Key Features
Nov 26 2002
Announced
3 megapixels
Resolution
Brand | Sigma |
Sensor Type | APS-C |
Sensor | CMOS (Foveon X3) |
Weight | 950g |
MSRP | $1899USD |
Other similar cameras
Overview of the SD9
Are you tired of your camera producing subpar images despite its high price tag? Look no further than the Sigma SD9. This camera is a favorite among professional photographers for its impressive technology and unsurpassed image quality. With advanced features such as a 3-layer image sensor and True II Image Processor, the SD9 offers unparalleled color reproduction and sharpness. In this blog, we will explore the technical aspects of the Sigma SD9, highlighting its top-notch features and capabilities. Whether you are looking to up your photography game or simply appreciate superior image quality, the Sigma SD9 is the camera for you.
Sigma SD9 Pros and Cons
Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Sigma SD9 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
Cons
Build and Construction
Body and dimensions
Sigma SD9
Weather sealed | |
Dimensions | 152 x 120 x 79mm |
Weight | 950g |
Thickness | 79mm |
Weather Sealing
The Sigma SD9 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 Finder | Optical (pentaprism) |
Screen Type | Fixed Type |
Screen Resolution | 130k dots |
Body type | Mid-size SLR |
Suitable for:
Photography | Above Avg. |
Videography | Above Avg. |
Travel | Above Avg. |
LCD Screen
This camera has a fixed type 1.80" screen, with a display resolution of 130k dots. This makes the Sigma SD9 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
SD9 includes a optical (pentaprism) viewfinder with no electronic viewfinder of resolution with a coverage of 98% and a magnification of 0.77x. This feature enhances the camera's suitability for outdoor photography in bright conditions.
Image Quality
Sigma SD9 has a 3MP sized CMOS (Foveon X3) sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 3 pixels. Sigma SD9 has a native ISO range of 100 - 400 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
Nov 26 2002
Announced
100 - 400
ISO Range
Sensor | APS-C |
Extended ISO | null - null |
Max resolution | 2268 x 1512 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 SD9 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 SD9 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
Crop factor calculator
Crop factor
1x
Full frame equivalent
24mm
This camera: APS-C
24mm
Connectivity, storage, battery
Storage | Compact Flash Type I or II |
Battery Life | |
Battery Model |
HDMI | |
USD | |
Wireless Connectivity |
Storage
The Sigma SD9 supports Compact Flash Type I or II 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 SD9 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 SD9 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 SD9 boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/6000s, 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 SD9 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.
FAQ
The Sigma SD9 features a CMOS (Foveon X3) sensor
No the SD9 does not have weather sealing.
The Sigma SD9 was announced on Nov 26 2002
No the SD9 does not have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.
The SD9 has a native ISO range of 100-400, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.