Luminous Landscape Forum

Equipment & Techniques => Cameras, Lenses and Shooting gear => Topic started by: Hulyss on January 08, 2013, 07:20:24 am

Title: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 08, 2013, 07:20:24 am
Hello :) Great new from SIGMA yesterday about a new DP featuring the new Merrill sensor and... A 50mm f2.8 outstanding MACRO/Portrait Lens !! This is what I call a great start of 2013 :)

More than my excited words, here is the DP3 Merrill Micro site giving the specifications and the feeling around this project:

http://www.sigma-dp.com/DP3Merrill/debut/#/home

And here is some shoots of the body, to have a better view (DcWatch):

(http://dc.watch.impress.co.jp/img/dcw/docs/580/916/004.jpg)

(http://dc.watch.impress.co.jp/img/dcw/docs/580/916/005.jpg)

And here is a first shoot with the best, to show how creamy and bokehlicious is this lense (Credit photo Kenji Mori) >> right click and show for full resolution.

(http://www.sigma-photo.co.jp/sppmonochrome/img/photo_gallery/_SDI0284_2.jpg)

Well... I can't wait to have my unit but be sure I will have it.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 08, 2013, 07:24:15 am
With this this new DP, SIGMA will unleash a new version of SPP : SIGMA Photo Pro Monochrome Mode

I am sure some here will be VERY happy with this new SPP and ... well... just have a look :)

http://www.sigma-photo.co.jp/sppmonochrome/en/introduction.html
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: hasselbladfan on January 08, 2013, 07:36:45 am
I really cannot understand why Sigma is not building in a viewfinder for obvious pro or passionate users.

This is not a mom-pop camera.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 08, 2013, 07:57:14 am
I really cannot understand why Sigma is not building in a viewfinder for obvious pro or passionate users.

This is not a mom-pop camera.

Have a better look at this camera and specially at the size of the lens. With a 75mm VF on this little camera this is obvious that the lens will appear in the VF, or, if they make the DP bigger to fit it, the DP will defo loose all his compactness. I do not want to have a Xpro1 sized DP. I shoot with Dp since they exist and I personally find it very easy to compose a picture with the back screen.

A DP with view finder already exist, this is the SD1 :)
 
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Vladimirovich on January 08, 2013, 10:41:02 am
I really cannot understand why Sigma is not building in a viewfinder for obvious pro or passionate users.
cost and then slow AF and video parameters in DP cameras are telling that they just can't get/process data fast enough from that sensor to feed any decent viewfinder.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Vladimirovich on January 08, 2013, 10:42:19 am
with a 75mm VF on this little camera this is obvious that the lens will appear in the VF 
oh, optical VF, not EVF...
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Adam L on January 08, 2013, 10:42:45 am
Is this camera essentially the same as the DP1M and DP2M with a different lens?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Vladimirovich on January 08, 2013, 10:43:21 am
With this this new DP, SIGMA will unleash a new version of SPP : SIGMA Photo Pro Monochrome Mode

something like Iridient Rawdeveloper has (albeit it does not support to most recent Sigma models).
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 08, 2013, 11:12:13 am
Is this camera essentially the same as the DP1M and DP2M with a different lens?

Hello Adam,

Yes this is exactly the same but with a different lens, optimized for bokeh and macro work. The only difference will be a macro mode for the AF, in the menu of the camera. It will be switchable without going into the menu, just by pressing the upper arrow of the back pad.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Viridian on January 08, 2013, 11:46:08 am
I really cannot understand why Sigma is not building in a viewfinder for obvious pro or passionate users.

This is not a mom-pop camera.

ABSOLUTELY agree here. EVF would be most welcome. Just saying.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: simonstucki on January 08, 2013, 11:50:27 am


And here is a first shoot with the best, to show how creamy and bokehlicious is this lense (Credit photo Kenji Mori) >> right click and show for full resolution.

(http://www.sigma-photo.co.jp/sppmonochrome/img/photo_gallery/_SDI0284_2.jpg)

Well... I can't wait to have my unit but be sure I will have it.

that image looks very nice, nice bokeh, but I guess this isn't the most demanding subject. but still lovely.
I'm very excited. finally a camera that doesn't blindly hunt for desirable attributes like super fast lens, super fast af, super low iso performace and so on. just a camera that does one thing superbly (like the two dp merills as well of course) for an really affordable price. way to go sigma!
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: janus on January 08, 2013, 02:37:07 pm
I am glad to see a company still dedicated to the old wisdom that a prime lens is still better than a zoom lens. Not just in terms of sharpness, but also, and for fine arts photography even more importantly so, in terms of smooth bokeh.

And this lens can do macro as well.

Sigma's old 50mm EX macro is very good, and I am sure even better in a new incarnation on this little mirror-less box-wonder.


Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: nandadevieast on January 09, 2013, 09:05:12 am
Have a better look at this camera and specially at the size of the lens. With a 75mm VF on this little camera this is obvious that the lens will appear in the VF, or, if they make the DP bigger to fit it, the DP will defo loose all his compactness. I do not want to have a Xpro1 sized DP. I shoot with Dp since they exist and I personally find it very easy to compose a picture with the back screen.

A DP with view finder already exist, this is the SD1 :)
 
hulyss,
It will be very difficult to shoot this without a VF...chances of shake...
DOF will be equal F4 at 75mm? For a head shoulder shot, and being a portrait focal length, it should have been faster i think.
But i am happy.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill : max. magnification 1:3 (0.33x)
Post by: NancyP on January 09, 2013, 01:10:55 pm
Not a true macro (1:1 capable) lens, but a close-up lens.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 09, 2013, 03:24:06 pm
hulyss,
It will be very difficult to shoot this without a VF...chances of shake...
DOF will be equal F4 at 75mm? For a head shoulder shot, and being a portrait focal length, it should have been faster i think.
But i am happy.

I don't think it will be "that" difficult but, yes, more than with the DP2m. I'm absolutely not afraid by that though ;) 75mm is good. More long can be difficult.

For now we don't know if SIGMA will release a 75mm viewfinder (they will) but for the ones who are chronically worried here is what you need :

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/191964-REG/Voigtlander_45DA414A_Viewfinder_for_75mm_Black.html (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/191964-REG/Voigtlander_45DA414A_Viewfinder_for_75mm_Black.html)

For the ones who are SURE to get it (like your truly), do not forget to screw ad vitam æternam a Heliopan SH-PMC on the DP lens (probably a 52mm, maybe a 49mm). At first, I tested numerous filters and the Heliopan are, IMHO, the best; absolutely no loss of details or chroma changes (I do not like filters but here, it is mandatory). Screwing a filter on your DP will lower the noise of the DP by 5, at least. A nude DP do some noise at focussing. The focussing elements move inside the barrel. This is the case for the DP2m and it is even more the case for the DP3m >> possible dust pump !! >> The filter will cure this hypothetical little problem (no risk of dust inside mechanism).

Not a true macro (1:1 capable) lens, but a close-up lens.

Yes of course. Owning the AML-2 (even the AML-1 with adapter) can magnify even more the ratio. The cropping factor of the crystal clear DP3m files can compensate ;)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill : max. magnification 1:3 (0.33x)
Post by: simonstucki on January 09, 2013, 06:32:11 pm
Not a true macro (1:1 capable) lens, but a close-up lens.

actually the reproduction ratio (on the sensor) doesn't rule it all anymore. for example a mft lens that goes to 1:2 paired with a 16mp sensor is way better (in the sense of magnification power, your going to be able to blow that single ant up to wall size) than a medium format lens that also goes to 1:1 with a hypothetical 16mp medium format sensor! however you will be able to fit more ants on to the mf image)

the reproduction ratio (on the sensor resp. film) was only the only important thing when shooting with film since 8x10" film hat the same "spatial resolution power" as 35mm film. in the digital era one always has to consider the reproduction ratio of the lens and the pixel density of the sensor.


but 1 agree, the 1:3 of the sigma lens is not state of the art (we now even have a 1:1 standard macro lens for mft plus the nanoha) , but I guess it wasn't possible to easily go to 1:1 without making the lens bigger and more expensive. if you need more macro and foveon you need to get a sd1 and a macro lens.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 10, 2013, 02:40:12 am
First impression of the DP3 Merrill by the phoblographer : http://www.thephoblographer.com/2013/01/09/first-impressions-sigma-dp3/ (http://www.thephoblographer.com/2013/01/09/first-impressions-sigma-dp3/)

In the pictures you have more details about the AF with 4 modes : Macro, portrait, landscape and Manual. If you look carefully at a photo, there is a little smiley which can be a face detection feature... I do not know but for sure, this is the most complete DP of the line, IMHO.

(http://www.thephoblographer.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Chris-Gampat-The-Phoblographer-Sigma-DP3-CES-2013-First-Impressions-6-of-9ISO-16001-210-sec-at-f-4.0.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: John Gellings on January 10, 2013, 08:46:13 am
I do not know but for sure, this is the most complete DP of the line, IMHO.

How is more complete than the others?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: ndevlin on January 10, 2013, 09:08:42 am

You'll have to fight me Charlton Heston style for the first one in North America!  ;)

I am actually very excited about the face detection feature. There, I said it.  I want this as a portrait camera, and FD is actually a great idea for when the little focus boxes don't go where you want them. 

Can't see why this couldn't go to the other cameras with a firmware update, since this is a question of processing off the sensor, which remains the same.

- N.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: scooby70 on January 10, 2013, 10:36:31 am
I'm very excited. finally a camera that doesn't blindly hunt for desirable attributes like super fast lens, super fast af, super low iso performace and so on. just a camera that does one thing superbly (like the two dp merills as well of course) for an really affordable price. way to go sigma!

Indeed.

Even those who aren't interested in the camera should be able to see the appeal it holds for others and applaud Sigma for making it.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 11, 2013, 07:14:25 am
Hello,

I know for sure that filter diameter will be 52 mm, the same diameter as the Nikon 50 f1.4 AFS-G :)

(Just for the one who wanted to know).

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: thierrylegros396 on January 11, 2013, 11:23:33 am
Hello,

I know for sure that filter diameter will be 52 mm, the same diameter as the Nikon 50 f.14   :)

(Just for the one who wanted to know).


What an amazing high speed lens :D :D :D
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 11, 2013, 03:59:39 pm
What an amazing high speed lens :D :D :D

My bad  :D Edited my post :)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: SangRaal on January 11, 2013, 07:41:12 pm
I wonder how the foveon sensor would deal with a Singh Ray blue and gold polarizer I just happen to have one in 52mm
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: francois on January 14, 2013, 06:28:39 am
I wonder how the foveon sensor would deal with a Singh Ray blue and gold polarizer I just happen to have one in 52mm

I don't know the answer but I remember that I user the Singh Ray B/G polarizer with a film camera back then. Sometimes, the results were interesting!
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 22, 2013, 06:17:25 pm
First look and basic info from andorama HERE (http://www.adorama.com/ALC/News.aspx?googleid=0014024&alias=Sigma-Unveils-DP3-Merrill-compact-digital-camera-with-portrait-macro-lens&utm_source=RSYS&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=Email101313ALC&j=Email101313ALC)

So since this night, I'm sure having the DP3 Merrill (you can't imagine how I'm happy). Hope there will be no delay for the delivery (DP2m got some if you remember). So, start of February, I will display an unboxing and some random test photos.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: robertboynton on January 23, 2013, 02:59:49 pm
I am also excited by the DP3 Merrill and will be looking forward to your review and sample shots!
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 24, 2013, 05:58:32 am
I am also excited by the DP3 Merrill and will be looking forward to your review and sample shots!

I'm also excited. I might say that THIS very Merrill will have a real place in studio (in landscape/nature photography too). Now I just need to wait start of February, probably around the 10th. I loved the DP2 Merrill but I'm a long focal guy : 50 mm is a wide angle in my world.

I find that a bit strange there is no more sample shoot available yet, for a camera who might pop up in 10 days.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 25, 2013, 04:04:28 am
Here is the 4 actuals JPEG displayed out of the DP3m, cleaner. Note that the photographer is not anyone : It is Tomio Seike ! (I love Tomio's work).

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: mi-fu on January 25, 2013, 04:14:17 am
thanks Hulyss!!

looking forward to some full size samples soon  :D
Title: Some experiences from trying it at the booth
Post by: kgelner on January 25, 2013, 04:06:44 pm
I had a chance to play with the DP-3M at CES.  One thing of note if anyone has used the other DP-M cameras is that the focus ring is much easier to work with on the DP-3M - on the 1M & 2M cameras, the focus ring is close to the body and so you have to reach a bit for it.  On the 3M the the focus ring is really wide, making it quite easy to adjust.

There's also a continuous autofocus mode, which the other DP cameras do not have (might come to the other cameras in a firmware update?).

Also as the 3M supports a closer range of focus, the degree of change in focus adjustment slows down as you get closer - making manual adjustments to close subjects very precise.

The whole DP-M series will be getting a real boost with the Monochrome conversion when that comes to SPP.  The B&W prints around the booth were fantastic, and it seems to make shooting a much higher ISO practical.
Title: Re: Some experiences from trying it at the booth
Post by: Hulyss on January 25, 2013, 07:33:59 pm
I had a chance to play with the DP-3M at CES.  One thing of note if anyone has used the other DP-M cameras is that the focus ring is much easier to work with on the DP-3M - on the 1M & 2M cameras, the focus ring is close to the body and so you have to reach a bit for it.  On the 3M the the focus ring is really wide, making it quite easy to adjust.

There's also a continuous autofocus mode, which the other DP cameras do not have (might come to the other cameras in a firmware update?).

Also as the 3M supports a closer range of focus, the degree of change in focus adjustment slows down as you get closer - making manual adjustments to close subjects very precise.

The whole DP-M series will be getting a real boost with the Monochrome conversion when that comes to SPP.  The B&W prints around the booth were fantastic, and it seems to make shooting a much higher ISO practical.


Now it is hard to wait !! I did the good choice. The DP2m is good. The DP3m is even better ;)
Title: Re: Some experiences from trying it at the booth
Post by: simonstucki on January 28, 2013, 07:06:36 am

Also as the 3M supports a closer range of focus, the degree of change in focus adjustment slows down as you get closer - making manual adjustments to close subjects very precise.


now that is a great idea, do you know if any other cameras/lenses do this? That makes so much sense (so much that I think focus by wire might some day be much more comfortable to use than direct mechanical focus). (would be cool if the new sigma mirrorless lenses that will hopefully soon be announced also did this, maybe even user adjustable)

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 28, 2013, 07:40:38 am
now that is a great idea, do you know if any other cameras/lenses do this? That makes so much sense (so much that I think focus by wire might some day be much more comfortable to use than direct mechanical focus). (would be cool if the new sigma mirrorless lenses that will hopefully soon be announced also did this, maybe even user adjustable)

It would be cool yes. As a Zeiss glass user, I might say that "focus by wire" have some road to do before getting even close to real smooth and precise mechanical focus (like Zeiss or old AIS Nikkor Lenses).

So yes, it can be more precise when coupled with scale in live view (like the DPs) but mechanical focus isn't just about precision, it is also about feeling and coupling. So, lens manufacturers should work on focus ring feeling coupled with the electrical rotor. AT the end, focus by wire might be the future, as well; I think it is really possible.

And, for the mirror-less branch of SIGMA lens, I'm not sure they will provide docking support as they do for DSLR lens, at all.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: simonstucki on January 28, 2013, 07:49:14 am
It would be cool yes. As a Zeiss glass user, I might say that "focus by wire" have some road to do before getting even close to real smooth and precise mechanical focus (like Zeiss or old AIS Nikkor Lenses).

So yes, it can be more precise when coupled with scale in live view (like the DPs) but mechanical focus isn't just about precision, it is also about feeling and coupling. So, lens manufacturers should work on focus ring feeling coupled with the electrical rotor. AT the end, focus by wire might be the future, as well; I think it is really possible.

And, for the mirror-less branch of SIGMA lens, I'm not sure they will provide docking support as they do for DSLR lens, at all.

I fully agree about the focus by wire, it really doesn't feel coupled right now but I think that problem could be solved. (I just started a thread about focus by wire). and as far as the sigma mirrorless lenses go, I hope your wrong :)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 29, 2013, 03:46:11 am
Here we go my friends :)

http://www.sigma-dp.com/DP3Merrill/ (http://www.sigma-dp.com/DP3Merrill/)

Full size Sample here :

http://www.sigma-dp.com/DP3Merrill/samplephoto.html (http://www.sigma-dp.com/DP3Merrill/samplephoto.html)

There is a load of sample and they blow my mind away. What a camera !

Ho, and don't forget those shoots was made with prototype unit and firmware back in November; production unit might have some little glitch sorted.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 29, 2013, 06:39:18 am
Now we can compare the MTF curves of the two lenses : DP2m and DP3m

Note that the measures are done wide open at F2.8

First, the SIGMA DP2 Merrill lens, the famous 30mm f2.8 LS :
 
(https://dl-web.dropbox.com/get/Photos/30mmf2.8.JPG?w=AADKq24g8ZFE7o3leKMcqBJjnH_ckNxdOLYq_6nAeu_xrQ)

Second, the SIGMA DP3 Merrill lens, the "close to be famous" 50mm f2.8 LS :

(https://dl-web.dropbox.com/get/Photos/50mmf2.8.JPG?w=AAAikwl-CklHZVwvxO6uWxgQjOV60Lur3TI4AnuYIgXGcg)

Look like the DP3m lens is not as "sharp" (this is very subjective) as the DP2m lens, but better across the frame.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 29, 2013, 07:03:29 am
Also, maybe a good new for the ones who want a DP (or a SD) at a lower price :

I found that on the Japanese site of SIGMA :

 http://www.sigma-photo.co.jp/new/new_topic.php?id=481 (http://www.sigma-photo.co.jp/new/new_topic.php?id=481)

Roughly, this is a cash-back program for all ppl who buy a DP or SD between the 22th February and the 2nd of June.

The amount of this cash-back in Japan seems to be 30.000 Yens (approx 330 US$/245€) for the DP Merrils and 50.000 Yens (approx 550US$/410€) for the SD1 Merrill.

The launch date of the DP3 Merrill is officially the 22 of February as well as the complete detail of this cash-back.

If it go outside Japan borders and if the numbers are, in fact, Yens, this is Christmas before Christmas   :)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Greg D on January 29, 2013, 08:57:00 am
So what am I missing  here?  Why 3 different cameras?  Why not interchangeable lenses? 
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: kgelner on January 29, 2013, 12:31:44 pm
So what am I missing  here?  Why 3 different cameras?  Why not interchangeable lenses? 

The DP series is about doing the best job possible matching the smallest lens and largest sensor in one compact body.  In a lot of cases carrying a DP camera is less bulk and weight than carrying a lens with the same FOV on another camera.

The sensor is is 1.5x crop factor, so you couldn't make an m4/3 body with the same sensor.  Using a full-size 35mm lens mount would mean a larger body. 

Also it means no dust concerns in the camera, and carrying more than one of them gives you a spare body if something goes wrong.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rand47 on January 29, 2013, 01:32:19 pm
Here we go my friends :)

http://www.sigma-dp.com/DP3Merrill/ (http://www.sigma-dp.com/DP3Merrill/)

Full size Sample here :

http://www.sigma-dp.com/DP3Merrill/samplephoto.html (http://www.sigma-dp.com/DP3Merrill/samplephoto.html)

There is a load of sample and they blow my mind away. What a camera !

Ho, and don't forget those shoots was made with prototype unit and firmware back in November; production unit might have some little glitch sorted.

Yes, I'm no pixel-peeper typically, so I'm surprised when I see some significant vertical banding in the DP3M-02 image, especially visible all along the bottom of the frame.   Hopefully they'll have that sorted out prior to launch.
I also see a little softness in the extreme corners, more visible at wide apertures of course.  Shots at f/5 and above look good in this respect but perhaps not on par with the DP2's brilliance corner-to-corner.
I really like this focal length, and am anxious to get my hands on one!
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 31, 2013, 04:46:56 am
Yes, I'm no pixel-peeper typically, so I'm surprised when I see some significant vertical banding in the DP3M-02 image, especially visible all along the bottom of the frame.   Hopefully they'll have that sorted out prior to launch.
I also see a little softness in the extreme corners, more visible at wide apertures of course.  Shots at f/5 and above look good in this respect but perhaps not on par with the DP2's brilliance corner-to-corner.
I really like this focal length, and am anxious to get my hands on one!

I agree with you. I will not buy it immediately. After some though, I think I will let some ppl to buy it first, to see how it goes on human skin because, before all, I shoot humans.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rob C on January 31, 2013, 05:43:02 am
I agree with you. I will not buy it immediately. After some though, I think I will let some ppl to buy it first, to see how it goes on human skin because, before all, I shoot humans.



Sometimes, buying immediately is better: witness the Rootes Group's Hillman Imp.

My maw'n'lo bought one of the very first off the line - they were built within ten miles of her house. I had a little Ford Popular at the time, and it was reaching its fifth or sixth birthday and I wanted something newer, more radical. I tried out her Imp and it was a revelation in acceleration and the benefit of an opening tailgate window. (Think 9ft Colorama background rolls.) So, off went the Pop and in came the Imp. Except. Except that the Coventry Climax engine that had allowed the excitement has subsequently been detuned, and the suspension altered somewhat too, I felt.

Sometimes they do get it right first time and then eff it up later.

Rob C
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 31, 2013, 06:12:34 am
Hello Rob,

I understand what you say but I'm a human photographer before all. Human skin is my concern so I will wait until some skilled "guinea pig" test it for me ;)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Adam L on January 31, 2013, 06:38:06 am
I'm curious about the lens hood.  It looks like it adds another couple inches to the form factor.   Does it collapse into the lens when not in use or should we prepare for the added bulk?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 31, 2013, 07:19:31 am
I'm curious about the lens hood.  It looks like it adds another couple inches to the form factor.   Does it collapse into the lens when not in use or should we prepare for the added bulk?

Hello Adam,

No, the lens hood is a screw type one and it doesn't collapse.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on February 04, 2013, 03:55:47 am
Here we go for more examples processed with SIGMA Monochrome :

http://www.flickr.com/photos/shio/sets/72157632647079397/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/shio/sets/72157632647079397/)

And some colors :

http://www.flickr.com/photos/shio/sets/72157632641352067/ (http://www.flickr.com/photos/shio/sets/72157632641352067/)


NOTA1 : This was done with a beta device.

