Lol! Thanks for the mention friend. I definitely will be a bit more positive in my review ;) You nailed it when you compared it to shooting film. I used it for a road trip the other day and did some landscapes style pictures. Man... the colors just blew my mind. Keep making your videos, like I said on the last one, totally digging your style. /M
Damian, keep it exactly as it is, you hit the nail without any pretensions. It's a refreshingly personal and engaging style nobody else seems to have! You come across as a nice bloke with a passion for photography and no snobbery!
As an original DP2 user I shed tears of joy over the improvements in this version. In comparison to the first generation, the SD Quattro is amazingly finally usable. It’s 2020 and I just had to grab this camera before it becomes harder to order or get second hand. Once you go Foveon it’s hard to switch to anything else. I love the build quality and all the quattro body designs.
My everyday work camera is a Nikon D850 and D500. I shoot lots of rodeo. I have a couple of sigma DP Quattros I used to play with. I’ve always been impressed with what you can get out of a foveon sensor when the planets are aligned. Last month I rented one of these, wow! Disclaimer, I have had a version of this lens before on a Nikon and loved it. This combo is fantastic, the monochrome images it makes are amazing, the detail, grayscale shading. I learned with film in manual cameras and imho that is the only way to use these. Slow slow slow, think about what you’re doing. ISO stays at 100 period. No action no motion. Tripod gets taken out of the truck. Obviously not for rodeo or action , but when you need to slow down and truly create a picture this is it.
I have an SD Quattro, had it for about six months. It is about the only camera that gives me a "wow!" It does slow you down, as if you're shooting medium format, or even large format - I shoot almost exclusively in SFD mode (Super Fine Detail) which means you must use a tripod, and your subject must be still. Then, only Sigma Photo Pro will process them (7 bracketed and stacked RAW files into one ~375mb RAW file). You need to use good glass (Sigma Art or good EX lenses) but the results are worth it, to me. It's a very limited camera, but what it does it does better than anything else I've ever used. When I go back to the Pentax K-5 (which does a good job) I'm always underwhelmed by comparison. -Tom
Thank you for sharing. I would love to see tutorials or more info and results on the SFD mode. I personally don't like drawing attention to myself with a tripod outside but I'd still like to learn what I can do with that mode.
One of most amazing digital cameras ever made, and one of my favorite personal digital cameras. This is not a piece of gear to compare to others for features, price and usability. Instead, this is a tool to do things that just about most other cameras no matter features, price and usability, can't.. that is, if you know what you are doing and appreciate and understand such a tool.
Im a long Sigma SD user.... SD10 to SD1 Merrill and i love to make pictures with it. The Sharpness is outstanding and the look of the images are nice. But ISO over 800 in color are not good, but in true monochrome mode, you can go up to 3200 without problems. A Camera for photographer who want shoot photos and dont play with gameboy :)
Your review is spot on-the cons and the pros. I have had the exact same experience with this camera. Reminds me of a Playskool toy camera I had as a child. But there is something about this camera-or more specifically-the images that makes you go “Ohhh.” Once you’ve seen what you can do, admittedly in limited circumstances, you understand. Gorgeous colors with a depth like film, and details that you would never expect until you go deeper into the image.
Got here because of Mattias' mention of you on his video, glad I checked it out! This camera looks really interesting... If I wasn't saving up for a couple Pentax lenses I want I'd definitely pick it up. After I get those, who knows? Great video!
I had an dp1 Quattro for a month with the Foveon Sensor…had to return it as it was buggy and freezing up(just that camera, not all of them). I’m not a professional, and I prefer to take my time for one photo rather than click-click-click-click and do the quantity approach. the approach works for me, so the SIgma Quattro’s work for me. I especially love that that DP Quattros have a 21x9 mode, I would love an odd shaped sensor that took its highest megapixel photo’s with a 3:1 or 4:1 ratio. It’s spectacular for street photography as it captures life in a way our eyes do while absorbing the streets, people and activity around us. We don’t see the world in Squares, or 3:2 ratio’s…it’s just not natural
His was a little nicer yeah. This camera sorta interest me because of the sensor. More like these should exist. Its cool to have someone new to follow on yt 👌🏼
Good humored review! By the way, it makes a great infra red camera if you're into B&W IR. The filter in front of the sensor can be removed very easily out in the field with just a tweezers
I like me some quirky technology, I remember the CCD cameras back in 2006, like the ones from Fuji, Jesus Christ the colours out of those. Mind blowing!
