Η ΓΝΩΣΗ ΤΗΣ ΣΤΟ ΣΧΟΛΕΙΟ ΚΑΙ ΠΕΡΑ ΑΠΟ ΑΥΤΟ
Chinese robotics company Zhongqing Robotics (aka EngineAI) just front-flipped into the humanoid robotics scene. The firm has posted a video of what is claimed to be the world's first humanoid robot front flip.
Category: AI & Humanoids, Technology
Tags: Agility Robotics, Boston Dynamics, Robotics, Figure, Humanoid
Sigma announced its BF mirrorless camera today, with a "purposefully minimal" design that "cuts out everything that distracts, limits or stifles creativity." The "radical" simplicity is obvious looking at it – it only has five buttons, including the power and shutter release, and a dial.
The biggest concession to minimalism, though, may be what the BF lacks. It's not the first camera to omit a viewfinder or mechanical shutter, but it is one of the only modern cameras we've seen without a slot for a storage card of any kind, be it SD, CFexpress or something more exotic. As far as we can tell, the camera will only record to its 230GB of internal memory, which you can access via its admittedly quite fast 10Gbps USB-C port – the only port on the camera, by the way.
It almost goes without saying that this is a very unusual decision. There are obvious benefits to a camera having internal storage – most photographers have had the experience of going to take a picture only to realize they've left their SD card at home. That's why it's not surprising that a few other photographer-focused cameras, such as the Leica M11 and Ricoh GR III, have it. However, its inclusion (almost) never comes at the cost of the ability to use external storage.
The BF is undeniably small. Maybe there was just no room for a card slot?
Image: Sigma
The company hasn't said much about why it decided to forego a card slot on the BF, though we have reached out for comment. There's an argument to be made that it helps achieve the company's ultra-simplistic vision; with the BF, you won't have to worry about remembering your SD card or making sure that it's fast enough to record 6K video. And while SD card slots aren't small, it's possible excluding one made it easier to make the camera as compact as it is. Cynically, it also gives people something to talk about, generating extra buzz around a major launch. In a market full of 24MP full-frame cameras around $2,000, this is just one more thing that sets the BF apart.
There are some downsides, though, beyond just the lack of flexibility. If you want to offload images to your computer but don't have a USB-C lead, you'll be out of luck. The same goes for if you're planning a mammoth shooting session that will generate more than the 14,000 JPEGs, 4300 uncompressed DNG Raws or 2.5 hours of video that Sigma says the internal storage is good for.
Perhaps the most concerning point, though, is repairability. Flash storage has a limited number of write cycles before it starts to fail. While you almost certainly won't hit that limit anytime soon – good flash chips can have hundreds or even thousands of terabytes written to them before starting to have issues – there are myriad ways it can break even before that happens. If this happens to your SD card, it's not a huge deal; you can just get another one. That's not the case for internal storage, though, especially if it's soldered to the camera's mainboard. Fixing it when it breaks could require sending the camera to Sigma, which could take time.
We'd like to hear what you think, though. Is internal storage enough, or is the lack of a card slot more foolish than beautiful? Sound off in the comments below.
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Buy at B&H PhotoCrop fertilizers are a major source of pollution, as the chemicals make their way out of the soil and into the natural environment. Scientists are now working on a possible solution to that problem, by developing a sustained-release fertilizer that takes the form of tiny glass beads.
Category: Science
Tags: Agriculture, Crops, Plants, Glass, University of Sao Paulo
Sigma's new logo and word mark shows up on its latest products and on its pop-up store in Manhattan.
Image: Sigma
Sigma has had a busy day. It's unveiled a new visual identity for its brand, alongside announcements of a new mirrorless camera with a striking design that feels like it came from Jony Ive or Teenage Engineering, a refresh of its I-series primes, a flagship sports/wildlife telephoto lens and a do-it-all APS-C lens.
Its new wordmark, aka the way it writes its name, now uses a seriffed font, which wouldn't look out of place atop a newspaper of record or on the tag for a piece of designer clothing. The previous style, which you'll find printed on the company's lenses, used a modern-style sans serif font. The company says this new style "will be gradually introduced across Sigma’s products, website, social media and product packaging." The new wordmark already shows up on its website and all the new products the company released today.
Images: SigmaSigma is also updating its symbol, giving it a "contemporary update." The company says its new way of writing the Greek letter sigma – used in math to notate a summation – is meant to symbolize "the guiding idea behind our manufacturing philosophy: every single product is the sum of the technology, experience, passion and expertise of everyone involved in its creation."
The new look comes alongside a push to emphasize the fact that the company's products are made in-house in Japan, a fact it highlighted in a recent video showing off its production process of a 24-70mm F2.8 lens.
