Photo Rumors » Sigma

Sigma DP1 Merrill and DP2 Merrill 46MP cameras announced

PR admin — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:39:57 +0000

Sigma DP1 Merrill

Sigma DP2 Merrill

In addition to the SD1 price reduction, Sigma also announced the DP1 Merrill and DP2 Merrill compact cameras that will have the same 46MP APS-C X3 sensor from the SD1. Now, this is something interesting. Pricing was not announced.

The DP1 has a 19mm f/2.8 lens (equivalent to 28mm), the DP2 has a 30mm f/2.8 lens (45mm equivalent).

Press release:

Sigma Corporation announces next-generation compact cameras named in honor of Foveon innovator
DP1 Merrill and DP2 Merrill now incorporate 46-megapixel, full-color image sensor
Ronkonkoma, NY, Feb. 8, 2012 – Sigma Corporation of America (www.sigmaphoto.com), a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider for some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, today announced the new Merrill series of digital cameras with the introduction of the DP1 Merrill and DP2 Merrill. The Merrill series is named in honor of Richard “Dick” Merrill, the co-creator of the Foveon X3 Direct Image Sensor technology that powers Sigma’s unique lineup of cameras.
These upgraded, high resolution, fixed lens compact digital cameras now incorporate the same APS-C sized 46-megapixel X3 image sensor found in the company’s flagship SD1 SLR, now also known as the Sigma SD1 Merrill. This name change not only pays homage to Merrill, but it also reflects new production efficiencies that will result in a substantial reduction in the camera’s market price starting next month.
Merrill (1949-2008) was a brilliant engineer, talented photographer and Foveon co-founder. He tapped into his passion for electronics to build an innovative pixel structure that uniquely demonstrated the ability to capture RGB information in each pixel location. This revolutionary discovery led the Foveon team to the development of the X3 Direct Image Sensor and, ultimately, to the creation of some of the most vibrantly colored and detailed imagery the photography industry has ever seen. Sigma acquired Foveon in late 2008.
“This revolutionary image capture system reflects both the artistic and technological sides of Merrill’s personality,” said Kazuto Yamaki, CEO of Sigma Corporation. “As an expression of Sigma’s passion for photography and in honor of Dick Merrill’s genius, we have named the latest generation of the Foveon X3 Direct Image Sensor the Foveon Merrill.”
The Sigma DP1 Merrill and DP2 Merrill each boast exclusively-designed, high-performance telecentric fixed lenses. The DP1 Merrill features a wide, 19mm F2.8 lens, which is the equivalent to a 28mm lens on a 35mm SLR camera. The DP2 Merrill, however, offers a 30mm F2.8 lens, which is the equivalent to a 45mm lens on a 35mm camera. Both cameras are compact and lightweight, and feature Sigma’s own “F” Low Dispersion (FLD) glass, which performs like fluorite glass and significantly improves lens performance, as well as Super Multi Layer Coating to reduce flare and ghosting. With the 46-megapixel, full-color Foveon X3 Direct Image Sensor, the new DP cameras capture all primary RGB colors at each pixel location with three layers, which results in incredibly detailed images with a three-dimensional feel.
The Sigma DP Merrill cameras also include the following features:
A dual, three-layer responsive ultimate (TRUE II) engine now incorporates two TRUE II processors toimprove the processing speed and overall quality of the final image. Sigma’s unique image-processing algorithm also provides high-resolution power and reproduces high-definition images with richly graduated tones that offer a three-dimensional feel.
RAW and JPEG format recording retains the full image detail of the utmost quality captured through the direct image sensor, as well as a JPEG recording format for convenience. 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 DP Merrill series keep brightness and color data 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.
Sigma Photo Pro processing software converts RAW data quickly and easily. It incorporates functions such as a loupe, exposure picker, print, JPEG conversion, and batch white balance settings.
Manual focus is available for use when autofocus or focus-lock is not desired.
An advanced user interface is complete with acustom Quick Set (QS) menu and the metallic command dial to improve usability. The diaphragm, shutter speed and menu can be changed quickly using the command dial. The QS menu consists of the most commonly used functions and can be easily displayed by pressing the QS button, allowing photographers to change the menu content and the order depending on preferences.
A large, highly visible three-inch TFT color LCD monitor ensures great visibility even outdoors in the daytime. This approximately 920,000 pixel resolution LCD monitor benefits from a wide viewing angle, making it easy to capture details and check focusing and composition.
A hot shoe allows the use of the dedicated external flashgun EF-140 DG (optional) as well as Sigma electronic flashguns for SD series such as EF-610 DG Super (optional) and EF-610 DG ST (optional).
Movie mode enables movie recording with VGA (640×480) size, with 30 shooting frames per second.
Pricing and availability of the Sigma DP1 Merrill and DP2 Merrill are pending.