Can you please provide the actual MP count? I have heard different "effective pixel" counts for this camera. Other RUclips videos say its a 51MP equivalent for this same model. Thanks
I watched this ‘cause of Mattias B. 👍🏻. I was going to go back to medium format film to shoot exclusive mountainscapes, (Via Pentax GW 690), but this looks like a real winner for an “affordable” MF Digital beast. Slowing down is a good thing. Why I prefer landscape photography. Waiting for the right light!!
I bought this camera after I regretted selling my dp2 Quattro (which makes much crispier images but it was a pain to handle the files). Colorwise they’re both great. But I have to admit that I am pretty disappointed in the way the bokeh of the 30 1.4 looks. Is it just me? Also Foveon sensor cameras might spit out unusable images when shooting against light. Just saying.
Great video - I really enjoyed it. I do agree with you - somewhere along the line the human being appears to have lost the art of living - sometimes we need to take a 'Time-Out' and reflect upon 'being', and, try something completely different. Many thanks for making this video.
@Damian Brown After doing the research, listening to the lovely folks of YT, understanding and accepting the caveats on how the positives astoundingly outweigh a lot of the negatives. Sure, it’s probably going to irritate me at first, but I’m sure as an experienced film photographer, patience is a virtue. I have no doubt that if this camera grows on me, and I’m definitely getting the SDQH without hesitation, just for further curiosity.
Ok so I got this camera and the auto focus is not slow at all. It’s faster than a Sony a7 but not as fast as a xt1. It’s the constant auto focus it’s not great at. Wildlife would be great with this camera but in testing birds and animals. Iso ok so 100 is the best but I took some indoor photos of my kids at 200 and 400 in black and white and they look amazing. If you want the fasted camera to just fit fire and let it do everything in auto for you than this is not for you. If you like to think about what your doing and make a photo it’s great. Much faster than an a7 mk1 or Rx1
Ich habe mir lieber die SD QH gekauft und mache nur RAW und bei 100 ISO, in SPP entwickeln und in Ps bearbeiten. Noch heute eine super Kamera. Nur: sie mag keine Schatten und sollte nicht sehr unterbelichtet werden. Es gibt schnell Farbrauschen. Hast du sie noch oder hast du nur getestet?
your enthusiasm is truly evoking interest :) still not clear to me what the difference in actual image quality is is between the SD Quattro and the SD Quattro H (with an even larger 3x sensor?)
How does the image quality and detail compare to full frame cameras such as the D800 or Sony A7R. I want to do some large prints and need to know which camera to buy on a limited budget. Unfortunately renting to try it is not an option where I live. Thank you.
Seems you didn't have great light to start, yet color noise is very good for a foveon sensor, my DP Merrill camera's can't handle overcast very well (unless in B&W).
I’ve a couple of these cameras as a good deal in a camera shop in my city. I’m a portrait and street photographer and I’m really intrigued by it. Do you really recommend to buy?
Depends if you need all the latest tech and high iso performance that this doesn't offer. It's much akin to shooting film with very rewarding image quality, rich colours etc but at lower iso than most modern gear.
Hi Damian, Very good review, thanks. I like the style of your videos. As a film shooter I'm interested to use the Sigma SD Quattro with some vintage lenses ... specifically Leica R (3-cam) lenses. Do you happen to know if there is an adapter available for the Sigma mount to accept Leica R lenses? Thanks and regards, Mark
It's true, but the quality also drops off rapidly in low light, and especially on certain channels there is more noise, which is where most of the noise comes from. Just view the RGB channels separately and you'll see that green is noisier than blue, and red is noisier than green. That's because of the design of the sensor. There is technically an ISO boost going on within the camera even at 100 ISO, because the red and green channels needs to be boosted in order to match the blue channel (i.e. the top layer of the sensor), otherwise the images would look like it has a blue filter on it. That's because you end up with light losses the further subsequent channels of light needs to penetrate the sensor. And the problem with light in general is that when you get primary colors, the other channels naturally suffer from noise due to lack of signal. But that's kind of why the foveon shines, because it uses the same surface area for each channel, rather than 1/4 to 1/2 of a pixel like with Bayer. So technically an APSC foveon has twice the surface area on the green channel, and 4 times the surface area for red and blue channels, functionally making its pixels bigger than full frame, when it comes to individual color channels. For me, I think the biggest drawback is the limited nature of the lens system. Not everyone wants to need to buy Sigma lenses, or adapt. And since the flange distance is soo long on the Sigma, you really can't mount lenses like Canon EF, you would need to change the mount on the lens itself. They really should have made the mount system more modular. I mean seriously, people don't want to throw away or sell hundreds or thousands of dollars worth of lenses just to get a new camera, especially a niche camera. Sigma's lenses also tend to be very pricey. Sure they have nice lenses, but a lot of their lenses are no better than much cheaper lenses. The Non-H version that comes with a lens is nicely priced though. At $900, you're basically paying $600 for the camera and the $300 the lens costs separately. But still, that's not enough for those of us with existing non SA lenses. 30mm f/1.4 is nice, but I wouldn't want that as my main lens. If I had no equipment already, I'd buy it (or wait for the full frame version). But most camera buyers aren't first time buyers. Most first time buyers wouldn't even know about the Sigma either. Sigma could take over the market with this sensor, to the point where Bayer would be a thing of the past.... in fact they should have taken over the market years ago. But I think it's just bad marketing decisions on their part. Foveon has been around for quite a while, but most people have never even heard of it.
