Balko Photo

Sigma macro flash for Pentax, Sigma DSLRs

Sigma today introduced the EM-140, a dual flash tube-based macro flash unit designed for use in Pentax and Sigma SLR cameras. Featuring guide number of 14 at ISO 100, the unit can be operated wirelessly and can work as a master unit for the EF-530 DG Super.

Multifunctional Macro Flash designed to work with new Digital SLR cameras

Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the new EM-140 DG Macro Flash for Sony and Pentax SLR cameras.

The EM-140 DG Macro Flash is designed to work with both AF 35mm film and digital SLR cameras. It is ideal for photographing subjects in fine detail when the shadowless mode is used and is extremely effective for scientific and medical applications.

Dual flash tubes can fire simultaneously or separately. Using only one flashtube creates shadow, which can give a three-dimensional feeling to the subject. The flash features a guide number of 14 w/ISO 100. The modelling flash function makes it possible to check for reflections and shadows before actually taking the flash picture.

A wireless flash function is also available, when the EM-140 DG is used as master and the EF-530 DG SUPER as a slave unit for creating fine shadow details. High Speed Synchro and Exposure compensation functions are also available for advanced flash photography.

Specifications

Power Source: AA Alkaline Battery or AA NiCd Battery or AA Ni-Mh Battery x 4pcs
Angle of Coverage: Vertical / Horizontal 80 degrees
Weight: 430g (without batteries)
Dimensions (Controller): 76.7mmx136.2mmx82.4mm / 3.0in x 5.4in x 3.3in
Dimensions (Flash Unit): 126.6mmx128.8mmx30.5mm / 5.0in x 5.1in x 1.2in

Sigma has announced the release of the DP2. The DP2 brings a f/2.8 41mm lens to the playground, one stop faster than the f/4 28mm lens found on the DP1. In addition the DP2 will feature True II processing which will also be featured on the newly announced SD15 DSLR camera. True II aims to further improve the speed and performance of the DP2, both issues of course are frequently noted in the negative by reviewers of the DP1. The DP2 keeps the same exterior and the same (and well recieved) 20.7mmx13.8mm Foveon X3 image sensor.

Press Release

Sigma announces the development of a 14 megapixel high definition digital camera, packing the full spec of a DSLR into the body of a compact camera.

SIGMA DP2

The Sigma Corporation (COO: Kazuto Yamaki) is pleased to announce the new Sigma DP2 compact digital camera featuring a 14 megapixel FOVEON X3 direct image sensor (2,652 × 1,768 × 3 layers) as used in the Sigma SD14 digital SLR.

Sigma introduced the DP1 with a direct image sensor as used in the Sigma SD14 digital SLR to the market in March 2008 as a “unique, groundbreaking, compact digital camera with all the power of a digital SLR”. The multi award winning DP1 has established strong support from a wide range of photographers both amateur and professional. Building on this success, the DP2 is equipped with a 24.2mm F2.8 lens, equivalent to 41mm on a 35mm SLR camera, for increasing creative possibilities and superior image quality, improving handling and performance.

DP2 Main Features

SLR-sized image sensor
The size of the image sensor used in the DP2 camera is 20.7mm x 13.8mm. It is approximately seven to twelve times larger than the 1/1.8inch to 1/2.5inch 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 DP2 its high resolution and richly-graduated tones.

Full-color image sensor
The DP2 uses the same 14 megapixel (2,652×1,768×3 layers) direct image sensor as the SD14 and DP1. 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. Since the moiré is not generated, use of a low-pass filter is not needed because full information of light and color can be captured with three-dimensional feeling.

“TRUE II” image processing engine
The DP2 incorporates “TRUE II” which is an improved version of “TRUE” (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine), the world’s first image processing engine suited for the three silicon embedded layer direct image sensor. The unique image-processing algorithm, which has been developed throughout the development of the SD series digital SLR cameras and DP1, is incorporated into “TRUE II”.

24.2mm F2.8 lens designed exclusively for the DP2
The DP2 is equipped with a 24.2mm F2.8 lens, equivalent to 41mm on a 35mm SLR camera, which has been designed exclusively for DP2. Two molded glass aspherical lenses provide superior image quality. The Super Multi Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting. This lens and SLR-sized image sensor combination provides natural shallow depth-of-field and attractive bokeh effect.

RAW format recording
The DP2 includes a RAW recording mode for retaining full image capture detail of the utmost quality plus a JPEG recording format for convenience. The RAW data format uses lossless compression for more compact, yet uncompromised, data files. The RAW data format of the DP2 keeps brightness and color data in a 1:1 ratio without relying on interpolation. Each pixel location captures the full color of RGB data which, when processed in Sigma Photo Pro, will preserve the balance of the natural data for the best photos with the best image quality.

