PROs

The bright f/1.2 design helps isolate subjects using a shallow depth of field; This fast design also excels in low light conditions. Noctilux's distinctive rendering portrays subjects with a cinematic atmosphere surrounded by smooth circular bokeh thanks to an 11-blade diaphragm. This lens joins the 50mm f/0.95 and 75mm f/1.25 to complete the Noctilux trio. This is the first Noctilux lens with a 35mm focal length, offering a wider field of view compared to existing 50mm and 75mm Noctilux lenses, for a natural perspective that includes more background and context information than narrower focal lengths. The fast design still allows the lens to be selective, but the wide-angle focal length makes the lens more suitable for traditional reportage, street, and environmental portrait applications. Optimized for high-resolution M cameras, this lens provides the sharpness and resolution of the latest image sensors while retaining the character and craftsmanship associated with Leica optics. PGM technology is used to shape the three aspherical elements to finer tolerances for better control over various aberrations, higher microcontrast, and smoother, more natural bokeh. Additional elements are manufactured using highly refractive glasses to improve color clarity with virtually no chromatic aberrations. The floating element design also ensures consistent image quality across the entire focusing range. This is the first Noctilux lens to feature extended close range focusing up to 50 cm (1.6 ft); Compared to the conventional 70cm (2.3') of most rangefinder lenses, this additional range is suitable for working with close-up subjects at a maximum magnification of 1:11.6. To make use of the added 1.6' to 2.3' focusing range, an M camera must be used with an EVF, a Visoflex EVF accessory, or live view monitoring from the camera's rear LCD screen; Optical rangefinders only provide precise focus control at 2.3'. Despite being the fastest 35mm lens Leica has ever produced, this lens is still relatively compact and lightweight, measuring 2" long, 2.5" in diameter, and weighing 14.7 oz. The built-in extendable lens hood shields and protects the front element to reduce flare and ghosting. Additionally, the front of the lens is threaded to accept 49mm thread filters.