Another Dimension in Photographic Expression.
The DP series: a new lineage
The DP2's and DP2s's standard lens is
brand-new and purpose-designed,
with a focal length equivalent to
41mm in a 35mm camera. We wanted
to allow photographic effects beyond
the scope of the focal length of the
wide-angle lens of the DP1, which is
equivalent to 28mm in a 35mm camera.
So we gave the DP2 a standard-
range focal length more suitable for
snapshots and portraits.
Still, we also wanted the DP2 and DP2s
to deliver the unique 3-D feel and
texture that made the DP1 so special.
We gave it the kind of MTF and all-
round lens performance only possible
with single-index models. When it
comes to the textural feel of the images,
when focal length and F-numbers make
all the difference, we've made sure that
the DP2 is right up there with the DP1.
Meanwhile, we've tweaked the DP2's
user interface, making it even easier to
shoot pictures just the way you want.
While respecting your autonomy as an
artist, we've built in all the photographic
functions you need. Since the DP2 is
a lightweight compact, we want you
to carry it around every day. That's
why we've made it a more complete
photographic tool.
The camera that turns
ordinary into awesome.
The DP1's wide-angle lens is good
with perspective,—geared towards
dynamic shots of scenery, buildings,
celebrations. The standard lens built
into the DP2 and DP2s, on the other
hand, has a narrower field angle, giving
a stronger effect, making the subject
stand out. In other words, we've given
it the ability to create the photo that
you, and only you, can see in your
mind's eye. Naturally, this is great for
portraits. And for capturing the elusive
beauty of ordinary, everyday subjects,
this standard lens is ideal.
Its focal length is longer than the DP1’
s lens. So, at low F-numbers (larger
apertures), you can create amazing
pictures by deliberately blurring the
background. This makes the subject
stand out sharply, in a compelling,
almost mystical way. In this sense,
you could say the DP2 and DP2s
turns ordinary into awesome.
The single-focal length lens:
hassle or helpful?
Some say that single-focal length
lenses are tricky to use, and too
much hassle. Would you agree?
There was a time when they were
standard. But when high-performance
zoom-lenses appeared on the scene,
single-focal length lenses were nudged
out of their mainstream position and
relegated to the sidelines, where they
have remained for many a year. No
wonder most people think of them
as a niche product.
Sure, when you have to shoot from
just one spot, with no physical room to
move, a high-magnification zoom lens,
covering the range from wide-angle to
telephoto, is the height of convenience.
And conversely, when your single-focal
length lens has the wrong field angle
for the situation, you might not get
the ideal shot.
Nevertheless, despite this
“inconvenience”, many amateur
photographers still love single-focal
length lenses. They keep taking great
pictures with them. Of course, in wide-
aperture lenses of F2 and over, or
telephoto/super-wide-angle lenses,
or macro or fisheye lenses, the single-
focal option gives the best overall
balance. But that's not the only reason.
A lens that takes you
back to basics.
Using a single-focal length lens makes
you pay attention to the basics of
photography. Sigma believes that
taking a photo should always be a
fully conscious, personal act. Choosing
the subject. Finding the best angle.
Framing the shot in the best way
possible. Considering the light and
shadow falling on the subject. Taking
the colors in account. These are all
elements of photography. In our view,
it's only by making these choices for
yourself that you can relate to your
subject and your photo in your own
uniquely personal way.
These are the very shots that end up
being your best-ever pictures.
Your emotionally-charged asterpieces.
The ones that resonate with everyone
who sees them. Sure, you would go
through the same basic process if you
were using a zoom lens.
But with a zoom lens, you can get
the perfect field angle with a single
twist of the zoom ring. Creatively
speaking, that makes it harder to get
into the “zone”. We're not knocking
zoom lenses. Once you understand
how convenient they are, you can go
all-out and take full advantage of the
benefits they offer. But just remember,
their very convenience can diminish
some of the most fascinating and
crucial aspects of photography.
Less is more.
With a single-focal length lenses,
there's no convenient zoom function.
You have to “zoom with your egs”,
and frame the shot yourself.
Remember our conviction that it
should be you, not the camera, who
takes the picture. We think this effort
is all part of the art. Using a zoom lens
is like painting by numbers. A single-
focal length lenses gets you physically
moving, forces you to frame your own
shot, opens your eyes to unexpected
beauty. It makes taking pictures more
fun. It engages your creativity more
fully. Like the saying goes, less is more.
Single-focal length lenses can be a
challenge, but it's no drawback.
Are you looking for a camera that
brings out the artist in you?
That would be the DP series.
What could you do with them?
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