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Sigma slashes the price of the SD1 to $3,300, I still doubt someone will buy it

PR admin — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:21:12 +0000

When Sigma announced the $9700 price tag of their 46MP SD1 DSLR camera in 2011, many people didn't get the joke. Well, there was no joke, the SD1 street price was set at $6899. Even their "limited edition" did not help and now Sigma is reducing the price of the SD1 to $3,300 MSRP in the US. This means that you will probably be able to buy it for less than $3k in few days. You can thank Nikon and their 36MP D800 later.

Ronkonkoma, NY, Feb. 8, 2012 – In a personal letter to the company’s loyal customers, Sigma Corporation CEO Kazuto Yamaki today announced that, starting next month, Sigma’s 46-megapixel SD1 DSLR will be renamed the SD1 Merrill in honor Richard “Dick” Merrill, the late co-creator of the Foveon X3 Direct Image Sensor technology. The otherwise unchanged DSLR will also be sold at a lower price that reflects new efficiencies in the camera’s production. The SD1 Merrill will be sold for approximately $3,300 MSRP in the United States.

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Sigma APO 50-150mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM lens to start shipping in Spring

PR admin — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:54:30 +0000

Sigma "confirmed" on Twitter that their APO 50-150mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM lens will be available this Spring. Any believers?

New Sigma cameras to be announced tomorrow

PR admin — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 19:43:50 +0000

Shinzo Fukui (Brand director at Sigma Corp.) posted this on Twitter:

"Announcement of new models will be presented at the CP + scheduled for 4:00 tomorrow afternoon."

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Few Canon EOS-7D and Sigma deals

PR admin — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:34:30 +0000

You will get some extra savings on the Canon EOS-7D if you use coupon code S1234567 (expires 02/15/2012):

Canon EOS-7D for $1299 (regular price: $1,699.00)
Canon EOS-7D with EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens kit for $1469 (regular price: $1,999)
Canon EOS-7D with EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM lens kit for $1579 (regular price:$1,899)

And three more deals on Sigma lenses (no discount code needed):

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Sigma 30mm f/2.8 EX DN and 19mm f/2.8 EX DN lenses for mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras announced at CES

PR admin — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 07:55:18 +0000

In addition to the APO Macro 180mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM lens for DSLR cameras, for CES Sigma also announced the previously rumored 30mm f/2.8 EX DN and the 19mm f/2.8 EX DN lenses for mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras:

Sigma Corporation of America announces prime lenses for mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras at CES 2012

New lenses and product line designed for Micro Four Thirds, E-mount systems

LAS VEGAS, NV, Jan. 9, 2012 – Sigma Corporation of America today announced the launch of its new line of Micro Four Thirds system and E-mount lenses for mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras from the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2012 in Las Vegas, NV.

The leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world’s most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes,hasmade its entrée into the mirrorless interchangeable lens category with the introduction of its Digital Neo (DN) line, which will first include the 30mm F2.8 EX DN and the 19mm F2.8 EX DN lenses in Micro Four Thirds mounts for Olympus and Panasonic, and E-mount for Sony NEX-series cameras. Pricing and availability are pending.

“The launch of our DN series with two fast prime lenses demonstrates our commitment to being a leader in innovation and quality, and providing photographers with excellent choices for lenses in this exciting new camera category," said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “Sigma lenses empower photographers to be more creative with their photography, and we’re absolutely thrilled to be embarking on this new journey with products for mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras for Micro Four Thirds and NEX mount systems."

The Sigma DN line of high-performance lenses is designed exclusively for mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. This lens design and technology ensures high optical performance and compact, lightweight construction. The DN lenses’ superior telecentric optical design also assures sharp- and high-resolution image quality across the entire image plane.

The 30mm F2.8 EX DN and the 19mm F2.8 EX DN lenses are both equipped with Sigma’s Super Multi-Layer Coating to reduce flare and ghosting, while providing sharp and high-contrast images, even at the maximum aperture. The lenses also benefit from a newly developed linear autofocus (AF) motor, which moves the lens unit directly without the need for gears or the drive of other mechanical parts. This system ensures accurate and quiet autofocusing, making both the 30mm F2.8 EX DN and the 19mm F2.8 EX DN suitable for video recording as well as still photos.

