Nice video! The first generation had 2 dps, the second 3 and the third 4. You can do high iso with the Dp Merrill cameras in B&W if you like high ISO film look with grain. One trick in SPP is to choose 100% blue in the monochrome menu. Then you use the data from the top layer and not in the lower levels. This means you get much less noise. Test by changing to 100% red to see. The light is moving through the sensor so one have drop off and noise at the bottom. This trick only work with Merrill files. For me it is always the outcome that matters most, so I don't mind it's slow operation. Photography is my zen after all.
This a fantastic bit of info! I didn’t realize until after posting that I hadn’t even touched on the incredible black and white capabilities. Definitely pinning this. Thank you for sharing.
Hey Innstikk, why would this only work with Merrill files? Although there will be comparatively less noise in the red and green Quattro layers, why wouldn't it work there also?
@Ric Blessing It should work with Quattro, but Sigma made the wheel work differently for Quattro. So far I only see the effect with Merrill files. I guess it could be as the two lower layers have less resolution in the Quattro sensor, they are already using the top layer to get to the toplay resolution. I don't know their decisions, but at least it works for Merrill. Merrill is also very nice for B&W due to they way they implemented the microcontrast.
But wait, there’s more. If you are into B&W photography and rely on color filters, Sigma Merrill series cameras do double duty as a monochrome sensor or B&W film - a unique feature for a digital image sensor.
Writing as an owner of the whole trinity of these cameras I have to declare that you nailed this review of the Sigma DP2 Merrill. Getting the most from these cameras is absolutely a painful, "grievance-laden" (as you said) proposition. But ooh-la-lah these Foveon's can produce jaw-dropping colors and resolution in the right circumstances. (I say this as someone who uses THREE medium-format digital systems regularly!) I made two of my favorite images ever with the DP3 Merrill. So thanks so much for your review. Anyone considering grabbing one of these cameras should pay very close to your words. And also thanks for producing such a really engaging channel of these old digital camera reviews. I stumbled upon you about a year ago and always welcome new presentations from you. I find your style and organization absolutely informative, entertaining and compelling. And you are quite adept with a camera. You indirectly prove the adage that skilled, talented people can, and will, make compelling images with ANY camera at-hand. I've no idea what your vocation is but it must involve professional imagery. Thanks for sharing your time and experiences.
I have had this camera since maybe 2014 or 2015 when it could be purchased new, but I have not used in a while. I just checked my old notes and found these tips on exposure: - If you have a scene that doesn't have much DR, use ISO 100, but if you have a wide range of brightness, use ISO 200 - At ISO 100, you can overexpose by 1 to 1.5 stops. At ISO 200, you can overexpose by 1.5 to 2 stops. - To restore highlights, you can add some fill light (about +0.3) and decrease the exposure slider to -1 (or more) stops until highlights are restored, export to Lightroom, and increase the exposure by +1.0 to restore darker areas.
I'm worried about getting one used because of the lenses getting stuck on these cameras. Have you come across that issue while owning it? Or do the DP Merrills generally not have that issue?
I don't believe Sigma will ever produce the full frame Foveon camera. It's been in development hell since 2019, and IF it does release, it will be extremely expensive to cover the development costs. The last interview with the CEO didn't sound promising. The Merrill generation, which I've owned all of including the SD1, are by far the best Foveon cameras, with the DP2 having the most superior optics. These are the only cameras I've ever owned that when reviewing the images I've audibly gasped and said "Wow". In the right conditions, they are nothing short of magic. I've been dreaming of a full frame version for a decade.
@@unbroken1010 Perhaps. I prefer the image quality of the X3 Merrill generation over the Quattro sensor. The Quattro trades off true Foveon architecture for reduced noise and therefore does not absorb 100% color on each layer as opposed to the X3. As far as the sensor size, I prefer full frame due to DOF and lens compatibility. With a larger surface area for the sensor, the light sensitivity should also greatly improve as well as noise levels at higher ISOs. That is the key reason for Sigma's attempt at a full frame sensor. Ditching the SA mount for the L mount will be the biggest upgrade by far.
Your images are always beautiful. Regardless of the system, you’re clearly just an extremely skilled photographer. Keep up the great videos. So many of your reviews are for items I lusted after when I was younger but can now afford. It’s great finding a community of people who appreciate this brilliant older kit!
Great release! As the owner of sigma dp3m I would like to add... Shooting at high ISOs is possible in VPS mode (which new cameras in IPhone and Sony have now begun to adopt). When using the viewfinder and setting the brightness level to minimum, the battery lasts twice as long (number of frames) even in winter! It is also possible to power the camera in winter from an external power bank through an original accessory! Well... we've been waiting for a full frame Foveon for many years!!! Many thanks to the author for the review! And great photos!!! per aspera ad astra , Ali!
Very good , enjoyed that. For me the Merrill series worked when I had spare cash, spare time and enthusiasm for photography peaked. I had all 3 merrills, sold 2 and vowed never to sell the DP2M which I still have sat above my desk on a shelf waiting for the day I have the time and enthusiasm again. The images are wow from the Foveon sensor. It takes a mind set to run that camera and I think any enthusiast has it a some point in time its just mating the two together.
It’s not only that I could listen to you for hours, the pictures you’re showing are very enticing. And a lot of the comments here too. Will have to do some research. So glad, that YT suggested your channel!
What a wonderful comment! Thank you for being here and welcome to the community. It’s the reason the comments are so good; a wonderful group for an active dialogue.
My fav camera. Was told by my professor that my images were too artsy for commercial photography. I dont have a desktop and travel, so i rely on jpegs. Love b&w on this camera. I need a DP0 Merrill to go with this camera. Going to try your Ricoh wide angle lens. Learned so much from your video. Thanks!
Oh man, this video is awesome. You are so into this camera and I'm living for it! Yes please make that video on how you use your speedlights. I'm deeply into them.
Nice review. You've nailed the exquisite torture of using Sigma cameras. For all their many quirks and flaws, they have an uncanny ability to produce (quite literally) jaw dropping images - usually only revealed when the files are viewed on the computer (which makes that stage all the more rewarding). I've had examples of the last three sensor generations and still have the three dp Merrills and an Sd1 (definitely worth a look). Using these cameras is like learning to drive in a VW Beetle - it's not easy but you come out a better driver/photographer. The unforgiving dynamic range, for example, means that you just have to get better at exposure. And the Sigma experience also makes you better appreciate your other gear - my main body is an A7r2 and it's often criticised for poor battery life, but alongside a dp Merrill its batteries seem to last forever. One very useful workaround I've found for the appalling battery life is to track down the AC adaptor (a battery shaped insert with a cable). It's great for studio work, but where it shines is that you can relatively easily connect it to one of those portable phone chargers for outdoor use. A bit more stuff to lug around but it gives you the luxury of using the camera without watching the bars on the battery meter disappear before your eyes. One final thing - and a segue to another camera you should seek out if you haven't already - the dp Merrill batteries work in the ricoh gx100 (which, in terms of usability, is everything the Merrills are not, and also happens to take very nice pics).
Thanks for the DP2M review! I used to have one of these, and from what I can recall, this camera produces fantastic B&W photos, thanks to Sigma's SPP software Monochrome capabilities - they are huge! I had never seen anything close to DP2M in terms of BW performance.
