Nikon Df classic style camera with modern technology

Nikon DF, a retro DSLR camera. Image: kenrockwell.com

Now, you can use a modern DSLR camera in clasic style, Nikon has released a DSLR in the style of its F-series film cameras, the Nikon Df. This camera is a blend of classic and modern. The camera's appearance is inspired by a much earlier generation of film cameras. Using Nikon Df feels like to rediscover the joy of photography. Nikon Df is a thrilling FX-format D-SLR with a unique mechanical operation system and classic styling along with Nikon's flagship digital camera technology.

 

Nikon DF sample image. Image: whatdigitalcamera.com

The Nikon Df is designed exclusively for taking still photos, enabling high reliability, advanced functions and elegant camera control in Nikon's thinnest, lightest FX-format D-SLR. The Nikon Df is, at first appearance, a classically styled DSLR with traditional external controls, so you will enjoy dedicated mechanical dials for shutter speed, so you will enjoy a traditional control, it really feels like a camera belonging to the father of your grandfather when the camera is still using a mechanical system, in the era of film cameras, but in the DF Nikon body, you will get the latest technology as befits the latest DSLR cameras.

Nikon Df, a DSLR in clasic style. Image: digitalartsonline.co.uk

The Nikon DF is equipped with advanced 16.2-MP FX-format image sensor and EXPEED 3 processing engine from the D4, Nikon's ultra-fast 39-point AF system, an ultra-high resolution LCD display and even Wi-Fi photo sharing. 

Nikon Df is built around the 16MP full frame sensor from the company's flagship D4 with the processor and AF system borrowed from the comparatively affordable D610. The camera is designed to produce sharp photographs, detailed images with rich, faithful colors, even in low light with the AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Special Edition.

As well as the Nikon D610, the Nikon DF has 39 AF points, Including nine cross-type sensors-, seven of the which are still available when used with lenses that have effective apertures of f / 8 or larger. This is good news for photographers who like to use 2x teleconverters to give extra reach their lenses. You will also get a large optical viewfinder in Nikon DF - the same size as the D800. The magnification is 0.70x and, naturally, the coverage is 100%. Your eyes will be satisfied with the viewfinder on this retro camera. The Nikon Df boasts a full-frame sensor, 39-point AF system and a maximum shooting rate of 5.5 fps.

Nikon DF major features:

      

• 16 megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor (same as D4)
• 39-point AF system with 9 cross-type AF points (same as D610)
• 3.2-inch, 921k-dot LCD screen
• ISO 100-25,600 (expandable to ISO 50 - 204,800 equivalent)
• Maximum 5.5 fps continuous shooting
• Physical shutter speed, ISO and exposure compensation dials
• Compatible with virtually all Nikon F-mount lenses (including pre-Ai standard)
• Single SD card slot
• EN-EL14a battery (quoted endurance of 1400 exposures)

 You will enjoy The LCD on the rear of the camera is a 3.2", 921k-dot display and, despite its 'fully manual' pretensions, the Df boasts front and rear electronic control dials alongside the dedicated physical dials on the top-plate. It's a thoroughly modern DSLR for the most part, but with one major difference.

 

Nikon DF on the rear. Image: trustedreviews.com

Nikon DF is not equipped with a video, so you cannot make a video clip, but the ability of the lens; you can make pictures sharp and detailed images. It looks like the factory wants to ensure retro predecessors Nikon camera, in the era of film cameras.

 If you are a camera history lover, then when you bring this camera for a vacation to the island paradise of Bali, or to the historic city like Budapest or Prague, I believe you will feel like doing time travel, so you do not have to be disappointed with the "loss" features of video on Nikon DF. This is a serious camera for serious people which is to be used for 'pure photography', not videos, the Df still boasts a full complement of retouch options including the decidedly lightweight fisheye and miniature effects.

If Nikon engineers accidentally cut off the video features of Nikon DF, then the intent is quite reasonable, because the DSLR camera users very rarely make a movie or a video clip with a DSLR camera. Are you also classified as a still photos photographer? If so, then you are fit to be friends with Nikon Df. 

