The Leica construction is characterized by minimal distortion, reflections, and ghosting. This is ensured by the recognized strict Leica standards in design and manufacturing. The lens consists of 14 elements in 10 groups. An aspherical and an ED element enable an extremely compact design without compromising quality, effectively showcasing the advantages of the Micro Four Thirds standard. Particularly valuable in macro photography is the OIS image stabilizer, which effectively suppresses motion blur during handheld shots or in low light conditions.

Focusing is achieved through an internal focusing system with three movable lens groups. This allows for consistently high image quality across all distances from infinity to 0.15 m (1:1), without changing the size of the lens. Additionally, focusing for both photo and video is smooth and silent. A switch on the lens allows for limiting the focusing range to 50 cm. With its 45 mm focal length, equivalent to 90 mm in full-frame format, the Leica DG Macro-Elmarit 2.8/45 mm Asph./OIS is also excellent as a lightweight telephoto and classic portrait lens.

When used with a Lumix G system camera, it supports the variable contrast AF system with features such as face detection. Seven aperture blades create a uniformly circular aperture, resulting in a beautifully smooth bokeh for subject details outside the depth of field at larger openings. The Leica DG Macro-Elmarit 2.8/45 mm Asph./OIS is equipped with a solid metal bayonet, and the multi-layer coating of the lens elements ensures high-contrast image reproduction without reflections or ghosting.