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The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review

01 Aug

The post The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Peter West Carey.

The Sigma sd Quattro H camera is a unique-looking, mirrorless camera with a unique sensor capable of producing sometimes astonishingly crisp images. The technology involved means this camera is not the first choice for everyone, but should certainly be under consideration by landscape, portrait, architectural and lifestyle photographers.

Sigma-sd-Quattro-H-Camera-review

I was loaned a Sigma sd Quattro H and the Sigma 14mm, 50mm, and 120-300mm lenses. I took the camera to Alaska, Washington, and California to test it in the real world.

Quick Stats

First, a few stats from Sigma’s website.

Sigma-sd-Quattro-H-Camera-review-2

Lens Mount	SIGMA SA bayonet mount
Angle of View	Equivalent to approx. 1.3 times the focal length of the lens (on 35mm cameras)
Image Sensor	Foveon X3 direct image sensor(CMOS)
Image Sensor Size	26.7×17.9mm (1.0in. ×0.7in. )
Number of Pixels	Effective Pixels: Approx. 38.6MP T(Top): 6,200×4,152 / M(Middle): 3,100×2,076 / B(Bottom): 3,100×2,076 Total Pixels: Approx. 44.7MP
Aspect Ratio	3:2
Storage Media	SD Card, SDHC Card, SDXC Card, Eye-Fi Card

Type	Electronic viewfinder (approx. 2,360,000 dots color LCD monitor)
Viewfinder Frame Coverage	approx. 100%
Viewfinder Magnification	0.96x (-1m^-1, 50mm F1.4 at infinity)

Auto Focus Type	Phase difference detection system + Contrast detection system
AF Point	9 points select mode, Free move mode (It is possible to change the size of Focus Frame to Spot, Regular and Large), Face Detection AF Mode
AF Operating Range	EV -1?EV 18 (ISO100 F1.4)
Focus Mode	Single AF, Continuous AF (with AF motion prediction function), Manual
Focus Lock	AEL/AF lock button is pressed or shutter release button is pressed halfway
Metering Systems	Evaluative Metering, Spot Metering, Center-Weighted Average Metering
Metering Range	EV 0?EV 17 (50mm F1.4 ISO100)
Exposure Control System	(P) Program AE (Program Shift is possible), (S) Shutter Speed Priority AE, (A) Aperture Priority AE, (M) Manual
ISO Sensitivity	ISO 100-6400
Exposure Compensation	±5 EV ?in 1/3 stop increments)

The big difference – a Foveon X3 Sensor

Sigma has chosen a different beast of a sensor for its sd Quattro H camera; the Foveon X3. A graphic from Foveon’s site describes it best.

The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review

Instead of using a Bayer pattern as most commercially available cameras use these days, the Foveon X3 captures each color, and luminosity information, at each pixel site. It accomplishes this because each wavelength of light is absorbed in different rates in a silicon chip.

Essentially, instead of having red, green and blue pixels side by side, the pixels are stacked on top of each other. This produces a sharper image overall. The overall brightness of the image is recorded on the top layer along with the blues. Here’s another way to look at it compared to the Bayer pattern.

The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review

The ‘H’ in ‘sd Quattro H’ represents the sensor size. It is not a full-frame sensor nor is it APS-C, it is in-between. The crop factor is 1.3x, still requiring a 40mm lens to equate to a typical 50mm lens on a full-frame sensor.

The Quattro’s sweet spot – image quality

Before we get to the downsides of the Sigma sd Quattro H, let’s cover what it does so very, very well; details.

No matter the lens (and I tested the camera with a Sigma 14mm, 50mm, and 120-300mm), the amount of detail you can pull out of images is fascinating. Image crispness is helped further by the sensor’s configuration, which does not suffer from moiré like other cameras with Bayer pattern sensors. I tried and tried to shoot and show some moiré, but it’s just not there.

Sigma-sd-Quattro-H-Camera-review-3

Landscape and portrait photographers will love the amount of detail in every shot. Lack of moiré increase its apparent sharpness without compromise, also making it a quality platform for architectural photographers. Add in the ability to bracket with three or five frames (and ranges from 1/3stop to 3stops between those frames), and the patient photographer will find much joy with this setup.

Below are 100% crops, along with original images, to help you compare.

Sigma sd Quattro H with Sigma 120-300mm lens – ISO 100, 252mm, f/4.5, 1/800

The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review

Sigma sd Quattro H with Sigma 14mm f/1.8 lens – ISO 100, 14mm, f/8, 1/500

Sigma-sd-Quattro-H-Camera-review-5

Sigma sd Quattro H with Sigma 120-300mm lens – ISO 100, 269mm, f/4.5, 1/800

The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review

Sigma sd Quattro H with Sigma 120-300mm lens – ISO 100, 206mm, f/4.5, 1/800

The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review

The downsides

Upon first using the Sigma camera, you will notice how slow it is. While this is not on purpose, it’s a side-effect of the massive amount of data the camera’s sensor creates. This large amount of data also drains batteries on the order of maybe 200 images shot per 1800 mAh battery (comparable to most DSLR batteries).

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Sigma attempts to mitigate the slow processing with an eight-shot buffer and a continuous shooting speed of 4-8 frames per second depending on image size and format. This does a decent job of helping the camera keep up with moderate action. Make no mistake, this is not a sports photographer’s camera, but in a pinch, it can capture fast action.

The buffer is the same no matter the file format (see below for file sizes). Even in JPEG mode, you will get eight shots then have to wait about one second between shots for processing and buffer actions.

Auto-focus is also subpar and often seems to favor the contrast-detection aspect more than the phase-detection aspect of its hybrid focus system. There isn’t much hunting, but in low light, it does struggle more than I would like. I often found myself defaulting to manual focus when I knew the light was not ample.

However, the camera does have a Focus Peaking option which allows live view focusing with a digital zoom for accomplishing precision focus in manual focus mode.

The sensor has a dynamic range of slightly less than 10-stops, giving pause to those accustomed to the growing dynamic range of most modern DSLR cameras.

The camera also struggles with detail in black areas in the frame. It turns on its head the “Expose To The Right” idea held by most DSLR photographers. An example below of a shot exposed to the right to as I would normally shoot it, along with a crop of the darker areas.

The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review

File options

In the past, Sigma cameras had two options: their proprietary 14-bit X3F format or JPEG. This meant either using Sigma’s Photo Pro software (currently on version 6) or outputting compressed JPEGS. You don’t spend money on a camera like this for the JPEGs, so it caused some consternation.

Sigma-sd-Quattro-H-Camera-review-9

The sd Quatro H has a new option which helps open possibilities: DNG files. All of us using raw file editing programs can rejoice and not have to worry about conversions. However, the format has a lower bit depth than the .X3F format.

File sizes vary significantly from format to format. A typical JPEG file will be 10-15MB, JPEG super-fine setting (explained in a moment) 25-35MB, X3F will be 50-60MB, and DNG balloons to 120-150MB. For a 64GB SDXC card, this nets about 3600 regular JPEG, 1800 super-fine JPEG, 630 X3F images and 410 DNG images, according to the back of the camera.

A full list of various file sizes can be found on Sigma’s site.

Image Quality – Comparing X3F vs. DNG vs. JPEG Super Fine vs. JPEG Normal

This next comparison is a bit tricky because we have to use Sigma’s Photo Pro to process and export the X3F file. I’m going to make all the original files available here (file download size: 210mb) so you can download them and compare without my need to export for web viewing.

There has always been controversy over how many pixels are reported on the Foveon sensors. Sigma says the images in X3F format have 39 megapixels, while the JPEG Superfine has 51 megapixels. Yet, the images that come out of the camera are 6192×4128 or 25,560,576 pixels = 25.5MP. So what gives?

The X3F file contains 25.5MP of data on the top later that records the blue channel and the luminance information. The next two laters each capture 3096×2064 or 6.39MP of information for red and green colors. Add those together and you get 25.5 + 6.39 + 6.39 = 38.28MP (I’ve done some rounding in this calculation).

