Ihave both the dp0 and the dp1, the latter was the kit with the viewfinder, which makes using the camera much easier. They are both challenging cameras: the results can be phenomenal. Worth mentioning is that they do a native 21:9 format and the B&W rendition is simply superb, the nicest I have ever seen. I've been using them both primarily in the 21:9 format as that is the perfect format to make a scene look like it is a still from a movie. There is a menu choice that generates files that include, basically, HDR, which alleviates the limited dynamic range, but at the cost of 300mb+ files that can only be worked on in the Sigma software. I shoot almost only B&W jpg with these cameras...
Yeah I am thinking nope to the 300Mb files. It is just a simple shot of a building, why does it have to be so complicated? Any camera can make it work! So come on Sigma, am sure they can do better.
@@robinwong It is a camera to accompany medium format film cameras in your bag - not to be compared with the Sony-Fuji led modern cameras. Only with that mindset can you learn to work around the limitations. Fitting a neutral density filter (or at least a UV filter) is a must. Learning to initially work with RAW is a must ( I can now get comparable jpgs sooc). With a bit more effort it CAN become your sole camera to be used in (almost) all situations. I primarily use my DP0 as a panoramic camera (via the 21:9 aspect ratio). One that can easily switch between a colour and B&W film "roll". It is important to make these distinctions... too many incorrect interpretations end up spoiling the image of the brand - but we like this because it keeps prices down. 😃
I actually like the slowness of this type of camera. I have been using the DP0 Quattro for a few years now, and I have to say it is one of the most enjoyable cameras for me to use. I mainly use it for landscape and some street photography, and the colours and detail are some of the best I have experienced in any of the cameras I have owned.
I have the dp2m and recently discovered a very simple workflow using sigma photo pro and exporting as 8 bit tiff, and then simply take off the hard edges and tweaking the colours in dxo filmpack
I had a DP2 and DP1 back in the day. They were unbelievably good when on form, but it was quite hard getting consistently good colour balance from them, and in terms of useability, they were very hard to love.
In digital, I only buy cameras which have something really unique and special. And there are not many of those. Sigma's Foveon cameras are definitely one of these rare birds - and the most unique of those, as I think, is the DP0 Quattro, with a 21mm (35mm equivalent) lens. Shooting with that camera is really something else. Usually I only use analog cameras. Therefore, the limited ISO range and slow processing of the Sigma cameras is of no concern to me, it actually makes taking pictures with the Sigmas similar to taking pictures with an analog camera. Last year, I finally ditched my Olympus Pen F and the Sigmas (I have four of them, a DP1 Merrill, DP3 Merrill, DP0 Quattro and SD Quattro) are now the only digital cameras I use (besides my Smartphone, of course).
If you can survive with the slowness, of course the Sigma is more than sufficient. I shoot fast paced moving subjects, so yeah you can see my pain. Also, that non-existent dynamic range, I just can't!
I have 7 Sigma cameras, digital Leica and Hasselblad, but I will never ditch my Olympus Pen F…in fact I have 3. There is a place for that special little gem. If anything, it gives me contrast to the slower cameras. The Olympus cameras are my reliable sure fire cameras, and the others are for slow art. The two types give me variety and help me appreciate the others.
Definitiv nicht für Porträt geeignet weil viel zu scharf darstellt, man sollte die Schärfe unbedingt runterregeln. Ich besitze einige Sigmas DP, Merrills keine fp-L ! Sie machen viel Mühe und es dauert alles sehr viel länger , es lohnt sich aber. Wollte mir noch eine DP0 kaufen aber es gibt kaum welche .
I have both the DP1 and DP3 . Absolutely love these cameras. I shoot mainly B&W and find the B&W straight out of camera jpegs are fantastic. No need for raw in most situations although i shoot in both just incase. Its been said before many times, this is basically a digital FLIM camera and if you think of it that way you will come to terms with its short comings. I use this camera with the intention of going out to do photography. Its definitely not a point and shoot or snap shot camera for kids birthday party's. Take a tripod, stick to 100 iso unless your shooting BW then 400 is quite acceptable, take your time and you'll be rewarded without having to lug around a medium format camera. Just my two cents worth :)
The Foveon sensor is wonderful. I own the Sigma DP2s and the DP1 Merrill. The colors on a sunny day are spectacular - especially the blues are second to none. I believe it holds true for all the current Foveon sensor cameras, that they are noise monsters, if you use an ISO above 200, and it's better at 100, than 200. Yes, you have to make sure you don't overexpose, but even the slow processing - and the proprietary RAW files, that are best processed with Sigmas own (free) software is worth it in my opinion. That's how great good photos out of this system are.
With the right use case, within the camera's limitations, the images are second to none, especially when it comes to sharpness and contrast. However, the issues are real, and they get in the way of me shooting, so that is indeed too bad. I hope Sigma does not give up, and continue to develop modern Foveon cameras
I had this camera. This camera produces amazing color once in awhile. It had dust on the sensor and took it to a service center for cleaning in the US. They told me that only Sigma Japan can fix it since there are no tools to open this bad boy to service it. I sold it the next day.
Foveon seems to be good idea for landscapes, studio shots and some other stuff with base ISO as you mentioned, then it shows very good results. But it is not for general use. Maybe something like black&white sensor cameras, that are also fine for one specific type of shooting, but cannot cover everything like any standard DSLR/ILC.
I have heard of this camera else where and had a chance to buy one. But the review I read discouraged me from getting it. Your experience confirm much of the problems I had previously read. Thank you for a look at this unique piece of photography history..
The technical issues if poor dynamic range and poor high iso performance are related. Besides that, Foveons have a high dark current signal since their complicated silicon structure. You can get no clean black from that sensor. What Sigma does for that is brutal "exposure to the right". Besides that, it are still impressive photographs. :)
Nice review of a very niche but very capable little camera (in the right conditions, that is), owned a DP0 myself (now sold to buy a SD4H, to have lens flexibility). Always loved the microdetails that all Foveon’s incarnations managed to pull out and the Quattros have the best color rendition of them all for my tastes. Highlight dynamic range is a real issue if you don’t use SFD mode, the only way to shoot this camera in high contrast scenes is to really ETTR to the death and then try to pull up the shadows, where most of the DR of this camera sits (contrary to the Merrills). B&W rendering is another killing “feature” of those cameras and you can get away with 800 ISO with that.