NOTA2 : After watching the photos and, especially, the exifs, I think the guy need some advice on "how to use properly a camera ..."
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: uvl on February 04, 2013, 11:02:24 am
A lot of grain for 100 ISO monochrome shots but it doesn't look bad.
Color shots might be out of camera JPGs or developed automatically.
Sharpness is not bad at all. IMHO to many shots without deeper
understanding of the RAW development. We are all guilty of uploading crap to flickr  ;).
Uwe (http://www.flickr.com/photos/convolutum/)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on February 06, 2013, 03:58:23 am
Hello,

Spotted a new beta tester of the DP3m :

http://www.flickr.com/photos/minami/sets/72157632685189093/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/minami/sets/72157632685178741/

Photos are kinda better.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on February 08, 2013, 05:54:18 am
Again, a new tester. No full rez photos but better photos. I let you translate.

http://photo.yodobashi.com/sigma/imp/dp3m.html
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Pete_G on February 08, 2013, 07:30:36 am
I'm really not seeing the eye popping detail of the DP2M in these tests. Is it the lens or just the photography?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on February 08, 2013, 07:57:36 am
I'm really not seeing the eye popping detail of the DP2M in these tests. Is it the lens or just the photography?

I see it on the official samples. Some may say that the optic is not as good as the 30mm on the DP2m but I say she is as good. This just not the same focal length and a sharp shoot at f2.8 should be a longest distance than with the DP2m. Just maths and correct use of a medium telephoto lens.

So, don't rely on this early shoots and wait till one of us have it.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Pete_G on February 08, 2013, 09:11:05 am

So, don't rely on this early shoots and wait till one of us have it.

Yes, I will. I'm sure you, Quentin and others will get the best out of it.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: speedyk on February 09, 2013, 02:37:58 pm
Here is the 4 actuals JPEG displayed out of the DP3m, cleaner. Note that the photographer is not anyone : It is Tomio Seike ! (I love Tomio's work).


I do too, and had not seen it before. Thank you. Amazing.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: usathyan on February 21, 2013, 11:41:07 am
2 more links to see and enjoy DP3M:

http://dc.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/review/newproduct/20130222_588809.html

http://www.sigma-photo.co.jp/camera/dp3_merrill/#/gallery



Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: hasselbladfan on February 22, 2013, 03:09:30 am
I really cannot understand why Sigma is not building in a viewfinder for obvious pro or passionate users.

This is not a mom-pop camera.

I would already be happy with an optical viewfinder. Can't be that difficult on the DP1M or DP2M.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on February 22, 2013, 04:42:51 am
For now, it look like there will be no Cash Back outside Japan...
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: usathyan on February 22, 2013, 12:47:29 pm
http://www.flickr.com/photos/crazyshin/

The bokeh is really nice and creamy in this shot...
http://www.flickr.com/photos/crazyshin/8497602888/sizes/k/in/photostream/

Liking what I am seeing on this little wonder...
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on February 26, 2013, 07:15:44 am
Some fresh news :

First, I will have my precious next week and I'm happy Will come with 3 batteries, SAC-5, lens hood, Heliopan SHPMC UV filter 52mm and so on ...

Second, and do not ask me how I know that, it seems there will a cash back outside Japan borders after all . It is just a bit long to set all the system, at least in Europe, and I speak for France. More news between the 1st and 3rd of March.

Now, about the actuals samples we can see here and here, and this is just my opinion and my photographer's eye point of view, it seems the colorimetric rendering is different than DP1m and DP2m, more realist and adjusted.

Wait and see :)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: janus on February 28, 2013, 10:11:11 pm
Michael:

Are you going to review this camera as you did with the DP1/2 Merrills?


Thanks

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 04, 2013, 04:41:55 pm
At home  :) Will try it out tomorrow if weather is ok. First impression : files do not have the same behaviour as the DP2m files, as I suspected. Better colour quality / accuracy. It's like going from SD14 to SD15... a step forward, a big one.

(http://www.getdpi.com/forum/attachments/other-cameras/70052d1362432577-sigma-dp3m-athome.jpg)

The lens hood will be available around the 15th of march.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 05, 2013, 06:24:00 pm
Some photos to wait till weather turn !

(http://www.getdpi.com/forum/attachments/other-cameras/70096d1362525514-sigma-dp3m-1.jpg)

(http://www.getdpi.com/forum/attachments/other-cameras/70097d1362525514-sigma-dp3m-2.jpg)

(http://www.getdpi.com/forum/attachments/other-cameras/70098d1362525514-sigma-dp3m-crop.jpg)

Colors are fabulously right out of the box, especially skin tones. Give me some days to test the the thing.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Jim Funston on March 05, 2013, 11:38:08 pm

Hulyss, this difference in the way the files are do you think it is possible that a Sigma firmware update could make the 2 and 1 act as the new 3 does or do you think it is due to different hardware inside of the camera?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 06, 2013, 02:52:14 am
Hulyss, this difference in the way the files are do you think it is possible that a Sigma firmware update could make the 2 and 1 act as the new 3 does or do you think it is due to different hardware inside of the camera?

Hello Jim,

I hope, for the DP1m and DP2m and SD1m users that is firmware adjustment, and not hardware tweak. To know that we just need to wait the new batch of firmwares, I also suspect that the lens have something to do in that story.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 08, 2013, 06:44:46 am
Little update after the new DP1m and DP2m firmware. It seems that the colors are the same on the DP1/2 even after the update. Of course we need more feedback. For now here is what B&W RAW mode can bring out of the DP3 merrill (and the others obviously): The high ISO possibilitys :)

ISO 800

(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/e96o63zmuepxja0/1.jpg)

(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/na0hzgy23z7wsrg/c1.jpg)

ISO 1600
(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/11qj91ns2hwrg43/2.jpg)

(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/sp0qfy3gzumnwrd/c2.jpg)

ISO 2000
(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/jw0yk6x5o8zq1zx/3.jpg)

(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/8zgsgvxfcv35t4n/c3.jpg)

There is also absolutely NO BANDING on the photos I did since Monday, even at High ISO.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Aguirre on March 08, 2013, 07:30:23 am
Hulyss, thanks for the info. I can't view the shots from your last post for some reason; no problem with other posts.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 08, 2013, 08:34:07 am
Hulyss, thanks for the info. I can't view the shots from your last post for some reason; no problem with other posts.

I hope I resolved the problem now :)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: maxgruzen on March 08, 2013, 10:07:48 am
Hulyss, Thanks for the updates. I was impressed by the skin tones in the example you posted, since I have had such poor luck with them with my DP2. I look forward to seeing more portrait examples as I would probably purchase the DP3 if it works well for portraits......Max
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Aguirre on March 08, 2013, 06:02:03 pm
Gracias! I love the grain that these cameras produce.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: stefan marquardt on March 09, 2013, 04:19:32 am
Some fresh news :
Second, and do not ask me how I know that, it seems there will a cash back outside Japan borders after all . It is just a bit long to set all the system, at least in Europe, and I speak for France. More news between the 1st and 3rd of March.


hi hulyss, do you have any more news on this since I am just about to order a dp1m and dp3m ?
I have been a long time sigma user starting with a sd9 when it first came out - still an awesome camera (most pictures on this page (http://www.stefanmarquardt.de/stefan_marquardt/this_%26_that.html) and here (http://www.stefanmarquardt.de/stefan_marquardt/architecture_1.html) and here (http://www.stefanmarquardt.de/stefan_marquardt/architecture_2.html) are from the sd9 or dp1s)

thanks and regards
stefan





Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 09, 2013, 04:40:47 am
hi hulyss, do you have any more news on this since I am just about to order a dp1m and dp3m ?
I have been a long time sigma user starting with a sd9 when it first came out - still an awesome camera (most pictures on this page (http://www.stefanmarquardt.de/stefan_marquardt/this_%26_that.html) and here (http://www.stefanmarquardt.de/stefan_marquardt/architecture_1.html) and here (http://www.stefanmarquardt.de/stefan_marquardt/architecture_2.html) are from the sd9 or dp1s)

thanks and regards
stefan


Hello Stphan,

Yes, maybe tonight we will have some more news and then more photos will be available. In the weekend, we will be able to discuss more about it :) (And I really like your work !!)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: stefan marquardt on March 09, 2013, 04:57:21 am

Yes, maybe tonight we will have some more news and then more photos will be available. In the weekend, we will be able to discuss more about it :) (And I really like your work !!)

hulyss, thanks for the info so far! I just looked at your website(s) - great portraits! did you use sigmas for those?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 09, 2013, 05:17:37 am
hulyss, thanks for the info so far! I just looked at your website(s) - great portraits! did you use sigmas for those?

Thank you for the kind words :) I do have many different brand of camera so no, all is not made with SIGMA gear.
To be more precise :

In portraits, Jade is done with SD15 + the new 180f2.8 OS HSM, K+L is done with DP2s.

In Visuals, Rage is done with DP2s, Winter is coming is done with SD15 + 50mm f1.4 HSM, Andormeda is done with SD15 + kit lens.

In Artist, all is done with the DP2s.

Hope it light the things up :)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Quentin on March 10, 2013, 07:39:45 am
Hate to say it, but I have joined the "dark side" with Nikon D800E and various lenses (several Sigma), mainly for reasons of versatiity.  This means a delay in acquiring a DP3M but I'm about to go on a week lomg trip to Moscow and the only cameras I will have with me with the the DP1M and DP2M.  Loving the look from the DP3M. Hulyss.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 10, 2013, 09:18:31 am
:D why hating to say this ??  :) I do shoot mostly with Nikon D700 and D800 and you are absolutely right about the versatility and flexibility, miles ahead than SIGMA cameras. I have a weak work with the DP3 and soon we will have more news.

I'm sure you will like it.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 10, 2013, 12:39:03 pm
Here is my initial report on the DP3m (thank you Michael) and all your questions are very welcome (and pardon my French). Of course I will publish a lot of photos out of it but for now I have LOAD of work to do (done with it but clients first ^^).

http://www.luminous-landscape.com/reviews/cameras/sigma_dp3_review.shtml

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Quentin on March 10, 2013, 01:16:26 pm
Good report, Hulyss   :)  Another success for Sigma.  Given my last two D800E lenses were also made by Sigma (85 F1.4 and 35mm F1.4) they really seem to be on a roll.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 10, 2013, 01:34:18 pm
Thanks Quentin. Yes the 35 and the 85 are marvellous but I would like to know when they will release the new 85 "Art" and how it will perform :)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: MarkL on March 10, 2013, 03:02:15 pm
I'd love this camera as a low presence location camera for fashion work, so many places in London are private property and it is sometimes difficult to find good places to shoot without problems - a D800 and 70-200 is just asking for problems. I'm just not sure I can keep the camera steady enough without an EVF especially when higher ISOs are not so great.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Malina DZ on March 10, 2013, 04:27:55 pm
Just read your review, Hulyss. Thank you for sharing it. DP3m is another marvellous compact camera delivering stunning IQ like its siblings. Unfortunately, its slow lens (f2.8 and smaller), poor high iso performance, lack of IS, so-so ergonomics (for me) all are begging for a mandatory tripod and external light (flash) use. Combined with slow write speeds, I hardly see it as a competitor to any FF camera with a prime 85mm. What am I missing in DP3M that could make me abandon Sony a850?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 10, 2013, 04:39:02 pm
Hello Malina:

I don't think I said, nor SIGMA, that this kind of camera can be a competitor to a FF camera. Anyway, in studio, it blow away any camera under 30 MP, your poor a850 die hard face to him, sorry (just because you a850 do not have any kind of LV). That said, anyone see midnight at his door. I only use tripod in the studio though. Lets post some photos now, and less technics :)

(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/46oemy1kpzyay0k/4.jpg)

(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/v86q83xn5i1xzev/5.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Quentin on March 10, 2013, 05:19:11 pm
Just read your review, Hulyss. Thank you for sharing it. DP3m is another marvellous compact camera delivering stunning IQ like its siblings. Unfortunately, its slow lens (f2.8 and smaller), poor high iso performance, lack of IS, so-so ergonomics (for me) all are begging for a mandatory tripod and external light (flash) use. Combined with slow write speeds, I hardly see it as a competitor to any FF camera with a prime 85mm. What am I missing in DP3M that could make me abandon Sony a850?

Buy one and you'll find out  ;D . 

Of course is is not able to duplicate all the options available with a DSLR with an fast prime, but within it's operating window, the DPxMs can be the most magical, spellbinding cameras.  I recently sold my Sony A900.  You will find yourself searching out subjects to do the camera justice.  I went so far as to go on a weeks photo trip with just the DP1 and 2Ms as primary cameras - no DSLR or medium format camera, just a Sony NEX-7 which I used for a couple of shots only out of hundreds taken.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: BernardLanguillier on March 10, 2013, 06:12:08 pm
Good report, Hulyss   :)  Another success for Sigma.  Given my last two D800E lenses were also made by Sigma (85 F1.4 and 35mm F1.4) they really seem to be on a roll.

Sorry for the OOT comment, but as much as I agree with the Sigma 35mm f1.4 being a worthy challenger, IMHO you are really missing something by not using the 85mm nikkors. Both the f1.4 (I own one) and f1.8 (a good friend is shooting with one on his 5DIII, he sees it as the best 85mm ever made by anyone) and out of this world good.

To keep this Sigma, I still love my DP2m, but I am not sure I'll fall for the 3... yet.

Cheers,
Bernard
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: K.C. on March 10, 2013, 06:18:03 pm
What am I missing in DP3M that could make me abandon Sony a850?

I don't think anyone is suggesting you abandon any camera for any of the DPMs.

I love my A850 with the Zeiss 24-70 and I have no intention of selling it. I have bought a DP2M and had a heck of a lot of fun shooting with it. I'll also buy the other DPMs.

They're all different creative tools.



Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 10, 2013, 07:27:29 pm
Sorry for the OOT comment, but as much as I agree with the Sigma 35mm f1.4 being a worthy challenger, IMHO you are really missing something by not using the 85mm nikkors. Both the f1.4 (I own one) and f1.8 (a good friend is shooting with one on his 5DIII, he sees it as the best 85mm ever made by anyone) and out of this world good.

To keep this Sigma, I still love my DP2m, but I am not sure I'll fall for the 3... yet.

Cheers,
Bernard


Hehe I already told him that on an another forum but he seems to be in love with SIGMA for real ;)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: BarbaraArmstrong on March 10, 2013, 07:40:11 pm
I traipsed around all yesterday afternoon with a good tripod and the DP3M, and didn't use the tripod once.  It was just too much fun to hold the DP3M to my eye.  With the Voitlander 75mm silver viewfinder, which looks nothing short of great on the camera, you can catch the green focus confirmation out of the corner of your eye.  I set focus at the center of the field of vision, and recompose if needed.  Worked great.  --Barbara
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 10, 2013, 08:34:13 pm
I traipsed around all yesterday afternoon with a good tripod and the DP3M, and didn't use the tripod once.  It was just too much fun to hold the DP3M to my eye.  With the Voitlander 75mm silver viewfinder, which looks nothing short of great on the camera, you can catch the green focus confirmation out of the corner of your eye.  I set focus at the center of the field of vision, and recompose if needed.  Worked great.  --Barbara

Can't wait to see your work Barbara. I will certainly purchase the view finder too.

Some B&W :

(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/ew14yfv0y5pnjlk/M1.jpg)

(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/sxufstcyjhf9gv1/M2.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: maxgruzen on March 10, 2013, 09:10:11 pm
I traipsed around all yesterday afternoon with a good tripod and the DP3M, and didn't use the tripod once.  It was just too much fun to hold the DP3M to my eye.  With the Voitlander 75mm silver viewfinder, which looks nothing short of great on the camera, you can catch the green focus confirmation out of the corner of your eye.  I set focus at the center of the field of vision, and recompose if needed.  Worked great.  --Barbara
Barbara, I have the Sigma viewfinder on my DP2 and it makes it so much easier to use the camera well. Would like to get the 75 mm Voitlander. The thing I like about the merrill is its so small and I'm afraid I might be put off my the size of the Voitlander. Any chance you could post a pic of the DP3 with the viewfinder?........Max
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: The Ute on March 10, 2013, 09:24:49 pm
That pretty much sums up how I feel.

That the cameras can produce almost magical images when used within their window, and I find myself seeking subjects worthy of their ability.

I too was a Sony shooter (A850). I'm selling it. I prefer to use the DP2/1 combo.

Feel like I'm carrying around a secret weapon.


 ;)

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: maxgruzen on March 11, 2013, 12:24:38 am
When the sony rx100 came out I bought it right away and within three days I had my Canons and all my expensive lenses for sale. For me the new,larger sensor mirrorless camera and newly developed lens worked better then my DSLR. That of course led to my discovery of the Merrills. Fun trip
 
I lived in Port Townsand for years Barbara. back in the 80's.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: BarbaraArmstrong on March 11, 2013, 03:41:24 am
For maxgruzen, and anyone else interested:  I  haven't figured out how to upload photos (of course, I haven't taken the time to try, so perhaps soon), but I measured the Voitlander 75mm viewfinder.  It sits exactly 27/32nds of an inch above the top level of the hotshoe, and is exactly that same amount wide.  It is round, with a very attractive styling, posh looking, kind of Art Deco.  And, befitting its lovely appearance, it actually comes in a little cobalt blue velveteen drawstring bag like a piece of jewelry.  It fits very snugly into the hotshoe, more so than the black Voitlander I got for the DP2M (which wasn't an exact match focal length-wise, but close enough).  I wear about a size 7 ring, and that is the size and appearance of the viewfinder, just this small ring sitting atop the camera. --Barbara
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Greg D on March 11, 2013, 07:53:01 am
Maybe I'm missing something, but I don't really understand why Sigma wouldn't make a version of this camera with interchangeable lens capability.  Does everyone who's interested in one either a) shoot at only one FL or b) not mind buying multiple cameras?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: The Ute on March 11, 2013, 07:57:04 am
Who knows what Sigma has in the works ?

I own 2. The DP2/1. And yes I do not mind carrying both around. They compliment each other and they weight a feather compared w. FF DLSR and lenses.



Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: usathyan on March 11, 2013, 08:49:48 am
Can someone post a picture or details of that cable release being mentioned in the article? Hulyss?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 11, 2013, 09:16:49 am
Can someone post a picture or details of that cable release being mentioned in the article? Hulyss?

Do you mean the cable release for my flashs ?

Here it is :

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: nandadevieast on March 11, 2013, 11:45:46 am
Thanks Quentin. Yes the 35 and the 85 are marvellous but I would like to know when they will release the new 85 "Art" and how it will perform :)

Exactly what i wanted to say :) I am not buying Nikon 1.8G. Waiting for Sigma 85 Art.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 11, 2013, 01:53:13 pm
Starting to get more comfortable with this little camera. I damn like it !


(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/izsimgxus8cogtg/Maria-2.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Norm Nicholson on March 11, 2013, 04:52:23 pm
Marvelous, Hulyss.

Norm Nicholson
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: RobertJ on March 11, 2013, 05:04:36 pm
Hulyss, I have a few questions:
Which hot shoe adapter are you using to connect the PC sync cord from your studio flash units to the DPM cameras?

I'd like to use the DP2M and DP3M as studio cameras on a tripod with my monolights.  I don't want to use wireless MicroSync transmitter/receiver because I'll be limited to 1/125th shutter speed (I think).  I want to use the PC sync cord so I can use the faster shutter speeds on the leaf shutter.

I think this would work, but who knows: http://www.paulcbuff.com/hsa.php

Are you using the camera in Manual mode when you shoot with the studio lights?  I read in the instruction manual that it has a "Flash" mode.  Do you have to use "Flash" mode when shooting with studio lights with the cord connected (I think flash mode is only for on-camera flash)?

I don't have my Sigma cameras yet... thinking about it, and I might sell all my Canon gear.  I want to go Nikon/Sigma in the future anyway.

EDIT: Whoops, didn't notice someone already asked about the hot shoe adapter, but I'd like to know which one that is?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 11, 2013, 05:29:29 pm
Marvelous, Hulyss.

Norm Nicholson

Thank you Norm.

Hulyss, I have a few questions:
Which hot shoe adapter are you using to connect the PC sync cord from your studio flash units to the DPM cameras?

I'd like to use the DP2M and DP3M as studio cameras on a tripod with my monolights.  I don't want to use wireless MicroSync transmitter/receiver because I'll be limited to 1/125th shutter speed (I think).  I want to use the PC sync cord so I can use the faster shutter speeds on the leaf shutter.

I think this would work, but who knows: http://www.paulcbuff.com/hsa.php

Are you using the camera in Manual mode when you shoot with the studio lights?  I read in the instruction manual that it has a "Flash" mode.  Do you have to use "Flash" mode when shooting with studio lights with the cord connected (I think flash mode is only for on-camera flash)?

I don't have my Sigma cameras yet... thinking about it, and I might sell all my Canon gear.  I want to go Nikon/Sigma in the future anyway.

EDIT: Whoops, didn't notice someone already asked about the hot shoe adapter, but I'd like to know which one that is?

Hello T-1000,

Yes your hot shoe will work. I personally use this one http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/109453-REG/Kaiser_201300_Hot_Shoe_to_PC.html and it work like a charm. Yes I use manual mode, from 1sec to 1/2000 sec at every aperture between f2.8 and f11. With this material you do not have to tweak anything inside the menus. It work like "plug and play".

Hope this help :)

(http://www.onesixthbruce.co.uk/ekmps/shops/onesixbruce/resources/Image/mm4-t1000-photo-01-dp.jpg)

 ;D
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: RobertJ on March 11, 2013, 05:35:13 pm
LOL, thanks Hulyss.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: maxgruzen on March 11, 2013, 06:15:36 pm
For maxgruzen, and anyone else interested:  I  haven't figured out how to upload photos (of course, I haven't taken the time to try, so perhaps soon), but I measured the Voitlander 75mm viewfinder.  It sits exactly 27/32nds of an inch above the top level of the hotshoe, and is exactly that same amount wide.  It is round, with a very attractive styling, posh looking, kind of Art Deco.  And, befitting its lovely appearance, it actually comes in a little cobalt blue velveteen drawstring bag like a piece of jewelry.  It fits very snugly into the hotshoe, more so than the black Voitlander I got for the DP2M (which wasn't an exact match focal length-wise, but close enough).  I wear about a size 7 ring, and that is the size and appearance of the viewfinder, just this small ring sitting atop the camera. --Barbara
Thanks Barbara, The Merrill viewfinder I have on the DP2 is 24/32 X 24/32; just a hair smaller then the Voitlander. I'll give the Voitlander a try.I really want that " little cobalt blue velveteen drawstring bag".  Getting expensive having to buy one of this for each Merrill. I miss Port Townsand.....Max
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: BarbaraArmstrong on March 11, 2013, 06:26:12 pm
The 75mm Voigtlander is only half the price of the wider one, and looks much more interesting.  Fort Worden at Port Townsend is indeed one of my favorite shooting locations.  I would hate to move out of this area.  --Barbara 
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: maxgruzen on March 12, 2013, 01:24:05 am
I lived two blocks from Fort Worden and thought of it a my back yard.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: urbanpicasso on March 12, 2013, 12:30:42 pm
Picked up this little gem a few days ago and thought I'd jump in and share  ;D


(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8530/8551143541_8a7c93d396_b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18548381@N05/8551143541/)
_SDI0114 Panorama (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18548381@N05/8551143541/) by the urban picasso (http://www.flickr.com/people/18548381@N05/), on Flickr

davidbogdan
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: W.Utsch on March 12, 2013, 01:37:35 pm
The Voigtläner finder on the 3M (as posted on Getdpi):

(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8389/8552490176_3833a26f2f_b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/w-utsch/8552490176/)
DSC03712.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/w-utsch/8552490176/) by W.Utsch (http://www.flickr.com/people/w-utsch/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Malina DZ on March 12, 2013, 05:03:31 pm
...in studio, it blow away any camera under 30 MP, your poor a850 die hard face to him, sorry (just because you a850 do not have any kind of LV).
Hulyss, amazing studio results with DP3M! I have no doubt DP3M produces better IQ @ iso100-160, it's the comfort of use and external light support that don't favor the DP3M camera (for me).

