Getty Approves The First Point and Shoot Camera

Wow, it’s kind of a big deal when the biggest stock photo agency names a compact camera ‘the only approved point and shoot camera’ that passes the standard.

It was revealed that the US stock image company approved the Leica X1 point and shoot camera. ‘The image quality is top notch, which has gained the X1 the honour of being the only compact digital model approved for use by Getty Images,’ stated City AM journalist Julliet Samuel.

This means while DSLRs are the norm in shooting stock images the company also regards the Leica X1 as a camera that passes the image quality standards.

A Leica Camera Ltd spokesperson claimed “‘The X1 is the first compact digital camera to be approved by Getty Images. It is on their website on the Approved Camera list.’

The news of a point and shoot camera joining the ranks of DSLRs is relevant because it tells the quality of the Leica LX1, it’s a lighter and its a more practical alternative for professional photogs who have to carry heavy DSLRS.

The German camera brand has remained low profile about the news.

Why did the Leica X1 pass the Getty Images standard?

Here is a list of features of the X1 according to Photography blog “The Leica X1 is a 12.2 megapixel compact camera with a 36mm fixed lens and a 2.7 inch LCD screen. The X1 has an APS-C sized, 23.6×15.8mm CMOS sensor with a 3:2 aspect ratio, which promises to deliver similar image quality to a DSLR camera. The image-stabilized Leica Elmarit 24mm f/2.8 lens provides a focal length of 36mm in 35mm terms, and there’s a full range of advanced controls from manual exposure to manual focus. Other key features of the Leica X1 include a sensitivity range of ISO 100-3200, maximum shutter speed of 1/2000th of a second, JPEG and DNG RAW file support, and a continuous shooting rate of up to 3 frames per second. The recommended retail price of the Leica X1 is £1395 / $1995 / €1550.

The Leica X1 is a beautifully designed and highly intuitive camera that looks like a miniaturized version of the M9 rangefinder, with some really well-thought out external controls that make taking a picture an easy and enjoyable process. The classic Leica styling is present and correct, with the famous logo, textured leather body, excellent lens and a range of luxury optional accessories all adding to the impression that this is much more than just another digital camera. As you’d expect with Leica, the cost of ownership is also indicative of the X1′s exclusivity, with the eye-watering £1395 / $1995 / €1550 price tag putting it into direct competition with some serious DSLRs. Only the truly dedicated or well-heeled photographers need apply.”

Leica has an official blog.