@@peoplez129 The drawbacks to the sigma cams are legendary, but if you are a pixel peeper and want that crisp look, it's worth the limitations and at the price point it can be, for some, a no brainer purchase. The noise issues are usually, but sometimes, not that great at decent light, as you mention about low light. This is definitely not a cam system you would in good conscience recommend to anyone, but a dp Merrill in your pocket is a very nice addition to a day's shooting. I've taken my dp2 to death valley and basically ignored the other cameras I brought (that wow factor).
Thanks. @Sigma is now part of the L-mount family, and the alliance is growing .... Leica + Panasonic + Sigma... 8 Cameras already : 4 Lumix(4 FF), 3 Leica (2 APSC, 1 FF), 1 Sigma (FF)... S5 is the last body addition I am wondering * L-mount, APSC/APSH Foveon or Bayer : What's Sigma plan for a #Sigma Quattro / Sigma QuattroH replacement? Wold you like to see a Quattro added to the L-mount system? What are the specs you will expect? * L-mount, FF Foveon or Bayer : After the Sigma FP (video/film centric), a replacement of the SD1 / SD1 Merrill, mirrorless version but still-centric with videos capabilities like the S1, S1R or SL2? Thanks
@@DamianBrown Leica is pretty much for a niche of users who are ready to pay the premium price to have the Red Dot. Leica is a bit above, at the top of the 2 other members of the alliance Was wondering as well how the alliance members are going to work this, to avoid internal competition or cannibalization,.. like developing competencies... (Like in M43 world : Panasonic cameras = video-centric, DFD vs Olympus cameras = more expensive, PDAF,) Sigma fp vs Panasonic S1H? Leica SL2 vs Panasonic S1R Sigma and Panasonic lenses are cheaper than Leica Lenses... With the S5, will leica users be happy to see this maker re-badge the S5 to offer a baby SL2 (or a baby Vader, Luke)... BTW the photography market is shaking... is there room for more cameras?
@@pgulysse1 I personally feel, Sigma should just focus on Foveon cameras with the L mount. We don't need a rehash of the Panasonics and while the modular concept is great, it seems the response has not been all that favorable owing to the less than practical execution. Plenty of dedicated cinema options already, so we don't need one more This alliance can be made perfect, in my view, with Leica aiming for one end of the spectrum and Foveon based cameras at the other end with Panasonic balancing both with more traditional Bayer bodies. It could make for a great system of choices without cannibalization.
What an odd beast - the camera , not you LOL Knowing that sigma make lenses compatible with all the major manufacturers I'd have thought they might have made a body that could be adapted to all of their lenses rather than coming up with their own mount ... I'd consider buying it if I could use my Canon Glass and as the DSLR workflow is already a total kludge compared to phone based cameras ... adding extra flakey software into it is just excruciating. I'm sure the mount thing is a patent issue ... but one can dream I suppose :-)
Why does Sigma bother with these quirky cameras with sub par specs and little chance in the marketplace? I hear Sony's now working on a similar multi-layer sensor.
@@DamianBrown yeah I'd really like to see somebody push the jpegs and see what's possible I'm really tempted to get one there on sale. I might be able to swing it but I still need to decide if it's worth it I don't mind manual focus. Trying to figure out if the lenses worth it or adapting it's a better idea. I wonder how they do with flash I'd like to try some portraits.. you had no luck with jpegs there really that terrible at base iso.
Hi Damian. Do you have any idea of the difference between the SD Quattro and the SD15 or SD14 ? Ergonomics, photo quality, file types ? Are the second-hand SD14/15's good options for a lesser price, do you know at all ? Thanks! Eric
Super video made by an enthusiast. The Sigma is a quality piece of kit but wow you do need to know what you are getting. I love your honest delivery and have subscribed. Mike
Indeed, I love photography as a whole, never just one brand. Of course I have a brand I use the most for my work but I have love for them all if they help me enjoy creating images. We are far too spoilt these days :)
Whaaaat?! Thanks for replying and not to be contrary but I thought I saw an hdmi feed out.If it gives clean hdmi out and doesn't shut down automatically when not shooting,........ on the other hand already I feel like an external recorder is too much trouble for this camera.