They're all different creative tools.
Thanks K.C. I 100% agree with you.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: eronald on March 12, 2013, 10:44:16 pm
Hulyss, amazing studio results with DP3M! I have no doubt DP3M produces better IQ @ iso100-160, it's the comfort of use and external light support that don't favor the DP3M camera (for me).
Thanks K.C. I 100% agree with you.

Why is nobody using the Sigma dSLR with the same sensor?

Edmund
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 13, 2013, 04:53:55 am
Why is nobody using the Sigma dSLR with the same sensor?

Edmund

I used it. But the lack of LV is a very big problem ...
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Tiger1 on March 13, 2013, 07:04:38 am
Apparently the SD1 with LV is coming out sometime this year.....
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on March 13, 2013, 07:17:54 am
God these pictures look good... especially the pinecore macro, I've never seen such depth and "relief" before.

I'm still getting familiar with the DP2M... pictures are so realistic it's almost scary.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Malina DZ on March 13, 2013, 08:27:54 am
Why is nobody using the Sigma dSLR with the same sensor?

My guess is, it's because of slow/outdated camera functions & features (besides the sensor) and no native support of Canon/Nikon/Sony & 3d party lenses.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: joni on March 13, 2013, 03:10:36 pm

Please friends, does anyone know anything about the Cash Back Campaign from Sigma for buy or for any who currently owns any Merrill Cameras from Europe ??

Thanks and best.

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 13, 2013, 04:25:50 pm
Please friends, does anyone know anything about the Cash Back Campaign from Sigma for buy or for any who currently owns any Merrill Cameras from Europe ??

Thanks and best.


Hello joni,

There is some speculation about it, but I have two guess :

¤ The cash back is Japan only but It as been announced in Australia too, with 300$ cash back so... that lead me to the second option >>

¤ SIGMA is an Empire. The governor is SIGMA JAPAN but every other SIGMA are somehow independent. I think the cash back will come BUT every SIGMA need to set it on his own, thus some delay.

Cross your fingers :)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 13, 2013, 07:05:28 pm
Some cityscape in bad weather  >:(

(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/1abrknhovkxu99l/z.jpg)

(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/i81osh7pa6lfb1u/zc.jpg)

(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/2xlmvrgml3d9psf/ds.jpg)
(No, this is not dust spot, this is snow falling).

(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/51lxs53nb6qdu0j/dsc.jpg)

(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/4aja83mn0rcih2v/Lp.jpg)

(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/klf5j0s26fzbsm0/lpc.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: RobertJ on March 13, 2013, 08:41:29 pm
Why is nobody using the Sigma dSLR with the same sensor?

Edmund

I think it's because you can get the DP2M and DP3M for $1,800 with very high performance lenses included, while the DSLR is currently $1900 (normally $2300) and is limited to Sigma SLR lenses, which don't seem to be even close to the DPM lenses, except maybe the new 35mm f/1.4.  Also the functionality of the Sigma SLR isn't so great compared to a Nikon or Canon.

So people who are skeptical or new to Sigma will want to test the waters with a cheap "point-and-shoot" (except it's not a point-and-shoot, it's more like a secret weapon).  LOL
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 14, 2013, 05:32:23 pm
I think it's because you can get the DP2M and DP3M for $1,800 with very high performance lenses included, while the DSLR is currently $1900 (normally $2300) and is limited to Sigma SLR lenses, which don't seem to be even close to the DPM lenses, except maybe the new 35mm f/1.4.  Also the functionality of the Sigma SLR isn't so great compared to a Nikon or Canon.

So people who are skeptical or new to Sigma will want to test the waters with a cheap "point-and-shoot" (except it's not a point-and-shoot, it's more like a secret weapon).  LOL

Shhhhttt don't tell it :)

Moss on pink granite wall :

(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/h5z8crcijsvyh6x/Moss.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: LKaven on March 14, 2013, 09:18:56 pm
Hulyss is getting my appetite up for the DP.  I wonder why they don't introduce a DP-X with three (or so) interchangeable lenses corresponding to the lenses on the DP-1,2,3?  I would jump on that camera in a heartbeat. 
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: ndevlin on March 15, 2013, 01:11:41 am
Why is nobody using the Sigma dSLR with the same sensor?


Good question Edmund.  The answer is that the SD-1 with the interchangeable lenses simply doesn't give the same results as the DP-2 (and now 3).  It has been suggested by those who should know that a couple of the newer lenses get the SD-1 close, but there is real magic in a lens matched so perfectly to a sensor, it seems.

- N.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 15, 2013, 05:05:21 am
Good question Edmund.  The answer is that the SD-1 with the interchangeable lenses simply doesn't give the same results as the DP-2 (and now 3).  It has been suggested by those who should know that a couple of the newer lenses get the SD-1 close, but there is real magic in a lens matched so perfectly to a sensor, it seems.

- N.

Nick, you should try the 3 ... sure an alchemy will operate ;)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: urbanpicasso on March 15, 2013, 07:57:31 am
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8516/8559717244_fd104e5d9b_b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18548381@N05/8559717244/)
_SDI0169 copy 2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/18548381@N05/8559717244/) by the urban picasso (http://www.flickr.com/people/18548381@N05/), on Flickr

davidbogdan
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 15, 2013, 09:20:38 am
The workshop :

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/575983_4585257437580_846659501_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: eronald on March 15, 2013, 04:49:06 pm
It's interesting that the DP* owners are posting so much more interesting pictures than the M240 owners :)
Sigma may not be capable of selling $7K 50 mm lenses, but they sure seem capable of making good point and shoots.

Edmund
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: MrSmith on March 15, 2013, 05:11:54 pm
I keep looking at these merril DP threads, some great images and the files though jpegs viewed on an ipad seem to have something special about them. And more of a difference than that visible between MFD/35mm (very little)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: TMARK on March 15, 2013, 08:51:03 pm
It's interesting that the DP* owners are posting so much more interesting pictures than the M240 owners :)
Sigma may not be capable of selling $7K 50 mm lenses, but they sure seem capable of making good point and shoots.

Edmund

This camera excites people.  It excites me.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 17, 2013, 05:26:35 am
This camera excites people.  It excites me.

Let me give you some more !!

http://youtu.be/L_fCqg92qks

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/301565_4595218326596_464322296_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: hasselbladfan on March 17, 2013, 08:24:47 am
It is not a Picasso, but it is a great picture ! :)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 18, 2013, 05:48:29 am
Wet Pink flower and typical bokeh signature :)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/295679_4599869002860_800795453_n.jpg)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/576234_4599865002760_43013165_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 18, 2013, 09:27:41 am
Amityville - Where all began !

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/576075_4600139169614_405172645_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: SangRaal on March 18, 2013, 10:52:19 am
About 20 minutes ago UPS dropped off my DP-3 and voigtlander 75mm viewfinder. As I type this I am charging the 2 batteries and just finished downloading SPP. Hopefully before lunch today I will get out some test images. has any body felt the need to use the RRS L bracket and or grip?? Currently I am going to search for my RRS "universal" camera plate.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: urbanpicasso on March 18, 2013, 05:20:53 pm
Quote
Currently I am going to search for my RRS "universal" camera plate.
Exactly the setup, I've decided, that suits me best. I extend the universal bracket to the hole where it clears the battery. It kind of gives me a left handed handle. It allows me to function all the controls with my right fingers as well as my thumb as I've got large hands. Also when holding the camera, manual focus is as easy as extending my left index to adjust the lens. This same system works very well with  my RX100. I now find the right sided grip useless.  ;D

davidbogdan
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: aduke on March 18, 2013, 06:40:12 pm
Exactly the setup, I've decided, that suits me best. I extend the universal bracket to the hole where it clears the battery. It kind of gives me a left handed handle. It allows me to function all the controls with my right fingers as well as my thumb as I've got large hands. Also when holding the camera, manual focus is as easy as extending my left index to adjust the lens. This same system works very well with  my RX100. I now find the right sided grip useless.  ;D

davidbogdan

Interesting. I use my 40D L plate on the DP-2 Merrill, obtaining the left hand handle and easy button and focusing access. The L-plate is attached so that it clears the battery/SD door.

Alan
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: urbanpicasso on March 20, 2013, 10:18:15 pm
Pieces of the Detroit Eastern Market area
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: stefan marquardt on March 22, 2013, 06:16:07 am
received my dp3 yesterday - really happy with the purchase. got it particularly for near macro work:
(is it normal that the lens makes a wee noise when you focus manuel?)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 22, 2013, 07:01:18 am
received my dp3 yesterday - really happy with the purchase. got it particularly for near macro work:
(is it normal that the lens makes a wee noise when you focus manuel?)

Nice photo Stefan :) Yes it is normal that the lens make some noise in manual focus. It work by piezoelectric impulsions and the noise is the impulsion.

It rain outside so I have fun indoor composing visuals :)

(http://payload119.cargocollective.com/1/9/313125/4695509/TheEye.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 22, 2013, 07:40:24 am
Ho by the way I get attacked by "Loyd Chamber" about my professionalism because I said in my report that colors out of the DP3 Merrill are more accurate than DP2 Merrill.

I stay in my positions, as I'm not a professional reviewer but a Professional photographer who have an artist and painter eye. When there is a difference I see it and I'm not the only possessor of DP3m to have noticed a change (beneficial).

But, as I say, I am not a reviewer (yet) and I don't give into forum ego/polemics.

With all due respect to this reviewer.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Pete_G on March 22, 2013, 07:59:33 am
Ho by the way I get attacked by "Loyd Chamber" about my professionalism because I said in my report that colors out of the DP3 Merrill are more accurate than DP2 Merrill.

I stay in my positions, as I'm not a professional reviewer but a Professional photographer who have an artist and painter eye. When there is a difference I see it and I'm not the only possessor of DP3m to have noticed a change (beneficial).

But, as I say, I am not a reviewer (yet) and I don't give into forum ego/polemics.

With all due respect to this reviewer.

Don't worry about that Hulyss, at least you didn't charge us money to read your review.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 22, 2013, 02:15:37 pm
Don't worry about that Hulyss, at least you didn't charge us money to read your review.

Haha yea !! What a strange Idea to charge ppl for reading a personal point of view...
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: LKaven on March 22, 2013, 03:34:21 pm
Haha yea !! What a strange Idea to charge ppl for reading a personal point of view...

I have to say, in his case, he works very hard for the money.  And he covers some very useful issues that others don't cover in detailed fashion.  If I were buying a high-end kit from scratch, I think the price would be worth it in terms of money and headaches saved.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 22, 2013, 05:14:33 pm
I have to say, in his case, he works very hard for the money.  And he covers some very useful issues that others don't cover in detailed fashion.  If I were buying a high-end kit from scratch, I think the price would be worth it in terms of money and headaches saved.

Yes I respect totally ppl work. Some can be weirdo but I respect it. This is just sad that all is monetised today.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Slobodan Blagojevic on March 22, 2013, 05:23:52 pm
... This is just sad that all is monetised today.

As opposed to yesterday (and the last couple of millennia), when writers and other artists never got to work for money ;)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 22, 2013, 05:44:14 pm
As opposed to yesterday (and the last couple of millennia), when writers and other artist never got to work for money ;)

Well, I do that a lot, I'm forced by my inner nature. I work for free for students, I cut my prices for other artists, because this is rude. It maybe depend in what sphere we evolute. In the actual sphere around me, money is kinda rare thing. If one day I earn more out of my work/relations, I will never forget where I come from (I hope).
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Slobodan Blagojevic on March 22, 2013, 06:10:51 pm
Loyd Chamber:

Quote
I have not yet observed a color difference among the DP Merrill cameras, and I have all three of them. If I were to make such a claim, I would back it up with evidence as a matter of professionalism.

When I said that DP2 exhibits lousy, sickish, puke-ish, yellow-greenish tint, somebody called me a troll. Then I went back through the long DP2 thread (http://www.luminous-landscape.com/forum/index.php?topic=69796.0) and found a post (page 11, post #207) from a guy who had both, DP1 and DP2, and who also noticed the difference, with DP1 looking more natural. Also, check page 44, post #875 for horrific skin color (in the upper left corner).

Now we have another claim (Hulyss):

Quote
The DP3 Merrill's colors are more accurate (by far)

Which, by inference, means DP2 colors were not that accurate after all.

I think the jury is still out as to Sigma colors. I would expect Mr. Chambers to also back his claim by posting three identical images by the Merrill trio, "as a matter of professionalism."

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 22, 2013, 07:48:32 pm
I called you troll ??  8)  ;D

Yes the DP2m is hard with skins. Merrill sensor was hard with skin but the DP3m changed the game. I do have examples and can compare but this is not my role and this my wife, in example. She is not a test target for the mass.

Only the future and the users will prove what I see and what I say about this "color enhancement" and I'm pretty comfortable with my claims.

(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/yfdaykwy0hrbp3a/Sensible.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: eronald on March 23, 2013, 01:05:50 am
An interesting conundrum in fashion photography is that women are often the designers and models, and they are often the art directors and editors, however the photographers are mostly men. And statistically men tend to have much less discernment of colors than young women.

On the matter of color of any of the DP series, I would as a color consultant do the same thing as I would do for any other significant color issue - have a young woman check my judgement :)

Edmund

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rob C on March 23, 2013, 04:47:58 am
An interesting conundrum in fashion photography is that women are often the designers and models, and they are often the art directors and editors, however the photographers are mostly men. And statistically men tend to have much less discernment of colors than young women.

On the matter of color of any of the DP series, I would as a color consultant do the same thing as I would do for any other significant color issue - have a young woman check my judgement :)

Edmund




Absolutely. My wife's sense of colour was far better than mine, though being human she did ask me for a confirming opinion now and again. I think that's something borne out in everyday life.

Rob C
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rob C on March 23, 2013, 04:52:54 am
I called you troll ??  8)  ;D

Yes the DP2m is hard with skins. Merrill sensor was hard with skin but the DP3m changed the game. I do have examples and can compare but this is not my role and this my wife, in example. She is not a test target for the mass.

Only the future and the users will prove what I see and what I say about this "color enhancement" and I'm pretty comfortable with my claims.

(https://dl.dropbox.com/s/yfdaykwy0hrbp3a/Sensible.jpg)


a.  Lucky man

b.  you can hardly use her to illustrate your work, but claim papal dispensation at the same time;

c.  yes, the skin tones and shadows are not flattering of a good-looking woman.

;-)

Rob C
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on March 23, 2013, 05:31:58 am
I took a self-portrait once with my DP2M to see what the fuss is all about. I was wondering if my skin was actually disgusting or if the camera enhances the imperfections...

That said, I'm getting more and more convinced and interested by this DP3M.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 23, 2013, 08:33:01 am

a.  Lucky man

b.  you can hardly use her to illustrate your work, but claim papal dispensation at the same time;

c.  yes, the skin tones and shadows are not flattering of a good-looking woman.

;-)

Rob C

Ho this one isn't my wife :) This is a student I crossed in the street. My wife is here :

(http://payload119.cargocollective.com/1/9/313125/4695509/Rage.jpg)

This was done with the ancestor of the DP2m, the DP2s :)

As you can see she do not agree with the fact many cute women roam around me :p

It drove me to make this anxious animation with this visual. Women are always a strange territory to explore and I think a man need more than one life to understand them (If he can at all).

http://youtu.be/T-2Ei0elGyY
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: gmanth on March 23, 2013, 12:08:27 pm
(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/b4ca876594.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/76c5d87e9f.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/9c3ed6c1d8.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/d72ca435f0.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/d626e617cb.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/47075c87d5.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

with wa converter Raynox DCR-6600

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/8274f3b563.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Quentin on March 23, 2013, 01:23:12 pm
I don't think that the Sigma DPxM line would be my cameras of choice for fashion photography, but the gritty analytical end results can be good news for some people shots, where you want to see every nook and cranny.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: eronald on March 24, 2013, 09:20:31 am
I don't think that the Sigma DPxM line would be my cameras of choice for fashion photography, but the gritty analytical end results can be good news for some people shots, where you want to see every nook and cranny.


Quentin,

 Did I hear you say "The ideal camera for dermatological records" ?
 I would protest that, the color of the blemish is very important to doctors.

Edmund

PS. See, even an old Troll can learn new tricks :)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rob C on March 24, 2013, 10:18:19 am

Quentin,

 Did I hear you say "The ideal camera for dermatological records" ?
 I would protest that, the color of the blemish is very important to doctors.

Edmund

PS. See, even an old Troll can learn new tricks :)



That would also rule it out for some industrial needs: jet engine flame tubes are very colour-dependent for analytical purposes. Oddly, I enjoyed flying when young, but now I've had time to think...

Rob C
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 24, 2013, 04:04:11 pm
I took a self-portrait once with my DP2M to see what the fuss is all about. I was wondering if my skin was actually disgusting or if the camera enhances the imperfections...

That said, I'm getting more and more convinced and interested by this DP3M.

The Dp3m is an another beast. Can't be used as we use the DP2m, need a little learning curve too. He does not have the same character.

Lots of beautiful photos !!

As I said ... lot of gorgeous photos :)


That would also rule it out for some industrial needs: jet engine flame tubes are very colour-dependent for analytical purposes. Oddly, I enjoyed flying when young, but now I've had time to think...

Rob C

Ok ... Now the DPxms are compared to spectra-photometers !!  ;D
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rob C on March 24, 2013, 06:10:16 pm
The Dp3m is an another beast. Can't be used as we use the DP2m, need a little learning curve too. He does not have the same character.

As I said ... lot of gorgeous photos :)

Ok ... Now the DPxms are compared to spectra-photometers !!  ;D




Nope; in my case, 4x5 Ektachrome and Schneider glass, and my own sweet processing and printing skills.

In the case of black/white, broken turbine blades reproduced well in that medium, but printing still had to be spot-on, matching metal grey to print.

;-)

Rob C
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: uvl on March 26, 2013, 07:30:01 am
Now we have a Sigma Merrill cashback here in Germany: http://www.sigma-foto.de/cashback.html
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: joni on March 27, 2013, 11:25:27 am

Hi friends;

I'd like to know how it behaves this DP3m to infinity focus for landscape and urban shoots.
Do you have any test ??

Thanks and best,
Joni.

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 28, 2013, 04:40:34 am
Hello joni,

It work very well if you set up you focus limiter from 2 meters to infinity. Then, the focus is very quick and, for now, I do not have many focus waste with this technique.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: joni on March 28, 2013, 07:00:22 am

Hi all and thanks Hulyss;

I don't mean to the performance of the autofocus because I usually shoot in manual mode.
I'm referring to the focus performance at infinity when you use hyperfocal distance.
Is this camera sharp enough ??

Thanks and best,
Joni.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on March 28, 2013, 07:23:48 am
Hi all and thanks Hulyss;

I don't mean to the performance of the autofocus because I usually shoot in manual mode.
I'm referring to the focus performance at infinity when you use hyperfocal distance.
Is this camera sharp enough ??

Thanks and best,
Joni.

Yes it is :) Do not worry about sharpness and DP :)
Title: DP1, DP2 & DP3 color rendition
Post by: Hulyss on March 29, 2013, 06:30:11 pm
See this as a scientific appendix to my DP3m report you can find HERE (http://www.luminous-landscape.com/reviews/cameras/sigma_dp3_review.shtml) and the DP2m report started by Michael HERE (http://www.luminous-landscape.com/reviews/cameras/sigma_dp2m_review.shtml).

The fine art photographer Vieri Bottazzini did a pretty accurate test between the three DP and endorse, by a certain measure and in a more scientific way, what my eyes seen when I did the report. Enjoy the read :

THE SIGMA DP MERRILS AND THEIR COLORS: THE TRUTH REVEALED! (http://madshutter.blogspot.fr/2013/03/the-sigma-dp-merrils-and-their-colors.html)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: kuau on April 01, 2013, 05:10:57 pm
Me to, more of a problem for me was lack of good lenses. Sigma has horrible QC problems. Maybe with there new art line and a rumored SD1 with LV I will for sure give it another spin.

I used it. But the lack of LV is a very big problem ...
Title: Re: DP1, DP2 & DP3 color rendition
Post by: Vladimirovich on April 02, 2013, 02:46:50 am

The fine art photographer Vieri Bottazzini did a pretty accurate test

accurate ? his illumination was very uneven... both between shots and within a shot... total BS.
Title: Re: DP1, DP2 & DP3 color rendition
Post by: Vieri Bottazzini on April 02, 2013, 12:35:51 pm
accurate ? his illumination was very uneven... both between shots and within a shot... total BS.

Hello,

No, not total BS, on the contrary. Besides looking at the images, reading the text would have told you that the purpose of the test was to see if there were differences between the colours of the DP1M, DP2M and DP3M, not determining absolute colour response of any of the three cameras. Therefore, to check this particular aspect out, I HAD to use the SAME manual exposure with every camera, which resulted in DIFFERENT luminance values because of the different response to light of each camera. As well, for such a test I did NOT need the illumination to be even on the card, but it to be THE SAME for each camera, which I made sure of by not changing the flash' position between shots.

I hope this clarified the issue, best

Vieri
Title: Color rendition test - thanks, Vieri
Post by: NancyP on April 02, 2013, 12:54:13 pm
The test looked accurate enough to me. Thank you, Vieri. Interesting information. DP2M user here.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on April 02, 2013, 02:04:04 pm
C'mon guys :) Please no polemic here. Vieri test is cool and we should thanks him for that. It take time and efforts to do that. So please lets post photos :

Title: Re: DP1, DP2 & DP3 color rendition
Post by: Vladimirovich on April 02, 2013, 03:02:56 pm
Hello,

No, not total BS, on the contrary. Besides looking at the images, reading the text would have told you that the purpose of the test was to see if there were differences between the colours of the DP1M, DP2M and DP3M, not determining absolute colour response of any of the three cameras.

