The Executive of Leica acknowledges that selling their L-mount SL series of cameras poses more challenges compared to their other products. Despite this, they believe it is essential to remain part of the ongoing conversations within the industry.
In an interview with Amateur Photographer, Stefan Daniel, Leica’s Vice President of Photo and Technology, reveals that the company could have opted to stay out of the full-frame mirrorless camera market. However, they recognized the importance of participating in this rapidly expanding sector.
According to Daniel, the decision to enter the market was made early on in 2015 when the competition between DSLR and mirrorless cameras was still undecided. They aimed to attract new customers while maintaining the unique Leica style with simplicity in design, user-friendly operation, exceptional build quality, and image quality.
Although selling the SL series presents more challenges than their popular Q or M series, Daniel sees potential benefits. Once customers invest in the system with interchangeable lenses, they are likely to consider purchasing additional camera bodies in the future.
Leica’s digital cameras, known for their niche appeal, faced a tougher road entering the mainstream full-frame mirrorless market, unlike their established presence in the specialized market. Daniel’s acknowledgment of the difficulty reinforces the existing beliefs within the industry.
The SL series, including the recent SL3 model, may not boast the most advanced features compared to competitors. However, its target audience values Leica’s design, build quality, user-friendliness, and unique offerings over technical specifications.
Daniel emphasizes the importance of Leica’s image quality, versatile L-mount system that accommodates a wide selection of lenses beyond the Leica brand. This flexibility provides customers with diverse options for their photography needs.
The Leica SL3 is currently available for purchase at a price of $6,995, catering to photographers looking for a blend of tradition, quality, and innovation in their camera equipment.