The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review

The X3F has more bit depth and thus more information. However, Sigma Photo Pro is not the most refined program in the world and takes some patience to use. You will get the most out of the camera if you can take it slow and edit in Photo Pro. With that said, the DNG files are excellent (if a bit inflated in MB) and can be edited easily in Lightroom and other programs compatible with the format.

Lastly, what about that Super Fine JPEG format? I have to admit; it’s tempting to lust after 51MP out of a mirrorless camera. Yet, the quality of those shots is juuuusstt off the mark for my liking. Let me give you some 100% crops for comparison. I didn’t include the X3F version because the Photo Pro software is not straightforward on how to perform a crop, even after consulting the manual.

The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review

DNG format 100% crop

JPEG Standard Format 100% crop

JPEG Super Fine Format 100% crop

For my liking, that last one has just a little too much pixelation when looked at up close.

Shooting options

The sd Quattro H has all the standard shooting modes you’d expect: Manual, Program (with program shift), Aperture Priority and Shutter Speed Priority.

ISO is selectable between 100-6400, not quite the range we’re accustomed to with modern DSLR bodies. Further, noise becomes quite notable around ISO 800, making it difficult to get used to the higher ISO limits. It does have the ability to use Auto ISO and to limit the range, which I find useful.

The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review

While there are only nine focus points, arranged in a standard 3×3 grid, Sigma does give you the capability to change the size of the focus points in three steps, with the larger size covering a decent 60% of the viewing area. You can also select individual points instead of using all nine. This combination allows for a fair amount of control for wide-open scenes down to a need to focus on an individual stamen on a flower.

The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review

Useful features

Sometimes my eyes don’t seem to see straight, so I found the onscreen level to be very handy. It can be turned off for those who don’t want it, but for the rest of us, it’s quite useful.

The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review

Unexpectedly, the smaller LCD display on the back, highlighting exposure settings, battery level, exposure compensation, ISO, metering mode and shooting mode, is a welcome addition. Especially those using a tripod at eye height, which is when you have to stand on tiptoes to view the top display. Most of us glance at the rear display on our camera more than the front and this easy reference screen is handy. Controls for each of those items are located just to their right for easy, quick access.

The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review

As with other mirrorless cameras, having the histogram displayed in the viewfinder is a boon, especially when the dynamic range of the camera is less than 10-stops. Keeping the exposure correct with a histogram to help analyze a scene is very useful.

Controls

The Sigma sd Quattro H comes with two control wheels on the top of the camera. When shooting in Manual mode, the different dials, as expected, control shutter speed and aperture for easy shooting. The rear dial does not stand out too far and has just the right amount of tactile response when functioning. These functions can be switched around in the camera menu.

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On the back of the camera are multi-directional buttons to assist in menu and control selection. They are well placed and easy to access without removing your eye from the viewfinder.

Also on the rear of the camera is a selector switch for using the viewfinder LCD or the rear camera monitor while shooting. I found the camera was often slow in switching from the rear monitor (on most of the time the camera shutter has been pressed halfway to activate auto-focus) to the viewfinder. This slight lag in switching became annoying in constant use and while quickly reviewing images on the rear screen before commencing further image acquisition.

The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review

The solution for me was to use the viewfinder only. However, this slowed down my process as only reviewing of images within the viewfinder is less than ideal. I wish the switching mechanism was quicker.

The camera also has controls for changing what information is displayed on the various screens, adjusting focus points and auto exposure/autofocus lock.

Fit & Feel

Admittedly, the Quattro looks a little odd. It has a weird shape and the viewfinder seems to be in the wrong spot.

The grip is comfortable and makes all-day use easy. While not cupped in like some DSLR cameras, it has enough surface for a solid grip.

The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review

The viewfinder is off to the side to allow space for the hotshoe directly over the lens. This tripped me up more than a dozen times as I grabbed the camera, with its DSLR-like feel, and brought it up to my eye in the wrong location. Not a big deal, but it felt a little off at times. Those without a lot of DSLR experience will not notice anything amiss.

The camera feels solid like a quality DSLR while having less weight. It feels like a camera that can handle hard work for years to come.

Menu control

Before we get into the menus, the Quattro has a hand QS button on the top, just next to the shutter release. It brings up a Quick Selection menu (either in the viewfinder or back screen). This is where you’ll want to make most of your image quality and other changes. The menu options are selectable within the camera’s options menu.

You select the camera’s menu by pressing the obvious MENU button on the back of the camera. The top control wheels or the back multi-directional buttons control the menus. Menus are displayed in an over-down setup, much like Canon cameras.

There are six shooting menus, two review menus, and five setup menus.

The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review

Do I have to use Sigma’s app?

For those of you happily stuck in your ways with your favorite image processing workflow, the quick answer is “no.” Because of the sd Quattro H’s ability to produce DNG files, the world is your oyster when it comes to editing photos.

However, and this gets into the technical side of things, the DNG file has already had some processing done to it in its creation. There is evidence that the color balance of the original X3F file is easier to accomplish using Sigma’s PhotoPro software than working with the DNG file. This is because of the camera’s need to convert the information it collects from the sensor and craft a DNG file.

The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review

Sigma’s PhotoPro software has come a long way and will create better images for you than simply using the DNG file. Think of it this way; the DNG files are higher quality than the JPEG files, while the X3F files are higher than the DNG. Each step, from JPEG to DNG to X3F, allows for more latitude and control when processing your images.

My suggestion if you acquire this camera: take the time to learn Sigma PhotoPro if you want professional quality results.

Samples

Sigma sd Quattro H w/120-300mm Sigma lens – ISO 100, 171mm, f/3.5, 1/400

Sigma sd Quattro H w/14mm Sigma lens – ISO 100, 14mm, f/34.5, 1/1600

Sigma sd Quattro H w/14mm Sigma lens – ISO 100, 14mm, f/8, 1/500

Sigma sd Quattro H w/120-300mm Sigma lens – ISO 100, 300mm, f/6.3, 1/1600

Sigma sd Quattro H w/120-300mm Sigma lens – ISO 100, 300mm, f/5.6, 1/1250

Sigma sd Quattro H w/14mm Sigma lens – ISO 100, 14mm, f/6.3, 1/400

Sigma sd Quattro H w/14mm Sigma lens – ISO 100, 14mm, f/2.8, 1/1000

Sigma sd Quattro H w/120-300mm Sigma lens – ISO 100, 300mm, f/4.5, 1/800

Sigma sd Quattro H w/120-300mm Sigma lens – ISO 100, 300mm, f/6.3, 1/1600

Sigma sd Quattro H w/14mm Sigma lens – ISO 100, 14mm, f/9, 1/800

Sigma sd Quattro H w/120-300mm Sigma lens – ISO 100, 171mm, f/4.5, 1/800

Hidden option: Easy Infrared

One feature not often touted in Sigma’s literature or sales documents is its infrared capabilities. This will undoubtedly appeal to various landscape photographers because of its ease of use.

I was not able to acquire one of the needed pieces to make this system work before I returned the camera, but I was able to test the removal of the infrared filter. It is located front and center on the lens mount when the end cap is removed. After you remove the filter, you need a visible light filter on the front of whichever lens you use.

The combination of removing one filter and adding another adds full infrared capability without an expensive conversion typical with DLSRs these days. The versatility this adds could make it a likely option for those wanting to dabble in infrared photography but not wanting to lug around a whole other camera for the purpose.

Conclusion

The Sigma sd Quattro H camera is a mixed bag with a specific audience. They have made strides in shooting speed and buffering over time (the first iterations of their Foveon sensor cameras were quite slow, almost to the point of uselessness) and that has helped bring up overall usefulness.

If you are a landscape photographer and take things slow, this is a great camera for incredible detail. Travel photographers will enjoy the camera (if they aren’t shooting a lot of fast action) for the lack of moiré in buildings and other patterns found while exploring. I can also see macro photographers gaining a lot from the details and Focus Peeking feature.