Therefore, to check this particular aspect out, I HAD to use the SAME manual exposure with every camera, which resulted in DIFFERENT luminance values because of the different response to light of each camera.



because you did not use the same illumination to start with... and then you really do not know if SPP is using (or not) different hidden expocorrections/tone curves/etc for different camera models (like ACR/LR do)... what are you testing really ?



but it to be THE SAME for each camera


w/ flash ? not w/ some power/voltage stabilized source like halogen after sufficient time of being powered up... really ?

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: foveonconvert on April 03, 2013, 04:19:53 am
SPP using hidden expocorrection/tone curves?  If so, then no test is reliable according to you.  The guy put his time and effort into a free test for others to see.  Gave me some knowledge, instead of the BS you're typing.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Vladimirovich on April 03, 2013, 10:04:49 am
SPP using hidden expocorrection/tone curves?

may be yes, may be no - do you know for sure that it does not apply hidden corrections of any kind for different SD/DP cameras ? ACR/LR do...SPP might as well

  If so, then no test is reliable according to you. 

that's a strange conclusion... if the purpose of his tests was to show that different cameras, with different lenses (different T-stops), w/o a guarantee of the same processing by a proprietary raw converter, under not stable and uneven illumination will most probably give you different results in your workflow then yes... it is kind of obvious...






Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Vieri Bottazzini on April 03, 2013, 11:01:35 am

that's a strange conclusion... if the purpose of his tests was to show that different cameras, with different lenses (different T-stops), w/o a guarantee of the same processing by a proprietary raw converter, under not stable and uneven illumination will most probably give you different results in your workflow then yes... it is kind of obvious...


- Same processing, same proprietary RAW converter software (SPP), same general settings, same WB / colour wheel settings, etc both in the converter and in all cameras;
- Same light, stable and even, same flash position, same power (in manual);
- Same cameras in all respects except for the lenses (according to the manufacturer);
- Same exposure, same f stop, same shutter speed;
- Same relative magnification of test charts;

Pretty controlled. Pretty reliable conditions in order to determine whether the 3 Merrill cameras do or do not process colours differently, which was the purpose of the test. Testing differences in colour response between cameras, following contrasting claims on the net from people saying the DP3M processed colours differently than the DP1M/DP2M versus others saying that the colour response was identical between all the DP Merrill. No absolute colour response test here.

You don't like the test methodology and the test results? Fair enough, believe me I don't care much either way; however, if you feel strongly about it, you are welcome to design a better test and prove my results wrong. Please provide us with a link to such test once done. Until then, I'll not go into further baseless polemics with you.

Best,

Vieri
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on April 03, 2013, 05:09:33 pm
Dear Vladimirovich,

I know that in your country it is cold actually, and that your president is somewhat authoritarian but it is not an excuse to come here with such blabla. Do not transform this nice place in Dpreview... it is not Dpreview. As Vieri said, if you can do better your are welcome with your test and skills. Otherwise stop. If it disturb you then, walk away.

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Tiger1 on April 03, 2013, 11:44:25 pm
I second that! >:(
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Quentin on April 04, 2013, 01:15:19 am
Useful test, well conducted.   Anyone who does not agree is talking total BS  ;D
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Vladimirovich on April 04, 2013, 11:35:17 am
Dear Vladimirovich,

I know that in your country it is cold actually, and that your president is somewhat authoritarian but it is not an excuse to come here with such blabla. Do not transform this nice place in Dpreview... it is not Dpreview. As Vieri said, if you can do better your are welcome with your test and skills. Otherwise stop. If it disturb you then, walk away.



Dear Hulyss, which country ? I happen to have both blue and red passports...  are you trying to insult me, kid ?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Vladimirovich on April 04, 2013, 11:45:00 am
- Same processing, same proprietary RAW converter software (SPP), same general settings, same WB / colour wheel settings, etc both in the converter and in all cameras;

as noted there is no guarantee that everything being the same actually applies the same conversion behind the scenes when you are dealing w/ raw files from 2 (or 3) different cameras...


- Same light, stable and even, same flash position, same power (in manual);

light is not even and you can see it... also flash is not used to profile cameras for a reason - that is it is not stable



- Same cameras in all respects except for the lenses (according to the manufacturer);

different cameras, different firmware, different lenses, different distance to the target and w/ your light that matters too


Pretty controlled.

absolutely not...

Pretty reliable conditions in order to determine whether the 3 Merrill cameras do or do not process colours differently, which was the purpose of the test.

not "3 cameras", but 3 different cameras + 3 different firmwares + 3 different lenses + your poor illumination + SPP raw converter (which may or may not apply different processing to different camera models), etc...


Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Christopher Sanderson on April 04, 2013, 11:45:34 am
Note to Vladimirovich and Hulyss

Persist in this and you will both be banned from posting. Stick to the Topic or be gone.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on April 04, 2013, 11:56:53 am
Note to Vladimirovich and Hulyss

Persist in this and you will both be banned from posting. Stick to the Topic or be gone.

Who the hell stand here to try to keep this thread clear Dear Chriss ??

Ban me a kill my post/threads, even my "report" if I'm a "problem".

I assume.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rand47 on April 04, 2013, 12:25:31 pm
Who the hell stand here to try to keep this thread clear Dear Chriss ??

Ban me a kill my post/threads, even my "report" if I'm a "problem".

I assume.


Hulyss,

Chris is the Administrator.  He can make you disappear in an instant, which would not be good for you, or for us.  Take a chill pill, regroup, and relax.  The folk who own and run this place are nice reasonable people.  It behooves us to take their cues on when to chill out.  That's what keeps LULA a great place IMO.

By the way, my DP3 M arrives tomorrow - direct from Sigma.  I'm anxious to compare files from my DP2, and to add the longer focal length to my kit. 

Rand
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: mezzoduomo on April 05, 2013, 09:11:57 pm
Well, this thread has certainly gone quiet after the recent 'incident'.................(sound of crickets chirping in the dark).  ;)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: urbanpicasso on April 06, 2013, 08:04:32 am
link
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on April 06, 2013, 05:36:19 pm
Well, this thread has certainly gone quiet after the recent 'incident'.................(sound of crickets chirping in the dark).  ;)

I'm here but I am occupied with my workshop. We did some nice takes today it was just wonderful. Will post some later I'm dead, we did between 25 and 30 km of climbing ... no courage for SPP tonight. (And the incident is closed).
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rob C on April 07, 2013, 09:42:48 am
link



Great minds etc...

;-)

Rob C
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: gmanth on April 07, 2013, 01:50:41 pm
This 50% for 3XF

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/57b568e1e5.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/889a973f9a.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/984034728d.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

25% for jpg

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/bc7ee80abe.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/37d2c362f6.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

3XF to TIFF edit tone in ps

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/5c7f135cde.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/23aaef51f4.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: urbanpicasso on April 07, 2013, 09:01:42 pm


Great minds etc...

;-)

Rob C

Ha Ha.... excellent! ;D
db
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Slobodan Blagojevic on April 07, 2013, 09:26:49 pm
... edit tone in ps..

No woman deserves that ;)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rob C on April 08, 2013, 03:43:14 am
No woman deserves that ;)



Nor all monitors are calibrated equally well.

;-)

Rob C
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Adam L on April 10, 2013, 03:21:41 pm
I'm still getting used to this camera and have a couple of questions.

The DP2M needed a bit of positive exposure compensation - +.3 to +.7   I am finding just the opposite on the DP3M, these shots seem to come out of the camera overexposed.   Is anyone else experiencing the same and if yes, how are you compensating for it?

I am also finding that both cameras are using the same filename convention.   This is wrecking havoc on my storage as I've overwritten some old files before I realized what was happening.   How can I change the file name on one of the cameras so as to avoid this problem?

Last, when I send the TIFF files to LR the metadata often gets the date/time stamp wrong.  I sort by capture time but find outlayers that have drastically different time and dates.   I have my LR library set by date so I am losing track of where it stores images.   I find this strange and a bug that Sigma needs to fix but my personal track record is no better as it could be a case of user error.   Has anyone else encountered this?

Last last, I'm not convinced that skin tones are markedly improved over the 2M, I still get a yellowish hue that I have to adjust.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: uvl on April 10, 2013, 05:11:08 pm
Adam,
Just a quick reply concerning file names and time: The DPMerrill cameras seem to loose time information when the battery is empty or missing for a longer time. One needs to check system time from time to time if that happens. You cannot change the file name in camera but you can restart the number count from whatever number you want by putting a renamed x3f-file on your card. RTFM!
IMHO (automatic) renaming is better done on downloading. Most programs are able to rename your files on download. I use the following renaming scheme:
- prepend initials
- cut off all letters (SDIM, DSC ...) and leave number as is
- append date and time (yyyy-mm-dd-time)
- append camera model (DPxMx or whatever I want)
- reuse file ending (.x3f and .jpg)
A downloaded picture's name looks like this: UvL-8345-2013-04-08-DP2M1.x3f (or .jpg)

Uwe 8-)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: urbanpicasso on April 11, 2013, 04:24:21 am
I'm still getting used to this camera and have a couple of questions.

The DP2M needed a bit of positive exposure compensation - +.3 to +.7   I am finding just the opposite on the DP3M, these shots seem to come out of the camera overexposed.   Is anyone else experiencing the same and if yes, how are you compensating for it?

I am more often than not at -.3.
db
 
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on April 11, 2013, 06:48:35 pm
I'm actually printing some photos out of the DP3m ...  ;D alala this is soooo good  !!!

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/536235_4712346774734_530139836_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on April 12, 2013, 04:27:58 am
Ok ... the shoot above was done with a phone. Have a look closer and do not forget it is a print of a crop of the original frame, without any sharpness optimisation !

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/tempo/forumsall/PBig.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Quentin on April 12, 2013, 05:38:10 pm
Excellent, Hulyss!
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on April 12, 2013, 07:56:55 pm
Excellent, Hulyss!

Thank you Quentin :) Photo with foveon can be excellent but video ... this is an another story  ;D

Brought the son of a friend for his first time in a Z4 SDrive 35i and, of course, I gift him a DP1s to film it. I think he enjoyed the sensations, but I'm sure you trust me when I say that video is crap ;)

http://youtu.be/e48glINztwc
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: nandadevieast on April 13, 2013, 06:29:00 am
Hi,
This could have been another thread, but it concerns DP3M primarily, so i'm posting it here:

I own a DP2M and have set my eyes on a DP3M as well. But before i go for it, i think it will be prudent to find out about various third party viewfinders available in the market. Because this one is 75mm, i am afraid it will find scarce use despite its niceties...reason being the lack of a viewfinder....i don't know how to compose a short tele off a LCD screen without running a huge risk of camera shake.

Also Mr. Bowman's review report and pictures tell me this is a great studio camera, leaf shutter, tripod, table top etc...but i'm concerned with using it outdoors primarily....

These are some of the VFs i have been told about.
a) Voigtlander 75mm: this one is plain vanilla like Sigma's own VFs for DP2M and DP1M...no focus confirmation...blind date. Here's the link:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/191963-REG/Voigtlander_45DA414B_Viewfinder_for_75mm_Silver.html

b) Xtend a view:
http://www.photosolve.com/main/product/xtendaview/index.html

c) Carry speed:
http://www.picturestoexe.com/forums/index.php?/topic/15872-carry-speed-vf-3-viewfinder-and-sunshade/

d) Hoodman's hoodloupe:
http://www.hoodmanusa.com/products.asp?dept=1017

e) Clear Viewer:
http://www.clearviewer.com/Products.html

For DP2M and DP2M, one can use Sigma and VL's optical VFs. But its the DP3M which needs a VF more than others...and Sigma doesn't sell any VF with the DP3M.

What i want to know is: Do you guys have any experience with these, on any other camera also, and your experience about these.

From b) to e): They all say that they provide sort of sun shade in bright light outdoors...but what i am looking for is stability handheld...do they also provide stability like your good old OVF in DSLRs?
Another thing is: Do they show you the full scene? Or they essentially magnify only a part of it so that you can only manually focus?

Any inputs will help,
nandadevieast
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: BarbaraArmstrong on April 13, 2013, 12:17:31 pm
I love the Voigtlander 75mm VF on my DP3M.  It not only works, it looks great!  Brightlines mark the full image area, with dotted lines to compensate for parallax if you are rather close.  I don't even look down at the lcd screen any more, except to check my aperture setting, and make sure I haven't inadvertently registered an exposure compensation (the one thing I don't like about the DP2M and DP3M).  Those little left-and-right buttons, around the "OK" center-circle spot, will engage exposure compensation, often without your realizing you've hit them.  I know that my autofocus spot is in the center of the field, so when looking through the VF, I usually feel confident about what the camera is focusing on, and look out of the corner of my eye to the right for the green autofocus confirmation.  I"m typically doing landscape, and am usually looking for an infinity focus anyway, so my focus point isn't as critical as it would be in many other applications.  You can forget about any manual focusing using the VF.  There is no connection with anything going on inside the camera.  It just gives you the framelines for your shot.  Have fun choosing.  --Barbara
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on April 14, 2013, 06:51:14 am
I think that both VF and without VF work great on many situations. Mr Palpman, contributor of the DP2m thread, came on one of my workshop. As many, he do not use any VF and, even in bright sun, composing picture is extremely easy. Just need to learn (this is the correct word) how to use the screen efficiently. For me, the DP3m do not need any VF, if you are enough steady. Pictures above done by a DP3m during my workshop.

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/482843_4722586070710_1702033032_n.jpg)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/536184_4722592950882_1676213755_n.jpg)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/559404_4722592270865_2116057949_n.jpg)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/549647_4722623871655_703572283_n.jpg)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/535015_4722624551672_1251492513_n.jpg)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/552794_4722625271690_866985344_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: eronald on April 14, 2013, 06:42:31 pm
It's a different style of image. The pictures look nice, but not "realistic", no more than the images from my Nikon D1x looked realistic a dozen years ago ...

Edmund
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: stevew50 on April 14, 2013, 09:24:59 pm
I had the same problem when I received my DP2M already having a DP1M.

The trick is to set one camera as srgb the other at Prophoto. The file naming structure is different in each color mode. I only work from Raw so I pick Prophoto for saving files.

I'm still getting used to this camera and have a couple of questions.



I am also finding that both cameras are using the same filename convention.   This is wrecking havoc on my storage as I've overwritten some old files before I realized what was happening.   How can I change the file name on one of the cameras so as to avoid this problem?

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on April 15, 2013, 02:12:23 pm
Vogue Italia seems to love DP3m ;) My last publication :

http://www.vogue.it/en/photovogue/Portfolio/eb707af9-0878-487b-8fc3-01f21ff6ae8d/Fullscreen
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: gmanth on April 15, 2013, 02:48:49 pm
(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/a636b00757.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on April 15, 2013, 03:25:44 pm
More girls gmanth !!!!  ;D

Some random shots from today :

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/902974_4730112418864_549194908_o.jpg)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/560216_4730112818874_1956640354_n.jpg)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/625526_4730111938852_1654750108_n.jpg)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/64271_4730111658845_1728811965_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: gmanth on April 16, 2013, 03:36:02 am
(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/b311468c9e.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

Edit by PS
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: MrSmith on April 16, 2013, 03:52:44 am
I don't know what is going on with the processing/jpeg conversion but you are getting some strong posterisation in the model images. :-\
Unless its my iPad screen?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on April 16, 2013, 04:04:33 am
I don't know what is going on with the processing/jpeg conversion but you are getting some strong posterisation in the model images. :-\
Unless its my iPad screen?

No this is right.

Gmanth, you seems to have problem when editing your model shoots (all). If you need some help, just ask questions here and I think we will be many to answer you.

So... next girl should be correctly edited !!  ;) ;D

(or captured ... it can also be a problem of exposure on stage).
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: gmanth on April 16, 2013, 04:19:31 am
Because this pic is over exposure on stage. :P
And this is ok exposure no edit by ps. ;D

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/361d8872ff.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)
 
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Scho on April 16, 2013, 09:12:13 am
I call this rig my "GigaSig".  The Sigma DP3M mounted on a GigaPan Epic 100 robotic panorama head.  Easy setup and works very well.  Sample pano below was stitched from 12 frames using AutoPano Pro 3 (highly recommended).

(http://www.pbase.com/scho/image/149672755/original.jpg)

Click for larger (quarter of original) image.
(http://www.pbase.com/scho/image/149672757/large.jpg) (http://www.pbase.com/scho/image/149672757/original.jpg)

FULL SIZE PANO (https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/93139509/benches-Edit.jpg) (about 80 mb)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: gmanth on April 16, 2013, 12:12:26 pm
(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/4b3b6385f6.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/e6f6fc24c6.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/1217a864b9.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/0819a2af1a.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/6cad62d892.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/f4416cf839.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/76d5ca4d63.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/724bdf19d4.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/739b955545.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/548ea28fd2.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/e5a912389c.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/a821bb6c76.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/9f900a2e83.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/c9ef765c85.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/31ee256d65.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/b1e8ac1f61.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/b435e0235b.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/cff219a022.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/21450da065.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/5ae447db13.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/d64ff5f706.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/f095fd3d2b.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/ab1d970a3e.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Adam L on April 16, 2013, 12:41:46 pm
I call this rig my "GigaSig".  The Sigma DP3M mounted on a GigaPan Epic 100 robotic panorama head.  Easy setup and works very well.  Sample pano below was stitched from 12 frames using AutoPano Pro 3 (highly recommended).

(http://www.pbase.com/scho/image/149672755/original.jpg)


This is very impressive.  I thought Gigapan was useful only with their software and was intended for a large number of stitched images.   You're using it with 12 shots....is this just gear overkill or does it serve a useful purpose for the less than 20 shot stitch?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Scho on April 16, 2013, 09:55:49 pm
This is very impressive.  I thought Gigapan was useful only with their software and was intended for a large number of stitched images.   You're using it with 12 shots....is this just gear overkill or does it serve a useful purpose for the less than 20 shot stitch?
The software supplied by Gigapan was quite basic and prone to crashing frequently on my Mac so I switched to AutoPano Pro which is really excellent.  This sample pano was one of my first trials using the GigaPan with the Sigma DP3M.  I will be doing larger panos soon where the automation and precision will be quite beneficial.  Its is also fun to use. ;D
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: janus on April 17, 2013, 09:01:25 am
I call this rig my "GigaSig".  The Sigma DP3M mounted on a GigaPan Epic 100 robotic panorama head.  Easy setup and works very well.  Sample pano below was stitched from 12 frames using AutoPano Pro 3 (highly recommended).

(http://www.pbase.com/scho/image/149672755/original.jpg)


Would the Epic base model be enough with a Sigma DP-M?

Can the buffer keep up with your Epic's shooting speed?
You shoot RAW b.t.w.? At full res?
 
How well does your software take care of blending issues at the edges of the frames? I have this slight problem with panos shot with a DP2M using a rotating head on my tripod.

thanks!
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Scho on April 17, 2013, 10:55:40 am
Would the Epic base model be enough with a Sigma DP-M?

Can the buffer keep up with your Epic's shooting speed?
You shoot RAW b.t.w.? At full res?
 
How well does your software take care of blending issues at the edges of the frames? I have this slight problem with panos shot with a DP2M using a rotating head on my tripod.

thanks!

I'm not sure if the basic Epic is OK for the DPxM.  I asked which model to purchase and was told Epic 100 for the Sigma DPxMs.  The Epic 100 will also work with my Leica M9.  There is a timing setting that needs to be adjusted for the camera processing speed (extremely slow with the DPxMs).  I had mine  set initially for 12 seconds but had some overrun problems but now at 16 seconds per frame I haven't run into any problems yet.  Yes, I shoot raw at full res.  I haven't seen any blending issues with AutoPano Pro.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: abeofRD on April 18, 2013, 11:26:43 am

I'm not sure if the basic Epic is OK for the DPxM.  I asked which model to purchase and was told Epic 100 for the Sigma DPxMs.  The Epic 100 will also work with my Leica M9.  There is a timing setting that needs to be adjusted for the camera processing speed (extremely slow with the DPxMs).  I had mine  set initially for 12 seconds but had some overrun problems but now at 16 seconds per frame I haven't run into any problems yet.  Yes, I shoot raw at full res.  I haven't seen any blending issues with AutoPano Pro.


Hi,
Looks to be an excellent compliment to the Merrill's, to get extreme high resolution plus the pixel sharpness of the Merrill's should be able to reproduce very large prints.

I am in the middle of researching which pano system to purchase RRS or Nodal Ninja in order to do stitching, panos to print very high resolution files and I bumped into your post, your panos looks impressively sharp.

An automated system might be an overkill for 2-4 stitched images but the Epic 100 is cheaper than RRS or NN.

Can you elaborate more on your workflow/setup.



Thank you

Abe
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Scho on April 18, 2013, 12:57:06 pm

Hi,
Looks to be an excellent compliment to the Merrill's, to get extreme high resolution plus the pixel sharpness of the Merrill's should be able to reproduce very large prints.

I am in the middle of researching which pano system to purchase RRS or Nodal Ninja in order to do stitching, panos to print very high resolution files and I bumped into your post, your panos looks impressively sharp.

An automated system might be an overkill for 2-4 stitched images but the Epic 100 is cheaper than RRS or NN.

Can you elaborate more on your workflow/setup.



Thank you

Abe

Hi Abe,

I don't think that I would need anything more than a tripod for only 3-4 shots, but if you want to make very large prints at high resolution then the gigapan might be worth looking at.  Set-up is easy and if you are only using one camera with the epic 100 then it is a one time thing for set-up/calibration.  Instructions are here (http://www.gigapan.com/cms/manuals/setting-up-the-gigapan-epic-100).  When I start a new pano just mount the epic 100 on a sturdy tripod and level the device with camera mounted on the unit.  Check camera alignment when attaching.  Turn on camera, set fixed ISO, WB, exposure, and focus.  If you are using a very slow shutter speed you could also set the 2 sec selftimer for shutter release.  If you do make sure that your preset processing time in the epic 100 is adjusted to account for this.  Turn on the epic 100, and when "New Panorama" appears on screen press OK, go through the checklist that pops up, using the directional arrow buttons direct the camera to the scene area that you want as the upper left corner of your pano (using LCD live view), next do the same for lower right corner, you will see info on pano dimensions and number of shots, press OK and let the epic 100 do its' thing.  After a shoot I just dump the sd card files to a folder on my computer, batch them through SPP with preset WB, color mode, etc. and output 16 bit tifs to another folder.  Open AutoPano Pro, point it to the output folder, it will find and organize all of your pano files (can be for just one or several panos), present previews for each pano, and then you have the option to either edit or render the panos for your desired output.  Quick, easy, and good quality.

