News

Leica has announced the new , its follow-up to the D-Lux 7 launched way back in 2018. Available from onwards, the D-Lux 8 will also mark the first time Leica’s partner Panasonic will not release a replicated design (and at a cheaper price). Leica says the D-Lux 8 aims to offer the “quintessential Leica experience” in a more compact and accessible form. At first glance, it’s easy to see the resemblance to its predecessor. But the new camera now sports and all-black finish and mimics the leathery wrap of Leica’s pricier full-frame Q series of cameras. At the heart of the D-Lux 8 is a that boasts (but with an effective resolution of 17MP) and is paired with the , which is equivalent to 24-75mm in 35mm format. Leica says the camera is designed as a compact point-and-shoot camera that is “designed to excel in a variety of shooting scenarios, from wide-angle landscapes to intimate portraits”. Other new features include a new software interface that took cues from the Q series, , and in a first for the D-Lux line, . There are other notable changes too, such as the camera now having few buttons and many of them seemingly unlabeled Ostensibly, these could be to support customisable functions for each button – just like the Q series. Oh, and gone is the mechanical on/off switch too. Alongside the camera, Leica is also introducing a range of new accessories to complement the D-Lux 8. These include hand grips, carrying straps, wrist straps, and leather protectors in various colours. For those looking to further customise their setup, additional accessories such as an automatic lens cap, soft release buttons, and a selection of bags – including hip, crossbody, and equipment bags – will also be available. Leica has priced the D-Lux 8 at and is clearly gunning after the likes of Fujifilm’s and the , which have seen a huge increase in popularity in recent years. The D-Lux remains the company’s most “budget-friendly” compact camera and could be an attractive option for those who wants a camera with the classic Leica aesthetics, but without the heftier price tag associated with the brand’s more advanced offerings. The Leica D-Lux 8 will be available at official Leica Singapore Stores, the , and authorised dealers starting 2nd July. You can also to be notified once the camera is available.