You bought a 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM with a Canon mount but you wanted to move on and take advantage of the newest Nikon DSLR? Well, OK. you just have to send back the lens to Sigma to have it refitted at the Sigma USA service center into a Nikon-mount version of the same lens. No need to sell all your lenses on eBay when switching brands.

Prices: between $80/100€ (for a DN lens for hybrid cameras) and $250/325€ (for a 120-300mm f/2,8 “Sport”). [source DPreview].

This is a true world-wide premiere but the surprise is less in the technology than in the announcement process: Nothing filtered out on any Internet web site until the very last hours. Nevertheless, it certainly took more than a year for Sigma to organize this conversion service and to present the seven first lenses covered by it.

Here, I find to refreshing lessons:

1. Even a company like Sigma which is not considered as paranoid can perfectly hide such a ground-breaking strategy, including when the actual products which it is based upon are on the shelves already (the first lenses have been announced without uncovering one of their most significant features in the interest of preserving the surprise expected from the conversion service announcement itself). Kudos to Sigma!
2. This aptitude to master the communication for a photo equipment manufacturer leads me to openly ask the question of the operation of those Internet web sites that make all their business out of publishing (actively and continuously) rumors on the web. Where are their informations coming from? Comparable experience from other industry sectors (i.e. automobile) shows that there are two sources: On the one hand, small-time attention-seekers basing their “leaks” on probable or predictable informations (intelligent analysis easily leads to reliable but unoriginal data) ; On the other hand, brands and manufacturers embed these web sites into their marketing strategies and distill data according to plans and schedules they define.

We keep reading these rumor sites. The newspapers also submit themselves to the tyranny of more or less organized leaks. But we must remember that despite the continuous efforts to appear independent, professional and objective, the information there is either unfounded or mostly directed by the brands (rumor? disinformation? leaks? No! Marketing).

• Dust-proof and splash-proof construction
• High image quality close to fixed focal length lens
• Focus limiter button (to speed AF up)

Sigma also disclosed that they want this lens to be the first in a long (and new) line of “sports-oriented” lenses (read: lens line of big focal lengths, and possibly relatively inexpensive… for long lenses).

So, we will have to wait until we can see if these features are accompanied with excellent optical quality (or not) for this Sigma new 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM lens.

It may seem still too high, but it is in direct relation with the reality of the market for a rather exceptional digital sensor.

The only difference is that Sigma re-brands the camera as SD1 Merrill (adding the name of the inventor of the Foveon sensor included in the camera).

When your product does not meet its market, if you are marketing manager, you need ideas. That is the reason why, at Sigma, people are looking for original ideas. And the marketing department just thought about marquetry. Or about wood to elegantly (?) wrap the most expensive photo camera of the Sigma range.

If we look at the photos illustrating this post, you’ll notice two things:

1. This is not really a light and discreet upgrade; Some will deny it the adjective of elegant…
2. This is not perfectly done: You can see quite well that it was only an after-thought.

Good luck to Sigma for the SD1, but this version including only 10 samples, they can count on some collection maniacs to buy them, can’t they?

• Its availability date: early June
• Its MSRP price: $9,700 or 7,000€ or £6,199.99 (inc VAT)

Even thinking that the SD1 is competing with medium format photo cameras, the 46 MP DSLR will be out of reach for nearly everybody. This is about the same price as for the Pentax 645D, but without the aura of the Pentax, without the extremely comfortable feel of a real medium format photo camera like the 645D.

And remember that the 46 Mega-pixels are actually 3 layers of color 15 MP Foveon-stacked, which still have to demonstrate that they are perfectly on par with a more usual Bayer sensor organization. Not that one is inherently better than the other, but when you are the challenger, you’d better bring some more arguments to the benchmark to topple the already existing top competitor.

Some differences that may make the difference:

Once I exploded on this announcement, I must admit that there is a good better explanation than a death wish. Sigma is facing a very difficult battle. Probably, they know that they can no longer compete with Nikon, Canon, Pentax or Sony on the usual DSLR market as they tried before. So, the only way to sell the Sigma SD1 is to push for higher prices (and higher margins) trying to make the best of their existing technology. But the Foveon technology did not prove that it was so advanced it could justify most of what Sigma is trying to sell it for. We’ll see…

It is unclear what the precise impacts are going to be. According to very short comments from the Sigma France team, it seems that the logistics and supply issues are going to be the most significant to handle.