Alongside the new look, Sigma announced a new "Art Projects" initiative, where it will "collaborate with artists to produce and share their work." The first two artists involved in the program are Sølve Sundsbø and Julia Hetta, and the company's site now features pages showing off the two's work.
Press release:
Sigma Announces New Visual Identity & New Art Projects InitiativeOn February 24, 2025, Sigma Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki) will adopt a new visual identity for its products and brand.
Since Sigma’s founding in 1961, we have continued to innovate and push the standards of optical engineering out of a deep respect for the creative ways photographers and filmmakers engage with the world. With our new visual identity, we refocus on the essence of our manufacturing philosophy and communicate our desire to provide outstanding products and services to our customers.
The way cameras and photography relate to our lives is constantly changing, as the industry undergoes constant evolution and occasional revolutionary leaps. At the same time, the fundamental desire at the heart of photography – to capture and share moments – remains unchanged. Our new visual identity reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting this pursuit through exceptional craftsmanship and creativity.
Wordmark & Symbol
The most striking changes concern Sigma’s wordmark and symbol.
The new symbol is a contemporary update of the symbol that has been in use since Sigma’s founding. Based on the Greek letter Σ, it reflects the name of our company and symbolizes the guiding idea behind our manufacturing philosophy: every single product is the sum of the technology, experience, passion and expertise of everyone involved in its creation. Our new visual identity will be gradually introduced across Sigma’s products, website, social media and product packaging.
Sigma Aizu Japan
Sigma’s production is entirely based in Japan, with every lens, camera and other product manufactured at Sigma’s factory in Aizu and our supply chain concentrated in the Tohoku region. Our commitment to keeping everything local has resulted in the unique levels of craftsmanship, know-how and technology that define our products today.
In our future brand communication, we will place more emphasis on the origin of our exceptional quality: Made in Aizu, Japan.
Art Projects and Deeper Commitment to the Arts
As a camera and lens manufacturer, we have always been deeply motivated by the art of photography. We are inspired by the passion of photographers and filmmakers everywhere and hope that our relentless pursuit of quality and innovation will help artists realize their visions.
Supporting the photographic and visual arts is a core tenet of our corporate mission. In addition to our ongoing sponsorships and partnerships with numerous festivals and cultural events, as well as maintaining, growing, and exhibiting our library of photobooks, we will continue to expand and deepen our support of the arts through several new endeavors.
With the launch of our new visual identity, we are introducing Art Projects, a new initiative in which we will collaborate with artists to produce and share their work.
The first artists to work with us are Sølve Sundsbø and Julia Hetta.
For more details and further updates on the Art Projects, please visit https://www.sigma-global.com/en/art-projects
Sigma had a big day yesterday, announcing multiple new lenses and a bold new camera. The Sigma BF takes a new approach to mirrorless cameras, simplifying things to only the essentials. On top of that, it also revealed the do-it-all APS-C 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 lens, powerful 300-600mm F4 lens for wildlife and sports and nine restyled I-series prime lenses.
Following yesterday’s announcements, we’re inviting you to participate in the discussion in our forums. We’re also collecting your feedback and questions for our editors. They are on the ground in Japan and will be getting their hands on Sigma’s new gear. As a result, they will be able to answer some of your inquiries this week.
Those interested in discussing the Sigma BF can visit the discussion thread dedicated to the new camera. Or, if you are intrigued by Sigma’s new 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 and 300-600mm F4 lenses, head over to the discussion thread here.
Though China's InMotion does roll out crazy powerful electric unicycles for adventure-hungry risk-takers, the company has models to suit every rider level. The V9 is currently unique though, and is pitched as the first e-uni in the world to be safety certified by TÜV Rheinland.
Category: Urban Transport, Transport
Tags: Unicycle, Electric Vehicles, Safety
The Marrangaroo tiny house has been created to allow a small family to live off-the-grid in comfort. Measuring just 8.4 m (27.6 ft) in length, it features a well-designed interior layout that maximizes the limited space available.
Category: Tiny Houses, Lifestyle
Tags: Building and Construction, House, Home, Tiny Footprint, Micro-House
Last week, the US Space Force posted a photo online from its uncrewed X-37B space plane's seventh mission, showing the orbital test vehicle above our planet in High Earth Orbit. Now that's a selfie worth sharing.
Tags: Kennedy Space Center, SpaceX, Boeing, X-37B
Transplanting insulin-producing cells along with engineered blood-vessel-forming cells has successfully reversed type 1 diabetes, according to a new preclinical study. With further testing, the novel approach could one day cure the as-yet incurable condition.
Category: Diabetes, Illnesses and conditions, Body & Mind
Tags: Type 1 diabetes, Transplant, Genetic engineering, Weill Cornell Medicine
Grind Hard Plumbing Co is back with another absolutely absurd project (and I mean that with great fondness): A Humvee trike with a ride-in tractor wheel in the front.
