F30S04101

EM-140 DG
INSTRUCTIONS BEDIENUNGSANLEITUNG MODE DEMPLOI INSTRUCCIONES ISTRUZIONI PER LUSO

ELECTRONIC FLASH MACRO

SA-STTL
ENGLISH DEUTSCH FRANAIS ESPAOL ITALIANO
2~9 10~17 18~26 27~34 35~42 43~50 51~57

6. 11. SEL 16. LIGHT

7. 12. 17.

8. 13. 18. 14. LAMP

9. 15. TEST

10. MODE

MACRO 50mm F2.8 EX DG

MACRO 105mm F2.8 EX DG

55mm, 58mm 62mm, 72mm, 77mm

4 4

4 ON TEST

ON OFF ON TEST

LIGHT 8
TTL P SA-300 SA-300N SA-5 ON TTL TTL TTL MODE
TTL S-TTL TTL TTL 5 SA-300 SA-300N SA-5 TTL
SD S-TTL SEL 1 8:1~1:8 2

SA TTL SEL SEL 1

TTL, M(1/1, 1/2) M(1/4, 1/8) M(1/16 1/32) 10 MULTI

1/1~1/64 M

MODE SEL

M 1 --

SA-300

FP M MODE M

2) F m F

SD9 SD10 M

SA-300N

MODE TEST

SD10 MODE SEL SEL 3 3
3 M MODE SEL SEL SEL SEL MULTI
EF-500 DG SUPER SA-STTL(SA-N)
(EM-140) (EF-500 DG SUPER SA-STTL(SA-N))

OFF MODE SEL SEL

(EM-140) MODE SEL

(EM-140)

(EF-500) S M 1 ON ISO MODE SEL C1 SEL C2 30

SEL EF-500 AF

ISO 100
80 430g 76.7mm 136.2mm 82.4mm 126.6mm 128.8mm 30.5mm

ENGLISH

Thank you for purchasing the Sigma Electronic FlashMacro EM-140 DG. The advanced features of this flashgun allow you to enjoy AF Macro photography. Depending on the camera model, functions and operation may vary. Please read this instruction booklet carefully. To add to your enjoyment of photography, the flash has a variety of features. To make the most of all these features, and to get the maximum performance and enjoyment from your flash, please read this instruction booklet, together with your cameras instruction manual, before using the flash, and keep it handy for future reference. (This Flashgun is exclusive for SIGMA SD,SA series cameras)

PRECAUTIONS

In order to avoid causing any damage or injury, please read this instruction manual very carefully, paying attention to the cautionary signs below, before using the flash. Please take special note of the two cautionary signs below. Warning !! Using the product disregarding this warning sign might cause serious injury or other dangerous results. Using the product disregarding this caution sign might cause injury or damage. Symbol denotes the important points, where warning and caution are required. Symbol contains information regarding the actions that must be avoided.

Caution!!

Warning !!
This flash contains high voltage circuits. To avoid electric shock or burns, do not attempt to disassemble the flash. If the outside shell of the unit is broken or cracked, do not touch the mechanism inside. Do not fire the flash close to eyes. Otherwise the bright light could damage the eyes. Keep at least 1m/3feet distance between face and the flash unit, when taking a picture with flash. Do not touch the synchro terminal of your camera when the flash is attached to hot shoe. High voltage circuitry could cause electric shock. Never use your camera in an environment where flammable, burnable, gas, liquids or chemicals, etc, exist. Otherwise, it might cause fire or explosion.

Caution !!

Do not use this flash unit on any camera other than the SIGMA SD,SA series cameras; otherwise the flash may damage the circuitry of these cameras. This flash unit is not waterproof. When using the flash and camera in the rain or snow or near water, keep it from getting wet. It is often impractical to repair internal electrical components damaged by water. Never subject the flash and camera to shock, dust, high temperature or humidity. These factors might cause fire or malfunctioning of your equipment. When the flash is subjected to sudden temperature change, as when the flash unit is brought from a cold exterior to warm interior, condensation might form inside. In such a case, place your equipment in a sealed plastic bag before such a change, and do not use the flash unit, until it reaches room temperature. Do not store your flash in a drawer or cupboard etc., containing naphthalene, camphor or other insecticides. These chemicals will have negative effects on the flash unit. Do not use a thinner, Benzene or other cleaning agents to remove dirt or finger prints from the component. Clean with a soft, moistened cloth. For extended storage, choose a cool dry place, preferably with good ventilation. It is recommended that the flash be charged and fired several times a month, to maintain proper capacitor functioning.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PARTS

Flash Unit 1.Left Flashtube 2.Right Flashtube 3. Auxiliary Light 4. Release Tab 5.MacroFlash Adapter Controller Unit 6.LCD Panel 7.Battery Cover 8.Shoe Ring 9.Shoe 10.MODE Button 11.SEL SELECT Button 12. + Increment Button 13. - Decrement Button 14.LAMP Button 15.TEST Button 16.LIGHT Button 17.Ready Light 18.Power Switch

LENS USABILITY

Although this Flash is designed specifically for Macro lenses (MACRO 50mm F2.8 EX DG, MACRO 105mm F2.8 EX DG, etc.) it is also possible to use it with other lens types, however please pay attention to the following points. Front part or other parts of some lenses rotate while focusing, and also attaching the ring flash to such lenses would affect focusing mechanism of your camera, possibly resulting in malfunction. Please use Manual Focus only with such lenses. 55mm, and 58mm filter MacroFlash Adapters are bundled with your flashgun. If you want to attach your flashgun to a lens which has a different filter size then please purchase separately a MacroFlash Adapter. (Only 62mm, 72mm, 77mm macroflash adapters are available). Depending on the lens focal length or the distance to subject or another reason, it is possible that your image might be affected by vignetting. Please take some test shoots first to be sure that your setting is not causing vignetting.

ABOUT THE BATTERY

This flash unit uses four AA type Alkaline dry cell batteries or Ni-Cad, Ni-MH, rechargeable batteries. Manganese batteries can also be used but as they have a shorter life than Alkaline batteries, we do not recommend using them. Please replace batteries if it takes more than 30seconds to light the Ready Lamp. To assure proper electrical contact, clean the battery terminals before installing the batteries NiCad batteries do not have standardized contacts. If you use NiCad batteries, please confirm that the battery contacts touch the battery compartment properly. To prevent battery explosion, leakage or overheating, use four new AA batteries of the same type and brand. Do not mix the type or new and used batteries. Do not disassemble or short-circuit batteries, or expose them fire or water; they may explode. Also, do not recharge the batteries other than Ni-Cd rechargeable batteries. When the flash will not be used for an extended period of time, remove the batteries from the flash, to avoid the possibility of damage from leakage. Battery performance decreases at low temperatures. Keep batteries insulated when using the flash in cold weather. As with any flash, it is recommended you carry spare batteries when on a long trip, or when photographing outdoors in cold weather.