I am still convinced and optimistic at the same time that Sigma will make a non "black sheep" camera in the future that is actually updated to today's standard and creates good competition with other manufacturers. Amen🙏🏻🤔
Thank you for keeping knowledge of Sigma cameras alive. I have Dp1x, Dp2, Dp 1, 2, 3 Merrill, Dp0 Quattro, SD Quattro. I use Sigma WR Filter instead of lens cap too. ISO 100 is best, but in low light I frequently handhold Merrill and Quattro at 1/13 or even 1/10 with high success. You can do TTL with Cactus V6II trigger and Cactus RF60X Flash. The flash is discontinued but can still be found used. Works on Merrill and Quattro.
Well done. I use a loupe as well but if I'm not shooting street but rather landscape or macro, I hook up my DP Merrills to a field monitor. It totally gets away from the issues with the weak lcd. You get a much crisper view and you can use features like focus peaking with manual focus for critical work and you expand your exposure controls with zebras. It's basically like adding firmware. As you mentioned, the slow process with Foveon bodies is like large format so I'll occasionally invert the monitor view for the OG LF experience, lol. If you have the cable that came with the DP2M, just find a monitor with RCA inputs, they're pretty cheap. Grab a magic arm and bolt it to your tripod and you're good to go.
@Phillip Banes with the DP Merrills I used an Aputure VS-2 7 inch since it was the only one I had with RCA inputs. It will do up to HD (1920x1200) resolution but the video feed from the Merrill cameras is only VGA (640x480).
This is THE BEST review of this genial camera. Very sad that they dont develop it. They at least could improve the battery life, speed of work and create smth like Sigma merrill 2 mark ii;)
I have this camera and have for a good while. What I've learned from using it: Black and White is wonderful and you can push ISO more here than in color.
Thank you very much for your videos. Love it. And I really enjoy your photos, compositions and development choices. I have the DP Quattro since 2017 and grace of your videos, I just recently understand better how to edit my photos in SPP (so painful to use) the right way. Thank you so much.
A few resources that may be helpful for flash photography. Strobist with David Hobby. The gold stqandard for off camera flash and free. Tangents, off camera flash. great newsletter. Flash Zebra for all the cords adaptors for old and new flash. Also, most inexpensive wireless flash triggers will work. You can use a canon to trigger Fuji and Nikon. Just use manual flash setting.
A really compelling, entertaining and informative review of one of my favorite cameras of all time, got it twice and only sold it when I finally managed to stumble into a "good" sample of SD1M (in terms of AF reliability I mean), then of course missed the reduced footprint of the DP but decided to give the DP3M a try and boy, its lens it's even a tad sharper than the one of the DP2M, it truly can squeeze out the tiniest detail out of that Foveon sensor (I think Sigma also slightly tweaked the colors, they look more pleasing to my eyes vs the DP2M files OCC). I really like your channel and your style, keep up the good work! Cheers
This is gold! Thank you for sharing your editing process. I have been thinking about selling my DP2 and DP3 for a while now and now I will give them another chance. I just find editing of those files the very frustrating so even though I know the IQ can be outstanding, I just never pick it up when going outside.
@@phillipbanes5484 yes but many times, if you do it like that, you can not remove a green cast. It is best practice to do just final edits in Lightroom, similar to like she does it.
Wonderful review. I in fact just posted my very first TH-cam video about these Merrill DP cameras. Kind of a review, but really more of a showcase of photos I’ve taken over the years with all 3. I agree with everything you’ve said about them. They are addictive, intoxicating, and frustrating all at the the same time.
Got one, new when the prices dropped back in the day. All said here about it ... Never messed with the software, I just use it as an replacement of a 50mm 35mm camera. It's quite like that, and I think it's the idea behind the product. It does like a camera from the 80s, including the need for sunshine. I like the concept of fixed focus, the natural view. I run it from a 18650, made a custom battery handgrip. Experimented with a flash too, indoor pictures are so sharp, compared to pocket cameras. Note these are prone to dust. They came with visible particles inside the lens out of the box. No problem at this point, but the camera should be handled accordingly. I always keep it in a zip bag.
I own A Hasselblad X2D 100mp medium format camera, yet its the Merrills, particularly the DP2M, that I prefer to use for many purposes, including travel photography. The DP2M is also the perfect camera to use for stitched panoramas and if you do want even more resolution, try Topaz Gigapixel AI. Utterly brilliant camera.
@@OneMonthTwoCameras I'm a Associate of the Royal Photographic Society, and the cameras I used to take the images for my successful panel submission were the DP2m and DP1M. I travelled to Morocco and shot using the Merrills mainly in Fez, Chefchaouen and Meknes, including the darkest reaches of the Fez Medina!
@@QuentinBargate oh wow! First congrats and second, I’ve had the privilege to travel to all but one of those cities and can only imagine how the sigmas would render those scenes 😍
So nice to see the DP2 Merrill again... I still own the whole trinity of the DP Merrills since I just couldn't let them go. Too bad that it's just a pain to process those marvelous RAW files in Sigma Photo Pro. Even on a beefy machine it takes the fun out of it since it's so slow. Lately I learned that Affinity Photo is able to process these RAW files but just doesn't get you the same level of control. Nonetheless it makes working with the files a lot easier.
It’s funny that I have actually come to embrace and enjoy the very clunky process of working with SPP. it gives me the same kind of joy that I had from the tedious process of scanning, which most people hate, but I actually always loved. And SPP is definitely still easier than that :)
I have the DP3 Merrill, and will continue to hold on to it. I use it mostly for close up photography, and I often use a black felt background when doing flower still life photos (like you mentioned, the blacks looks amazing somehow on this camera). The detail is still impressive, and the colors can be amazing with the right subject. I also agree, that it is not a good portrait camera... it is too sharp and shows to much skin detail.
It's the only digital film camera and together with the merrill dp3 my go to travel cams since release, I love them. :D I also use it for festivals and birthday parties, with an old small flash of ebay (from the 70s) the images look so unique and vintage. But I've never thought of having "lens options" will try that, thank you. 👍👍 Great Video!
I'd love a video on manual strobe...And thanks for this one. I have mixed feelings about my dp1 merrill partly because I don't like 28mm as much as I thought I did, but largely of course because of the huge massive downsides to these cameras. Special files though.
I use the Sigma LVF-11 LCD viewfinder on my Sigma fp - just like what you're showing - and it's wonderfully immersive. I also keep my DP2M at ISO 100. Yep, terrible battery life. But great results when it all comes together. I sometimes use the small flash designed for it, from Sigma. Great review! -Tom
The Merrill’s ans the à Quattros are the best portable cameras ever produced in terms of IQ. The apsc and apsh sensors provide film like image quality with extreme resolution.
Loved your street shots! As much as I love the images you were able to get out of this camera, I would be one of the ones that would be super frustrated by all the camera’s downsides, instead of embracing the process.
Great review! It's interesting how differently you use the Foveons compared to me... I like to use them as transparency film. So I always try to shoot under shadow, minimizing the dynamic range, and almost touching nothing in the Sigma software, whether you use them as negative film, under harsh lighting, and recovering as much as possible with the software. I always thought that these marvels were made to be used as I do, because they must have been made for Japan's light, which is not harsh most of the time, with lots of moisture in the air and soft mists, and everything traditional is so green and red with deep shadows, but I have to admit, that what you show here really looks quite like negative film! I have the three of them, and I've been traveling with them for 10 years now, they force me to take pictures in a very specific way, and sometimes I feel like as a photographer I should expand myself and go for something different, but I've tried a lot of different cameras, Sonys, Micro 4/3, Fujifilms, and all the time I get very disappointed with colors and IQ, and always end up coming back to my sigmas even with my 49er presbyopian eyes.
