Leica D-Lux 7 Digital Camera, Silver {17MP} with CF D Flash (19116)

Leica D-Lux 7: Four Thirds sensor in a true jacket-pocket body.

The D-Lux 7 puts a 17MP Four Thirds MOS sensor behind a DC Vario-Summilux lens, a combination that sets it apart from most compacts, which rely on much smaller sensors and slower glass. That f/1.7 maximum aperture at the wide end gives you real control over depth of field and lets the camera breathe in low light without forcing ISO into noisy territory. The 24–75mm equivalent range covers most everyday situations, and optical image stabilization keeps handheld shots clean when the light drops. Macro focus down to 3cm at the wide end opens up close-up work you'd never expect from a shirt-pocket camera.

The shooting mechanics are equally capable. Burst rate hits 11 fps at full 17MP resolution, and the electronic shutter extends to 1/16000 second for wide-open shooting in bright conditions. ISO runs to 25,600 with an extended floor of 100, and exposure compensation spans -5 to +5 EV in 1/3-stop increments, the kind of latitude that matters when you're working in tricky mixed light. UHD 4K video at up to 29.97 fps with 100 Mb/s data rate adds a credible video capability to the package.

At 403g with battery and card, the D-Lux 7 is a camera you'll actually carry when a larger kit stays home. That's the whole argument for it.

Who It's For

Street photographers who refuse to sacrifice image quality for portability get a Four Thirds sensor and f/1.7 aperture in a body that disappears into a coat pocket. Travel shooters covering wide scenes through casual portraits work the 24–75mm range without swapping glass. Documentary workers who need discreet shooting at 11 fps for candid sequences will find the burst rate competitive with cameras twice the size. Photographers who also shoot video have a 4K-capable body that fits in a bag already packed for other gear.

Key Features

• 17MP Four Thirds MOS sensor with f/1.7–f/2.8 DC Vario-Summilux lens
• 24–75mm equivalent range with 3.1x optical zoom and optical image stabilization
• 11 fps burst at full resolution; electronic shutter to 1/16000 second
• ISO 100–25,600 with 1/3 EV exposure compensation from ?5 to +5 EV
• UHD 4K video at 23.98/29.97 fps (100 Mb/s); 1080p at up to 59.94 fps
• Macro focus from 3cm at wide end; 3.0-inch fixed touchscreen LCD display
• 403g pocket-size body with SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot; includes CF D flash

FAQ

What sensor does the D-Lux 7 use, and how does it compare to other compacts?

Four Thirds MOS sensor at 17MP - significantly larger than the 1-inch and smaller sensors in most compact cameras. That size advantage, paired with the f/1.7 Summilux lens, gives you real separation from the competition in depth of field control and low-light performance without pushing ISO into the noise floor.

Is the 24–75mm range wide enough for travel and general use?

Yes. That covers landscape work, street shooting, portraits, and most everyday situations. If you need wider angles, you'd step up to a larger kit. The 3.1x optical zoom keeps you flexible without sacrificing image quality, and macro focus down to 3cm at the wide end opens up close-up options.

Can you shoot fast shutter speeds in bright daylight with the lens wide open?

The electronic shutter extends to 1/16000 second, so you can shoot f/1.7 in full sun without blowing out highlights. That's useful for daytime shallow depth-of-field work or when you want to work at maximum lens speed regardless of light conditions.

How does 11 fps burst rate stack up for action or wildlife?

Solid for a compact. You get 11 fps at full 17MP resolution, or bump to 30 fps if you drop to 8.3MP. It's enough for fast-moving subjects and sports, though you're not matching a dedicated mirrorless or DSLR body. The catch is sustained burst length depends on card speed and buffer capacity.

What's the video capability like?

UHD 4K at 23.98 or 29.97 fps with 100 Mb/s bitrate - credible for hybrid shooters who want stills and video in one pocket device. You also get 1080p at up to 59.94 fps for slow-motion. Maximum recording session is 30 minutes, which is typical for compact cameras.

How practical is this as an everyday carry camera?

At 403 grams with battery and card, it weighs less than most smartphones with a decent case. The 4.6 x 2.6 x 2.5-inch body fits a jacket pocket or small bag without thinking about it. That's the entire point of the D-Lux 7 - it's a camera you'll actually have when the moment happens.

Does it shoot RAW?

Yes. Both JPEG and RAW formats are available, giving you post-processing control when you need it. The 43mm filter thread also means you can add ND filters for daylight neutral-density work without needing adapters.