Category: Automotive, Transport
Sigma has revealed the BF, a radically minimalist 24MP full-frame L-mount mirrorless camera.
It's a compact mirrorless body with a single rear-plate dial and three buttons that haptic feedback when pressed. Sigma says the interface has been designed to be simple and intuitive. Other than these three rear buttons, the camera has shutter and power buttons.
It becomes Sigma's first camera to offer phase-detection autofocus, which is combined with a subject recognition system designed to detect humans, dogs and cats.
The BF has 230GB of internal memory instead of any removable media cards and uses the USB slot to transfer data off the camera. Sigma says this is sufficient for 14,000 JPEGs, 4300 uncompressed DNG Raws or 2.5 hours of video shot in its highest quality settings.
The body is milled from a single block of aluminum, which Sigma says is a first (though this may include caveats in the smallprint as both Leica and Hasselblad have made similar claims in the past). It weighs just 388g (13.7oz) without battery.
However, the camera has no mechanical shutter, which means it risks exhibiting rolling shutter when used to shoot fast-moving subjects. There's also no stabilization.
The BF is a small rectangular body with a texture cut into the front surface to provide grip. A small settings display to the right of the fixed live view display displays either the ISO, shutter speed or aperture value, so that the main composition panel doesn't have to have camera settings intruding on the view.
In addition to stills, the BF can capture 6K video at up to 30p, or 4K footage derviced from 6K capture. This can be in H.264 or H.265 and has the option to use Leica's L-Log response curve for preserving flexibility for making tone and color adjustments in post.
There are no ports on the camera, other than a single, exposed USB-C socket on the side of the body.
The Sigma BF will be available in a choice of black or silver, with the black version retailing for around $2000. Silver versions of Sigma's i-series primes will be available in L-mount, to match the camera.
{PressRelease}
Announcing the “Radically Simple” Sigma BF cameraRonkonkoma, New York - SIGMA Corporation of America, the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki. Headquarters: Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan) is pleased to announce the Sigma BF, a 24-megapixel full-frame L-Mount camera. The Sigma BF presents an uncompromising new vision for the digital camera. Stripped to the essence but packed with power, innovative yet rooted in the origins of photography, it is designed to accompany you throughout your day and to capture the spontaneous beauty of everyday life. The BF balances performance with simplicity and returns the focus to what matters most: your photographs. The Sigma BF will retail for $1,999 and be available in April 2025.
A radically simple camera that evokes the essence of photographyStaying close to the photographer, the Sigma BF captures the beauty that lies hidden in everyday life, and becomes the catalyst to be aware of that beauty.
The BF focuses on the joy of photography that only a camera as a tool can provide. By simplifying and stripping away all excess elements, this full-frame mirrorless camera redefines the process of taking a photograph as a natural act.
The unique user interface, which provides a new sense of connection between the photographer and the camera in a true seamless unibody, is more intuitive than ever with its pressure-sensitive haptic buttons and dial. The high-definition expression of the approximately 24-megapixel full-frame sensor and the reliable dual autofocus system bring your vision to life.
The user interface has a completely new information structure compared to conventional digital cameras, with the main shooting-related settings stored on the live view screen, secondary settings in the optional menu, and management functions and detailed settings in the system menu. Users can easily operate the shutter speed, aperture, ISO sensitivity, EV compensation and color mode, along with other important shooting-related elements at the touch of a finger. Combined with the auto setting, the functions of the general shooting mode dial are also covered.
Clear live view and status monitorThe default live view screen displays only the minimum necessary information and can be changed to display no information at all. Since the currently active setting is displayed on the status monitor, the users can concentrate solely on composition and the subject on the live view screen.
Minimal controls and hapticsAll controls are integrated into just three buttons, one dial, the shutter release, and the power button. The BF is the first mirrorless camera* to incorporate haptics into its Dial, Center button, Option button, and Playback button, resulting in minimal physical wear. The buttons are always accurate and comfortable to press. * As of February 2025, by Sigma.
Unibody structureThe BF is the first camera in history* to feature a true unibody, which boasts unprecedented rigidity. Each camera is carved from a single, solid block of aluminum over the course of seven hours. The reliable, comfortable weight of its seamless all-metal body harmonizes perfectly with any attached lens.
* As of February 2025, by Sigma.
The BF features 230 GB of internal memory, capable of storing more than 14,000 JPEG files, 4,300 uncompressed RAW images or 2.5 hours of video at the highest-quality setting, with the USB-C port offering fast charging and data-transfer speeds.
Various color modesThirteen different color modes are available to open up new avenues of creativity. The modes range from unique options like Teal and Orange, Powder Blue, and Warm Gold to creative yet versatile options such as Rich, and Calm.