Sample photo in low light conditions. Image: whatdigitalcamera.com

If you are loyal users of Nikon digital SLR camera, the Nikon DF are also compatible with non-AI lenses, and when you release the shutter you will hear a fantastic shutter sound. 

Moreover this camera is outstanding in low-light and high ISO performance, though no video capture capabilities. If you want a DSLR camera with video features, then you can choose another Nikon brother of the Nikon D610 or Canon, as its main competitor, the Canon EOS 70D or mirrorless cameras like the Panasonic GH3, and Olympus OMD EM1. The decision is always in your hands. If you do not care about video, you can buy a new Nikon DF with a price range of U.S. $ 2,747. Perhaps you will get a special discount if you are smart bargain, when you visit the nearest camera shop in your town, you can even get a memory card for free. You can try. 

Canon EOS 70D vs. Sony Alpha A7 contend with various of great features

Canon EOS 70D with Scene Intelligent. Image: digitalcameraworld.com

If you're looking for a DSLR camera, then you might consider the Canon EOS 70D or Sony Alpha 7. The EOS 70D is a mid-range SLR Aimed squarely at enthusiast photographers, meanwhile The Sony Alpha 7 is a full-frame E-mount mirrorless camera. Sony Alpha A 7 is the smallest and lightest full-frame cameras on the market. Sony Alpha 7 has 24.3MP sensor enables high resolution images and low light effectiveness with its standard ISO sensitivity range of 100-25600

Sony Alpha A7 a full frame camera. Image: snapsort.com

The 70D has an innovative 20.2MP 'Dual Pixel CMOS AF' sensor, promising hugely improved autofocus in live view and during movie recording. For shooting with the optical viewfinder it has a 19-point AF module borrowed from the EOS 7D. It's also packed full of Canon's latest technology, including full touchscreen control, built-in Wi-Fi for image sharing and remote camera control from your smartphone, 7 fps continuous shooting, and an ISO range of 100-12800 (25600 expanded). 

Sony A7 is equipped with Fast Intelligent AF works in conjunction with the powerful new BIONZ X image processor to deliver blazingly quick, accurate autofocus that effortlessly tracks moving objects. The a7 adds Hybrid AF technology to freeze fast-moving athletes, wildlife or lively children with a crisply-focused burst of images at up to 5 frames per second.

You will find that The EOS 70D features Canon's all-new Dual Pixel CMOS AF, a revolutionary leap forward in speed and accuracy that unlocks the potential of Live View shooting. On the EOS 70D, Dual Pixel CMOS AF helps ensure focus is achieved naturally and precisely, even when switching between subjects. And, combined with the predictive power of Movie Servo AF, subjects in motion are smoothly and consistently tracked - once the EOS 70D locks focus, it doesn't let go. Plus, with the shallow depth-of-field afforded by EOS optics, your video gains a cinematic ambience.

Meanwhile, the Sony Alpha 7 has Full HD video at up to 50 progressive frames per second, with full P/A/S/M exposure control.  You can View your footage live as its being recorded on an external monitor screen, just like a film director would.  The Alpha A7 supports in-camera AVCHD codec frames rates in super-smooth 60p, standard 60i or cinematic 24p.

Just as the Sony Alpha A7, then The EOS 70D also incorporates cutting edge wireless technology right into its compact design. The camera's exposure settings, such as aperture, shutter speed and ISO, focus, and shutter can be operated wirelessly using an iOS or Android smartphone with the free Canon EOS Remote app. At Sony A7 you will also find the ability to Connect with Wi-Fi and wirelessly transfer photos to your iPad, iPhone or Android smartphones. And if you're using an Xperia or NFC-compatible smartphone or tablet, just one touch is all it takes to connect with your mobile. Is the Canon EOS 70D can also be connected with the Sony Xperia? Please try and prove it.

Sony Alpha A 7 has Two Custom modes on the shooting mode dial allow you quickly access different combinations of settings. The proven Sweep Panorama mode lets you capture a panoramic image very easily without the use of a tripod. Looks like Sweep Panorama feature has become a tradition at the Sony camera; these features also be found either in the category of compact-system camera manufactured by Sony. It looks like Sony wants to spoil the user from all walks of life, both novice photographers and more advanced photographers.