Exclusive Sigma Photo Pro Software
The DP2 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 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. The photographer can make changes easily and quickly by simply adjusting the slider controls within the software.

Compact and lightweight body
The DP2 has compact dimensions of 113.3mm/4.5in (W) x 59.5mm/2.3in (H) x 54.6mm/2.1in (D). Its compact body and lightweight design makes it easy to carry everywhere.

Metering modes and four exposure modes
The DP2 has three metering modes, Evaluative Metering, Center Weighted Average Metering and Spot Metering. It is also possible to select the exposure mode from Program AE, Shutter Priority AE, Aperture 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 DP2 is equipped with a pop up (manual) built-in flash. It is possible to use Normal Flash, Red-Eye Reduction Flash and Slow Synchro Mode. It also features flash exposure compensation in 1/3 stops increments.

Manual Focus
Manual Focus is available for use when autofocus or focus lock is not effective. It is also possible to magnify the display to ensure precise focusing.

Large 2.5” TFT Color LCD Monitor
The DP2 camera features large 2.5 inch TFT color LCD monitor. The LCD monitor displays 100% of the images, allowing the photographer to easily and accurately confirm the image compensation.

Hot Shoe
The DP2 camera is equipped with a hot shoe, allowing use of the dedicated external flashgun EF-140 DG (optional) as well as Sigma electronic flashguns for SD series such as EF-500 DG and EF-530 DG. This hot shoe is also used to attach high performance view finder VF-21 (optional).
*EF-500 DG and EF-530 DG flashgun series can be used in manual mode only.

Dedicated lens hood (HA-21)
It is possible to attach the dedicated lens hood to block out extraneous light. It also functions as an adapter, designed to accept the 46mm Close-up Lens and 46mm filters.
*A hood adapter HA-21 is sold separately.

Specifications

General
Camera: TypeMid-Sized
Manufacturer: Sigma
Model Number: DP2
Dimensions: 4.5 x 2.3 x 2.1″
113.3 x 59.5 x 54.6mm
Image Capture
Sensor Type::0.98 Foveon X3 CMOS
4.80 megapixels (total)
4.64 megapixels (effective)
Filter Type: Full Color
Aspect Ratio: 3:2, 16:9
Image Dimensions: 2640 x 1760 (4.6 megapixels)
2640 x 1485 (3.9 megapixels)
1872 x 1248 (2.3 megapixels)
1312 x 880 (1.2 megapixels)
Image Quality: 4 levels
Image Preview / Review
LCD: 2.5″, 230,000 pixels
Lens
Lens Type: Sigma Lens (7 Elements in 6 Groups)
Image Stabilization: No
Focal Length: 24.2mm (actual)
41mm (35mm equivalent)
Aperture Range: f/2.8 - ?
Focusing System: Contrast detection
Manual Focus: possible (0) steps
Exposure
ISO Sensitivity:TBA
Shutter Speed: 15 - 1/2000 second
Exposure Modes: Aperture, Shutter, Manual
Metering Modes: Evaluative, center-weighted average, spot
Exposure Compensation: +/- 3.0EV in 1/3EV increments
White Balance: Image Sensor - Auto, Sunlight, Shade, Overcast, Incandescent, Fluorescent, Flash, Custom, Manual
Creative
Digital Zoom: 3.0x
Self Timer: Yes, 2 or 10 seconds
Movie Format: AVI with audio
Storage
Recording Medium: SD/MMC
File System: Complies with Design Rule for Camera File System (DCF)
File Format: CCD-RAW, 12-bit RAW (.X3F), JPEG (EXIF 2.21)
Connectivity
Video: Yes, NTSC / PAL switchable
Computer: USB 2.0 High Speed
Other: Audio out (mono)
Power
Battery Type: Lithium-ion rechargeable
Battery Form Factor: Proprietary BP-31
Product Bundle
Software: SIGMA Photo Pro
Battery / Charger: 1 x Proprietary BP-31 Lithium-ion rechargeable battery and charger
Flash Memory: 0.0MB
Other
Digital Print Order Format (DPOF) compliant: Yes
Internal Microphone: Yes
Internal Speaker: Yes
Tripod Mount: Yes, Metal
Remote Control: No

Sigma 4.5mm f/2.8 EX DC HSM Circular Fisheye Auto Focus Lens

	The first 180 degree circular fisheye lens designed specifically for APS-C size digital SLR cameras
	Fast F2.8 maximum aperture making it ideal for low light photography
	Minimum focusing distance of 13.5cm and a maximum magnification of 1:6
	SLD glass minimizes color aberration
	Equipped with HSM with full-time manual focus override
	Equisolid angle projection method is possible for art and scientific use

The Sigma 4.5mm F2.8 EX DC HSM, 180 degree circular fisheye lens is now available. When used in conjunction with digital SLRs with APS-C size image sensors, it produces a circular image within the frame. HSM ensures fast and quiet autofocusing and includes full-time manual focus. The minimum focusing distance of 13.5cm and maximum magnification of 1:6 also makes it particularly useful for close-up photography.

