Specifications

The TRUE II image-processing
engine joins the SD series.
The SD15 is the first in the SD
series to offer the TRUE (Three-
layer Responsive Ultimate Engine) II
image-processing engine. Developed
exclusively to operate in synergy
with the Foveon X3® direct image
sensor, TRUE II has been an extremely
popular feature since it was first
introduced on the Sigma DP2.
Based on Sigma's comprehensive
understanding of the image-creation
mechanism of the Foveon X3®
direct image sensor, TRUE II uses
a proprietary algorithm to help create
subtle and lifelike images. As a result,
the SD15 optimizes in-camera JPEG
production, dramatically enhancing
image quality and processing time.
TRUE II leverages the high-quality
light signal captured by the Foveon
X3® direct image sensor, applying
Sigma's image-processing expertise
to preserve the data under optimal
conditions. It processes images
quickly while maintaining their quality
and emotional feel, helping to make
the SD15 even more rewarding to use.
Featuring JPEG and
RAW image format modes
Using the JPEG setting allows
the SD15 to finish captured images
as JPEG files inside the camera
according to a specially developed
Sigma formula.
When these JPEG images match
the photographer's vision, JPEG
mode is an extremely powerful and
convenient feature of the SD15.
JPEG images are ready to print
when the SD15 is simply connected
to the printer, and the image data
files are ready to share with friends
and family. For ease of connectivity
and convenient sharing, JPEG mode
is an excellent choice.
Creating JPEG files in this way,
however, subjects data to irreversible
compression, leaving little scope for
image correction afterward. Using
a camera that offers only in-camera
JPEG processing can severely limit
a photographer's artistic expression.
In RAW mode, the Foveon X3®
direct image sensor outputs to .x3f
RAW image format files, preserving
the high-presence, high-quality,
accurate, and balanced data that
makes for truly emotional images
and opens up new creative channels.
Sigma believes that RAW mode
allows photographers the clearest
path to creative expression while
supporting the best image quality
and fostering the finest photographs.
The .x3f RAW data format for
highest-quality images
Sigma believes that a digital SLR
camera should empower the
photographer in two distinct stages:
during image creation and during
image processing. Photographers
should have all of the resources
necessary to recreate the ideal
image retained in the mind's eye.
For this reason, the SD15 offers
photographers the highest-quality
data that is ready for professional
finishing, broad in dynamic range
and rich in harmony and color.
For use in RAW mode in all of its
cameras, Sigma has developed the
.x3f format to capture the pure,
rich data that a true full-color sensor
has to offer.
Just as the best ingredients help
create a gourmet dish, the finest
data helps the photographer
express individual skill and vision.
RAW data in the .x3f format is what
photographers require to do the very
best work that only they can do.
SIGMA Photo Pro 4.0 offers
darkroom-style freedom and control
Believing it to be the very best RAW
data processing software available,
Sigma offers SIGMA Photo Pro 4.0.
With its intuitive and uncluttered
interface, the application offers
photographers exactly what they
need to give their photographs
a truly artistic and professional
finish. Even those new to raw data
processing will find it easy to use.
The Adjustment Controls Palette
contains exposure, contrast,
shadows, highlights, color saturation,
sharpness, and the X3 Fill Light
feature. A new noise reduction
control area allows for reduction of
both color noise and luminance noise.
The Color Wheel allows for easy
adjustment of photograph colors.
Using these controls, photographers
can easily process images to match
their original artistic vision — just
as though working in a classic
darkroom.
SIGMA Photo Pro 4.0 is a perfect
match to the .x3f format with its
superior dynamic range. Its advanced
tools enable artistic expression
and the limitless enjoyment that
photography has to offer.
Highest-quality components for masterpiece photographs
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