Add another camera to my wish list... About to go out to shoot the Canon G11 for my next video. Would love to try out some older digital medium format. Great breakdown and you got some incredible photos! The one of your credenza by the window was 🙌🙌🙌
@Phillip Banes yes,. There Fine. No one knows a difference on a small print. Resolution is indistinguishable.. the effects are great too. Dng is not much different either
@Phillip Banes again, not in the slightest if your doing under 11 by 14. On the later models . no one viewing your work knows the difference. Content trumps mp any day of the week in documentary.
So grateful for your Sigma videos, Ali, the cameras have been on my radar for a long time but in general information is kind of sparse and especially sample pictures have been rare. Which is weird, considering how nice the pictures look-although obviously a lot of that is that I like your style of photography. That grip looks like it would be comfortable, I found with the Leica T that despite it looking mostly flat, it’s strangely ergonomic to hold. Great portrait of Jason, I guess Caleb missed out on his shot :) The thing where the picture looks out of focus when you first shoot it, I experience that on my Pentax Q10 (and TL2 when adapting lenses). I guess it’s probably a processor speed thing where it would take too long if it had to fully render it before image playback, so it just does the bare minimum for framing review and then concentrates on writing the file. Also, just want to say, good on Wasabi for sponsoring you. They make products I use every day, and they’re supporting channels like yours and Snappiness, which is awesome. Anyway sorry for the long comment but I guess I haven’t mastered the art of distilling my thoughts on a half hour video down to one sentence. All the best! -Chris
Thank you Chris! I love long comments and appreciate all your thoughts here. I have also experienced the screen focus thing on my other older cameras and you’re right, that’s probably the processing. And as for the Jason shot, Caleb actually took that photo so he got his shot, literally :P
I enjoyed your video. Thanks for the inspiration. I haven't touched my DP2M for a while. I miss these files even if the process is very slow (I also shoot 120 rolls sometimes so not that slow); making B&W is also amazing (as mentioned in another comment). Your tips about the Sigma PhotoPro are very useful (I forgot how to use it) and I also use a viewfinder (by Kamerar). At some point, I'm sure I'd try to find a DP3M (the lens looks beautiful and the colors doesn't look as cold). A shame that the manual focus is so bad.
Great review, thank you, and completely on the button. I have both the DP1M and DP3M, a conscious decisions on both, and I agree that these cameras should come with a bit of a “User Beware” notice - the processing has to be seen as part of the whole experience. But the results … can be amazing. I wouldn’t part with mine.
The Sigma DP3 Merrill is the sharpest off them all and you can get a dummy battery to the Sigma Merill series and hock it up to a big powerbank and shoot picture all day long.And they are some cheap grip you can buy for them as well :)
DP Merrill is a great camera. And yes, it is very slow moving camera but it got its own charm for being slow. But I just couldn't stand SPP. I have moderately, probably very much top of the line workstation for digital artist and it still is unbearably slow. I get out from the software by exporting to tiff file as soon as I can and move on to other editing software. But if you can some how be patient enough to not give up until that point, it sure gives you amazing result that is second to none.
But I like using the LCD! And I’m happy with the AF too - it works just fine (with the focus limiter on). I take a lot of photographs from a coracle (a small flat-bottomed boat), so I’m used to the scenery shifting around when I let go of my paddle and pick up the Merrill. Holding the camera away from me is proving more practical and photographically much more interesting than having my eye clamped on a VF - compositionally, for instance, I’ve learnt to let go of fine detail and concentrate on structural relationships between darks and lights. The 3x3 grid is great for that (and the annoying glare off the LCD is a problem no longer!) Works well for me off the water too.
19:20 i was thinking about getting this tripod but then realised it would be practical to get one with a removable plate as it would reduce the time it takes the cam on or off the tripod significantly. any thoughts on that? (btw: some of these amzn links don’t seem to work anymore. bbtw: other options than amzn would be nice, because duh, amzn 🙄)
The most frustrating part of this camera for me had been the sigma pro photo software. I could see as it loaded the raw image it would apply some sort of treatment that would clip my highlights and black values to an unusable amount completely destroying a smooth gradient into the shadows. I havent found anybody else talking about how to fix this. The only solution that worked for me was lifting the entire image and exporting it and bringing it back down in lightroom. If it wasnt for that I would almost always shoot with it. Now i have the sd quattro and edit in lightroom but i miss the camera size of the dp2.
Favorite overview of these wonderful cameras that I have owned since release. You mention Leica. What do you think about the M9 Monochrom? How would that rank in your last-to-sell list?
I just found your videos and they are a GODSEND as someone who has to pick between the Sigma DP1S and Sigma DP3 Merrill in the next 48 hours! Complicated barter situation, haha. Thank you sm, and if you have any opinions on which you prefer between Merrill series and original, would love to hear-taking both for a test drive tomorrow :~)
Nice, I have a loupe too, but didn't know they had retractable ones! have to look into that, such a space saver :-) I also have a small cage that will improve grip but makes the camera more bulky (I use it when on longer trips). ps: ISO I use 100 till 200 but pref 100 to 160 max. (Higher ISO's maybe for B&W) And about 4-5 batteries , it depends on the weather. hha for a very short trip, maybe 2 ...
I'm fascinated by unusual cameras. I was very interested in Sigma SD9 when it appeared. I recently bought Fuji S5Pro which is also a very interesting camera and I can get the same DR as from my Sony A7S2.
The DP1 Merrill and DP2s are my Sigma Fovean cameras, and I love them both - the DP2s being more compact than the DP1 Merrill. For the DP1 Merrill, I use and old external 28mm viewfinder from Voigtländer attached to the hot shoe. I works, because the little "warning" light on top of the camera is visible in my field of view just below the external viewfinder. I only shoot in RAW - and sometimes, I use the option to save in double the original size when processing in Sigma PhotoPro. The thing is, the TIFF files resulting from that are huge, but so is the resolution. I hope to do more testing of the DP1 Merrill for street photography this summer, because I do agree with you - it's an outdoors camera (that just loves light). Seems like I might have to keep an eye out for the DP2 Merrill too with what you just shared here.
I like your B&W shot of Jason at 6:38. Did he just chug another can of Flamin Hot Mountain Dew? IMO, the B&W phots from the Sigma Foveon look better than those from Leica Monochrom. They look closer to Tri-X and Kodak DoubleX with more gradation on tonalities. Glad you enjoy the Merrill. I have the DP1 Merrill and the DP2s. Wish Leica would put one in the M rangefinder when Sigma is done with its full frame Foveon development. I am ready to sell one of my kidneys. BTW, you probably want to shoot your Merrill at ISO200 of which I 've read about being the base. ISO100 is a pull so you lose a bit of highlight headroom with its dynamic range.
Base is 200?! This is serious news and also kinda exciting as Christmas!! And I’ve said in some other comments here, but I can’t believe I didn’t even touch in the black-and-white. It’s ridiculously good in these Foveon sensored cameras. As for Jason, he might have have moved from Flamin Hot to eating actual Aerochrome itself. Hard to say…
QS= Quick Select :) ...and everything you said I couldn't agree more. Not a camera for everyone, but everyone would love to get this kind of quality for their images. BW files are amazing, and really, ISO more than anything (since I do mostly BW) limits my use of them for street work since I can't go to f/5.6 or higher like I do on my other cameras for zone focus. But dangit, I do love my Foveons.