This camera is about reproducing the quality celluloid film has regarding colors - outperforms the Bayer and X-Trans sensors but with a cost regarding speed. Not for movie makers. If you shoot film, this is the best digital alternative. But not yet fully comparable, as is not yet as organic as film. Is like a robot interpreting a classic music. Regarding film, if you look for the film look in your movies, the best alternative is to use Fujifilm X-T2 with one of the film simulations they offer. Sigma is a specific tool, for a specific operation. You can't complain that you cannot build space ships with it....
I ended up buying the DP2 Merril because of everyones review about the image quality, and... I was not disappointed!...by the image quality. But the camera's performance in every other way was just horrible. Still, I keep going back to it because of that image quality. It gives me what I want to see in an image. Can a Sony A7R iii better it? I don't know. I haven't tried a Sony A7R. I'm sure it matters as to what you are used to. But if I see clarity and resolution, the image is on the way to satisfying my expectations. I get inspired by resolution. I think, "What's the point!" if I'm not getting inspired by the images I take.
Not convinced at all. If I wanted to slow things down I'd just shoot film. For that money you could get a decent medium format setup with a bit of shopping about and lets face it that's much cooler.
True, but then you need a good scanner to get the negs into digital, unless you plan to only print only on silver halide etc. And that's the point. Eventually most people with film cameras convert them to digital, so the image becomes digital not analogue. So what's the point? And I grew up with film and love it, but digital now exceeds "most" film I believe.
Check out Mattis Burling's review ruclips.net/video/C9EdizwhcbU/видео.html
I did. Both of your reviews are complements to one another. It was delightful to see both sides.
By the way have you messed around with one of the old DP 2s I definitely want to get one of those
Lol! Thanks for the mention friend.
I definitely will be a bit more positive in my review ;)
You nailed it when you compared it to shooting film. I used it for a road trip the other day and did some landscapes style pictures. Man... the colors just blew my mind.
Keep making your videos, like I said on the last one, totally digging your style.
/M
I'm looking forward to it!!! Thanks!
Mattias Burling I'll need to check it out.
I love my Sigma' s been using them for years... happy to help if needed.
We didn't invite you here Matthias😂 get your own channel 🤷 happy holidays🌸
Damian, keep it exactly as it is, you hit the nail without any pretensions. It's a refreshingly personal and engaging style nobody else seems to have! You come across as a nice bloke with a passion for photography and no snobbery!
Sorry this is ridiculously late but thank you!!!!
As an original DP2 user I shed tears of joy over the improvements in this version. In comparison to the first generation, the SD Quattro is amazingly finally usable. It’s 2020 and I just had to grab this camera before it becomes harder to order or get second hand. Once you go Foveon it’s hard to switch to anything else. I love the build quality and all the quattro body designs.
I need to go back to this camera!!
Ikr! Some great deals available too. Just trying to save up and hopefully find a good deal on the 1.8 twins now.
My everyday work camera is a Nikon D850 and D500. I shoot lots of rodeo. I have a couple of sigma DP Quattros I used to play with. I’ve always been impressed with what you can get out of a foveon sensor when the planets are aligned. Last month I rented one of these, wow! Disclaimer, I have had a version of this lens before on a Nikon and loved it. This combo is fantastic, the monochrome images it makes are amazing, the detail, grayscale shading. I learned with film in manual cameras and imho that is the only way to use these. Slow slow slow, think about what you’re doing. ISO stays at 100 period. No action no motion. Tripod gets taken out of the truck. Obviously not for rodeo or action , but when you need to slow down and truly create a picture this is it.
Thanks a lot for your comments Paul!
I have an SD Quattro, had it for about six months. It is about the only camera that gives me a "wow!" It does slow you down, as if you're shooting medium format, or even large format - I shoot almost exclusively in SFD mode (Super Fine Detail) which means you must use a tripod, and your subject must be still. Then, only Sigma Photo Pro will process them (7 bracketed and stacked RAW files into one ~375mb RAW file). You need to use good glass (Sigma Art or good EX lenses) but the results are worth it, to me. It's a very limited camera, but what it does it does better than anything else I've ever used. When I go back to the Pentax K-5 (which does a good job) I'm always underwhelmed by comparison.
-Tom
Great comment Tom, thanks for sharing!!
Thank you for sharing. I would love to see tutorials or more info and results on the SFD mode. I personally don't like drawing attention to myself with a tripod outside but I'd still like to learn what I can do with that mode.
