Leica M Monochrom Black and White Camera Announced

This camera only takes black and white photos.

German optics company Leica has announced the successor to its Monochrom camera, which is designed for black and white photography. While the previous model didn’t get the much-deserved attention, Leica is adding a slew of new features to the new model including high-definition video recording and live view previews.

Dubbed the Leica M Monochrom (Typ 246), it is considered to be the first and only digital camera to capture black and white pictures, still or moving. The major improvement is its 24-megapixel full-frame sensor, which is a huge leap from its predecessor’s 18-megapixel sensor. Another noticeable difference is the larger screen—3-inches and outfitted with 921,600 pixels (the older model had a 2.5-inch screen and 230,000 pixels).

Leica also added a 2GB memory and new processor, which allows the camera to capture sequences three times faster than the older version. The new Leica Maestro processor speeds up the exposition of captured images in review model. Best of all, the new Leica M Monochrom produces sharp images, thanks to its ISO of up to 25,000. And, to top it all, the camera features a sapphire crystal cover glass for the LCD monitor.

The new Leica M Monochrom will be available in black and will sell for $7,450 in the United States. Expect this one-of-a-kind shooter to hit stores on /4/7. Meanwhile, check out Ragnar Axelsson’s photos in Iceland in the video below. We’ve also included Axelsson’s sample images in the gallery for your viewing pleasure.