However, the speed of shooting and speed of auto-focus can hold this camera back for the average photographer. It can be a bit frustrating to wait for images to appear and battery life is less than most of its competitors.

Have you used this camera? What are your thoughts? Please share with us in the comments section.

The post The Sigma sd Quattro H Camera Review appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Peter West Carey.

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Silkypix adds clarity tool and compatibility with Sigma dp Quattro series

14 Jun

Ichikawa soft laboratory has included compatibility with the X3F Raw file format of the Sigma dp Quattro series of cameras in the latest version of its Silkypix software application. Developer Studio 8 allows owners of the dp 1, dp 2 and dp 3 Quattro cameras to process the Raw files produced by their unique Foveon sensors.

The version 8 of the application also adds a clarity slider tool for the first time, as well as an updated control slider for noise reduction. Those who like hard copies of their images will be able to take advantage of a new soft-proofing function that displays pictures as they will be printed, and some general improvements to the user interface are said to make using the program more straight forward for everyone. Focus peaking is another new feature, and now a single license permits the software to be activated on up to three computers.

The application costs 16200 Japanese Yen (approx. $ 150) for new purchasers but those with existing licenses from software bundled with cameras can upgrade for a smaller fee.
For more information and to download Developer Studio 8 see the Silkypix website.

Press Release

SILKYPIX Developer Studio 8

RAW Photography Software for Windows and macOS Released

Ichikawa soft laboratory Co., Ltd. (Mihama-ku, Chiba-city, Chiba, Japan : Representative Director Yoshikuni Ichikawa) announces the release of SILKYPIX Developer Studio 8, the latest version of the RAW photo software series for Windows and macOS. It is immediately available on the ISL Online Store.

About SILKYPIX Developer Studio 8
SILKYPIX Developer Studio 8 is the standard version of the SILKYPIX Developer Studio series that includes adjustment of exposure, white balance and contrast, as well a correction tools such as dust removal and lens aberration.
In addition, it incorporates the advanced image processing engine as SILKYPIX Developer Studio Pro8, achieving higher image quality in high color separation performance, excellent noise reduction and more.

SILKYPIX Developer Studio 8 Key Features

Clarity Adjustment
Tone adjustment tools now include a clarity parameter to adjust the luminance level of each pixel based on information from surrounding pixels. Increasing clarity enhances details of the subject in a photo that may otherwise have muted features. Decreasing clarify results in a soft ambience with a soft focus. Clarity adjustment is a powerful tool for achieving desirable results especially in women and children’s portraits.

Soft proofing
Utilizing ICC profiles, SILKYPIX Developer Studio 8 includes a soft proof display that simulates the appearance of a photo as it may appear when printed. With this new feature, printing mistakes can be prevented, and printing result closer to the intent of the photographer can be obtained.*1
*1 It must be an environment where the monitor is color managed

Focus Peaking
Focus peaking detects the parts focused, based on from adjacent pixels in the image, and to display them with colors added to those parts. Focus peaking is extremely useful for analyzing the area of focus when the photo was taken.

One License for Three Computers
SILKYPIX Developer Studio 8 is used by photographers that utilize multiple devices including desktops, laptops and tablets running either Windows or macOS. Now each license can be used on a total of three devices in any combination of operating system.

Supports SIGMA dp Quattro series X3F file (RAW format)*2 (only supported with 64-bit)
SILKYPIX Developer Studio 8 has supported the SIGMA dp Quattro series X3F file (RAW format) equipped with Foveon X3®*3 sensor. With the SILKYPIX image engine color expression and various adjustment tools, the range of possibilities for creative expression in the SIGMA dp Quattro series X3F file (RAW format) expands.
Supported Cameras: SIGMA dp0 Quattro, dp1 Quattro, dp2 Quattro, dp3 Quattro
*2 It is compatible with SILKYPIX Developer Studio 8 series or later.
*3 Foveon X3® is a registered trademark by Foveon Inc.

New function / Improvement list
Tone – Clarity slider addition
Dodge / Color Burn (HDR) – Dodge and Color Burn can be individually adjusted
Noise reduction – Neat noise slider addition
Display warning – Soft proofing addition
Warning indication – Focus peaking addition
Preview display Select background color
Choose Rating Display / Non-display under the thumbnail display
Improved User Interface
One License Can Be Used on Three Computers

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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Sigma Quattro H Review

31 May

The Sigma Quattro H is a mirrorless interchangable lens camera with an APS-H (1.3x crop) sensor. It has a spacial resolution of 25.5MP but uses a sensor technology very different from other cameras, capturing around 38M pieces of information and capable of producing files with far higher levels of detail than you’d expect from a conventional 25.5MP camera.

Key Features

25.5MP Foveon X3 Quattro APS-H sensor
Hybrid (combined phase + contrast detection) autofocus system
JPEG, X3F Raw or DNG file output
2.36m dot (1024 x 768 pixel) LCD viewfinder
1.62m dot (900 x 600 pixel ) LCD rear screen
Dust and splash-resistant magnesium alloy body
In-camera Raw conversion (X3F only)

In keeping with Sigma’s history of idiosyncratic innovation, there are two things that set it apart from the majority of mirrorless cameras: the use of a full-depth DSLR mount (the company’s own SA mount) and the use of a Foveon X3 Quattro sensor, which captures light and perceives color very differently from other cameras.

Full depth SA mount

This isn’t the first time we’ve seen a camera maker build a camera around a full depth DSLR mount, rather than taking advantage of the lack of mirror to make the camera smaller: Pentax’s K-01 took the same approach.

There are two potential disadvantages of this approach. The first is, as you’d expect, the wasted space of building a mirror box for a camera with no mirror. The second, arguably more important downside, is that most DSLR lenses are designed and optimized for phase detection autofocus and they often perform poorly when asked to focus by contrast detection, meaning you have a wide choice of lenses but perpetually hamstrung performance. Sigma has tried to mitigate this by adopting on-sensor phase detection in the SD Quattro H.

If nothing else, the use of the full-depth SA lens mount means you can use any of Sigma’s impressive Art series of lenses.

The obvious appeal of using an existing mount is that the lenses already exist for it. Sigma produces SA mount versions of 39 of its lenses, which plausibly means the Quattro H has more native lenses available than any other mirrorless camera.

Foveon X3 Quattro Sensor

The X3 Quattro sensor is at the heart of what makes the SD Quattro H interesting and is, far more than any physical difference, the thing that most sets this camera apart from all its rivals.

As with all Foveon chips, the sensor interprets color based on the fact that different colors of light have different amounts of energy and so can penetrate the sensor to different depths. This is radically different from conventional designs that place filters in front of the sensor, throwing away around half of all the light so that each pixel only ‘sees’ light of a predetermined color.

Unlike previous Foveon chips, the Quattro design doesn’t attempt to capture full color information at every pixel, instead capturing more spatial resolution than color resolution. This is a fundamentally similar trade-off made by conventional sensors, so it’ll be interesting to see whether this latest design can maintain enough of what made Foveon distinctive while trying to offer more competitive results in other respects.

DNG capability

The other big difference is that the Quattro H can be set to shoot DNG files. These are produced by the camera deconvoluting its sensor’s output and writing them as ~150MB files with three 12-bit color channels. This means the files are significantly larger and theoretically less flexible than the camera’s native X3F Raw files.

The DNGs can’t be used with the camera’s in-camera Raw converter and you can’t shoot DNG + JPEG, but it hugely expands choice of software for processing the files. For this reason, the rest of the review will primarily be based on the camera’s DNG output.

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Sigma sd Quattro H real world samples gallery

09 Apr

ISO 200 | 1/500 sec | F5.6
Photo by Carey Rose

With a large APS-H sized Foveon sensor, Sigma’s sd Quattro H promises a lofty 51MP of equivalent resolution when compared to more traditional Bayer-sensor cameras. The sd Quattro lineup is also the first series of Sigma cameras ever to output Raw files in an accessible DNG format, meaning you can open them with almost any Raw converter, as opposed to being locked into Sigma’s Photo Pro software. Take a look through our gallery of cherry blossoms, cars, cityscapes and studio shots and download a few files to check out the impressively sharp Foveon rendering for yourself.

