First Impressions: Sigma SD Quattro and 30mm f1.4 Art Kit:
It took a while but I was finally able to get a Sigma SD Quattro and 30mm f1.4 Art kit in for review. I’ve been looking forward to reviewing this camera because it will be my first Sigma camera that I’m reviewing, and there are quite a few quirks that I think make this camera particularly special. I’ve been using the SD Quattro for a while now, and let’s just say, it’s definitely surprising to me in many ways.
I’ll go into more detail in my review but I’m going to mention some of the things that aren’t necessarily in its favor. For one, it’s large for a mirrorless camera. Some of the electronics are also slow, and features like the EVF don’t feel up to par to its competition. But with all that said, I love using this camera.
↑ The SD Quattro is big for a mirrorless camera but it is very solid.
↑ Here’s the back of the camera. The menu is actually very easy to navigate through.
Now, I swear I’m not just trying to sell you all on the Sigma SD Quattro. Let me explain. First off, in my opinion, the main thing that the SD Quattro has going for it is the image quality. Saying that it is superb is an understatement. The files are insanely sharp, the clarity is insane, and the colors are so beautifully rendered. They are so true to life yet at the same time, so vivid and saturated. This may be some of the best image quality I’ve seen from an APS-C sensor.
↑ Here’s example of the build quality. Look at the battery door.
↑ As you can see, it’s rubber sealed for weather proofing.
Obviously, many of us don’t just want a camera that has one thing going for it. But here’s the funny thing: all those issues I mentioned above combined with the incredible image quality is what makes this camera actually extremely rewarding to use. The camera may be large for a mirrorless but at the same time, it’s built like a tank giving you the confidence that it can take some punishment. It’s also weather sealed and it’s quite comfortable to hold, at least in my hands. The SD Quattro may not be as fast as say my Fuji X-T2 but because of it, you have to take your time and plan your shot. When you get the shot you want, and you take it, it actually feels like you’re taking a real photo, not just a snapshot. Every shot starts to count which I feel is sometimes loss in some of today’s ultra fast systems. When you do get what you want, you will be blown away by the sheer quality of the photo.
↑ The SD Quattro produces extremely sharp images.
↑ The focusing can be slow but it still was able to lock on here while I was on a moving escalator.
↑ Again, the foveon sensor along with the 30mm f1.4 art lens produces images with plenty of bite and color.
I’ll admit that the SD Quattro is not for everyone. But for those who want something a little different than what’s out there these days, and want to be completely involved in the photographic process, this camera is a great option. In many ways, it reminds me so much of the Leica M9 or even a medium format camera. So far, I am having tons of fun with it. I absolutely LOVE the image quality :). Here are just a few examples, and expect my review shortly. I’ll also include 100% crops in my review just so all of you can see the quality of the files.
↑ Look at the colors here.
↑ Once more image demonstrating the sharpness. I will also include 100% crops in my review.
For those wanting more info you can check out the links below:
Hi Patrick,
I think this is up my alley regarding shooting style. I used some sigma art lenses before during my Canon days and the renderings I got from them was amazing. Now Sigma just needs to make the next version looks retro and operate like the Epson RD-1 then I’m in.
Dane
Hi Dane,
This camera is slow, and the electronics are not up to par to its competition but the image quality from this lens and sensor combo are incredible. Seriously, it is crazy good. The level of detail is amazing and so are the colors. I agree with the aesthetics: it’s definitely not my cup of tea :).
Best,
Patrick
Hello Patrick,
thanks for presenting the Sigma to us. I am a hughe fan of the foveon sensor and it is hard to understand why Sigma is not able to put it in a up do date camera. If i am correct they new line of cameras have interchangeable lenses at least 😉
Hey Dane,
a camera like the Epson RD-1 with the image quality of this Sigma would be a dream come true.
I own and love my Epson for what is is and the iq is remarkable given the time it came out. It has a special look that makes it desireable still today.
Hi Elderin,
As of now, I can see this as a second body to compliment another system. I just love the image quality but as you said, some of the stuff in the camera needs to be up to date with the competition. And yes, you are correct about their new line of cameras. This is actually one of them :).
Best,
Patrick
Hi Elderin,
It’s so cool that you still use your R-D1 and I agree about the IQ. I love the fact that you have to cock the shutter before you can take a photo. I think it uses the same sensor as the Nikon D100 which is my first DSLR back in 2002. I look back at my digital photos from 14 years ago and the IQ is superb even though its only 6mp.
Dane
Hahahaha, yes cocking the shutter is really fun Dane, like in the good old days. I dont know of any other digital camera that has that feature.
But in “burst mode” this means just about 0.7 images per second if you are very fast 😉