BATTERY LOADING

1. Be sure to set the Power Switch to the off position then slide, the battery cover in the direction of the arrow to open. 2. Insert four AA size batteries into the battery chamber. Be sure the + and ends of the batteries are aligned according to the diagram in the chamber. 3. Close the cover. 4. Slide the Power Switch to the ON position. After few seconds, the Ready Lamp will light, indicating that the flash unit can be fired. 5. Please press the Test Button to be sure that the flash is working properly.

AUTO POWER OFF

To conserve battery power, the flash unit automatically turns itself off when the flash is not used within approximately 5 minutes. To turn the flash on again, depress the TEST button or the camera shutter button, halfway. Please note that, Auto Power Off mechanism does not work with wireless TTL flash mode, normal slave flash, and designated slave flash modes.

ERROR INDICATION

If the battery power is not sufficient or there is electric information error between the camera and flash unit, the Flash Coverage Angle will blink on the LCD panel. When this occurs, turn the power switch off and on. If it still blinks, after this procedure, check the battery power.
ATTACHING THE CONTROLLER UNIT
Be sure turn off the Power Switch. Then insert the Shoe Base into the hot shoe on the camera and turn the Shoe Locking Ring until it is tight. When you attach or remove the flash, grasp the bottom of the flash to prevent damage to the shoe foot and cameras hot shoe. If the cameras built-in flash is set in up position, please close it before you attach the flash unit. To remove the flash, rotate the shoe-locking ring in the opposite direction of LOCK mark, until it stops.

ATTACHING THE FLASH UNIT

1. Attach the MacroFlash adapter to the lens filter tread. 2. While pressing the left and right release tabs on both sides of the holder, place the flash unit over the adapter, then release both tabs. You can adjust the position by rotating the flash unit. Press the release tab when you detach the unit from the lens.

LCD PANEL ILLUMINATION

When you press the LIGHT button, the LCD panel will illuminate for about 8 seconds. The illumination stays on longer than 8sec, if you press the LIGHT button once again.

AUXILIARY LIGHT

If LAMP button on the Flash Units is pushed, the auxiliary light will emit for 20 seconds. In a dark place, it will be easy to focus by using the auxiliary light. This fuction is very convenient when composing pictures where auto focus does not operate well or where focus adjusment in manual is difficult. If the shutter button is depressed it will stop working.

TTL AUTO FLASH

In the TTL AUTO Mode, the camera will control the amount of flash lighting to provide the appropriate exposure for the subject. 1. Set the cameras exposure mode to P Mode. (In the case of SA-300, SA-300N and SA-5 set to fully automatic mode) 2. Turn on the power switch of the flash, the TTL mark will appear on the LCD panel and flash will start charging. (If TTL mark does not appear, depress the MODE button several times to select the TTL mode). 3. Focus on your subject.
4. Check that the subject is located within the effective distance range, indicated on the LCD panel. 5. Press the shutter button, after the flash is fully charged. When the flash is fully charged, the ready light in the viewfinder, and appears on the flash unit. The TTL exposure is controlled by the S-TTL system of the digital camera. If the flash is set to TTL, the character "d" (digital) will be displayed on the LCD panel. When the camera receives the appropriate exposure, the TTL mark on the LCD panel will appear for 5 seconds. If this indication does not appear, the flash illumination is not enough for that situation. Please re-take the picture, at a closer distance. If the SA-300, SA-300N and SA-5 cameras, are set to fully automatic mode, Flash will automatically switch to TTL mode only. For other camera exposure modes, the flash will be set to the last chosen mode each time. When the flash is fully charged, the flash mark will appear in the finder. If the shutter is released before the flash is fully charged, the flash will not fire, and the camera will take the picture at a slow shutter speed.
It is possible to give the three dimensional effect to your pictures by adjusting the flash ratio of left or right flash tube or by firing only one side of the flash.
SD series 3. In the S-TTL mode, the flash ratio blinks when you press SEL button. 4. Press the + or button to set the flash ratio. Pressing + button will increase the left flashtube and pressing button will increase the power amount of the right flashtube. The ratio can be set up among 8:1~1:8. Press the + or - button to trigger only one side. (flash ratio will not be displayed and only firing side will blink) 5. Press the SEL button several times to stop the blinking. If the flash ratio is set to 1:1 or the mode is changed, this function will be cancelled. SA series Flash ratio cannot be set. Only one side can be set. 1. In the TTL mode, press the SEL button to make the Flash Unit display blink. 2. By pressing the + button, the left flashtube will fire, and by pressing the - button, the right flashtube will fire. (Only the firing side will blink on the flash unit display) 3. Press the SEL button several times to stop the blinking. After shooting please press SEL button and then the + or - button. By doing this flash unit will be set to default mode, display will show both sides.

USING FLASH IN OTHER CAMERA MODES
Shutter Speed Priority Setting
By selecting the S mode of the camera, you can set the shutter speed from 30sec. to 1/X sync speed. When you set the desired shutter speed, the camera will select the appropriate aperture value for the background. If the subject is too light or too dark, the aperture value indicator will blink and show the limit values (maximum or minimum aperture). In such as case, the camera proceeds to take flash photograph at the limit value. Thus, the main subject in the picture may be exposed correctly, but the background will become under or over exposed.
Aperture Priority Setting
By selecting the A mode of your camera, the camera will select the appropriate shutter speed for the background. If the subject is too bright or too dark, the shutter speed indicator will blink and show the limit highest or slowest shutter speed value. The highest shutter speed will be limited to the cameras normal flash synchronization speed. In such a case, the camera proceeds to take a flash photograph at the limit value. Thus, the main subject in a picture may be exposed correctly, but the background will become under or overexposed.