At Canon EOS 70D you will get seven frame exposure bracketing and in-camera HDR options, which will make you more creative, especially on the EOS 70D you will be spoiled with the Scene Intelligent Auto (Stills and Movie), No Flash, Creative Auto, SCN (Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night Portrait, Handheld Night Scene, HDR Backlight Control), Program AE, Shutter priority AE, Aperture priority AE, Manual (Stills and Movie), Bulb, and Custom. As usual, the Canon EOS 70D you still enjoys the features comprising the Picture Styles: Auto, Standard, Portrait, Landscape, Neutral, Faithful, Monochrome, User Defined (x3).

 

Sony A7 vs Nikon D610. Image: snapsort.com

The Sony Alpha A7 is an incredible camera that delivers the full-frame DSLR quality of the Canon EOS 6D or Nikon D610, but from a body that's considerably smaller and lighter. Canon EOS 70D is the best all round DSLR camera. By enhancing the viewfinder, AF and burst shooting, it approaches the response and handling you'd expect from a semi-pro DSLR, making it a confident performer for sports. 

You can have the Sony Alpha A7 at a price range of US$ 1.749; while the Canon EOS 70D can you get with a more affordable price, about US$ 999. The difference is of course on the features of each of the cameras, but at a price of U$ 1.749 on Sony A7 you can have a full frame camera. All the decision is in your hands, yet you still can compare this camera with the latest camera from Ricoh, the PentaxK-60 that has been reinforced with a weather-resistant body.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1 with Wi-Fi functionality

Just for additional information, Panasonic and Olympus are the pioneers mirrorless camera or DSLM in 2008. Now both of them are more serious to produce mirrorless camera to be able to compete with Digital SLR cameras. Panasonic and Olympus continues to develop this type of camera in a variety of sizes and features, and now Panasonic unveiled something of a very different shape: Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1, a pocket able camera with a 16 megapixel Four Thirds sensor. It uses the same Micro Four Thirds mount that its much larger siblings Olympus and Panasonic have been using for years, but at introduction will be sold with a specially designed 12-32mm F3.5-5.6 kit zoom sporting a smaller diameter for the GM1's especially diminutive form.

This beautiful girl is trying new Panasonic DMC-GM1. Image: prweb.com

The GM1 retains much of the successful inner workings from the much larger Panasonic Lumix GX7. This new camera has Light Speed AF system that the manufacturer claims operates at a 240fps data read out rate. All exterior dials, buttons and lever components have been crafted of aluminum and thoughtfully placed for convenient operation. Panasonic GM1 has built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, a pop-up flash, silent electronic shutter with a maximum shutter speed of 1/16000s, Full 60i/50i HD video recording, high-speed Light Speed AF system, focus peaking and RAW support.

 

Panasonic DMC-GM1 has meant good luck for novice photographers since the camera is equipped with features such as HDR in DSLR cameras. HDR (High Dynamic Range) automatically composites several images of varying exposures in order to gain greater highlight and shadow details and an extensive range of middle tones.

Creative Control feature

You also will be made happy by the following features: The iA (Intelligent Auto) modes help to intelligently assign a range of exposure-related benefits in order to produce more realistic, high-quality imagery, and include Handheld Night Shot, IHDR (Intelligent High Dynamic Range), AF Tracking,  Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Recognition,  Intelligent D-range Control, and Intelligent ISO Control. Additionally, iA Plus Mode Enables control over background defocus, exposure compensation, and white balance settings for even more refined control.

Panasonic DMC-GM1 key features:

• 16MP Live MOS sensor
• 1080 HD video recording at 60i/30p
• Built-in Wi-Fi
• 3.0-inch, 1036K dot touch-sensitive LCD
• Built-in pop-up flash
• 1/16,000 maximum shutter speed (with all-electronic shutter)
• Focus peaking
• Picture-in-picture magnification for manual focus
• Micro HDMI output
• Magnesium-alloy shell with aluminum top and bottom plates

The other good news is that the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1's 12-32mm kit lens proved impressively sharp for one so relatively small, maintaining detail across the frames and also enabling us to achieve some attractively shallow depth of field effects, so you'll get impressive photos.