Check out our Sigma sd Quattro H sample gallery

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Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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Opinion: Shooting DNG on the Sigma sd Quattro H is a game changer

09 Apr

Introduction

With the changing of the seasons comes a big change in how I shoot Sigma cameras.
ISO 100 | 1/1600 sec | F5.6
Photo by Carey Rose

Fifteen years.

That’s how long it’s been since the release of the SD9, Sigma’s first digital camera, which was also the first camera to use the layered Foveon sensor design. From then on, for better or for worse, Sigma has continued to refine its unique layered sensors. While no one will argue that their cameras are capable of insanely sharp output, you still have to put up with an awful lot of shortcomings.

Early on, there was the low pixel density. And there’s still poor battery life. And Huge file sizes. Long card write times. Heat. Lots of heat. (And there’s plenty of other image quality concerns, as well).

But significantly, fifteen years is also the length of time we’ve had to use Sigma’s Photo Pro software to get any sort of decent results from these cameras. In the early days, you were almost forced into it, as the SD9 didn’t shoot JPEGs and Adobe Camera Raw support that was present up until the Merrills was laughable or simply non-existent. So until now, if you wanted to shoot Raw on a Sigma digital camera, you’d have to fire up Sigma Photo Pro and wait. And wait. And wait some more. And then relaunch it once it crashes, because crashing was a foregone conclusion (though to be fair, it is far less stable on Mac OS than Windows).

We as a staff collectively find, even above and beyond all of Foveon’s shortcomings, that the biggest hurdle to using Sigma cameras is their very own software. Even now, in the year 2017, Sigma Photo Pro is just painfully slow and unstable.

But Sigma is that rare company that listens to its customers. Last year while at CP+ in Japan our Technical Editor Rishi Sanyal was afforded a rare opportunity to sit down with the ever-charming, warmly receptive and almost unusually frank Sigma CEO Kazuto Yamaki and talk all things camera and optics. One of the topics covered was the usability of Sigma cameras, where we re-stressed the common request for wider Raw support of Sigma cameras but, more importantly, outlined what might go into making the most flexible DNG possible from Foveon Raw data. Just a short year later, the new sd Quattro interchangeable lens cameras can shoot DNG format Raw files straight out of the camera.

A hearty thank you.

And this just might be what Sigma needed to do to bring Foveon tech to the mass market – a place it really hasn’t been before.

Sigma + DNG = <3

The sd Quattro cameras’ ability to shoot in DNG means is that you can finally edit your Foveon Raw files using a converter other than Sigma Photo Pro. As you might expect, there’s a few caveats. When you enable DNG capture on the Quattro H, you don’t have an option to simultaneously capture a JPEG (although there is a whopping 13MB JPEG embedded in every DNG, should you want to dig it out).

The highest resolution output you can get from these is 25.6MP, which is the same resolution as the top sensor layer, as opposed to the upscaled 51MP files that are possible when shooting JPEG in-camera or using Sigma Photo Pro with an X3F file (but if you think you might want those files, check out the comparison at the end of our samples gallery). And while upscaled 51MP may sound suspect, the pixel-level sharpness of the Foveon files means it may not be as gimmicky as it initially sounds (we’ll reserve final judgement until after our in-depth testing).

Lastly, you’d better have a big memory card – the DNG files weigh in at around ~150MB each*. For comparison, uncompressed Raw files from the Nikon D810, Sony a7R II and Fujifilm GFX 50S weigh in at around 70MB, 85MB and 110MB, respectively (and two out of those three offer lossless compression to bring those sizes down anyhow).


Out-of-camera white balance	Adjusted in Adobe Camera Raw

Despite setting the white balance manually in-camera, the default DNG output was too yellow for my taste, but adjustments in ACR were a breeze. Click through to see the crazy sharpness.

Okay, enough with the caveats. Opening these DNG files in Adobe Camera Raw is an almost surreal experience. You still get the absolutely astounding crystalline sharpness Sigma’s cameras are known for, but now you can make any adjustment you’d ordinarily make to a Raw file, and with a decently powerful computer, it all happens in real time. No more making a small adjustment and waiting ten seconds (or thirty) for a full re-render.

So far, the files appear as flexible as one would expect from Raw: white balance works wonderfully, and you can turn all noise reduction and sharpening off. We’re still examining if the 12 bit DNGs are losslessly gamma compressed 14-bit data as we’d asked for, but it’s not clear this would matter anyway: 12-bit DNGs and 14-bit X3Fs show similar flexibility thus far, which makes sense given the comparatively lower base ISO dynamic range of these cameras.

The fun factor

So editing the DNG files is great, even if you need to pick up a couple extra hard drives to store them. But the real kicker for me is that it changed the way I shoot this camera relative to previous Sigmas. It’s just more fun.

ISO 100 | 1/500 sec | F4
Photo by Carey Rose

I ended up using the camera more and taking more photos just to see how the camera would render various scenes – and I was regularly blown away. I no longer had to worry about living with the JPEGs and poor white balance, and I didn’t have to go through a whole batch of X3F files over the span of an entire evening with Sigma Photo Pro.

Previous Foveon cameras I’ve used were good for some quirky fun, but I never really considered picking them up off the shelf after we’d put the wraps on our older sample gallery. But now, without the workflow woes of the past, the sd Quattro H is something I’m going to be using a lot more often. If you’ve never tried a Sigma camera before, now is the time to pick one up and have a go for yourself.

See our Sigma sd Quattro H sample gallery

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*Foveon sensors don’t directly capture red, green and blue information, nor do they require the demosaicing process required by Bayer sensors, so they require totally different processing (hence the historic lack of good Raw support). The Quattro H performs the necessary deconvolution and interpolation process required to derive red, green and blue information for each pixel, so that the Raw processing software doesn’t need to. Unfortunately that means having to save three 12-bit values for every pixel (which, given the lower resolution of the camera’s lower two layers, means storing twice as much data as was actually captured), resulting in 150MB files.

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Firmware update brings DNG support and improved AF speeds to Sigma sd Quattro

05 Apr

Sigma has released a significant firmware update for its sd Quattro cameras. Firmware version 1.04 adds support for the DNG format (12-bit), improves AF speeds with Contemporary, Art and Sports lenses by 10-30% and enhances compatibility with the company’s Capture Pro software.

Capture Pro now supports live view when tethered to the camera as well as the Quattro’s multi-shot SFD mode. Color rendition when using the EF-630 flash (with flash white balance) has also been improved.

Lastly, several bugs have been knocked out, including problems with the AF shooting button not functioning when AF Lock is being used.

Quattro owners can download the firmware right here.

Press Release

Sigma Announces Firmware Update to sd Quattro Cameras

Firmware Version 1.04 offers support for DNG formats, improved autofocus capabilities and enhanced functionality with Sigma Capture Pro

Ronkonkoma, NY – April 4, 2017 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading DSLR lens, camera, flash and accessory manufacturer, announced today the release of firmware update 1.04 for its sd Quattro cameras to boost the performance and broaden the capabilities of the detail-rich camera. This latest version of firmware is availble for download on sd Quattro cameras that currently have firmware version 1.03.

Among the benefits included in version 1.04 are support for shooting in DNG format (RAW 12bit) and further compatibility with elements of Sigma Capture Pro tethering software. Additionally, the update includes improvements that increase autofocus speed and accuracy of lenses from Sigma’s Contemporary, Art and Sports lines. Overall experience with the software has also been improved in version 1.04 to create a smoother, more stable software experience.

