. The body is made from high-quality metal, contributing to its durability and premium feel. The smooth focusing ring and well-defined aperture clicks provide tactile feedback, enhancing the user experience. One unique design feature is its aspherical lens element, which minimizes distortion and aberrations, ensuring exceptional image quality. The compact size makes it easily portable, fitting comfortably into a camera bag without adding excessive weight.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 35mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/2
- Lens Design: Aspherical elements for improved image quality
- Part Number: 11673
- Color: Black
- Warranty: Manufacturer warranty included
Experience Using the Product
In various shooting scenarios, the Leica Summicron-M 35mm f/2 ASPH lens delivers an impressive performance. During street photography sessions, the lens excels in low-light conditions, providing sharp images with beautiful contrast. The bokeh produced is creamy and aesthetically pleasing, allowing subjects to stand out against softly blurred backgrounds. When used for environmental portraits, the lens captures intricate details and textures, making it a favorite for photographers looking to convey emotion and character.
While shooting landscapes, the lens performs admirably, maintaining edge-to-edge sharpness and minimal distortion even at wide apertures. Additionally, its compact size makes it easy to carry, allowing for spontaneous captures without the burden of heavy gear. However, in some situations, the f/2 maximum aperture can lead to increased depth of field, which might not be ideal for all creative visions.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional image quality with sharpness and contrast.
- Compact and lightweight design for easy handling.
- Beautiful bokeh for creative portraits.
- Durable construction with a premium feel.
- Smooth focusing ring for precise control.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to other 35mm lenses.
- Limited maximum aperture can restrict creative depth of field options.
- Requires a Leica M camera for optimal use.
Conclusion
Overall, the Leica Summicron-M 35mm f/2 ASPH Lens stands out as a photographic masterpiece that combines exceptional optical performance with elegant design. While it does come at a premium price and has some limitations in terms of aperture flexibility, the quality of images produced is undeniably remarkable. For photographers who value sharpness, aesthetic appeal, and a lens that complements the Leica M system, this lens is a worthy investment. Whether for street photography or intimate portraits, the Summicron-M 35mm f/2 ASPH will undoubtedly enhance your photographic journey.