 

Panasonic GM1 in four color. Image: fareastgizmos.com

To make creative pictures, make sure you maximize the unique features of the DMC-GM1 for example, Multi Exposure mode. This feature Allows up to four distinct exposures to be made ​​and layered within a single frame for unique, creative effects, of course; in which you can use to the fullest the Creative Control mode. 

This feature facilitates the creation of imagery creatively enhanced by providing 22 different effects, Including Expressive, Retro, Old Days, High Key, Low Key, Sepia, Monochrome, Dynamic Monochrome, Miniature Effect, Soft Focus, Fantasy, Star Filter, One Point Color, Rough Monochrome, Silky Monochrome, Impressive Art, High Dynamic, Cross Process, Toy Effect, Toy Pop, Sunshine and Bleach Bypass. Things to excite the novice photographer is because the camera is equipped with a built-in flash, so no need to spend extra money for a flash.

With a wide range of creative features and Full-HD video capabilities integrated in the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1, then you can make a variety of photos and videos with impressive results, you can even share to a range of social media networks thanks to the Wi-Fi function on this camera . You can also connect the DMC-GM1 to a high definition television using an HDMI cable, so you and your family can watch video clips or your stock photos in high definition performances.

Panasonic DMC-GM1 compare to Pentax Q10 and Nikon 1J2. Image: quesabesde.com

Before you decide to buy Panasonic DMC-GM1, you can compare them advance in a variety of stores such as the nearest competitor camera with the Olympus E-PL5, Q10 Pentax, Nikon 1J2, Fujifilm X-M1, Sony NX6, Canon EOS M2, Samsung NEX2000, even with its own Panasonic products such as Panasonic GX7, Panasonic G6 and Panasonic GF6. 

You can compare from various aspects such as size, shape, body, specifications or features offered by each camera, and of course the price, and whether it also meets your needs. Simple suggestion: in addition to reading various reviews on photography magazines and reviews on the Internet, then hold each camera, and try it yourself at your favorite camera stores, is the best way to feel the sophistication of the cameras, so you can make the right decision. The professional photographers also do the same way.

Fujifilm X-T1 appear with the sophistication of a DSLR camera

New Fujifilm X-T1 from Japan. Image: tomen.de

Fujifilm is one of the best regarded camera brands worldwide. This famous company just launched the new Fujifilm X-T1 interchangeable lens camera with the world's fastest Real Time Viewfinder with a lag-time of 0.005 sec and the world's highest magnification ratio. 

The X-T1 is a direct competitor to the Olympus OM-D, except it has a larger APS-C sized 16.3-megapixel sensor instead of the OM-D’s Four-Thirds sensor. Fujifilm is clearly targeting more serious photographers — likely even photographers looking for a capable, but slightly more casual alternative to their full-frame DSLR. This camera looks and feels very much like a miniature normal DSLR. The X-T1 features a ground-breaking piece of technology in the form of its viewfinder. Fujifilm X-T1 also has four display modes offer a shooting experience impossible with an optical viewfinder:



      1. “Full” mode takes full advantage of the high magnification ratio of the X-T1's viewfinder to   give an unrivalled view of the scene.

2.     “Normal” provides an optimum view, including shooting settings

3.    “Dual” is specially designed for manual focusing with a clever split view. Where the regular view and manual focus area can be simultaneously checked (with Digital Split Image™ or Focus Peak Highlight).

4.    For a “Portrait” view in “Normal” and “Full” modes, the interface automatically rotates when the camera is held vertically.

Fujifilm X-T1 is equipped with a weather-proof body, five mechanical dials and six customizable function buttons, and compatibility with Ultra High Speed UHS-II SDXC memory cards. You can use this camera to make creative photos because Fujifilm X-T1 has a range of film simulation modes, multiple exposure and panoramic shooting modes, Digital Split Image and Focus Peaking for easier manual focusing, and Full HD video recording capabilities at up to 60fps.

