Leica has just launched the M11-P Safari, a new addition to its lineup of Leica’s Safari series. It is a rare blend of adventure and sophistication. I was attracted by its striking olive green color, which is something new. This new model pays homage to its military-inspired background. It features a classic design and strong technology. And, of course, the price reflects its quality.
Design and Enhancements
Leica’s Safari series has gained a large fan following over time. Since the 1970s, the classic olive-green color has represented a unique blend of rugged style and sophistication. This tradition doesn’t end here. The new M11-P Safari is keeping this tradition alive with its military-inspired paint job. It seems more enhanced now with silver details on the top plate, dials, and controls. Even the red Leica dot has been replaced by a simple silver screw. If it seemed like just another flashy gadget to me, I wouldn’t have complimented it. But, it really looks a refined camera.
When I use the term “sophistication,” I mean it. I think this might just be one of the most sophisticated releases in the Safari line yet. Leica’s name on top gives it a classic touch.
All the Features of the M11-P
The M11-P and the M11-P Safari aren’t much different. Both have the same features except that the olive shell of the M11-P Safari. It has a 60MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor (the one with triple-resolution technology), 256GB of internal storage, and a beautiful sapphire crystal display on the back.
Leica says that this camera can save images in DNG and JPG formats, with digital zoom options of 1.3x and 1.8x. Depending on your resolution or available storage, you can choose to shoot at 60MP, 36MP, or 18MP. This triple-resolution feature is quite remarkable. If you want storage, you can lower the resolution. But if you need high-quality images for large prints, choose the full 60MP. The choice is yours.
The company says in low-light conditions, the M11-P Safari can handle ISO settings from 64 up to 50,000. Also, menu isn’t tough to deal because its design is easy-to-use.
Now Comes With Digital Receipts
A standout feature of the M11-P Safari is its integration with Content Credentials, which securely embeds metadata such as camera details, authorship, and editing history into each image. This feature might not be too beneficial for everyday photographers. However, maintaining the fairness of your captures in a deepfake world is necessary, and press photographers and photojournalists may find this feature handy. I haven’t used this camera, so I don’t know how smoothly this system works. But as far as I know, the concept seems logical and pretty straightforward.
Good Match for Your Silver Leica Lenses
Another thing is its compatibility with silver M lenses. If you attach a silver 35mm Summilux or 50mm Summicron, it creates a great combination both in looks and performance. Leica says that their matching accessories, such as the cognac-colored leather strap and cases, make the appearance appealing.
Pricing and Availability
The Leica M11-P Safari is available at the Leica Store. It costs $10,495, which is $655 more than the M11-P. This regular model recently increased in price due to Trump’s changes in tariffs.
Personally, I’m fed up with all the usual black or silver options. In a black-and-white world, it stands out with its olive green colour. The M11-P Safari hasn’t received many internal upgrades, but it packs all the features of the M11-P in an admirable design. While it has many good features, it isn’t exactly cheap. After all, lmited edition + Leica = premium.
[via Leica; Image credits: Leica]
