Sigma DP2: The Ultimate Camera for Professional PhotographyKeywords: Sigma DP2, Professional Photography, Camera

The Sigma DP2 is the perfect camera for professional photographers who want exceptional image quality and advanced features. With its high-resolution sensor and high-quality optics, the Sigma DP2 produces stunning images with incredible detail and sharpness. It is a versatile camera that offers a range of creative options, making it suitable for everything from landscape photography to portrait work.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Sigma DP2 article cover photo

Key Features

Sep 21 2009

Announced

5 megapixels

Resolution

BrandSigma
Sensor TypeAPS-C
SensorCMOS (Foveon X3)
Weight280g
MSRP$870USD

Other similar cameras

Sigma DP1s thumbnail

Sigma DP1s

Released Oct 02 2009 | 5MP resolution

Sigma DP1 thumbnail

Sigma DP1

Released May 19 2008 | 5MP resolution

Sigma DP2s thumbnail

Sigma DP2s

Released Feb 20 2010 | 5MP resolution

Overview of the DP2

The Sigma DP2 is a game-changer in the world of professional photography. Its high-resolution sensor and advanced optics produce stunning images with exceptional detail and clarity. The Sigma DP2 is designed for professional use, offering a range of features that are tailored to the needs of serious photographers. Whether you're a landscape photographer or a portrait artist, the Sigma DP2 delivers the performance and quality that you need to capture the perfect shot. In this blog, we'll explore the key features of the Sigma DP2 and explain why it's the ultimate camera for professional photography. Let's dive in!

Sigma DP2 Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Sigma DP2 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
Large image sensor provides more detail
Fast autofocus
Sharp and accurate images
Solid build quality
High-quality lens
Compact and portable
Good dynamic range
Affordable compared to similar cameras
Great for street photography

Cons

Slow performance
Poor low-light performance
Limited ISO range
No image stabilization
Slow image processing
Limited battery life
Limited video capabilities
No dust or weather sealing
Limited autofocus points
No wireless connectivity.

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Sigma DP2

Weather sealed
Dimensions113 x 60 x 56mm
Weight280g
Thickness56mm
Weight
Min
Avg
This
Max
Thickness
Min
Avg
This
Max

Weather Sealing

The Sigma DP2 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 DP2 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 DP2 does not include a viewfinder. The lack of a viewfinder on the DP2 camera may make it less suitable for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Sigma DP2 has a 5MP sized CMOS (Foveon X3) sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 5 pixels. Sigma DP2 has a native ISO range of 200 - 3200 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

Sep 21 2009

Announced

200 - 3200

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 DP2 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 DP2 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/SDHC/MMC card
Battery Life
Battery Model
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Sigma DP2 supports SD/SDHC/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 DP2 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 DP2 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 DP2 boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/2000s, 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 DP2 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.

View on Amazon

FAQ

What is the sensor size of the Sigma DP2?

The Sigma DP2 features a CMOS (Foveon X3) sensor

Is the Sigma DP2 weather sealed?

No the DP2 does not have weather sealing.

When was the Sigma DP2 announced?

The Sigma DP2 was announced on Sep 21 2009

Does the Sigma DP2 have in-body image stabilization?

No the DP2 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 DP2?

The DP2 has a native ISO range of 200-3200, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

View on Amazon

Similar Camera Reviews

Sigma DP1 article cover photo

Capture Stunning Images with Sigma DP1: A Detailed Review

This blog post is a comprehensive review of the Sigma DP1 camera - a high-quality camera that is popular in the photography community. We'll explore its key features, benefits, and drawbacks, and why it's a great option for serious photographers who want to capture stunning images and push their creativity to the limits.

Sigma DP2s article cover photo

In-Depth Review: The Sigma DP2s Camera - Capturing Stunning Images

In this comprehensive review, we take a closer look at the Sigma DP2s camera and explore its advanced features and capabilities. From its impressive image quality to its user-friendly design, this camera is packed with features that make it a great choice for both amateur and professional photographers.