Leica Releases Kevlar-Wrapped Q2 Monochrom ‘Reporter’ Edition
As promised when it announced the standard edition Q2 Reporter last year, Leica has released the Kevlar-wrapped Q2 Monochrom Reporter fixed-lens camera.
Leica Q2 Monochrom Reporter Edition
Just like the original Q2 Reporter, the Q2 Monochrom Reporter features a “robust” exterior and what Leica calls a “discreet” appearance, which it claims allows photographers to work without drawing too much attention. The Leica engraving on the top plate and the company’s iconic red dot have been removed from this version of the camera for that express purpose.
As was the case with the standard Q2 Reporter from last year, the Monochrom variant features a “body armor” made of Kevlar that, when exposed to UV rays over time, will change in color until it slowly matches the dark green of the metal finish on the other parts of the camera’s body. Leica says that the build decisions are also designed to protect to some level against dust and water.
The Leica Q2 Reporter continues a long tradition of Leica cameras specifically designed to meet the challenges of reportage and press photography. Along with its robust exterior, the camera is distinguished by a particularly unobtrusive appearance.
The camera features a 47-megapixel full-frame black and white sensor with 13 stops of dynamic range that captures both stills and up to 4K video along with an ISO range of 100 through 100,000. The fixed-lens is a Leica Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH that is constructed of 11 elements in nine groups, three of which are aspherical elements. While a prime lens, the camera additionally features digital zoom at 28mm, 35mm, 50mm, and 75mm.
The autofocus system appears identical to the standard Q2 Reporter and features a 49-area system. The camera can shoot at up to 10 frames per second. The camera can fire as fast as 1/2000 second with the mechanical shutter and up to 1/40,000 second with the electronic shutter. It also can sync with a flash at up to 1/500 second.
As mentioned, the Q2 Monochrom Reporter can also shoot video, specifically DCI 4K at up to 24 frames per second, UHD 4K at up to 24 frames per second, and Full HD at up to 120 frames per second.
Pricing and Availability
The Leica Q2 Monochrom Reporter is available from Leica retailers for $6,295, a slight premium over the standard Q2 Reporter that retails for $5,995.