Sigma 4.5mm f/2.8 EX DC HSM Circular Fisheye for NIKON at Adorama

Sigma 4.5mm f/2.8 EX DC HSM Circular Fisheye for SIGMA at Adorama

Sigma 4.5mm f/2.8 EX DC HSM Circular Fisheye Auto Focus Lens for CANON EOS

Sigma’s new SD15, a 14 megapixel (2,652×1,768×3 layers) Digital SLR camera.

September, 2008 Press release: The Sigma Corporation (COO: Kazuto Yamaki) is pleased to announce the new SIGMA SD15 digital SLR camera. This camera is the latest model in Sigma’s digital SLR camera SD series, powered by the 14 megapixel Foveon X3 direct-image-sensor it can capture all primary RGB colors at each and every pixel location arranged in three layers.

The developing SD15 incorporates the “TRUE II” new image processing engine. It provides high resolution power and reproduces high definition images rich in gradation and impressive three-dimensional detail. Incorporation of the large 3.0 inch LCD monitor and improved processing speed provide ease of operation of the camera.

Development of the SD15
Since October 2002, Sigma has introduced three digital SLR cameras, the SD9, SD10 and SD14 to the market. In March 2008 Sigma also introduced a high-end compact digital camera, the DP1 which uses the same large image sensor as is featured in Sigma’s digital SLR cameras.

They have established a strong following from a wide range of photographers, both amateur and professional. Photographers expressed a desire to incorporate the image processing engine “TRUE”, which is used in the DP1, into a digital SLR camera.

In order to meet this demand, the SD15, with high resolution direct image sensor, has been designed around the new “TRUE II” image processing engine. This combination delivers superior image quality as well as improved processing speed, operation and performance.

Holy Cow! A 4.5mm fisheye from Sigma!

* The first 180 degree circular fisheye lens designed specifically for APS-C size digital SLR cameras
* Fast F2.8 maximum aperture making it ideal for low light photography
* Minimum focusing distance of 13.5cm and a maximum magnification of 1:6
* SLD glass minimizes color aberration
* Equipped with HSM with full-time manual focus override
* Equisolid angle projection method is possible for art and scientific use

Press Release

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new 4.5mm F2.8 EX DC CIRCULAR
FISHEYE HSM lens.

This autofocus circular fisheye lens has an angle of view of 180 degrees in all directions. It is exclusively
designed for digital SLR cameras with the APS-C size image sensor. When used in conjunction with digital
SLRs with APS-C size image sensors, it produces circular image within the frame.

The F2.8 large aperture value produces a bright image in the viewfinder and allows photographers to take pictures in low light conditions, making it an ideal lens for Astrophotography and Aurora photography. Due to the quantifiable angle/area relationship it produces, this lens can be used for scientific and arts applications such as solid angle measurements of cloud distribution over the sky or vegetation distribution of the forest.

The minimum focusing distance of 13.5cm/5.3inch and maximum magnification of 1:6 make it particularly
useful for close-up photography. SLD ?Special Low Dispersion? glass provides effective compensation of
chromatic aberration. Sigma’s Super Multi-Layer Coating minimizes flare and ghosting. It is equipped with
an inner focusing system that creates high definition and good image quality over the whole frame. The HSM ?Hyper Sonic Motor? ensures fast and quiet autofocusing and allows full-time manual focus override by rotation of the focus ring.

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At slightly over one pound, the build quality of the Sigma is actually good. The two inner lens tubes extend smoothly. The rubberized zoom ring operates well as does the focus ring. The front element does not rotate so using a polarizer is not a problem.

The Sigma uses a conventional AF micro-motor which works quite fast and the OS (Optical Stabilizer) works as advertised; it can give you an extra potential equivalent to about 3 f-stops. There’s only a single mode OS-switch (on/off) but the lens is able to detect panning which is different compared to Canon’s IS implementation.

Typical for extreme range zooms the Sigma exhibits a fairly heavy amount of barrel distortions at 18mm (~3.2%), but on the wide end, the problem is actually very well controlled with only slight to moderate pincushion distortions.