Have fun,
Carl
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: abeofRD on April 18, 2013, 01:14:39 pm
Hi Abe,

I don't think that I would need anything more than a tripod for only 3-4 shots, but if you want to make very large prints at high resolution then the gigapan might be worth looking at.  Set-up is easy and if you are only using one camera with the epic 100 then it is a one time thing for set-up/calibration.  Instructions are here (http://www.gigapan.com/cms/manuals/setting-up-the-gigapan-epic-100).  When I start a new pano just mount the epic 100 on a sturdy tripod and level the device with camera mounted on the unit.  Check camera alignment when attaching.  Turn on camera, set fixed ISO, WB, exposure, and focus.  If you are using a very slow shutter speed you could also set the 2 sec selftimer for shutter release.  If you do make sure that your preset processing time in the epic 100 is adjusted to account for this.  Turn on the epic 100, and when "New Panorama" appears on screen press OK, go through the checklist that pops up, using the directional arrow buttons direct the camera to the scene area that you want as the upper left corner of your pano (using LCD live view), next do the same for lower right corner, you will see info on pano dimensions and number of shots, press OK and let the epic 100 do its' thing.  After a shoot I just dump the sd card files to a folder on my computer, batch them through SPP with preset WB, color mode, etc. and output 16 bit tifs to another folder.  Open AutoPano Pro, point it to the output folder, it will find and organize all of your pano files (can be for just one or several panos), present previews for each pano, and then you have the option to either edit or render the panos for your desired output.  Quick, easy, and good quality.

Have fun,
Carl

Thank you Carl

How do you mount the Epic 100 on the tripod? Does it have a plate? I have a RRS Ballhead with a gitso tripod, also can you mount the camera vertical?

Thanks again
Abe
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: K.C. on April 18, 2013, 02:01:46 pm
An automated system might be an overkill for 2-4 stitched images but the Epic 100 is cheaper than RRS or NN.

The GP system is easy to use and I'm sure you'll produce good results. It would be hard not to with a DPM.

But if you ever want to use anything much larger, i.e. a DSLR or NEX with a longer / heavier lens, you'll find the RRS or NN can handle much more than the GP.

I've shot with both and sold the GP. I find the RRS is easy to use, considerably faster to use, a heck of lot lighter and smaller to carry and it will work with any camera.

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Scho on April 18, 2013, 03:00:03 pm
Thank you Carl

How do you mount the Epic 100 on the tripod? Does it have a plate? I have a RRS Ballhead with a gitso tripod, also can you mount the camera vertical?

Thanks again
Abe

I also use a RRS bullhead and just attach a small flat RRS camera plate to the epic for mounting.  No you cannot mount vertically and no need to do that.  The epic shoots multi rows and columns to cover your pano area.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: abeofRD on April 18, 2013, 10:49:19 pm
I also use a RRS bullhead and just attach a small flat RRS camera plate to the epic for mounting.  No you cannot mount vertically and no need to do that.  The epic shoots multi rows and columns to cover your pano area.

Thank you

What small flat RRS plates are compatible with the Merrill's?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Scho on April 19, 2013, 07:59:58 am
Thank you

What small flat RRS plates are compatible with the Merrill's?

The plate attaches to the Epic 100, not the camera.  I have a RRS L plate for the DP3M, but take it off when using the camera on the Epic 100.  This B35 Plate (http://reallyrightstuff.com/ProductDesc.aspx?code=B35&type=0&eq=B35-002&desc=B35%3a-Flat-Plate-with-two-1%2f4-inch-screws) will work OK for the Epic 100.
Title: Panorama talk
Post by: NancyP on April 19, 2013, 01:51:46 pm
Hey this is pretty interesting for  a pano newbie.
RRS user(s): why is it faster and easier to do a large panorama with RRS freehand rotation equipment vs EPIC or a Nodal Ninja - Fanotec rotator with detents? (eg, a deluxe RD16, with 16 angle interval detent options 3.75% to 120% available without having to swap out detent rings)

Currently I am attempting single-row pano with manual rotation of the ball head base (yes, rotator would be handier, but I am not sinking money into it until I learn the software - Hugin - and manage to produce OK single row panos of some local scenery).

Epic/Epic100 looks pretty simple, but may be heavier than other options. I note that RRS has a replacement bracket with central Arca-Swiss-like clamp for GigaPan products, allowing more precise No Parallax Point placement.
Title: Re: Panorama talk
Post by: Scho on April 19, 2013, 03:23:02 pm
Hey this is pretty interesting for  a pano newbie.
RRS user(s): why is it faster and easier to do a large panorama with RRS freehand rotation equipment vs EPIC or a Nodal Ninja - Fanotec rotator with detents? (eg, a deluxe RD16, with 16 angle interval detent options 3.75% to 120% available without having to swap out detent rings)

Currently I am attempting single-row pano with manual rotation of the ball head base (yes, rotator would be handier, but I am not sinking money into it until I learn the software - Hugin - and manage to produce OK single row panos of some local scenery).

Epic/Epic100 looks pretty simple, but may be heavier than other options. I note that RRS has a replacement bracket with central Arca-Swiss-like clamp for GigaPan products, allowing more precise No Parallax Point placement.

The Epic 100 is bulky, but not that heavy.  I carry it with the Sigma mounted and ready to go in a Crumpler bag, with extra batteries for both the camera and Epic.  Here is a 16 shot 4x4 pano I did this morning with the DP3M and Epic 100.  Flawless operation and very high precision.  I don't think I would want to be doing multi row and column panos manually.

FULL SIZE Pano dropbox file (https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/93139509/ButtermilkFalls16.jpg)
Title: Re: Panorama talk
Post by: K.C. on April 20, 2013, 02:54:43 am
I don't think I would want to be doing multi row and column panos manually.

Have you every shot a multi row pano manually ? It sounds like your GP is the only way you've ever shot.

It's so simple and there are advantages to working manually.
Title: Re: Panorama talk
Post by: Hulyss on April 20, 2013, 03:00:11 am
Have you every shot a multi row pano manually ? It sounds like your GP is the only way you've ever shot.

It's so simple and there are advantages to working manually.

Yes you are right. It start to be just a little difficult with the DP3m. With the 1 and 2 it is OK manually.
Title: Re: Panorama talk
Post by: Scho on April 20, 2013, 06:57:34 am
Have you every shot a multi row pano manually ? It sounds like your GP is the only way you've ever shot.

It's so simple and there are advantages to working manually.

Yes, I've shot multi row panos manually before with a dslr, but I prefer using the GP and the DP3M.  Almost effortless.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: abeofRD on April 26, 2013, 09:45:11 am
Hi Abe,

I don't think that I would need anything more than a tripod for only 3-4 shots, but if you want to make very large prints at high resolution then the gigapan might be worth looking at.  Set-up is easy and if you are only using one camera with the epic 100 then it is a one time thing for set-up/calibration.  Instructions are here (http://www.gigapan.com/cms/manuals/setting-up-the-gigapan-epic-100).  When I start a new pano just mount the epic 100 on a sturdy tripod and level the device with camera mounted on the unit.  Check camera alignment when attaching.  Turn on camera, set fixed ISO, WB, exposure, and focus.  If you are using a very slow shutter speed you could also set the 2 sec selftimer for shutter release.  If you do make sure that your preset processing time in the epic 100 is adjusted to account for this.  Turn on the epic 100, and when "New Panorama" appears on screen press OK, go through the checklist that pops up, using the directional arrow buttons direct the camera to the scene area that you want as the upper left corner of your pano (using LCD live view), next do the same for lower right corner, you will see info on pano dimensions and number of shots, press OK and let the epic 100 do its' thing.  After a shoot I just dump the sd card files to a folder on my computer, batch them through SPP with preset WB, color mode, etc. and output 16 bit tifs to another folder.  Open AutoPano Pro, point it to the output folder, it will find and organize all of your pano files (can be for just one or several panos), present previews for each pano, and then you have the option to either edit or render the panos for your desired output.  Quick, easy, and good quality.

Have fun,
Carl


Hello Carl,

I would like to know you said that you use AutoPano Pro, whats your reason you chose this over PTgui and others?

Already got the Epic 100 waiting to arrive is the plate for the Epic from RRS, should arrive today and will try it on Sunday, will try to post some examples some NYC skylines.
Just finished preparing my PC to handle the huge files, fitted with 24GB of RAM which on a Win 7 Pro 16GB is usable the rest is allocated for something which I don't know, still trying to figure out why and how can make use of all the ram without massing up the whole system which happened.

Thank you for your guidance
Abe
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Scho on April 26, 2013, 10:01:08 am

Hello Carl,

I would like to know you said that you use AutoPano Pro, whats your reason you chose this over PTgui and others?

Already got the Epic 100 waiting to arrive is the plate for the Epic from RRS, should arrive today and will try it on Sunday, will try to post some examples some NYC skylines.
Just finished preparing my PC to handle the huge files, fitted with 24GB of RAM which on a Win 7 Pro 16GB is usable the rest is allocated for something which I don't know, still trying to figure out why and how can make use of all the ram without massing up the whole system which happened.

Thank you for your guidance
Abe

I also have PTgui, which is fine, but I liked the features and convenience that AutoPano Pro has for handling files from multiple panos.  I'm operating with only 4 gb ram on a MBA with external monitor - no problems so far doing panos with up to 24 images.  If you plan on doing much larger panos then your 24 gb ram should be of value.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: gmanth on May 01, 2013, 11:58:21 am
(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/cdea7a5d2a.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/f4469390e5.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: usathyan on May 01, 2013, 12:08:54 pm
Finally brokedown and got myself a DP3M! and a Franiec grip! I have rented both Dp2M and DP3M earlier but was undecided about OMD vs. DP3M. OMD is a wonderful camera as well (had rented it out as well) and flexible as an all round camera, but ... I found repeating myself that I could never be satisfied knowing that I could never achieve the per-pixel clarity & acutance of the merrill cameras....

So, Now - will have to go back to those rusty tripods and all other gadgets revered...
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rand47 on May 18, 2013, 08:03:59 pm

(http://rsadams.smugmug.com/Other/Fine-Art-Photos/i-QgXcnMm/2/X2/_SDI0094-X2.jpg)


(http://rsadams.smugmug.com/Other/Fine-Art-Photos/i-5dVHMhx/0/X2/_SDI0094-X2.jpg)

Love my DP2, loving the DP3 too!

Rand
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on May 28, 2013, 04:59:15 pm
Lets bring up this thread ;)

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/tempo/forumsall/Pn1.jpg)

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/tempo/forumsall/Pn2.jpg)

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/tempo/forumsall/Pn3.jpg)

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/tempo/forumsall/Pn4.jpg)

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/tempo/forumsall/Pn5.jpg)

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/tempo/forumsall/Pn6.jpg)

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/tempo/forumsall/Pn7.jpg)

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/tempo/forumsall/Pn8.jpg)

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/tempo/forumsall/Pn9.jpg)
Title: Re:Buying Sigma DP3 from Canada
Post by: maxgruzen on May 31, 2013, 05:34:39 pm

Henrys in Canada have a good price on the DP3 and I am going to buy one from them for shipment to California. Anyone know if I will have problems with Warrenty issues?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on June 01, 2013, 05:10:52 am
Ok, more girls then, look like girls are forum fuel !

Charlie, one of my new models - DP3m 800 ISO

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/tempo/forumsall/Charlie3.jpg)

And Kim, at 100.

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/tempo/forumsall/Kim.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: abeofRD on June 04, 2013, 03:53:33 pm
Hello,

Here is my first samples of the DP3
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on June 05, 2013, 03:22:14 am
Hello,

Here is my first samples of the DP3

Hello abeofRD :)

Hope you'll enjoy your new camera  ;)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: abeofRD on June 05, 2013, 09:50:05 am
Thank you Hulyss,

Yes I do love the camera it takes beautiful sharp images, I like the fact that its not a point and shoot you have to put in thought and creativity to take an image.
I paired it together with a Gigapan system I hope to post some samples soon if only I would know how to post images it inline with the message not as an attachment.

Good day
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on June 07, 2013, 02:52:48 pm
22h30
(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/tempo/forumsall/2230.jpg)

1000ISO
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/977821_507968422589526_1098797132_o.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rand47 on June 20, 2013, 04:39:22 pm
I continue to be absolutely astounded by the detail rendering of these little bricks.

(http://rsadams.smugmug.com/Other/Fine-Art-Photos/i-vzc5Dwh/0/L/_SDI0110-L.jpg)

(http://rsadams.smugmug.com/Other/Fine-Art-Photos/i-Qj8ZMwB/1/XL/_SDI0110-XL.jpg)

Here's a link to a full size image: http://rsadams.smugmug.com/Other/Fine-Art-Photos/i-vzc5Dwh/0/O/_SDI0110.jpg
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: MrSmith27 on June 28, 2013, 06:07:31 pm
I continue to be absolutely astounded by the detail rendering of these little bricks.

(http://rsadams.smugmug.com/Other/Fine-Art-Photos/i-vzc5Dwh/0/L/_SDI0110-L.jpg)

(http://rsadams.smugmug.com/Other/Fine-Art-Photos/i-Qj8ZMwB/1/XL/_SDI0110-XL.jpg)

Here's a link to a full size image: http://rsadams.smugmug.com/Other/Fine-Art-Photos/i-vzc5Dwh/0/O/_SDI0110.jpg

you should shoot in raw, it will look even sharper.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rand47 on June 28, 2013, 09:31:33 pm
you should shoot in raw, it will look even sharper.

What makes you think I don't shoot RAW?  These are uploads to SmugMug.

I shoot RAW to Sigma SPP to 16 bitt tiff to LR5 to "publish to" SmugMug for net display.

Rand
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: MrSmith27 on June 29, 2013, 03:01:18 pm
What makes you think I don't shoot RAW?  These are uploads to SmugMug.

I shoot RAW to Sigma SPP to 16 bitt tiff to LR5 to "publish to" SmugMug for net display.

Rand

Because mine look sharper :-p

Seriously, maybe you didn't use a tripod or your focus is slightly off. Something is wrong, because these can be even sharper. Look, that's a great picture and even now it's way, way sharper than lesser cameras but I think you can get it even sharper. :D

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: gmanth on July 02, 2013, 01:44:42 pm

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/e9c086dcbf.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/9d8bd69437.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/45f560c67f.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/762bbdd051.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/995e21ea73.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/99b69de9a9.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/60e084f26d.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rand47 on July 02, 2013, 04:02:01 pm


(http://rsadams.smugmug.com/Other/Fine-Art-Photos/i-VFHWckb/0/X3/_P3M0150-Edit-X3.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on July 02, 2013, 05:43:18 pm
Rand47: Foveon magic in this pic!

gmant's photos deserve a top of page too, and we want more!

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/e9c086dcbf.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/9d8bd69437.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/45f560c67f.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/762bbdd051.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/995e21ea73.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/99b69de9a9.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/60e084f26d.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Slobodan Blagojevic on July 02, 2013, 06:13:56 pm
... gmant's photos deserve a top of page too, and we want more!

For a moment, I was confused... had I clicked on Instagram or what? ;)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: BarbaraArmstrong on July 02, 2013, 06:54:32 pm
Yes, Gmanth got "the look."  Very lovely.  And +1 to the wish to see more.  --Barbara
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: gmanth on July 15, 2013, 04:22:41 am
(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/1f0e8c4a85.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/81fa2eadb3.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/55f8f5a2f3.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/3e64d4791e.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/ca5e846d85.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/dd7cbd820a.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/fa9dfcd96c.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: BarbaraArmstrong on July 15, 2013, 02:30:13 pm
Thanks for the additional post.  Absolutely gorgeous images!  --Barbara
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rand47 on July 17, 2013, 09:36:34 pm
+1  thanks for sharing. 

Rand
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on July 19, 2013, 08:14:08 am
Great stuff!

I got myself a DP3M lately and took it on a trip to Bordeaux. I found it more difficult to use than the DP2M, it seems to be a very different camera actually, not in operation but the shooting experience is something new. But with some practice, I'm sure I'll get excellent results eventually. Here are some of my first shots:

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0004.jpg)

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0095.jpg)

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0110.jpg)

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0117.jpg)

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0134.jpg)

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0144.jpg)

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0178.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: MarkL on July 22, 2013, 07:57:18 am
How usable is this camera for fashion work? I realise it will never be the ideal tool but I'm fed up with having problems with security even in out of the way places in London despite the fact the work in non-commerical. They take one look at a dslr, tell you it cannot be non-commerical and kick you off.

My prime concerns are stability with no viewfinder, shooting speed and focusing. Colour accuracy isn't critical since it will not be used for jobs.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on August 04, 2013, 02:07:18 pm
God I love my DP3M. I also have a few shots taken at 1250 iso, really, noise isn't an issue.

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3M0217.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: allegretto on August 04, 2013, 03:14:45 pm
Just got mine

I thought the RX-1 produced amazing images... till now.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Deardorff on August 05, 2013, 10:24:56 am
I really cannot understand why Sigma is not building in a viewfinder for obvious pro or passionate users.

This is not a mom-pop camera.

One more here for an eye level viewfinder.

Just can't deal with holding the camera out to shoot. Also, in dimly lit venues the bright screen screws up the night vision big time... as well as spotlighting me in the shadows. Really ruins shooting in jazz clubs.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Themsquaredgroup on August 16, 2013, 06:20:55 pm
Yes, its very good with fashion. I used it for a 4 page editorial last week. Once it runs i will post images.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Themsquaredgroup on August 16, 2013, 06:24:53 pm
Another
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: mark_au on August 18, 2013, 09:13:32 pm
Hi Themsquaredgroup,

great images thanks for posting. I own a DP2m, would like to ask what software you use apart from Sigma Photo Pro for post processing.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on August 22, 2013, 06:49:32 am
No major post processing, just crop and exposure adjustment using SPP.

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0371.jpg)

Nicolas

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rand47 on August 24, 2013, 05:01:43 pm
Three-shot stack in Helicon Focus  (by the way, I've had better results with re-focus and stack, rather than using my focus rail - go figure).

(http://rsadams.smugmug.com/Still-Life/Still-LIfe/i-JmrqGfh/0/XL/Stack%20of%20Three-Edit-XL.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: BarbaraArmstrong on August 24, 2013, 09:39:40 pm
Loved the three-shot stack! --Barbara
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: billh on August 25, 2013, 01:05:16 pm
This is an incredibly appealing image. I’d not heard of focus stacking until I read your and Barbara’s comments, but interestingly yesterday I was wondering if combining multiple shots with different planes of focus might work. After seeing your photo, I looked up the technique - yet another incentive to buy the DP3M to go with my 2M....
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rand47 on August 25, 2013, 02:14:19 pm
Barbara, Bill . . .

Thanks for the kind comments.  I bought the DP3 for just such work, and I'm making progress getting it dialed in.

/thread digression

Bill, yes... focus stacking is a pretty powerful concept for macro work, but as seen here has application for extending the DOF while keeping the aperture of the lens at its sharpest spot in more normal work.  Many landscape photographers also do stacks to get near ground / background extended DOF.

I've found Helicon Focus to work best for me, though Photoshop has this utility as well, and there are other software products out there for this.
There is even a "freeware" available that you might want to check out: http://zerenesystems.com/cms/stacker/softwaredownloads (http://zerenesystems.com/cms/stacker/softwaredownloads)

Here is another example that I've posted before (taken w/ a900) that illustrates what can be done with landscape work.  This image was shot at 200 mm on a FF camera.  Five shots were made, each focused on one of the trees moving front to back.  Stacking made possible a sense of DOF that would not be possible at this focal length otherwise:

(http://rsadams.smugmug.com/Landscape/Landscapes-1/i-h6QPWcw/0/L/stacked%20trees-L.jpg)

Sequoias - Mariposa Grove - Yosemite

end digression /

Best regards,
Rand
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: billh on August 25, 2013, 08:46:52 pm
Thanks Rand. The subject is fascinating. I assumed images like the trees you posted were the province off view cameras, or perhaps the shift/tilt lenses. This really opens up possibilities for macro, and as you point out for landscape photography too.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Themsquaredgroup on August 26, 2013, 01:16:52 pm
I use photoshop and Lightroom. For these photos i just pulled back the saturation. Nothing else.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: gmanth on August 26, 2013, 01:28:31 pm
(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/4ed75ff23e.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

(http://s9.postimg.org/vr3f7v3wv/P3_M1176_copy.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
images hosting (http://postimage.org/)

(http://s7.postimg.org/e2w3evpnv/P3_M1121_copy.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
image hosting facebook (http://postimage.org/)

(http://s11.postimg.org/6nhee1iar/P3_M1135_copy.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
greenshot free download (http://postimage.org/app.php)


(http://s21.postimg.org/nwie09euf/P3_M1145_copy.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
image ru (http://postimage.org/)

(http://s23.postimg.org/3nz3lee2z/P3_M1128_copy.jpg) (http://postimage.org/)
image hosting 10mb limit (http://postimage.org/)

(http://img.ihere.org/uploads/a5e547ee28.jpg) (http://img.ihere.org)

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Slobodan Blagojevic on August 26, 2013, 03:12:26 pm
Finally, Foveon's signature yellow-greenish cast put to a good use ;)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on September 01, 2013, 01:43:42 pm
Fall is coming, I'm looking forward to using the DP3M for nature and landscapes.

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0410.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rand47 on September 01, 2013, 05:23:48 pm
Eight-frame focus stack in Helicon.

(http://rsadams.smugmug.com/Still-Life/Still-LIfe/i-pJz2KRz/0/XL/Stack%20Two%20Final-XL.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Slobodan Blagojevic on September 01, 2013, 07:56:15 pm
That's really fine lighting, composition and colors! Excellent!
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rand47 on September 01, 2013, 08:55:27 pm
That's really fine lighting, composition and colors! Excellent1

Slobodan,

Thanks very much, appreciate the comment all the more coming from you!
Window light with lots of reflectors and scrims to shape the light. 

Rand
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: francois on September 02, 2013, 06:03:27 am
Fall is coming, I'm looking forward to using the DP3M for nature and landscapes.

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0410.jpg)

Where is it?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: NancyP on September 02, 2013, 06:26:37 pm
Rand 47, everything about that shot is just right / harmonious.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on September 03, 2013, 02:29:01 pm
francois:

This is in Switzerland, near Jaun to be precise. More pics will follow soon, the colors here are getting just amazing!
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: EricWHiss on September 03, 2013, 02:44:16 pm
Rand47
Nice image! Looks great!
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: francois on September 04, 2013, 09:20:37 am
francois:

This is in Switzerland, near Jaun to be precise. More pics will follow soon, the colors here are getting just amazing!