The Sigma 30mm F2.8 EX DN has the equivalent angle of view of a 60mm lens (35mm equivalent focal length) on the Micro Four Thirds system and 45mm (35mm equivalent focal length) on the E-mount system. It has a minimum focusing distance of 11.8 inches and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:8.1. The 30mm F2.8 EX DN has two glass mold aspherical lenses, including a double-sided aspherical lens, to provide excellent correction for all types of aberration, as well as an inner focusing system that corrects the fluctuation of aberration to maintain image quality regardless of the focal distance. It also features a rounded, seven-blade diaphragm to deliver a smooth rendering of the out-of-focus areas of the image.

The Sigma 19mm F2.8 EX DN is a wide angle lens with the equivalent angle of view of a 38mm (35mm equivalent focal length) on the Micro Four Thirds system and 28.5mm (35mm equivalent focal length) on the E-mount system. It has a minimum focusing distance of 7.9 inches and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:7.4. Three glass mold aspherical lenses provide excellent correction for distortion, color aberration and field curvature, and an inner focusing system corrects the fluctuation of aberration to maintain image quality regardless of the focal length. The 19mm F2.8 EX DN lens features a rounded, seven-blade diaphragm, which ensures smooth rendering of the out-of-focus areas of the image.

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New: Sigma 19mm f/2.8 and 30mm f/2.8 EX DN lenses for Micro Four Thirds camera

PR admin — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 16:20:37 +0000

Two new Micro Four Thirds lenses from Sigma will be announced tomorrow:

Sigma 19mm f/2.8 EX DN: When used on a Micro Four Thirds format mirrorless camera, Sigma’s new 19mm f/2.8 EX DN has the effective FOV of a 38mm lens on a full-frame DSLR, which should appeal to street photographers and photojournalists. Regardless of your choice of camera, the Sigma 19mm f/2.8 EX DN features eight elements in six groups that include three aspheric lens surfaces to correct optical distortions, color aberration and unwanted field curvature. The new lens also sports an internal focusing system and Super Multi-layer coating to reduce flare and ghosting while maintaining high contrast levels even when set at wider apertures. Other features include a new linear AF motor that eliminates mechanical gears or drives for quicker, near-silent focusing, seven rounded diaphragm blades for an attractive blur in out-of-focus areas, a 46mm filter thread, and a minimum focusing distance of 7.9″ (20cm).

Sigma 30mm f/2.8 EX DN: Extending a mere 1.5″ (38.6mm) from the front of the camera is Sigma’s new 30mm f/2.8 EX DN. This lens has a full-frame equivalent FOV of a 60mm lens when used on a Micro Four Thirds format mirrorless camera. The new Sigma 30mm f/2.8 EX DN features seven elements in five groups including dual aspheric lenses and a double-sided aspheric lens that help control edge sharpness and chromatic aberration. As with Sigma’s new 19mm f/2.8 EX DN lens, the new 30mm f/2.8 EX DN lens includes Sigma’s newly developed linear AF system for smoother and quieter operation, Super Multi-Layer coating for optimized contrast levels and reduced flare, a 46mm filter thread, internal focusing and a minimum focusing distance of 11.8″ (30cm).

Via B&H inDepth, 43rumors

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New Sigma products to be announced on January 10th, 2012

PR admin — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 02:46:21 +0000

Sigma has a banner on their website promising new products being unveiled on January 10th, 2012, which is also the first day of the PMA/CES 2012 show in Las Vegas.

In a recent interview, Sigma Japan mentioned that in their future products they will concentrate on:

Expanding the DP-series line-up of cameras
SD-series cameras with APS-C sensors
Mirrorless camera lenses

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Better translation of the interviews with camera manufacturers about their future products

PR admin — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 17:19:02 +0000

Here is a better translation of the key points from the interviews with several camera manufacturers about their future plans (thanks Erik):

Olympus

Working on a new mirrorless camera that is very “Olympus-like”, but not PEN.
The viewfinder is the key.
E-5 replacement is in the works.