Evolved autofocusA hybrid autofocus system combining image phase detection and contrast detection utilizes state-of-the-art algorithms to capture subjects accurately and reliably. In addition to people, dogs and cats can be detected in the subject detection mode.
Video shooting (6K, L-Log)The BF supports high-resolution 6K and L-Log recording, enabling video production that takes advantage of the wide dynamic range of a full-frame sensor.
Equipped with L-MountThe L-Mount lens mount allows the camera to be used with a wide variety of interchangeable lenses for mirrorless cameras from Sigma as well as other L-Mount Alliance partners.
{/PressRelease}
Sigma BF specifications PriceMSRP$2000 (Black version)Body typeBody typeRangefinder-style mirrorlessBody materialAluminumSensorEffective pixels25 megapixelsSensor photo detectors25 megapixelsSensor sizeFull frame (36 x 24 mm)ImageUncompressed formatRAWScreen / viewfinderArticulated LCDFixedScreen size3.2″Screen dots2,100,000Touch screenYesLive viewYesViewfinder typeNoneStorageStorage typesInternal onlyStorage included230GBConnectivityUSB USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 GBit/sec)USB chargingYesMicrophone portNoHeadphone portNoPhysicalDimensions130 x 73 x 37 mm (5.12 x 2.87 x 1.46″)Sigma has announced the 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS Contemporary lens, a wide-angle to telephoto, image-stabilized zoom for APS-C cameras that provides a 24-450mm equivalent focal length. Sigma claims it's the longest zoom ratio available in an APS-C lens and that it will be ideal for applications ranging from landscape to sports photography. It will be available in L-mount, E-mount, X-mount and RF-mount.
Optically, the lens comprises 20 elements in 14 groups and includes 1 FLD, 4 SLD and 4 aspherical elements. It contains one high refractive index glass element, which Sigma says has "significant thickness variation."
The lens has a close focusing distance of 17cm (6.7") at its widest angle and 105mm (41.4") at the telephoto end. The maximum magnification of 1:2 occurs at 70mm and is 1:3 at 16mm, and 1:4 at 300mm. The front element includes a water and oil-repellent coating. According to Sigma, the lens is designed to suppress focus breathing, making it useful for video work and applications like focus stacking.
Sigma says the autofocus is driven by its high-response linear actuator motor to provide fast and smooth autofocus. Image stabilization is rated at 6 stops at the wide, and 4.5 stops at the telephoto setting. A zoom lock switch is included to prevent lens creep when mounted on a camera.
Physically, the lens is 73.8mm (2.9") in diameter and 121.4mm (4.8") long and includes threads for a 67mm filter. It weighs in at 615g (1.4 lbs). Sigma rates it as dust and splash-resistant.
The Sigma 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS Contemporary has a retail price of $700 and will be available beginning April 17.
Sigma presents the world's first mirrorless lens with an approximate zoom ratio of 18.8x. Powerful yet portable, the 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary delivers outstanding results in any situation.Ronkonkoma, New York - SIGMA Corporation of America, the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki. Headquarters: Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan) is pleased to announce the 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary lens for the US market. the Sigma 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary features an 18.8x zoom ratio, the world’s largest*1 for an APS-C format mirrorless lens. Equivalent to 24-450mm in 35mm format, this portable lens covers everything from wide-angle for landscapes and interiors to super-telephoto for sports, wildlife and aviation. This extremely versatile lens brings the full range of photographic subjects within reach, from landscapes and portraits to wildlife and sports photography. The lens is available in L-Mount, Sony E-Mount, Fujifilm X Mount and Canon RF Mount and will retail for $699 through authorized US retailers.
Sigma presents the world's first*1 mirrorless lens with an approximate zoom ratio of 18.8x. Powerful yet portable, the 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary delivers outstanding results in any situation.The all-new Sigma 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary features an 18.8x zoom ratio, the world’s largest*1 for an APS-C format mirrorless lens. Covering the entire range from wide-angle to super-telephoto, this extremely versatile lens brings the full range of photographic subjects within reach, from landscapes and portraits to wildlife and sports photography.
With a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2, the 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary captures detailed close-ups with ease. Its HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) motor provides exceptionally fast, smooth and accurate autofocus - ideal for fast-moving subjects such as birds and aircraft. The lens offers 6 stops of image stabilization at the wide end and 4.5 stops*2 at the telephoto end, helping photographers achieve blur-free results even at longer focal lengths and in low light.
This ultra versatile all-in-one zoom is the perfect tool for creative photographers who want to work in a wide range of photographic genres.
*1 As an AF compatible interchangeable lens exclusively for mirrorless, as of February, 2025 by Sigma.
*2 Based on CIPA guidelines. (Measured at a focal length of 16mm and 300mm using an APS-C camera)
The Sigma 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary is the world's first mirrorless lens with an 18.8x zoom ratio. Equivalent to 24-450mm* in 35mm format, this portable lens covers everything from wide-angle for landscapes and interiors to super-telephoto for sports, wildlife and aviation.
