Launched in July, the new D-Lux 8 is Leica’s latest entry to its point-and-shoot category, replacing its predecessor from four years ago. As with most succeeding models, it is promised to offer various improvements in both features and experience. Thanks to an opportunity provided by the company, I was able to try out the camera’s capabilities, albeit for a short period of time.
While not a heavy hitter from the brand’s selection of cameras, the D-Lux 8 is still a Leica product through and through. This is evident by its weather-sealed magnesium die-cast casing, which gives it a sturdy and premium feel. It also comes with switches for selecting between different aspect ratios as well as auto or manual focus modes, rings on the fixed lens that adjusts aperture and focus, a shutter speed dial, and a lever to control zoom.
Newcomers will have a tough time familiarising with the device’s label-less buttons, especially when trying to figure out on how to switch between camera and video modes. But once that’s out of the way, the overall experience is actually pretty simple and straightforward.
Throughout my short time with it, I’ve been shooting in Auto mode, which does a great job in most situations. Photos have that signature Leica soft tone when shot in bright environments, while those snapped in lowlight or indoors exhibit vibrant and high contrast looks.
The images themselves are quite sharp and there’s minimal amount of noise noticeable, likely thanks to software-based enhancements. However, exposure can be a bit wonky at times, often resulting in dull shots even when under bright sunlight. For better results, it’s recommended that you manually adjust the camera’s settings to fit certain conditions. But if you still can’t wrap your head around it just yet, you can always fix your photos in post via an image editor after importing them to a Leica FOTOS supported device.
Leica D-Lux 8 Photo Samples
Speaking of which, you can easily transfer over your shots to a smart device by utilising the D-Lux 8’s wireless connectivity. As mentioned earlier, you’ll need Leica’s FOTOS mobile app installed on your phone or tablet if you want to synchronise to the camera, whereas a USB-C connection is all that’s required if you’re on a computer or laptop.
Overall, the D-Lux 8 feels like a fun little companion for vacations, or hobby-based activities. While the camera does deliver decent image quality, it is still lacking in certain aspects to actually qualify as a pro-grade shooter, especially when compared to high-end models from the brand or even other manufacturers. But if the D-Lux 8 suits your fancy regardless, it’s available now in Malaysia starting from RM8,575.
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