ABOUT LHSA

The Leica Historical Society of America (LHSA) is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to all aspects of the Leica camera, including photography, research, history, documentation and collecting.

LHSA is international in scope, with more than 2,000 active members residing in 33 countries in the Americas, Europe, Asia and Australia who recognize the special distinction that the Leica camera system carries.

The Leica system of cameras, including lenses and accessories, is the oldest 35mm camera in continuing production. While it was not the first camera to use 35mm film, the Leica more than any other camera started the movement toward 35mm photography. No other miniature camera incorporated more innovations than the first commercially produced Leica that was introduced in the spring of 1925. Manufacturers in most major countries in the world have copied the Leica to produce some version of the camera’s design during the past 70 years.

The Leica system has been built with the highest standards of manufacturing with meticulous attention to quality and precision. Over the years, various models of the camera have been presented to royalty, presidents, scientists, explorers and others that were recognized for their accomplishments throughout the world. No other camera or precision instrument in history has received such universal recognition.

LHSA members’ interests overflow from active hands-on photography to research and documentation of the Leica system, and to collecting cameras, lenses and accessories made for the system. Attention also is given to literature relating to the system and individuals who use it.

The society makes every effort to research historical facts concerning the Leica system and to share this information with members through its quarterly journal, Viewfinder, which features articles about the Leica camera and system. Viewfinder offers special information of interest to users, collectors and historians concerned with the identification and use of cameras and accessories, both old and new. Viewfinder also provides information about worldwide current events relating to Leica. Examples of fine photography with details are present in every issue of Viewfinder.

The society also publishes the quarterly Leica Catalog. Members receive the catalog between the Viewfinder issues. The Leica Catalog features equipment and literature that members wish to sell or trade—or are in the market to buy. Only active members can advertise in the catalog and may do so free of charge.

Membership to LHSA is open to all who have a genuine interest in Leica products. Dues are paid when the membership application is submitted. The society operates on a calendar year (from January 1 through December 31), and membership includes all issues of Viewfinder for that year regardless of date of membership. Issues of the Leica Catalog published after date of membership also are included. Back issues of Viewfinder are available for purchase by members only. Back issues of the Leica Catalog are not available for purchase.