One of most amazing digital cameras ever made, and one of my favorite personal digital cameras. This is not a piece of gear to compare to others for features, price and usability. Instead, this is a tool to do things that just about most other cameras no matter features, price and usability, can't.. that is, if you know what you are doing and appreciate and understand such a tool.
Agreed!!!
Im a long Sigma SD user.... SD10 to SD1 Merrill and i love to make pictures with it. The Sharpness is outstanding and the look of the images are nice. But ISO over 800 in color are not good, but in true monochrome mode, you can go up to 3200 without problems. A Camera for photographer who want shoot photos and dont play with gameboy :)
Exactly! Thanks Michael.
Oh wow! 3200 would be massively useful. Will keep that in mind the next time I do monochrome with my SD.
I'm from Mattias Burling. 😊
and a proud owner of "SD Quattro H"
Ha brilliant :D
Can you do a review of that H? I would like to know about that camera.
Good idea!
Your review is spot on-the cons and the pros. I have had the exact same experience with this camera. Reminds me of a Playskool toy camera I had as a child. But there is something about this camera-or more specifically-the images that makes you go “Ohhh.” Once you’ve seen what you can do, admittedly in limited circumstances, you understand. Gorgeous colors with a depth like film, and details that you would never expect until you go deeper into the image.
I was eyeing up a second hand one just yesterday actually! Something magical about it.
Got here because of Mattias' mention of you on his video, glad I checked it out! This camera looks really interesting... If I wasn't saving up for a couple Pentax lenses I want I'd definitely pick it up. After I get those, who knows? Great video!
Thank you! Welcome :)
I had an dp1 Quattro for a month with the Foveon Sensor…had to return it as it was buggy and freezing up(just that camera, not all of them). I’m not a professional, and I prefer to take my time for one photo rather than click-click-click-click and do the quantity approach. the approach works for me, so the SIgma Quattro’s work for me. I especially love that that DP Quattros have a 21x9 mode, I would love an odd shaped sensor that took its highest megapixel photo’s with a 3:1 or 4:1 ratio. It’s spectacular for street photography as it captures life in a way our eyes do while absorbing the streets, people and activity around us. We don’t see the world in Squares, or 3:2 ratio’s…it’s just not natural
Brilliant comments, thanks for sharing
His was a little nicer yeah. This camera sorta interest me because of the sensor. More like these should exist. Its cool to have someone new to follow on yt 👌🏼
I still don't know how good the camera is, but you, Mr. Brown, certainly know how to use the camera for all that it is worth.
Good humored review! By the way, it makes a great infra red camera if you're into B&W IR. The filter in front of the sensor can be removed very easily out in the field with just a tweezers
Great tip Gavin!
I like me some quirky technology, I remember the CCD cameras back in 2006, like the ones from Fuji, Jesus Christ the colours out of those. Mind blowing!
Fuji S2 Pro was the first digital camera I owned! The S3 and S5, iirc, were renowned for skin tone goodness!
The 200 exr I think
You did a great job describing the weirdness of this camera: do more reviews!!!
Will do! Thanks a lot
Can you please provide the actual MP count? I have heard different "effective pixel" counts for this camera. Other RUclips videos say its a 51MP equivalent for this same model. Thanks
I bought this on ebay. Coming all the way from Japan. Looking forward to shooting with it.
I need to hunt for some of the others they put out!!
Sigma Foveon you have to love it. I have got Sigma Merrill 1. 2 3. All said.
I watched this ‘cause of Mattias B. 👍🏻. I was going to go back to medium format film to shoot exclusive mountainscapes, (Via Pentax GW 690), but this looks like a real winner for an “affordable” MF Digital beast. Slowing down is a good thing. Why I prefer landscape photography. Waiting for the right light!!
Mattias is a top lad :D Thanks for passing by. Love what you said about slowing down and waiting for the right light.
I am here too :) thinking to that... And S1R but I love the Balck and White of Sigma
I bought this camera after I regretted selling my dp2 Quattro (which makes much crispier images but it was a pain to handle the files). Colorwise they’re both great. But I have to admit that I am pretty disappointed in the way the bokeh of the 30 1.4 looks. Is it just me?
Also Foveon sensor cameras might spit out unusable images when shooting against light. Just saying.
Thanks for starting the conversation! Loved your take! :D
Great video - I really enjoyed it. I do agree with you - somewhere along the line the human being appears to have lost the art of living - sometimes we need to take a 'Time-Out' and reflect upon 'being', and, try something completely different. Many thanks for making this video.
Ye, it's awkward checking out all these cameras. I admit I enjoy it strangely but there's not need for all this stuff :D
I heard somewhere that the monitor of the quattro sd does not accurately depict the camera settings applied to the image preview. How true is this?