* Approximately 25.6-480mm for the Canon RF Mount version.
With a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2 at 70mm, the Sigma 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary provides excellent close-up performance, perfect for capturing flowers, insects and other small subjects in great detail. With a maximum magnification of 1:3 at the wide end and 1:4 at the telephoto end, photographers have access to a huge range of creative expression.
Small, lightweight and portableDespite its impressive zoom range of 16-300mm, the Sigma 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary prioritizes high portability, measuring just 73.8mm in diameter by 121.4mm in length and weighing just 615g*. This is achieved through advanced mechanical and optical design, including a high refractive index glass element with significant thickness variation and an aspherical lens element.
* The figures are for the L-Mount version.
To help photographers capture even the most fleeting moments, the Sigma 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary uses a High-response Linear Actuator (HLA) to achieve high-speed autofocus functionality with excellent drive accuracy.
Outstanding optical stabilization powered by the OS2 algorithmInspired by the same technology that powers Sigma's super-telephoto lenses used by professional wildlife and sports photographers, the Sigma 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary features 6 stops of optical stabilization at the wide end and 4.5 stops at the telephoto end. The latest OS2 optical stabilization algorithm provides superior image stabilization to mitigate the effects of camera shake, helping photographers achieve blur-free results without the need for a tripod, even when shooting in low light and at full zoom.
* Measured using an APS-C camera at focal lengths of 16mm and 300mm according to CIPA standards.
Equipped with a zoom lock switch at the wide endThe Sigma 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary features a zoom lock switch that can be fixed at the wide end to prevent the lens from extending.
Dust- and splash-resistant structure* and water-repellent coatingDesigned to help photographers work in all environments, the Sigma 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary features a dust- and splash-resistant structure for use in harsh conditions. In addition, the front element features a water- and oil-repellent coating that helps keep the lens free of contaminants.
* The structure is designed to be dust- and splash-resistant, but not waterproof. Be careful not to bring the lens in contact with a large amount of water. Water inside the lens may cause major damage and even render the lens unrepairable.
Uncompromising optical quality that redefines the standard for super-zoom performance Consistently high image quality across the entire zoom rangeThanks to its advanced optical design with 1 FLD, 4 SLD and 4 aspherical elements, the lens has excellent aberration correction and delivers sharp results throughout the whole zoom and focus range.
Engineered to minimize flare and ghostingBy measuring light incidence under all conditions and using advanced simulation technology, the Sigma 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary guarantees superior resistance to flare and ghosting, allowing photographers to capture crisp, clear images in even the most challenging lighting conditions - just as an all-in-one lens should.
Suppressed focus breathing for consistent framingThe Sigma 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary is designed to effectively suppress focus breathing, making it a perfect choice for filmmakers as well as photographers working with multi-shot techniques such as focus stacking. Throughout the zoom range, changes in angle of view are kept to an absolute minimum when changing focus.
Sigma 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS specifications Principal specificationsLens typeZoom lensMax Format sizeAPS-C / DXFocal length16–300 mmImage stabilizationYesLens mountCanon RF-S, Fujifilm X, L-Mount, Sony EApertureMaximum apertureF3.5–6.7Minimum apertureF22–45Number of diaphragm blades9OpticsElements20Groups14Special elements / coatings1 FLD, 4 SLD, 4 asphericFocusMinimum focus0.17 m (6.69″)Maximum magnification0.5×AutofocusYesMotor typeLinear MotorFocus methodInternalDistance scaleNoDoF scaleNoPhysicalWeight615 g (1.36 lb)Diameter74 mm (2.91″)Length121 mm (4.76″)Filter thread67 mmHood suppliedYesHood product codeLH706-03Sigma has announced the 300-600mm F4 DG OS Sports lens, designed specifically for applications like sports, action and wildlife photography.
Optically, the lens is built around 28 elements in 21 groups. It includes 6 FLD and 1 SLD element, anomalous dispersion glass, high refractive index glass, and a water and oil-repellent front coating. It's designed to provide a high level of correction for chromatic aberration throughout the entire zoom range. Sigma claims the new zoom will deliver the same optical performance as a prime lens.
Autofocus is driven by a high-thrust HLA (high-response linear actuator) motor that drives a lightweight lens focus group located close to the camera body for good balance and fast and precise AF performance.
The image stabilization system provides 5.5 stops of stabilization at 600mm. It includes two stabilization modes: Mode 2 is designed to be widely used for most still and video applications and Mode 2 is designed specifically for panning shots in the horizontal, vertical or diagonal directions.