Omg how did I not put Quick Select together?! 😂 And geez I always fail to mention the ridiculous B+W aspect of these cameras cuz I’m so color focused but 1000% love that stunning output as well.
Does the Kamerar CVF-1 External Viewfinder fit well on your Ricoh GRIII? (hopefully you've tried it out) ... reason be is that my eyesight is terrible. Of course, I'd only be using it sometimes in the outdoors in the bright sun. a bit of landscape etc. since it's such a tiny compact camera wit a 3-inch screen the size is just right for the device. I'd really like to know if it fits properly with the straps nice and snug (and not loose) on the GRIII/x body or is it just not worth the hassle. thanks for your videos btw subbed!
You should make that your permanent outro. Loved the raw honesty of your review. Seems like a niche quality camera that would be fun to shoot for those who can afford. What is the non-Merrill version? Is that a different sensor? Do you think the Samsung cameras have similar output?
Came back to this vid because I've been wanting a monochrome sensor camera and someone recommended trying a foveon sensor. I don't have 3k to spend on a leica with possible corrosion.
@Phillip Banes I was thinking the same man . A few more videos like this and it’s gonna be hard to find one …. And I want at least one DP1M too 😬😂🤦♂️ soooo I’ll probably make my video about it a bit later …. Not that I can stir up the market that much anyways 😂
@Phillip Banes yeah, I’m kind of by nature gravitating towards wider lenses . 35mm 24mm my favourites really so I can’t wait to get my hands on a DP1M 🤓
Love this camera so much I had to say another thing: if shooting RAW, expose to the right (ETTR) when using a Merrill. There is SO much dynamic range in the RAW highlights. You can cram the histogram way over to the right, to the point where it looks badly clipped on the LCD, and then drop the exposure 1-2 stops in SPP. And then use Fill Light/highlight/shadow tools for a fine result. The extra light will also reduce foveon color blotching in the shadows. I'd been exposing to protect the highlights like I would any other digital camera for ages and was so frustrated by high contrast scenes. But hard ETTR + exposure reduction in post gives amazing results with a Merrill. The Sigma Quattros will clip like crazy though; you have to protect the highlights with them.
I really really wish there was a work around for the proprietary file format on iPad and Lightroom mobile. I would love to own one, specifically the DP1M, as a street shooter.
@@borisnemet of course you can, zone focus in manual mode, base iso, use Sunny 16 for exposure, job done. The only limitation is your imagination. Anyway, street shooting can be any number of different things to many different people.
Thank you for your first class review. Especially your tip to use the Ricoh Converter GW-3 I found exciting. I have ordered one, but unfortunately everything remains blurred. Even with manual focus. Can it be that one must also use the adapter Ga-1 for this? In the video you only have the GW-3 screwed on. What mistake am I making. Thank you very much, Christian
hi! i’m thinking in getting a foveon sigma camera but can’t decide which one (obvs cost is a laaaarge factor) which would you recommend for a returning portrait/street photographer?
That Sigma fp L Mirrorless Camera is said to be on pare with an Arri Alexa when it comes to color. I saw a interview with the CEO or president on Arri Alexa and he said everyone is always talking about dynamic range but no one talks about gamma. He said understanding gamma will make digital look like film he said.
I have an SD Quattro. Everything listed as a neg for the DP Merrill is more or less true for the SD Quattro. A really good lens is a must and once I found a Sigma 105mm Macro to mount on it the images came alive. I can live with difficulties in order to get the image quality.
The tricolour Foveon sensor at base ISO provides so much colour information that providing there is no clipping of highlights, it looks to me that you can razz the files to where any photographer would want to go. This is a camera I am very interested in. Thank you for the video.
Really good notes and yeah, if Sigma does that FF X3F with L mount, I think we’re going to see a lot of converts. I have a very accomplished academy award winning cinematographer friend who said the new Foveon is what he’s waiting for on his films. Until then he insists on sticking with celluloid.
@@OneMonthTwoCameras I don't think we'll see video on Foveon in a hand-held mirrorless body. It would be interesting though if Sigma added a Foveon variant to their fp line-up for video - the implications would be no mechanical shutter - which eliminates such a camera for photography use cases. If I had to pick between a photo-centric and a video-centric Foveon camera, my choice is clear: screw the film makers ;)
Can you suggest a Sigma camera or any other that would you suggest that gives that vintage colo/pastel look like the Leica M8. I am a filmmaker and Iam not looking for that crystal clear digital look. Just looking for creative ways to explore nostalgia. *(I shoot black and white mostly)* Thanks :)
Nice video! The first generation had 2 dps, the second 3 and the third 4. You can do high iso with the Dp Merrill cameras in B&W if you like high ISO film look with grain. One trick in SPP is to choose 100% blue in the monochrome menu. Then you use the data from the top layer and not in the lower levels. This means you get much less noise. Test by changing to 100% red to see. The light is moving through the sensor so one have drop off and noise at the bottom. This trick only work with Merrill files. For me it is always the outcome that matters most, so I don't mind it's slow operation. Photography is my zen after all.
This a fantastic bit of info! I didn’t realize until after posting that I hadn’t even touched on the incredible black and white capabilities. Definitely pinning this. Thank you for sharing.
Hey Innstikk, why would this only work with Merrill files? Although there will be comparatively less noise in the red and green Quattro layers, why wouldn't it work there also?
@@ricblessing3400 Great point and question!
@Ric Blessing It should work with Quattro, but Sigma made the wheel work differently for Quattro. So far I only see the effect with Merrill files. I guess it could be as the two lower layers have less resolution in the Quattro sensor, they are already using the top layer to get to the toplay resolution. I don't know their decisions, but at least it works for Merrill. Merrill is also very nice for B&W due to they way they implemented the microcontrast.
But wait, there’s more. If you are into B&W photography and rely on color filters, Sigma Merrill series cameras do double duty as a monochrome sensor or B&W film - a unique feature for a digital image sensor.
Writing as an owner of the whole trinity of these cameras I have to declare that you nailed this review of the Sigma DP2 Merrill. Getting the most from these cameras is absolutely a painful, "grievance-laden" (as you said) proposition. But ooh-la-lah these Foveon's can produce jaw-dropping colors and resolution in the right circumstances. (I say this as someone who uses THREE medium-format digital systems regularly!) I made two of my favorite images ever with the DP3 Merrill. So thanks so much for your review. Anyone considering grabbing one of these cameras should pay very close to your words.
And also thanks for producing such a really engaging channel of these old digital camera reviews. I stumbled upon you about a year ago and always welcome new presentations from you. I find your style and organization absolutely informative, entertaining and compelling. And you are quite adept with a camera. You indirectly prove the adage that skilled, talented people can, and will, make compelling images with ANY camera at-hand. I've no idea what your vocation is but it must involve professional imagery. Thanks for sharing your time and experiences.
I have had this camera since maybe 2014 or 2015 when it could be purchased new, but I have not used in a while. I just checked my old notes and found these tips on exposure:
- If you have a scene that doesn't have much DR, use ISO 100, but if you have a wide range of brightness, use ISO 200
- At ISO 100, you can overexpose by 1 to 1.5 stops. At ISO 200, you can overexpose by 1.5 to 2 stops.
