Powerful and portable, the Leica Q3 mixes both classic and modern with a
timeless design and a bevy of new-to-Q technologies. The third
generation in Q cameras, the Q3 uses the same fixed focal length
full-frame design proven in the Q and Q2 cameras but ups the performance
with a 60MP sensor, a new hybrid AF system, 8K video recording, and
revised EVF and LCD designs. 60MP BSI CMOS Sensor Taken from the M11,
the Q3 features the same 60MP full-frame CMOS sensor as the flagship
rangefinder camera. This high-resolution sensor features a
back-illuminated (BSI) design that offers improved noise performance and
faster readout speeds, this benefits both photo and video applications.
The higher resolution suits more detail-oriented applications, like
landscape and architectural subjects, and the noise-reduction benefits
of the BSI design improves clarity and colour accuracy when working in
low-light conditions with higher ISOs. The added resolution of the 60MP
sensor also enables unique digital zoom capabilities to simulate working
with different focal length lenses: a 1.25x crop simulates a 35mm focal
length, a 1.8x crop simulates a 50mm focal length, a 2.7x crop
simulates a 75mm focal length, and a 3.2x crop simulates a 90mm focal
length. Triple Resolution Technology Another technology from the M11 now
debuting in a Q, this 60MP sensor enables the use of Triple Resolution
Technology. This unique pixel binning process allows photographers to
select 60MP, 36MP, or 18MP output, with each resolution making use of
the full sensor area and providing rich 14-bit color and a 14-stop
dynamic range. Maestro IV Jumping past the M11, the Q3 introduces a new
generation of processing with the Maestro IV. This processor, along with
8GB of buffer memory, suits the more multimedia-intended use of the Q3
and enables speedy performance when shooting stills or recording video.
The
faster processing also benefits using Triple Resolution Technology,
helps achieve a wider sensitivity range from ISO 50-100000, allows
continuous shooting up to an impressive 15 fps, and facilitates smooth
operation when working with the EVF and LCD. Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH.
Lens and Hybrid AF Summilux Optics Using the proven design from the past
Qs, the Q3 inherits the Summilux 28mm f/1.7 wide-angle prime lens that
provides a broad field of view and fast performance to suit working in a
variety of environments and lighting conditions. As a lens designed
specifically for the Q cameras, the optical design has been refined for
high sharpness and low distortion along with a compact, functional
profile thats discreet while providing room to make tactile adjustments
to focus, aperture, and to switch to the dedicated macro focusing range
for working with subjects as close as 6.7" away. Additionally, optical
image stabilization helps to compensate for the effects of camera shake
for sharper handheld shooting. Hybrid Autofocus and Subject Tracking
Leveraging the powerful processing and updated sensor design, one of the
key upgrades in the Q3 is the inclusion of a hybrid AF system that
utilizes phase-detection focusing along with contrast-detection and
depth from defocus (DFD) AF for faster, more accurate focusing when
working with moving subjects or in mixed lighting conditions. The
addition of phase-detection focusing also enables an intelligent subject
recognition system that can detect and track eyes, faces, bodies, and
animals in the frame. 8K Video and ProRes Recording With more attention
given to video recording, the Q3 is a well-rounded multimedia camera
with video performance that rivals the exceptional stills capabilities.
DCI 8K recording is supported at up to 30p with 4:2:0 10-bit color when
recording internally or at 8-bit when recording externally via the
micro-HDMI port. 4K recording is also possible, with 4:2:2 10-bit color,
at up to 60p with support for recording internally or externally. When
shooting Full HD, the frame rate can be pushed to 120p for slow motion
playback and all resolutions also support a true 24p frame rate for
cinematic rendering. ProRes 422 HQ recording can be done internally with
a Full HD resolution at frame rates up to 60p. Micro-HDMI and USB-C
ports provide greater access to accessories like external recorders,
gimbals, power banks, and more to benefit using the Q3 as a tool for
video creators. Camera Design Updated EVF and New Tilting LCD Two of the
key physical improvements to the Q3 include an updated electronic
viewfinder and a newly designed rear LCD: 5.76m-dot OLED EVF offers a
high-resolution eye-level means for composing and features a 120 fps
refresh rate for more realistic motion rendering.
This finder
has a 0.79x magnification, an adjustable diopter, and an eye sensor for
automatic switching between the EVF and LCD. For the first time in a Q,
the Q3 sports a tilting LCD design that can face both upward and
downward to suit working from a variety of shooting positions. This 3"
1.84m-dot LCD is also a touchscreen for more intuitive settings control.
Portable, Weather-Sealed Design The Q3 is a compact camera meant for
everyday shooting and its design remains similar to previous
generations, but with some notable updates for improved usability: New
higher capacity BP-SCL6 lithium-ion battery is rated to provide 350
shots per charge and uses the same physical design as its predecessor,
the BP-SCL4, which can also be used with this camera. Magnesium alloy
body is sealed to protect against dust and moisture (IP52-rated) for use
in harsh environmental conditions. New USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 port can be used
for transferring, tethering, power delivery, and in-camera battery
charging. The Q3 is also Made for iPhone certified to enable a direct,
wired connection to an iPhone. Micro-HDMI port facilitates working with
an external monitor and recorder as well as previewing footage from the
camera directly on a TV. Accepts one SD-type memory card and supports
the UHS II protocol. Expanded Connectivity and Wireless Charging
Accessories Improved wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi 2.4 & 5 GHz and
Bluetooth 5.0) and an updated Leica FOTOS app enable wireless transfer
speeds up to 10x faster than the previous generation; transfer speeds up
to 35MB/s are now possible, enabling moving a full-resolution DNG from
the camera to your mobile device in just 2 seconds. Upgraded Leica FOTOS
app enables transferring new Leica Looks to your camera, including
Contemporary, Classic, Blue, Selenium, Sepia, and more. FOTOS app also
supports adding GPS information to your files using locational data from
your mobile device. When paired with the optional HG-DC1 Wireless
Charging Handgrip, the Q3 supports wireless battery charging via
Qi-compatible charging mats, like the Drop XL Wireless Charger.