Sigma DP1

Zoom: 3x
Megapixels: 14
Price Type: High-End
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Sigma has developed an integral-lens compact camera with the specs of a full-size, high-end SLR. In other words, the DP1 has all the functions of a full-spec digital SLR, packed into a compact camera with a built-in lens. Sigma is not about creating run-of-the-mill photographs, or pursuing image quality defined by numbers. It is a compact camera with the potential to capture exactly what you see and what you feel, with no compromise.

The DP1 is a completely new type of camera offering the full spec. and high image quality of a DSLR in the body of a compact camera. It is powered by the 14-megapixel Foveon X3 direct-image-sensor, which can reproduce high definition images rich in gradation and impressive three-dimensional detail.

It is possible to record images in RAW or the widely used JPEG in four resolution modes. It offers five Exposure modes and three Metering modes as well as being equipped with a built-in flash with the Guide Number of 6, hot shoe, neck strap and 2.5-inch TFT color LCD monitor with approximately 230,000 pixels.

The DP1 has the high resolution and functionality of an SLR, plus adaptability in terms of accessories, all built into a small body. A wide range of accessories, optical viewfinder [VF-11], Lens Hood [HA-11], and Electronic Flash [EF-140 DG] are available for the DP1 camera.

SLR-sized image sensor

The size of the image sensor used in the DP1 camera is 20.7mm x 13.8mm. It is approximately seven to twelve times larger than the 1/1.8-inch to 1/2.5-inch image sensors used in ordinary compact digital cameras. The pixel size of the image sensor is 7.8µm. The large photodiodes deployed at a large pixel pitch capture pure, rich light efficiently and give the DP1 its high resolution and richly-graduated tones.

Full-color image sensor

The DP1 uses the same 14-megapixel direct image sensor as the SD14. Utilizing the special features of silicon, which is penetrated to different depths by different wavelengths of light, this direct image sensor succeeds in full-color capture with the full RGB in a single-pixel location. Just like film, each photodiode captures all the RGB data, so no final-stage demosaicing is required. The DP1 incorporates the brand-new “TRUE” (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine), the world’s first image processing engine suited for Foveon three silicon embedded layer direct image sensor. The unique image-processing algorithm, which has been developed throughout the development of the SD9, SD10 and SD14 cameras, is incorporated into “TRUE”. It enables high-speed image processing and high image quality.

16.6mm F4 lens designed exclusively for the DP1

The DP1 is equipped with a 16.6mm F4 lens, equivalent to 28mm on a 35mm SLR camera, which has been designed exclusively for DP1. The large-diameter of aspherical glass provides low distortion and high contrast images. It also offers superior peripheral brightness. The super multi-layer coating reduces flare and ghosting. It allows photographers to take pictures in difficult light conditions. This lens and SLR-sized image sensor provides natural shallow depth-of-field.

RAW format recording

The DP1 includes JPEG recording format for convenience plus a RAW data (X3F) recording mode for retaining full image capture detail of the utmost quality. The RAW data format provides pure data for high-resolution images, and uses lossless compression for more compact, yet uncompromised, data files. The RAW data format of the DP1 keeps brightness and color data in a 1:1 ratio without relying on interpolation. Each pixel location captures the full color of RGB data, so in RAW, X3F files, brightness and color data can be kept in a 1:1 ratio without relying on interpolation. When the image is processed in Sigma Photo Pro, it will preserve the balance of the natural data for the best photos with the best image quality.

Exclusive Sigma Photo Pro software included

The DP1 comes complete with Sigma Photo Pro software, a RAW image developer that converts all RAW data quickly and easily. Adjustments can be made in three separate modes. The X3F Mode 3 stores the original settings of the image at the point of capture. In the Auto Adjustment Mode, the software analyzes and automatically makes adjustments to the RAW data. The Custom Mode allows the photographer to make individual adjustments (exposure, contrast, shadow, highlight, saturation, sharpness and fill-light for example).