I have the entire series collection of the dp (0,1,2,3) Quattro's and I will admit, the colors and details that each one captures are amazing for a Point and Shoot / DSLR? hybrid. The only catch is, you need the most proper lighting (preferably natural lighting - mid to late afternoon is the best) for the most proper capture output with least amount of post edit needed.
For me to buy a new Foveon camera the two "drop dead" requirements would be IBIS and a fixed EVF, because I'd want it to work as a travel camera. I'd be OK with APS-C or APS-H, a selection of fixed lens versions, no video, and a larger body than the DPs. I'd hope for improved DR and processing speed, a bump in high ISO performance and a new version of the Merrills' 15/15/15 sensor. If Sigma ever brings out new Foveons, I'd expect them to offer one or more interchangable lens L-mount bodies. Given the resolving power of the Foveon, I don't think going full frame is necessary.
ah a review close to my heart. I owned the previous version briefly and ask my self to his day why i ever sold it.. aside from the obvious reason of using it only rarely. The sensor technology is really fascinating.
I love my DP2Q. I'll tell you this: with the exception of monochrome mode, if the camera isn't on a tripod, you're not using it properly. The lens and sensor are perfectly calibrated to each other so ANY motion blows the effect. Check this out, dude: I took some sunset photos in Hawaii and when I viewed them on a monitor later, I saw something in the waves, way back in the image, near the horizon. When I zoomed in I saw it was someone paddling a canoe. It looked like something out of an 8 bit computer game -- a perfect, sharply defined pixelated figure. That means the optics are actually able to resolve to the pixel level! I've yet to see another camera that can do that.
At fast enough shutter speeds (under bright sun), say 1/1000 or faster, I doubt a tripod will make any difference. But at slower speeds, yes, I agree with you.
@@robinwongI can't explain it, maybe it has something to do with the three layers of the sensor. But try it and you'll see. Kicks the quality up a whole grade. I even use the 2 second timer all the time.
Notwithstanding its weaknesses, this camera's design has a futuristic vibe that looks fun to use -if the price is right I may consider getting one myself.
I owned the DP2 Quattro and the SD quattro and really enjoyed my time with them, mostly because I thought of them almost like film cameras. Shooting very slow abnd methodical to make sure I would get the best exposure and also keep the camera steady. When you got a great shot, it was mind blowing.Unfortunately the negatives you mentioned eventually outweighed the good, but I really hope Sigma delivers on the potential of the Foveon technology with their upcoming full frame foeveon sensor.
Hi @Robin Wong! I was invited by Sigma to test and review this camera before it was released. I had the same experience. Poor dynamic range. Poor ISO response above base ISO. The RGB sensor concept is amazing on paper. It's very difficult to make one responsive at higher ISO in practice. Perhaps one day technology and software will improve to the point where this is a viable solution.
You always come up with interesting cameras to try. The sharpness surprised me enough to pause and rewind a couple times. It looks like it would be fun to use for landscapes after hearing your thoughts.
I know you are mostly a dedicated Micro Four Thirds shooter, but also see that you like to try different cameras. I suggest you look at the Canon 77D with the EF-S 24mm pancake lens combination for street shooting. This is a small and light body with a deep grip, comfortable all day. You've got an APS-C sensor, a full information viewfinder, and a flip-out touch sensor screen. The 24mm pancake is about 38mm equivalent. The camera has the image quality of the much larger EOS 80D in a much smaller package. You've got the full vast Canon EF lens inventory for compatible lenses. What more could one want? Sorry to be a bit off topic here, but I don't see a place for general comments. Keep up the good work!
I love your videos man. Keep that up. I purchased this camera. I love it. It's my slow camera with no kids around. No video can explain what it feels like to see the pictures it takes
Thanks Robin. I tried a DP-2 when they first came out and noticed I had to expose for highlights, which was not a deal-breaker for me as used to shoot mostly ASA 25 and 64 color slide film. As I recall, I was often able to recover detail from under-exposed areas an still get lovely images. My take-away was that it was a one-trick pony but it did that trick well enough I'd likely use it a lot.
Looks like this is a very narrow niche camera. The ISO limitations, it isn't pocket friendly, and the "10 seconds" may result in missing too many optimal shots. Appreciate the tutorial!
I have tried to fall in love with Sigma‘s DP 1 Merrill, DP 2 Merrill and later with the DP 0 Quattro. The images can be stunning for sure. However, at the end of the day they were always too quirky for me. And I generally like quirky things. Dynamic range, high ISO performance, battery life, speed, … the list goes on and on. But from time to time I have a look at some of the photos I managed to take with them and then I really do miss them. But still, for me Sigma cameras have always been too much compromise. Sadly.
I have the SD1 Merrill, which also has a FOVEON sensor, albeit a lower resolution one. I like the different rendering I get from a FOVEON sensor, though the SD1 Merrill doesn't have an IR filter as part of the sensor array but rather a separate detachable one, which is interesting to say the least. I still haven't tried it for B&W photography with the IR filter removed, which is something I'm looking into sometime in the future.
Always an interesting concept that was somehow abandoned. I see it like a Film camera experience where you go out with a single Roll of 100 ASA and try to make it work, but I agree it could do much better with modern technology.
I had one of the oldest Foveon cameras the Sigma SD9. It's sad that the only thing Sigma seemed to improve over the years was the resolution. Everything that was bad about my camera seems to also apply to the latest ones they made. I do like the colors, but the cameras are painfully slow with zero high iso capability. My old SD9 camera at 400 iso, looked the same as my Nikon D500 at 52,000 iso!
Hi Robin, wow that sensor is amazing I never knew it existed, glad I hadn't upgraded yet. "10 seconds unforgivable" 😅 I laughed so hard hopefully the model I want is faster
I think to maximise the DR you need to be very careful not to clip the highlights during exposure. The shadows can be recovered very effectively in the Sigma Photo Pro s/w, but not the highlights. As you say, it would be great to see a modern version of the Sigma DP cameras but I think Sigma have taken an alternative path now....... a shame as the photographic world is missing out (in my opinion [as a Foveon addict!]).
I was not even "maximizing" dynamic range. It was a simple and straightforward scene, with some bright spots, which no camera from 10-15 years ago had any issues handling. I can't imagine using the Sigma in truly challenging, harsh lighting environment.
@@robinwong I agree, Sigma cameras are a challenge! A couple of years ago I was looking for a Sigma DSLR and was amazed to find someone selling two SD14 camera bodies they had been using as a professional wedding photographer!!