Hi,
Thanks for the info… I'll try to visit that region and I'm eager to see new images!
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: billh on September 05, 2013, 07:03:29 pm
Eight-frame focus stack in Helicon.

(http://rsadams.smugmug.com/Still-Life/Still-LIfe/i-pJz2KRz/0/XL/Stack%20Two%20Final-XL.jpg)


I never much cared for this type of image in a painting, but here, this is simply stunning. Clearly every facet of this photo is technically perfect, but there is something beyond that, and this is what is so intriguing and beguiling.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rand47 on September 05, 2013, 08:42:36 pm
Nancy, Eric, Bill ...

Thank you for the kind words.  The little DPs are allowing me to move in a direction I've always loved - with the look, feel and detail I've never been able to achieve heretofore (at least in terms of affordable, accessible equipment and technology).  We live in amazing times.  

This was shot on my dining room table.  Window light with many little home-made scrims and reflectors to shape and balance the light.  The little camera looks ridiculous clamped to my large tripod!   ;D

Rand
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Misirlou on September 26, 2013, 04:58:01 pm
So I assume that there is no way of automating the individual focus points in the stack with these cameras, right? Meaning you used live view and manually set focus for each of the shots? Was that a difficult process, and do you think it could be achieved in the field shooting landscapes?

I'm renting one of these devils for a few days next month. Too expensive for me to just take the plunge without knowing if it's something I could use for sellable work, in a practical sense.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rand47 on September 27, 2013, 08:33:04 pm
So I assume that there is no way of automating the individual focus points in the stack with these cameras, right? Meaning you used live view and manually set focus for each of the shots? Was that a difficult process, and do you think it could be achieved in the field shooting landscapes?

I'm renting one of these devils for a few days next month. Too expensive for me to just take the plunge without knowing if it's something I could use for sellable work, in a practical sense.

Yes, manually set.  At any given aperture and distance-to-subject, a little practice makes it fairly easy & repeatable.  Even easier for landscape distances and takes fewer frames at optimum aperture (for sharpness) for good front to back depth.  I use a Hoodman loupe sometimes when I need to see my points more precisely.  For this image, a couple of practice runs got me dialed in.  I hate fly-by-wire manual focus in general, but the the sound produced by the Sigma's focusing actually helps me be more precise - go figure!

I think you'll easily get the feel for it.  I'd reccomend testing at home for landscape distances at you preferred aperture.  Being able to check stack quality immediately will go a long way toward getting a routine that will be dependable in the field.  

Let me add that the Foveon sensor is very sensitive to under exposure. So when your rental arrives make your first tests be to dial in an appropriate ex-comp setting.  E.g. w/ my DP2 I start at +.7, and w/ the DP3 it is +.3.
Under exposure will produce an inordinate increase in shadow noise, and when severe, ugly and uncorrectable banding.  These cameras have stunning image quality, but within very limited parameters.  I truly love mine and would probably give up my other gear before I did the Merrills.  Addictive.

Rand
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Vladimirovich on September 28, 2013, 12:53:06 am
Let me add that the Foveon sensor is very sensitive to under exposure. So when your rental arrives make your first tests be to dial in an appropriate ex-comp setting.  E.g. w/ my DP2 I start at +.7, and w/ the DP3 it is +.3.
next public release of rawdigger (www.rawdigger.com) will support Merrill's raw files, so you can see raw histogramm for the current generations of Sigma cameras and see how your metering + exposure compensation corresponds w/ raw channels saturation.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: derAngler on September 28, 2013, 02:30:29 pm
I am thinking about buying a DP3 for landscape photography, but I am a little bit concerned about the color accuracy produced by the Foveon sensor. I use a Pentax 645D, so I have high expectations in this regard. How do autumn colors look with this camera?

Jan
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: thefl on September 28, 2013, 05:03:57 pm
I am thinking about buying a DP3 for landscape photography, but I am a little bit concerned about the color accuracy produced by the Foveon sensor.
Colors usually look very true to personal impression, unless one of the channels gets clipped. If that happens they're totally off. Unfortunately the red channel clips very fast with the Merrills. Subjects like red flowers need consideration in this regard, subjects like bright lights are virtually impossible not looking severely clipped without rendering the rest of the scene unusable due to extreme underexposure needed for the lights.

For mentioned reason I tend to avoid scenes with bright lights (red backlights of cars are horrible) and too many bright and saturated reddish hues in them.
For landscape photography, these problems are hardly ever relevant and the Merrills can show their full potential in terms of the nicest, crispest and least digital looking images I have ever seen from a digital sensor this side of high end medium format backs.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Tiger1 on September 28, 2013, 11:17:08 pm
I am thinking about buying a DP3 for landscape photography, but I am a little bit concerned about the color accuracy produced by the Foveon sensor. I use a Pentax 645D, so I have high expectations in this regard. How do autumn colors look with this camera?

Jan
I'd stick with the Pentax 645D!!!
Of course if you want portability, the Merrills are good.  You might also want to look at the SD1m with the new 18-35mm F1.8 lens. Probably a more versatile arrangement and that lens has some of the best write ups for a zoom I have seen (and an unheard of constant F1.8 aperture!). Combine that with the new 50mm F1.4 Art lens coming out next year and you have a killer combo with the same "Foveon look". Just a thought...
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: derAngler on September 29, 2013, 02:56:45 am
That sounds like an interesting option. But I would like to reduce the weight even more, so the Merrill, combined with a Sony RX1R and/or a Ricoh GR is probably going to be my travel gear. The whole 645D setup with 3 lenses, big tripod and all accessories is really nice but weights more than 10kg.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: thefl on September 29, 2013, 09:55:31 am
That sounds like an interesting option. But I would like to reduce the weight even more, so the Merrill, combined with a Sony RX1R and/or a Ricoh GR is probably going to be my travel gear. The whole 645D setup with 3 lenses, big tripod and all accessories is really nice but weights more than 10kg.
Well, then let's make a deal. You get my DP3M + RX1R and I will only take your 645D setup...   ;)

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: derAngler on September 30, 2013, 05:38:30 pm
Hmmm..., I think I have to reconsider my purchase. Getting two cameras and giving only one away. That sounds like a fair deal to me.  ;)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: derAngler on September 30, 2013, 05:40:56 pm
I have another question about the Merrills. If I buy a Merrill in Japan, can I switch the menu to English or is it Japanese only?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: thefl on October 01, 2013, 05:21:31 am
I have another question about the Merrills. If I buy a Merrill in Japan, can I switch the menu to English or is it Japanese only?
According to the official japanese website, the japanese version of the DP3 features the same languages as anywhere else.
See for yourself, important parts in blue:
表示言語: 日本語/英語/ドイツ語/フランス語/スペイン語/イタリア語/中国語(簡体字)/中国語(繁体字)/韓国語/ロシア語/オランダ語/ポーランド語/ポルトガル語/デンマーク語/スウェーデン語/ノルウェー語/フィンランド語
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: derAngler on October 01, 2013, 08:08:27 am
Thank you very much. This is very helpful. I was not sure about it, because I couldn't find a Sony RX1R in Japan with an English menu.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: NancyP on October 11, 2013, 06:08:01 pm
Well, this forum has been bad for the pocketbook. I just placed my order for the DP3. I am anxiously anticipating that Foveon goodness.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: derAngler on October 12, 2013, 12:29:16 pm
I just received mine today. All I can say is "wow". Really impressive image quality. When viewed at 100% it looks incredible even compared with my 645D.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Misirlou on October 17, 2013, 04:08:33 pm
Yes, manually set.  At any given aperture and distance-to-subject, a little practice makes it fairly easy & repeatable.  Even easier for landscape distances and takes fewer frames at optimum aperture (for sharpness) for good front to back depth.  I use a Hoodman loupe sometimes when I need to see my points more precisely.  For this image, a couple of practice runs got me dialed in.  I hate fly-by-wire manual focus in general, but the the sound produced by the Sigma's focusing actually helps me be more precise - go figure!

I think you'll easily get the feel for it.  I'd reccomend testing at home for landscape distances at you preferred aperture.  Being able to check stack quality immediately will go a long way toward getting a routine that will be dependable in the field.  

Let me add that the Foveon sensor is very sensitive to under exposure. So when your rental arrives make your first tests be to dial in an appropriate ex-comp setting.  E.g. w/ my DP2 I start at +.7, and w/ the DP3 it is +.3.
Under exposure will produce an inordinate increase in shadow noise, and when severe, ugly and uncorrectable banding.  These cameras have stunning image quality, but within very limited parameters.  I truly love mine and would probably give up my other gear before I did the Merrills.  Addictive.

Rand

So I had a rented DP2M to use last weekend, and a Canon 6D. I like the 6D (and may still buy one at some point), but I ordered a DP2 immediately. The sharpness is hardly to be believed, and the tonal smoothness compared to my other digital gear reminds me of the difference between 35mm and 6X7 MF film.

Actually, working with the DP2 reminds me a bit of using MF and 4X5 film cameras in another way: You have to be extra attentive to exposure and composition. The Foveon highlight clipping can be very sharp, and the 6D seemed to have quite a bit more dynamic range than the Sigma. But, when you get exposure taken care of properly, the resulting file is a thing of beauty.

People complain about Foveon color balance, but I find it no more difficult to handle in raw conversion than any other sensor, other than the fact that SPP itself is so slow and cumbersome. As soon as Adobe begins supporting the Merrill raw files, that problem will go away.

So now I have to decide which DPX to get next. I really see a DP3M as inevitable, and probably a DP1M as well. Would most of you suggest the DP3M next, or the DP1M, for typical landscape use?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on October 17, 2013, 05:05:10 pm
So I had a rented DP2M to use last weekend, and a Canon 6D. I like the 6D (and may still buy one at some point), but I ordered a DP2 immediately. The sharpness is hardly to be believed, and the tonal smoothness compared to my other digital gear reminds me of the difference between 35mm and 6X7 MF film.

Actually, working with the DP2 reminds me a bit of using MF and 4X5 film cameras in another way: You have to be extra attentive to exposure and composition. The Foveon highlight clipping can be very sharp, and the 6D seemed to have quite a bit more dynamic range than the Sigma. But, when you get exposure taken care of properly, the resulting file is a thing of beauty.

People complain about Foveon color balance, but I find it no more difficult to handle in raw conversion than any other sensor, other than the fact that SPP itself is so slow and cumbersome. As soon as Adobe begins supporting the Merrill raw files, that problem will go away.

So now I have to decide which DPX to get next. I really see a DP3M as inevitable, and probably a DP1M as well. Would most of you suggest the DP3M next, or the DP1M, for typical landscape use?

I would recommend you the DP3m, period. You will not regret it.

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on October 17, 2013, 06:28:41 pm
I agree, I love my DP3M so much I'm not using my DP2M that much any more. God I love this thing.

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0535.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on October 18, 2013, 07:37:29 am
Hulyss was right: the Merrills like water, just look at it on this shot:

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0539.jpg)

Gotta love the bokeh too:

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0591.jpg)

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0584.jpg)

Today is a wonderful autumn day here in Switzerland, and the colors are amazing. I'm going for a walk with my DP3M  :)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: NancyP on October 18, 2013, 12:45:41 pm
T minus 20 hours......until First Official Light for my just-arrived DP3M. Batteries are charged, Milich grip/L bracket attached, 52mm hood and polarizer located, can't wait!  Happily, this weekend is likely the height of fall color.

Has anyone determined the entrance pupil /  "No Parallax Point" (wrongly AKA "nodal point") for DP3M?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Bruce Cox on October 18, 2013, 01:29:50 pm
T minus 20 hours......until First Official Light for my just-arrived DP3M. Batteries are charged, Milich grip/L bracket attached, 52mm hood and polarizer located, can't wait!  Happily, this weekend is likely the height of fall color.

Has anyone determined the entrance pupil /  "No Parallax Point" (wrongly AKA "nodal point") for DP3M?

No, when I look in the lens I see what looks like a shutter.  The diaphragm must be behind it somewhere and that is where I have heard is the best pivot point for panos.  [My battery hasn't charged yet so I can't open the shutter and looked.]  Much of my attention has been absorbed looking for the second battery or information on whether Alexcious intended to ship one in the first place.  Has anyone else shopped using Alexcious and Amazon?  And how many batteries did you get?






Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: NancyP on October 18, 2013, 03:33:31 pm
I bought mine at B and H, and it came in a Sigma original box with two batteries, each wrapped in a small polyethylene clear bag. The Sigma box had a camera compartment and an "everything else" compartment, containing battery charger, two batteries, two or three individually bagged camera to USBetc cables, a shoulder strap, and the paperwork consisting of manual, warranty card, and some other single sheet of paper. When you order from Sigma direct, you get the same as above. Sigma KNOWS that the battery life is p*ss-poor    :-[   and wisely supplies two batteries.

I will just determine the entrance pupil/ no-parallax point empirically, as I have done for other camera/lens combos. Yes, this is for panoramas. Google is my friend, here's Robert Tobler's empirically determined NPP:

"I determined the so called entrance pupil (i.e. the no-parallax point, incorrectly often called nodal point) of my Sigma DPx Merrill cameras for the hyper-focal setting at f/11. The entrance pupil of the DPx Merrills is different for different focus settings since the front lens of the cameras moves back and forth when focussing. I found the following values for the distance of the entrance pupil to the center of the tripod mounts:

    DP1M: 38mm
    DP2M: 32.5mm
    DP3M: 37mm

The hyper-focal setting at f/11 of the DP1M and DP2M was computed for a very small circle of confusion (0.008mm, slightly more than the size of the diagonal of a pixel), in order to retain most of the sharpness of these cameras. On my camera an easy way to set these two cameras to this hyper-focal setting is to put the camera into manual focussing mode, and move the focus mark beneath the center of the left loop of the infinity sign.

The hyper-focal setting of the DP3M is even further towards infinity, but the movements of the front lens so close to infinity are very small, so the above entrance pupil figure works.

For near-field panoramas, larger offsets need to be used, as the front lens moves forward for smaller focus distances. (This is especially true for the DP3M!)"

http://www.dpreview.com/forums/thread/3530975
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: NancyP on October 18, 2013, 03:40:31 pm
P.S. For those who like making a preliminary composition through a viewfinder (and incidentally saving on battery charge) before the final adjustment on LCD, Voigtlander makes a 75mm (for full frame, = 50mm DP3M) viewfinder that fits in the shoe. I bought mine used off eBay, but the Voigtlander specialist shops and B and H have this new still - its manufacture has been discontinued. It comes in silver and black versions. It is a nice small bright viewfinder.

Yes, what you see looking into the lens is the leaf shutter. You can have a fake shutter sound or turn the sound off for truly silent operation.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Bruce Cox on October 18, 2013, 04:12:16 pm
Thanks, I will measure my brackets.  With these specifications my first try at a cobbled togather pano rig may work.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Fine_Art on October 18, 2013, 06:59:02 pm
I agree, I love my DP3M so much I'm not using my DP2M that much any more. God I love this thing.

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0535.jpg)

Nice. I think that is a better example of bokeh than the following shots.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on October 19, 2013, 05:49:04 am
Right, here's another one  ;)

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0545.jpg)

And I still can't believe how sharp this thing is, it makes me dizzy sometimes:

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0455.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: slowframe on October 19, 2013, 07:58:19 pm
I've been enjoying the photos on this thread. I thought I ought to include one of my own.

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on October 20, 2013, 06:17:34 am
Always pleasing seeing new satisfied users :)

(https://scontent-b-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/1375925_10200813505088056_1269561392_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: billh on October 20, 2013, 07:31:33 am
Always pleasing seeing new satisfied users :)

(https://scontent-b-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/1375925_10200813505088056_1269561392_n.jpg)


Incredibly striking. what processing did you use the get the eye like this?

Thanks,

Bill
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on October 20, 2013, 07:59:15 am
There is no processing this is the eye of a friend.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: TVGallant on October 20, 2013, 08:21:19 am
Using the values for the DP1 M and DP2 M ...

DP1M = 38
DP2M = 32.5

it appears the distance from center of mount screw hole to the back edge of the ribbed portion of the focus ring does equal the NPP (no-parallax point).  Therefore the back edge of the ribbed area becomes the point of pivot for panoramic imaging.    See attached image ...

I do not have the DP3M but suspect it may reflect the 37mm distance.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on October 23, 2013, 11:49:55 am
I really enjoy the film-like rendering of the Foveon:

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0625.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: rljones on October 24, 2013, 09:41:41 am
I measured 'nodal point' while rotating camera with stopped down diaphragm and using a slit laser. For a stable laser across the diaphragm, I found these measurements, based from center of tripod mount:

DP1M = 38mm

DP2M = 32mm

DP3M = 36mm

I then CNC machined and powder-coated a mounting bracket using Front Panel Express. I can post of photo later. It works well with all 3 bodies.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Ligament on October 24, 2013, 03:34:38 pm
I measured 'nodal point' while rotating camera with stopped down diaphragm and using a slit laser. For a stable laser across the diaphragm, I found these measurements, based from center of tripod mount:

DP1M = 38mm

DP2M = 32mm

DP3M = 36mm

I then CNC machined and powder-coated a mounting bracket using Front Panel Express. I can post of photo later. It works well with all 3 bodies.

Would you mind explaining how you used the slit laser? is there a tutorial or video anywhere on this?

Also please post photos of the mounting bracket! I'll buy one if you are selling!
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: NancyP on October 24, 2013, 07:56:59 pm
I just do the usual empirical NPP determination of lining up a near and far vertical (usually my window frame and the highrise one block away). I got 32mm for the DP2M using this method. There are NPP tables for common lenses, but often you have to do your own determinations.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Misirlou on October 25, 2013, 01:32:37 am
I recently used the bracket hiking around Lake Louise and the Burgess Shale; it was very convenient.

Ooh, there's a place I've wanted to see for a long time. Please share any Merrill shots that you can.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on October 27, 2013, 04:44:35 pm
A bad photo:

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0664.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Bruce Cox on October 27, 2013, 07:29:36 pm
This bracket needs a 3/4" shim, such as the cylinder under the acorn nut [which is where the camera goes], but can be effective.  It is seven dollars at McMaster-Carr, under modular furniture.  The holes are 5/16" and close enough to 38 mm on center that the play of quarter inch screws allow it to work for the DP1 and 3, if not the 2.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: allegretto on October 27, 2013, 11:46:42 pm
absolutely no financial interest here, but this is my solution for a my MP-2M and 3M

http://reallyrightstuff.com/Items.aspx?code=NodalSlides&key=cat

I bought the 192 since the you can also rotate the clamp and use it as a bracket for any purpose.

Note the MPL's work too, and are a bit less, but you move the camera in one and the slide in the other. Also a level in the II
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Sauza on October 30, 2013, 04:58:11 pm
Autumn in Weinstadt, Germany.

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3825/10491019373_1eb26e38cb_b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87240011@N02/10491019373/)
_SDI0480 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87240011@N02/10491019373/) by El Sauza (http://www.flickr.com/people/87240011@N02/), on Flickr

(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5501/10490806915_d837371c4f_b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87240011@N02/10490806915/)
_SDI0487 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/87240011@N02/10490806915/) by El Sauza (http://www.flickr.com/people/87240011@N02/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: NancyP on October 30, 2013, 05:05:26 pm
Beautiful grapes. May they be put to good use soon  ;)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: narikin on October 31, 2013, 07:35:46 pm
absolutely no financial interest here, but this is my solution for a my MP-2M and 3M

http://reallyrightstuff.com/Items.aspx?code=NodalSlides&key=cat

I bought the 192 since the you can also rotate the clamp and use it as a bracket for any purpose.

Note the MPL's work too, and are a bit less, but you move the camera in one and the slide in the other. Also a level in the II

sorry - there's 3 RRS '192 packages' on the page you link to - which one did you buy/recommend?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: narikin on October 31, 2013, 07:46:58 pm
next public release of rawdigger (www.rawdigger.com) will support Merrill's raw files, so you can see raw histogramm for the current generations of Sigma cameras and see how your metering + exposure compensation corresponds w/ raw channels saturation.


any estimation of when this is coming?  I'm kind of exhausted wrestling with Sigma DPP.

whoops - I see it is now supported!  Any experience if its an improvement on DPP anyone?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: allegretto on November 01, 2013, 10:20:52 pm
sorry - there's 3 RRS '192 packages' on the page you link to - which one did you buy/recommend?


sorry, copied wrong address... "Precision Plus 192"

http://reallyrightstuff.com/ProductDesc.aspx?code=192-PPP&type=4&eq=192-PPP-002&desc=192-Precision-Plus-Package&key=ait
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: MrSmith27 on November 05, 2013, 03:17:39 pm

Incredibly striking. what processing did you use the get the eye like this?

Thanks,

Bill

I've had the same question before so I looked a bit in possible workflows. This one here seems to work for me:

1. Take out Sigma DP3M.
2. Focus on eye under good lightning conditions.
3. Press shutter.
4. Done.




Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill’s sensor and lens performance (DP3 MTF)
Post by: billh on November 20, 2013, 07:37:49 pm
Sigma DP3 Merrill’s sensor and lens performance (DP3 MTF)

This site has a variety of DP3M images which show detail when the cursor is moved over the image,

http://sigma-rumors.com/articles/sigma-dp3-merrill-review/sigma-dp3-merrill-sensor-lens-performance/
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: KevinA on November 22, 2013, 04:35:15 am
A bad photo:

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0664.jpg)
So bad it's brilliant.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: lelouarn on November 22, 2013, 05:14:49 am
The picture of the eye is really stunning !

I remember seeing in a french magazine (maybe 15 years ago) a series of pictures of only eyes. The eyes were magnified to fill the entire frame and isolated (presumably by stretching the eyelid out of the way), so that one could only see the eye in isolation. It was beautiful (I also remember Jean d'Ormesson was among "the eyes"). Certainly your friends eye would deserve such a "treatment".

It must be quite difficuly though - lots of magnification to fill the frame with the eye (so camera close to the eye), and the lighting must be tricky too.

Anyway, beautiful picture...
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: MrSmith27 on November 22, 2013, 05:40:27 am
Amazon craziness. I don't like it: On the German amazon until a few days ago the DP3M sold for about EUR 800, then it suddenly dropped to EUR 730 (so I bought one), and later the same day it dropped to EUR 530, now it's up at 570.

This is insanity.