The photographer can make changes easily and quickly by simply adjusting the slider controls within the software. The X3F Mode stores the original settings of the image at point of capture. Photographers` personal modifications can be saved to the RAW, X3F file for future use. Sigma Photo Pro supports 8-bit TIFF, 16-bit TIFF, and JPEG file formats. The JPEG can be saved as YCbCr 4:4:4. It is also possible to half, or double the resolution when processing the image.

Compact and lightweight body

The DP1 has compact dimensions of 4.5 (W) x 2.3 (H) x 2.0 inches (D) and weighs just 8.5 ounces. Its compact body and lightweight design makes it easy to carry everywhere.

Three metering modes and five exposure modes

The DP1 has three metering modes, Evaluative Metering, Center Weighted Average Metering and Spot Metering. It is also possible to select the exposure mode from Auto, Program AE, Aperture Priority AE, Shutter Priority AE or Manual. Exposure compensation can be set in 1/3 stop increments from +3.0 to -3.0 stops and an auto bracketing function is also available.

Pop up (manual) built-in flash

The DP1 is equipped with a pop up (manual) built-in flash featuring guide number of 6 (ISO100 / m). It is possible to use Normal Flash, Red-Eye Reduction Flash and Slow Synchro Mode. It also features flash exposure compensation in 1/3 stop increments.

AF area selection

The AF area of the DP1 is equipped with 9 focusing points and it is possible to manually select the desired focusing point. The focusing distance is from 50cm to infinity, however, it is possible to shorten the minimum focusing distance to 30cm.

Manual Focus

Manual Focus is available for photographers who like to take more control, or for use when autofocus or focus lock is not effective. It is also possible to magnify the display to ensure precise focusing.

Recording movies

It is possible to record 30fps movies with QVGA (320 x 240). The digital zoom function can be used during movie shooting. A 1GB memory card (not supplied) allows approximately 30 minutes of movie recording.

Large, 2.5-inch TFT color LCD monitor

The DP1 camera features large 2.5-inch, 230,000 pixel TFT color LCD monitor. The LCD monitor displays 100 percent of the images, allowing the photographer to easily and accurately confirm the image compensation.

Hot shoe

The DP1 camera is equipped with a hot shoe, allowing use of the dedicated external flashgun EF-140 DG (optional) or high-performance view finder VF-11 (optional). EF-500 DG and EF-530 DG flashgun series can be used in manual mode only.

Dedicated lens hood

This optional lens hood blocks out extraneous light. A hood adapter, designed to accept a 46mm lens filter, is included.

Photos of Camera

Camera Photo Sample

Manufacturer Claims

The Sigma DP1 is the first compact camera with a large sensor, which is the same size as that found in the Sigma SD14. The Foveon technology employed gives very high quality images in RAW format at ISO ratings up to 200, though the sensitivity can be increased to ISO 800 if needed.

Thanks to the fixed-focal-length 28mm f/4 lens, images produced by the DP1 have a quality comparable to some D-SLRs. Elegant, stylish and pleasant to use, the DP1 boasts an external viewfinder and a slick manual focus option for precise control. This luxury compact is a new departure for the digital compact, and reveals a promising line of development for the future.

Sigma took 1 year and 6 months to release the camera after announcing production, but when the camera came out, it was far beyond market expectations. The Sigma DP1 features a large, high definition FOVEON X3 sensor as used in the Sigma SD14 DSLR. Therefore this compact camera stands very close to a full spec DSLR, in terms of resolution and functions, with other attractive details including a built-in flash and a hot shoe, which are considered as very unique for a compact camera of this size.

via source

Detailed Specifications

Format

• FOVEON X3(R) Direct Image Sensor (CMOS)

Image Sensor Size

• 20.7×13.8mm (0.8 inch×0.5 inch)

Number of Pixels

• Effective Pixels 14.06MP (2652×1768×3 layers)

Aspect Ratio

• 3:2

Focal Length

• 16.6mm F4 (35mm equivalent focal length: 28mm)

Lens Construction

• 5 Groups 6 Elements

Shooting Range

• 50cm~??30cm~?(Full Mode)