I highly suggest using spot metering or using the histogram. The Dp metering can be easily tricked causing blown out highlights. . I also suggest adding Fill light in Sigma photo pro. This reduces highlight blowouts and increases shadow details. Great review on a unique camera that forces you to slow down. @@robinwong
I can understand that you mention the shortcomings, cause they are here. But let's agree to disagree, I shot the bigger Brother Sigma SD Quattro H til 2018, in the morning and the evening. There are a few things who are frustrating and to consider. As you mentioned... - it's not an Action Cam, everything over ISO 400 is unusable, but if you use the Wonderful Black and White Mode you can shoot at night up to ISO 800. The use of Sigma Photo Pro is a must. If you want to get most out of the Sigma Raw Files, make Use of Sigma Photo Pro. The Usability of it seems to be some kind of awkward but it does a great Job in getting the best out of the Raw Files. - I shot with this Camera in Monument Valley before and after Sun Rise the Results were quite pleasing, but I have to admit that I had to work on the Raw Files in Sigma Photo Pro. - Also I shot in Munich at night... in the Black and White Mode which keeps up quite well and the Black and White Pictures look fantastic. Also I tried to transfer the Black an White Raw Files with Sigma Photo Pro to Sigma Natural Colors and interestingly there was nearly no noise. The Sigma Foveon Cameras are very special, you have to take your time, there are a lot of Shortcomings as you mentioned. This is not a Camera who is competing with any another brand… or competitive as a „Jack of all Trades“, i don’t know any camera besides film, who has so many limits. But if you respect he limits and use the camera for what it was constructed, it will give you a great reward. The Camera is a joy to use in Manual Mode. For the Quattro I can say.. The Quattro is a real workhorse, in 2019 the Quattro literally saved my ass when we were four weeks in Arizona and California for Vacation.. The Camera worked flawlessly in the Desert of Arizona when my Nikon Gear stopped working in Monument Valley, and the mount on the Nikon broke in Monterey. we only had the Sigma left, but The Results we achieved with this Camera were extraordinary as a landscape Camera it’s a pure Joy to use. The System worked also in Winter and in Rain.. there was til now no real problem. never made use of a camera who brought me so much Joy to create Landscape Pictures. Nevertheless the Product has it’s limits. The Sigma Foveon Sensor is only usable between 100-400 ISO.
I don't care how impressive the sensor is, there's nothing aesthetically or design wise about that camera that would inspire me. Just my own personal opinion of course
Actually I was thinking like that as well, then when I started to use one, I was amazed on how ergonomic and not uncomfortable was to use and hold it :)
I've been interested in this camera for a while. I've read that some of them have changed hands for less than 200 euros on the second-hand market, but when I started to look for one two years ago, 450 euros would have been the best price. In the meantime, sellers are asking around 800 euros for a used model in Europe and after your video, the price will probably rise to 1000 euros haha.
I think the limitations make this camera more interesting. Id like to see shots with this with a flash setup. It's interesting that you get so much more resolution from this type of sensor. I wonder if it could be made smaller for smartphones to allow you to get much better detail rendition in good light from a smaller sensor (and then another sensor would automatically take over in low light
Robin or anyone ( who used this camera ) how their colors compares to Olympus ? and. would you recommend it for taking pictures or pieces of art ? ( fine art canvas ,.. murals .. clothing .. statues =not in museums but on streets. atelier's /studios ,.. = ). thank you also .. I know color and color interpretation is something subjective .. ( heck even raw files already have an algorithm applied subjective to each camera brand science). but still .. maybe it would be cool to make a vid about Colors.. how Olympus .OM take colors.. and compare it to Panasonic .. Nikon Canon .. etc.. not to laugh or throwing stones to them. but to see how each brand manages colors. in Raw files. I guess ? .. I have a friend who is fan of Canon .. and for instance .. he showed me how canon from d5 classic .. to 5D Mark ii, Mark III and 6D fluctuated with different .. casts ? or like subtle differences.. Im not a Fan of any brand .. but I like colors.. and I was able to see this differences in pictures that were taking not in sunny harsh bright day light . but in mornings bit overcast day light .. one camera was giving more earthy tones.. other more nice gentle.. warm s.. other more saturated .glossy. pop up colors.. meh. maybe its a foolish idea /too difficult do realize .. so apologies if I throwing stress with this ideas :P .. P personally I like Olympus colors .. specially how it makes skin tones.
Told you a while ago I use a dp2q if I need fingerlicking colors and details. Adapt yourself to its limits ,don't go above iso 160 and you can make magic happen.
In terms of working with color, the first generation of foveon would still be in the first place . However, even the first camera accidents require getting used to the software development and a general understanding of the system
I have no issue with the colors. My problem is the slow processing, poor dynamic range and high ISO. Heck ISO400 isn't even high and the images look unusable already.
Unfortunately , such an iso is a property of light redistribution over a three - layer matrix . Modern technology and a large sensor would greatly improve the situation in this regard. It is a pity that today this technology is not developing, unlike the standard and lower-budget Baer logic@@robinwong
aps-c, but because of the pixel layout its close to a 48mp sensor with no anti aliasing filter nor moire artifacts, people call it the mini medium format because of its extremely high micro contrast, realistic color and slow processing speed
Having owned a Dp and currently own a Sd Quattro you must use the histogram and always use custom white balance not auto wb. The raw files are very high in contrast and need very little work to produce superb results. These cameras are for the image conscious and not speed.
I can confirm it does pretty well, what the Foveon sensor needs to sing is basically to give as much light you can :) Just don’t do overly long ones as the sensor tends to get hot indeed
5:40 these are actually recoverable via Sigma Pro Photo software : Just reduce the exposure slider (first slider) a bit and bump up the shadows and special dynamic range slider (last slider) by 2 stops. Reducing the highlight slider is less effective than reducing the exposure and compensating the shadows and dynamic range
I did that with the software, obviously, because there was no other way to open their RAW files. Nope, STILL clipped. The original file, before the adjustments looked way worse.
Also, the point is, for a simple shot like this, it was not even a challenging situation for ANY camera from 10-15 years ago, there should be NO highlight clipping. The camera should be able to handle it without the need for post-processing intervention. And the software is kinda useless if you ask me. I can recover more dynamic range with a typical bayer first generation Micro Four Thirds sensor!
