50MP Leica S medium format camera coming at Photokina 2014

Leica is rumored to announce a new Leica S medium format camera with an up to 50-megapixel CMOS sensor and 4K video recording during Photokina 2014.

We have been discussing in earlier posts about the possibility of Leica making a powerful comeback on the digital imaging market. There are plenty of gossip talks circling around the web, hinting that the German manufacturer is working on several new and exciting shooters.

The latest rumor is referring to a new Leica S medium format camera that will be introduced at the Photokina 2014. The device is said to offer interesting capabilities, such as a big megapixel sensor and video recording at 4K resolution.

New Leica S medium format camera rumored to feature 40 or 50-megapixel CMOS sensor

Leica S could be replaced by a new model at the Photokina 2014. The new medium format camera could feature a 50-megapixel CMOS sensor and 4K video recording support.

The information comes straight out of the National Association of Broadcasters Show 2014, where a Leica representative has confirmed that the company is working on the next-generation S camera.

The shooter will indeed feature a medium format sensor with 40 or 50 megapixels. The sensor is said to be based on CMOS technology, which is something that we have been hearing quite often lately.

Hasselblad has revealed the H5D-50c, Phase One has launched the IQ250, while Pentax is teasing a 645D replacement, called Z. There is only one thing linking the trio: Sony is the maker of their 50-megapixel CMOS sensors.

It would be pointless to discuss the relationship between Leica and Sony, but sources are already speculating that the upcoming S will be powered by the same sensor as the Hasselblad, Phase One, and Pentax cameras.

Next-gen Leica S MF camera to offer 4K video recording capabilities

Perhaps the more important detail coming from the NAB Show 2014 is the fact that the Leica S will be capable of shooting 4K videos. It appears that 4K is gaining traction among consumers, unlike 3D technology, as a slew of 4K cameras have been announced since the beginning of the year.

The problem with having a Leica camera and using it for videography is lens availability. Summarit-S lenses do not have integrated aperture controls, nor follow focus support.

Nevertheless, there is always the Summilux-C line-up, which is dedicated for cinematography. However, Leica is only selling them as an 8-pack for a price around $200,000 and there is a 2-year waiting list for it.

Another option is the Summicron-C series, but we are talking about rumors here, so we should not jump into conclusions, yet, as the Germany-based company might launch some new lenses. The Photokina 2014 is steadily approaching and we will find out the full story this September.