From the specifications chart it looks as if it will be setting the standard for a new and exciting category of professional digital camera. The X-T1 is a direct competitor to the OM-D from Olympus and Sony A7/A7R, Samsung NX300, Panasonic GX7 or Pentax K7. The Fujifilm X-T1 is available mid-to-late February 2014 and will retail at US$1,299 or €1,300 for the body on its own or US$1,699 or €1,800 with the excellent XF 18-55mm zoom kit lens.

Is the price is quite comfortable withyour budget? Youdo not have to choosethis camera because you can still buy thesecompetitors, and anyway you can still geta variety of features to support your creativity in the field of photography. Or you canchoose a camera last year's model; of course you willget a more affordable price. After all the technology and features of the camera in 3 years is not too much difference. Sometimes we have to be wise in making decisions even though it is related to lifestyleand new technologies.

Olympus E-OMD M10 a budget mirrorless camera

Olympus-OMD-E-M10 new mirrorless camera. Image: donanimhaber.com

If you have a dream to own a fantastic mirrorless camera without spending too much money, probably the new Olympus OMD E-M10 is great choice. Please take a closer look on this new camera. The Olympus E-M10 wraps much of the E-M5's feature set into a smaller, more compact body. It retains core OM-D features like twin dials, a built-in EVF and a 16 megapixel Four Thirds sensor, but manages to fit them into a body that's more Olympus Stylus 1than ILC. It sits below its E-M5 and E-M1 siblings in terms of both price and specifications, but with features borrowed from two very strong predecessors it's potentially a very impressive camera in its own right.

The E-M10 is armed with TruePic VII processor, 3-axis image stabilization derived from the E-M5 and E-M1′s 5-axis system, Olympus’ 81-point ‘FAST AF’ system, 8fps continuous shooting (unlimited JPEG or 20 RAW frames), 3.5fps continuous with tracking AF enabled, ISO expandable to 100-25,600 and a pop-up flash (a first for the OM-D lineup) optimized for 1/250th synchronization.  On the topic of speed, the E-M10 is capable of sequential shooting at 8 fps for up to 20 RAW shots. With the built-in flash, you do not need to buy an external flash, so you can save your money to buy an additional memory card with greater capacity.

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 is very stylish, compact, all-metal body plus 1.44M-dot EVF with a 120 fps refresh rate, a 100-percent field of view and a maximum magnification of 1.15x; a 3-inch tilting, 1.037M-dot touchscreen LCD and built-in Wi-Fithat lets you join instantly by using your smart device to scan a QR code displayed on the camera’s LCD screen, focus peaking, built-in interval shooting capability and more. It can also record Full HD video at 1080p 30 fps.

If you have the soul of art or you want to stimulate your creativity, then the Olympus E - M10 are ready to answer your challenge, because this camera has been equipped with features such as Art Filters and Creative Controls effects like Color Creator, Highlight / Shadow control, Image Aspect control, Live Histogram, Display of five different grid patterns and even a Level Gauge - all without having to remove your eye from the viewfinder. With Wi-Fi, you can share your photos to social media networks, so your friends and your family can enjoy your photography creativity.

Olympus-E-M10 (left) vs. Olympus-E-M5-1. Image: cameracomparisonreview.com

The new OM-D E-M10 is a retro styling camera that gives you pro-style performance in a camera you can actually carry. Its thoughtful design centers on a solid, while its ergonomic shape and nimble control schemes allow you to focus in getting the perfect shot. This new camera you can take anywhere with cozy for a vacation in Bali, perfect for family gatherings, birthday parties, chat with friends, and even can support your business activities with your clients and business associates.