You know, I shot with many medium format film cameras, still have my fridge full of Ektar 100, Fuji 400H, Portra, Provia and Velvia, these are slow cameras too and the film development + scanning (and undusting) process is even slower so I accommodate perfectly with these smaller issues on the Quattro cameras. It’s possible to see blown highlights on screen, if it bothers, shoot at -0.3 IL or adjust the speed manually, the results are extremely worth it. I shot some family portraits and landscapes in south of France and Italy, they look mesmerizing. like Provia 120 film slides or Kodak portra 100 shots, depending on my processing settings.:.While I would love to have a more responsive AF or Sigma Pro software, I wouldn’t want a faster processing camera (like my Z8) because the Sigma files would be just keep too much space (which is already the case with the Z8 if shot at burst mode) so I consider my Sigma Quattro H and DP Quattros like analog digital cameras
Have it but rarely use it. The lens is extraordinary. The pictures are very detailed, but clinically cold.You.need bright light from the back. Otherwise reproduction gets mushy. In my humble view, the camera is a flop.
@@robinwong oh, thank you Robin, I know that - I was specifically wondering what people using for landscapes prefer. Of course also there you have to consider am I shooting wide open Pacific ocean views, or a mountain framed by a single farm plot with forests on both sides - one of them needs zoomed in more.
@@admiralvontirpitz7115 nice, thank you. The used prices seems to suggest it's both rare and the "very best" as "seen by most" lol. In fact, prices on both the DP Merrill and DP quattro are all still pretty close to just buying a new SD quattro .. though I don't really want that big camera honestly.
@@busydadscooking001 Yes, the DP0s tend to be sparse, and curiously enough it’s the only camera that I see regularly priced higher in the US than here in EU, but the lens is truly a marvel, a no-compromise ultra wide angle that is very sharp corner to corner from wide open and with very little distortion, I think that it alone could represent 90% of the cost of the camera :)
Hello Robin, thank you for testing strange cameras😅besides the "normal ones". Because of its general limitations you've described I would' nt say this Digma is an every day canera. It' s pergaps a niche. But therefore it' s to expensive. The Ricoh GR series ist as sharp as this Sigma without so much serious limitations (althouhg I would no use this also).
I had the dp0 but sold it in 3 weeks. By far the worst camera I had, design and functionality wise. Great build quality, but the grip was a nightmare. Also, the slowest camera I ever had with low battery life and totally inaccurate WB. The resolution is indeed phenomenal for APS-C size sensor with unique colours - when it works as intended. Unfortunately, in many (or most) cases you just get low DR/ noisy and generally pictures that don't inspire. Tripod is a must in all cases. It get even worse, as the camera produces proprietary RAW files that you can only edit in the god-awful Sigma software. You can opt for a "open-to-all RAW", but you lose quality and is double+ the size of Sigma's RAW. It's a very, very flawed design of a one-trick-pony of a sensor tech. BTW: Having MF cameras, IMHO I cannot in any circumstance call the dp quattro as "MF quality" camera. We can argue about SD H Quattro with a good lens VS a 50Mpixel MF, but definitely not the dp series.
@@robinwong are you comparing to an old 40mp MF cameras? Please specify what is "image quality" for you, than make a 1:1 comparison to MF camera and you will see it yourself :)
@@robinwong YES its good if you suffered something, coz why CZcams recommend me this video still I don't know, where is at least 35mm sensor camera ? n u r show casing crop sensor
I mean... I came out nearly 10 years ago. While it wasn't speedy then, it wasn't quite as pathetic. I don't know that it's worth the trade-off (even when new), but the usable resolution on Sigma Foveon sensors can be so good. With any subject with lots of detail, you can use a Sigma at a much higher magnification ratio. You have to zoom in an extra 2x or more for it to feel like pixel peeping. So it did it's one thing very well for cameras from that time, but it's not really going to hold up at all against modern cameras.
The camera has unique use case, studio, and landscape, or stills, with careful planning and low ISO shooting on tripod. The results still blow anything from full frame today.
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Ihave both the dp0 and the dp1, the latter was the kit with the viewfinder, which makes using the camera much easier. They are both challenging cameras: the results can be phenomenal. Worth mentioning is that they do a native 21:9 format and the B&W rendition is simply superb, the nicest I have ever seen. I've been using them both primarily in the 21:9 format as that is the perfect format to make a scene look like it is a still from a movie. There is a menu choice that generates files that include, basically, HDR, which alleviates the limited dynamic range, but at the cost of 300mb+ files that can only be worked on in the Sigma software. I shoot almost only B&W jpg with these cameras...
Yeah I am thinking nope to the 300Mb files. It is just a simple shot of a building, why does it have to be so complicated? Any camera can make it work! So come on Sigma, am sure they can do better.
@@robinwong Can't disagree! I love these cameras, but they are so niche. Happy to add one to a trip but never as the only one along...
@@robinwong It is a camera to accompany medium format film cameras in your bag - not to be compared with the Sony-Fuji led modern cameras. Only with that mindset can you learn to work around the limitations. Fitting a neutral density filter (or at least a UV filter) is a must. Learning to initially work with RAW is a must ( I can now get comparable jpgs sooc). With a bit more effort it CAN become your sole camera to be used in (almost) all situations. I primarily use my DP0 as a panoramic camera (via the 21:9 aspect ratio). One that can easily switch between a colour and B&W film "roll". It is important to make these distinctions... too many incorrect interpretations end up spoiling the image of the brand - but we like this because it keeps prices down. 😃
I actually like the slowness of this type of camera. I have been using the DP0 Quattro for a few years now, and I have to say it is one of the most enjoyable cameras for me to use. I mainly use it for landscape and some street photography, and the colours and detail are some of the best I have experienced in any of the cameras I have owned.
For me it is too slow for my kind of street photography. But in the right use case, the images are quite impressive indeed.
I have the dp2m and recently discovered a very simple workflow using sigma photo pro and exporting as 8 bit tiff, and then simply take off the hard edges and tweaking the colours in dxo filmpack
I had a DP2 and DP1 back in the day. They were unbelievably good when on form, but it was quite hard getting consistently good colour balance from them, and in terms of useability, they were very hard to love.
I was shooting in good light, so color wise, not much issue. Yeah there are other issues which I have mentioned.
I came for the camera, stayed for Robin. Wow, you have phenomenal upbeat energy - definitely got yourself a new subscriber! Keep up the awesome work 👍
In digital, I only buy cameras which have something really unique and special. And there are not many of those. Sigma's Foveon cameras are definitely one of these rare birds - and the most unique of those, as I think, is the DP0 Quattro, with a 21mm (35mm equivalent) lens. Shooting with that camera is really something else.