No comment at all about the Sigma SD1 but the camera does not seem to be more in trouble than since its official launch.

• 120-300mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM: $4700
• Macro 150mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM: $1600

One SLD and two FLD glass elements, to reduce chromatic aberrations. The Super Multi-Layer Coating treatment to reduce unwanted reflexions and lens flare. 9 rounded blade diaphragm. AF driven by an HSM motor. Sigma did not leave any available technology out. They seem to be intent on making an excellent lens.

The result will have to be checked and compared with the undisclosed 3200€ price. Sigma is capable of the best or the less than best depending on the balance chosen by the Marketing Department. But it seems already going in the right direction.

• Sigma 12-24mm f/4-5.6 EX DG HSM II is a new improved version of its widest zoom lens
• Sigma Macro 105mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM is both stabilized and Macro 1:1
• Sigma 50-150mm f/2.8 EX DC APO OS HSM is designed to replace the usual 70-200mm f/2.8 on an APS-C digital sensor

Here is very good news for the Sony customers. But it’s even better when we read the list of names that Sony immediately provided: Lens manufacturers having already expressed their interest in designing lenses for the E-mount:

• Zeiss, traditional ally of Sony around the A-mount of Alpha SLR cameras.
• Tamron, old friend of the orange house, and partner back in the Minolta times.
• Cosina, owner of the very elitist Voigtländer brand.
• Sigma, manufacturer of the broadest range of compatible lenses.

Assuredly, this type of talks is usually very discreet. Here, Sony decided to strike our imaginations in one big marketing blow, demonstrating their clear intent to develop the NEX range of hybrid mirror-less cameras in the best conditions for a long life. The message has been received loud and clear.

Sigma surprised nearly everybody when they announced the Sigma SD1 camera, a few hours in the Photokina show. This is a high-end DSLR photo camera for the enthusiast or the (nearly) pro photog. One of the most prominent features of the Sigma cameras is the famous Foveon X3 digital sensor where the color pixels are stacked one on top of the other rather than being aligned side-by-side in the traditional Bayer matrix design.

The Sigma SD1 will have a sensor with 15.4 million locations representing 46 million color pixels (3 stacks of 15 million pixels).

DPreview has a good presentation of this technology written in cooperation with Sigma: Sigma and Foveon discuss the forthcoming SD1.

By WhatDigitalCamera.com

Important features:

• The Sigma SD1 will use the new (future?) 48 MP Foveon sensor
• It will include an anti-dust filter closing completely the mirror cage
• 3″ LCD screen with 420.000 pixels
• 11-point AF system
• Optical viewfinder with 98% coverage
• Most of the body structure comes from a large magnesium allow skeleton with a lens plate in steel

Important missing feature: No video on the list!

It comes with some lenses and a flash:

• Sigma 150mm F2.8 Macro lens
• Sigma 120-300mm F2.8 lens
• Sigma EF-610 DG flash

Press Release

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the new SIGMA SD1 Digital SLR Camera, incorporating a 46 megapixel (4,800×3,200×3 layers) 24×16mm APS-C X3 direct image sensor.

The SIGMA SD1 is Sigma’s flagship digital SLR model, adopting a lightweight yet solid magnesium alloy for its body and O-ring sealing connections to make a weather-resistant design throughout for use in harsh conditions.

The SIGMA SD1 incorporates a 24×16mm APS-C X3 direct image sensor and dual “TRUE (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine) II ”image processing engines. The combination of the 46 megapixel (4,800×3,200×3 layers) sensor and dual TRUE II processing engines ensure the high resolution images are processed quickly with high definition and a smooth and subtle graduation of color.

The SD1 is SIGMA’s latest digital SLR camera which meets high requirements of professional and enthusiast photographers for all types of photography.

This product is showcased at Photokina 2010 in Koln, Germany.

