Sigma has made a number of new product announcement in advance of the CP+ Imaging Show, which opens in Japan tomorrow.
Side view of the new Sigma dp0 Quattro camera, which features a 14mm f/4 lens. (Source: Sigma.)
The first relates to the dp0 Quattro camera, the fourth model in the series, which was launched at CP+ last year. Widening the available angle-of-view range, the dp0 Quattro has a fixed, high performance 14mm f/4 lens, which is equivalent to a 21mm lens on a 35mm camera. The lens is optimised to take full advantage of the Foveon sensor, which is used in all four cameras. Its optical design features four “F” Low Dispersion (FLD) glass elements, which have performance equal to fluorite, along with two Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements and two aspheric lenses, including a wide double-sided aspheric lens. This combination reduces chromatic aberration and distortion, while the telecentric optical design improves image quality throughout the frame. The wide angle of view of 91 degrees and wide depth of field are ideal for architectural structures, interior photography and landscapes.
With four cameras now in the line-up, photographers can select the most suitable camera based on their photographic needs with the dp0 Quattro 14mm f/4 lens, dp1 Quattro 19mm f/2.8 lens, dp2 Quattro 30mm f/2.8 lens and dp3 Quattro 50mm f/2.8 lens.
The new 1.2x conversion lens that is being developed for the dp3 Quattro camera. (Source: Sigma.)
A Sigma has also developed a dedicated 1.2x conversion lens (FT-1201) that extends the effective focal length of the dp3 Quattro to 90mm. In other development announcements, the company has released details of the BASE GRIP BG-11 for the dp Quattro series of cameras. When it is attached to the screw hole on the bottom surface of the camera, it allows handgrip-style of shooting. It is compact and convenient and therefore very easy to carry. The bottom part of the Base Grip BG-11 has a screw hole so that it can attach directly to a tripod. No release date has been set for these accessories.
The latest addition to Sigma’s Art lens line-up, the 24mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens. (Source: Sigma.)
A new lens, the 24mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens, will be added to Sigma’s range at a date that has still to be specified. Designed primarily for full-frame DSLRs, it can also be used on digital cameras with an APS-C size image sensor, where it effectively covers a 38mm equivalent angle of view. It incorporates both FLD glass and SLD glass in a design of 15 elements in 11 groups to minimise chromatic aberration, especially around the edge of the image field. An optimised power layout includes aspherical elements at the rear of the lens for improved wide open performance. This helps to ensure minimal distortion through the correction of axial chromatic aberration and sagittal coma flare. The new lens design also delivers excellent peripheral brightness.
Other updates to this lens include the full-time manual focusing mechanism introduced on the 50mm Art, which switches to manual focusing by rotating the focus ring, even when AF is being used. This allows the photographer to make focus adjustments quickly and easily. As with all new lenses under the Global Vision categories, every 24mm will be tested using Sigma’s own MTF measuring system, “A1,” in the company’s factory in Japan. The 24mm F1.4 is compatible with Sigma’s USB dock, allowing photographers to update the lens’ firmware and change focus parameters as well as manual focus over-ride using Sigma’s Optimization Pro software. It is also compatible with Sigma’s Mount Conversion Service. The lens will be available in Canon, Nikon and Sigma mounts, with timing, pricing and availability to be announced at a later date.
The final development announcement concerns a tripod socket TS-81 that is the optional lens foot which can be attached to the Sigma 150-600mm f/-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports lens. It is compatible with the Arca Swiss quick release plate and the clamp. The deliberately designed length of its rail provides the flexibility to adjust the centre of gravity for perfect balance, including while zooming or using accessories, such as a tele converter and battery pack. The lens hood can be reversed and the lens stored in its original padded case, even with the Tripod Socket TS-81 attached. Incorporated into the Tripod Socket are safety stopper screws to prevent the lens from falling. There are two sizes of screw holes, 1/4 and 3/8, making it compatible with tripods other than Arca Swiss. No release date has been set for this accessory.
Full details can be found on Sigma’s website at http://www.sigmaphoto.com/.