- To restore highlights, you can add some fill light (about +0.3) and decrease the exposure slider to -1 (or more) stops until highlights are restored, export to Lightroom, and increase the exposure by +1.0 to restore darker areas.
as an owner of a DP2m for almost 5 years now, this review still taught me something i should know, love that! Good work!
I'm worried about getting one used because of the lenses getting stuck on these cameras. Have you come across that issue while owning it? Or do the DP Merrills generally not have that issue?
I don't believe Sigma will ever produce the full frame Foveon camera. It's been in development hell since 2019, and IF it does release, it will be extremely expensive to cover the development costs. The last interview with the CEO didn't sound promising. The Merrill generation, which I've owned all of including the SD1, are by far the best Foveon cameras, with the DP2 having the most superior optics. These are the only cameras I've ever owned that when reviewing the images I've audibly gasped and said "Wow". In the right conditions, they are nothing short of magic. I've been dreaming of a full frame version for a decade.
Sigma fp with foveon❤
Curious to see what will happen!
SD quattro and DP quattro are more fun and less annoying
Why bother? The APC is a fine size.
@@unbroken1010 Perhaps. I prefer the image quality of the X3 Merrill generation over the Quattro sensor. The Quattro trades off true Foveon architecture for reduced noise and therefore does not absorb 100% color on each layer as opposed to the X3. As far as the sensor size, I prefer full frame due to DOF and lens compatibility. With a larger surface area for the sensor, the light sensitivity should also greatly improve as well as noise levels at higher ISOs. That is the key reason for Sigma's attempt at a full frame sensor. Ditching the SA mount for the L mount will be the biggest upgrade by far.
Your images are always beautiful. Regardless of the system, you’re clearly just an extremely skilled photographer. Keep up the great videos. So many of your reviews are for items I lusted after when I was younger but can now afford. It’s great finding a community of people who appreciate this brilliant older kit!
Great release!
As the owner of sigma dp3m I would like to add...
Shooting at high ISOs is possible in VPS mode (which new cameras in IPhone and Sony have now begun to adopt). When using the viewfinder and setting the brightness level to minimum, the battery lasts twice as long (number of frames) even in winter! It is also possible to power the camera in winter from an external power bank through an original accessory! Well... we've been waiting for a full frame Foveon for many years!!!
Many thanks to the author for the review! And great photos!!!
per aspera ad astra , Ali!
Very good , enjoyed that. For me the Merrill series worked when I had spare cash, spare time and enthusiasm for photography peaked. I had all 3 merrills, sold 2 and vowed never to sell the DP2M which I still have sat above my desk on a shelf waiting for the day I have the time and enthusiasm again. The images are wow from the Foveon sensor. It takes a mind set to run that camera and I think any enthusiast has it a some point in time its just mating the two together.
I just bought one of these last weekend. Good timing!
What timing!!
It’s not only that I could listen to you for hours, the pictures you’re showing are very enticing. And a lot of the comments here too. Will have to do some research. So glad, that YT suggested your channel!
What a wonderful comment! Thank you for being here and welcome to the community. It’s the reason the comments are so good; a wonderful group for an active dialogue.
My fav camera. Was told by my professor that my images were too artsy for commercial photography. I dont have a desktop and travel, so i rely on jpegs. Love b&w on this camera. I need a DP0 Merrill to go with this camera. Going to try your Ricoh wide angle lens. Learned so much from your video. Thanks!
I buy Wasabi batteries for all of my digital cameras. I love them and recommend them every chance I have.
They're fantastic!
Oh man, this video is awesome. You are so into this camera and I'm living for it! Yes please make that video on how you use your speedlights. I'm deeply into them.
Awesome thank you and will do! 💕
Nice review. You've nailed the exquisite torture of using Sigma cameras. For all their many quirks and flaws, they have an uncanny ability to produce (quite literally) jaw dropping images - usually only revealed when the files are viewed on the computer (which makes that stage all the more rewarding). I've had examples of the last three sensor generations and still have the three dp Merrills and an Sd1 (definitely worth a look). Using these cameras is like learning to drive in a VW Beetle - it's not easy but you come out a better driver/photographer. The unforgiving dynamic range, for example, means that you just have to get better at exposure. And the Sigma experience also makes you better appreciate your other gear - my main body is an A7r2 and it's often criticised for poor battery life, but alongside a dp Merrill its batteries seem to last forever. One very useful workaround I've found for the appalling battery life is to track down the AC adaptor (a battery shaped insert with a cable). It's great for studio work, but where it shines is that you can relatively easily connect it to one of those portable phone chargers for outdoor use. A bit more stuff to lug around but it gives you the luxury of using the camera without watching the bars on the battery meter disappear before your eyes. One final thing - and a segue to another camera you should seek out if you haven't already - the dp Merrill batteries work in the ricoh gx100 (which, in terms of usability, is everything the Merrills are not, and also happens to take very nice pics).
Thanks for the DP2M review! I used to have one of these, and from what I can recall, this camera produces fantastic B&W photos, thanks to Sigma's SPP software Monochrome capabilities - they are huge! I had never seen anything close to DP2M in terms of BW performance.
It's brilliant for B+W and I'm such a dud for forgetting to talk about it :P
I am still convinced and optimistic at the same time that Sigma will make a non "black sheep" camera in the future that is actually updated to today's standard and creates good competition with other manufacturers.
Amen🙏🏻🤔
Thank you for keeping knowledge of Sigma cameras alive. I have Dp1x, Dp2, Dp 1, 2, 3 Merrill, Dp0 Quattro, SD Quattro. I use Sigma WR Filter instead of lens cap too.
ISO 100 is best, but in low light I frequently handhold Merrill and Quattro at 1/13 or even 1/10 with high success.
You can do TTL with Cactus V6II trigger and Cactus RF60X Flash. The flash is discontinued but can still be found used. Works on Merrill and Quattro.
Which of them do you prefer or use the most? What are the differences between Merril and Quattro? Thanks
The second you pulled that out of your bag i was hooked!
My favourite camera ever. Sigma has to remake this for sure!
The Foveon sensors are also superb for B&W...
Ugh SO TRUE and I completely forgot to talk about it!
Well done. I use a loupe as well but if I'm not shooting street but rather landscape or macro, I hook up my DP Merrills to a field monitor. It totally gets away from the issues with the weak lcd. You get a much crisper view and you can use features like focus peaking with manual focus for critical work and you expand your exposure controls with zebras. It's basically like adding firmware. As you mentioned, the slow process with Foveon bodies is like large format so I'll occasionally invert the monitor view for the OG LF experience, lol. If you have the cable that came with the DP2M, just find a monitor with RCA inputs, they're pretty cheap. Grab a magic arm and bolt it to your tripod and you're good to go.
WOW! What an idea!!! Thank you for sharing.
@Phillip Banes with the DP Merrills I used an Aputure VS-2 7 inch since it was the only one I had with RCA inputs. It will do up to HD (1920x1200) resolution but the video feed from the Merrill cameras is only VGA (640x480).
Never stop making these videos!
💐💕💐
This is THE BEST review of this genial camera. Very sad that they dont develop it. They at least could improve the battery life, speed of work and create smth like Sigma merrill 2 mark ii;)
I have this camera and have for a good while. What I've learned from using it: Black and White is wonderful and you can push ISO more here than in color.
Absolutely. Foolishly forgot to talk about B+W at all :P
Thank you very much for your videos. Love it. And I really enjoy your photos, compositions and development choices. I have the DP Quattro since 2017 and grace of your videos, I just recently understand better how to edit my photos in SPP (so painful to use) the right way. Thank you so much.
