Leica SL3-P with 28-70mm f2.8 Vario-Elmarit-SL ASPH Lens

What’s new?

The Leica SL3-P joins the SL-System as Leica’s most complete full-frame camera to date, positioned between the 60MP SL3 and the 24MP SL3-S. Its 44.9MP effective BSI full-frame CMOS sensor provides higher resolution than the SL3-S while producing files that are more manageable than those of the SL3. The Maestro IV processor supports 40 fps continuous shooting with full autofocus, while the hybrid AF system combines phase detection, depth mapping, and contrast detection, with 819 phase-detection points for subject-aware tracking. Multishot mode uses sensor-shift capture to produce files up to 176.7MP, and up to 14 stops of dynamic range preserve fine tonal gradation in DNG files.

The SL3-P also updates operation with separate photo and video interfaces, a tilting touchscreen that adapts its display orientation, and colour-coded menus for faster mode recognition. CFexpress Type B and SD UHS-II media support high-speed recording, while USB-C, HDMI, timecode, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and the Leica FOTOS app provide direct routes for transfer, tethering, monitoring and remote control. Adobe Frame.io supports Camera-to-Cloud transfer for photos and proxy video, while USB-C tethering enables direct review in Lightroom Classic and Capture One. Leica Content Credentials can add tamper-proof metadata at capture, giving image files an optional authenticity record from the moment you take the picture.

Sensor and processing

The SL3-P uses a 44.9MP BSI full-frame CMOS sensor with no low-pass filter, allowing the camera to capture fine detail with strong edge definition. Up to 14 stops of dynamic range preserve subtle tonal transitions in highlights and shadows, giving DNG files more latitude for careful editing. The Maestro IV processor handles the sensor data required for 40fps continuous shooting, high-resolution stills, and 8K video recording, so the camera can switch between detailed capture and faster subject work without changing body systems. ISO 50 to 200,000 extends exposure flexibility in low light, while Multishot mode uses sensor-shift capture to produce files up to 176.7 MP for static subjects. This gives the SL3-P its central role in the SL lineup: high-resolution output, controlled tonal range and faster processing in one full-frame body.

Autofocus, speed and stabilisation

The camera’s hybrid autofocus system combines phase detection, depth mapping and contrast detection. Phase detection supports fast focus measurement, depth mapping helps the camera judge subject distance, and contrast detection confirms fine focus at the selected point. With 819 AF points and smart subject recognition, the SL3-P can identify people, animals and cars, then prioritise defined areas such as eyes, bodies or vehicle details. For the first time in the SL series, continuous shooting reaches 40fps with full AF support, allowing the camera to keep refocusing throughout high-speed bursts. The 5-axis in-body stabilisation system provides up to 5 stops of compensation, reducing the effect of handheld movement at slower shutter speeds.

Video recording formats

A first in the SL series, the SL3-P records 8.1K Open Gate in 3:2 at 30p, using the full sensor area to preserve a taller frame for multi-aspect reframing. 5.9K 60p provides smoother motion at high resolution, while 4K 120p supports slow-motion footage. Internal ProRes recording is available at 5.8K, and HDMI RAW outputs 8K Open Gate to compatible external recorders when a RAW workflow is required. L-Log, HLG, Leica Pure, and Leica Cine LUTs provide operators with in-camera monitoring options for exposure and colour decisions. With no fixed clip limit, longer recordings are managed through card capacity, selected resolution, and operating temperature.

Design and operation

The camera body features a full-metal magnesium-and-aluminium housing with a leatherette covering, black control elements, and IP54 protection. The construction gives the body a solid SL-System feel while protecting against dust and water splashes. Separate photo and video interfaces keep settings divided by capture mode, reducing the need to search through mixed menus when switching roles. Red colour coding for photo mode and yellow colour coding for video mode make the active mode clear before recording or shooting. The interface also adapts to horizontal or vertical camera orientation, keeping exposure, focus and recording information legible on the tilting 3.2-inch touchscreen. A 5.76-million-dot EVF supports eye-level composition, while the 1.28-inch top display gives quick exposure checks without using the rear screen.

Connectivity, workflow and power

The SL3-P records to CFexpress Type B and SD cards, with UHS-II SD and CFexpress Type B recommended for high-speed stills and video recording. USB-C 3.1 supports file transfer, tethering, charging and gimbal connection, while full-size HDMI Type A provides monitoring and RAW output to compatible recorders. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, and the Leica FOTOS app enable wireless transfer, remote control, firmware updates, and GPS data writing where supported.

Leica 28-70mm f2.8 Vario-Elmarit-SL ASPH Lens

The Leica 28-70mm f2.8 Vario-Elmarit-SL ASPH Lens is the most compact standard zoom in the SL System, offering a constant f2.8 aperture and covering a wide to short telephoto perspective. With 16 elements in 12 groups, including aspherical components, this lens delivers excellent contrast and edge-to-edge sharpness. Fast internal focusing, weather-sealed metal construction, and a 572g build make it well suited to hybrid content creation across stills and video.

What’s in the box?

• 1 x Leica SL3-P Camera Body - Black
• 1 x BP-SCL6 Battery
• 1 x USB-C cable
• 1 x Carrying Strap
• 1 x Camera Body Cap
• 1 x Leica 28-70mm f2.8 Vario-Elmarit-SL ASPH Lens
• 1 x Lens Hood
• 1 x Front Lens Cap
• 1 x SL Rear Lens Cap
• 1 x Soft Storage Pouch
• 1 x Instructions