Canon

Does a mirrorless camera really need exchangeable lenses?
Can we make a compact or DSLR that can beat the mirrorless cameras? (they believe they have it)
Higher sensitivity rather than high resolution (probably refers to quality over megapixels)

Sigma

Expanding the DP-series line-up of cameras
SD-series cameras will use APS-C sensors
Mirrorless camera lenses in the works

Sony

Smaller E-mount lenses coming
One hundred mega pixels not a strange thing soon
Everyone will use electronic shutters

Nikon

Replacements for D3 and D700 coming
Specialize on High sensitivity, High resolution and high speed
Compact camera focused on how you use it to fight the smart-phone camera usage

Fujifilm

We will win with high-end cameras like the X100 and X10
Much faster autofocus and entry-level camera is coming
A mirrorless that beats full-frame cameras

Pentax

Once you have tasted high-resolution you can’t go back
100% viewfinders for low-end cameras too
Mirrorless for full-frame and 645

Ricoh

Sensor unit that can use Pentax lenses
GR digital with zoom lens
Compact made for black/white photography

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Recap of the Impress Japan interview with various camera manufacturers

PR admin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 19:51:55 +0000

A Xitek forum member translated he key points from the Impress Japan interviews with various camera manufacturers about their future plans - see previous post about Olympus, Pentax and Nikon (Google translation):

Olympus

Olympus Imaging Marketing Division manager Ogawa Haruo topics: attention to the viewfinder of a single preparation of new micro-, E-5's successor is also made (see also this related article):

is doing with the new Olympus features a single micro-
lies in the form of the viewfinder
E-5's successor models are developed

Canon

Canon Imaging Rong Tian Ya manager: 2012 to launch micro-single, but also a powerful and portable digital SLR camera:

No anti-camera lens you really need to exchange
can be without the anti-camera SLR and compact cameras
The last year of high pixels to a high sensitivity

Sigma

Sigma Corporation President: being developed M43 mount lenses, Foveon in the APS-C format:

DP series lineup will be expanded
SD series of future development in the APS-C format
will launch a micro-single-lens

Sony

Sony's Tian Hong: E research and discussion is a small lens mount, there will be a half-mirror camera (see a detailed translation here):

NEX with a small lens
Even if there is a million pixels is not surprising
to manufacturers of electronic shutter will eventually be commercialized

Nikon

Nikon Imaging Marketing manager: D700's successor as the solution for high-pixel high-strength, D3 successor machine for high-speed sense:

D3, D700's successor
optimized for "high sense of high-power high-speed as the solution."
optimize the use of a portable camera

Fujifilm

Fujifilm electronic image business Higuchi Minister Wu Subject: new single will use micro APS-C sensor, the power level will be exceeded as the solution of the whole site:

the same with the X100 and X10, will take the high road to showdown
AF speed is quite fast, and future plans are low-end models
the level of force as the solution will exceed the full-size

Pentax

Pentax Ricoh Imaging Technology: study of 645 full-size and non-anti-air, the vision of the future rate of SLR models will be 100% (see detailed translation here):

as long as the once high-definition experience will no longer go back
The entry-level field of view would also like to be around 100%
no anti-full-frame camera will take into account and 645

Ricoh

Ricoh's Tomohiro Nagano: boot speed, battery, solid and, as a tool of the GR will be more evolution:

Pentax lens unit can be used
The zoom lens of the GRD
black and white photographs a dedicated compact camera

Does anyone have a better translation?

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What else is new? (Sigma PG-31, BenQ GH700)

PR admin — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 18:31:25 +0000

New power grip PG-31 for Sigma SD1 DSLR:

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the Power Grip PG-31, specially designed for Sigma’s SD1 digital SLR, the camera that ensures high resolution and breathtaking image quality.
The PG-31 is a specially designed battery grip which upgrades the battery power of the SIGMA SD1 by holding two dedicated BP-21 battery packs. This caters for large-volume photography and photography in field. The PG-31 also incorporates a shutter button and therefore becomes a grip for vertical photography when attached to the SD1, providing a more assured grip.

New BenQ GH700 camera: 21x super zoom with BSI CMOS Sensor:

TAIPEI, TAIWAN, October 31, 2011 – Today, BenQ, an internationally renowned provider of digital lifestyle innovations, announces the launch of its first 1080p FullHD bridge-type digital camera – GH700. Possessing a 21x Super Zoom, with BSI CMOS Sensor for superior low-light performance, and numerous features, it is the ultimate choice for photography enthusiasts who want to venture into higher-end models from a point-and-shoot camera.

The designers decided with a luminous golden ring around the lens to symbolize BenQ's relentless passion for photography excellence. The powerful 21x optical zoom lens satisfies the users by effortlessly capturing sharp, steady shots at a brilliant speed from a great distance.