Olympus E-M10 key features

• 16 megapixels Four Thirds Sensor
• TruePic VII Image processor
• Viewfinder EVF 100%
• No low-Pass-Filter
• 200-25600 ISO range
• 60 Sec 1/4000 sec Shutter
• Shooting Speed @8fps
• Full HD video
• 1920 x 1080@30fps

Olympus has the E - M10 give many of the excellent features of the OM - D E - M5, and some from the E - M1 at the top of Olympus’s OM -D range. Do you want to get hold of this new camera? You do not need to worry because the Olympus OM - D E - M10 is on sale from mid - February. It will be available in either black or silver and will cost U.S. $ 700 body-only, or $ 800 with a 14-42 EZ - mm (powerzoom) f3.5 - f5.6 kit lens. Of course you need to compare this camera to other mirrorless cameras like Samsung NX series, Sony NEX series or Panasonic GF series and Canon EOS M2.

Canon EOS 70D compare to Nikon D7100

Canon EOS 70D vs Nikon D7100.

It's always interesting to compare cameras made ​​by Canon to Nikon. Since the days of analog cameras both have fought in endless competition, even in this digital age they are still neck and neck in the presence of a variety of digital cameras of renowned brands such as Sony, Panasonic and Olympus. Now we see how the Canon EOS 70D difference with the Nikon D7100, and please you decides which one you will choose as friends for the holidays or other events.

Nikon D7100 versus Canon EOS 70D. Image: youtube.com

The Canon EOS 70D is a mid-range DSLR that's built for video.  Canon EOS 7D it wasn't just as a replacement for the aging 60D, it was also as a direct response to Nikon's D7100. Both the Canon EOS 70D and the Nikon D7100 feature APS-C sized image sensors. Both systems feature a sensor cleaning system to remove dirt and dust. Both cameras are exactly what you'd expect for enthusiast-focused DSLRs. 

 

The 70D replaces the EOS 60D by adding wireless connectivity options, a higher megapixel count, and touch controls.  Compared with the US$1,199 Nikon D7100 with its 24.1-MPix CMOS sensor the EOS 70D has -1.0 stop less Color Depth, -2.0 stops less in Dynamic Range and around -0.2 (1/5) stop less in Low-light ISO scores. Canon 20.2-Megapixel, Dual Pixel CMOS imaging sensor provides larger pixels and greatly increases the AF performance in several ways. Even with the differences, both cameras produced excellent images in all lighting conditions.

Nikon D7100 has a 24.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, 6 fps continuous shooting, and can take full HD video. It can also connect to iOS or Android devices with an optional wireless adaptor, allowing for easy sharing from anywhere. Essentially, both cameras feature Wi-Fi capabilities that allow you to easily share your images with the world.

Both the Canon DIGIC 5+ and Nikon Expeed 3 image processors are capable of providing the power to handle the Intelligent Auto and multi-shot shooting modes and the continuous AF systems in both still and video shooting. Both cameras feature full 1080p HD video capture with on board stereo sound. Nikon allows for up to 60 fps at the full 1080p while Canon tops out at 30fps.

 

Canon EOS 70D. Image: canonwatch.com

Both Canon and Nikon’s mounting systems, the EF Mount and F Mount, are very well known and neither has any distinct advantages over the other. However, if you want a cheaper lens you can look for third-party lenses like Tokina, Tamron or Sigma. 

They have a lot of lenses that produce very interesting to be a substitute for use on Canon and Nikon cameras, and even certain types made ​​more unique than lenses made ​​by Nikon or Canon. You can compare the prices and features of the third party lenses, with original lens made ​​by Canon or Nikon.

Nikon D7100 appears to have the edge with a 51 point focus system, with 15 cross-type. But the Canon isn't far behind as all of its 19 focus points are cross-type. Nikon uses a 2016-pixel RGB sensor to control its contrast-detection AF. Canon features 19 cross-type sensors while the Nikon features 15 (out of 51 total AF points). However, Canon's new Dual-Pixel CMOS sensor allows for phase-detection AF on 80% of the 20.2-Megapixel imaging sensor. This greatly increases the speed and accuracy of shooting in Live View.

 

Nikon D7100. Image: product-reviews.net

Both cameras are capable of more than respectable continuous burst rates. While the Canon 70D has the wider ISO range, covering 100-12,800 to the Nikon's 100-6,400.

 If we look in more detail, both the Nikon D7100 and the Canon EOS 70D is a Mid-level DSLR cameras are starting to take on features from all other cameras; Including features from point-n-shoots, ILCS and all levels of DSLRs, making them more powerful Easier to use and at the same time.