A few resources that may be helpful for flash photography. Strobist with David Hobby. The gold stqandard for off camera flash and free. Tangents, off camera flash. great newsletter. Flash Zebra for all the cords adaptors for old and new flash. Also, most inexpensive wireless flash triggers will work. You can use a canon to trigger Fuji and Nikon. Just use manual flash setting.
A really compelling, entertaining and informative review of one of my favorite cameras of all time, got it twice and only sold it when I finally managed to stumble into a "good" sample of SD1M (in terms of AF reliability I mean), then of course missed the reduced footprint of the DP but decided to give the DP3M a try and boy, its lens it's even a tad sharper than the one of the DP2M, it truly can squeeze out the tiniest detail out of that Foveon sensor (I think Sigma also slightly tweaked the colors, they look more pleasing to my eyes vs the DP2M files OCC). I really like your channel and your style, keep up the good work! Cheers
Ooo now I need a DP3M! :P Thanks so much for watching :)
This is gold! Thank you for sharing your editing process. I have been thinking about selling my DP2 and DP3 for a while now and now I will give them another chance. I just find editing of those files the very frustrating so even though I know the IQ can be outstanding, I just never pick it up when going outside.
I hope it helps!!! I feel like once SPP reveals itself with these files, it's hard to part with these cameras :)
@@phillipbanes5484 yes but many times, if you do it like that, you can not remove a green cast. It is best practice to do just final edits in Lightroom, similar to like she does it.
Awesome video! Also love the Jason and Caleb cameo!
Wonderful review. I in fact just posted my very first TH-cam video about these Merrill DP cameras. Kind of a review, but really more of a showcase of photos I’ve taken over the years with all 3. I agree with everything you’ve said about them. They are addictive, intoxicating, and frustrating all at the the same time.
Excellent video and wonderful images! Big yes on the strobe flash video idea!! 🙌🏼
TY!!!
Got one, new when the prices dropped back in the day. All said here about it ... Never messed with the software, I just use it as an replacement of a 50mm 35mm camera. It's quite like that, and I think it's the idea behind the product. It does like a camera from the 80s, including the need for sunshine. I like the concept of fixed focus, the natural view. I run it from a 18650, made a custom battery handgrip. Experimented with a flash too, indoor pictures are so sharp, compared to pocket cameras. Note these are prone to dust. They came with visible particles inside the lens out of the box. No problem at this point, but the camera should be handled accordingly. I always keep it in a zip bag.
Loved the shots in this one
TYSM!
Okay, heading on vacation next week and had the two cameras selected, then your video may have just argued a Foveon back into the mix. 😜
Haha! This is the story of my life 😂
I own A Hasselblad X2D 100mp medium format camera, yet its the Merrills, particularly the DP2M, that I prefer to use for many purposes, including travel photography. The DP2M is also the perfect camera to use for stitched panoramas and if you do want even more resolution, try Topaz Gigapixel AI. Utterly brilliant camera.
Wow that says a lot about the humble DP2M! ✨
@@OneMonthTwoCameras I'm a Associate of the Royal Photographic Society, and the cameras I used to take the images for my successful panel submission were the DP2m and DP1M. I travelled to Morocco and shot using the Merrills mainly in Fez, Chefchaouen and Meknes, including the darkest reaches of the Fez Medina!
@@QuentinBargate oh wow! First congrats and second, I’ve had the privilege to travel to all but one of those cities and can only imagine how the sigmas would render those scenes 😍
So nice to see the DP2 Merrill again... I still own the whole trinity of the DP Merrills since I just couldn't let them go. Too bad that it's just a pain to process those marvelous RAW files in Sigma Photo Pro. Even on a beefy machine it takes the fun out of it since it's so slow. Lately I learned that Affinity Photo is able to process these RAW files but just doesn't get you the same level of control. Nonetheless it makes working with the files a lot easier.
It’s funny that I have actually come to embrace and enjoy the very clunky process of working with SPP. it gives me the same kind of joy that I had from the tedious process of scanning, which most people hate, but I actually always loved. And SPP is definitely still easier than that :)
@@OneMonthTwoCameras Well that sure is an interesting point of looking at it 🙂
@Phillip Banes exactly as shown in the video
I have the DP3 Merrill, and will continue to hold on to it. I use it mostly for close up photography, and I often use a black felt background when doing flower still life photos (like you mentioned, the blacks looks amazing somehow on this camera). The detail is still impressive, and the colors can be amazing with the right subject. I also agree, that it is not a good portrait camera... it is too sharp and shows to much skin detail.
the shot at 9:46 is art!! such a nice review
THANK YOU
Now I want a camera with this type of sensor!
It’s joyous fun ✨
It's the only digital film camera and together with the merrill dp3 my go to travel cams since release, I love them. :D I also use it for festivals and birthday parties, with an old small flash of ebay (from the 70s) the images look so unique and vintage. But I've never thought of having "lens options" will try that, thank you. 👍👍 Great Video!
I'd love a video on manual strobe...And thanks for this one. I have mixed feelings about my dp1 merrill partly because I don't like 28mm as much as I thought I did, but largely of course because of the huge massive downsides to these cameras. Special files though.
I'll definitely make a strobe video! Hope you find your peace with the DP1M. If not, maybe try the DP2M :P
I would LOVE a strobe breakdown!
This camera was such a pain to use. Was so happy to get rid of it. Image quality is good, but you really have handle it as medium format film camera.
Absolutely.
I use the Sigma LVF-11 LCD viewfinder on my Sigma fp - just like what you're showing - and it's wonderfully immersive. I also keep my DP2M at ISO 100. Yep, terrible battery life. But great results when it all comes together. I sometimes use the small flash designed for it, from Sigma. Great review!
-Tom
This was good, tryin to find one of these new and having no luck...lots of drawbacks but id deal for the chip..
thanks!
The Merrill’s ans the à Quattros are the best portable cameras ever produced in terms of IQ. The apsc and apsh sensors provide film like image quality with extreme resolution.
They really do
You have to try the DP3M! I'm sure it will be another camera that you wouldn't be able to part with! 😂
It’s definitely on the list 🤪
This camera has the most film-like sensor of any digital camera. Including today's modern sensors.
It feels that way to me as well
That's always up for debate. Nothing is in stone not even the queen with that piece of cement 😂
@@unbroken1010 notice the word ‘feels’. Everything is ultimately subjective :)
@@OneMonthTwoCameras probably 🤷
Loved your street shots! As much as I love the images you were able to get out of this camera, I would be one of the ones that would be super frustrated by all the camera’s downsides, instead of embracing the process.
Thank you so much and I completely understand that feeling. Definitely not a camera for most.
Great review! It's interesting how differently you use the Foveons compared to me... I like to use them as transparency film. So I always try to shoot under shadow, minimizing the dynamic range, and almost touching nothing in the Sigma software, whether you use them as negative film, under harsh lighting, and recovering as much as possible with the software. I always thought that these marvels were made to be used as I do, because they must have been made for Japan's light, which is not harsh most of the time, with lots of moisture in the air and soft mists, and everything traditional is so green and red with deep shadows, but I have to admit, that what you show here really looks quite like negative film!