Full List of Updates in Firmware Version 1.04:

Possibility to save images in DNG format (RAW 12bit)
Compatibility with the Live View Display of Sigma Capture Pro
Compatibility with the SFD mode of Sigma Capture Pro
Faster AF speed of Contemporary, Art and Sports lenses by about 10 – 30%; improved AF accuracy
Improved color rendering of the White Balance’s Flash mode when used with the Sigma Electronic Flash EF-630 (the latest firmware for the EF-630 is required)
Bug fixes – AF Shooting button did not work while the camera was using AF Lock; adjustments on the marked images could occasionally freeze the software when the card had an X3I file in it
Improved software performance to achieve better stability

Full instructions on how to download sd Quattro firmware version 1.04 can be found on the Sigma website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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Sigma releases price and availability for sd Quattro H

15 Dec

Lens and camera manufacturer Sigma has announced UK pricing for its forthcoming sd Quattro H APS-H interchangeable lens mirrorless camera: it will cost £1500, and will be available for sale in January 2017. We’ve reached out to Sigma to confirm US pricing and will update this story when we have that information.

The camera was first introduced almost a year ago in February 2016 at the CP+ show in Japan. It uses a 26.6×17.9mm Foveon sensor that the company says offers resolution on a par with a 51MP sensor of traditional design. The sensor actually uses 25.5 million pixels, but due to the unique layout of the sensor Sigma claims it can record twice the detail of standard models.

The camera shoots DNG Raw files, uses both phase and contrast detection AF systems, a 2.36-million-dot EVF and Sigma’s SA mount lenses.

For more information see the Sigma website.

Press release

SIGMA sd Quattro H

The SIGMA Corporation is pleased to announce the SIGMA sd Quattro H, the new high-image-quality digital camera that incorporates the Foveon X3 direct image sensor (generation name: “Quattro”).

The RRP of the SIGMA sd Quattro H is £1,499.99 and they will be available in January 2017.

The SIGMA sd Quattro H is the first camera to feature the newly developed APS-H size Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor with incredible 51-megapixel-equivalent resolution. Featuring the SIGMA SA mount, the new camera is compatible with all of the SIGMA GLOBAL VISION lenses in the Contemporary, Art and Sports lines, and it is designed to take full advantage of these lenses’ superb optical performance. In addition, it is compatible with DNG format, and imaging software from other companies is also available for higher versatility. The DC Crop Mode, which is automatically activated when DC lenses are attached, makes it possible to take full advantage of your lens assets.

[Key features]

Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor
Leveraging the light absorption characteristics of silicon, the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor comprises three layers of photodiodes, each at a different depth within the silicon and each corresponding to a different RGB color. Since it is the only sensor to use this superior vertical color separation technology, it is also the world’s only direct image sensor. Requiring no low-pass filter needed to correct the interference caused by a color filter array, the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor is able to take full advantage of the information carried by light, including color information. The sensor features a pixel ratio of 1:1:4 in the bottom, middle, and top layers and applies the brightness data captured by the top layer to the middle and bottom layers. This unique structure makes possible fast resolution and high-speed data processing.

51 megapixel-equivalent ultra-high image quality
Other camera typically uses a single-layer photo sensor covered by a Bayer filter mosaic, which comprises 50% green, 25% blue, and 25% red squares. In contrast, the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor uses no low-pass filter and is able to capture 100% of the data for blue, green, and red in each of its three layers. Due to this unique structure, the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor can generate up to twice the resolution data of sensors using a Bayer filter. The SIGMA sd Quattro H features a newly developed APS-H size sensor (26.7 x 17.9mm) with 25.5 megapixels in its top layer for an equivalent total of approximately 51 megapixels. This larger sensor takes Foveon image quality to the next level, delivering more detailed images than ever before.

Dual TRUE III for high-speed processing of high-volume data
TRUE (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine) III is the dedicated image processing engine for the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor. SIGMA’s original algorithm processes data without loss of color detail or other image degeneration to deliver extremely detailed image expression with a noticeable 3D pop. In addition, by using two separate TRUE III engines, the camera is able to process data from the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor at extremely high speed.

14-bit RAW data
RAW data records the light information captured by the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor. Using 14-bit (16,384 gradations) signal processing to convert the analog output signal to digital results in photographic data with fine gradations that effectively represent the smooth, natural gradations of the original subject. RAW data uses lossless compression that prevents image degradation. Moreover, processing RAW data with SIGMA Photo Pro results in images with incomparable natural balance.

DNG format
In addition to SIGMA’s original RAW format (X3F), DNG (Digital Negative) format is available. DNG is the RAW image data that is developed by Adobe Systems Incorporated. DNG file makes it possible to develop images on other softwares, which gives more choices of expression.
*It is not possible to record the image data in DNG and JPEG simultaneously. In addition, the number of pixels to be recorded will change depending on the aspect ratio of shooting images.

New Super-Fine Detail exposure mode
The new Super-Fine Detail (SFD) exposure mode brings out the full performance of the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor. One push of the shutter generates seven different exposures, creating RAW data in the X3I file format. Using this data with the SIGMA Photo Pro software package, the photographer can create noiseless images with an extensive dynamic range. With this new mode, the more detailed imaging potential of the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor is fully leveraged. From each X3I file, individual X3F files may also be generated. The value of SFD exposure mode is especially apparent in studio photography.
Note: To prevent camera shake, SIGMA recommends the use of a tripod.

DC Crop Mode
The Sigma sd Quattro H incorporates an APS-H sized image sensor, and it automatically switches to DC Crop Mode, when DC lenses are attached. Also, it is possible to select On/Off of the DC Crop Mode manually. When a DG lens is mounted and the DC Crop Mode [On] is selected, the coverage of the LCD monitor and the view finder automatically becomes within APS-C size, which makes it easy determining the composition.
*If [On] is selected, the angle of view will be equivalent to 1.5 times longer than the focal length of the lens and the number of pixels to be recorded will be smaller.

Exclusive SIGMA Photo Pro software
SIGMA Photo Pro makes possible intuitive processing of RAW data, leveraging the full power of the information captured by the Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor. Operation is easy: the user simply adjusts horizontal sliders while viewing the photographs to create images that perfectly match his or her vision. In addition, the software turns X3I files created using the camera’s Super-Fine Detail function into high-resolution, noiseless images with outstanding dynamic range. Various modes allow the user to take full advantage of the image sensor’s fine tones and gradations and create monochrome images of impressive depth.

SIGMA Capture Pro software
SIGMA Capture Pro allows the user to control and capture photographs with the camera via a personal computer. After connecting the camera to the computer with a USB cable, the user can take photos and adjust the aperture value, shutter speed, and other settings. The photographs taken using the software may be downloaded to the camera’s SD card, to the computer, or both at the same time. The software also allows the user to continuously shoot a set number of photographs. While connected to the computer, the camera may still be operated and used to take photographs manually.

RAW onboard data processing
The camera can process RAW data (X3F files) into JPEGs without the need for a personal computer. The user can adjust the exposure correction, white balance, color mode, and aspect ratio while viewing the photographs on the LCD monitor.

Combination of two AF detection methods
Phase detection AF is superior for speed performance, while contract detection AF is superior for focusing accuracy. Combining these two methods in a single system delivers AF that is fast and precise at the same time. In addition, this approach to autofocus takes full advantage of the characteristics of high-performance lenses. The Single AF mode is optimal for everyday photography, while the Continuous AF mode is optimal for focusing on a moving object. In the latter mode, pressing the shutter button halfway causes autofocus to operate continuously, while Movement Prediction AF operates at the same time for more accurate autofocusing. A variety of other AF modes are also available. 9-Point Selection AF mode allows the user to select among nine focus frames. Free Movement AF mode allows the user to select the focus frame with high precision. Face Detection AF mode detects human faces and prioritizes focusing on them. The AF assist light incorporated in the camera body makes possible the use of AF even in low-light conditions.

Focus peaking function
This function puts a colored outline (white, black, red, or yellow) around the subject in the viewfinder for instant confirmation of the person or object currently in focus.

Continuous shooting of up to 8 images in RAW format
The DDR III high-speed, high-volume memory is approximately twice the capacity of that of the SIGMA dp Quattro. This allows the SIGMA sd Quattro H to capture up to 8 RAW images (X3F files) in High size during continuous shooting. Leveraging high-speed data transfer and processing, the SIGMA sd Quattro H offers a continuous shooting speed of up to 4.4 frames per second. (4.8 frames per second when it is set as DC crop Mode.?As a further option, when Low size is used, the SIGMA sd Quattro H offers a continuous shooting speed of up to 6.2 frames per second and continuous shooting of up to 16 images. (6.8 frames per second when it is set as DC crop Mode.

