Mark Ellington
Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-90mm Lens Combo
Introduction
The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-90mm f/2.8-4 ASPH. Lens + UV Filter Combo is a premium offering from the renowned manufacturer Leica, known for its precision engineering and high-quality optics. This lens is part of the L Mount system, designed to cater to professional photographers and serious enthusiasts alike. With its versatile zoom range and advanced optical design, it is ideal for a variety of photographic applications, from landscapes to portraits.
Product Appearance and Design
The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-90mm lens boasts a sleek, modern design that reflects its high-end nature. Constructed with a robust metal housing, the lens feels solid and well-balanced in hand. Its matte black finish not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also minimizes reflections, making it a practical choice for outdoor shooting. Notably, the lens features a dual focus ring system, allowing for intuitive manual focus adjustments. Additionally, the lens sports a lens hood that integrates seamlessly into the design, providing extra protection against flare and physical damage.
Key Features and Specifications
- Manufacturer: Leica
- Model: Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-90mm f/2.8-4 ASPH.
- Part Number: LE249028VE-22
- Aperture Range: f/2.8 to f/22
- Elements: Four aspherical elements and 11 anomalous partial dispersion elements
- Image Format: Full-frame
- Price: $6399.95
Experience Using the Product
During my time with the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-90mm lens, I had the opportunity to test it in various scenarios, including landscape photography, street photography, and portrait sessions. The lens performed impressively across the board. The autofocus was quick and accurate, even in low-light situations, and the bokeh created by the lens was smooth and pleasing, particularly at the wider apertures. The zoom range offered great flexibility, allowing me to frame shots without needing to change lenses frequently.
In landscape photography, the sharpness of the images was remarkable, with excellent detail retention from edge to edge. When shooting portraits, the lens delivered beautiful color rendition and contrast, elevating the overall image quality. The UV filter, included in the combo, provided an extra layer of protection while having a negligible effect on image quality.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional build quality with a premium feel
- Versatile zoom range suitable for various photography styles
- Fast and accurate autofocus performance
- Impressive optical quality with minimal distortion
- Beautiful bokeh and color rendition
Cons
- High price point may not be suitable for all budgets
- Weight may be a concern for extended shooting sessions
- No weather sealing, which could limit use in harsh conditions
Conclusion
Overall, the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-90mm f/2.8-4 ASPH. Lens + UV Filter Combo is a standout product that exemplifies Leica’s commitment to quality and performance. With its robust construction, versatile functionality, and outstanding optical capabilities, this lens is well worth considering for professional photographers seeking a reliable and high-performing lens for their L Mount system. While the price may be steep, the investment pays off in the form of exceptional image quality and versatility. For those serious about their craft, this lens is undoubtedly a worthy addition to any photography toolkit.
