Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm Lens: Is It the Ultimate Tool for Wildlife Photography?

Leica has recently introduced the Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH, a fast telephoto zoom lens designed for L-mount cameras. This versatile lens is perfect for a wide range of applications, including wildlife, sports, and even wedding photography. The launch also included the Leica Extender L 2.0x, which further expands the reach of the SL system.

As the latest addition to Leica’s prestigious lineup, the Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH joins its counterparts—the Super-Vario-Elmarit-SL 14-24mm f/2.8 ASPH and the Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-70mm f/2.8 ASPH—completing Leica’s trio of zoom lenses with a continuous f/2.8 aperture throughout the entire focal range. Together, these lenses cover an impressive focal length range from 14mm to 200mm. It makes them an ideal choice for photographers and videographers alike.

Leica also introduced the Extender L 2.0x, which increases the focal length of compatible lenses up to 800mm. It enhances the creative potential for wildlife and nature photography. This combination of the Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH and the extender offers photographers extraordinary flexibility.

The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH lens stands as a pinnacle of optical engineering, designed to meet the rigorous demands of wildlife and bird photographers. Combining exceptional build quality, advanced optical performance, and thoughtful features, this lens promises to be a valuable asset for both professional and dedicated amateur photographers. But how does the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm perform in the demanding world of bird and wildlife photography, and is it worth the investment?

In this extended review, we’ll delve deeper into its features, pricing options, compatible accessories, and more to help you determine if it’s the right choice for your wildlife photography needs.

General Characteristics

Superior Optical Performance

The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH lens offers a remarkable optical design, which is crucial for wildlife photography. With 20 elements in 15 groups, including aspherical lenses, it delivers sharp and detailed images with minimal distortion and chromatic aberration. This ensures that even the most intricate details, like the feathers of a bird or the texture of an animal’s fur, are captured with stunning clarity. The constant f/2.8 aperture also provides excellent light-gathering capabilities, which is essential when shooting in low-light environments such as dawn or dusk, common times for wildlife activity.

Durability and Weather Resistance

One of the standout characteristics of this lens is its rugged construction. Designed with outdoor photographers in mind, the lens is weather-sealed to protect against dust, moisture, and harsh conditions. Leica’s Aqua-Dura coating further enhances its durability by safeguarding the external lens elements from water droplets and dirt. For wildlife photographers who often shoot in unpredictable environments, from rainy forests to dry savannahs, this lens provides peace of mind knowing their equipment is well-protected.

Extended Reach with Leica Extender L 2.0x

For wildlife photographers who need extra reach to capture distant subjects without disturbing them, the Leica Extender L 2.0x is an excellent companion. When paired with the Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm lens, the extender boosts the focal length up to 400mm, or up to 1200mm with APS-C crop mode, giving photographers the flexibility to zoom in on distant wildlife without sacrificing image quality. This makes it ideal for birdwatching or photographing elusive animals from afar.

Versatility in Various Photography Settings

While the lens shines in wildlife and bird photography, its versatility extends to other fields as well. The 70-200mm range is perfect for portrait photography, offering flattering compression and the ability to create soft, defocused backgrounds. It’s also ideal for sports and event photography, where capturing fast-moving subjects with precision and clarity is paramount. This versatility makes it a multi-purpose lens for professional photographers who need a reliable telephoto zoom for different scenarios.

Specifications and Features

To provide a clearer picture of what the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH offers, here’s a detailed table of its specifications and features:

Key Features Highlight

• Wide Aperture Ratio of f/2.8: Maintains a bright aperture throughout the zoom range, allowing for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field control—crucial for isolating wildlife subjects against blurred backgrounds.
• Advanced Optical Construction: Comprising 20 lenses in 15 groups, including three aspherical elements, this lens delivers outstanding sharpness, minimal aberrations, and vibrant color rendition essential for high-quality wildlife and bird photography.
• Fast Telephoto Zoom: Versatile for various photography genres such as portrait, reportage, event, sports, nature, and especially wildlife, providing flexibility in capturing subjects from a distance.
• Robust Weather Protection: The Aqua-Dura coating and weather-sealed construction ensure reliability in challenging outdoor conditions, safeguarding against spray water and dust.
• Compact and Lightweight Design: Despite its robust build, the lens remains relatively lightweight and compact, enhancing portability for fieldwork.
• Leica Extender L 2.0x Compatibility: Extends the lens’s focal length up to 800mm or 1200mm (APS-C). It offers even greater reach for distant subjects without compromising optical performance.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Optical Excellence: Delivers unparalleled clarity and sharpness, crucial for detailed wildlife and bird photography.
• Bright f/2.8 Aperture: Exceptional performance in low-light conditions, enabling fast shutter speeds and beautiful background blur.
• Weather Sealing: Reliable protection against environmental elements, ensuring durability during outdoor shoots.
• Durable Build: Constructed from magnesium and aluminum, the lens is built to withstand rigorous use.
• Versatile Zoom Range: Suitable for a wide array of photography styles. It makes it a versatile addition to any wildlife photographer’s kit.
• Upgradeable Firmware: Ensures the lens remains compatible with future camera advancements and features.

