Sigma DP1

[Jerry Skrocki]

Originally Posted by Martin_Doudoroff

I thought it was interesting to read this morning on DPReview that Olympus has introduced a new DSLR designed to be a small and light as possible. Even so, it's significantly larger and heavier than the DP1, even if you start hanging accessories on the DP1, such as an external viewfinder or flash unit.

Sigma DP1: 113mm x 59mm x 50mm; 250g
Olympus E420: 129mm x 91mm x 53mm; 380g (without lens)

On the plus side, it's good to see Olympus at least trying to justify its continued existence.

You are comparing apples to oranges here. The Olympus E420 is an SLR (interchangeable lenses 4/3 mount) while the DP1 is still a point & shoot.

[Martin_Doudoroff]

Originally Posted by Jerry Skrocki

You are comparing apples to oranges here. The Olympus E420 is an SLR (interchangeable lenses 4/3 mount) while the DP1 is still a point & shoot.

Well, that comparison would indeed be the point. The intent behind the Olympus E420 is to produce a "pocketable" DSLR. Olympus is specifically laying claim to "the world's smallest digital SLR".

To at least some of us, the principle attraction of the DP1 is that it is pocketable while—hopefully—sporting features and image quality to please the pro. Perhaps something approaching "The power of DSLR", as Sigma claims.

[Martin_Doudoroff]

Just pointing out that our tireless correspondent in Sweden has posted a cheeky video on his blog that shows off the form factor and (to an extent) operation of the DP1.

It's clearly not the smallest pocket camera around, but it's still a pocket camera. The user interface looks refreshingly sensible and responsive. Write speed of the RAW file to the SD card looks pretty slow: 12 seconds? I get the impression from the video that shutter release lag may be significant with this camera.

He's also posted RAW file samples and a video demonstrating Sigma's raw processing software.

[AndrewCassino]

Originally Posted by Martin_Doudoroff

Write speed of the RAW file to the SD card looks pretty slow: 12 seconds?

That "12 seconds" was for THREE RAW files shot in a burst. That's not slow, it's actually pretty good for a pocket camera.

[Martin_Doudoroff]

First and second impressions from another Scandinavian photographer with the DP1, this time with the EOS-5D as a point of reference. Overall, very encouraging news if you're willing to accept what compromises there are.

Also, lots of sample images and comparisons with the Ricoh GR2 on this Japanese forum page. I have no idea what they're saying about it, but given that the forum is called "I [heart] GR Digital", probably nothing charitable.

[Martin_Doudoroff]

Michael Reichmann has just posted a fairly extensive review of the DP1. To interpret the review, it helps to be familiar with Reichmann's priorities and pet peeves, but that notwithstanding, the review seems quite sound to me. Bottom line: remarkable image quality, ambivalent camera design.

Sean Reid has also posted the "first part" of a more extensive review to his subscription-only site. Reid, who has also extensively reviewed the Ricoh GR II Digital, has clearly found much to like about the DP1.

[Quentin_Bargate]

I have just purchased a DP1, following the sad demise of my G9 (I sat on it and busted the rear screen!). Its too early for definitive conclusions, but so far I can say this

1. Image quality looks to be excellent, better than previous compacts I have owned, G9 included. The hype appears justified, and the files rezz up very well.

2. Pretty kludgy to operate. Personal irritants are the removable lens cap, which I am sure I will loose in days (why not a flip-out arrangement?), budget feel buttons (not very tactile) silly manual focus system (no means to lock the focus I can find), poor menus, moderate quality rear screen.

3. Fairly tough, nice and small.

4. Quite a lot of barrel distortion. Now, as this is a fixed focal length lens, surely this could have been corrected by Sigma's in firmware, or alternatively in their raw software???

But its the image quality that looks like a winner. More tests on this to follow

Quentin

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