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.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Sigma DP2s article cover photo

Key Features

Feb 20 2010

Announced

5 megapixels

Resolution

BrandSigma
Sensor TypeAPS-C
SensorCMOS (Foveon X3)
Weight280g
MSRP$699USD

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Overview of the DP2s

The Sigma DP2s camera is a powerful and versatile tool for photographers of all levels. With its advanced sensors, high-quality optics, and ergonomic design, this camera offers exceptional quality and performance for capturing stunning images. But what makes the Sigma DP2s truly stand out is its innovative technology and user-friendly features that streamline the process of capturing the perfect shot. In this review, we'll dive into the world of the Sigma DP2s and explore all that it has to offer.

Sigma DP2s Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Sigma DP2s 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

High resolution Foveon X3 sensor
Sharp and detailed images
Compact and portable design
Wide ISO range for low-light photography
Full manual control over settings
Good value for a niche market

Cons

Slow autofocus
Limited lens options
Poor battery life
Not suitable for action or fast-paced photography
No image stabilization
Not beginner-friendly with a steep learning curve

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Sigma DP2s

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

The Sigma DP2s 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 DP2s 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 DP2s does not include a viewfinder. The lack of a viewfinder on the DP2s camera may make it less suitable for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Sigma DP2s has a 5MP sized CMOS (Foveon X3) sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 5 pixels. Sigma DP2s has a native ISO range of 50 - 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

Feb 20 2010

Announced

50 - 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 DP2s 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 DP2s 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 DP2s 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 DP2s 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 DP2s 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 DP2s 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 DP2s 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 DP2s?

The Sigma DP2s features a CMOS (Foveon X3) sensor

Is the Sigma DP2s weather sealed?

No the DP2s does not have weather sealing.

When was the Sigma DP2s announced?

The Sigma DP2s was announced on Feb 20 2010

Does the Sigma DP2s have in-body image stabilization?

No the DP2s 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 DP2s?

The DP2s has a native ISO range of 50-3200, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

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