SIGMA SD1 Product Summary

46 megapixel 24×16mm APS-C X3 Full-color image sensor
The 46 megapixel (4,800×3,200×3 layers) 24×16mm APS-C X3 direct image sensor featured in the Sigma SD1 captures all primary RGB colors at each and every pixel location, ensuring the capture of full and complete color. Using three silicon-embedded layers of photo detectors, stacked vertically to take advantage of silicon’s ability to absorb red, green and blue light at different respective depths, it efficiently reproduces color more accurately, and offers sharper resolution, pixel for pixel, than any conventional image sensor. Since color moire is not generated, the use of a low-pass filter is not required, meaning light and color, generated by the 46 megapixel APS-C X3 direct image sensor is captured with a three-dimensional feel.

Dual TRUE II image processing engine
The SD1 incorporates a dual “TRUE (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine) II” image processing engine which improves the processing speed and overall quality of the final image. The unique image-processing algorithm provides high resolution power and reproduces high definition images with richly graduated tones.

CF card
The SD1 adopts the TYPE I CF Card. This camera is compatible with the UDMA enabling fast processing of large amounts of data.
* It is not possible to use Microdrives and TYPE II CF cards.

11 point twin cross sensor
The autofocus system features an 11 point twin cross sensor. The shifted twin cross type sensor improves AF accuracy.

Magnesium body
The Sigma SD1 adopts a lightweight yet solid magnesium alloy body designed to withstand rough use and shocks in harsh conditions.

Weather-resistant design
Buttons and connections benefit from O-ring sealing connections to prevent dust and water getting inside the camera body.

Large, highly visible 3.0” TFT color LCD Monitor
The SD1 camera features a 3.0 inch TFT color monitor. This 460,000 pixel resolution LCD monitor benefits from a wide viewing angle, making it easy to check focusing and composition.

Optional lenses
The SD1 can be used with over 40 Sigma lenses such as ultra-wide, ultra-telephoto, macro and fisheyes which adopt the latest technology such as the FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass elements, which have the performance equal to fluorite glass, SLD glass, Aspherical lenses, Sigma’s own unique Optical Stabilizer function, Hyper Sonic Motor and Sigma’s Super Multi Layer Coating. They meet the various and demanding requirements of all types of photographers.

• Canon EOS 60Dli>
• Nikon D3100
• Nikon D7000
• Olympus E-5
• Pentax K-5
• Pentax K-r
• Sony SLT-A33
• Sony SLT-A55
• Sony Alpha 560
• Sony Alpha 580

But, let’s also see what the camera and accessories manufacturers did not announce or launched too discreetly.

• Panasonic launches a new Lumix: The GH2 sports an 18MP CMOS sensor in a body very similar to the Lumix GH1. 1080p video capture, autofocus is 2x faster.
• Panasonic: New “G” lenses (14 mm f/2.5, Vario 100-300 mm f/4-5.6 Mega O.I.S., 3D 12.5 mm f/12)
• Sigma is ready to push forward after the SD15 (very late in the market) with a new Foveon sensor at 48 MP (15.3 x 3) which will arrive in a future camera to be named Sigma SD1. Notice that Sigma announced that the SD1 sensor will be protected against dust by a glass filter which will hermetically close the mirror chamber (this should be very efficient).
• Pentax : SMC DA 18-135 mm f/3,5-5,6ED AL [IF] DC WR zoom lens for the Pentax K range of SLR photo cameras.
• Leica M9: A special edition built out of titanium (for rich art collectors).
• Große Überraschung (Big surprise): Fuji presents a very cool new APS-C compact camera, the FinePix X100 which looks a lot like a smaller Leica M9 (very good looking) and which nobody heard about before (did you hear about any kind of link for it?). Price: About US$ 1000 or 1000€
• Adobe announces a new Elements version: Adobe Photoshop Elements 9
• Sigma 150 mm Macro and 120-300 mm f/2.8 stabilized
• Leaf Aptus-II 12 medium format photo camera with 80 MP resolution and €23,995 / $31,995 price tag
• Samyang présented two new lenses: V-DSLR 8 mm F3.5 Aspherical IF MC Fish-eye CS et AE 14 mm f/2.8 ED AS IF UM
• Metz comes with 3 flashes: 44 AF-1 (99.90€), 36 AF-5 (69.90€), 24 AF-1 (179.90€).