I also think it's not a very good idea for Sigma to reduce the Merrill prices. These are more technical cameras than point and shots and, considering the image quality, were a steal at EUR 1000. I think by reducing the price they are actually not doing themselves a favor: Like it or not the actual target demographic might think cheap=bad and those in the market for a Canon S120 will probably not like the Merrills.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: NancyP on November 22, 2013, 11:35:02 am
On the other hand, once enthusiasts and pros have tried a Foveon sensor, they get quite interested. I am a mere enthusiast, and despite the PITA of having dual workflow for x3f and Bayer CFA RAW data, I am enjoying the camera the more I work with it and SPP. First DP2M, then after a year, DP3M (WOW), and now I am looking at eBay and dealers for used or new DP1M. I noticed that there are VERY FEW used DP#M on the market. Few cameras have been sold new, but if first time users are being alienated, I would expect to see more used copies. Nope - there might be one new posting of a used camera, worldwide, per week at best.

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Misirlou on November 22, 2013, 04:09:47 pm
On the other hand, once enthusiasts and pros have tried a Foveon sensor, they get quite interested. I am a mere enthusiast, and despite the PITA of having dual workflow for x3f and Bayer CFA RAW data, I am enjoying the camera the more I work with it and SPP. First DP2M, then after a year, DP3M (WOW), and now I am looking at eBay and dealers for used or new DP1M. I noticed that there are VERY FEW used DP#M on the market. Few cameras have been sold new, but if first time users are being alienated, I would expect to see more used copies. Nope - there might be one new posting of a used camera, worldwide, per week at best.



That's true. I got my DP2M used, from a guy in Korea, at a rather slim discount over new. I don't know whether they'll ever reach critical mass in the marketplace, but holy cow do these things make great pictures.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: ron ritcher on November 22, 2013, 09:17:16 pm
Nancy,

Regarding your being on the lookout for a DP1, I've sent you a pm...

Ron
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: KevinA on November 23, 2013, 02:31:33 pm


Sometimes, buying immediately is better: witness the Rootes Group's Hillman Imp.

My maw'n'lo bought one of the very first off the line - they were built within ten miles of her house. I had a little Ford Popular at the time, and it was reaching its fifth or sixth birthday and I wanted something newer, more radical. I tried out her Imp and it was a revelation in acceleration and the benefit of an opening tailgate window. (Think 9ft Colorama background rolls.) So, off went the Pop and in came the Imp. Except. Except that the Coventry Climax engine that had allowed the excitement has subsequently been detuned, and the suspension altered somewhat too, I felt.

Sometimes they do get it right first time and then eff it up later.

Rob C

Imps had a habit of frying the front passengers in a collision due to the fuel tank being over their legs.
The Coventry Climax was used in lots of vehicles, including some hydroplanes I would watch every Thursday night on Oulton Broad. :-)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: mikechen on November 24, 2013, 01:13:31 am
Amazon craziness. I don't like it: On the German amazon until a few days ago the DP3M sold for about EUR 800, then it suddenly dropped to EUR 730 (so I bought one), and later the same day it dropped to EUR 530, now it's up at 570.
...
Wow,  I just checked www.amazon.de and the DP3 Merrill is going for Euro 475 (for orders shipped to the U.S.) plus shipping for about Euro 17.  Taking the purchase all the way to the end, the total is Euro 493 for the Sigma DP3 Merrill and 5-10 business day shipping to the U.S., which comes to about US$667, as of November 23.

I'll have to have my German friend review this to make sure I'm not making any mistakes translating the site (you can also use Google Chrome which can do an auto translation of the page).

There is no VAT, since it is being shipped out of the EC. The posted price is Euro 566, but when I add it to the shopping basket for shipping to the U.S., the price drops to Eur 475, and then adds Eur 17 shipping.

I've had DVDs shipped to me from the UK, and there was a small shipping fee, but no additional duty, so i think this should be a final price of US$667, once converted.  I will use a Capital One credit card which doesn't charge a foreign conversion fee, and I plan to order in Euro.

Will  let you know what happens.

If anyone knows if there are any US import duty or taxes that apply, please post that info.  I haven't seen anything mentioned online yet.


-Mike


EDIT:  Note that this price is only for orders shipped to the US. This is what the order page looks like:


Bestellungsübersicht
Artikel:   EUR 475,56
Verpackung & Versand:   EUR 16,99
Gesamtbetrag:   EUR 492,55
Oben genannte Preise verstehen sich inklusive Mehrwertsteuer. Informationen anzeigen.


Lieferung voraussichtlich:  30. November 2013 - 6. Dezember 2013

Sigma Merrill DP3 Digitalkamera (46 Megapixel, 7,6 cm (3 Zoll) LCD-Display, SD-/SDXC-Kartenslot) schwarz
von Sigma
EUR 475,56
Nur noch 4 auf Lager (mehr ist unterwegs).
Anzahl: 1 Ändern Menge von Sigma Merrill DP3 Digitalkamera (46 Megapixel, 7,6 cm (3 Zoll) LCD-Display, SD-/SDXC-Kartenslot) schwarz aus 1
Verkauf durch: Amazon EU S.a.r.L.
Geschenkoptionen


The site below has discussion regarding the issue of duty when importing from Germany to the U.S.:

http://photo.net/leica-rangefinders-forum/00ZQX6

Attached is a screen capture of the order email from Amazon.de
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: ron ritcher on November 24, 2013, 01:26:18 am
RE: Sigma's Pricing Yo-Yo . . .

Interesting stuff about European pricing for the DP Merrills; noticed that B&H hasn't budged -- yet.  I have just listed a DP1M in the "For Sale" folder here at LuLa, but really had no idea a fair price to ask.  SO, if you notice the listing, and are at all interested, please shoot me an offer via PM.  Thanks!

Anyone want to guess what's up at Sigma?  Why Europe and not the U.S?  Seems strange for sure . . .

Ron
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: MrSmith27 on November 24, 2013, 07:24:54 pm
Some info on the amazon prices:

1) German prices always include all the taxes applicable in germany. so if it say 400 euros, that means you'll pay 400 euros.

2) If you export you may or may not have to pay additional taxes/duties.

3) The extreme price jumps seem to be caused by different vendors: First prices were really staying the same at about 800 or so euros. these were dp3s shipped by amazon directly. then amazon dropped the prices so people bought all the dp3s amazon had (which was less than 10). So amazon is out of stock, then they automatically switched to the next 3rd party seller in line and so on. Appears that those all only have a one, maybe two in stock, so as soon as they are sold out the next third party seller with the shortest shipping time becomes the official price etc.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: billh on November 29, 2013, 07:26:11 pm
B&H (and maybe others) is selling it for $699.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/909800-REG/sigma_sigma_dp3_merrill_compact.html
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: mikechen on November 30, 2013, 03:37:34 am
B&H (and maybe others) is selling it for $699.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/909800-REG/sigma_sigma_dp3_merrill_compact.html
The DP2 Merrill is $699 as well, though the DP1 Merrill is $799-discounted $200 from its original full price rather than its previous sale price.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on November 30, 2013, 05:48:07 am
Meanwhile :

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/1401352_10201086663876855_899390606_o.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: ErikKaffehr on November 30, 2013, 06:03:43 am
Hi,

A short and concise workflow :-)

Best regards
Erik

I've had the same question before so I looked a bit in possible workflows. This one here seems to work for me:

1. Take out Sigma DP3M.
2. Focus on eye under good lightning conditions.
3. Press shutter.
4. Done.





Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: NancyP on December 02, 2013, 02:30:39 pm
Any experiences with a filter system for DP#Ms?
 
The "small" holder options are Cokin A and P, Formatt Hitech 67mm and 85mm, Lee Seven-Five.
And then there's the standard 4"  (100mm) holders: Lee would be the obvious choice for durability. Is the full size Lee too awkward on the DP#Ms? If full size Lee system is usable on DP#M and can be slipped into a daypack, it would be the "one size fits everything except bulbous-front-element super-wide-angle lenses".

The Formatt Hitech 67mm system has a kit with adapter ring, holder, 0.6 GND, 0.6 ND, 0.6 reverse GND. This would seem to be an inexpensive introduction to filter systems at $140.00 plus $23.00 for a front adapter for a 77 mm polarizer (I have a 72 already, could use stepdown ring 77 to72). There is exactly one review of the system, and the reviewer hated the holder design.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Christoph C. Feldhaim on December 02, 2013, 02:42:22 pm
Meanwhile :

... image ...

Great shot - but why to people always have to make additional holes in their bodies?
Never understood that ....
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: kencameron on December 02, 2013, 03:28:43 pm
Great shot - but why to people always have to make additional holes in their bodies?
Never understood that ....
I used to agree with you, but after looking (more than once) at Hulyss's wonderful shot (has Lula ever hosted anything more intelligently erotic?), I think I might have been wrong...
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: K.C. on December 03, 2013, 03:37:35 am
Great shot - but why to people always have to make additional holes in their bodies?
Never understood that ....

For the same reason that some people have to list the gear they shoot with in their signature on a forum.
Never understood that...

Both are about some level of vanity, I'd guess.

To each his own.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Christoph C. Feldhaim on December 03, 2013, 06:19:30 am
For the same reason that some people have to list the gear they shoot with in their signature on a forum.
Never understood that...

Both are about some level of vanity, I'd guess.

To each his own.

I understand vanity to some extent, since it is part of normal human narcissism as well as demonstrated absence of vanity is. What I have trouble to understand is self mutilation or self injury for that purpose.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on December 03, 2013, 07:10:24 am
I'm actually studying body photography with the women who cross my life and this is not easy. I never done that before and this is clear you never know what you will discover. Sometimes, she look cute, shy, serious, but once you tell her to be full naked, you are surprised. Piercings are legion on the women I shoot, even thought I try my best to have a normal woman, without tattoos or piercings. I respect their choices and do not find that horrible, after all.

Eroticism is a complicated discussion among photographers, a sort of "world between". This often due because photographers who do not know at first how their emotions will react when shooting with the girls, and also because they don't know how other people will react when they see "this photographer shoot naked women !!". They care also about their reputation.

Personally, I was surprised by my reaction because ... I do not care; I just find that "unusual". When shooting (shoots are during between 4 and 6 hours) I do not have any once of excitation or anything. I think I have that in common with doctors I don't know. So to break the ice I tell the selected girls to be full naked once they cross my door. Some never did that before but understand quickly why. At first they are shy and when they see I do not care and I'm focused on work, they start to be far more comfy, laughing, trying to see what I want to do and are very participative. They trust me a lot.

I have a goal and no matter how much girl come in the studio, this goal is hard to achieve.

I use the DP3 only when I use LED. I found that Foveon react better than the D800 to led lights, especially in transitions between light and shadows.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: NancyP on December 03, 2013, 09:59:44 am
OFF TOPIC:
Ear piercing is very quick, being performed with a modified staple gun loaded with the starter earring stud, and feels like a quick pinch. The ear lobes are mildly tender to touch for about 6 weeks until the hole is healed. It is not too different from having a shallow scratch - not noticeable except when doing the obligatory twice-a-day washing of the lobes. After the six weeks are up, the lobes are completely normal. Other sites may be more problematic.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rob C on December 03, 2013, 11:36:34 am
OFF TOPIC:
Ear piercing is very quick, being performed with a modified staple gun loaded with the starter earring stud, and feels like a quick pinch. The ear lobes are mildly tender to touch for about 6 weeks until the hole is healed. It is not too different from having a shallow scratch - not noticeable except when doing the obligatory twice-a-day washing of the lobes. After the six weeks are up, the lobes are completely normal. Other sites may be more problematic.


Why would you do that?

Rob C
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: NancyP on December 03, 2013, 12:40:54 pm
Hey, I like wearing earrings and other jewelry. Clip-on earrings are incredibly uncomfortable for any long period of time, whereas the pierced-ear earrings are perfectly comfortable and unnoticeable by the wearer.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Christoph C. Feldhaim on December 03, 2013, 12:45:16 pm
Hey, I like wearing earrings and other jewelry. Clip-on earrings are incredibly uncomfortable for any long period of time, whereas the pierced-ear earrings are perfectly comfortable and unnoticeable by the wearer.

Earrings are an exception.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: NancyP on December 03, 2013, 02:00:05 pm
Back on topic.
I want to use graduated ND filters on my DP#Ms.
Is the standard 100mm/ 4" holder "too big" to fit on the camera when attached to a tripod?
Do people hold up bare filters? Use small holders?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rob C on December 03, 2013, 02:07:26 pm
Back on topic.
I want to use graduated ND filters on my DP#Ms.
Is the standard 100mm/ 4" holder "too big" to fit on the camera when attached to a tripod?
Do people hold up bare filters? Use small holders?


Certainly nothing clip-on!

;-)

Rob C
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Rand47 on December 03, 2013, 06:11:53 pm
Back on topic.
I want to use graduated ND filters on my DP#Ms.
Is the standard 100mm/ 4" holder "too big" to fit on the camera when attached to a tripod?
Do people hold up bare filters? Use small holders?

Nancy,

I use a standard 100mm Lee holder and filters w/ my DP Merrils just fine.  I bought a 52mm adapter ring & a 52-49mm step-down ring so that I can use this with both the DP3 (52mm) and the DP1 & 2 at 49mm.  I use it with a RRS L-Plate on the cameras that has the auxiliary grip as well!  No clearance issues when used with my RRS BH-55 ball head and clamp.  I do, however, get some really strange looks using this set-up in the field!   ;D  I already had the Lee gear for use with my a900 FF and lenses and didn't see any reason to duplicate the filter gear in a smaller form factor.

Here are some quick (and lousy) iPhone photos, I just this moment shot, to illustrate.  This is w/ DP2M.  The DP3M has even more clearance due to longer physical lens length.

(http://rsadams.smugmug.com/photos/i-RhQvxr7/0/L/i-RhQvxr7-L.jpg)

(http://rsadams.smugmug.com/photos/i-Sw9b6fM/1/L/i-Sw9b6fM-L.jpg)

(http://rsadams.smugmug.com/photos/i-5Hgm5XH/0/L/i-5Hgm5XH-L.jpg)

(http://rsadams.smugmug.com/photos/i-Dh4DCbn/0/L/i-Dh4DCbn-L.jpg)

I just wish Sigma had put a "bulb" mode in these cameras for use with my 10 stop ND filter!  30 seconds just isn't enough to capture that ethereal truly long exposure look.  

Rand
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: billh on December 03, 2013, 06:31:13 pm

Why would you do that?

Rob C


I can remember, almost 50 years ago now, having blood taken from my ear lobe in a hematology class. It happened only once because it hurt like crazy. Arms were immediately the source of choice for everyone.

I’m in the “simply cannot imagine having anything” pierced crowd. The worst case I’ve heard of was conveyed by a family doc buddy. A male with a bolt through the very last place most of us would chose as a location.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: NancyP on December 03, 2013, 07:36:32 pm
Thanks, Rand47. My ball head is the Arca-Swiss p0, definitely smaller than the RRS BH55 head. There will be plenty of clearance. I will go for the 100mm system, because it can be used on the few lenses I have with filter diameter greater than 72mm. Cheaper to buy one system and make it comprehensive over time, than to end up buying 2 systems.

In my search for reviews of the Lee seven-5 system, I ran across this "life stages of a photographer" graph - hilarious
http://www.shuttercount.co.uk/hardware/graduated-filters-the-lee-seven5-system/

As for the guy with the piercing in his tool, yes, it is rare, but less rare than one would think. Yikes!
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: pdp11 on December 05, 2013, 03:51:22 pm
I'm using an origina cokin A filter holder (and chinese copy of cokin P filter holder for B/Y varicolor) on two differents heads (manfrotto 141rc and 496rc2) without any problem.

PDP



Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: pdp11 on December 05, 2013, 04:17:24 pm
Hi
This is the first time I write in this forum.

I had bought a dp1m after reading info on this forum, and an dp3m has follow.
I'm very satisfied of those cameras, but sometimes I have some color consistecy problems:
sometimes blue has cyan or magenta cast. (easy to recover in photoshop)
sometimes deep yellow becomes red. (very difficult to recover in photoshop)

Do you have the same problem? Do you have a solution?

Beyond this I love those cameras for images fully of color detail and sharpness.

Best regards,

PDP






Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Misirlou on December 05, 2013, 07:10:48 pm

I'm very satisfied of those cameras, but sometimes I have some color consistecy problems:
sometimes blue has cyan or magenta cast. (easy to recover in photoshop)
sometimes deep yellow becomes red. (very difficult to recover in photoshop)

Do you have the same problem? Do you have a solution?

Beyond this I love those cameras for images fully of color detail and sharpness.


I've seen that too with my DP2M (only had it for a few weeks now). I've tried setting a custom white balance, and that still doesn't fix the problem. It may be something that has to be fixed post shooting. A quirk of the Foveon sensor perhaps.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: abeofRD on December 21, 2013, 08:59:01 pm

Quote
I use the DP3 only when I use LED. I found that Foveon react better than the D800 to led lights, especially in transitions between light and shadows.

Hi Hulyss,

I am curious of what LED you use for studio work with your DP3, I would like to use my DP3 in studio setup, for product and fineart photography not portraiture or fashion.

Thank you
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on December 23, 2013, 03:51:30 pm
Hi Hulyss,

I am curious of what LED you use for studio work with your DP3, I would like to use my DP3 in studio setup, for product and fineart photography not portraiture or fashion.

Thank you

Hello abeofrD,

For a long time, before LeD was common and commercialised everywhere, I was very interested by this technology. To have a powerful spot, you add to build it yourself so by this time Luxeon was independent and not bought by Philips. So I needed to buy the chip oversea with the drivers and the coolers in Italy. Expensive stuff at the end but a very scientific approach of the wavelength. It need a lot of handwork.

Today the market is blooming, it is far more easy to have very good spots so I went to a show in Paris and measured my needs. I ended up ordering 3 pro spots, with 3W high power led and support for frosts (very important for light diffusion). They are equiped with a very good led, the ProLight PG1C-3Lxx-SD : http://www.ledmar.com/pdf/3W_PG1C-3Lxx-SD_v3.2.pdf  (http://www.ledmar.com/pdf/3W_PG1C-3Lxx-SD_v3.2.pdf)

It give me the white and the stability I need. Unfortunately my spots are hard to find today but they work very good in studio, with modellers and for pack shoot, as well.



 
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 05, 2014, 11:04:32 am
Happy foveon new year guys :)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/1501484_600909456628755_486799147_o.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 08, 2014, 06:50:54 am
You are my every thing !! DP3m @ 1000 ISO

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/tempo/tempomodels/LSisters/L1-7.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: slowframe on January 11, 2014, 03:34:08 pm
A few succulents to remind us of warmer days:

(http://mostlynorthphotos.smugmug.com/Temporary-Gallery/i-2ZdjC27/0/XL/Succulent%204%20P%20DP3M-XL.jpg)

(http://mostlynorthphotos.smugmug.com/Temporary-Gallery/i-fX3PrvQ/0/XL/Succulent%202%20DP3M-XL.jpg)

(http://mostlynorthphotos.smugmug.com/Temporary-Gallery/i-mDK3vbP/0/XL/Succulent%203%20DP3M-XL.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: pdp11 on January 12, 2014, 05:41:35 pm
A small surprise:
In September I took a walk with the dp1m & dp3m, and I obviously took some shot.
I found a frog on a dark wall, iso 800, 1/60s and I take some shot, nothing of interesting.
I looked jpgs only and found them too noisy and washed. (thank to sigma photo pro speed)
I did some tests at 800-1600 only with fluorescent light, and those photo are useless.
This evening I opened raw files, I found decent: color are not vivid as at low iso but still decent, noise is not annoying, detail is terrific as usual.
I'm quite surprised that dp3m is decent at 800iso in daylight.


Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: rvamos on January 15, 2014, 10:56:20 am
Can the DPxM cameras be connected to an iPad or iPad mini so that you can have a larger screen with which to compose a photograph?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on January 15, 2014, 04:37:50 pm
My brother tried to connect it to a computer, it didn't work. However if someone managed to do that, I'm also interested.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 15, 2014, 06:47:03 pm
Can the DPxM cameras be connected to an iPad or iPad mini so that you can have a larger screen with which to compose a photograph?

It is absolutely impossible. It is hardware restriction. But it might change in the next DP generation ;)

SIGMA SP specifications: Code name "Brickma"

- New Merrill+ "dragon" Foveon sensor , ISO range 100-6400 (pushed 50-8000). 18Mp x 3 = 54 Mp.

- 1000 ISO shoots as clean as 100 ISO shoots.

- New processor TRUE III engine for faster processing and video.

- Video H264 - 30fps / 60fps

- Batteries life up to 600 frames.

- First grade aluminium body and magnesium chassis.

- Extensively weather-sealed, all joins and ports featuring protective lips and bungs.

- 3" TFT LCD monitor with brightness/color adjustment and AR coating - 921,000 dots.

- Double SDXC card slot.

- New 3Focus feature : AF, MF by the lens or MF by a custom wheel on the back (à la DP2s). Continuous Focus for video and sport action.

- Customisable back wheel.

- Swappable IR filter.

- Electronic level.

- Wifi remote control + tethering options (remote not included).

- Electronic finder - orientable 2.4m dot OLED display pluggable on the hotshoe (not included).

- AF assist lamp.

- No curtain, no mirror, no mechanical pieces for an extra long life.


SIGMA SX lens line specifications:

- The world first Leaf shutter compact lenses.

- For now, 3 lenses available - 19mm f2.8 - 35mm f1.4 and 50mm f1.2

- Electronic leaf shutter 30 sec to 1/8000 + bulb mode possible.

- First grade aluminium.

- Extensively weather-sealed


(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/tempo/tempopro/SIGMA/BrickMa.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Misirlou on January 15, 2014, 09:14:45 pm
It is absolutely impossible. It is hardware restriction. But it might change in the next DP generation ;)

SIGMA SP specifications: Code name "Brickma"

- New Merrill+ "dragon" Foveon sensor , ISO range 100-6400 (pushed 50-8000). 18Mp x 3 = 54 Mp.

- 1000 ISO shoots as clean as 100 ISO shoots.

- New processor TRUE III engine for faster processing and video.

- Video H264 - 30fps / 60fps

- Batteries life up to 600 frames.

- First grade aluminium body and magnesium chassis.

- Extensively weather-sealed, all joins and ports featuring protective lips and bungs.

- 3" TFT LCD monitor with brightness/color adjustment and AR coating - 921,000 dots.

- Double SDXC card slot.

- New 3Focus feature : AF, MF by the lens or MF by a custom wheel on the back (à la DP2s). Continuous Focus for video and sport action.

- Customisable back wheel.

- Swappable IR filter.

- Electronic level.

- Wifi remote control + tethering options (remote not included).

- Electronic finder - orientable 2.4m dot OLED display pluggable on the hotshoe (not included).

- AF assist lamp.

- No curtain, no mirror, no mechanical pieces for an extra long life.


