Leica is the first name in professional cameras, no argument. From pioneer Henri Cartier-Bresson to the provocative images of Helmut Newton, the greats have relied on Germany’s premium camera brand. Prices have never been exactly affordable, but now the company’s released the LUX - capital letters theirs, and thus essential - Grip for your iPhone so basically you can be the professional photographer you always wanted to be. ‘Vogue’ will be on the line shortly.
It’s a hundred years since Leica debuted their very first camera at the Leipzig Spring Fair. It was the first 35 mm camera to be mass produced, a fact of which the company is justly proud. So it’s hardly a surprise that Leica’s taken its time in producing a physical accessory for the iPhone, designed to complement its highly praised LUX Pro app, which allows your phone camera to produce signature looks available from a Leica camera.
The LUX Grip is designed to provide the feel and handling of one of the company’s legendary cameras. The grip connects using so-called MagSafe technology, utilising the magnets installed in every generation from the iPhone 12 onwards. Bluetooth is used to communicate with your iPhone. Basically, it’s a doddle to set up, though you do need to have downloaded the LUX Pro app to make the most of the grip.
Leica LUX Grip: Pro-camera feel from your phone
Idea is that you’ll feel like you’re using a professional camera so there’s a two stage shutter release. Focus with a light press, and then when you’re sure the image is perfect, take the shot. There’s a deliberate mindfulness in this operation which recalls the era of analogue film cameras - naturally we have our own - and enhances the experience of photography.
What’s more the built-in control dial allows precise selection of zoom, aperture, shutter speed and exposure compensation. All of the creative tools that you’ll need to take the perfect image are in your hands. It’s a lightweight item - just 130 grams say Leica - and is adjustable for left or right handed use. Leica point out that when you’re using the complementary app, you can reach for the famous Leica look, “lending digital photography an analogue character” as the company puts it.
As we’ve said, nothing in the rarified world of Leica is exactly cheap. You don’t get to reach a hundred celebrated years in the hands of the world’s greatest photographers and charge nothing for the privilege of all of that heritage. So while the Leica LUX Grip is bargain basement for Leica, its price still reflects the premium name: think £300 and you’re just about there. But then you do get a whole year’s subscription to the LUX Pro app, which it’s designed to work with, and that’s worth £70. And look it makes your phone into a Leica - and since, for example a new Leica Reporter will set you back £6,200, it’s a bargain, yes? We’re ready for our close-up now.
Next up: The most stylish camera accessories to carry your kit.