Be warned.

photo credit: davidgsteadman

When buying a photo camera, we often research in order to decide if this is the best camera, if its features will be goo enough, but will it be robust enough? Will it be useful or necessary to purchase a warranty contract extension? Will it fail very soon?

When somebody asks me these questions (and it happens quite often since I consider myself some kind of photography expert), I am usually without good answers; Nobody really speaks about this dirty little secret: Reliability of photo cameras is a taboo issue. In most cases, talking only happens for very extreme situations (I will not mention any pro camera events in the past few years). But on a daily basis, will my camera follow me everywhere? will it survive the bad treatment I will apply? Or will it fail at the sight of the first cloud (of dust or rain)? Preferably just a couple of days after the end of the warranty period?

photo credit: Orin Zebest

So, I decided to collect more than the usual information to try and answer these questions with more than: Entry-level cameras are too cheap to be robust, are less protected than pro cameras; And, mechanics fail more than electronics.

And, I found a few interesting articles with adequate documentation. Of course, they are the rightful product of the business of some shops repairing or renting equipment and accepting to share their data with us.

And I found interesting data. For example, there is nearly no information on photo cameras, or camera bodies. But SquareTrade published rather detailed report about the repairs they did in the recent years (though mostly on point-n-shoot cameras) with some frightfully clear conclusions, like:

• More than 10% of the cameras failed before 2 years
• The statistical projection tells that there are/will-be more than 15% failure within 3 years
• Accidents are a major cause for failure: 40% of cameras were broken in such a way; We are rougher than our cameras!
• The more expensive, the more robust
• For SLR cameras, Canon and Nikon go hand-in-hand

And to think that the failure rate of major brands is around 4% within two years for a camera whose price is nearing 1000€…

But, look at the graph below:

I would like to believe that you can extend these figures out of point-n-shoots and into the SLR market, but my own professional experience with quality and reliability management (in the automotive world, if you want to know) tells me that we should not even try.

On the opposite, I found additional data about interchangeable lenses to plug into our SLR cameras. Two studies from LensPlay and LensRentals bring some more light to the issue.

From LensPlay, hundreds of lenses and users have been analyzed: among the voluntary answers provided for Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Minolta/Sony, Tamron, Tokina and Sigma, only Minolta/Sony produced less than 200 answers (a pretty nice representation of the market).

LensRental gives us a finer status because they go down to a model-by-model level. So, it’s no longer necessary to compare brands, but you can get a good idea of which glass piece is more fragile or more sturdy than others, forgetting about the good (or bad) fames.

We also appreciate a lot some of the additional comments like:

• The super tele prime lenses (300mm f/2.8, 400mm f/2.8, 500mm f/4, 600mm f/4) from either Canon or Nikon are among the more reliable lenses (their simplicity is probably a good reason for such a score).
• The Sigma 120-400mm & 150-500mm had a 45% repair rate (as long as they were included in the LensRentals catalog of products).
• The Canon 50mm f/1.2 and Sigma 100-300mm are well under 10% (which is considered a good level in LensRentals)

Of course, these raw figures must be taken with a grain of salt: Rentals are often more mis-handled than bought parts, but the relative results are quite certainly representative of the underlying reality. And for example, the Canon 100-400mm seems to have an unfair bad fame about the reliability of its stabilization mechanism.

All in all, many reasons to treat your photo hardware with some care…

Sources:

• PetaPixel
• LensPlay
• LensRentals

• Compatibility with 64-bit Windows (important for all photographers who moved to 64-bit Seven because of the lifted memory constraints);
• Compatibility with the new Sigma SD15 D-SLR camera

It is immediately available for download:

• Click here to download the Photo Pro 4.1 for Sigma SD series
• Click here to download the Photo Pro 4.1 for Sigma DP2s
• Click here to download the Photo Pro 4.1 for Sigma DP2
• Click here to download the Photo Pro 4.1 for Sigma DP1

• Europe: 1,199€ (after a previous Sigma leak had been suggesting 899€)
• United Kingdom: £899.99

This seems quite high for what is known of the Sigma SD15 features:

• Foveon sensor with 4.7×3 mega-pixels
• Light metering: 77-point sensor
• TRUE II processor
• 3″ rear LCD display (460,000 dots)

Just a few days more to wait, but I am starting to doubt that this approach will help Sigma stay in this very competitive market with the Sigma SD15.

