Leica has announced the release of a new version of its Sofort hybrid instant camera called the Sofort 2.
The new camera is essentially a digital camera which prints on to paper, like Fujifilm’s Instax Mini Evo and the Kodak Mini Shot 3.
The new camera, available from November, is a follow-up to the original Sofort which was released in 2019.
Leica said in a press release: “Decades ago, the instantly printed photo symbolised acceleration, whereas it now represents a moment of caution and relief to contrast today’s fast-paced world. It’s no wonder that the fascination with instant photography is thriving once again, and now, with the Leica Sofort 2, Leica Camera AG is introducing the second generation of their instant camera. This hybrid camera seamlessly combines fleeting digital moments with the enduring analogue world.
“The Sofort 2’s new features primarily include the option to permanently save digital images and choose the best shots before printing them. This includes all photos on your smartphone and those taken with other Leica cameras, which are already stored in the gallery of the seamlessly connected Leica Fotos App and can be transferred to the camera to be printed as instant photos. Simply pull the manual printing lever on the camera, and seconds later, you’ll have the print on Instax Mini format photo paper in your hands on Leica’s exclusive photo paper with a warm-white or golden frame.”
The new camera is available in red, black and white and has a range of features including:
- A selfie mode with separate shutter button
- A landscape mode with “wide-angle character”
- A macro mode for close-up from as near as 10cm (4in)
- 10 different lens and 10 different film effects
Leica is also releasing a number of accessories alongside the camera, including photo frames, wrist straps and carrying bags.
The Sofort 2 will be available to buy from Leica Stores and other dealers from 9 November and in the UK will cost £350 including VAT.
I'm a New Zealander who has been living in London since the mid-1990s, shooting film seriously since the year 2000. Kosmo Foto was launched in 2012 and has since become a film brand, with the release of my first films Kosmo Foto Mono 35mm (2017) and Kosmo Foto Mono 120 (2019).
I’m doing everything I can to promote film photography in the 21st Century, and help it survive and thrive. If you want to write something for Kosmo Foto, please drop me a line at foto.dowling@gmail.com.