When used with M Mode

You can set the desired shutter speed and aperture value. You can set the shutter speed from top sync speed to bulb. If you adjust the exposure according to the exposure meter indication, the camera will work as for Daylight synchronization flash or slow, synchronization. In the case of use with SD9, SD10, depending on the ISO setting, shutter speed will change to slow shutter speed side. For more detailed information, please refer to Exposure Mode selection.
LIMITS OF CONTINUOUS SHOOTING
To prevent overheating of the flashs circuitry, please do not use your Flash unit for at least 10minutes after using the number of flash exposures, shown in the below table have been made in quick succession.
Mode TTL, M(1/1,1/2) M(1/4, 1/8) M(1/16-1/32) Multi Number of Flash Exposures 15 Continuous Flash Shots 20 Continuous Flash Shots 40 Continuous Flash Shots 10 Cycle

MANUAL FLASH OPERATION

Manual flash provides adjustment of desired flash intensity (flash output level). The shooting in Manual Mode requires a very advanced technique. We recommend you use the Auto mode. When using Manual Flash photography, first take some test shots. It will be beneficial to use a flash meter device for determining the exposure. Flash intensity of left and right tubes can be set between 1/1~1/64. It is also possible to set without firing one of them. 1. Set the cameras exposure mode to M. 2. Press the MODE button on the flash unit to select M. 3. Press the SEL button. (The flash intensity display of the left flashtube blinks). 4. Press the + or - button to set the left flashtube output level. (If -- is displayed, the left flashtube will not fire). 5. Press the SEL button. (The flash intensity display of right flashtube will blink). 6. Press the + or - button to set the right flashtube output level. (If -- is displayed, the right flashtube will not fire). 7. Press the SEL button to stop the indicator blinking. If the flash output level values of both tubes are the same, the flash output level will be displayed. When the different flash intensity is set, the flash output level will not be displayed on the LCD. Regarding Guide Number, please refer to the [Table.1] on the last page. You can calculate the correct exposure by using the following formula: Guide Number GN / Flash to Subject Distance = F-stop

FP FLASH (Except SA-300)

When you take a picture with an ordinary flash, you cannot use a shutter speed faster than the cameras synchronized speed because the flash must fire when the shutter curtain is fully open. The FP flash keeps firing, while the shutter curtain is running. Thus you can use a shutter speed faster than the synchronized speed. 1. Set the cameras exposure mode to M mode. 2. Press the MODE button on the flash unit, to select the M. 3. Press the + or button and make the indicate indicator appear on the LCD panel. 4. Set the shutter speed. 5. Focus on the subject
6. Please use the Guide Number value given on the table 2 (last page of this instruction manual) for calculating the F-number that must be set on the camera. Guide Number GN / Flash to Subject Distance = F-stop 7. When the Ready Light of the flash is illuminated, the unit is ready for use. If you want to cancel the FP Flash mode, please follow the FP flash procedure to make the indicator display from the LCD panel.
SECOND CURTAIN SYNCHRONIZATION
When you photograph a moving subject with slow synchronization, usually the furrow of the subject will be exposed in front of the subject. The ordinary flash light will fire when the first shutter curtain is fully opened, thus the subject will be exposed from the time flash is fired to the time the shutter is closed (This is called First Curtain Synchronization). When you use second curtain synchronization, the flash will fire just before the second curtain begins to closes, and the subject will be exposed by ambient light from the time the shutter opens until the flash fires. The furrow of the subject will therefore be exposed behind the subject, creating a more natural effect. 1. Set the desired picture-taking mode of the camera 2. Select the Mode of the flash. (TTL, M modes. SD9 and SD10 can be used in M mode only) 3. Press + or , button mark will be displayed on the LCD panel. 4. Adjust the focus, and take the picture after confirming the ready light is lit. First curtain synchronization will be set, if mark is not displayed. In the Full Auto Mode of SA-300, SA-300N, SA-5 cameras, this function cannot be used. To cancel second curtain synchronization, turn off the mark on the LCD panel.

MODELING FLASH

If you use the Modeling flash, you can check the lighting and shadow effects, before you take the picture. 1. Press the MODE button and select the mode. 2. Press the + button or button several times to make the icon on the LCD panel appear. 3. Confirm that the flash is charged, then press the TEST button to fire.

EXPOSURE COMPENSATION

You can use flash exposure compensation in combination with normal exposure compensation (to control the background exposure level) in flash picture. Flash exposure compensation can be set 1/2 stops (1/3 stops with SD10) in 3-stop increments. 1. Press the MODE button and select the TTL mode. 2. Press the SEL button to make the indicator of mark blink. 3. Press the + button or button to set the compensation amount. 4. Press the SEL button to make compensation amount indicator stop blinking. 5. Focus on the subject. 6. You can take the picture after confirming that the Ready Light of the flash is illuminated. When you set the exposure compensation on the camera, both the flash power level and background can be compensated. You can use both exposure compensation by flash, and exposure compensation by camera at the same time.

MULTI FLASH MODE

While the shutter is open, the flash will fire repeatedly. By doing so a series of images of the subject will be exposed in one frame. A dark background with a bright subject shows more effectively in this mode. It is possible to set the firing frequency between 1Hz and 199Hz. Up to 90 flashes can be fired continuously. The maximum number of flashes varies, depending on the flash guide number and firing frequency settings. (Please refer to table3 on the last page). 1. Set the cameras exposure mode to M mode, and set the F number 2. Press the MODE button until the Multi-flash mode appears 3. Press the SEL button until the flash firing frequency starts to blink. 4. Press the + or - button to set the desired flash frequency value. 5. After pressing the SEL button again, the flash power level will blink. 6. Press the + or - button to set the desired power level. 7. Press the SEL button again, the number of flashes will blink. 8. Press the + or - button to set the desired number of flashes. 9. Press the SEL button again, the display will stop blinking. 10. When the ready light of the flash is illuminated, the unit is ready to use. Note: Please set the shutter speed longer than; Number of Flashes you want

Firing Frequency

WIRELESS FLASH

(SD10 ONLY)

It is possible to use Wireless Flash photography if this flash unit is used as a master flash and the EF-500 DG SUPER SA-STTL (SA-N) as slave light source. Master unit (EM-140 DG) fires just for controlling the Slave unit, and does not influence photography.
Control System Change (EF-500 DG SUPER SA-STTL (SA-N))
1. Attach the flashgun to the camera and turn on the power switch of the flashgun and camera. 2. Press the shutter button of camera halfway. (The camera and flashgun communicate and control system will be switched automatically.) 3. Turn off the power switch of the flashgun and camera. Slave unit Setting (EF-500 DG SUPER SA-STTL (SA-N)) 1. Press the MODE button to select. 2. Press SEL button, to make the channel indicator blink, on the display. 3. Press + or button to set the desired channel number. 4. Press the SEL button several times until the indicator stops blinking. 5. Place the Slave unit at the desired position. Master unit Setting (EM-140 DG) 6. Attach the flash unit to the camera. 7. Press the MODE button to select mark. 8. Press SEL button, to make the channel indicator blink on the display. 9. Press + or button to choose the same channel number as set on the Slave unit. 10. Press the SEL button several times until the display stops blinking. 11. Check that both flashes are fully charged. Ready light lamp will light, and the AF Auxiliary lamp will blink to indicate that the flash is ready for shooting. 12. Adjust the focus on the subject, and take the picture.