Cons

• High Price Point: At $3,295.00, it represents a significant investment, which may be prohibitive for some photographers.
• Weight: Weighing in at over 3 pounds, it may cause fatigue during extended handheld shooting sessions.
• Limited Zoom Range: While 70-200mm is versatile, some wildlife photographers may require longer focal lengths for certain subjects.

Leica Extender L 2.0x: Enhancing Your Wildlife Photography

For those seeking to push the boundaries of their wildlife photography, the Leica Extender L 2.0x is an invaluable accessory. Priced at $995.00, it offers a 2x magnification, effectively doubling the lens’s focal length to 800mm. When used with the APS-C setting on a full-frame sensor, it extends the reach to an impressive 1200mm. This extender is designed specifically for Leica L Mount lenses, ensuring seamless integration and compatibility.

Key Features of the Leica Extender L 2.0x

• 2x Magnification: Doubles the focal length, allowing for closer shots of distant wildlife.
• Leica L Mount Compatibility: Ensures a secure and precise fit with the Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm and 100-400mm lenses.
• Aqua-Dura Coating: Maintains the same weather-resistant properties as the main lens, protecting against spray water and dust.
• Metadata Transfer: Equipped with a contact strip to support the transfer of lens metadata to the camera, maintaining accurate EXIF data.
• Compact and Durable: Built to match the robust construction of Leica lenses, ensuring durability in the field.

Camera Recommendations for the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens for Wildlife Photography

When choosing the best camera to pair with the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH lens for wildlife photography, two standout options are the Leica SL2-S and the much-anticipated Leica SL3. These cameras are designed to bring out the full potential of this telephoto lens, particularly for wildlife enthusiasts who demand speed, precision, and high image quality.

Leica SL2-S: Versatile Choice for Wildlife Photography

Priced at $4,195.00 (discounted from $5,195.00, a 19% savings), the Leica SL2-S offers incredible value for wildlife photographers. With a 24.6MP full-frame sensor, this camera balances image quality and speed, making it ideal for capturing wildlife in various environments.

Key Features

• Fast Burst Shooting: With up to 25 fps, the SL2-S ensures you won’t miss a moment when photographing fast-moving wildlife.
• Low-Light Performance: The camera’s wide ISO range of 50-100,000 and excellent low-light capabilities make it perfect for shooting during sunrise, sunset, or in dense forests.
• Weather Sealing: Designed for rugged environments, the SL2-S is dust and splash-proof, making it a reliable option in unpredictable outdoor conditions.
• Affordability: At $3,995.00, this camera is an excellent choice for wildlife photographers seeking a high-performance camera.

Leica SL3: The Future of Wildlife Photography

The Leica SL3, with an expected price of $6,995.00 and availability in November 2024, is the next evolution in the Leica SL lineup. While more expensive than the SL2-S, it promises cutting-edge features that cater specifically to wildlife photographers.

Key Features

• High-Resolution Sensor: Expected to feature a 40-50MP full-frame sensor, the SL3 will deliver stunningly detailed images, perfect for wildlife photography where cropping and post-production are often necessary.
• Advanced Autofocus: Improved autofocus tracking, including animal and eye detection, will allow photographers to capture elusive wildlife with ease.
• Faster Continuous Shooting: The SL3 is anticipated to surpass the SL2-S’s burst rate, making it even more capable of capturing high-speed wildlife action.
• 8K Video: Wildlife filmmakers will benefit from the SL3’s 8K video recording, offering the highest video resolution for nature documentaries.
• Future-Proof Technology: Although more expensive, the SL3 will be the ultimate tool for photographers looking to future-proof their gear and embrace the latest advancements.

Read a full review of the Leica SL3 Mirrorless Camera: Leica SL3 Review: Is The Best For Pro Wildlife Photography?

Which Camera Should You Choose?

• For Affordability and Speed: If you’re looking for a more affordable option that still offers excellent performance, the Leica SL2-S is a great choice. At $3,995.00, it’s a powerful camera capable of handling the demands of wildlife photography while offering significant savings.
• For Advanced Features and Future-Proofing: If budget is less of a concern and you’re seeking cutting-edge technology, the Leica SL3 is the ideal choice. Priced at $6,995.00, it offers unmatched resolution, autofocus capabilities, and video options, making it the perfect partner for serious wildlife photographers who want the best possible image quality and features.

Both the Leica SL2-S and Leica SL3 are exceptional cameras for pairing with the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH lens. The SL2-S offers affordability and speed, making it suitable for those who want a high-performance camera at a more accessible price. Meanwhile, the SL3 promises to push the boundaries of wildlife photography with advanced features like higher resolution and enhanced autofocus. Depending on your budget and the level of technology you’re seeking, either of these cameras will serve as a powerful tool in your wildlife photography journey.

Final Verdict on the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens

As we wrap up this review, let’s evaluate how the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH lens performs in wildlife and bird photography and if it’s worth the investment.

