Solms, Germany (September 21, 2010) – Leica Camera is proud to present a new addition to its digital compact camera portfolio, the LEICA D-LUX 5, debuting at Photokina on September 21. The LEICA D-LUX 5 differentiates itself from its previous version by offering a faster LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON 5.1 - 19.2 mm f/2 - 3.3 ASPH. lens with an extended range of focal lengths equivalent to 24 to 90 mm in 35-mm format. Together with its comprehensive range of features and manual settings, the new LEICA D-LUX 5 offers a broader spectrum of photographic options. Its 720-pixel HD-video function in memory-saving AVCHD-Lite format and optional accessories, open up a whole range of additional photographic opportunities for discerning photographers.

"Thanks to ultra-fast image processing, simple handling and compact form, the LEICA D-LUX 5 is a truly unique compact camera with system character," says Peter Kruschewski, Product Manager for Digital Compact Cameras at Leica Camera AG. "It offers users endless opportunities for creative photography and allows photographers to capture the most spontaneous, fleeting moments in unforgettable pictures."

Suitable for a wide range of photographic situations, from macro and wide-angle architecture and landscape photography to reportage and portrait photography, the LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON 5.1 - 19.2 mm f/2 - 3.3 ASPH. zoom of the D-LUX 5 offers an extremely practical range of focal lengths. Additionally, its exceptionally fast maximum aperture makes it an ideal camera for 'available light' photography. Whether in unfavorable lighting conditions or for conscious manipulation of depth of focus, the LEICA D-LUX 5 is the perfect camera for capturing truly distinctive images.

Featuring a particularly large sensor for a compact camera, the D-LUX 5's 1/1.63"-CCD image sensor contributes to a significant increase in image quality, even at 10.1 megapixels. The sensor is finely tuned to bring out the best of the LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON 5.1 - 19.2 mm f/2 - 3.3 ASPH. Lens. Combined with the camera's electronics and firmware, it guarantees brilliant high-contrast images with natural color rendition and superb sharpness. Also contributing to its exceptional image quality, the D-LUX 5's pixels are considerably larger than that of other cameras.

The D-LUX 5 delivers images in 4:3, 3:2, 16:9 formats as well as 1:1, a particularly interesting format for creative composition, in both capture and review mode. The camera monitor has a wide viewing angle and a resolution of 460,000 pixels, displaying images in superb quality. An ideal and reliable tool, it allows photographers to precisely assess images both during composition and after capture.

The LEICA D-LUX 5 is characterized by clear lines and an intensely focused design. A true Leica Camera, the D-LUX 5's formal simplicity, intuitive controls and overall reduction to pure essentials reflect the company's culture.

Users can quickly and easily enter manual settings utilizing the D-LUX 5's innovative 'Clickwheel' located at the back of the camera. The D-LUX 5 also offers numerous automatic functions for effortless photography that guarantee photographers perfectly exposed and sharp images by simply pressing the shutter release. The camera's automatic functions control the O.I.S. image stabilizer, automatic ISO selection, face recognition, automatic contrast compensation and automatic scene mode.

The LEICA D-LUX 5 is supplied complete with the professional image-processing software Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom®. This software package allows photographers to 'develop' the RAW image files delivered by the CCD sensor to obtain the best-possible image quality. Simultaneously, photographers maintain complete control over the development process applied to their images.

The LEICA D-LUX 5's offerings are expanded by a range of optional accessories. The LEICA EVF1 electronic viewfinder is particularly useful when shooting under extreme lighting conditions. Mounted on the accessory shoe of the camera, it enables Live-View, a function that lets the photographer view the subject through the lens and assess the precise composition of an image just like when using a real system camera. The LEICA CF 22 accessory flash unit provides photographers with additional options for flash exposure and fill-in flash. A handgrip helps to ensure steady and safe handling of the camera. The optional accessories also include a choice of bags and cases – ranging from an elegant leather case with shoulder strap, an ever-ready camera case with to a stylish, soft leather pouch.

The LEICA D-LUX 5 in elegant black finish will be available for $799.00 starting October 2010.