Editor's Choice 2007

EDITOR'S CHOICE SLR Lenses

Leica Tri-Elmar-M 16-18-21mm f/4 ASPH

Not just a zoom wannabe, this unique lens is the best of two worlds for rangefinder photographers. It offers three focal lengths in a single lens, selectable with a ring on the barrel, so you don't have to change lenses on the fly when you're shooting in the wide-angle range. Yet the focal lengths are all fixed, so you won't be tempted to cheat your composition by zooming. You'll have to use your feet instead. Though you get the new lens's stated focal lengths on a 35mm Leica M -- with excellent rectilinear performance throughout -- the new lens is really more useful on the new Leica M8 digital rangefinder, on which it gives you the prime equivalents (in 35mm) of about 21mm, 24mm, and 28mm. Rangefinder photography with digital capture and an adjustable wide angle -- what more could a modern-day street photographer want? About $3,500.

Read more on the Leica Tri-Elmar-M 16-18-21mm f/4 ASPH. Next product: Sigma 50-150mm f/2.8 APO EX DC HSM.