The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH lens excels in delivering high-quality optical performance. Its design, incorporating 20 lenses in 15 groups, including aspherical elements, ensures sharp and clear images with minimal distortion. This is crucial for capturing the fine details of wildlife and birds, even in challenging conditions. The lens’s wide f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range provides excellent low-light performance and depth of field control, making it versatile for various shooting scenarios.

In terms of durability, the lens is well-built with weather-sealed construction and Aqua-Dura coating, protecting it against dust and moisture. This rugged design allows photographers to work confidently in diverse environmental conditions without worrying about gear failure. Additionally, the lens’s weight of approximately 3.39 lbs (1540g) ensures that it remains manageable for most users, despite being slightly heavier than some competitors.

The Leica Extender L 2.0x further enhances the lens’s capabilities by extending its focal length up to 400mm or 1200mm with APS-C mode. This added reach is valuable for photographing distant or elusive wildlife, providing greater flexibility and precision.

Considerations and Comparisons

However, the lens’s high price of $3,295 may be a significant investment for many photographers. The weight, while manageable, could be considered cumbersome for extended use compared to lighter alternatives.

In comparison, lenses like the Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM, Nikon Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S, and Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS offer similar performance but at a lower cost and with lighter designs.

In summary, the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH lens is a premier choice for those seeking exceptional optical quality and durability for wildlife and bird photography. Its advanced features and robust build make it a valuable investment for serious photographers, despite its higher price and weight.

Is It Affordable for Wildlife and Bird Photography?

The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH lens is positioned in the premium segment of the market, reflecting Leica’s commitment to superior craftsmanship and optical excellence. Priced at $3,295.00, this lens is a significant investment. However, Leica offers flexible purchasing options, including $275 per month with 12‑month special financing, making it more accessible for those who prefer manageable payments over a year. Additionally, purchasing with the Adorama Edge Credit Card provides a 5% daily savings and the opportunity to earn 3,295 reward points, adding value for frequent buyers.

For photographers seeking to extend their reach, the Leica Extender L 2.0x is an excellent accessory priced at $995.00. This extender doubles the magnification, effectively extending the focal length to 800mm or 1200mm when using the APS-C setting on a full-frame sensor. It also offers the same weather-resistant features and seamless metadata transfer, enhancing the versatility of your Leica system. The extender is available for $83 per month with the same 12‑month special financing plan and allows you to earn 995 reward points with the Adorama Edge Credit Card.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH Lens

1. What makes the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH lens suitable for wildlife and bird photography?

The lens is well-suited for wildlife and bird photography due to its fast f/2.8 aperture, which performs excellently in low light and provides a shallow depth of field for isolating subjects. Its 70-200mm focal length offers the versatility needed to capture distant wildlife without intrusion, and its high optical quality ensures sharp and clear images.

2. How does the f/2.8 aperture benefit wildlife and bird photographers?

The f/2.8 aperture allows for exceptional performance in low-light conditions and enables a shallow depth of field. It helps to isolate the subject from the background. This results in clear, detailed images with aesthetically pleasing background blur, which is crucial for capturing sharp and focused shots of wildlife and birds.

3. What is the significance of the lens’s 70-200mm focal length range?

The 70-200mm focal length range provides a flexible zoom capability that is ideal for wildlife and bird photography. It allows photographers to capture a wide variety of shots, from close-ups of distant animals to broader scenes, without disturbing the subjects. This range also helps in framing compositions effectively in dynamic outdoor environments.

4. How does the Leica Extender L 2.0x enhance the lens’s functionality?

The Leica Extender L 2.0x extends the focal length of the lens, providing up to 400mm or up to 1200mm with APS-C crop mode. This additional reach is particularly useful for photographing far-off or elusive wildlife. It offers greater flexibility and precision for capturing distant subjects.

5. What are the key features of the lens’s build quality?

The lens features a robust construction with magnesium and aluminum housing, ensuring durability. It is weather-sealed and coated with Aqua-Dura to protect against dust and moisture. It makes it reliable for outdoor use in various environmental conditions.

6. Which cameras are recommended for use with the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH lens?

For wildlife and bird photography with the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH lens, we highly recommend the Leica SL2 and the upcoming Leica SL3 mirrorless cameras. The SL2, priced at $3,995, delivers excellent image quality and advanced features designed for professional photographers. The SL3, expected to be available in November 2024 for $6,995, is set to provide enhanced performance and additional features that will complement the lens’s capabilities. Both cameras support the lens’s full potential, offering robust performance and exceptional image quality.

7. Is there any additional warranty or support for the lens and its accessories?

The Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH lens comes with a limited warranty of 24 months. The Leica Extender L 2.0x also includes a similar warranty period.

Ready to elevate your wildlife photography?
Order the Leica Vario-Elmarit-SL 70-200mm f/2.8 ASPH today!
Explore flexible financing options and earn reward points with the Adorama Edge Credit Card. Enhance your gear with the Leica Extender L 2.0x for even greater reach and performance.