Digital Zoom

• Approx. 3.0 times

Storage Media

• SD Card/Compatible with SDHC
• Multi Media Card

Recording Format

• Exif2.21
• DCF2.0
• DPOF

Recording Mode

• Lossless compression RAW data (12-bit)
• JPEG (High, Wide, Medium, Low)
• Movie (AVI)
• Voice memo to still, images (10 sec.)
• Voice recording (WAV)

File Size (Number of Pixels) For Still Images

• RAW

  High Approx. 15.4MB (2640×1760)

• JPEG

  High
  Fine Approx. 3.3MB (2640×1760)
  Normal Approx. 1.9MB (2640×1760)
  Basic Approx. 1.4MB (2640×1760)

  Wide
  Fine Approx. 2.7MB (2640×1485)
  Normal Approx. 1.6MB (2640×1485)
  Basic Approx. 1.2MB (2640×1485)

  Medium
  Fine Approx. 1.6MB (1872×1248)
  Normal Approx. 0.9MB (1872×1248)
  Basic Approx. 0.7MB (1872×1248)

  Low
  Fine Approx. 0.8MB (1312× 880)
  Normal Approx. 0.5MB (1312× 880)
  Basic Approx. 0.3MB (1312× 880)

File Size/Movie

• QVGA:320×240(30 Frames Per Second)
• Approximately 30minutes is possible with a 1GB SD Card.

White Balance

• 8 types (Auto,Sunlight,Shade,Overcast,Incandescent,Fluorescent,Flash,Custom)

ISO Sensitivity

• AUTO(ISO 100-ISO 200):With Flash(ISO 100-ISO 400),ISO 100,ISO 200,ISO 400,ISO 800
  Auto Focus Type Contrast Detection Type

AF Point Selection

• Selection of 1point from 9points

Focus Lock

• Shutter release halfway-down position(From Menu Settings AE Lock possible by AE lock button)

Manual Focus

• Dial Type

Shutter Type

• Electronically controlled lens shutter

Shutter Speed

• 1/1000sec to 15sec (between F4 and F5.0)
• 1/1250sec to 15sec (between F5.6 to F7.1)
• 1/1600sec to 15sec (between F8.0 to F9.0)
• 1/2000sec to 15sec (between F10 to F11)
• The maximum shutter speed is varied depending on F value.

Metering System

• Evaluative Metering
• Center-Weighted Average Metering
• Spot metering

Exposure Control System

• Auto Mode
• [P]Program AE
• [S]Shutter Priority AE
• [A]Aperture Priority AE
• [M] Manual

Exposure Compensation

• Steps up to±3EV for Appropriate Exposure

Auto Bracketing

• 3 pictures in appropriate, under, over exposure levels
• It can be set in 1/3EV stop increments up to ±3EV.

Built-in Flash

• Pop-up (Manual)

Guide Number

• 6(ISO100/m)

Built-in Flash Coverage Range

• 30cm-2.1m(ISO200)

External Flash

• Hotshoe (X Sync. Contact, dedicated contacts)

Drive Modes

• [1]Single
• [2]Continuous (3 Frames/second)
• [3]Self Timer (2sec./10sec.)

LCD Monitor Type

• TFT Color LCD Monitor

Monitor Size and Pixels

• 2.5inches / Approx. 230,000 dots

LCD Monitor Language

• English
• Japanese
• German
• French
• Spanish
• Italian
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Korean

Interfaces

• USB (USB2.0)
• Video Out (NTSC/PAL)
• Audio Out (Monaural)

Power

• Dedicated Li-ion Battery BP-31
• Battery Charger BC-31
• AC Adapter (Optional)

Battery Life

• Approx.250 shots(25?)

Dimensions

• 113.3mm/4.5″(W)×59.5mm/2.3″(H)×50.3mm/2″(D)

Weight

• 250g/8.8oz (excluding batteries and card)

DP1 Accessories

• Li-ion Battery BP-31
• Battery Charger BC-31
• Lens Cap LCP-11
• Neck Strap NS-11
• Soft Case CS-70
• Hot Shoe Cover HSC-11
• USB Cable
• Video Cable
• SIGMA Photo Pro Disc
• DP1 Instruction Manual