Best camera
Love the sensor. Come on Sigma, more of this
Curious of the different aspect ratios this camera has. Apparently it has some wide settings and also a 6x9??
It’s late 2020, I ordered the SDQ from Adorama for about $1100 (+New Leaf). I’m really looking forward to it.
Sweet deal!
@Damian Brown
After doing the research, listening to the lovely folks of YT, understanding and accepting the caveats on how the positives astoundingly outweigh a lot of the negatives. Sure, it’s probably going to irritate me at first, but I’m sure as an experienced film photographer, patience is a virtue. I have no doubt that if this camera grows on me, and I’m definitely getting the SDQH without hesitation, just for further curiosity.
Great video Damian! thanks! Ended up buying one... :)
Enjoy Arno!
Ok so I got this camera and the auto focus is not slow at all. It’s faster than a Sony a7 but not as fast as a xt1. It’s the constant auto focus it’s not great at. Wildlife would be great with this camera but in testing birds and animals. Iso ok so 100 is the best but I took some indoor photos of my kids at 200 and 400 in black and white and they look amazing. If you want the fasted camera to just fit fire and let it do everything in auto for you than this is not for you. If you like to think about what your doing and make a photo it’s great. Much faster than an a7 mk1 or Rx1
Great comment Graham
I really don't get this mirrorless with a DSLR focal flange mount.
Ich habe mir lieber die SD QH gekauft und mache nur RAW und bei 100 ISO, in SPP entwickeln und in Ps bearbeiten. Noch heute eine super Kamera. Nur: sie mag keine Schatten und sollte nicht sehr unterbelichtet werden. Es gibt schnell Farbrauschen. Hast du sie noch oder hast du nur getestet?
I don't have them now sorry. I'll speak to sigma
your enthusiasm is truly evoking interest :) still not clear to me what the difference in actual image quality is is between the SD Quattro and the SD Quattro H (with an even larger 3x sensor?)
Great review of the unusual sigma camera but your video was super crisp and colourful. :)
Thank you!!!
Damian Brown yea my phone happen to have amoled display. Lol!
How does the image quality and detail compare to full frame cameras such as the D800 or Sony A7R. I want to do some large prints and need to know which camera to buy on a limited budget. Unfortunately renting to try it is not an option where I live. Thank you.
Seems you didn't have great light to start, yet color noise is very good for a foveon sensor, my DP Merrill camera's can't handle overcast very well (unless in B&W).
Ye average uk light :(
I miss my Rolleiflex (Weitwinkel and 6008 integral)... maybe this Sigma will give me some good vibes after all..
Worth a try!
I’ve a couple of these cameras as a good deal in a camera shop in my city. I’m a portrait and street photographer and I’m really intrigued by it. Do you really recommend to buy?
Depends if you need all the latest tech and high iso performance that this doesn't offer. It's much akin to shooting film with very rewarding image quality, rich colours etc but at lower iso than most modern gear.
Damian Brown thank you for your answer . I’m mainly a film photographer but wanted something for a couple of street photography and portrait projects
I wonder why they don't offer this lens on the H as a kit?
Elaine D the 30mm was trash on the sd H vs the 50 art. It was a very noticeable difference in sharpness.
Don't Fear The Reaper the 35 1.4 art is a good buy though for the H
Hi Damian,
Very good review, thanks. I like the style of your videos.
As a film shooter I'm interested to use the Sigma SD Quattro with some vintage lenses ... specifically Leica R (3-cam) lenses.
Do you happen to know if there is an adapter available for the Sigma mount to accept Leica R lenses?
Thanks and regards,
Mark
I tried the sd quattro some months ago and I don't think the EVF is as bad as you say... I mean its not perfect but it is usable.
I'm spoiled by the Fuji effort. Usable yes but I think it could have been so much more useful. :)
What's wrong with the EVF ?
It’s shit
@@HoLeeChit11 I'll put my mask on before using it then 😷
Hey great Video! Came from Mattias' channel. Camera looks like it takes really nice sharp deep color photos from the samples. Thanks for uploading!
Nice one, thanks James!!
At 100% view the foveons are the best images of any camera at any price (low iso raw).
Now I need to get my hands on some more cameras with foveon sensors!
It's true, but the quality also drops off rapidly in low light, and especially on certain channels there is more noise, which is where most of the noise comes from. Just view the RGB channels separately and you'll see that green is noisier than blue, and red is noisier than green. That's because of the design of the sensor. There is technically an ISO boost going on within the camera even at 100 ISO, because the red and green channels needs to be boosted in order to match the blue channel (i.e. the top layer of the sensor), otherwise the images would look like it has a blue filter on it. That's because you end up with light losses the further subsequent channels of light needs to penetrate the sensor.