Combine high quality material with the innovative technology, High Performance Optical Zoom Lens, the GH700 is able to produce exceptionally realistic photos. The aspherical lens enhances the focus providing sharp, high-resolution images; while having high-transmission, low-dispersion material with nano-scale anti-reflection coating – users can get shots with dramatically true-to-life colours.

Most digital cameras' biggest challenge is when shooting in a low-light environment. Built with the BSI CMOS-enabled Handheld Night Shot Mode, the GH700 delivers clear pictures even when using a high zoom ratio. The camera will take several exposures automatically and combine them into one single photo – vivid clarity, each and every time.

GH700 records your life's greatest moments at 60 frames per second in 1080p Full HD resolution with zoom, with outstanding surround sound audio to complement the clear video. Furthermore, GH700 has a built-in wind cut function so audio recorded can have minimum unwanted background noise. On GH700, there is also an interdependent recording button that provides a quick access to start recording instantaneously so nothing will be missed; while pressing the shutter button during recording will capture a still shot. Truly an exceptional camera whether the user is an aspiring photographer or videographer.

The GH700 further enhances the users' shooting experience with the 25mm wide-angled lens; a large 3" 460k LCD screen; OIS function; 1cm super-macro function; HDR III Enhancement technology and the continuous shooting mode.

The BenQ GH700 will debut worldwide in November, 2011. For more information, please visit www.BenQ.com

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The new Sigma APO 50-150mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM lens is MIA

PR admin — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 20:45:17 +0000

The Sigma APO 50-150mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM lens was announced back in February, 2011. The lens was initially supposed to start shipping in October, 2011 but then it was further delayed till 2012.

In September the Sigma APO 50-150mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM was still listed on Sigma's website:

Currently the lens is completely removed from Sigma's website:

and it's not even included in the telephoto zoom section:

The older version Sigma 50-150mm f/2.8 EX DC APO HSM II is listed as discontinued:

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Upcoming Sigma and Tamron lenses in 2012

PR admin — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 05:33:33 +0000

According to CanonRumors Sigma will release the following new lenses in 2012L

24mm f/1.8 (full frame)
35mm f/1.8 (full frame)
300mm f/2.8 OS
500mm f/4.5 OS

In addition to the new 18-270mm (or 18-300mm) VC lens, Tamron is expected to announce also a new 70-200 f/2.8 VC lens. Here is a recent patent of a 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 lens filed by Tamron in Japan:

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What else is new? Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 lens for Sony/Pentax, Sony 4k projector, Canon medium format camera

PR admin — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 17:21:13 +0000

Sigma announced a new 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC HSM lens for Sony and Pentax DSLR cameras. The old 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM lens ($669) will be discontinued.

Specification (for Sony mount):

Lens Construction:17 Elements in 13 Groups
Angle of View:79.7-31.7 degrees *Number of blades: 7 pcs (Rounded diaphragm)
Minimum Aperture: f/22
Minimum Focusing Distance: 28cm (11in.)
Maximum Magnification: 1:5.0
Dimensions: Diameter 83.5mm × Length 91.8mm / 3.3in. × 3.6in.
Weigh: 550g (20.3oz.)
Barcode#: Sony: 00-85126-92863-6, Pentax: 00-85126-92862-9
Optional accessories:

Sigma DG UV 77mm : 00-85126-92375-4
Sigma DG WIDE CIRCULAR PL 77mm : 00-85126-92386-0
Lens hood LH825-03 (supplied) : 00-85126-91680-0

Press release:

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the new Sigma 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC HSM for Sony, and for Pentax

This large aperture standard zoom lens is designed for digital SLR cameras and covers a focal length from 17mm wide angle. It is a compact lens with an overall length of just 91.8mm (3.6”). This lens offers a large aperture of f/2.8 throughout the entire zoom range, making it ideal for many types of photography such as portraiture and landscapes. Two FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass elements, which have performance equal to fluorite glass, compensate for color aberration. Two glass mold and one hybrid aspherical lens, provide excellent correction for field curvature and astigmatism. The Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghost. This lens has superior peripheral brightness and provides sharp, high contrast images even at the maximum apertures. High image quality is assured throughout the entire zoom range. Incorporating HSM (Hyper Sonic Motor), the lens provides fast and quiet AF. The lens has a minimum focusing distance of 28cm (11”) throughout the entire zoom range and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:5. The rounded 7 blade diaphragm creates an attractive blur to the out of focus images. The inner focusing system eliminates front lens rotation, making the lens particularly suitable for use with the supplied petal-type lens hood and circular polarizing filters.

