The Leica Minilux was first introduced around 1995, remaining in production until 2006, offering a far superior build and lens quality to previously made Japanese models under Minolta. Leica struck a behind the scenes partnership with Minolta to assist in developing their SLR products, namely the R series. While a lot of these cameras were developed predominantly on Japanese soil, the Minilux is said to have been a very much German affair; music to Leica-lovers ears. The main advantage of the Minilux over many of its competitors, rather predictably, is the quality of its lens; a German made Summarit 40mm f/2.4. The unusual focal length of 40mm versus a more ordinarily seen 28mm or 35mm make it quite versatile in areas that cameras like the Ricoh GR1 or Contax T3 might struggle; namely portraiture. While we won’t quite call this a ‘portrait’ camera, it is possible to shoot very acceptable portraits.

Made somewhat famous by its prominent feature in One Hour Photo; a film starring a troubled mini-lab clerk portrayed by Robin Williams who compliments his customer’s choice of a Leica Minilux. The Minilux was aimed at a competent but non-professional market, and was sold in vast volumes. The manual controls, including manual aperture and focus made it quite a lot more versatile than many other ‘snapshot’ cameras; the functionality of a Yashica T4 or an Olympus MJU II paling by comparison. Its in-built metering system is held in very high regard by professionals and enthusiasts alike, along with its often described as unparalleled lens sharp lens make this snapshot one of the all time greats.

Lens: Leica Summarit 40mm f/2.4
Diaphragm: 7 blades
ISO Range: Auto DX coding ISO 25 - 5000
Speeds: Up to 1/400th sec with Bulb mode
Shutter Count: Digital on body top
Multiple Exposure: No
Battery: CR123
Weight: 365g

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