Are DSLR Cameras Loud? (and A New Leica DG Summilux 15mm F/1.7 For M4/3)

Earlier this year Panasonic released this short (and rather witty) little video with the simple title: “Are DSLR Cameras Loud?”.

The concept behind the video is simple – DSLRs are laud (due to their shutter/mirror mechanism) while mirrorless cameras (like the ones Panasonic happen to be manufacturing – in this case the commercial is for the new GX7) are quiet. From our experience at least this is true but there are other factors relevant for shooting birds besides the sound of the camera (long telephoto lens selection, image quality AF speed, continuous shooting speed etc.).

Although so far there is no official video, Panasonic (alongside Leica) announced a new lens today – Leica DG Summilux 15mm f/1.7 for Micro 4/3 cameras. This tiny lens (equivalent in 35mm to a 30mm) includes 9 elements in 7 groups, has a minimum focusing distance of 20 cm, weights only 115 grams and will include aperture ring control. It will sell for $600 (currently on pre-order on B&H).

The new Leica DG Summilux 15mm F1.7 ASPH

Iddo Genuth

Iddo Genuth is the founder and chief editor of LensVid.com. He has been a technology reporter working for international publications since the late 1990's and covering photography since 2009. Iddo is also a co-founder of a production company specializing in commercial food and product visual content.