Main features:

• Foveon X3 sensor with 14 Mega-pixels
• True II processor already known on DPx models
• Sensitivity: ISO 100-1600 (ext. ISO 50-3200)
• Continuous shooting: 21-RAW-image buffer at 3 frames/s
• Exposure computed from a 77-segment sensor
• 5-point autofocus
• Bracketing: 3 or 5 images
• Reliable and durable shutter with life cycle of over 100,000 exposures
• Dust-protection of the sensor
• Viewfinder: Pentaprism with 98% coverage, 0.8x magnification, 18mm eye point; With diopter settings
• Image stabilization: sensor displacement
• Flash: GN 11 at ISO 100 (covering the angle of a 17 mm lens)
• 3″ LCD screen with 460,000 dots
• Top control LCD
• Memory cards compatible with SD & SDHC
• Weight: 680g

SD15 special site: www.SIGMA-SD.com/sd15
SD15 product page: www.sigma-photo.co.jp/english/camera/sd15/index.htm

Press Release

February 21, 2010: The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the new Sigma SD15 Digital SLR camera. This camera is the latest model in Sigma’s SD series. Powered by the 14 megapixel Foveon X3 direct image sensor it can capture all primary RGB colors at each and every pixel location arranged in three layers. The new SD15 incorporates the “TRUE II” image processing engine which processes the large amount of data from the 14 megapixel direct image sensor.

It also provides high resolution power and reproduces high definition images with impressive three-dimensional detail, rich in gradation. The camera adopts the SD card and incorporates a highly visible 3.0 inch LCD monitor, 77-Segment AE sensor and AFE (Analog Front End).  It provides high image quality and user friendly design.  In addition, the durable shutter mechanism, which has a life of over 100,000 actuations, is ideal for the demands of digital photography.

Development
Since October 2002, Sigma has introduced three digital SLR cameras, the SD9, SD10 and SD14.  In March 2008 Sigma also introduced a high-end compact digital camera, the DP1, which uses the same large image sensor as featured in Sigma’s digital SLR cameras.  The DP and SD series have established a strong following from a wide range of photographers, both amateur and professional.
This new SD15 has been developed with the principle of producing superior image quality from the direct image sensor, as well as improved processing speed, operation and performance.

Many dedicated accessories such as the VIEW FINDER VF-21, HOOD ADAPTER HA-21 and ELECTRONIC FLASH EF-140 DG are available for the DP2s.

Summary

X3 Full-color image sensor
The Foveon X3® direct image sensor featured in the Sigma SD15 digital SLR camera captures all primary RGB colors at each and every pixel location, ensuring the capture of full and complete color.  Using three silicon-embedded layers of photo detectors, stacked vertically to take advantage of silicon’s ability to absorb red, green and blue light at different respective depths, it efficiently reproduces color more accurately, and offers sharper resolution, pixel for pixel, than any conventional image sensor.  Since color moiré is not generated, the use of a low-pass filter is not needed because full information of light and color can be captured with a three-dimensional feeling.

TRUE II image processing engine
The SD15 incorporates the “TRUE (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine) II” image processing engine which improves the processing speed and overall image quality. The unique image-processing algorithm provides high resolution power and reproduces high definition images with richly graduated tones.

SD card
The SD15 adopts the SD card (compatible with SDHC) which is also used with the DP series of Sigma cameras, improving convenience to users of both camera systems.

21 frames can be captured continuously in RAW mode
The SD15 is equipped with DDR II buffer memory which is twice as large in capacity as the SD14’s buffer. The camera’s high-speed image processing circuits are capable of handling the large data files generated by the high-resolution 14 megapixel sensor. The SD15 features a continuous shooting speed of 3 frames per second with up to 21 RAW Images that can be captured in continuous shooting mode.

