v_roma
Well-known
I'm also interested in the dp2m. It seems a shame that they removed the manual focus wheel that was in the previous versions. That was a handy thing to have. You could get the OVF, turn off the LCD, and just use the wheel to set the MF distance for zone focusing.
I'm also struggling with the notion that this camera is really best as a still life camera shot with a tripod. If you're already carrying a tripod, doesn't that negate the small size advantage of the camera?
I'm also struggling with the notion that this camera is really best as a still life camera shot with a tripod. If you're already carrying a tripod, doesn't that negate the small size advantage of the camera?
Are you sure the manual focus ring around the lens doesn't allow for the same functionality?
Get the dslr version then.
d_ross
Registered User
I have mine (DP2M) now, and can say you don't need a tripod, but if you do use one you will be rewarded for the effort!
I have shot everything so far handheld and the files are phenomenal! the auto focus is not an issue to me as some have mentioned, and the manual focus ring on the lens instead of the wheel, which I also like on the DP2, is really good when you get used to it. The battery is the only issue, but you just need to carry a couple of extras, and the inconvenience of changing batteries is of little consequence when placed against the performance of the camera.
d_ross
Registered User
The DP2 focus wheel has a distance scale on it, so you could turn the LCD off, but with the Merrill you need the lcd to see the scale.
I see. Thanks.
darya150
Member
The images are incredible. AlL cameras have limitations - the M8 has a limited ISO range, the Digilux, with its amazing lens, should really be used at 100 ASA, any higher and you're pushing it! My main concern is PP. I've heard that Sigma has a program to process images. I've also heard it's a PIA to use. Is this true? How difficult is it to use? Are there other ways to post process the Sigma images?
v_roma
Well-known
Over twice the cost, excluding lens
I am not trying to say that the DP2M is a bad camera just to argue myself out of buying it. Far from it, whatever issues the camera may or may not have, I think it is well worth the cost on the strength of the sensor and lens alone. I am just trying to understand how I would use it, whether or not it fits my style of shooting and needs, etc.
@darya150 SPP is no LR/PS/etc but I think it is useable, even if to do only initial adjustments and then continue working on the TIFFs using your preferred software. SPP is a free download from the Sigma software. If that is a big factor in your decision on whether or not to get the camera, which I agree it should be, you may want to download it to try it out for yourself. Not sure if there are any Sigma RAW files available for download anywhere but maybe someone in RFF that owns the dp2m would be kind enough to post them somewhere. It would still be useful to hear from any others who have used SPP more extensively to see what their long-term experience has been like.
d_ross
Registered User
Sigma photo pro is fine, it's maybe a little slow compared to other software, but I have no issue with it, just like the camera itself it's made for a certain type of photographer.
burancap
Veteran
Agreed.
I think a lot of the talk about "sluggishnesh" with the Merrills has to be weighed against the simple fact that we are dealing with 45-55mb files!
I find the Sigma SW fine. It will allow export to TIFF for further PP, if one should even find that necessary! The raw files are the cleanest that I have ever experienced.
d_ross
Registered User
Exactly! to me the Sigma raw files as a starting point are like working with a good film scan. But it can't be expressed strongly enough that this camera is for a certain type of photographer, and if you are that type you couldn't ask for a better camera!
Noticed B&H has the DP2 in stock. Unfortunately, I don't have time to buy one before going to Japan tomorrow. Hopefully one of you can snatch one up.
GaryLH
Veteran
Buy it in Japan....?
Have a fun trip..
Gary
Thanks. Got to see it in Osaka today. Bigger than I thought and the AF is slow, but overall, I liked it and will pick one up within the next month or so.
leicashot
Well-known
GaryLH
Veteran
Pulled the trigger already
Pulled the trigger already
My dp2m is suppose to arrive today.
Did it have the new firmware update that is suppose to help af performance?
Gary
Pulled the trigger already
My dp2m is suppose to arrive today.
Did it have the new firmware update that is suppose to help af performance?
Gary
btgc
Veteran
When people now call Merril model just a DP (instead of DPM), first DP series will become an original DP
burancap
Veteran
DP Classic?
noimmunity
scratch my niche
May I ask someone with the camera to report on the depth of the camera at its deepest dimension, which is to say where the lens is mounted. The published dimensions apparently do not include the lens protrusion. I'd like to know what the depth is from the back of the camera to the front extension of the lens. Thanks in advance!