A New Lens Embraces the Classic Leica Super-Six Formula
May 4, 2026
David Prochnow
Our resident “how-to” project editor, David Prochnow, lives on the Gulf Coast of the United States in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. He brings his expertise at making our photography projects accessible to everyone, from a lengthy stint acting as the Contributing How-To Editor with Popular Science magazine. While you don’t have to actually build each of his projects, reading about these adventures will contribute to your continued overall appreciation of do-it-yourself photography. A collection of David’s best Popular Science projects can be found in the book, “The Big Book of Hacks,” Edited by Doug Cantor.
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Today’s Light Lens Lab 50mm f/1.9 Rigid-ZS6 represents a modern interpretation of classic rangefinder optics, blending vintage character with updated performance for contemporary photographers. Announced as part of Light Lens Lab’s ongoing “Rigid” series, the lens draws inspiration from the historic “Super-Six” optical formula, a six-element, four-group double-Gaussian design known for its expressive rendering.
At its core, the Rigid-ZS6 aims to preserve the aesthetic qualities that define classic lenses, namely smooth, expressive bokeh and a distinctive color signature, while improving sharpness to better suit modern digital sensors. This balance between nostalgia and usability is a central theme in Light Lens Lab’s design philosophy.
One of the lens’s most notable features is its dual-version approach. Photographers can choose between a standard version, optimized for contrast and clarity, and a low-contrast variant (marked with an asterisk on the lens ring) that delivers a softer, more film-like tonal response with enhanced highlight and shadow detail. This flexibility allows users to tailor rendering characteristics to their personal style or shooting medium.
A Lens with Character
Physically, the lens is compact and robust, measuring approximately 45mm in length and weighing around 263 grams. It features a brass outer barrel with mixed metal internals, a preset diaphragm with half-stop increments, and a minimum focusing distance of 0.7 meters.
Overall, the Rigid-ZS6 exemplifies the growing interest in lenses that prioritize character over clinical perfection, offering photographers a tool that bridges past and present.
Technical Specifications for 50mm f/1.9 Rigid-ZS6
- Optical Construction: 6 elements in 4 groups
- Focus Range: 0.7m to ∞
- Aperture Range: f/1.9 – f/22
- Lens Mount: M-Mount quick-change bayonet
- Filter Thread: E39
- Length: 45mm
- Diameter: 54mm
- Weight: Approx. 263g
The Light Lens Lab 50mm f/1.9 Rigid-ZS6 will be priced at $799 in brass chrome finish. Ordering is scheduled to open on May 4, 2026. Both Standard Version & Low Contrast (“*”) Version: Fulfillment begins May 31, 2026. You can check out the retailers list on the company’s website.
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David Prochnow
Our resident “how-to” project editor, David Prochnow, lives on the Gulf Coast of the United States in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. He brings his expertise at making our photography projects accessible to everyone, from a lengthy stint acting as the Contributing How-To Editor with Popular Science magazine. While you don’t have to actually build each of his projects, reading about these adventures will contribute to your continued overall appreciation of do-it-yourself photography. A collection of David’s best Popular Science projects can be found in the book, “The Big Book of Hacks,” Edited by Doug Cantor.
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