DESIGNATED SLAVE FLASH

It is possible to use designated slave flash function if this flash unit is used as a master flash and the EF-500 DG SUPER SA-STTL(SA-N) as slave light source. The Slave Controller unit (EM-140) functions only to control the slave unit. Setting the Slave Flash unit(s) for firing (EF-500) 1. Attach the firing flash unit to the camera body. 2. Set the cameras exposure mode to S or M mode. Then set the shutter speed to 1/30 or slower. The slave Controller will transmit the designated signal before the others fire. Thus if you use a shutter speed faster than 1/30, the firing flash units will not be synchronized. 3. Switch ON the flash unit, and press the cameras shutter button halfway. Now, aperture value and film speed are automatically transmitted to the slave flash unit. 4. Remove the slave flash unit from camera. 5. Press the MODE button and select the /. (Slave Mode) 6. Press the SEL button to make the channel display indicator blink. 7. Press the + button or button to set the channel number. (C1 or C2) 8. Press the SEL button to make the output amount ( ) display indicator of flash blink. 9. Press the + button or button to set the flash output amount. Set the flash power by setting the distance indicator on the LCD panel to coincide as closely as possible with the actual distance from the slave flash to the subject. If the actual distance is out of range, you need to change the aperture value. 10. Press the SEL button several times to make the display stop blinking. 11. Place the slave unit in the desired location. Do not place the slave unit within the picture area. Setting for Slave Controller unit (EM-140 DG) 12. Attach the Slave Controller flash unit to the camera body. 13. Press the MODE button and select the / (Slave Mode). 14. Press the SEL button to make the channel display indicator blink. 15. Press the + button or button to set the same channel number as that set on the firing flash unit. 16. Press the SEL button to make the display stop blinking. 17. After you confirm that all flash units are fully charged, press the shutter button to take the picture. When the firing flash unit of EF-500 DG SUPER SA-N is fully charged, the AF Auxiliary Light will blink.

SPECIFICATIONS

Guide Number : 14 ISO 100/m (when the flash is fired at full power) Power Source : AA Alkaline Battery or AA NiCd Battery or AA Ni-Mh Battery x 4pcs Recycling Time : about 6.0 sec. (Alkaline batteries) : about 4.0 sec. (Ni-Cd, Ni-MH Nickel-Metal Hydride) Angle of Coverage : Vertical / Horizontal 80 degrees Weight : 430g (without batteries) Dimensions (Controller) : 76.7mm136.2mm82.4mm Dimensions (Flash Unit) : 126.6mm128.8mm30.5mm

SIGMA IN THE NEWS

Read what the experts have to say about lenses from the worlds leading independent lens manufacturer

ELECTRONIC Flash Series

FOR CREATIVE TTL PHOTOGRAPHY
A range of dedicated flashguns that light the way to superb indoor and outdoor photography. SIGMA EF-610 DG ST A fully automatic flashgun which includes an auto-zoom bounce, swivel head and a powerful Guide Number of 61. SIGMA EF-610 DG SUPER An equally powerful yet versatile flashgun with advanced features including wireless and high speed flash, exposure control, strobe flash and modelling flash. SIGMA EM-140 DG MACRO FLASH A dual tube macro flash perfect for shadowless, fine detail photography. Flash tubes can be fired together or separately for different lighting effects. All three flashguns are compatible with the latest TTL systems from popular SLR manufacturers.
For further information, visit your nearest Sigma stockist or contact us at Sigma Imaging (UK) Ltd. 13 Little Mundells, Welwyn Garden City, Herts. AL7 1EW Tel: 999 Email: sales@sigma-imaging-uk.com Website: www.sigma-imaging-uk.com

photography is our world

The Sigma Corporation, Japan is the worlds largest independent lens manufacturer. Since it was founded by Michihiro Yamaki in 1961 the corporation has constantly been at the forefront of lens technology. Here in the UK, the photo press soon realised that the name SIGMA was synonymous with build quality and optical excellence. They embraced the output from the new company and put the lenses through rigorous testing both on the workbench and in the field. Time and time again they were amazed at the results and produced reviews that reflected this. It is the complete dedication to design and quality control that sets SIGMA apart from other manufacturers. This is proven by the string of complementary test reports and rave reviews appearing in the photo press on a regular basis culminating in many well deserved awards for excellence. In the following pages we reproduce a selection of quotes taken directly from the UK photo press, published both in magazines and on the web.
As digital cameras become more and more popular, sensor technology inside them gets better and better. Whilst the increased number of pixels benefits print resolution, the overall image definition is not greatly improved unless the lens is capable of resolving the required amount of information onto the sensor. As sensor dimensions decrease, lenses need to focus the same amount of detail onto a smaller area, creating a further need for high resolution lenses. This is where Sigma's DC and DG lenses come into their own. The resolving power is substantial, making them perfectly suited for current and future digital SLR cameras. Sigma have developed a new multi-layer coating to counteract the highly refelective characteristic of image sensors. With older style lenses, light would reflect off the image sensor, bounce off the rear elements of the lens, and re-enter the image sensor, creating a ghost image. The multi-layer coating dramatically reduces this effect. In addition to this, an optimum, neutral colour balance is ensured, increasing the white balance accuracy of the digital camera. F2 Magazine The 70-200mm EX DG produced some of the best digital images we've had out of these two cameras. Tests showed there was no doubt. the new DG is visibly higher in contrast, saturation and resolution than the old design.