The lens barrel is constructed from magnesium alloy, and the lens hood is made of carbon to deliver a sturdy but lightweight design. It's painted with thermal insulation paint to reduce heat absorption. The inner zoom mechanism is designed to minimize center of gravity fluctuations throughout the entire zoom range.
The lens also includes a newly added function ring that offers two modes. With the Focus Preset Mode, twisting the ring right or left will instantly shift to a pre-registered focus position. The Power Focus Mode is intended to make it easier to focus the lens at a constant speed for applications like video and supports two steps; focus speed can be changed in two steps, depending on how far the ring is turned.
Other controls include four AFL buttons, a focus mode switch, a focus limiter and OS mode switch and a custom mode switch. The L-mount version is also compatible with teleconverters.
There is a drop-in holder for 40.5mm filters. According to Sigma, it has developed a new drop-in circular polarizer and a variable ND filter with 7 stops of adjustment to use with the lens. Sigma says the lens is dust and splash-resistant.
The lens is 167mm (6.6") in diameter by 467.9mm (18.4") long. It weighs 3,985g (8.79lbs)
The Sigma 300-600mm F4 DG OS Sports lens will be available from April 2025 at a retail price of $6000.
The Sigma 45mm F2.8 DG Contemporary, showing Sigma's new typeface.
Rendering: Sigma
Sigma's I-series prime lenses will become the first to adopt the company's revised logo and branding, with updated versions of all nine lenses losing the 'DN' designation from their names.
All nine lenses retain their original optical formulae and change only in their external appearance. The exception to this rule is the original 45mm F2.8 DG Contemporary, which has now been made compatible with the magnetic lens caps used across the rest of the series.
Silver versions of the I-series lenses will also be available, to match the silver version of Sigma's new BF mirrorless camera. Prices for all nine lenses remain unchanged.
New designation for Sigma's I-series lenses: US MSRP:$599
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Sigma CEO Kazuto Yamaki
Photo: Richard Butler
We're at Sigma's pre-CP+ event at its headquarters in the suburbs of Tokyo. CEO Kazuto Yamaki is talking and we'll be reporting live on what he reveals.
About the companyHe says they've been working hard to provide "the best of the best." But, since he took over the company on 2012, the image quality of smartphones has increased and "the importance of the dedicated camera is gradually being questioned."
This caused him concern, he says. But he found himself encouraged when he went back to the founding ethos of his father: "technological innovation is an art in itself."
He says the company will focus on "technology, craftsmanship and art." To reflect this, the company is introducing a new look and new logo, with the tag-line: "The art of engineering, engineering for art."
As part of this, Yamaki says the company is establishing the Sigma Foundation that will promote the art of photography. The foundation's first actions will be to publish photo books by two photographers: Sølve Sundsbø and Julia Hetta.
But, he says the company's focus will remain the same: "to develop, manufacture and deliver the very best products to our customers."
"Since 1973 we have been making all our products in Aizu, Japan," he says, "and we remain committed to the people and the community of Aizu."
Two new lenses:Sigma CEO Kazuto Yamaki reveals the 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS lens for APS-C mirrorless.
Photo: Dale Baskin
The first lens is the 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS, an 18.8x zoom lens for APS-C, as part of its Contemporary range of lenses.
He describes the design as compact and lightweight, with a diameter of 73.8mm and a length of 121.4mm. It weighs 615g (L-mount). The lens is ideal for travel, landscape, street and family photos, where flexibility is important, he says.
The autofocus is driven by the company's HLA linear motor and the optical stabilization can deliver 6.0 stops of shake compensation at the wide end.
It can deliver a 1:2 magnification ratio at 70mm. It will be available for L-mount, Sony E-mount, Fujifilm X-mount and Canon RF-mount. It will cost $699 and be available in April.
The second lens is a Sigma 300-600mm F4 DG OS Contemporary. The World's first zoom to reach 600mm with a maximum aperture of F4.
He says they aimed to make it compact and lightweight enough for handheld use. It weighs around 4Kg and is 467.9mm long. It has a diameter of 167mm.
The optical stabilization is able to deliver 5.5EV of correction. It has 28 elements in 21 groups include six FLD elements and one SLD element. The lens has a switch to change stabilization modes, for when you're panning.
The lens is an internal zoom design, minimizing shifts in the center of gravity. It can take internal filters. It will be available for both L-mount and E-mount. It will cost $5999, and is also available in April.
New camera: Sigma BF Photo: Dale Baskin"Smartphones are now the most used camera in the world," says Yamaki: "the very raison d'etre of dedicated question is brought into question."
While situations like sports and wildlife photography still require a dedicated camera, it's less obvious whether a dedicated camera is needed for day-to-day photography. "We believe it is," he says.
Modern digital cameras are not compatible with frequent day-to-day use. We wanted to create a camera that was small, simple and well-suited to everyday use.