I have the three of them, and I've been traveling with them for 10 years now, they force me to take pictures in a very specific way, and sometimes I feel like as a photographer I should expand myself and go for something different, but I've tried a lot of different cameras, Sonys, Micro 4/3, Fujifilms, and all the time I get very disappointed with colors and IQ, and always end up coming back to my sigmas even with my 49er presbyopian eyes.
Add another camera to my wish list... About to go out to shoot the Canon G11 for my next video. Would love to try out some older digital medium format. Great breakdown and you got some incredible photos! The one of your credenza by the window was 🙌🙌🙌
Thank you!!
This camera looks gorgeous!
I got take out my dp 2 quattro . Haven't used it in awhile but it's finally summer!! Ric Flair Wooo !!!! The jpgs are just fine.
@Phillip Banes yes,. There Fine. No one knows a difference on a small print. Resolution is indistinguishable.. the effects are great too. Dng is not much different either
@Phillip Banes again, not in the slightest if your doing under 11 by 14. On the later models . no one viewing your work knows the difference. Content trumps mp any day of the week in documentary.
Cool. Love a Foveon camera. I don't ever see anyone using them tho.
I just loved spending times watching this. I just bought a camera, so no,money left but those are really interesting !
I appreciate that!!
Thank you for this great video. I love my DP2 Merril!
So glad to hear!
So grateful for your Sigma videos, Ali, the cameras have been on my radar for a long time but in general information is kind of sparse and especially sample pictures have been rare. Which is weird, considering how nice the pictures look-although obviously a lot of that is that I like your style of photography.
That grip looks like it would be comfortable, I found with the Leica T that despite it looking mostly flat, it’s strangely ergonomic to hold.
Great portrait of Jason, I guess Caleb missed out on his shot :)
The thing where the picture looks out of focus when you first shoot it, I experience that on my Pentax Q10 (and TL2 when adapting lenses). I guess it’s probably a processor speed thing where it would take too long if it had to fully render it before image playback, so it just does the bare minimum for framing review and then concentrates on writing the file.
Also, just want to say, good on Wasabi for sponsoring you. They make products I use every day, and they’re supporting channels like yours and Snappiness, which is awesome.
Anyway sorry for the long comment but I guess I haven’t mastered the art of distilling my thoughts on a half hour video down to one sentence. All the best!
-Chris
Thank you Chris! I love long comments and appreciate all your thoughts here. I have also experienced the screen focus thing on my other older cameras and you’re right, that’s probably the processing. And as for the Jason shot, Caleb actually took that photo so he got his shot, literally :P
Dp merrils are fantastic serie! I collected all of them and enjoying enormously with them
That’s wonderful!
@@OneMonthTwoCameras And I have the same hood! Love it
I enjoyed your video. Thanks for the inspiration. I haven't touched my DP2M for a while. I miss these files even if the process is very slow (I also shoot 120 rolls sometimes so not that slow); making B&W is also amazing (as mentioned in another comment). Your tips about the Sigma PhotoPro are very useful (I forgot how to use it) and I also use a viewfinder (by Kamerar). At some point, I'm sure I'd try to find a DP3M (the lens looks beautiful and the colors doesn't look as cold). A shame that the manual focus is so bad.
I love my Foveons, DP1 an SD Quattros. Debating getting an FP L, I know it's not foveon, i got the Swivi viewfinder ver 2 on the bay, $6.90
Great review, thank you, and completely on the button. I have both the DP1M and DP3M, a conscious decisions on both, and I agree that these cameras should come with a bit of a “User Beware” notice - the processing has to be seen as part of the whole experience. But the results … can be amazing. I wouldn’t part with mine.
💯! Thanks for watching
The Sigma DP3 Merrill is the sharpest off them all and you can get a dummy battery to the Sigma Merill series and hock it up to a big powerbank and shoot picture all day long.And they are some cheap grip you can buy for them as well :)
Excellent explanation of this little beast. Thanks for this review 😊👍
Thank you!
DP Merrill is a great camera. And yes, it is very slow moving camera but it got its own charm for being slow. But I just couldn't stand SPP. I have moderately, probably very much top of the line workstation for digital artist and it still is unbearably slow. I get out from the software by exporting to tiff file as soon as I can and move on to other editing software. But if you can some how be patient enough to not give up until that point, it sure gives you amazing result that is second to none.
But I like using the LCD! And I’m happy with the AF too - it works just fine (with the focus limiter on). I take a lot of photographs from a coracle (a small flat-bottomed boat), so I’m used to the scenery shifting around when I let go of my paddle and pick up the Merrill. Holding the camera away from me is proving more practical and photographically much more interesting than having my eye clamped on a VF - compositionally, for instance, I’ve learnt to let go of fine detail and concentrate on structural relationships between darks and lights. The 3x3 grid is great for that (and the annoying glare off the LCD is a problem no longer!) Works well for me off the water too.
19:20 i was thinking about getting this tripod but then realised it would be practical to get one with a removable plate as it would reduce the time it takes the cam on or off the tripod significantly. any thoughts on that? (btw: some of these amzn links don’t seem to work anymore. bbtw: other options than amzn would be nice, because duh, amzn 🙄)
The most frustrating part of this camera for me had been the sigma pro photo software. I could see as it loaded the raw image it would apply some sort of treatment that would clip my highlights and black values to an unusable amount completely destroying a smooth gradient into the shadows. I havent found anybody else talking about how to fix this. The only solution that worked for me was lifting the entire image and exporting it and bringing it back down in lightroom. If it wasnt for that I would almost always shoot with it. Now i have the sd quattro and edit in lightroom but i miss the camera size of the dp2.
Favorite overview of these wonderful cameras that I have owned since release.
You mention Leica. What do you think about the M9 Monochrom? How would that rank in your last-to-sell list?
I also love this camera. Do you have a gallery of your Foveon shots? Would love to see high res photos
I just found your videos and they are a GODSEND as someone who has to pick between the Sigma DP1S and Sigma DP3 Merrill in the next 48 hours! Complicated barter situation, haha. Thank you sm, and if you have any opinions on which you prefer between Merrill series and original, would love to hear-taking both for a test drive tomorrow :~)
Oh amazing! The Merrill is my pick :)
Nice, I have a loupe too, but didn't know they had retractable ones! have to look into that, such a space saver :-) I also have a small cage that will improve grip but makes the camera more bulky (I use it when on longer trips). ps: ISO I use 100 till 200 but pref 100 to 160 max. (Higher ISO's maybe for B&W) And about 4-5 batteries , it depends on the weather. hha for a very short trip, maybe 2 ...
I’ve had my eye on a grip as well :)
And great video, too, as always. Must use the Merrill again! :-)
TYSM :)
I'm fascinated by unusual cameras. I was very interested in Sigma SD9 when it appeared. I recently bought Fuji S5Pro which is also a very interesting camera and I can get the same DR as from my Sony A7S2.
The DP1 Merrill and DP2s are my Sigma Fovean cameras, and I love them both - the DP2s being more compact than the DP1 Merrill.
For the DP1 Merrill, I use and old external 28mm viewfinder from Voigtländer attached to the hot shoe. I works, because the little "warning" light on top of the camera is visible in my field of view just below the external viewfinder.
I only shoot in RAW - and sometimes, I use the option to save in double the original size when processing in Sigma PhotoPro. The thing is, the TIFF files resulting from that are huge, but so is the resolution.
I hope to do more testing of the DP1 Merrill for street photography this summer, because I do agree with you - it's an outdoors camera (that just loves light).
