Just picked up a Leica SL3 and I'm absolutely loving it so far. Currently shooting with the 24-70mm f/2.8, but I'm looking to expand my lens collection. I mainly shoot street photography and portraits, with occasional landscape work on weekends.
I'm considering the 35mm f/1.4 Summilux or maybe the 50mm f/2 APO. Budget isn't a huge concern, but I want to make sure I'm getting the best optical quality. Any recommendations from SL3 owners? What's been your go-to lens combo?
Having researched the latest recommendations for the SL3, here are the standout lens choices that really complement its 60MP sensor:
For standard zooms, the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm f/2.8 ASPH. is the most logical since it has the 24-70mm f/2.8 specification now used for pro standard zooms the world over. Though the corner sharpness is a bit disappointing in a pro lens from 50mm up to 70mm, it's still excellent overall. The Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-90mm f/2.8-4 ASPH. makes a very compelling alternative to the regular 24-70mm.
For primes, the APO-Summicron-SL 28mm lens is the only autofocus APO-corrected 28mm lens in existence, and it is as close to perfect as a wide-angle lens can get. Expert Lloyd Chambers specifically recommends the Leica 35mm f/2 APO-Summicron-SL ASPH. With outstanding performance, near-nil distortion, and minimal focus shift, none of its siblings can quite compete with its combination of goodness and highly useful focal length.
The Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH. springs few surprises, offering the same focal range and maximum aperture as rivals, with Leica's beautiful minimalist design. Leica also makes stunning optical lenses which is half the battle. Leica always makes top-quality lenses that mate perfectly with the 60-megapixel sensor.
Adding my two cents... basically so far the discussion has been centered on the pro zooms like the 24-70 and the 24-90. Those are solid, but since you're looking at primes for street and portraits, I'd be a bit cautious about the weight and the total investment. Before you dive into those high-end primes, are you planning on carrying this setup all day for street stuff? The SL3 is already a bit of a beast, so weight really matters for comfort. Also, are you strictly looking for Leica glass, or are you open to other L-mount partners? There are some really solid alternatives that might save you some serious cash without sacrificing too much of that 60MP potential. Just want to make sure you're not overspending if a lighter or cheaper option fits your workflow better.
Good to know!