SIGMA SX lens line specifications:

- The world first Leaf shutter compact lenses.

- For now, 3 lenses available - 19mm f2.8 - 35mm f1.4 and 50mm f1.2

- Electronic leaf shutter 30 sec to 1/8000 + bulb mode possible.

- First grade aluminium.

- Extensively weather-sealed


(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/tempo/tempopro/SIGMA/BrickMa.jpg)

What sort of cruel tease is this? Hoax, speculation, or maybe even real?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 16, 2014, 03:03:52 am
This is unreal and out of my cruel mind  ;D
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on January 16, 2014, 06:28:42 am
I almost did it in my pants, you are so mean!  ;D
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: capital on January 17, 2014, 03:53:36 am
Well speaking of realized Foveon technology, the x530 a 4.5 MP 1/1.8" size X3 Direct Image Sensor.

(http://www.imaging-resource.com/NPICS1/POLAROID_X530_1_L.JPG) (http://www.imaging-resource.com/EVENTS/PMAS04/1076352149.html)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 17, 2014, 04:41:01 am
DP3m by the X530 ;)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/1052576_10201351578259549_1074782312_o.jpg)

And the X530 by the DP3m

(https://scontent-a-cdg.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/1533916_10201351580939616_835115031_n.jpg)

I use my X530 for ID card and passport work.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: uvl on January 17, 2014, 02:16:18 pm
It is absolutely impossible. It is hardware restriction. But it might change in the next DP generation ;)

SIGMA SP specifications: Code name "Brickma"

- New Merrill+ "dragon" Foveon sensor , ISO range 100-6400 (pushed 50-8000). 18Mp x 3 = 54 Mp.

- 1000 ISO shoots as clean as 100 ISO shoots.

- New processor TRUE III engine for faster processing and video.

- Video H264 - 30fps / 60fps

- Batteries life up to 600 frames.

- First grade aluminium body and magnesium chassis.

- Extensively weather-sealed, all joins and ports featuring protective lips and bungs.

- 3" TFT LCD monitor with brightness/color adjustment and AR coating - 921,000 dots.

- Double SDXC card slot.

- New 3Focus feature : AF, MF by the lens or MF by a custom wheel on the back (à la DP2s). Continuous Focus for video and sport action.

- Customisable back wheel.

- Swappable IR filter.

- Electronic level.

- Wifi remote control + tethering options (remote not included).

- Electronic finder - orientable 2.4m dot OLED display pluggable on the hotshoe (not included).

- AF assist lamp.

- No curtain, no mirror, no mechanical pieces for an extra long life.


SIGMA SX lens line specifications:

- The world first Leaf shutter compact lenses.

- For now, 3 lenses available - 19mm f2.8 - 35mm f1.4 and 50mm f1.2

- Electronic leaf shutter 30 sec to 1/8000 + bulb mode possible.

- First grade aluminium.

- Extensively weather-sealed


There are rumors for this camera to have an Arca-Swiss compatible rail on two sides.
Uwe ;-)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 17, 2014, 04:05:27 pm
There are rumors for this camera to have an Arca-Swiss compatible rail on two sides.
Uwe ;-)

Only one side :) The other is for all the external connectors.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: foveonconvert on January 17, 2014, 04:27:25 pm
Hulyss,

You are my idol.  I got the camera about 2 months ago after looking at your photographs with it.

(https://scontent-a-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/t1/1484748_10153663409915503_97616808_n.jpg)

Greetings from Canada =)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 17, 2014, 04:40:16 pm
I should be the idol of no one as I have many things to learn ;) But this is gentle :D

Your photo is beautiful :)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: slowframe on January 18, 2014, 01:52:29 pm
Nice picture!

I haven't been doing much landscape/cityscape shooting recently, but I did brave the cold to take a panorama.

(http://mostlynorthphotos.smugmug.com/Temporary-Gallery/i-X4mWR38/1/X3/Revised%20montreal%20night%20double%20panorama-X3.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 21, 2014, 03:44:12 pm
Brave the cold more often Slowframe ;)

Girl and technology -

(https://scontent-b-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t31/1617946_10201375352613893_222183920_o.jpg)

Girl without technology -

(https://scontent-b-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/1496519_10201375419575567_101850723_o.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on January 31, 2014, 08:55:26 am
Out, on field

(https://scontent-a-cdg.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc3/t31/1780087_10201431568419253_1937671006_o.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on February 04, 2014, 02:45:35 pm
More BW:

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0724.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: MrSmith on February 06, 2014, 06:02:57 pm
Ordered mine yesterday. for £290 (ex-vat) it's rude not to.
but it's not shipping till next week, annoying when it says 'in-stock' when it obviously isn't.
I'm looking forward to seeing what this sensor/lens combo is capable of.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on February 07, 2014, 06:40:33 am
Ordered mine yesterday. for £290 (ex-vat) it's rude not to.
but it's not shipping till next week, annoying when it says 'in-stock' when it obviously isn't.
I'm looking forward to seeing what this sensor/lens combo is capable of.

Welcome aboard Mr Smith :) You will like playing with it !

(https://scontent-a-cdg.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/t1/1185386_600906149962419_776240116_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: MrSmith on February 07, 2014, 07:02:08 am
shipped today! ;D not here for the weekend  :-[
batteries are here, they are Ricoh DB65 which are the same as the sigma ones but cheaper.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/300822649659?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Robert DeCandido PhD on February 07, 2014, 11:22:55 am
amazon.com has the Sigma DP123 for about $570 with shipping - from Japan...prices are dropping so it might be worth to wait another week or two to see where the price will level out (how low will it go?)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: NancyP on February 07, 2014, 11:35:13 am
I have the Merrills already, so this is a general question.

When you buy a new photography-related item from outside the USA through an Amazon dealer or eBay individual, don't you have to pay duties on it? How does this work? Do you need to import through a middleman who deals with customs directly? Can an individual deal with customs directly? Does the item languish in customs for months before they get around to releasing it?

I looked into this a little bit when I was considering a RMS-mount bellows lens from India, and it all seemed rather confusing.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Robert DeCandido PhD on February 07, 2014, 12:13:37 pm
this is a good question for FM forums...and as I remember, photo stuff does not incur import taxes into the USA...but it is worth investigating for lenses vs. camera bodies. For example, many people in the USA are purchasing the Canon supertelephotos from Canada - because they are being sold for far less than here in the USA...(warranty is same: Canon North America) - however, for the big lenses and the way they need to be shipped, one needs to pay brokerage fees (about $200 as I recall) - but still much cheaper than buying anywhere in the USA...for smaller cameras and lenses, the seller just sends via post office in his/her home country...anyway FM Forums - this topic is discussed fairly frequently
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Deadhumpy on February 07, 2014, 01:55:46 pm
I just bought a dp3m off ebay from Japan. Hopefully it won't take to long to ship. Here's a pano of my town from a rented dp3m this fall. It's a huge file and web size doesn't do it justice.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: MrSmith on February 08, 2014, 04:47:07 am
so camera turned up early (but i stupidly left sd cards in studio) and after having a play why is there no live histogram in manual mode?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: MrSmith on February 08, 2014, 01:10:20 pm
wandered up the road to buy an overpriced sd card and took some snaps on the way back.

full frame and corner 100% crop
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on February 09, 2014, 03:53:47 pm
Just a tip here: there's no point in buying a superfast SD card, the processing is so long that the camera can't write files quickly enough. A 45 MB/s card is plenty. And writing is as fast as a 90 MB/s card, which cots twice as much.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: MrSmith on February 09, 2014, 04:12:38 pm
I did wonder but then i can always use it in my other cameras, ended up with a relatively cheap 32gb toshiba 30mb class 10 for less than £20
Had a further play today and have the AF/MF thing all sorted now and use the center button for magnified view not a half shutter press and instinctively switch between AF/MF using the focus button.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on February 09, 2014, 04:14:30 pm
I forgot you could have other cameras than a Merrill  ;D ::)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: em13 on February 22, 2014, 02:01:39 am
Any thoughts on using the Dp3m handheld?  Is there a lot of cammera shake even in good light or is using a tripod necessary?  Currently debating between the 2/3m.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on February 22, 2014, 05:57:38 am
I've never used a tripod personally... I've had a few shots with camera shake though, but that's because I was too stubborn to shoot at higher ISO than 100. A little bit of noise is better than camera shake.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: XE11 on February 26, 2014, 08:10:54 am
Hi people,

DP3m is now around £300, and it's really tempting.

any of you have experience with fuji S3 or S5 from years ago ? the skin tone is amazing on those machines.

i bought an XE1 some time ago and i quite like it, but the skin tone just wasnt as good as the S3/5. how does DP3M compared ?  ;D thanks
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: MrSmith on March 03, 2014, 07:24:36 am
a pano stitch,  a full frame shot plus 100% crop. really like using this camera and getting a hang of what it can do.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Robert DeCandido PhD on March 03, 2014, 10:12:52 am
Orchids at the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx, NYC - 28 Feb 2014.

Shot with the DP Merrill 3 and a Nikon 3T close up filter

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on March 23, 2014, 04:40:57 pm
Growing up... first birthday party:

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M0763.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: NancyP on April 23, 2014, 01:43:40 pm
Tripods are helpful, but if light is good, you may be able to get along without one. The good part about the DP#Ms is that you don't need much of a tripod to support 8 ounces of camera.
Title: Sigma DP3 Merrill BP-41 Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery
Post by: abeofRD on May 05, 2014, 07:15:15 pm
Hello,

I would like to know if anyone has any experience with Watson IA-BH125C / DB-65 / BP-41 / D-Li106 Lithium-Ion Battery Pack (3.7V, 1000mAh)
Link to B&H
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/835961-REG/watson_b_3903_ia_bh125c_battery_pack_f_samsung.html (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/835961-REG/watson_b_3903_ia_bh125c_battery_pack_f_samsung.html) replacements for the Merrill's, one review says its the same as the manufacturers but more then half the price.

Thank you
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill BP-41 Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery
Post by: abeofRD on May 21, 2014, 10:10:01 am
Hello,

I would like to know if anyone has any experience with Watson IA-BH125C / DB-65 / BP-41 / D-Li106 Lithium-Ion Battery Pack (3.7V, 1000mAh)
Link to B&H
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/835961-REG/watson_b_3903_ia_bh125c_battery_pack_f_samsung.html (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/835961-REG/watson_b_3903_ia_bh125c_battery_pack_f_samsung.html) replacements for the Merrill's, one review says its the same as the manufacturers but more then half the price.

Thank you


"UPDATE"

I am happy to report that I did buy the Watson Battery, it works perfectly fine it lasts and charges as the OEM.
Title: Sigma DP3 Merrill Filters
Post by: abeofRD on May 21, 2014, 10:53:19 am
Hello,

Can anyone suggests a filter system that works with the DP3, mainly used for landscape.

It can get confusing with so much options, I need a polarize and ND filter.

Thank you all 
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: NancyP on May 21, 2014, 12:15:30 pm
I just use a standard 52mm CPL for casual off-tripod use. You can use standard square/rectangular filter holders with a 52mm adapter.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Ligament on July 02, 2014, 02:18:09 am
Jasper National Park, Alberta, CA

This camera must come from a parallel universe. The machinery is crazy, software unbelievably horrible and unique, but images can be out of this world.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: abeofRD on July 03, 2014, 08:52:45 am
Jasper National Park, Alberta, CA

This camera must come from a parallel universe. The machinery is crazy, software unbelievably horrible and unique, but images can be out of this world.

The SPP 6 on a PC Win7 works very good with the DPM3 at least I use it and I haven't encountered any problem so far.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on July 12, 2014, 07:12:21 pm
Hello,

A little story about Fijigma - http://www.dpreview.com/forums/thread/3698836

A the photo of a bud.

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/Savings/Bud.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on July 14, 2014, 09:23:46 am
Hyluss, what's the flash you're using? the one on the Fujigma  ;D ?

EDIT: got it, actually, Fuji EF X20 am I right?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on July 14, 2014, 12:58:11 pm
Hyluss, what's the flash you're using? the one on the Fujigma  ;D ?

EDIT: got it, actually, Fuji EF X20 am I right?

Hey ! Yes it is the Fuji EF X20. It is all metallic, a bit slow to charge (depend of what power you need) and transform the DP3m in a weapon ;)

You might have noticed that the DP3 (if we use correctly the focus functions) hook pretty good in low light. Now it hook in low light and in + is able to provide pictures :)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on July 14, 2014, 01:19:34 pm
What do you mean by "using correctly the focus functions"?

Just got my DP1M today, BTW  ;D
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on July 14, 2014, 01:33:45 pm
What do you mean by "using correctly the focus functions"?

Just got my DP1M today, BTW  ;D

The focus limiter. The Custom focus function ;)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on July 14, 2014, 02:41:04 pm
Right, but this works with all Merrills I reckon? I was thinking of getting a flash, I'll check the Fuji out then.

BTW Hulyss, do you have an example of a shot taken with DP3M + flash?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on July 14, 2014, 06:20:51 pm
Right, but this works with all Merrills I reckon? I was thinking of getting a flash, I'll check the Fuji out then.

BTW Hulyss, do you have an example of a shot taken with DP3M + flash?

Not with me now but I'll post tomorow some :)

Today it is

Green Explosion !

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/Savings/Green%20Explosion.jpg)

Right click to see in big

And the little guy who did it :

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/Savings/fujigma1.jpg)

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/Savings/fujigma2.jpg)

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/Savings/fujigma3.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on July 15, 2014, 03:34:12 pm
Fujigma VS Mogu :

At 800 ASA

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/Savings/Mogu.jpg)

Right click to see in big
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on July 18, 2014, 11:20:28 am
Fiujigma VS Darkness -  闇に対するフジヤマ

Tonight I will use the flash but I have some things to sort to make it work propelly.

The first shoot is to show noise and how are exposed the trees. The second is to show shadows, noise and color reading in the dark on a 30sec exposure. Nothing touched in SPP just exported to PS to fix some colors. The only vivble thing on screen was the white flower, for the focus.

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/Savings/LE1.jpg)
right click to see in big.

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/Savings/LE2.jpg)
right click to see in big.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on July 18, 2014, 07:52:02 pm
No flash for tonight but a landscape from yesterday. We were on this location together, Mr palpman ;)

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/Savings/Atom.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on July 24, 2014, 12:11:18 pm
Two shoots at 33Mp. No adjustments :

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/Savings/Flo.jpg)

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/Savings/Cat.jpg)

@ Palpman : Need to finish some fixings for the flash. I'm close to TTL support.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on July 24, 2014, 01:47:58 pm
I'm still not sure if I want a flash for the DP3M. I'm considering buying an SD1 and then I could borrow my brother's cobra if needed. BTW have you tried the SD1? It is available for less than 1000 euros now and I have to say, it's very tempting...
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on July 24, 2014, 02:29:06 pm
I'm still not sure if I want a flash for the DP3M. I'm considering buying an SD1 and then I could borrow my brother's cobra if needed. BTW have you tried the SD1? It is available for less than 1000 euros now and I have to say, it's very tempting...

Yes I owned it for a year. By this time, I owned some good lenses 50f1.4 - 85f1.4 - 150 macro... but was not impressed at all compared to the little DP.
With the new art lenses, it is far better, on par with the DP merrill.

But, if I were you, I would wait till photokina. The new SD, if he is announced this year, might be better (I hope).



Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on July 24, 2014, 02:57:01 pm
Well, if the new SD features a Quattro sensor, I'm not sure it'll be worth it. We can still pray for a FF foveon... I'd put a lot of money on the table for that.

EDIT: these shots, taken with an SD1M + 35mm ART, are just stunning: http://fotogenerellinternational.wordpress.com/2014/03/09/review-sigma-35mm-f1-4-art/
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on July 24, 2014, 03:35:26 pm
The SD1m is a banding machine, really. It need a lot of PP to render it good. The DP3m is far better at all levels for this focal.
The SD1m do not have any kind of live view. You might think "...ok" but no. A DLSR, especially a foveon DSLR, need live view.

The next SD might have it. If not, it will be just ridiculous.

So if the next SD come the last, after the DP3Q, it might be a very good Quattro gear.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Alan Smallbone on August 15, 2014, 04:44:03 pm
Well I am new to the DP3M, I like the details from the images when they are shot with care, but one feature in particular I could not believe it behaves the way it does. When in Manual mode, the on screen histogram goes away and there is no way to enable it! The histogram will be there in any mode but M. Shocking that they did not allow the histogram in M. I know it has quirks but this is almost unforgivable, especially for a camera that was only released in early 2013.

Alan
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: eronald on August 15, 2014, 05:18:32 pm
Well I am new to the DP3M, I like the details from the images when they are shot with care, but one feature in particular I could not believe it behaves the way it does. When in Manual mode, the on screen histogram goes away and there is no way to enable it! The histogram will be there in any mode but M. Shocking that they did not allow the histogram in M. I know it has quirks but this is almost unforgivable, especially for a camera that was only released in early 2013.

Alan


It's a good remark. I guess if the Quattro has the same issue, if you complain now they'll fix the firmware. The Merrills are probably frozen.

Edmund
Title: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: thermalanomaly on August 20, 2014, 08:01:54 pm
@ Hulyss #409 is a phenomenal image. And in my line of work I see many. This is incredible.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: furtle on September 22, 2014, 01:45:41 pm
Bee on a Cosmos flower.   Very hard to get the focus and even this is not right. 

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: pdp11 on September 26, 2014, 06:29:34 pm
some colors of this early autumn,
Still in love love merrills, still hate spp
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on October 18, 2014, 04:02:37 pm
OOC JPG, no processing at all:

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/DP3-LL/DP3M1272.jpg)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: joezl on October 19, 2014, 06:17:09 pm
I'm tempted to purchase a DP3m from Japan but I'm concerned about converting the firmware from Japanese to English. Has anyone done this? Is it an easy process?
Thanks.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Chrisso26 on October 19, 2014, 07:47:19 pm
Also, Merrill vs Quattro?
I know the DP3 Quattro isn't available yet, but based on DP2M vs DP2 Quattro?
I've read a few threads around the web, but debate often heads down a tangental rabbit hole.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: The Ute on October 19, 2014, 09:39:16 pm
Piece of cake.

Just go into the menu system and change the language to English.

I had no problem w it.

:)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: joezl on October 20, 2014, 06:30:53 pm
Thanks Ute. That's encouraging.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Mark Muse on October 27, 2014, 02:00:09 pm
A while ago (months) I saw something about the "need" to use UV filters with the DPxMs. I have looked since and can't find that comment or a reference to it. Can anyone shed light on this? Is there a visual impact on produced images resulting from using a UV filter on these cameras?

I am having a bit of a problem with color cast variation across the frame (magenta on the left, neutral in the center and red on the right) on my DP3M. Any chance this is the problem solved by adding a UV filter? If not, is anyone else having this issue?
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Alan Smallbone on October 27, 2014, 05:08:34 pm
I have not seen any color casts with my DP3M, but maybe I have not noticed it. I too saw the post you are referring to, it was by Hulyss, and I sent him a message and he never responded. I have not heard it was needed by anyone else. I guess it would be an easy enough test, just try one. If you find it does be interesting to see the results.

Thanks,
Alan
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Chrisso26 on October 27, 2014, 05:24:14 pm
My two (new to me) Merrill's both have UV filters, just to protect the lens more than anything.
haven't noticed any colourcast, but as above, I may not have looked closely enough.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on October 28, 2014, 04:50:57 am
Color cast show when sensor is ageing. My Dp3m start to show color cast but after 30k shoots.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Slobodan Blagojevic on October 28, 2014, 12:11:08 pm
Color cast show when sensor is aging...

What, they've been using Espon paper from 15 years ago as sensor!? ;D
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: K.C. on October 30, 2014, 11:56:29 pm
Color cast show when sensor is ageing. My Dp3m start to show color cast but after 30k shoots.


Color casts, random or repeatable, have been a trait of the Foveon sensor in every camera Sigma has built. The Quattros are no execption.

I seriously doubt they're just now showing up in your DP3. Mine's had better color than my DP1/2 but has thrown some odd casts on a few images since it was new.

As to the OP's question, early on in some forum discussions there were users of the DP2M who felt the UV filter helped limit the magenta casts. I've never found that to be true but with such a high quality lens I felt it worth it to put a very good UV filter on it.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: XE11 on October 31, 2014, 05:52:31 am
i start to suspect it;s sigma's glass. i had a 30mm F1.4 back in 2007, few years on, it's so yellow it's almost like having a mild yellow filter on at all time...  :o
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Mark Muse on October 31, 2014, 01:25:27 pm
I am not talking about a uniform color cast, as in white balance, but a lack of uniformity from left to right across the frame. My DP3m has had this problem from new out of the box.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Chrisso26 on November 01, 2014, 05:28:50 pm
i start to suspect it;s sigma's glass.

I have the Sigma 18-35 (Nikon mount) and it's superb. No colour cast.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: XE11 on November 02, 2014, 07:42:36 am
I have the Sigma 18-35 (Nikon mount) and it's superb. No colour cast.
is that new 18-35mm? i was referring to glass aging over time.  :)
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Chrisso26 on November 02, 2014, 04:02:30 pm
Yes, it's a year old.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: NancyP on November 02, 2014, 06:08:45 pm
Glass aging yellow over time: that is due to either 1. cement between elements aging over time or 2. radioactive components in glass aging the actual glass
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: K.C. on November 03, 2014, 07:15:30 pm
Glass aging yellow over time: that is due to either 1. cement between elements aging over time or 2. radioactive components in glass aging the actual glass

Nah, if this was typical we'd have read multiple posts about the issue and those aging issues take a longer time.

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: K.C. on November 03, 2014, 07:16:29 pm
I am not talking about a uniform color cast, as in white balance, but a lack of uniformity from left to right across the frame. My DP3m has had this problem from new out of the box.

Exactly my point. The DP2/3Ms have had many reports of this issue. Not all of them, but more than a few.
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Alan Smallbone on November 04, 2014, 10:02:00 am
I wonder if it is a problem with the lens coatings. I have not noticed it on my DP3M.

Alan
Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: palpman on November 16, 2014, 05:25:41 am
Some pics from my Icelandic trip in October (right-click -> view image for larger size):

(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/images/Iceland 2014-88.jpg)


(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/images/Iceland 2014-93.jpg)


(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/images/Iceland 2014-95.jpg)


(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/images/Iceland 2014-102.jpg)


(http://www.mkuhlmann.net/images/Iceland 2014-105.jpg)

Title: Re: Sigma DP3 Merrill Experiences
Post by: Hulyss on April 14, 2016, 07:56:46 am
Wolfy -

(http://www.hulyssbowman.com/Savings/Wolfi.jpg)