And the problem with light in general is that when you get primary colors, the other channels naturally suffer from noise due to lack of signal. But that's kind of why the foveon shines, because it uses the same surface area for each channel, rather than 1/4 to 1/2 of a pixel like with Bayer. So technically an APSC foveon has twice the surface area on the green channel, and 4 times the surface area for red and blue channels, functionally making its pixels bigger than full frame, when it comes to individual color channels.
For me, I think the biggest drawback is the limited nature of the lens system. Not everyone wants to need to buy Sigma lenses, or adapt. And since the flange distance is soo long on the Sigma, you really can't mount lenses like Canon EF, you would need to change the mount on the lens itself. They really should have made the mount system more modular. I mean seriously, people don't want to throw away or sell hundreds or thousands of dollars worth of lenses just to get a new camera, especially a niche camera. Sigma's lenses also tend to be very pricey. Sure they have nice lenses, but a lot of their lenses are no better than much cheaper lenses.
The Non-H version that comes with a lens is nicely priced though. At $900, you're basically paying $600 for the camera and the $300 the lens costs separately. But still, that's not enough for those of us with existing non SA lenses. 30mm f/1.4 is nice, but I wouldn't want that as my main lens. If I had no equipment already, I'd buy it (or wait for the full frame version). But most camera buyers aren't first time buyers. Most first time buyers wouldn't even know about the Sigma either.
Sigma could take over the market with this sensor, to the point where Bayer would be a thing of the past.... in fact they should have taken over the market years ago. But I think it's just bad marketing decisions on their part. Foveon has been around for quite a while, but most people have never even heard of it.
@@peoplez129 The drawbacks to the sigma cams are legendary, but if you are a pixel peeper and want that crisp look, it's worth the limitations and at the price point it can be, for some, a no brainer purchase. The noise issues are usually, but sometimes, not that great at decent light, as you mention about low light. This is definitely not a cam system you would in good conscience recommend to anyone, but a dp Merrill in your pocket is a very nice addition to a day's shooting. I've taken my dp2 to death valley and basically ignored the other cameras I brought (that wow factor).
Muchas gracias amigo
De nada Sergio, con gusto
Thanks.
@Sigma is now part of the L-mount family, and the alliance is growing .... Leica + Panasonic + Sigma...
8 Cameras already : 4 Lumix(4 FF), 3 Leica (2 APSC, 1 FF), 1 Sigma (FF)... S5 is the last body addition
I am wondering
* L-mount, APSC/APSH Foveon or Bayer :
What's Sigma plan for a #Sigma Quattro / Sigma QuattroH replacement?
Wold you like to see a Quattro added to the L-mount system? What are the specs you will expect?
* L-mount, FF Foveon or Bayer :
After the Sigma FP (video/film centric), a replacement of the SD1 / SD1 Merrill, mirrorless version but still-centric with videos capabilities like the S1, S1R or SL2?
Thanks
Very good questions there! I need to address this properly I think!
@@DamianBrown Leica is pretty much for a niche of users who are ready to pay the premium price to have the Red Dot.
Leica is a bit above, at the top of the 2 other members of the alliance
Was wondering as well how the alliance members are going to work this, to avoid internal competition or cannibalization,.. like developing competencies...
(Like in M43 world : Panasonic cameras = video-centric, DFD vs Olympus cameras = more expensive, PDAF,)
Sigma fp vs Panasonic S1H?
Leica SL2 vs Panasonic S1R
Sigma and Panasonic lenses are cheaper than Leica Lenses...
With the S5, will leica users be happy to see this maker re-badge the S5 to offer a baby SL2 (or a baby Vader, Luke)...
BTW the photography market is shaking... is there room for more cameras?
@@pgulysse1 I personally feel, Sigma should just focus on Foveon cameras with the L mount. We don't need a rehash of the Panasonics and while the modular concept is great, it seems the response has not been all that favorable owing to the less than practical execution. Plenty of dedicated cinema options already, so we don't need one more This alliance can be made perfect, in my view, with Leica aiming for one end of the spectrum and Foveon based cameras at the other end with Panasonic balancing both with more traditional Bayer bodies. It could make for a great system of choices without cannibalization.
What an odd beast - the camera , not you LOL
Knowing that sigma make lenses compatible with all the major manufacturers I'd have thought they might have made a body that could be adapted to all of their lenses rather than coming up with their own mount ... I'd consider buying it if I could use my Canon Glass and as the DSLR workflow is already a total kludge compared to phone based cameras ... adding extra flakey software into it is just excruciating.
I'm sure the mount thing is a patent issue ... but one can dream I suppose :-)
Why does Sigma bother with these quirky cameras with sub par specs and little chance in the marketplace? I hear Sony's now working on a similar multi-layer sensor.
