The Sigma SD15 14 Megapixel SLR Digital Camera (Body Only) incorporates a "TRUE II" image processing engine that provides high resolution power and reproduces HD images rich in gradation & 3D detail. The SD15 uses the innovative Foveon X3 direct-image-sensor that is capable of detecting red, green and blue light at every single pixel and works like photographic film.
There's absolutely no loss or distortion of the optical data which is transformed into a faithful image, with no omissions. The SD15 Digital SLR camera features JPEG & RAW file formats, a large and bright Pentaprism viewfinder with 98% coverage, a built-in pop-up flash with a Guide Number of 11, a 5-point AF system, and a large 3.0" LCD monitor as well as a user friendly design. It also features a 77-segment AE sensor which provides for superior exposure accuracy. The SD15 incorporates a dual motor anti-camera shake system and ISO sensitivity up to 3200 (in Extended mode) to help deliver clear, sharp images even under difficult lighting conditions.
The SD15 can capture up to 21 continuous frames in RAW mode and with the supplied BP-21 Lithium-ion battery, it is possible to shoot approximately 500 images on one full charge. Its durable shutter mechanism has a lifespan of over 100,000 cycles, and is ideal for the demands of professional digital photography. Plus, the SD15 comes equipped with Sigma's proprietary Photo Pro 4.0 software that converts all raw data quickly and easily.
Foveon X3 Full Color Image Sensor
The Foveon X3 direct image sensor can capture all primary RGB colors at each and every pixel arranged in three layers, insuring the capture of full and complete color. Using three silicon-embedded layers of pixel sensors, stacked to take advantage of silicon's ability to absorb red, green, and blue light at different respective depths, it efficiently reproduces color more accurately, and offers sharper resolution, pixel for pixel, than any conventional image sensor.
77-Segment AE Sensor
The SD15 features a new 77-segment AE sensor which allows advanced AE algorithms, improving exposure accuracy. Exact control and collaboration with the AF point ensures the camera exposes accurately even in difficult lighting conditions.
True II Image Processing Engine
The SD15 incorporates the "TRUE (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine) II" image processing engine which improves the processing speed and overall image quality. The unique image processing algorithm provides high resolution power and reproduces high definition images with richly graduated tones.
AFE (Analog Front End)
AFE (Analog Front End) converts the color data, which full-color capture systems record, to a digital signal. This enables the camera to reproduce high definition and richly colored images.
Continuous Shooting
The dedicated BP-21 Lithium-ion battery is supplied as standard with the SD15. It is possible to shoot approximately 500 images on one full charge. The battery takes about 120 minutes to fully charge with the supplied BC-21 Battery Charger. The optional AC Adapter SAC-4 enables the Sigma SD15 to obtain power from the main supply. The high-capacity battery allows photographers to benefit from the SD15's capability for continuous shooting; up to 21 images in RAW mode at 3 frames per second (fps).
SD Card
The SD15 adopts the SD card (compatible with SDHC) which is also used with the DP series of Sigma cameras, improving convenience to users of both camera systems.
3.0" TFT Color LCD Monitor
The SD15 camera features a 3.0" TFT color LCD monitor. This 460,000 pixel resolution LCD monitor benefits from a wide viewing angle, making it easy to check focusing and composition. It is possible to review the captured images with a Contact-Sheet View (nine thumbnail images), Single-Image View or Zoomed-In View (it is possible to select the magnified area by using the 4-way controller). While reviewing images, it is possible to display the detailed shooting information such as shutter speed and F-value by pressing the INFO button.
Intuitive User Interface
The improved user interface provides faster and more convenient operation of the camera. The Quick Set button activates the display of the most commonly used camera functions such as Color mode, White Balance, Image Quality and Image Size on one screen. The 4-Way Controller ensures faster operation of these features. The FUNC button enables functions such as Flash mode and Synchro mode.
RAW Format Recording
The SD15 includes a RAW recording mode for retaining full image capture detail of the utmost quality plus a JPEG recording format for convenience. The RAW data format uses lossless compression for more compact, yet uncompromised, data files. The RAW data format of the SD15 keeps brightness and color data in a 1:1 ratio without relying on interpolation. Each pixel location captures the full color RGB data which, when processed in Sigma Photo Pro, will preserve the balance of the natural data for the best photos with the best image quality.
