Leica M11-P Rangefinder Camera Body (Safari Edition)

Leica cameras have played a vital role in documenting history, with the M-series long favored by photojournalists for capturing iconic moments. Continuing this legacy, the Leica M11-P blends classic design with modern innovation, building on the foundation of the M11 while introducing key upgrades. It becomes the world’s first camera to support Content Authenticity Initiative (CAI) technology - an effort spearheaded by Adobe, Leica, and The New York Times to preserve digital image integrity. This tech shows up as Leica Content Credentials, embedding secure, verifiable metadata at the moment of capture, allowing viewers and editors to confirm image authenticity. Functionally identical to the standard M11-P, the limited-edition M11-P Safari model stands out with its matte olive-green finish, silver accents, and engraved top plate, continuing Leica’s tradition of distinctive Safari designs dating back to the 1970s.

The M11-P maintains the "P" series’ discreet look by replacing the iconic red dot with a minimal engraved Leica script, and includes several enhancements aimed at professionals. These include a dark chrome viewfinder, 256GB of internal memory, sapphire glass over the rear LCD, and an understated, logo-free design. At its core is a high-resolution 60MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor, delivering exceptional detail and improved performance in low light. The ultrathin dual-layer filter glass improves image clarity by filtering out UV and IR light, enhancing results from Leica M lenses. A new addition to the M lineup is Triple Resolution Technology, allowing shooters to choose between 60MP, 36MP, or 18MP output without cropping, optimizing detail, dynamic range, and noise performance across all modes.

Powered by the Maestro III processor, the M11-P delivers quick performance, a wide ISO range of 64–50000, and supports continuous shooting at up to 4.5 fps. It also features a fast electronic shutter with speeds up to 1/16,000 sec—ideal for fast lenses—and retains a mechanical shutter for traditional shooting. Digital zoom options simulate longer focal lengths, while new metering modes like multi-field exposure improve overall shooting accuracy. Long exposure noise reduction and faster menu navigation streamline usability. Though it remains a photo-only camera emphasizing manual operation, the M11-P integrates practical updates that make it the most modern M to date.

Design-wise, it takes inspiration from the iconic Leica M3, offering a clean, minimal aesthetic and intuitive handling. The bright 0.73x optical viewfinder includes parallax correction and selectable frame lines for various focal lengths. A 2.95" 2.3m-dot touchscreen with scratch-resistant sapphire glass offers clear viewing even in bright light. Live view stabilization helps users achieve more precise manual focus when using longer lenses, and the revamped interface mirrors that of the Leica Q and SL lines for consistency across systems.

The M11-P’s construction reflects thoughtful evolution. The Safari edition features a brass top plate with olive-green leatherette and a simplified base design that eliminates the removable plate found on earlier models. Instead, a high-capacity BP-SCL7 battery inserts directly into the base, offering up to 1700 shots with the optical viewfinder. A single UHS-II SD card slot is integrated into the battery compartment, and the camera’s 256GB internal memory offers ample storage or dual recording options. A USB-C port supports in-camera charging and file transfer and works seamlessly with the Leica FOTOS Cable for direct iPhone connectivity via the FOTOS app. Wireless features include Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for remote operation, geotagging, and in-app image rating and favoriting, making the M11-P a versatile and future-focused tool for photographers who value authenticity, design, and performance.