AFE（Analog Front End）
AFE (Analog Front End) converts the color data, which full-color capture systems record, to a digital signal. This enables the camera to reproduce high definition and richly colored images.

77-Segment AE Sensor
The SD15 features a new 77-segment AE sensor which allows advanced AE algorithms, improving exposure accuracy. Exact control and collaboration with the AF point ensures the camera exposes accurately even in difficult lighting conditions.

Large, highly visible 3.0” TFT color LCD Monitor
The SD15 camera features a 3.0 inch TFT color LCD monitor.  This 460,000 pixel resolution LCD monitor benefits from a wide viewing angle, making it easy to check focusing and composition. It is possible to review the captured images with a Contact-Sheet View (nine thumbnail images), Single-Image View or Zoomed-In View (it is possible to select the magnified area by using the 4-way controller). While reviewing images, it is possible to display the detailed shooting information such as shutter speed and F-value by pressing the INFO button.

New, intuitive user interface
The improved user interface provides faster and more convenient operation of the camera.  The Quick Set button activates the display of the most commonly used camera functions such as Color Mode, White Balance, Image Quality and Image Size on one screen.  The 4-Way Controller ensures faster operation of these features. The FUNC button enables functions such as Flash Mode and Synchro Mode.

RAW format recording
The SD15 includes a RAW recording mode for retaining full image capture detail of the utmost quality plus a JPEG recording format for convenience.  The RAW data format uses lossless compression for more compact, yet uncompromised, data files.  The RAW data format of the SD15 keeps brightness and color data in a 1:1 ratio without relying on interpolation.  Each pixel location captures the full color RGB data which, when processed in SIGMA Photo Pro, will preserve the balance of the natural data for the best photos with the best image quality.

SIGMA Photo Pro 4.0 (supplied)
The supplied image processing software of “Sigma Photo Pro 4.0” converts RAW data quickly and easily.  Incorporation of a new noise reduction algorithm reduces Chroma and Luminance noise when processing X3F files taken at ISO400 or more.  It is possible to adjust the level of reduction for noise just by moving the slider in the control pallet.
This software is compatible with multi core CPU’s, ensuring high speed image processing.  It also incorporates functions such as Loupe, slideshow, Printing, JPEG conversion and batch white balance settings.

Reliable and durable shutter with life cycle of over 100,000 exposures
The durable focal plane shutter mechanism has a life cycle of over 100,000 exposures and dramatically reduces the amount of dust and dirt from the shutter mechanism.
The photographer can enjoy taking pictures without worrying about dust and dirt adhering to the image sensor either from inside or outside the camera.

Dust Protector
Most digital SLR cameras are vulnerable to dust entering the body.  If the dust and dirt adhere to the image sensor, it may appear in the pictures.  The mount of the SD 15 is equipped with a dust protector and the sealing parts are incorporated around the mount, preventing dust from entering the body.  Even if dust adheres to the image sensor, the dust protector can be removed easily for sensor cleaning.

Bright viewfinder image by the incorporation of a pentaprism
The SD15 features a pentaprism viewfinder with 98% (vertical and horizontal) coverage, 0.9x magnification and an 18mm eye point.  A diopter adjustment is also equipped which can be adjusted from -3 to +1.5 dpt.

ISO50 available
It is possible to select ISO sensitivity value from 100 to 1600.  When the camera is in the extended mode, ISO 50 and ISO 3200 can be selected.

5-point AF
The auto focus sensor features 5 focusing points (center, left, right, up and down) ensuring consistently fast and precise focusing. The AF metering features a cross type sensor in the center of the screen. Selecting the AF point can be done manually or automatically.

Four metering modes
The SD15 is equipped with four metering modes: 77-segment Evaluative Metering, Center Weighted Average Metering, Center Area Metering and Spot Metering.

When it is difficult to determine the exposure setting due to variable light conditions, the Auto Bracketing function enables the photographer to take a sequence of pictures of the same subject at three or five different exposure levels.  The shift value can be set in 1/3EV increments up to ±3EV(3 stops)/±1.7EV(5 stops).

Improved Auto Bracketing function
In addition to the usual three frame bracketing, five frame bracketing has now been added to the Auto Bracketing function.  It allows users to get a more detailed and accurate exposure.