Usually I only use analog cameras. Therefore, the limited ISO range and slow processing of the Sigma cameras is of no concern to me, it actually makes taking pictures with the Sigmas similar to taking pictures with an analog camera. Last year, I finally ditched my Olympus Pen F and the Sigmas (I have four of them, a DP1 Merrill, DP3 Merrill, DP0 Quattro and SD Quattro) are now the only digital cameras I use (besides my Smartphone, of course).
If you can survive with the slowness, of course the Sigma is more than sufficient. I shoot fast paced moving subjects, so yeah you can see my pain. Also, that non-existent dynamic range, I just can't!
I have 7 Sigma cameras, digital Leica and Hasselblad, but I will never ditch my Olympus Pen F…in fact I have 3. There is a place for that special little gem. If anything, it gives me contrast to the slower cameras. The Olympus cameras are my reliable sure fire cameras, and the others are for slow art. The two types give me variety and help me appreciate the others.
Definitiv nicht für Porträt geeignet weil viel zu scharf darstellt, man sollte die Schärfe unbedingt runterregeln. Ich besitze einige Sigmas DP, Merrills keine fp-L ! Sie machen viel Mühe und es dauert alles sehr viel länger , es lohnt sich aber. Wollte mir noch eine DP0 kaufen aber es gibt kaum welche .
I have both the DP1 and DP3 . Absolutely love these cameras. I shoot mainly B&W and find the B&W straight out of camera jpegs are fantastic. No need for raw in most situations although i shoot in both just incase.
Its been said before many times, this is basically a digital FLIM camera and if you think of it that way you will come to terms with its short comings. I use this camera with the intention of going out to do photography. Its definitely not a point and shoot or snap shot camera for kids birthday party's.
Take a tripod, stick to 100 iso unless your shooting BW then 400 is quite acceptable, take your time and you'll be rewarded without having to lug around a medium format camera. Just my two cents worth :)
I know the camera design is very polarizing but I think it is absolutely beautiful. Have DP0 and SDQ but still wanting the 1, 2, and 3 Quattros.
The Foveon sensor is wonderful. I own the Sigma DP2s and the DP1 Merrill. The colors on a sunny day are spectacular - especially the blues are second to none.
I believe it holds true for all the current Foveon sensor cameras, that they are noise monsters, if you use an ISO above 200, and it's better at 100, than 200.
Yes, you have to make sure you don't overexpose, but even the slow processing - and the proprietary RAW files, that are best processed with Sigmas own (free) software is worth it in my opinion. That's how great good photos out of this system are.
I sometimes crank it up to 400 iso, it’s manageable and looks like FuJI 400H film
With the right use case, within the camera's limitations, the images are second to none, especially when it comes to sharpness and contrast. However, the issues are real, and they get in the way of me shooting, so that is indeed too bad. I hope Sigma does not give up, and continue to develop modern Foveon cameras
I had this camera. This camera produces amazing color once in awhile. It had dust on the sensor and took it to a service center for cleaning in the US. They told me that only Sigma Japan can fix it since there are no tools to open this bad boy to service it. I sold it the next day.
WoW..............those are some stunning photos!!!!
The Sigma can produce some impressive results!
Foveon seems to be good idea for landscapes, studio shots and some other stuff with base ISO as you mentioned, then it shows very good results. But it is not for general use.
Maybe something like black&white sensor cameras, that are also fine for one specific type of shooting, but cannot cover everything like any standard DSLR/ILC.
Yeah the Sigma has very limited use case
I have heard of this camera else where and had a chance to buy one. But the review I read discouraged me from getting it. Your experience confirm much of the problems I had previously read. Thank you for a look at this unique piece of photography history..
The Sigma Foveon cameras have a lot of potential, too bad there are just too many issues.
The technical issues if poor dynamic range and poor high iso performance are related. Besides that, Foveons have a high dark current signal since their complicated silicon structure. You can get no clean black from that sensor.
What Sigma does for that is brutal "exposure to the right". Besides that, it are still impressive photographs. :)
Yeah, the shadows certainly had some issues. Thanks for the kind words!
No clean blacks in prints either luckily
Nice review of a very niche but very capable little camera (in the right conditions, that is), owned a DP0 myself (now sold to buy a SD4H, to have lens flexibility). Always loved the microdetails that all Foveon’s incarnations managed to pull out and the Quattros have the best color rendition of them all for my tastes. Highlight dynamic range is a real issue if you don’t use SFD mode, the only way to shoot this camera in high contrast scenes is to really ETTR to the death and then try to pull up the shadows, where most of the DR of this camera sits (contrary to the Merrills). B&W rendering is another killing “feature” of those cameras and you can get away with 800 ISO with that.
I have the entire series collection of the dp (0,1,2,3) Quattro's and I will admit, the colors and details that each one captures are amazing for a Point and Shoot / DSLR? hybrid. The only catch is, you need the most proper lighting (preferably natural lighting - mid to late afternoon is the best) for the most proper capture output with least amount of post edit needed.
For me to buy a new Foveon camera the two "drop dead" requirements would be IBIS and a fixed EVF, because I'd want it to work as a travel camera. I'd be OK with APS-C or APS-H, a selection of fixed lens versions, no video, and a larger body than the DPs. I'd hope for improved DR and processing speed, a bump in high ISO performance and a new version of the Merrills' 15/15/15 sensor. If Sigma ever brings out new Foveons, I'd expect them to offer one or more interchangable lens L-mount bodies. Given the resolving power of the Foveon, I don't think going full frame is necessary.
This is the first video of yours I've seen before. Love it! New subscriber!
Thanks, welcome and feel free to explore around!
ah a review close to my heart. I owned the previous version briefly and ask my self to his day why i ever sold it.. aside from the obvious reason of using it only rarely. The sensor technology is really fascinating.
I love my DP2Q. I'll tell you this: with the exception of monochrome mode, if the camera isn't on a tripod, you're not using it properly. The lens and sensor are perfectly calibrated to each other so ANY motion blows the effect. Check this out, dude: I took some sunset photos in Hawaii and when I viewed them on a monitor later, I saw something in the waves, way back in the image, near the horizon. When I zoomed in I saw it was someone paddling a canoe. It looked like something out of an 8 bit computer game -- a perfect, sharply defined pixelated figure. That means the optics are actually able to resolve to the pixel level! I've yet to see another camera that can do that.
At fast enough shutter speeds (under bright sun), say 1/1000 or faster, I doubt a tripod will make any difference. But at slower speeds, yes, I agree with you.
