SIGMA has just announced its second member of the fp Series of compact, modular, hybrid cameras, which is the L model. The Sigma fp L is armed with a full-frame 61MP sensor, which is the highest resolution presented by SIGMA. What’re the differences compared to the fp model? Read below.
35mm sensor size: Derived from Foveon technology
The new SIGMA fp L incorporates a new 35 mm full-frame Back-illuminated Bayer sensor with approx.61 effective megapixels. SIGMA emphasizes that this camera is “The highest resolution presented by SIGMA”. Also, according to SIGMA, this new sensor utilizes the technology implemented in the Foveon sensor as stated by SIGMA: “fp L is capable of creating images that are high-definition and rich in color, thanks to its ultra-high pixel count and SIGMA’s experience in developing cameras with a Foveon sensor, are renowned for both the exceptional resolving power and nuanced color gradients due to the unique nature of the X3 sensor”.
Enhanced AF
In addition to high-precision contrast AF, the SIGMA fp L features fast image area phase-detection AF. This hybrid AF allows users to enjoy smooth autofocus that is high-precision, fast, and excellent at tracking a moving subject, whether they are shooting stills or video.
fp L: Key features
- Full-frame 61MP BSI CMOS sensor: Up from the 24MP sensor of the original model, the higher-res sensor allows detail while still keeping an impressive dynamic range and sensitivity range. Its back-illuminated design also yields an especially clean image with low noise.
- Phase-detection and contrast-detection AF: Compared to the contrast-detection-only design of the original, the hybrid focusing system of the fp L proves to be faster, better for tracking moving subjects, and more precise in tricky lighting conditions.
- Body: Same exact body design as the original fp
- Continuous power via USB-C: The fp L lets you continuously power the camera via USB-C, which is perfect for time-lapse work, recording longer clips, or for working with the camera in a stationary position, like if using it as a webcam.
The highest resolution presented by SIGMA
SIGMA
Video capabilities: Supports 3 RAW file formats
The SIGMA fp series supports CinemaDNG external recording, as well as Blackmagic RAW and ProRes RAW output to external screen recorder over HDMI. Resolution: UHD 4K up to 30p, FHD 1080 up to 120p, CinemaDNG 8-bit recording. Also, DCI 4K at 24p Raw 12-bit recording externally (probably via Atomos – ProRes RAW), just like the fp model.
fp vs. fp L
There are two main differences between those two models:
- Sensor: fp L- 61MP BSI CMOS, 36 x 24mm; Bayer Array. fp – 24.6MP BSI CMOS, 35.9 x 23.9mm; Bayer Array
- Autofocus: fp L – Phase-detection and contrast-detection. fp – Contrast-detection only
Price and availability
The price of the SIGMA fp L is $2,500 compared to the fp model which costs $1,700 ($200 drop-in price after the L release). The camera can be preordered from the B&H website.
Initial thoughts
The SIGMA fp L shares many of the features of the fp model. Basically, the main differences are the AF and the pixels. The sensor is the same size. So generally speaking, you are paying almost twice for the megapixels. Otherwise, the camera is a different version of the same thing.
Do you really need so many amounts of megapixels? Do you think that it will affect your cinematography? Feel free to comment on that below.
