What is the Sigma DP1?
The Sigma DP-1 is something of an anomaly. It's compact body houses a digital SLR-sized sensor. In fact, that sensor is Sigma's much applauded Foveon X3, 3-layer CMOS sensor.
This unique sensor records almost 5 megapixels of resolution for each of the primary colours (red, green and blue) to give an overall effective resolution of 14.06 megapixels. Combined with the larger sensor, there's no doubt that the image quality produced runs rings around any other digital compact on the market...but does anyone care?
The rate of technological advancement of compact digital cameras is astounding and the average consumer in this market is most impressed by the inevitable increase in resolution from one month to the next. The DP1 would still appear towards the top (if not #1) in the resolution stakes, but the fixed focal length of the lens (equivalent to 28mm in 35mm film photography terms) and the basic design will almost certainly kill any interest this camera generates from Joe Consumer.
According to most reviews since it's launch, neither is the Sigma DP-1 particularly user friendly. Most settings must be changed within the menu. So who would use this camera?
Ultimately, this camera will appeal to those who don't mind putting in the extra effort in return for a better quality image. Professional photographers who want a pocket-sized alternative to their full kit bag, technophiles that like a challenge, and cashed-up gadgeteers will all enjoy the astonishing results produced by this camera. As one reviewer put it "...just as you are ready to throw the camera away you see the picture and you love it", and surely that's how a camera should be judged?
The Sigma DP1 has recommended retail price of around $1000. Street prices of under $950 should be available.
--
Follow digitalcamerasydney.com.au on Twitter
---
Image courtesy of www.camera-warehouse.com.au (Sigma DP1)