@@robinwongI can't explain it, maybe it has something to do with the three layers of the sensor. But try it and you'll see. Kicks the quality up a whole grade. I even use the 2 second timer all the time.
Notwithstanding its weaknesses, this camera's design has a futuristic vibe that looks fun to use -if the price is right I may consider getting one myself.
I owned the DP2 Quattro and the SD quattro and really enjoyed my time with them, mostly because I thought of them almost like film cameras. Shooting very slow abnd methodical to make sure I would get the best exposure and also keep the camera steady. When you got a great shot, it was mind blowing.Unfortunately the negatives you mentioned eventually outweighed the good, but I really hope Sigma delivers on the potential of the Foveon technology with their upcoming full frame foeveon sensor.
Haha if it ever comes out.
@@GrainOnTheGo it’s been delayed forever but I have faith
@@WMARUoriginal Ayy we can hope it comes
Yeah lets hope Sigma does not give up so soon
Hi @Robin Wong! I was invited by Sigma to test and review this camera before it was released. I had the same experience. Poor dynamic range. Poor ISO response above base ISO. The RGB sensor concept is amazing on paper. It's very difficult to make one responsive at higher ISO in practice. Perhaps one day technology and software will improve to the point where this is a viable solution.
I do really love this camera!
wow. finally!! so cool you grabbed this camera for a review/test .!
Yeap, borrowed from a friend.
I would love to see these re-packaged in a new generation with some quality of life improvements.
Same here
You always come up with interesting cameras to try. The sharpness surprised me enough to pause and rewind a couple times. It looks like it would be fun to use for landscapes after hearing your thoughts.
Yes, the sharpness is quite impressive!
if 45mm is your only landscape FL - why not, but if you'll add DP0 (21mm EFL) and DP1 (29mm EFL) - here is your perfect daytime landscape kit :)
I really enjoyed your thoughts on the Sigma DP2 Quattro, your enthusiasm was infectious, thank you 🎉
I know you are mostly a dedicated Micro Four Thirds shooter, but also see that you like to try different cameras. I suggest you look at the Canon 77D with the EF-S 24mm pancake lens combination for street shooting. This is a small and light body with a deep grip, comfortable all day. You've got an APS-C sensor, a full information viewfinder, and a flip-out touch sensor screen. The 24mm pancake is about 38mm equivalent. The camera has the image quality of the much larger EOS 80D in a much smaller package. You've got the full vast Canon EF lens inventory for compatible lenses. What more could one want? Sorry to be a bit off topic here, but I don't see a place for general comments. Keep up the good work!
I love your videos man. Keep that up. I purchased this camera. I love it. It's my slow camera with no kids around. No video can explain what it feels like to see the pictures it takes
That's one weird concept thing. Always love the channel music, makes me feel relaxed.
Thanks Robin. I tried a DP-2 when they first came out and noticed I had to expose for highlights, which was not a deal-breaker for me as used to shoot mostly ASA 25 and 64 color slide film. As I recall, I was often able to recover detail from under-exposed areas an still get lovely images. My take-away was that it was a one-trick pony but it did that trick well enough I'd likely use it a lot.
Looks like this is a very narrow niche camera. The ISO limitations, it isn't pocket friendly, and the "10 seconds" may result in missing too many optimal shots.
Appreciate the tutorial!
You’re right Wong..slow processing can’t be a nightmare
I have tried to fall in love with Sigma‘s DP 1 Merrill, DP 2 Merrill and later with the DP 0 Quattro. The images can be stunning for sure. However, at the end of the day they were always too quirky for me. And I generally like quirky things. Dynamic range, high ISO performance, battery life, speed, … the list goes on and on. But from time to time I have a look at some of the photos I managed to take with them and then I really do miss them. But still, for me Sigma cameras have always been too much compromise. Sadly.
I think I’m gonna keep my Merrill around, unless they continue to shoot up in price 😅
Yeah hopefully Sigma does not give up, and continue to explore the system further
I have the SD1 Merrill, which also has a FOVEON sensor, albeit a lower resolution one. I like the different rendering I get from a FOVEON sensor, though the SD1 Merrill doesn't have an IR filter as part of the sensor array but rather a separate detachable one, which is interesting to say the least. I still haven't tried it for B&W photography with the IR filter removed, which is something I'm looking into sometime in the future.
Happy Monday Robin, have a safe, fun and blessed week.
Hey Rob, have a great week ahead.
Always an interesting concept that was somehow abandoned. I see it like a Film camera experience where you go out with a single Roll of 100 ASA and try to make it work, but I agree it could do much better with modern technology.
Yeah lets hope Sigma updates their Foveon cameras
I had one of the oldest Foveon cameras the Sigma SD9. It's sad that the only thing Sigma seemed to improve over the years was the resolution. Everything that was bad about my camera seems to also apply to the latest ones they made. I do like the colors, but the cameras are painfully slow with zero high iso capability. My old SD9 camera at 400 iso, looked the same as my Nikon D500 at 52,000 iso!
I love the design and agree, that with further development this could be a great camera.
Hi Robin, wow that sensor is amazing I never knew it existed, glad I hadn't upgraded yet. "10 seconds unforgivable" 😅 I laughed so hard hopefully the model I want is faster
I think to maximise the DR you need to be very careful not to clip the highlights during exposure. The shadows can be recovered very effectively in the Sigma Photo Pro s/w, but not the highlights. As you say, it would be great to see a modern version of the Sigma DP cameras but I think Sigma have taken an alternative path now....... a shame as the photographic world is missing out (in my opinion [as a Foveon addict!]).
I was not even "maximizing" dynamic range. It was a simple and straightforward scene, with some bright spots, which no camera from 10-15 years ago had any issues handling. I can't imagine using the Sigma in truly challenging, harsh lighting environment.
@@robinwong I agree, Sigma cameras are a challenge! A couple of years ago I was looking for a Sigma DSLR and was amazed to find someone selling two SD14 camera bodies they had been using as a professional wedding photographer!!
I highly suggest using spot metering or using the histogram. The Dp metering can be easily tricked causing blown out highlights. . I also suggest adding Fill light in Sigma photo pro. This reduces highlight blowouts and increases shadow details. Great review on a unique camera that forces you to slow down. @@robinwong
I can understand that you mention the shortcomings, cause they are here. But let's agree to disagree, I shot the bigger Brother Sigma SD Quattro H til 2018, in the morning and the evening. There are a few things who are frustrating and to consider. As you mentioned...