Seems like I might have to keep an eye out for the DP2 Merrill too with what you just shared here.
Yes to all of this!!
Great video channel, Really love my dp1m and dp2m (more so the dp2m)
I like your B&W shot of Jason at 6:38. Did he just chug another can of Flamin Hot Mountain Dew? IMO, the B&W phots from the Sigma Foveon look better than those from Leica Monochrom. They look closer to Tri-X and Kodak DoubleX with more gradation on tonalities. Glad you enjoy the Merrill. I have the DP1 Merrill and the DP2s. Wish Leica would put one in the M rangefinder when Sigma is done with its full frame Foveon development. I am ready to sell one of my kidneys. BTW, you probably want to shoot your Merrill at ISO200 of which I 've read about being the base. ISO100 is a pull so you lose a bit of highlight headroom with its dynamic range.
Base is 200?! This is serious news and also kinda exciting as Christmas!! And I’ve said in some other comments here, but I can’t believe I didn’t even touch in the black-and-white. It’s ridiculously good in these Foveon sensored cameras. As for Jason, he might have have moved from Flamin Hot to eating actual Aerochrome itself. Hard to say…
QS= Quick Select :)
...and everything you said I couldn't agree more. Not a camera for everyone, but everyone would love to get this kind of quality for their images. BW files are amazing, and really, ISO more than anything (since I do mostly BW) limits my use of them for street work since I can't go to f/5.6 or higher like I do on my other cameras for zone focus. But dangit, I do love my Foveons.
Omg how did I not put Quick Select together?! 😂 And geez I always fail to mention the ridiculous B+W aspect of these cameras cuz I’m so color focused but 1000% love that stunning output as well.
Also could be “Quick settings”
@@OneMonthTwoCameras I just checked the manual, and it's actually 'Quick Set'...ahahaha.
Does the Kamerar CVF-1 External Viewfinder fit well on your Ricoh GRIII? (hopefully you've tried it out) ... reason be is that my eyesight is terrible. Of course, I'd only be using it sometimes in the outdoors in the bright sun. a bit of landscape etc. since it's such a tiny compact camera wit a 3-inch screen the size is just right for the device. I'd really like to know if it fits properly with the straps nice and snug (and not loose) on the GRIII/x body or is it just not worth the hassle. thanks for your videos btw subbed!
Thank you for using and sharing🎉😊
My pleasure 😊
You should make that your permanent outro. Loved the raw honesty of your review. Seems like a niche quality camera that would be fun to shoot for those who can afford. What is the non-Merrill version? Is that a different sensor? Do you think the Samsung cameras have similar output?
Came back to this vid because I've been wanting a monochrome sensor camera and someone recommended trying a foveon sensor. I don't have 3k to spend on a leica with possible corrosion.
That’s Bananas 🍌! I would love to have one ☝️. Thanks for the great review Ali 📸 J from 🇿🇦
I've been wanting to try an off-camera flash for my GR, I'd love a video about that
Soooo … since you dropped this video this morning , all the dp2 Merrill cameras sold out on U.K. eBay 😂 luckily I bought one days ago 😁
😮😮😮
@Phillip Banes I was thinking the same man . A few more videos like this and it’s gonna be hard to find one …. And I want at least one DP1M too 😬😂🤦♂️ soooo I’ll probably make my video about it a bit later …. Not that I can stir up the market that much anyways 😂
@Phillip Banes yeah, I’m kind of by nature gravitating towards wider lenses . 35mm 24mm my favourites really so I can’t wait to get my hands on a DP1M 🤓
@Phillip Banes will do . I wonder if there are any reliable brands out there… I’d hate to ruin the camera with a dodgy battery
Love this camera so much I had to say another thing: if shooting RAW, expose to the right (ETTR) when using a Merrill. There is SO much dynamic range in the RAW highlights. You can cram the histogram way over to the right, to the point where it looks badly clipped on the LCD, and then drop the exposure 1-2 stops in SPP. And then use Fill Light/highlight/shadow tools for a fine result. The extra light will also reduce foveon color blotching in the shadows. I'd been exposing to protect the highlights like I would any other digital camera for ages and was so frustrated by high contrast scenes. But hard ETTR + exposure reduction in post gives amazing results with a Merrill. The Sigma Quattros will clip like crazy though; you have to protect the highlights with them.
Interesting! I will have to try that out!
I really really wish there was a work around for the proprietary file format on iPad and Lightroom mobile. I would love to own one, specifically the DP1M, as a street shooter.
You don't want it for the street, it just does not make any sense.
@@borisnemet of course you can, zone focus in manual mode, base iso, use Sunny 16 for exposure, job done. The only limitation is your imagination. Anyway, street shooting can be any number of different things to many different people.
Yes please to the manual strobe tutorial btw plz. I’ve never tried.
Thank you for your first class review.
Especially your tip to use the Ricoh Converter GW-3 I found exciting. I have ordered one, but unfortunately everything remains blurred. Even with manual focus. Can it be that one must also use the adapter Ga-1 for this? In the video you only have the GW-3 screwed on. What mistake am I making.
Thank you very much, Christian
hi! i’m thinking in getting a foveon sigma camera but can’t decide which one (obvs cost is a laaaarge factor) which would you recommend for a returning portrait/street photographer?
That Sigma fp L Mirrorless Camera is said to be on pare with an Arri Alexa when it comes to color. I saw a interview with the CEO or president on Arri Alexa and he said everyone is always talking about dynamic range but no one talks about gamma. He said understanding gamma will make digital look like film he said.
Oh wow! I really need to try that camera again.
@@TastyPrism it's more then the sensor and like I said in my post it's about programming there gamma curve.
Yes, video on strobes please :)
I have an SD Quattro. Everything listed as a neg for the DP Merrill is more or less true for the SD Quattro. A really good lens is a must and once I found a Sigma 105mm Macro to mount on it the images came alive. I can live with difficulties in order to get the image quality.
1000%, you and me both
tengo esta camara.
Es la unica que jamas vendría.
I have this camera.
It's the only one I would ever sell.
The tricolour Foveon sensor at base ISO provides so much colour information that providing there is no clipping of highlights, it looks to me that you can razz the files to where any photographer would want to go. This is a camera I am very interested in. Thank you for the video.
basically a slide film
upd
lol now you said it in video :D
19:50
Really good notes and yeah, if Sigma does that FF X3F with L mount, I think we’re going to see a lot of converts. I have a very accomplished academy award winning cinematographer friend who said the new Foveon is what he’s waiting for on his films. Until then he insists on sticking with celluloid.
@@OneMonthTwoCameras I don't think we'll see video on Foveon in a hand-held mirrorless body. It would be interesting though if Sigma added a Foveon variant to their fp line-up for video - the implications would be no mechanical shutter - which eliminates such a camera for photography use cases. If I had to pick between a photo-centric and a video-centric Foveon camera, my choice is clear: screw the film makers ;)
great review, please do the video about flash photography! thank you!
So glad you liked it and will do!
Hey, thank you again for revealing your merrill editing workflow but I think you forgot to mention what kind of WB do you use.
Can you suggest a Sigma camera or any other that would you suggest that gives that vintage colo/pastel look like the Leica M8.
I am a filmmaker and Iam not looking for that crystal clear digital look. Just looking for creative ways to explore nostalgia.
*(I shoot black and white mostly)*
Thanks :)
Such a beautiful and charismatic lady! Thank you for your video, the pictures are great
Very kind 🙏🏻