Aspect ratio selection
To accommodate various photographic needs, six different aspect ratios are available, including 3:2 (standard), 1:1 (square), 21:9 (similar to cinema widescreen), and 7:6 (similar to 6×7 camera format). When using an aspect ratio other than 3:2, the user may select a black or semi-transparent frame. The semi-transparent frame can serve as a sports finder, allowing the user to monitor activity outside the frame. The aspect ratio of images recorded as RAW data can also be changed in SIGMA Photo Pro.
*It is not possible to change the aspect ratio of DNG files after shooting.

High-resolution electronic viewfinder
The high-resolution 2.36 mega-pixel electronic viewfinder features near-100% viewfinder coverage and a 1.09 magnification ratio. The viewfinder incorporates three lenses with the outermost lens specially coated to ensure a clear field of view. Using a switch next to the viewfinder, the user can toggle between displaying the image in the viewfinder and the monitor. In AUTO mode, the camera automatically switches to the viewfinder display when the user is looking through it and to the monitor when he or she is not. This mode allows seamless use of the viewfinder to take photographs and use of the monitor to access settings and confirm results. For extra convenience, many functions of the monitor are available via the electronic viewfinder itself, such as setting values, grid lines, electronic level, zoom, focus peaking and more.

Dual monitors
In addition to the 1.62 mega-pixel 3.0 inch TFT LCD main monitor, the rear of the camera features a sub-monitor that displays the number of remaining shots on the SD card, shutter speed, aperture value, ISO level, and more. This extra monitor makes it easy to watch the live view and confirm key information at the same time. A sheet of special material lies between the two LCDs and the protective glass that covers them. This sheet prevents air pockets from forming and minimizes reflections, ensuring excellent display visibility in sunlight.

Electronic level
Allowing the user to view the camera’s horizontal and vertical position while shooting, this function is useful in precisely establishing composition.

Tough magnesium alloy body
The exterior and main frame of the camera body features a tough magnesium alloy. The rigidity and strength of this alloy significantly contribute to the reliability and quality of the camera as a whole.

Dust- and splash-proof design
O-rings and sealing material effectively seal buttons and seams to prevent the intrusion of dust and water, making the camera an excellent choice for pros working under tough conditions.

Dust protector on lens mount
To prevent the intrusion of dust and debris into the camera body, the lens mount features a dust protector sealed with optical glass. Additional sealing around the mount further lessens the chance of dust entering the camera body.

Intuitive user interface helps user focus attention on creative work
Building on the success of previous SIGMA user interfaces, the new UI is more intuitive than ever. Located next to the shutter button, the Quick Set button provides instant access to the Quick Set Menu, which allows the user to quickly adjust commonly used settings while continuing to look through the viewfinder. Located on the top of the body, the LOCK switch prevents the accidental pressing of buttons, helping keep the user’s attention on the creative work. The buttons that are locked with this switch may also be customized by the user. Located on the rear of the camera near the selector are several controls for commonly used functions. Easily accessed with the thumb of the right hand, they include the menu button, focus frame button, and AEL/AF button with lever.

Quick Set Menu
Located next to the shutter button, the Quick Set button provides instant access to eight commonly used functions, including aspect ratio, ISO, white balance, and color mode. The user can quickly adjust settings using the selector and front and rear dials. Users can also customize the functions included in the Quick Set Menu and the order in which they appear.

System camera compatible with all SIGMA GLOBAL VISION lenses
Featuring the SIGMA SA mount, the new camera is compatible with all of the SIGMA GLOBAL VISION lenses in the Contemporary, Art and Sports lines, and it is designed to take full advantage of these lenses’ superior optical performance.

High-resolution Super-High size images
A variety of file sizes is available to accommodate a wide range of user needs. Using High-size files brings out the best performance from the image sensor, while using Low-size files increases the number of shots that can be stored in memory. In both of these file sizes, the camera can simultaneously create RAW and JPEG data. In addition, the camera can create JPEG files in S-HI size, appropriate for large prints, as well as in S-LO size, which is ideal for online sharing.

Higher-precision white balance
A new algorithm enhances the precision of auto white balance, even optimizing white balance in images with multiple light sources. The Auto (Lighting Source Priority) mode leaves the color of light sources intact for extra atmosphere, while the Auto (Default) mode allows the camera to automatically make white balance adjustments. In total, twelve white balance modes are available, including three custom modes. It is also possible to adjust white balance based on the specific image and to set the color temperature in Kelvin. Moreover, each white balance mode can be fine-tuned for detailed correction of white balance and creative filter effects.

Full range of Color Modes
Color Modes can adjust color tones and contrast to best suit each photographic scene. The range of color modes includes Cinema, which reduces saturation and emphasizes shadows for a film-like effect; and Sunset Red, which emphasizes red for more impressive sunset shots. Color Modes make artistic expression easier than ever.
* It is not possible to select some of the Color Modes when it is set as DNG.

Custom bracketing display
This function allows the user to take a single shot but save several versions of the photograph with customized white balance, Color Mode, and other settings. This function can be combined with auto bracketing to help increase the chance of getting the perfect shot.

Monochrome options
The Filtering Effect allows contrast to be changed as if the images had been taken using a color filter for black and white photography. The Toning Effect allows warm, cold, sepia, and other color tones to be added to monochrome photos to emphasize the subject in creative ways. SIGMA Photo Pro makes possible optimal monochrome processing of RAW data without any color processing, producing high-resolution monochrome images with exceptional dynamic range and outstanding reproduction of the tones of highlights and shadows.

SD card
The camera is compatible with compact and portable SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. The camera features the UHS-I standard, allowing large volumes of data to be recorded at high speed. The camera is also compatible with Eye-Fi, allowing wireless transfer of images to personal computers, smartphones, and more when an Eye-Fi card is inserted (sold separately).

Dedicated high-capacity rechargeable lithium-ion battery
The camera includes the high-capacity BP-61 lithium-ion battery and BC-61 charger. The optional SAC-7 AC adapter allows the camera to run AC power from a wall outlet.

Dedicated cable release
By connecting the dedicated CABLE RELEASE CR-31 (sold separately) to the camera’s USB port, the user can release the shutter without touching the camera. This function is useful when the user wishes to release the shutter from a distance, avoid camera shake, or shoot with a low shutter speed.

USB 3.0 port
The USB 3.0 Micro B port allows the user to connect the camera to a personal computer to download high-volume image files at high speed.

HDMI port
The MINI HDMI Type C port allows the user to connect the camera to an HD television with an HDMI cable (sold separately) and view photographs, camera menus, and even the viewfinder image in high definition on a big screen.

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Sigma introduces trio of firmware updates for Quattro, MC-11 and 150-600mm F5-6.3

28 Oct

Lens and camera manufacturer Sigma has released three firmware updates that improve the functionality of its sd Quattro camera, the company’s MC-11 mount adapter and the two versions of its 150-600mm F5-6.3 zoom lens.

The update to the sd Quatrro camera deals with an issue that causes the camera to freeze when being controlled via the company’s Capture Pro tethered-shooting software package, while the update for the MC-11 prepares the device for Sigma’s new and forthcoming 12-24mm F4, 500mm F4 and 85mm F1.4 lenses. The MC-11 allows users to mount certain Sigma EF- and SA-mount lenses to Sony E-mount cameras, and the update improves AF accuracy of EF-mount lenses that aren’t fully compatible with the system. It also allows lenses with Optical Stabilizer built-in to switch off in-body stabilization systems to use the in-lens system even when the lens isn’t fully compatible with the MC-11. With the firmware installed the start-up time of the combination is also improved.