Two motor systems for the prevention of camera shake
Two motor systems are driven by the mirror-drive and shutter charge which lowers the vibration of the mirror movement, preventing camera shake.

Mirror lock-up mechanism prevents camera shake
The mirror lock-up mechanism raises the mirror, preventing vibration when the shutter is released.  This prevents camera shake and is especially effective for macro photography or when using extremely long telephoto lenses.  Use of the dedicated Remote Controller RS-31 (optional) also reduces the possibility of camera shake.

Built-in flash with 17mm angle of coverage
The Sigma SD15 camera’s built-in flash offers an angle of coverage of 17mm (equivalent to 28mm with a 35mm camera) lens with a guide number of 11.  The Built-in flash can be synchronized to a shutter speed up to 1/180 sec.  Incorporation of S-TTL automatic exposure ensures the control of advanced flash photography.

Backlight top LCD panel
The top LCD panel allows the photographer to quickly check camera information such as resolution setting, metering mode, battery status and the number of images that can be recorded on the SD card. It also incorporates an orange backlight, which enables the camera to be easily controlled in low light conditions.

Dedicated rechargeable battery with a large capacity
The dedicated BP-21 Lithium-ion battery is supplied as standard with the SD15.  It is possible to shoot approximately 500 images on one full charge.  The battery takes about 120 minutes to fully charge with the supplied BC-21 Battery Charger.  The optional AC Adapter SAC-4 enables the Sigma SD15 to obtain power from the main supply.

Optional accessories
The SD15 can be used with over 45 Sigma lenses such as ultra-wide, ultra-telephoto, macro and fisheye.  In addition, other accessories include dedicated flashguns (EF-530 DG SUPER, EF-530 DG ST and EM-140 DG) which offer fully automatic S-TTL flash dedication, a Power Grip (PG-21), Cable Release (CR-21) and Remote Controller (RS-31).

These many optional accessories are available for the SD15 to complement the user’s style of photography. They ensure ease of use and comfortable shooting.

But, apart from the rare occasions when you really need it, it’s too expensive for you and me. Why not build it yourself? Instructables does the demonstration with a Nikon D90, but it could be done with any other camera.

But you can also find a similar tool at Olympus (and it takes into account the specificities of 4/3 sensor format, of course): Perfect Lens finder.

I recommend reading a nice little post titled “All lens tests are wrong” that concludes that the only good test for a lens is to use it during a full year.

Not wrong, but I still recommend to also check my list of web sites with photo lens reviews.

By the way, traditionnally, since the Foveon technology of sensors does not use infrared filters, the Sigma dSLR cameras are very good candidates for IR photo.

Tamron focal length comparison

DPreview has a good comparison of 4 zoom lenses opening at f/2.8 for SLR cameras:

• Canon 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM
• Nikon AF-S VR 70-200mm F2.8 G
• Sigma 70-200mm 1:2.8 EX DG Apo Macro HSM II
• Tamron 70-200mm 1:2.8 Di LD (IF) Macro

Since they are one of the most coveted segment of the SLR lens market, it was worth mentionning despite the absence of some serious participants like the Sony SAL-70200G – 70-200mm f/2.8 G-Series offering (originating back into the days of the great white lenses from Minolta) or the Pentax SMC-FA* 80-200mm f/2.8 [IF] ED.

It is often difficult to group lens reviews in order to compare/evaluate a little more than their mere physical characteristics (focal length, aperture/diaphragm, or even number of individual lenses). But how would you evaluate/review optical quality? When I see the really impressive differences between two lenses, I would be prepared to judge from their price, but a cheap wide-angle lens is not always worse than a slightly more expensive one (well… if the price difference is really large, it’s not only an accident and quality explains a lot).

So, where should we go?

I collected the addresses of some web sites appearing quite able to provide this kind of quality reviews/comparisons/evaluations/tests (I try to be systematic, with your help, while telling what I believe are the strengths or the weaknesses of each one).

From here, I invite you to an orgy of lens reviews, lens tests, lens comparisons, lens evaluations. And remember to shoot some photos, too. It’s not only the lens which does the photo. Some are shot by telephones, if the photographer is an artist.