- it's not an Action Cam, everything over ISO 400 is unusable, but if you use the Wonderful Black and White Mode you can shoot at night up to ISO 800.
The use of Sigma Photo Pro is a must. If you want to get most out of the Sigma Raw Files, make Use of Sigma Photo Pro. The Usability of it seems to be some kind of awkward but it does a great Job in getting the best out of the Raw Files.
- I shot with this Camera in Monument Valley before and after Sun Rise the Results were quite pleasing, but I have to admit that I had to work on the Raw Files in Sigma Photo Pro.
- Also I shot in Munich at night... in the Black and White Mode which keeps up quite well and the Black and White Pictures look fantastic. Also I tried to transfer the Black an White Raw Files with Sigma Photo Pro to Sigma Natural Colors and interestingly there was nearly no noise.
The Sigma Foveon Cameras are very special, you have to take your time, there are a lot of Shortcomings as you mentioned. This is not a Camera who is competing with any another brand… or competitive as a „Jack of all Trades“, i don’t know any camera besides film, who has so many limits. But if you respect he limits and use the camera for what it was constructed, it will give you a great reward. The Camera is a joy to use in Manual Mode. For the Quattro I can say.. The Quattro is a real workhorse, in 2019 the Quattro literally saved my ass when we were four weeks in Arizona and California for Vacation..
The Camera worked flawlessly in the Desert of Arizona when my Nikon Gear stopped working in Monument Valley, and the mount on the Nikon broke in Monterey. we only had the Sigma left, but The Results we achieved with this Camera were extraordinary as a landscape Camera it’s a pure Joy to use.
The System worked also in Winter and in Rain.. there was til now no real problem. never made use of a camera who brought me so much Joy to create Landscape Pictures.
Nevertheless the Product has it’s limits. The Sigma Foveon Sensor is only usable between 100-400 ISO.
Nice review, Robin! Great info, really like how you laid everything out 👏
I don't care how impressive the sensor is, there's nothing aesthetically or design wise about that camera that would inspire me. Just my own personal opinion of course
I thought the camera looks beautiful, better than those "typical recycled designs in most camera" look
Actually I was thinking like that as well, then when I started to use one, I was amazed on how ergonomic and not uncomfortable was to use and hold it :)
It indeed looks like medium format 6x7 or 6x9
Indeed they do
I've been interested in this camera for a while. I've read that some of them have changed hands for less than 200 euros on the second-hand market, but when I started to look for one two years ago, 450 euros would have been the best price. In the meantime, sellers are asking around 800 euros for a used model in Europe and after your video, the price will probably rise to 1000 euros haha.
Yeah the weirder the camera is, the higher the price will be
I think the limitations make this camera more interesting. Id like to see shots with this with a flash setup.
It's interesting that you get so much more resolution from this type of sensor. I wonder if it could be made smaller for smartphones to allow you to get much better detail rendition in good light from a smaller sensor (and then another sensor would automatically take over in low light
Robin or anyone ( who used this camera ) how their colors compares to Olympus ? and. would you recommend it for taking pictures or pieces of art ? ( fine art canvas ,.. murals .. clothing .. statues =not in museums but on streets. atelier's /studios ,.. = ). thank you also .. I know color and color interpretation is something subjective .. ( heck even raw files already have an algorithm applied subjective to each camera brand science). but still .. maybe it would be cool to make a vid about Colors.. how Olympus .OM take colors.. and compare it to Panasonic .. Nikon Canon .. etc.. not to laugh or throwing stones to them. but to see how each brand manages colors. in Raw files. I guess ? .. I have a friend who is fan of Canon .. and for instance .. he showed me how canon from d5 classic .. to 5D Mark ii, Mark III and 6D fluctuated with different .. casts ? or like subtle differences.. Im not a Fan of any brand .. but I like colors.. and I was able to see this differences in pictures that were taking not in sunny harsh bright day light . but in mornings bit overcast day light .. one camera was giving more earthy tones.. other more nice gentle.. warm s.. other more saturated .glossy. pop up colors.. meh. maybe its a foolish idea /too difficult do realize .. so apologies if I throwing stress with this ideas :P .. P personally I like Olympus colors .. specially how it makes skin tones.
Thank you Robin .
Thanks Christine!
Told you a while ago I use a dp2q if I need fingerlicking colors and details. Adapt yourself to its limits ,don't go above iso 160 and you can make magic happen.
I CANNOT adapt myself to the limits, the camera should do the work. If the camera has such limited use case, it will stay in the drybox forever.
In terms of working with color, the first generation of foveon would still be in the first place . However, even the first camera accidents require getting used to the software development and a general understanding of the system
I have no issue with the colors. My problem is the slow processing, poor dynamic range and high ISO. Heck ISO400 isn't even high and the images look unusable already.
Unfortunately , such an iso is a property of light redistribution over a three - layer matrix . Modern technology and a large sensor would greatly improve the situation in this regard. It is a pity that today this technology is not developing, unlike the standard and lower-budget Baer logic@@robinwong
Greetings from Brazil!
I love the foveon sensor.. great video!
Thank you. Your images are great.
my mans jacked
Is it actually medium format? What is the size of its sensor?
aps-c, but because of the pixel layout its close to a 48mp sensor with no anti aliasing filter nor moire artifacts, people call it the mini medium format because of its extremely high micro contrast, realistic color and slow processing speed
@@v000000000000v and the files wide open look very close to any 6x7 or 6x9 film shot it’s incredible
I did not say this was a medium format camera. I said "medium format" quality
Having owned a Dp and currently own a Sd Quattro you must use the histogram and always use custom white balance not auto wb. The raw files are very high in contrast and need very little work to produce superb results. These cameras are for the image conscious and not speed.
If you shoot RAW, you can adjust the white balance later with no compromise.
Picture quality is good, but somehow i dont know why the color rendering looks like smartphone? Or just a post editing?
Thank you :)
Cheers
I wonder how it goes with long exposures at base iso? It could make a great camera for tripod shooting at night.
I dare not look at the long exposure Hot Pixels.
I can confirm it does pretty well, what the Foveon sensor needs to sing is basically to give as much light you can :) Just don’t do overly long ones as the sensor tends to get hot indeed
I bet this would shine, if someone can shove a Noctilux lens on this thing.
Will not change the fact that it is slow, has poor dynamic range and low light shooting.
@@robinwong Yeah, you’re right tbh. No sense using such an expensive lens when the body simply can’t take advantage of it.