Includes Sigma Photo Pro 4.0 Software
The supplied image processing software of "Sigma Photo Pro 4.0" converts RAW data quickly and easily. Incorporation of a new noise reduction algorithm reduces Chroma and Luminance noise when processing X3F files taken at ISO400 or more. It is possible to adjust the level of reduction for noise just by moving the slider in the control pallet. This software is compatible with multi core CPUs, ensuring high speed image processing. It also incorporates functions such as Loupe, Slideshow, Printing, JPEG Conversion and Batch White Balance settings.
Reliable and Durable Shutter
The durable focal plane shutter mechanism has a life cycle of over 100,000 exposures and dramatically reduces the amount of dust and dirt from the shutter mechanism. The photographer can enjoy taking pictures without worrying about dust and dirt adhering to the image sensor either from inside or outside the camera.
Image Sensor Dust Protector
Most digital SLR cameras are vulnerable to dust entering the body. If the dust and dirt adhere to the image sensor, it may appear in the pictures. The mount of the SD 15 is equipped with a dust protector and the sealing parts are incorporated around the mount, preventing dust from entering the body. Even if dust adheres to the image sensor, the dust protector can be removed easily for sensor cleaning.
Large and Bright Pentaprism Viewfinder
The SD15 features a Pentaprism viewfinder with 98% (vertical and horizontal) coverage, 0.9x magnification and an 18mm eye point. A diopter adjustment is also equipped which can be adjusted from -3 to +1.5dpt.
Fast and Precise Focusing with 5-point AF
The auto focus sensor features 5 focusing points (center, left, right, up and down) ensuring consistently fast and precise focusing. The AF metering features a cross type sensor in the center of the screen. Selecting the AF point can be done automatically or manually by photographer.
Four Metering Modes & Auto Bracketing
The SD15 is equipped with four metering modes: 77-segment Evaluative, Center Weighted Average, Center Area, and Spot.
When it is difficult to determine the exposure setting due to variable light conditions, the Auto Bracketing function enables the photographer to take a sequence of pictures of the same subject at three or five different exposure levels. The shift value can be set in 1/3EV increments up to ±3EV (3 stops) or ±1.7EV (5 stops).
ISO 50 Available
It is possible to select ISO sensitivity value from 100 to 1600. When the camera is in the extended mode, ISO 50 and ISO 3200 can be selected.
Two Motor Systems to Prevent Camera Shake
Two motor systems are driven by the mirror-drive and shutter charge which lowers the vibration of the mirror movement, preventing camera shake.
Mirror Lock-up Mechanism
The mirror lock-up mechanism raises the mirror, preventing vibration when the shutter is released. This prevents camera shake and is especially effective for macro photography or when using extremely long telephoto lenses. Use of the dedicated Remote Controller RS-31 (optional) also reduces the possibility of camera shake.
Built-in Flash
The Sigma SD15 camera's built-in flash offers an angle of coverage of 17mm (equivalent to 28mm with 35mm full size lens) with a guide number of 11 (ISO 100), and can be synchronized to a shutter speed up to 1/180 sec. This built-in flash enables automatic S-TTL shooting, which allows simple, easy control of advanced photography techniques.
Backlight Top LCD Panel
The top LCD panel allows the photographer to quickly check camera information such as resolution setting, metering mode, battery status and the number of images that can be recorded on the SD card. It also incorporates an orange backlight, which enables the camera to be easily controlled in low light conditions.
Dedicated Rechargeable, Large Capacity Battery
The dedicated BP-21 Lithium-ion battery is supplied as standard with the SD15. It is possible to shoot approximately 500 images on one full charge. The battery takes about 120 minutes to fully charge with the supplied BC-21 Battery Charger. The optional AC Adapter SAC-4 enables the Sigma SD15 to obtain power from the main supply.
In-camera JPEG Mode Offers Added Convenience
The SIGMA SD15 incorporates both RAW and JPEG image recording formats enabling photographers to capture the highest possible picture definition and small file sizes. There are four JPEG recording modes - Super High can be used for A3 (11.6 x 16.5", 297 x 420mm) or larger prints; High for A4 size (8.2 x 11.6", 210 x 297mm) printing; Medium can be used for regular size printing. Low can be used for web-page and e-mail transmission. There is also a choice of three JPEG compression levels - Fine, Normal and Basic.
Easy-to-use Multifunction Interface
The layout of the control buttons insures quick identification of the desired functions and easy use of the multifunction interface in operating camera settings. Clearly marked buttons make it easy for the photographer to display and adjust the most important settings, namely ISO, resolution, JPEG quality and file type, and white balance, on one screen, using one button. The top LCD panel incorporates a backlight, which enables the camera to be easily controlled in low light or dark conditions.