Unleashing the Power of Sigma DP2 Merrill Camera: A Detailed Review

Are you looking for a camera that delivers exceptional image quality and outstanding details? Look no further than the Sigma DP2 Merrill camera. This powerful camera comes with a host of features that promise to take your photography game to new heights. In this review, we'll give you an in-depth look at the Sigma DP2 Merrill camera and tell you exactly why it's perhaps the best camera for your next photography adventure.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Sigma DP2 Merrill article cover photo

Key Features

Feb 08 2012

Announced

15 megapixels

Resolution

BrandSigma
Sensor TypeAPS-C
SensorCMOS (Foveon X3)
Weight330g
MSRP$999USD

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Overview of the DP2 Merrill

Photography is an art, and like any other art form, mastering it requires the right tools. And when it comes to photography gear, the Sigma DP2 Merrill camera is one of the best there is. Armed with an impressive 46-megapixel sensor, this camera is guaranteed to deliver exceptional image quality and stunning details with every shot. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. The Sigma DP2 Merrill camera comes packed with a ton of features that will change the way you take photos. In this review, we'll take a deep dive into the world of Sigma DP2 Merrill camera and show you why it offers such great value for money.

Sigma DP2 Merrill Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Sigma DP2 Merrill 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

Sharpness and detail
Foveon sensor
Good dynamic range
Compact size
Accurate colors

Cons

Slow autofocus
Limited ISO range
Fixed lens
Short battery life
No viewfinder

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Sigma DP2 Merrill

Weather sealed
Dimensions122 x 67 x 59mm
Weight330g
Thickness59mm
Weight
Min
Avg
This
Max
Thickness
Min
Avg
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Max

Weather Sealing

The Sigma DP2 Merrill 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 Resolution920k dots
Body typeLarge sensor compact

Suitable for:

PhotographyAbove Avg.
VideographyAbove Avg.
TravelAbove Avg.

LCD Screen

This camera has a fixed type 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 920k dots. This makes the Sigma DP2 Merrill 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 Merrill does not include a viewfinder. The lack of a viewfinder on the DP2 Merrill camera may make it less suitable for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Sigma DP2 Merrill has a 15MP sized CMOS (Foveon X3) sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 15 pixels. Sigma DP2 Merrill has a native ISO range of 100 - 6400 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

Feb 08 2012

Announced

100 - 6400

ISO Range

SensorAPS-C
Extended ISOnull - null
Max resolution4704x3136 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 Merrill 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 Merrill 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

Storage
Battery Life
Battery Model
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Sigma DP2 Merrill supports undefined 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 Merrill 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 Merrill does not have a built-in flash, but it does offer a flash shoe that allows you to attach external flashes. This provides more versatility in your lighting choices.

Shutter

The Sigma DP2 Merrill boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of n/a, 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

Sigma DP2 Merrill does not have autofocus (AF)

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 DP2 Merrill?

The Sigma DP2 Merrill features a CMOS (Foveon X3) sensor

Is the Sigma DP2 Merrill weather sealed?

No the DP2 Merrill does not have weather sealing.

When was the Sigma DP2 Merrill announced?

The Sigma DP2 Merrill was announced on Feb 08 2012

Does the Sigma DP2 Merrill have in-body image stabilization?

No the DP2 Merrill 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 Merrill?

The DP2 Merrill has a native ISO range of 100-6400, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

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