"An everyday system camera for creative minds."
L-mount camera with 24MP CMOS sensor. He says the design concept is one of "radical simplicity."
He highlights three features: Unibody construction, Single-finger interface and Dual Layer menu system.
The body is a unibody/monocoque construction. It takes over seven hours to mill the camera from a single ingot. On one side there is a strap lug, on the other a USB 3.2 10Gbps port. Beyond this, just a tripod socket and battery compartment.
There is no memory card slot. Instead. 230GB of internal memory. This allows storage of up to 14,000 JPEGs, 4300 DNG Raws and over 2.5 hours of video at the highest bit-rate.
Single-finger interface: Photo: Dale BaskinHe suggests the complexity of modern camera interfaces stems from them being based on film camera operation. He says they've simplified everything to allow everything other than the shutter button to be operated with your thumb. The buttons on the back use piezoelectric actuators to provide haptic feedback as you operate it.
The BF costs $1999 and will be available in April. We're told we'll be able to get our hands on a working sample shortly.
He points out that many menus have a great many options and can require a lot of exploring and button pressing. On the BF they have simplified all the options into two menu screens: the main menu screen with all the key shooting parameters: aperture, shutter speed, ISO, exposure comp and color modes. At the top of the screen: aspect ratio, AF mode and white balance.
Separately, there is a second screen with settings you change less often are grouped in a Options menu. More complex settings are stored one layer deeper, in a more conventional menu structure.
He acknowledges it may take some time to learn this new system, especially if you already know how to use another camera, but in time he says you will learn to enjoy the BF. "This is the easiest camera to use," he says.
The BF includes two new color modes, in addition to the ones on the existing fp and fpL models. These are Calm and Rich modes, one of which is subtle, the other quite bold.
"The BF is chiefly a photo camera but it can shoot video," Yamaki says. It can shoot up to 6K/30 in H.264, H.265 and Leica L-Log formats.
The BF will be available in black or silver, with silver versions of the I-series primes available in L-mount, to match. The BF weighs 388g (without battery).
It features a hybrid AF system combining phase detection and contrast detection.
Following the tragic partial collapse of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge in early 2024 due to a container ship collision, a new plan has been put in place to build its replacement. Maryland governor Wes Moore has now revealed its design.
Category: Architecture, Lifestyle
Tags: Building and Construction, Bridge
If a robot is being used to gather data in sensitive aquatic environments, it shouldn't have a whirring propeller that could harm wildlife or get caught in weeds. A new bot addresses that issue by utilizing a swimming mechanism inspired by flatworms.
Category: Robotics, Technology
Tags: EPFL, Biomimicry, locomotion
Mobile tech company Huawei launched the world's first tri-fold smartphone in September 2024, but it was only available in China. Now the company has announced the global launch of the Mate XT, though you might still have a search on your hands to find one.
Category: Mobile Technology, Consumer Tech, Technology
Tags: Huawei, smartphones, Folding
Teledyne FLIR Defense's Black Hornet 4 nano-drone has won the US Department of Defense's Blue UAS Refresh award. That may not mean much to the average person, but it does give us an excuse to talk about the palm-size infantry recon helicopter.
Category: Military, Technology
Tags: Department of Defense, drones
The theme for our February Editors' photo challenge was 'Winter Games', and we asked you to show us the coolest winter fun through your lens.
As usual, DPReview photographers iced it! We got snowed under with amazing entries, making judging an absolute blizzard of a task. Our top picks on the following pages are presented in random order.
Want to participate in some other photo challenges? Visit our Challenges page to see currently open or upcoming challenges or to vote in a recently closed challenge.
Harris Hill, VTPhotographer: jshepka
Description: With its 100th anniversary, Harris Hill in Brattleboro, Vermont, is one of the oldest ski jump hills in the US. It is a FIS-approved 90-meter hill that has been around since 1922. This image is a view of a jumper passing in front of the judge's tower on the way down!
Equipment: Canon EOS 70D + Canon EF 16-35mm F4L IS USM
New Year's Day polar bear swimPhotographer: Lensmate
Description: Polar Bear Swims are a New Year's Day tradition. Hundreds of adults, teenagers and families with children attend the event to race and swim in the chilly winter waters. This freezing winter plunge activity takes place all over the world.
Equipment: DJI Mini 3 Pro
Winter bikePhotographer: BernhardK
Description: Not enough snow for skiing, but perfect for mountain biking. Provided you have heated socks. We climbed 700 m in deep winter conditions. We made our first tracks in the snow on the deeply snow-covered slopes of the Alps.