AF accuracy is also the main theme of the update to the 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports and Contemporary lenses in the Canon and Sigma mounts. The lenses will perform better when used with the MC-11 mount adapter, and with the sd Quattro in the case of the Sigma mount version. The update also reduces the sound made by the aperture blades in the Canon mount versions during filming both with and without the MC-11 – and the lenses are now fully functional with the Canon Digital Cinema Camera EOS C300 Mark ll.

Those with the Sigma USB dock can install these updates themselves, and those who don’t have it can take their lenses and MC-11 to a Sigma approved service center and have the firmware updates installed for free. For more information visit the Sigma website.

Manufacturer information:

SIGMA sd Quattro firmware download

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.
Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce that new firmware of SIGMA sd Quattro is available for download.

Benefit of the firmware update;

SIGMA sd Quattro [Ver.1.03]
It corrects the phenomenon where the camera stops responding to any operation after pressing [AF Capture] button, [AF Drive Only] button, and/or [MF Capture] button on SIGMA Capture Pro during shooting using SIGMA Capture Pro.

SIGMA sd Quattro firmware Ver.1.03 download page
http://www.sigma-global.com/en/download/cameras/firmware/

* SIGMA Photo Pro 6.4.1 is required to develop RAW data (X3F files, X3I files) taken with sd Quattro cameras with firmware Ver1.02 or later.

SIGMA Photo Pro 6.4.1 Download page
http://www.sigma-global.com/en/download/cameras/sigma-photo-pro/

Firmware Update for SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports / Contemporary in SIGMA and Canon mount

We would like to announce the availability of a new firmware update for the SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports in SIGMA and Canon mount, and the SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Contemporary in SIGMA and Canon mount. The firmware can be updated using SIGMA Optimization Pro.

The lens firmware update improves the AF accuracy and reduces the operating sound of the diaphragm blades when it is attached with the SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11.

For customers who own the following applicable products and the SIGMA USB DOCK, please update the lens firmware using SIGMA Optimization Pro.

Applicable products
SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports – SIGMA and Canon mount
SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Contemporary – SIGMA and Canon mount

Benefits of this firmware update

It has improved the AF accuracy when the lens is attached with the SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11.
For customers who own SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11, it is necessary to update this to the latest firmware Ver1.02.
It has improved the AF accuracy of this lens when mounted on the SIGMA sd Quattro (SIGMA mount only).
It has reduced the operating sound of the lens diaphragm blades when attached with the SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11 EF-E and used for shooting movies (Canon mount only).It has improved the AF accuracy when the lens is used for shooting movies as well as Live View on EOS DIGITAL SLR cameras (Canon mount only).*1
It has reduced the operating sound of the lens diaphragm blades when used for shooting movies on EOS DIGITAL SLR cameras (Canon mount only).*1
It is fully functional with the Canon Digital Cinema Camera EOS C300 Mark II.
*1 The degree of improvement differs depending on the camera used.

Please ensure the SIGMA Optimization Pro has been updated to Ver1.3.1 or later from the following download page before updating the lens firmware.

SIGMA Optimization Pro Download page
http://www.sigma-global.com/en/download/lenses/sigma-optimization-pro/

For customers who do not own the SIGMA USB DOCK, the lens firmware update will be provided free of charge but you will need to provide the proper documentation as listed in the instructions on the Service & Support section of our website

Firmware Update for SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11

We would like to announce the availability of a new firmware update for the SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11 EF-E and SA-E.

This firmware update supports the following new products; SIGMA 12-24mm F4 DG HSM | Art, which we started the delivery from October 2016, SIGMA 500mm F4 DG OS HSM | Sports and SIGMA 85mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art, which are scheduled to be delivered from November 2016. In addition, it has improved the operation when some lenses that are not fully compatible are attached. It has also corrected the phenomenon where the distortion correction figure is not indicated properly in the camera when the SIGMA 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM | Art is attached.

For customers who own the SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11, please update the firmware using SIGMA Optimization Pro.

Please ensure the SIGMA Optimization Pro has been updated to ver1.3.1 or later from the following download page before updating the MC-11 firmware.

SIGMA Optimization Pro Download page
http://www.sigma-global.com/en/download/lenses/sigma-optimization-pro/

Applicable products
SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11 EF-E
SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11 SA-E

Benefits of this firmware update

It is fully functional with the SIGMA 12-24mm F4 DG HSM | Art, the SIGMA 500mm F4 DG OS HSM | Sports and the SIGMA 85mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art lenses.
It has reduced the startup time between turning on the camera and taking an image by not initially driving the focus when the camera is turned on.
When lenses with Optical Stabilizer (OS) function that are not fully compatible with the SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11 are attached with the SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11 and mounted on a camera which incorporates a stabilizer unit, it enables the camera’s stabilizer unit to be turned off and the lens’s OS function to be turned on and off.
It has improved the AF accuracy of Canon EF lenses that are not fully compatible with the SIGMA MOUNT CONVERTER MC-11 (EF-E only).
It has corrected the phenomenon where the distortion correction figure is not indicated properly in the camera, when the SIGMA 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM | Art is attached.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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Sigma announces pricing and availability for sd Quattro and EF-630 flash

24 Jun

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Sigma Corp. has announced pricing and availability for its sd Quattro mirrorless camera, a bundle including the camera and a 30mm F1.4 Art lens, as well as the EF-630 external flash.

The sd Quattro is a mirrorless camera with an APS-C-size Foveon sensor (which Sigma claims is ‘equivalent’ to 39MP), hybrid autofocus system, 2.36M-dot electronic viewfinder and ‘Super-Fine Detail’ mode that combines seven exposures into one for high dynamic range. The sd Quattro will priced at $ 799 body-only when it ships in July.

The sd Quattro will also come bundled with Sigma’s 30mm F1.4 DC HSM Art lens for $ 999.

The company also released pricing for its EF-630 external flash. It will initially be available for Sigma cameras, with Nikon and Canon versions to follow. The flash covers a range of 24-200mm (and can go down to 17mm via its built-in wide panel), supports high speed sync and offers an easy-to-use interface via its dot matrix display. The EF-630 will set you back $ 379 when in ships in July.

Press release:

Sigma Announces Pricing and Availability for sd Quattro, new sd Quattro bundle and Sigma EF-630 Flash

Pricing and availability announced for the Sigma sd Quattro camera, a new sd Quattro camera and 30mm 1.4 Art lens bundle, as well as new EF-630 Flash

Ronkonkoma, New York — June 24, 2016 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading camera, DSLR lens, flash and accessories manufacturer, today announced the pricing and availability of the sd Quattro camera along with a new bundle including the sd Quattro and 30mm 1.4 DC HSM Art lens, as well as pricing for the new Sigma EF-630 external flash. The Sigma sd Quattro features an APS-C sized sensor and a redesigned mirrorless system among other advancements, and will be available in July for the street price of $ 799 USD. The sd Quattro and Sigma 30mm 1.4 DC HSM Art bundle is expected to be available in July for the street price of $ 999 USD. The Sigma EF-630 flash is the latest external flash from Sigma and boasts an overhaul from previous models, including a new docking station that allows users to update the flash via personal computer. The ideal match with the new sd Quattro, the new Sigma EF-630 flash will be available in July for Sigma mount for the street price of $ 379 USD, along with its dedicated USB Docking station for $ 79 USD. Additional mount availability for systems including Nikon and Canon are to be announced at a later date.

“Our goal with the sd Quattro and 30mm 1.4 Art bundle is to make our new camera available to more photographers interested in the unique aspects of our Foveon Quattro sensor,” stated Mark Amir-Hamzeh, President of Sigma Corporation of America. “The cameras are truly exciting and showcase some great advancements including a new mirrorless design, updated auto-focusing system, a rugged build, and paired with our renowned 30mm 1.4 Art lens make for an extraordinary pair. Additionally, our new EF-630 flash system shows Sigma’s dedication to photography with updated performance from previous models, and makes for an ideal pairing with our new sd Quattro cameras.”