Bottom line is that this lens operates best stopped down and is not a low-light lens. But for $500 it shines in bright light, and as such, is a good buy. If looking for gorgeous bokeh and/or low-light performance, go for a 2.8. Otherwise…

BUY now at Adorama  // SHOP B&H Video

Note: I have this lens and cannot say enough good things about it. Not only is it compact and light weight, but it produces fantastic images!

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Lens Construction — 20 Elements in 14 Groups
Angle of View — 30.3 - 6.2 degrees
Number of Diaphragm Blades — 9 Blades
Minimum Aperture — F32
Minimum Focusing Distance — 180cm / 70.9 in.
Maximum Magnification — 1:5
Filter Size Diameter — 77mm
Dimensions Diameter — 95mm / 3.7 in. X Length 192mm / 7.6 in.
Weight — 1750g / 61.9 oz (3.875 pounds)

Comes With:

• Front & Rear Lens Caps
• Lens Hood [LH840-01]
• Soft Case with Strap
• Tripod Collar
• 1-Year Manufacturer Warranty

This lens is a direct competitor to the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 USM L IS and the Nikon AF 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6 ED VR, though a biut less expensive in price. Available only in Canon and Nikon mounts, it is a full frame lens perfectly usable on both film as well as digital SLRs, but can deliver amazing FOVs on a cropped body ( 350D - equivalent to 128-640mm ).

The build quality of this lens is very good and the zoom ring gives slightly better control than Canon’s push-pull design. Since it does extend quite a bit, there is still the issue of the lens sucking in air and the consequences of that - dust, the main complaint on Canon’s 100-400L

The AF motor is noisy and slow as opposed to the Canon EF 100-400L USM IS. There is a ring lock at 80mm. It is also compatible with both Sigma AF EX converters (losing AF ability), but considering the slow maximum aperture, it may not be such a good idea!

There is very little vignetting on APS-C type DSLRs. Distortions are very well controlled with this lens, and the lens exhibited a very decent resolution performance in the lab.

At 80mm the quality is already very good at wide-open aperture increasing to excellent results at medium aperture settings. There’s a gradual decrease in performance towards the long end of the zoom range but the performance penalty isn’t overly pronounced. At 400mm the lens is still capable to deliver a good to very good resolution at f/5.6.

Overall, it gets a “fair to middlin” verdict from Photozone.

Lens Construction

11 Elements in 6 Groups
Angle of View 180 degrees
Number of Diaphragm Blades 6 Blades
Minimum Aperture F22
Minimum Focusing Distance 13.5cm/5.3 in.
Maximum Magnification - 1:4.6
Filter Size Rear (Gelatin filter)
Dimensions Diameter - 73.5mm X Length 68.6mm
2.9 in. X 2.7 in.
Weight 400g/14.0 oz
Corresponding AF Mounts: SIGMA, CANON,
NIKON, SONY, PENTAX

BUY at Adorama 

This circular fisheye lens produces circular images with an angle of view of 180° when attached to a full-frame digital SLR or 35mm film SLR camera. It has a fast maximum aperture of F3.5 and a minimum focusing distance of 13.5cm (5.3″). Sigma’s super multi-layer coating and Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass provide excellent image quality for digital and film SLR cameras. The special fisheye design allows maximum creative expression.

Note: Full circle can only be captured with full frame 35mm format digital SLR and film SLR cameras.

Auto-focus system -This circular fisheye lens produces circular images with an angle of view of 180°and also incorporates an auto focus system to achieve accurate focusing that might be difficult through the camera`s viewfinder due to the extremely large depth of field.

3.5 maximum aperture - This lens is perfectly suited for low light conditions indoors or at dusk.

Close-up Photography - This circular fisheye lens has a minimum focusing distance of 13.5cm (5.3″) and a maximum magnification of 1:4.6 making it particularly useful for close-up photography.

xcellent optical performance - Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass offer effective compensation of color aberration.

Reduction of flare and ghosting - Sigma’s super multi-layer lens coating reduces flare and ghosting, a common problem with digital cameras and also creates an optimum color balance.

An updated version of Sigma’s 8mm f/4 spherical fisheye, this is the field’s widest circular fisheye with autofocus. It’s also among the last Sigma film-era lenses to be upgraded with coatings that suppress reflections from digital sensors (”DG”). It captures a 180-degree field of view, with exaggerated perspective and dramatic linear distortion, especially along the frame edges. For full-circle images, you need a full-frame film or digital SLR; APS-scaled sensors crop into the top and bottom of the frame when the camera is oriented horizontally. [Pop Photo]