WoW not advisable to use above iso 400?
5:40 these are actually recoverable via Sigma Pro Photo software : Just reduce the exposure slider (first slider) a bit and bump up the shadows and special dynamic range slider (last slider) by 2 stops. Reducing the highlight slider is less effective than reducing the exposure and compensating the shadows and dynamic range
I did that with the software, obviously, because there was no other way to open their RAW files. Nope, STILL clipped. The original file, before the adjustments looked way worse.
Also, the point is, for a simple shot like this, it was not even a challenging situation for ANY camera from 10-15 years ago, there should be NO highlight clipping. The camera should be able to handle it without the need for post-processing intervention. And the software is kinda useless if you ask me. I can recover more dynamic range with a typical bayer first generation Micro Four Thirds sensor!
You know, I shot with many medium format film cameras, still have my fridge full of Ektar 100, Fuji 400H, Portra, Provia and Velvia, these are slow cameras too and the film development + scanning (and undusting) process is even slower so I accommodate perfectly with these smaller issues on the Quattro cameras. It’s possible to see blown highlights on screen, if it bothers, shoot at -0.3 IL or adjust the speed manually, the results are extremely worth it. I shot some family portraits and landscapes in south of France and Italy, they look mesmerizing. like Provia 120 film slides or Kodak portra 100 shots, depending on my processing settings.:.While I would love to have a more responsive AF or Sigma Pro software, I wouldn’t want a faster processing camera (like my Z8) because the Sigma files would be just keep too much space (which is already the case with the Z8 if shot at burst mode) so I consider my Sigma Quattro H and DP Quattros like analog digital cameras
Have it but rarely use it. The lens is extraordinary. The pictures are very detailed, but clinically cold.You.need bright light from the back. Otherwise reproduction gets mushy. In my humble view, the camera is a flop.
Curious for anyone using for landscapes - what's the best focal length to get out of sigmas fixed lens cameras?
There is no "best" focal length. Each focal length has their own use case
Surely the DP0, it has an exceptional 21mm equivalent no-compromise (I.e. pretty huge) F4 lens and is seen by most as the very best of the DPQ series
@@robinwong oh, thank you Robin, I know that - I was specifically wondering what people using for landscapes prefer. Of course also there you have to consider am I shooting wide open Pacific ocean views, or a mountain framed by a single farm plot with forests on both sides - one of them needs zoomed in more.
@@admiralvontirpitz7115 nice, thank you. The used prices seems to suggest it's both rare and the "very best" as "seen by most" lol. In fact, prices on both the DP Merrill and DP quattro are all still pretty close to just buying a new SD quattro .. though I don't really want that big camera honestly.
@@busydadscooking001 Yes, the DP0s tend to be sparse, and curiously enough it’s the only camera that I see regularly priced higher in the US than here in EU, but the lens is truly a marvel, a no-compromise ultra wide angle that is very sharp corner to corner from wide open and with very little distortion, I think that it alone could represent 90% of the cost of the camera :)
Hello Robin, thank you for testing strange cameras😅besides the "normal ones". Because of its general limitations you've described I would' nt say this Digma is an every day canera. It' s pergaps a niche. But therefore it' s to expensive. The Ricoh GR series ist as sharp as this Sigma without so much serious limitations (althouhg I would no use this also).
Trust me, Ricoh GR is nowhere as sharp as Sigma with Foveon sensors, not even close.
Is the Sigma DP2 Quattro medium format or ASPC?
It has Foveon sensor that resolves higher level pixels (full color per pixel).
Seems someone's not gonna switch from MFT :)
There is a reason why Sigma didn't bother with another iteration after 10 years 😆
I would likely always have a small tripod if i used this
I had the dp0 but sold it in 3 weeks. By far the worst camera I had, design and functionality wise.
Great build quality, but the grip was a nightmare.
Also, the slowest camera I ever had with low battery life and totally inaccurate WB.
The resolution is indeed phenomenal for APS-C size sensor with unique colours - when it works as intended.
Unfortunately, in many (or most) cases you just get low DR/ noisy and generally pictures that don't inspire. Tripod is a must in all cases.
It get even worse, as the camera produces proprietary RAW files that you can only edit in the god-awful Sigma software.
You can opt for a "open-to-all RAW", but you lose quality and is double+ the size of Sigma's RAW.
It's a very, very flawed design of a one-trick-pony of a sensor tech.
BTW: Having MF cameras, IMHO I cannot in any circumstance call the dp quattro as "MF quality" camera.
We can argue about SD H Quattro with a good lens VS a 50Mpixel MF, but definitely not the dp series.
The photo looks harsh.
he is using dng files with poor dynamic range, x3f files with portret profile improves things a lot
the design of this makes my hands hurt. its a bizarre looking thing.
It seems like sigma is the last camera manufacturer that experiments with designs and sensors. But that camera is uggggglllllyyyyyy!!
I thought the camera looked beautiful, and I like that it is different from all the "typical generic camera" look.
Sorry Robin, I think you've been too long on MFT, while this is indeed nice little APS-C camera, image quality, compare to MF, is like night and day
A lot of people seem to have disagreed with you here. Of course, you are entitled to your opinion.
@@robinwong are you comparing to an old 40mp MF cameras? Please specify what is "image quality" for you, than make a 1:1 comparison to MF camera and you will see it yourself :)
Mr. do u know what is medium format ? 😅
waisted my 2 min.
I think my waist suffered reading this comment.
@@robinwong YES its good if you suffered something, coz why CZcams recommend me this video still I don't know, where is at least 35mm sensor camera ? n u r show casing crop sensor
Too expensive.
Limitations aren’t worth it
Agreed. But that does not mean they should give up and not explore further
Why do these shots look over sharpened 😁
Because all other images from other cameras are not sharp enough.
How can sigma bring out a camera with such pathetic performance? Low dynamic range and poor performance! 👎
I mean... I came out nearly 10 years ago. While it wasn't speedy then, it wasn't quite as pathetic. I don't know that it's worth the trade-off (even when new), but the usable resolution on Sigma Foveon sensors can be so good. With any subject with lots of detail, you can use a Sigma at a much higher magnification ratio. You have to zoom in an extra 2x or more for it to feel like pixel peeping. So it did it's one thing very well for cameras from that time, but it's not really going to hold up at all against modern cameras.
1:13 @@thebitterfig9903
The camera has unique use case, studio, and landscape, or stills, with careful planning and low ISO shooting on tripod. The results still blow anything from full frame today.