Equipment: Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III + Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 45mm F1.8
Family skating in snowfall at outdoor rinkPhotographer: Hooyat
Description: At the winter festival, there were activities and games for everyone. People watched an ice sculpting competition, tried out snowshoes, and children played in a gigantic snow playground. Snow or shine, people immersed themselves in the festival. On our way to the sledding and tubing hill, we met a family on an ice skating rink. They had much fun skating, oblivious to the heavy snowfall. I took this shot, and it was my favorite of the day. I am happy to report that my camera survived the snow, ice, cold, and rough weather; the camera still works and still makes great memories to this day.
Equipment: Nikon Z6 II + Nikon Nikkor Z 24-70mm F4 S
Ryland BellPhotographer: owenleve
Description: Professional snowboarder Ryland Bell on location with Warren Miller Entertainment. This was shot in the Chugach Mountains with Points North Heli-Adventures, a heli-ski operation based out of Cordova, AK. This is a seldom-ridden line as conditions have to line up just perfectly.
Equipment: Nikon D800
Take offPhotographer: mmkarb
Description: Heliskiing was a bucket item I thought I'd never get a chance to experience, but I got an opportunity in 2019 and couldn't pass it up. It allowed the group to experience amazing skiing and breathtaking views. One of my favorite views came together with the helicopter dropping us off at the top of the mountain and being able to take in the entire view.
Equipment: GoPro Hero5 Black
A walk in the parkPhotographer: rshoub
Description: This is a view of Humber Bay Park, as seen from our Toronto apartment. A gentle snowfall had done some extra cake decorating overnight by powdering the trees with a delicate, sugary frosting. For me, the days of hip-shattering ice rinks and arduous ski and hiking trails are behind me. I’m 80. Nevertheless, I still participate in the winter games by enjoying an unhurried walk through this serene yet exhilarating landscape. After I took this shot, I switched the camera for Nordic walking poles and, with my wife of 55 years, followed the same trail as the couple you see in this picture. And, like the lamp they will soon pass under, ours still shines bright.
Equipment: Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III
Aletch Glacier, SwitzerlandPhotographer: mattalatta
Description: The genera of Adventure Photography can be quite challenging. One has to have the stamina to manage the trip while expending extra energy to carry camera gear and capture photographs. This often requires anticipating shots, running ahead and photographing as your partners move through your frame. In this photo, safety was a primary concern as we skied along a crevassed glacier with seracs hanging above us. I was in the back, waiting for my friends to create a leading line to the peak framed in the picture. Moving quickly through this section of the glacier was important, so I only had a moment to capture the frame.
Equipment: Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II + Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm F4.0 IS Pro
The huntsman and the houndsPhotographer: ebaphoto
Description: I had the chance to photograph an organized hunt club where mounted riders follow a pack of hounds as they chase wild fox. The huntsman maintains control of the hounds, and no harm comes to the fox when these chases occur. The fox runs through the country cunningly evading the hounds until they eventually lose his scent, the fox “goes to ground” in his den, or the fox goes onto public or private land where the club does not already have permission to be. I rode with a "car follower" who showed me the places where I would most likely get good images.
Equipment: Nikon D90 + Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G VR
Eerie artPhotographer: TheColdDark
Description: This is a local ice art competition in Fairbanks, Alaska. International teams arrive to carve the ice blocks. The blocks are transported from a local lake and brought to the site to be sculptured. This is the beginning of one team working on their multi-block piece. I'm not sure they even noticed I was grabbing the shot. Multi-block judging occurs four days after they begin.
Equipment: Canon EOS R6 Mark II + Canon RF 35mm F1.4 L VCM
Friendly polar bearPhotographer: JannisN
Description: We encountered this polar bear on a tour of the Ranua Wildlife Park in Finland. She was very friendly and took her sweet time posing for the cameras.
Equipment: Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV
Slip slidin' awayPhotographer: swald
Description: One of the local golf courses also serves as a winter recreation area, with cross-country skiing, fat tire biking, disc golf, and sliding. The very steep tenth fairway hosts the sleds and snow tubes, and this family joined several tubes to enjoy a thrilling ride to the bottom.
Equipment: Nikon D300 + AF Nikkor 300mm F4 ED
Mountain biking in snowy FinlandPhotographer: Hotel12
Description: This was my first photoshoot with remote controls, and it worked excellently. The sun was shining, and fresh snow had come in the night. The trail was covered with light snow, and it was like I was riding a motor-powered dirt bike, though it was a mountain bike. Taken with the OM System OM-1 II with 40-150mm f2.8, human subject tracking and AF-C using Hahnel remote controls.
Equipment: OM System OM-1 Mark II + Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm F2.8 Pro
Alaska: Dog sled racingPhotographer: summicron
Description: The Alaska Dog Mushers Association hosts the Open North American Championships, the world’s premier sprint sled dog race, annually in and around Fairbanks, Alaska. Teams gather from around the world to compete in a series of fast sprint races. Shown is from the race in March 2013.
Equipment: Nikon D800E + Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR
