I just stumbled across this on Leica’s website. I was surprised because I would have expected this discussed here, probably in some depth. The Leica S1

Is this new? Or is it so expensive even Leica photographers don’t bother to discuss it? Is it a camera? Or a copier?

The specs are way out there: 10+ stops dynamic range, 6000x6000 resolution, uses M/R lenses and even those of other makers.

Can anyone clue me in?

Thanks,

-- Jeff Stuart (jstuart1@tampabay.rr.com), September 25, 2001

Answers

Jeff

It is a studio only camera with, I assume, a scanning back, so it is not exactly a camera you can take around with you like a Canon D30. I think this is why it attracts no attention. I get the impression that if you had a studio and needed a digital solution you are more likely to pick a digital back for your 'blad/RZ/Rollei etc than get the S1.

-- Robin Smith (smith_robin@hotmail.com), September 25, 2001.

As Robin said, it is a scanning back, with the possibility to mount lenses of various manufacturers via adapters. Whether it meets "highest demands in drum scanner quality" as the Leica states (here) I don't know, although resolution of the S1 Pro doesn't exclude it. If you're dealing with non-moving subjects and use continous light sources, you can shoot basically anything with it, and as it can be used on a Sinar, it does compete with Lightphase & co. to some extent.

-- Oliver Schrinner (piraya@hispavista.com), September 26, 2001.