Photojournalism simply wouldn’t have been able to make its mark in history without portable cameras. When Leica introduced the first 35mm camera in 1925, it revolutionized the way stories were told. It gave photographers the freedom to move and capture authentic moments without the need for bulky and heavy gear. This legacy lives on in today’s professional photojournalism cameras, which have evolved from the legendary Graflex Speed Graphic to modern mirrorless systems.
Based on its professional mirrorless camera SL3, Leica has developed SL3 Reporter – a dedicated tool for photojournalists who need a camera as durable as the environments in which they operate.
Prepared for extreme conditions
With the Leica SL3 Reporter model, Leica has removed the recognizable red dot, painted everything dark green and wrapped the casing in aramid fabric (from the same family as Kevlar). This is a practical solution for journalists working in demanding and dangerous conditions. The textured coating improves grip even with wet or gloved hands, and the dark color allows for discretion where it is necessary.
What makes Reporter special is the way the aramid coating ages. Instead of the usual wear and tear that looks neglected, Reporter develops patina, which reflects its history – a visual record of tasks completed and stories captured. It also offers IP54 protection against dust and water.
Same power, new look
Beneath the robust exterior, the Reporter is equipped with the same technology that impressed the standard SL3 at launch. 60-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor captures exceptional detail, phase focusing covers 315 points, electronic viewfinder with 5.76 million pixels, refreshes at 120 fps, 5-axis stabilization and allows up to 5 levels of correction in low light.
Leucine Triple Resolution Technology It allows you to shoot at 18, 36 or 60 megapixels across the entire sensor, greatly improving your workflow. The camera offers an ISO range of 50 to 100,000, with dual native noise reduction settings. For video creators, there's also 8K recording with 10-bit color depth.
Leica tradition for professionals
The Reporter series has a long tradition at Leica. Models such as M10-P Reporter, Q2 Reporter and SL2-S Reporter, have set the standard for professional appliances that focus on reliability and durability. These are tools designed for intensive use and regular maintenance. SL3 Reporter continues this philosophy, but upgrades it with modern mirrorless technology.
Technical specifications
- Model: Leica SL3 Reporter
- Sensor: 60.3 MP BSI CMOS, full frame, phase detection autofocus
- Resolution: Triple Resolution Technology (18/36/60 MP)
- ISO: 50-100,000 (dual native ISO)
- Stabilization: 5-axis, up to 5 levels
- Search engine: 5.76M OLED, 120fps
- Display: 3.2-inch LCD, 2.33M dots
- Video: 8K, 10-bit, L-Log/HLG profiles
- Housing: dark green color, aramid coating
- Protection: IP54
- Weight: approx. 770 g (body only)
- Connectivity: USB-C, HDMI 2.1, WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0
- Bayonet: Leica L-mount
Price and availability
Leica SL3 Reporter is already available worldwide in Leica stores, online shop and authorized dealers for 7,995 $ / around 8,000 euros – which is 510 $ more than the standard SL3.
Below the line: Leica SL3 Reporter
Leica introduced SL3 Reporter, a rugged version of its flagship mirrorless camera, wrapped in aramid fabric and a discreet dark green color, designed for photojournalists working in the harshest conditions. Interesting, different and very likeable.
