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Leica Unveils Superzooming V-Lux 3 Compact Camera

Leica has unveiled a new superzoom compact camera: the 12.1-megapixel V-Lux 3.
The V-Lux 3 features a Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 4.5-108 mm f/2.8-5.2 ASPH 24-fold super-telephoto zoom lens, which is equivalent to an eye-popping 25–600 mm lens in 35mm format.
It also shoots full 1080p HD video in the AVCHD format at 60 frames per second.
The Leica V-Lux 3 will sell for $949 and begin shipping in January 2012.
Check out the press release for more details after the jump.

PRESS RELEASE
NEW: LEICA V-LUX 3
The versatile all-in-one camera for creative stills and video
Solms, Germany (December 8, 2011) – Leica Camera AG presents the Leica V-Lux 3, a new compact digital camera with an extensive range of features. The camera is extremely versatile, making it ideal for almost all photographic situations. For photographers shooting landscapes, architecture, sport, travel, portraits or wildlife, the V-Lux 3 incorporates an enormously flexible lens. The Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 4.5 – 108 mm f/2.8 – 5.2 ASPH. 24-fold super-telephoto zoom lens covers a wide range of focal lengths equivalent to 25–600 mm in 35 mm format. The newly developed 12.1-megapixel CMOS image sensor guarantees exceptional image quality for all applications. A truly universal solution for creative photographers looking for an all-in-one camera, the V-Lux 3 also features extensive broad range of video options and offers video quality comparable to premium-range camcorders.
“The Leica V-Lux 3 combines exceptional performance with the handy size of a compact camera. It offers a vast range of focal lengths and covers almost all photographic situations that usually require the use of a camera system. The V-Lux 3 is therefore an attractive alternative to entry-level DSLR cameras with interchangeable lenses,” says Peter Kruschewski, Product Manager for Digital Compact Cameras at Leica Camera AG.
The Leica V-Lux 3 features a very impressive range of video functions, capturing full-HD video in AVCHD format with 1920 × 1080 pixels and 60 full frames per second. This 1080p60 video format not only guarantees the perfect rendition of fast movement in outstanding detail but is also ideal for conversion to alternative resolutions and refresh rates. The entire 24-fold zoom range is available during video recording while an integrated stereo microphone with an electronic wind noise filter guarantees a crystal-clear soundtrack.
One of the fastest consecutive shooting cameras in its class, the V-Lux 3 incorporates a high-speed burst-shooting capability: bursts of 12 frames per second at full resolution, or 60 frames per second at a resolution of 3.5 MP.
A reliable aid to photographers in the precise composition and assessment of images, the 3″ LCD display with 460,000 pixel resolution delivers an extremely bright and clear view. The monitor screen of the V-Lux 3 can be twisted and turned in almost any direction, opening up entirely new horizons for image composition from even the most unusual angles. When shooting stills or video from above their head or down close to the ground, photographers using the V-Lux 3 always remain in full control.
The design of the Leica V-Lux 3 is characterized by a compact form and extremely simple handling. The camera’s integrated handgrip keeps it steady and its light weight allows for one-handed shooting. All controls are clearly laid out and simple to use. For instance, video recording can be started quickly and easily at the touch of a button on the top deck of the camera.
Supporting Leica Camera’s commitment to an uncompromised customer experience, the Leica V-Lux 3 comes complete with a two-year warranty. The camera also is supplied with a comprehensive software package, including Adobe Photoshop Elements and Adobe Premiere Elements. The image-processing software Adobe Photoshop Elements offers users options for viewing, organization and administration in addition to a wide range of image-processing solutions. Adobe® Premiere Elements is especially designed for video processing and offers optimum features for processing videos recorded by the V-Lux 3 in AVCHD format, enabling the creation of professional audio and video effects. Both programs are available as free downloads from the Leica Camera website after registration of the camera.
The Leica V-Lux 3 will be available from Leica Camera dealers beginning January 2012.