Sigma DP2 Review

I was inetersted in the DP2 as a lighter alternative when I don't want to lug around my D700. Sounds like none of the problems with the DP1 have really been fixed - they've just been reduced slightly. I've got high hopes for the new Olympus E-P1 which should be launched next week.

For what its worth my experience with Sigma DP2 has been a nightmare. Iv'e tried 2 DP2's and both had real problems focussing in relatively low light - not dark just low light situations. The camera hunted around for ages and eventually I gave up trying to get the picture.The second issue I had was that the DP2 completely locked up and refused to let me take a picture after 10 shots of outdoor shooting. I notice this issue has been raised elsewhere on another site by another reviewer -this hardly inspires confidence in the camera. The only way to get the camera to work was (as the other reviewer mentioned) -to take out the battery. That said -when the camera works the pictures are stunning -simply the best I have ever seen on a compact. I would be very careful about spending the asking price of £530 for a DP2 until these real problems have been ironed out. There is no significant improvement over the DP1 in terms of focussing speed -yes the write time is slightly faster but then 2 of the DP2's I have had from different shops and batches have both locked up several times -something my DP1 has never done. Low light focussing is a real problem for a £500+ camera -there really is no excuse for the DP2 not to be able to focus reliably in low light conditions -ie a room at lighting up time. Until Sigma take these issues seriously and offer proper customer support I would urge potential buyers of the DP2 to consider something else. There are just too many problems for the asking price.

Very interesting to read 'reviews' - egomanic
DP1 or DP2 - one of them I will buy tomorrow.
Each tool is different, and you can only use the tool to the extent, how you understand it.
That is true for a 16000$ digital Hasselblad, as for a 35$ consumer cam.
Focusing speed: Why would I need that (AF) on a 24//28mm lens anyway? Preset it, as we did the Leicas and Contax RF 20 years ago, and get your shot!
Use a tool, for what it is best for, and get this incredible tonal depth without having to lug 2 DSLRs all the time. If I buy a DP2 after my 'disappointment' with a DP1, and than not giving up on it and getting another one: There must be something to this camera, eh??
Also, this camera must have some character, probably choosing on whom to freeze up, and on whom not ;-)).
That is the most convincing part for me. Can't wait to see my 18x20 back from the lab.

This camera is simply amazing. Tru, not easy to use, not good ergonomics, but... ! This litte thing is capable to procuce AMAZING QUALITY images. You must use RAW only. Forget about JPEG.

Don't believe ? Just go to Flickr and type "Foveon" in the search field.

If you're experiencing focusing problems just upgrade the firmware.