THE NEW GENERATION

DC Lenses for digital SLR's A striking feature of Sigma's DC lenses is their compact and lightweight dimension. The photographers dream of high image quality from a compact and lightweight lens is made possible because the image circle is designed specifically to match the APS-C size image sensors of most popular digital SLR cameras. In addition, the advanced aspherical technology and highly efficient design exactly suit the characteristics of digital cameras. DG lenses for both film and digital SLR's The most suitable lenses for 35mm film single-lens reflex cameras, as well as for digital SLR cameras. Sigma's development of the DG (Digital) range of lenses has concentrated on the correction of distortion and aberrations. The optical designs and cutting-edge technology eliminate flare and ghosting from the image sensor and create excellent colour balance. These high performance lenses are equally suited for digital and analogue cameras.

COVER IMAGE BY GECKOPHOTO

4.5mm f/2.8 EX DC HSM

Practical Photography The lens itself feels solid and well made, and the autofocus is fast and quiet. Results are good, with high levels of sharpness at the centre of the frame. A well made specialist optic thats unique in the market place and hard to fault. PhotoPlus Fit one of these to your camera and you get an instant wow-factor just looking through the viewfinder. Autofocus comes courtesy of Sigmas fast and near silent HSM system, which worked flawlessly in our tests. As well as creating a fisheye effect, this lens is also great for use with computer s t i t c h i n g s o f t w a re , s o yo u c a n transform images into navigable virtual reality scenes. And to the best of our knowledge, if you want a circular fisheye for your smaller-sensor camera, this is the only one of the market.

10mm f/2.8 EX DC HSM

FISH EYE LENSES
Digital Photographer Theres clearly a lot of glass and metal crammed into a small volume, but it does feel very wellmade as a result. The focusing is fast and quiet too. It will focus right down to 13.5cm which is an advantage where you want to produce striking perspectives and distorted relationships between nearby objects and their backgrounds. Optically, the performance is very good. PhotoPlus For a non-zoom lens, this is a chunky piece of kit, which is explained not only by the huge lump of optical glass at the front that creates the fisheye effect, but also by its fast f/2.8 maximum aperture.

IMAGE BY ROB FRANKLIN

8mm f/3.5 EX DG
Ephotozine.when using software to create panoramics or for those involved in scientific measurement of angles, where the output from this lens is quantifiable, this lens is an excellent tool. Professional Photographer This lens is built and finished to a very high standard. The optical performance is extraordinary considering the lens delivers circular images. Practical Photography Lenses this short often suffer from flare in the lens elements but we found no such problems with this one, even shooting directly into bright light. Digital SLR User The Sigma 8mm is an excellent fisheye lens. It makes a tempting choice compared to more expensive own brand options. Freelance Photographer This is a lens almost without competition and justifies the EX DG branding.

15mm f/2.8 EX DG

Amateur Photographer Optically the Sigma 15mm f/2.8 tested a nose ahead of the Canon. Outdoor Photography With an impressively close minimum focusing distance of 15cm, this lens allows you to fill the frame with certain subjects. It is also a real go anywhere lens. Its compact dimensions and tough build mean that you will be confident it will stand up to the rigours of shooting in the wilderness. Professional Photographer Overall resolution is excellent. The level of colour saturation and contrast are excellent, whilst chromatic aberration is minimal. Digital SLR User I was reluctant indeed to hand it back and have no hesitation in wholeheartedly recommending it.

FAST PRIME LENSES

30mm f/1.4 EX DC HSM
Ephotozine Sigma, who have grabbed the opportunity of the digital revolution with both hands, need to be congratulated on this one! The picture quality alone, will pay dividends for those of you who purchase this lens. Me? I dont really want to send it back! Digital Photographer Best of all is the sharp resultsthis is the lens that will excel in low light conditions, or for portrait use. The bokeh (how well a lens renders out of focus points of light) is also first rate, leading to nice, evenly blurred backgrounds. Professional Image Maker Gathering another three stops over a typical widerange zoom lens is a significant benefit. If you need a really wide aperture to preserve the atmosphere of a ceremony or to shoot without being detected, this is about the only lens in town.

IMAGE BY ENDHALS

50mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM 20mm f/1.8 EX DG
Amateur Photographer The colour is accurate. the lens holds shadow and highlight detail very well. VERDICT: I am very pleased with the results from the SIGMA 20mm f/1.8 - so much so that I really, really want one. Practical Photography Even though its clearly aimed at digital SLR users, this lens is a welcome addition to the arsenal of lenses available to film users due to its low light capabilities. Digital Camera Buyer The unique selling point of this particular lens is its fast maximum aperture of f/1.8.
WINNER OF: THE EISA LENS AWARD 2001-2002

24mm f/1.8 EX DG

Amateur Photographer The 24mm f/1.8 offers visually outstanding sharpness from corner to corner, especially around the f/8 mark. Vignetting too is undetectable, even when wide open. Colour and contrast are faithfully recorded, with plenty of detail in the highlights and shadow areas.this is a popular focal length and should satisfy many users. Digital photographers will love the useful 36mm comparative focal length. A top-flight optic.

Practical Photography One of the only effective 50mm primes on the market and a great price too theres nothing like it.
WINNER OF: THE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHER LENS OF THE YEAR 2010

28mm f/1.8 EX DG

Amateur Photographer This is a fast and quiet lens in operation, with the extra stop giving a bright, clear viewfinder image for picking out those details, particularly in low light.the vignetting aspect of the lens, even wide open, is astonishing. If you like prime lenses and appreciate the quality, the 28mm f/1.8 is a lens that is seriously worth considering. The near-human-eye viewpoint for the digital SLR user is another bonus that should ensure the optic's success. British Journal of Photography Optical distortion is amazing and shows low barrel distortion for this angle of view.
WINNER OF: THE AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHER LENS OF THE YEAR 2008
British Journal of Photography This lens is the first major redesign of its genre for half a century, and it looks like no other 50mm f/1.4 ever made. At f/1.4 the centre of the image is not only focused perfectly at any distance, its critically sharp, resembling the best results at f/8 from high-end zooms. At full aperture its better than any other previous lens Ive used. you get the first 50mm f/1.4 that is as sharp centrally at f/1.4 on full-frame 24 million pixels as at any other aperture.

85mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM

Professional Image Maker The engineering is the high standard we have come to expect from Sigma. A nice touch is the provision of a deeper lens hood extension for users with APS-C size chips. the narrow zone of an image that is in focus is bitingly sharp. What Digital Camera.this is a very nice lens that offers a bright viewfinder and excellent image quality. Ephotozine Sigma have created a real gem. an excellent value lens, more than capable of producing superb results.
IMAGE BY BOB MARTIN, PRACTICAL PHOTOGRAPHY/BAUER MEDIA

50mm f/2.8 EX DG

British Journal of Photography.In the case of Sigma, Canon and Konica Minolta mounts, there is an unusually small minimum aperture of f/45 (f/32 for Nikon and Pentax). This can provide beautiful effects with some shots and Sigma is to be applauded for providing this option. Both lenses produced excellent results, with fine detail and smooth tone gradation over a range of magnifications. Photography Monthly Although its designed for use on full frame cameras, its equally at home on models with an APS-C sized sensor. Digital Photographer But now for the winner the Sigma excels in our view, as it is a true macro lens in every sense of the word. We love its brilliant magnification, really enabling you to pick up great texture and contrast in the smallest of subjects. If youre after a decent macro performer, then this is a must for anyone looking to get closer than close. Amateur Photographer The most noticeable feature is its excellent, virtually perfect drawing that is, the absence of curvilinear distortion. Combined with low spherical aberration, it means there is good definition at full aperture with high resolution across the frame.

70mm f/2.8 EX DG

Practical Photography Our test charts reveal that it will produce a high level of sharpness across the frame. If you are thinking of investing in a macro lens for general-purpose use, this would certainly be a good choice. What Digital Camera Image quality from the lens is great. Its as sharp as a knife, with excellent contrast and resolution. Sigmas optics rarely fail to impress. Professional Photographer At larger apertures the in-focus parts of the picture are so sharp you need gloves to handle them, while the out of focus parts are soft and smooth. In fact, the Sigma continues to impress even wide open at f/2.8, where it performs superbly as a portrait lens. WINNER OF: EISA & TIPA LENS AWARDS 2007-2008 British Journal of Photography At this price, and with such a high level of performance, the 70mm Macro, which is available in Nikon, Canon, Sony, Pentax and Sigma mounts, is little short of remarkable. Photography Monthly With razor sharp, wide-open images, this is possibly the best of Sigmas highly rated macro lenses. Suitable for full frame and 35mm cameras, we think this lens will find a home in many photographers bags.

MACRO LENSES

150mm f/2.8 EX DG HSM
Amateur Photographer With regards to controlling distortion, the Sigma 150mm is clearly a first-class optic. F2 Magazine The Sigma 150mm f/2.8 Macro was, quite simply, excellent on full frame digital, excellent on full frame film, and stunning on APS-C sensor digital. Professional Image Maker The performance of the Sigma was essentially flawless this is a lens you can trust to do any job. Digital SLR Photography Image quality is superb, with bitingly sharp results throughout the aperture range. Ephotozine A well made and thought out macro lens with enough focal length to enable skittish insect photography without putting them to flight. Good balance on the excellent tripod collar makes for easy tripod work. Which Digital Camera Focusing is internal so the lens doesnt change size as you focus closer. AF is smooth and almost silent, thanks to Sigmas Hypersonic Motor, and a 3 position focus limiter stops the lens hunting through its full range. PhotoPlus Handling the sublime, with wonderfully smooth manual focusing to complement the Sigmas dead-on autofocus accuracy. Best of all, the optical quality is absolutely top drawer, combining razor sharpness with glorious colour performance and bags of contrast.

105mm f/2.8 EX DG

Practical Photography Available in Four Thirds mount too, the Sigma is the only macro lens available for every D-SLR owner. British Journal of Photography Although diffraction reduces resolution at such settings - f/45 becomes an effective f/90 at 1x magnification, approaching pinhole dimensions - this can provide beautiful effects with some shots and Sigma is to be applauded for providing this option. Digital Camera The Sigma in particular produced razor-sharp images at close quarters. What Digital Camera Where the Sigma 105mm optic performs well is in its control of chromatic aberration. Which Digital Camera A superb lens thats excellent value for what you get. This lens will deliver to even the most critical users. Photography Monthly Its a real cracker and its showing even at f/45 is impressive.

IMAGE BY ROSS HODDINOTT

TELEPHOTO LENSES

300mm f/2.8 EX DG HSM

Digital SLR User Being part of Sigmas EX range, the lens is designed to withstand the rigours of professional use, and the build quality is certainly very impressive. The focus ring is one of the best I have used. Photography Monthly Excellent flat-line performance is what we would expect from a prime lens and this 300mm is no disappointment. A serious contender up against its marque rivals. PhotoPlus It looks and feels beautifully made and is fantastically fast and quiet when focusing. My pictures really proved the advantage of the super fast f/2.8 maximum aperture.

800mm f/5.6 EX DG HSM

Practical Photography The hypersonic motor focusing is great really smooth, fast and quiet. If you need top level performance and long focal length then this is the lens for you. PhotoPlus With an HSM autofocus system, focusing proved extremely quiet and almost as fast as the Canon 500mm in out tests, and the lens features the same full-time manual override capability. Another neat inclusion is a drop-in filter holder at the rear of the lens for fitting specialist filters. This is useful because the diameter of the front elements of super-telephoto lenses are far too large for frontmounting filters to be practical. Optical performance is extremely good all round.

500mm f/4.5 EX DG HSM

Ephotozine Overall this lens performs extremely well and produces some excellent shotsif you have a genuine need for this type of lens, you wont be disappointed. Outdoor Photography First impressions of the lens were good: it has a compact solid feel, its well designed, nice to hold, sturdily constructed, and yet fairly lightweight. The lens features a Hypersonic Motor (HSM) and I can confirm that it worked as described it was very fast and very quiet. Colour rendition, contrast and sharpness were all excellent. When you consider its around 2,000 cheaper than similar named models it is a serious contender.

IMAGE BY DARREN BAKER

WIDE ANGLE ZOOM LENSES

IMAGE BY KWEST

Sigma 8-16mm f/4.5-5.6 DC HSM
What Digital Camera Sharpness at the 8mm setting is excellent right across the aperture range. WINNER OF: PLUS X LENS OF THE YEAR AWARD 2010 Practical Photography.despite being so wide, distortion is minimal. This lens is really about fun and taking advantage of the 24cm minimum focusing distance to get in close to subjects for extreme effects. Master Photo Digital For room interiors, you simply can not include all four walls unless your lens covers more than horizontally. This Sigma covers slightly over which makes it one of the best working tools for interior and architectural photography. British Journal of Photography Sigma once again creates a design that exceeds all the ambitions of every camera maker. It ranks alongside Thomas Suttons wide angle lens of 1859, or the Zeiss Hologon 15mm f/8 for Leica, of 1972.

Sigma 10-20mm f/4-5.6 EX DC HSM
Ephotozine This lens is sharp! At 20mm, resolution tests showed it matched, and at one point even slightly out performed the venerable Canon 17-40mm L. The performance is excellent and the size and weight is little more than a standard. With the wide field of view that this lens gives the digital SLR owners that require panoramic style angles, this lens is an answer to their prayers. WINNER OF: THE TIPA LENS AWARD 2006 Digital Photo If youre looking for a good value wide-angle lens, this one is hard to fault. The Sigma 10-20mm offers a superb combination of focal length, quality and affordability the very things that are worthy of a Gold Award. Amateur Photographer First impressions are always important when testing lenses as the images came up on screen the sense was of excellent resolution/contrast the detail glittered.
The Photographer The build quality of this lens is quite superb.the extreme wide-angles of this 10-20mm zoom produce breathtaking effects which will certainly inspire and extend your photographic creativity.
12-24mm f/4.5-5.6 EX DG HSM
Amateur Photographer.a very high-quality lens that has been corrected to exceptional standards. Practical Photography.this Sigma lens is the most versatile lens on the test and really looks like an impressive piece of pro gear too. WINNER OF: THE EISA LENS AWARD 2004-5 and AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHER LENS OF THE YEAR 2005 The Photographer I have a Sigma 12-24mm full-frame EX DG HSM zoom on the 1Ds MkII and I have never seen anything like it in my life. Curvature at the edges is virtually non-existent. Digital Photographer.it is an amazing piece of optical engineering. The results are truly remarkable given the amount of correction needed. Photoworld After returning from this shoot, the quality from the 12-24mm blew me away.
Sigma 10-20mm f/3.5 EX DC HSM
Photoworld The geometry of the lens is very good across the full range from 10 20mm. The HSM focusing is wonderful and seems to give much finer settings with wide-angle lenses than screw focus. The lens itself is superbly built What Digital Camera About a year ago, when Sigmas variable aperture (f/45.6) 10-20mm zoom was tested, a doubt was expressed about whether the then-forthcoming f/3.5 lens would be much better optically. The answer is a definite yes: the latest version has stunning resolution and performs brilliantly in real-world use. In short, this is an absolute gem that deserves a place on every photographers wish-list.

IMAGE BY THOM JONES

HYPERZOOM LENSES
18-125mm f/3.8-5.6 DC OS HSM
PhotoPlus You still get a respectable 200mm effective focal length at the telephoto end and there are some big attractions, including Sigmas fast and near-silent HSM autofocus system, which proved deadly accurate in our tests, wrapped in a compact and lightweight package of very good build quality. Other plus points include excellent sharpness and contrast, the lens producing punchy image quality throughout the zoom range, even at is largest apertures, while distortions are less noticeable than with most other lenses on test. Digital Camera The Sigma 18-125mm is wonderfully compact, and at just 240 its also the cheapest lens in the group. Along with a very high standard of finish, the lens features Sigmas latest four-stop OS (Optical Stabiliser) system, which works a treat, as well as super-quiet and reasonably rapid HSM (Hypersonic Motor) auto focus. Theres a lot to love here. Unless you really need the extra telephoto reach offered by the bigger lenses in the group, the Sigma 18-125mm makes an excellent choice for a wide range of camera makes and models. Verdict A highly accomplished lens in all respects.

18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC

Ephotozine Being designed for cropped sensors only, the lens is light in weight and, being compact as well, can easily be carried on the camera all day as a walkabout lens. Outdoor Photography.the lens boasts an impressive 11x zoom ratio covering wideangle through to medium telephoto and has been awarded the EISA European lens of the year 2005-2006. it focuses down to 45cm at all focal lengths with a maximum magnification of 1:4.4. This is useful for close-up work of subjects such as flowerheads or dragonflies as well as producing dynamic wideangle images with bags of impact. Photography Monthly Typically Sigma, this lens is attractively finished and handles well. All in all, this is a nice lens that performs respectably. Camera Labs Delivering a focal range equivalent to 27-300mm, the Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC is a highly versatile lens. Its massive 11.1x zoom range allows you to capture both wide landscape shots and decent close-ups of distant subjects such as wildlife without worrying about carrying additional lenses. Digital SLR User this is a quality lens for the price tag and is definitely worth a look. What Digital Camera This lens does a great job at controlling chromatic aberrations at 200mm, with a blinding result at the centre and above average in the corner. WINNER OF: THE EISA LENS AWARD 2005-06

18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS

Photography Monthly As focal lengths increase, so the chance of camera shake increases. Having a stabilisation system fitted in the lens gives a much greater working window for that lens, and this is very much the case here. We managed to take sharp images at 1/3sec at 200mm, which equates to a shutter speed four stops slower than would normally be advised. A significant help then! What Digital Camera Its outstanding characteristic is the Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM), which performs marginally faster and quieter than the more expensive Nikon. Its well-built optic with a solid feel and robust grips. This stabilised version with the most elements of the group is a stunner. The lens offers the highest resolution of any here. Digital Photo It works a treat, with sharp shots achievable at 1/15sec at 200mm. Snatching the Digital Photo Gold Award is the Sigma 18-200mm DC OS. Optically, this was the best lens we tested, just nudging ahead of the Canon and Nikon 18-200mm models.
18-250mm f/3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM
F2 Magazine.It is far better than my Sony 18-250mm, or the Tamron 18-250mm which preceded that. Distortion is extremely low for such a long range and, even at 250mm, full aperture sharpness is retained well. Overall, it proved a better lens than any other such design I've used. Photography Monthly - July 2009 Tamrons record breaking 18-270mm will deliver a good set of images but I did find the focusing to be less assured, the zoom mechanism to lack the solidality and smoothness of the Sigma and crucially, the optical quality to be marginally less impressive than the Sigmas. The Sigma 18-250mm, then, is our Superzoom winner. WINNER OF: THE TIPA LENS AWARD 2009 and the PLUS X AWARD FOR INNOVATION

IMAGE BY PETER GIBBONS

TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENSES

IMAGE BY PETER CHISOLM

50-200mm f/4-5.6 DC OS HSM
Digital Photo Unpack the Sigma DC 50-200mm f/4-5.6 HSM lens and the first thing that strikesyou is the refined finish and build quality. Boasting the top notch black mattfinish were accustomed to seeing Sigma EX pro range of lenses, allied with a smooth action to both the zoom and focus rings, the Sigma DC 50-200mm is a solid lens. Practical Photography This 50-200mm from Sigma delivers a 35mm equivalent zoom of 75-300 on 1.5xcrop or 80-320mm on a 1.6x crop. It incorporates the Sigma optical stabiliser that does a fantastic job of controlling the shakes at longer zoom ranges. You also benefit from the HSM motor technology that provides fast focusing. For 300 this is a great little lens that produces good quality images.

