The LEICA Summilux-M 90mm f/1.5 ASPH is a high-speed, portrait-length telephoto lens for the Leica M-mount system. It is recognized for its ability to create a breathtakingly shallow depth of field, roughly half that of the legendary 50mm Noctilux f/0.95, allowing for extreme subject isolation and smooth, "luscious" bokeh.
Key Specifications
Aperture Range: f/1.5 to f/16, featuring an 11-blade diaphragm for rounded bokeh.
Optical Design: 8 elements in 6 groups, including two aspherical elements and floating lens elements to maintain sharpness across all focusing distances.
Minimum Focus: 1 meter (approx. 3.3 feet).
Weight & Build: A substantial lens weighing approximately 1,010g, featuring an all-metal design and an integrated, twist-lock lens hood.
Price: Positioned as one of Leica's most expensive M-mount lenses.
Performance Characteristics
The lens is often described as a "special purpose" or "vanity" lens due to its weight and difficulty of use with a traditional optical rangefinder at f/1.5. However, it is highly praised for:
Micro-Contrast: Delivers a distinctive "three-dimensional pop" and exceptional sharpness where focus is hit.
Versatility with Adapters: While designed for M-mount, it is frequently used on Leica SL-system cameras (via M-Adapter L) where electronic viewfinders make critical focusing easier.
Low Light: The fast f/1.5 aperture makes it ideal for expressive scenes in minimal light.