Sony 4K home cinema projector coming in January for £18,000:

In a recent interview, the Canon 1Dx developers mentioned medium format camera is not completely out of the picture:

"While we hear the voices, we want to see what the actual sales numbers will be for the 1D X and so determine how many 10,000s of customers we might be losing if we do not introduce a higher resolution camera and if the projected profitability of a higher resolution 24x36 mm format camera will justify development, marketing, and manufacturing investments , or if there is a sustainable market for the even greater costs of development, marketing, and manufacturing medium format cameras and lenses - an area where we have no internal expertise."

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Sigma 50-150 f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM lens delayed

PR admin — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 03:10:46 +0000

It seems that the Sigma 50-150 f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM lens is delayed again. The lens was initially supposed to be announced in October, but according to an email from Sigma UK to a reader, the lens will not be released till 2012:

"The latest we have from Japan is that they will not be available until next year and Japan have not given us any dates. We apologize for the delay."

The Sigma 50-150 f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM lens was announced in February 2011. The price is still unknown.

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When everything else fails, release a limited edition camera

PR admin — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 20:21:31 +0000

If you were not sure weather to buy the Sigma SD1 for $7,000, maybe this limited edition will change your mind. Only 10 pieces will be produced for 9,999 EUR each (available only in Germany):

Via Fotoactualidad

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Sigma APO 50-150mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM lens to start shipping next month

PR admin — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 00:24:06 +0000

According to an email from Sigma customer service to a reader, the APO 50-150mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM lens that was announced back in February will start shipping next month (October, 2011). No MSRP was given.

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Patents update (Canon, Sigma and Panasonic)

PR admin — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 02:00:20 +0000

Canon patent for lens with aperture ring:

Canon 100-400mm f/4-5.6 lens patent:

Sigma 75-300mm f/4.8-6.7 lens patent for Micro Four Thirds:

Panasonic patent for artificially creating a bokeh:

Pentax patent for in-lens image stabilization.

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Sigma SD1 can do LiveView, full frame Foveon sensor in development?

PR admin — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 09:07:19 +0000

At a recent event in Japan, Sigma representatives confirmed that the latest SD1 camera can do LiveView without a physical change to the camera:

"We can add the feature, however the hard part is to ensure that the camera operate in a stable manner with that addition. However, this is a high priority for us and we plan to take this on as soon as we finish working through some of the issues that we have pending right now. When and if we actually make this happen is up in the air at this point."

Sigma also confirmed that they are working on a new sensor without providing further details. There were some rumors in the past that Sigma is working on a full-frame version of the SD1 sensor. The SD1 DSLR camera doesn't not have video recording capabilities, but they may consider it in future models.

Maros-notebook via dpreview

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Sigma lenses have a new finish

PR admin — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 08:39:02 +0000

I received this report from reader (thanks M.) regarding a new surface finish on all new Sigma lenses:

After having introduced new lenses in 2010, Sigma also uses a new surface for their lenses. To date Sigma was known for their velvet and furry surface, but looking at the 85mm 1.4 and 70-200mm 2.8 OS for example you can see the new matte and smooth finish. After having dealt with this topic for a while I found some reports from people who recently bought some Sigma lenses new that where introduced several years ago - for example the 30mm 1.4, the 50mm 1.4 and the 10-20mm 4.0-5.6 - that also have the new matte and smooth finish. In some photo and electronic shops in Germany you can take a look at different versions of the Sigma 30mm 1.4 standing side by side inside the showcase. One with the old velvet and furry surface, one with the new matte and smooth finish. It seems that Sigma is changing their complete production regarding the finish.

I contacted Sigma regarding the new finish of their lenses that seems to be transferred to their older lenses as well. They are really changing their production regarding the surface. Here is their original answer in German:

"Guten Tag,
Die Geräte aus unserer aktuellen Produktpalette sollen nach und nach mit diesem neuen Oberflächenfinish ausgeliefert werden. Wann welches Gerät allerdings ausgeliefert wird können wir vorab nicht sagen."

In English:

"Hello,
All the devices from our current product lineup will be shipped step by step with this new surface finish. But we cannot say in advance when which device will be send."

After a quick Google search, it seems that several websites have already reported this new finish on Sigma lenses.

Posted by PhotoRumors.com
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