About the sd Quattro and 30mm 1.4 DC HSM Art
The sd Quattro utilizes our proprietary Foveon Quattro sensor renowned for its high-resolution capabilities. A magnesium alloy body makes the sd Quattro durable and rugged, while a dust and splash proof design make it ideal for photographers facing harsh conditions. On top of the new design, these cameras boast a list of useful advancements. These include a two-mode Autofocus detection that combines Phase detection for focus speed and Contrast detection for focus accuracy. The focus settings have also been enhanced with such modes as Movement Prediction, Face Detection, Free Movement, Focus Peaking and a variety of others. The new 2.3 megapixel viewfinder displays close to 100% of the field of view, and when placed in “Auto” will toggle between the viewfinder when the user has the camera to their eye and then to the LCD when the user lowers the camera. A new “Super-Fine Detail” mode brings out the full potential of the Quattro sensor by capturing seven different exposures with one shot and merging them for exceptional dynamic range (images can be extracted individually as well). The Sigma 30mm 1.4 DC HSM Art is a staple prime lens in Sigma’s lineup. This compact prime lens is designed for APS-C sensors and touts a bright 1.4 aperture. Part of the Sigma Global Vision lineup, every Sigma 30mm 1.4 Art is individually tested before leaving our single factory in Aizu, Japan and can be updated and fine-tuned with the Sigma USB dock and Sigma Photo Pro software.

About the Sigma EF-630 Flash
Compatible with most well-known digital SLR cameras, the EF-630 flash will be available in Sigma mount in July with additional mounts, including Canon and Nikon, in the future. The FP Flash function of the EF-630 makes flash photography possible at shutter speeds greater than the normal sync speed, which is typically limited at shutter speeds up to 1/250 second for most cameras. The FP Flash function for high shutter speeds is necessary when setting a larger aperture to limit depth of field when shooting in daylight, as high shutter speeds are used to balance the daylight and the flashlight at any shutter speed.

EF-630 features:

Intuitive user interface: dot matrix LCD screen for improved menu visibility, D-Pad and dial settings controls, and easy one-click disengage function improve ease of use
Slave flash function: for use with multiple flash systems
Modeling flash function: check for intense reflections and shadows before capturing the shot
AF assist light: accurate auto-focus in low light conditions
Auto Power-off: flashgun automatically powers off after a period of non-operation to conserve battery life
Manual flash power level control: manually set the flash power level from 1/1 to 1/128

The new EF-630 Flash can be updated with the latest software from a workstation or laptop using the Sigma Optimization Pro software and Flash USB Dock FD-11 (sold separately).

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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Sigma announces sd Quattro and sd Quattro H Foveon mirrorless cameras

24 Feb

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Sigma has announced two mirrorless ILCs: the Sigma sd Quattro and the sd Quattro H. Both cameras use the company’s full-depth SA lens mount as used in its SLRs, and are built around APS-C and APS-H sized sensors, respectively. The cameras share a body design with a built-in viewfinder that, while unusual, appears more ergonomically conventional than the recent DP Quattro series of large-sensor compacts.

Both cameras feature on-sensor phase detection as part of a hybrid AF system, which should mean they work effectively with existing SA-mount lenses. The down-side is that it reduces the range of lenses that could be added via adapter.

Both cameras use the latest, ‘Quattro’ version of Sigma’s Foveon technology, which measures different color information based on how deeply into the sensor it is able to penetrate. The Quattro design features full resolution at the top (predominantly blue-sensing) layer but then 1/4 of that resolution for the two deeper layers used to interpret information about red and green color components.

The APS-H sensor features 25.5MP in its top layer, which the company considers equivalent to the capture of a 51 megapixel sensor using the conventional Bayer design. This 26.6 x 17.9mm sensor is around 30% larger than the more common APS-C size, but it’s currently unclear what proportion of Sigma’s ‘DC’ lenses designed for APS-C offer a large enough image circle for use with the camera.

The APS-C version uses a phase-detection capable variant of the sensor used in the existing DP Quattros, offering 19.6MP on its top layer. Sigma says this should offer a level of detail comparable with a 39MP Bayer chip. (Foveon explained the logic of these claims when we spoke to them a few years ago).

The cameras feature two rear screens, one of which displays the camera’s current settings. They also feature USB 3.0 interfaces. A vertical/battery grip will be available.

Press Release:

Sigma Announces Two New Mirrorless Cameras: Sigma sd Quattro and sd Quattro H

Interchangeable lens APS-C and APS-H Foveon Quattro sensors in state-of-the-art camera systems

KANAGAWA, JAPAN — February 23, 2016 — Sigma Corporation of America, a leading camera, DSLR lens, flash and accessories manufacturer, today announced the new high-performance, compact Sigma sd Quattro and Sigma sd Quattro H mirrorless camera systems with Foveon Quattro sensors. The Sigma sd Quattro features an APS-C sized sensor and the Sigma sd Quattro H touting a larger APS-H sized sensor for even greater image quality. Thanks to the mirrorless aspect of the cameras, both the sd Quattro and sd Quattro H are designed to take full advantage of all Sigma Global Vision lenses.

“With the introduction of these two new cameras, Sigma continues its rich history of innovation. The Foveon sensor is renowned for its imaging characteristics, and the mirrorless interchangeable format offers photographers the full line of Sigma Global Vision lenses to help realize their creative visions,” stated Mark Amir-Hamzeh, President of Sigma Corporation of America. “The sharpness of detail and nuanced color tone captured by the Foveon sensors is a key component of Sigma Global Vision. The sd Quattro, and the sd Quattro H, with the newly announced Foveon Quattro APS-H sensor, will be greatly appreciated by photographers who demand the utmost in imaging purity, with the added benefit of portability for both in-studio and on-location photography.”

Both the sd Quattro and sd Quattro H feature similar design aspects with a compact form consistent with the dp Quattro line, making them highly portable and utilizing the Foveon Quattro sensor for exceptional imaging quality and fast processing. A magnesium alloy body makes the sd Quattro and sd Quattro H durable and rugged, while a dust- and splash-proof design makes it ideal for photographers facing harsh conditions. In addition to the new body design, both cameras boast a list of useful advancements. These include a two-mode Autofocus detection that combines Phase Detection for focus speed and Contrast Detection for focus accuracy. The focus settings have also been enhanced with such modes as Movement Prediction, Face Detection, Free Movement, Focus Peaking and a variety of others. The new 2.3 megapixel viewfinder displays close to 100% of the field of view and when placed in “Auto” will toggle between the viewfinder when the user has the camera to their eye and then to the LCD when the user lowers the camera. A new “Super-Fine Detail” mode brings out the full potential of the Quattro sensor by capturing seven different exposures with one shot and merging them for exceptional dynamic range (images can be extracted individually as well). Meanwhile an updated algorithm for the Auto White Balance allows for greater accuracy, even with multiple light sources.

While the sd Quattro and sd Quattro H are similar in physical design details, they stand apart when their Foveon sensors are compared. The sd Quattro utilizes the same sensor found in the dp Quattro line and produces image quality comparable to that of a 39 megapixel Bayer-pattern sensor on resolution testing. The stacked silicon Foveon Direct Imaging sensor captures all detail information on the top 19.6 megapixel layer along with all color information for the Blue channel, while the two five-megapixel layers below capture Red and Green color information, all without the need for a low pass filter. Merged together they create incredible image quality that is comparable to medium format files. The sd Quattro H boasts a larger APS-H sensor (26.6×17.9mm) than the sd Quattro and can produce images equivalent to that of a 51-megapixel Bayer-pattern sensor camera on resolution testing. The sensor structure is similar to that of the sd Quattro but uses a 25.5 megapixels on the top layer of the sensor that captures the detail information. Both cameras use the latest Dual TRUE III image processor and take full advantage of the Art, Contemporary and Sport line Global Vision lenses that are made for high megapixel cameras. Like all Sigma Cameras, RAW (X3F) data can processed via Sigma Photo Pro, which offers editing options, including Monochrome mode to take advantage of the incredible monochrome images the Foveon sensor captures.

Sigma sd Quattro specifications

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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