The Nikon D7100 is frequently bundled with an 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens, while the 70D can come with an 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS. Nikon and Canon seem to be taking these models in different directions compared to their predecessors (the Nikon D7000 and Canon 60D). While both the Canon EOS 70D and the Nikon D7100 is fantastic cameras that would be great for anyone looking to purchase their first DSLR.

Now you can have the chance to get this great camera at a cheaper price, considering about to go out the latest range of cameras, both types of DSLR and mirrorless cameras, Prosumer cameras and compact-system cameras. Use the search engine to search for information rebates for Canon and Nikon.

Sigma DP3 Merrill with full range of creative shooting modes

If you want a digital camera with excellent image quality at lower ISOs you can choose Sigma DP3 Merrill. This camera also has very sharp lens, simple interface and solid build quality. You can enjoy better high ISO image performance than previous cameras but still can’t keep up with most other modern sensors. The cameras have always exhibited exceptional low ISO abilities and some extremely detailed and chromatically-rich RAW files.

Sigma DP3 Merrill. Image: luminous-landscape.com

Sigma, with its long history of making lenses for other manufacturers' cameras and more recently its own DSLRs, has developed this lens specifically for the DP3 Merrill. The Sigma DP3 uses a new 50mm f/2.8 prime lens, which -- after accounting for the 1.5x focal length crop of its APS-C image sensor -- is the equivalent of a 75mm optic on a 35mm camera. The lens design features 10 elements in eight groups, and there's a seven-bladed aperture diaphragm. Focusing is possible to as close as 8.9 inch (22.6cm), and maximum magnification be 1:3 (0.33x). 

 

Foveon X3 CMOS image sensor

This camera is equipped with 15.4 megapixel Foveon X3 CMOS image sensor as seen in both previous fixed-lens Merrill’s, as well as the Sigma SD1 DSLR and its rebranded variant, the SD1 Merrill. Like all Foveon sensors, this captures full color information at every pixel location.

The Sigma DP3 Merrill, the newest iteration of the company's enthusiast large sensor compact camera. The Sigma DP3 Merrill also armed with Dual TRUE II image processing engine, 3-inch TFT color monitor with 920,000 dots, and full range of creative shooting modes, manual focus ring, external hotshoe, RAW format support and Quick Set button. You can maximize this camera to make many creative photos.

Utilizing an aluminum alloy body, the Sigma DP3 Merrill is an exceedingly well built camera. If you'd wish using an optical viewfinder to frame your images, Sigma offers the optional VF-21 viewfinder. Sigma's viewfinder solution offers a large, bright view of the scene in front of you. Just like a DSLR, the DP3 Merrill offers both JPEG and RAW recording formats. There are 3 different JPEG compression levels, and a choice of four sizes including a 16:9 widescreen mode. 

The Sigma DP3 Merrill is a compact camera with a large APS-C sized sensor, as used in larger and heavier compact system camera and DSLR models and therefore promising finer image quality than other compact cameras. This camera can also be used to make a movie or a video clip. 

Sigma DP3 Merrill a brilliant compact camera. Image: steves-digicams.com

The main rival of this camera are: Fujifilm X100S promises to be a faster version of  the X100, The Leica X1 a premium camera with a premium price-tag US$1995 is a lot to ask for a compact camera, albeit one with a large APS-C sensor, the Canon PowerShot G1 X is a serious compact camera with a large 1.5-inch image sensor, also Olympus XZ-2 is a serious compact that's aimed at the enthusiast and professional user, Ricoh GXR a truly innovative modular system, where you swap both the lens and the image sensor at the same time, the Pentax MX-1 with tilting 3-inch LCD screen and an appealingly retro design, and also Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1 is the first ever compact camera with a 35mm full-frame sensor.

Is Sigma DP3 can compete in the market in terms of features and price? The lens on this camera is capable of producing sharp pictures and satisfying, but you are entitled to choose a camera of any brand according to the needs, style and other factors that could be your consideration before selecting a camera for a variety of needs.