A new trend with APS-C sized sensors?

[xeliex]

After Sigma's release of the DP1, a compact body with an APS-C sized 14-megapixel Foveon sensor, do you think the compact industry is just about to change?

Will the other manufacturers incorporate larger sensors in their compacts?

[McQ]

Personally, I would like to see larger sensors in compact cameras. However, I also think that larger sensors are not as easy to use because they give more control over depth of field. I think we'll see a trend toward larger sensors with higher end compact models, but not not see this happening with mainstream or point-and-shoot models. Just like with the disposable film cameras of the day, these had such a small film area compared to 35 mm that many did not require autofocus (and instead had a fixed focus lens set to the hyperfocal distance)...making them truly simple to operate.

Just my own hugely speculative opinions on an ever-changing market though...

[Adrian]

I expect that some will buy this camera simply because they are taken in by the apparently high megapixel count without realizing that the sensor cannot be directly compared with other compacts in this simplistic way.

The reviews I have seen of this camera have not been at all favorable. It seems to be aimed at people seeking SLR picture quality but wanting compact convenience. However, if the reviews are to be believed it delivers neither, and allegedly has some serious drawbacks in relation to start up time and time taken copying to memory that will quickly become irritating.

That said, if a manufacturer gets the basics right, then I am sure there will be a strong market for photographers who seek quality, but who prefer at times only to carry around a pocket sized camera. I am one such person, who likes to have a point and shoot as part of my kit. It can provide access to photo opportunities and candid shots that would otherwise be missed.

[Adrian]

Since writing the above remarks,I have seen another review and also had the opportunity to have a play with this camera.

The latest review I saw, whilst still negative about price (in this sector) and speed of operation, regarded it as being by far an away the best compact available in terms of image quality.

I only had access to one for a couple of hours. I was impressed by its images of static subjects. At DSLR standards I thought. Not much good for action shots but in its area of specialism, pretty good.

[xeliex]

Adrian, it is great that you got your hands on one of those!

Yes, I've seen multiple reviews on that cam, and although it has many reported complaints, some are saying that the image quality surpases any compact and rivals DSLRs (minus the versatility of course).

I would be happy with a camera like that if only the fixed focal length was a bit more portrait friendly. But some rumors say that Sigma is releasing a DP2 and DP3 to complement their initial release.

I just think it's a brilliant idea to introduce such sensors in little packages.

I can't wait for other manufacurers to start doing the same.

Elie

[McQ]

I took a look at this partilcuar camera a little more. Do not believe the 14 megapixel marketing It has a native 4 megpixels foveon-style, so these are certainly the equivalent of more pixels in a bayer sensor...but no way is this 14 megapixels. I would say no more than 8 megapixels at the very most...maybe even a little less. That being said, the dynamic range does look really good.

If only it were an 8 megapixel foveon...THAT would be something people would be more likely to jump on. I do not see why the foveon sensors have not scaled past 3-4MP over the past 5 years...