Leica Photographers Finally Get Native Tethering Support in Lightroom Classic
Leica photographers can now enjoy native tethering support in Lightroom Classic with the release of version 15.0. This update brings direct compatibility for the Leica SL3 and Q3 camera systems, eliminating the need for additional plugins to enable tethered shooting.
“We are delighted that Lightroom Classic now offers native tethering support for Leica cameras. This development is the result of close collaboration between Leica Camera and Adobe, aimed at optimising photographic workflows and further enhancing the Leica user experience,” said Nico Köhler, Head of Product Experience at Leica Camera AG.
One of the key features introduced with this update is the live view function with autofocus point selection, which can be used directly in Lightroom Classic in real time. According to Leica, this provides photographers with precise control over exposure, aperture, ISO, and white balance—all from within the software.
This marks the first time Leica cameras have been natively integrated into Adobe’s creative workflow, a significant milestone for Leica users.
### Why Tethering Matters for Studio Photographers
Studio photographers often rely on tethering because it allows them to review shots instantly as they are taken. Connecting a camera directly to a computer—typically a laptop—removes much of the guesswork involved in confirming if the photos meet expectations. A larger, high-resolution screen offers a far superior view compared to the small, low-resolution LCD found on most camera backs.
“Seeing the photo as soon as you take it on a high-resolution, color-accurate screen really lets you focus on what it is you’re capturing. It lets you really see the photo and notice small problems that you’d never notice on the camera’s LCD screen,” Caleb Kerr explained in his 2017 guide to tethered photography. “I also find that seeing the photo full size lets me take a step back and gauge if the shoot is moving in the right direction creatively.”
### What This Means for Leica Users
With native support for the Leica SL3 and Q3 cameras now built into Lightroom Classic, photographers can confidently connect their cameras to personal computers or studio setups without compatibility concerns. As long as the software is updated to version 15.0 or later, tethering will work seamlessly.
This integration significantly simplifies the workflow, removing guesswork and streamlining the shooting process.
Lightroom Classic Version 15.0, including official support for Leica tethering, is expected to be fully announced this week at Adobe MAX. Leica photographers eagerly await this update to enhance their creative workflow and shooting experience.
https://petapixel.com/2025/10/27/lightroom-now-supports-native-tethering-for-leica-sl3-and-q3/