I'm always curious what everybody says the jpeg sucks what are they getting wrong in the processing that they can't make a decent jpeg
Raw snobs maybe? Some people think it's impossible otherwise, without actually trying it.
@@DamianBrown yeah I'd really like to see somebody push the jpegs and see what's possible I'm really tempted to get one there on sale. I might be able to swing it but I still need to decide if it's worth it I don't mind manual focus. Trying to figure out if the lenses worth it or adapting it's a better idea. I wonder how they do with flash I'd like to try some portraits.. you had no luck with jpegs there really that terrible at base iso.
Hi Damian. Do you have any idea of the difference between the SD Quattro and the SD15 or SD14 ? Ergonomics, photo quality, file types ? Are the second-hand SD14/15's good options for a lesser price, do you know at all ? Thanks! Eric
Super video made by an enthusiast. The Sigma is a quality piece of kit but wow you do need to know what you are getting. I love your honest delivery and have subscribed. Mike
Got mine today!!!
Enjoy!
The filtration and processing is just inferior to SD1 old true 3 layers.
Have the lens in Sony and Nikon mounts - like it!
Good call!
You got me Damian, nice chat
Thanks!
did you try update the firmware as that helps the autofocus a lot (the original firmware was slow).
Good call!
Damian Brown I've been using Sigma cameras for a while, if you need help or tips let me know.. I enjoyed the video :)
Good man Paul, thanks!
your welcome, just happy to see others thinking outside the box and giving the Sigma a try.
Indeed, I love photography as a whole, never just one brand. Of course I have a brand I use the most for my work but I have love for them all if they help me enjoy creating images. We are far too spoilt these days :)
Thanks!
Does it have video?
can this camera take an adapter and use nikon lenses, would anyone know?
Very good question. I'd have to google for a sigma fit to nikon adapter.
Thanks :)
video performance? Could that be it's strength?
Andy Seal ominous by its absence from my ramblings :) aka it doesn't do video
The sensor is it's main strength
Whaaaat?!
Thanks for replying and not to be contrary but I thought I saw an hdmi feed out.If it gives clean hdmi out and doesn't shut down automatically when not shooting,........ on the other hand already I feel like an external recorder is too much trouble for this camera.
I believe it's just for using a monitor, for stills live view only.
This camera is about reproducing the quality celluloid film has regarding colors - outperforms the Bayer and X-Trans sensors but with a cost regarding speed. Not for movie makers. If you shoot film, this is the best digital alternative. But not yet fully comparable, as is not yet as organic as film. Is like a robot interpreting a classic music.
Regarding film, if you look for the film look in your movies, the best alternative is to use Fujifilm X-T2 with one of the film simulations they offer.
Sigma is a specific tool, for a specific operation. You can't complain that you cannot build space ships with it....
What about the aps-h version ?
Cyril DESCOURSIERE the aps-h version delivers the same look but with more detail (around 30%) as it's based on the same technology but a larger chip.
www.dropbox.com/s/s5o2d1lrmhcoh4c/SDIM00092.jpg?dl=0
sdQ-H With 85mm Art wide open.
raw to jpg, no editing.
you used it in studio? Which triggers are there available? :D
Very funny review....Laughed a lot
Thanks!!!
Are you a bromy? I think I recognised a couple of places...
Born and bred Brummie yes!
I ended up buying the DP2 Merril because of everyones review about the image quality, and... I was not disappointed!...by the image quality. But the camera's performance in every other way was just horrible. Still, I keep going back to it because of that image quality. It gives me what I want to see in an image. Can a Sony A7R iii better it? I don't know. I haven't tried a Sony A7R. I'm sure it matters as to what you are used to. But if I see clarity and resolution, the image is on the way to satisfying my expectations. I get inspired by resolution. I think, "What's the point!" if I'm not getting inspired by the images I take.
Exactly! Most of us don't need the ultimate speed of a lot of these cameras! And I think some people love the tech more than the actual IQ!
Isit worth getting the SD Quattro H?
Haven't had as much time with it but it is very capable!
This or the dp2 Quattro???
iso in digital cameras is fake anyways... (so 100-800 is actually more honest than everything else)
Not convinced at all. If I wanted to slow things down I'd just shoot film. For that money you could get a decent medium format setup with a bit of shopping about and lets face it that's much cooler.
True, but then you need a good scanner to get the negs into digital, unless you plan to only print only on silver halide etc. And that's the point. Eventually most people with film cameras convert them to digital, so the image becomes digital not analogue. So what's the point? And I grew up with film and love it, but digital now exceeds "most" film I believe.