70-300mm f/4-5.6 DG MACRO
Digital Photo Impressive results that are close to those of the APO version. Theres a good level of sharpness throughout. This is a well-built lens and great value for the price. Photography Monthly Often dismissed in favour of its slightly more expensive APO brother, this lens is a capable performer for those on a tight budget or those just dipping their toes in the SLR water.
Practical Photography With a better build quality and great results it proves itself to be a formidable lens and therefore earns our Best Buy award.

70-300mm f/4-5.6 DG OS

Photoworld I have never had sharper pictures from any telephoto in this range, even at the long end it delivers fine detail wide open. The stabilisation is superb, and the optical quality as seen from my Alpha 900 is better than my Sony 70-300mm f4.5-5.6 G SSM. F2 Magazine First, let me say this lens is one of the best 70-300mms Ive used, a match for the Nikon 70300mm or the Sony 70-300mm G. Practical Photography.it is the cheapest full-frame stabilised lens by around 100. If you need a lightweight performer with the reassurance of stabilisation system, then this lens offers unbeatable value.
70-300mm f/4-5.6 APO DG MACRO
Digital Camera Shopper The auto focus mechanism itself is impressively quick in normal operation. Impressive sharpness throughout the zoom range and speedy autofocus make this a very attractive lens at the price. What Digital Camera At 300mm, the central control is as good as that of the Nikon and Olympus models.
FAST TELEPHOTO ZOOM LENSES
70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG Macro HSM II
Digital Photo It has a very good minimum focus distance of only 100cm through the entire zoom range, allowing plenty of scope for close-up photography and a maximum reproduction of 1:3.5. It's a really well made lens and gives its more expensive rivals a good run for their money. Digital Photography Review The near-silent hypersonic motor delivers fast, accurate and consistent autofocus.and feels no less speedy or responsive than Canon or Nikon systems.
70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM
Amateur Photographer Matching the Canon for specification, Sigma offer a constant f/2.8 telephoto zoom lens at a lower price. Zooming is smooth across the span. This is a first class modern lens that is easy for the action and sports photographer to use. Digital Photography Review It tends to be very sharp in the center of the frame even wide open giving truly excellent results across the frame by F5.6 - F8. Of particular note is the almost complete lack of chromatic aberration, which presumably is due to the use of the latest 'FLD' glass in the lens's construction. The resultant absence of color fringing is important as it means the images look extremely clean right across the frame, and this has a strong positive impact on the overall perceived image quality. Sigma has clearly been working hard in the lens's stabilization and focusing systems, and we found that both performed extremely well. Ephotozine During testing this Sigma lens has proved itself quite capable of producing excellent results. At f/2.8 the resolution in the centre is already very good Here the sharpness across the frame is excellent. Sigma's optical stabiliser is certainly capable and is about as effective as the system found in marque lenses. This adds to the feeling of good value this lens provides, especially as it's around 400 cheaper than the marque competition.

British Journal of Photography Sigma is not so much a cost-competitive brand as one that delivers innovative products and professional performance at a very affordable price. Overall, the 300-800mm zoom works brilliantly and captures some very eye-catching images. At 5,000 it isnt cheap, but it is a lot less costly than some of its potential rivals. More importantly, it is a very versatile and superbly built lens that, for the right users, will surely justify every penny of its price.

DIGITAL SLR SYSTEM

SIGMA SD15
Outdoor Photography I opened the smart black box containing the SD15 with anticipation; I was feeling so eager because pictures I have taken with the special X3 Foveon sensor while reviewing Sigma's similarly equipped DP1 and DP2 cameras, are the shots I keep returning to and thinking, yes, there is definitely something a bit special here. This is a handsome, no nonsense looking camera and its well put together. The grip is deep and extremely comfortable, while build quality, fit and finish are all first class. Black and White Photography In practice, I have found that the Foveon does indeed provide exceptional per pixel sharpness and colour accuracy that really helps give images a depth that is unique in the digital arena. I can honestly say that the SD15 is the most intuitively straightforward camera I have used in a long time. There are no frills. yet somehow the camera is all the better for it. Digital Camera If you havent seen what the Foveon sensor can do, youll be amazed at the clarity of the fine detail it produces. Each pixel is razor sharp. The 17-70mm Sigma lens supplied for this review proved rather good, too. Digital Camera Essentials Sigmas ace-in-the-hand is a triple-layered 14megapixel Foveon CMOS sensor. Many shots displayed a painterly look that can be attractive, given the correct subject.

DIGITAL COMPACTS

SIGMA DP1x
Trusted Reviews The DP1x is technically an advanced compact, since it has a full range of manual exposure controls, a flash hot-shoe and can shoot in Raw modeThe DP1x has an all-metal body and does feel quite sturdy Sigma's big claim about the Foveon sensor is that it produces better colour depth and sharper detail than an equivalent conventional Bayer-mask sensor. This is certainly true; there's no question that it produces vastly superior image quality to a conventional sensor. Looking at the sample images from the DP1x it's easy to be impressed by the sharp detail and excellent colour depth on a computer monitor

SIGMA DP2s

Trusted Reviews At 50-200 ISO it produces a level of detail, dynamic range and colour depth that easily surpasses any other compact on the market, and even puts some mid-range DSLRs to shame. There is no trace of image noise at 200 ISO, and even at 400 and the maximum 800 ISO noise is slight, even and grain-like. The lens too is superb, with brilliant corner-to-corner sharpness. The control over depth of field provided by the wide maximum aperture and large sensor allow real creative control for portrait shots. Digital Camera Essentials The special thing about the Sigma DP2s is its sensor size. At roughly the same measurements as a DSLR, it is capable of taking some excellent images.
If you havent seen what the Foveon sensor can do, youll be amazed at the clarity. DIGITAL CAMERA