Blog Exploring the Power of the Sigma DP1s Camera for Stunning Photography

The Sigma DP1s camera has been a popular choice among photography enthusiasts for its exceptional image quality, portability, and versatility. This blog will dive deep into the features and functionalities of the camera that make it a top contender in the market.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Sigma DP1s article cover photo

Key Features

Oct 02 2009

Announced

5 megapixels

Resolution

BrandSigma
Sensor TypeAPS-C
SensorCMOS (Foveon X3)
Weight270g
MSRP$649USD

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Overview of the DP1s

Are you looking for a camera that can produce high-quality images with vibrant colors and sharp details? Look no further than the Sigma DP1s camera. This compact and portable camera packs a punch with its advanced features and functionalities that promise to enhance your photography skills. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of using the Sigma DP1s camera for stunning photography. From its superior image sensor to its advanced autofocus system, we will take a closer look at what sets this camera apart from the competition. So, let's dive right in and explore what the Sigma DP1s camera has to offer!

Sigma DP1s Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Sigma DP1s camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!

Pros

Exceptional image quality
Compact and lightweight
Large sensor size
Sharp lens
Good battery life
RAW format support
Manual controls
Affordable price

Cons

Slow autofocus
Limited zoom range
Video recording not available
Auto white balance can be inaccurate
Low ISO performance
Limited accessories
No image stabilization
Limited low light performance

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Sigma DP1s

Weather sealed
Dimensions109 x 60 x 31mm
Weight270g
Thickness31mm
Weight
Min
Avg
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Max
Thickness
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Weather Sealing

The Sigma DP1s is not sealed against water and dust, so it's important to be careful when using it in such conditions. If you often shoot in environments with water or dust, it's recommended to check out another camera with weather sealing.

Design and Handling

Main design features

View FinderNone
Screen TypeFixed Type
Screen Resolution230k dots
Body typeLarge sensor compact

Suitable for:

PhotographyAbove Avg.
VideographyAbove Avg.
TravelAbove Avg.

LCD Screen

This camera has a fixed type 2.50" screen, with a display resolution of 230k dots. This makes the Sigma DP1s not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.

Viewfinder

Sigma DP1s does not include a viewfinder. The lack of a viewfinder on the DP1s camera may make it less suitable for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Sigma DP1s has a 5MP sized CMOS (Foveon X3) sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 5 pixels. Sigma DP1s has a native ISO range of 100 - 800 which can be boosted to null - null. It can also save files in RAW format which gives you a wider room for post processing.

Key Features

Oct 02 2009

Announced

100 - 800

ISO Range

SensorAPS-C
Extended ISOnull - null
Max resolution2640 x 1760 pixels

DXO Sensor Scores

Overall

not tested

Color Depth

not tested

Dynamic Range

not tested

Low Light ISO

not tested

DXO mark sensor scores

The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Sigma DP1s camera has excellent color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also excellent, allowing it to retain high amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is excellent, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the DP1s is excellent

Crop Factor

Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.

Size comparison

Medium FormatFull FrameAPS-C (Sony, Nikon)

Crop factor calculator

Crop factor

1x

Full frame equivalent

24mm

This camera: APS-C

24mm

850100150200

Connectivity, storage, battery

StorageSD/MMC card
Battery Life
Battery Model
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Sigma DP1s supports SD/MMC card with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.

Battery

The Sigma DP1s uses the undefined model of undefined. This is rated for undefined shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.

Photography Features

Flash

The Sigma DP1s has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. It also offers a flash shoe that allows you to attach external flashes. This provides more versatility in your lighting choices.

Shutter

The Sigma DP1s boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/4000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.

With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.

Autofocus

The Sigma DP1s includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with null number of focus points.

While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.

Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.

On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.

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FAQ

What is the sensor size of the Sigma DP1s?

The Sigma DP1s features a CMOS (Foveon X3) sensor

Is the Sigma DP1s weather sealed?

No the DP1s does not have weather sealing.

When was the Sigma DP1s announced?

The Sigma DP1s was announced on Oct 02 2009

Does the Sigma DP1s have in-body image stabilization?

No the DP1s does not have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.

What is the ISO range of the Sigma DP1s?

The DP1s has a native ISO range of 100-800, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

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