Creators who love photography share stories about their cameras and the narratives behind them. The notion of a “beloved camera” reflects each individual’s worldview and values. In this installment, we feature umai_gohan, an avid user of the SIGMA DP2 Merrill.
As digital cameras become increasingly advanced, anyone can now shoot with ease. Yet, there are photographers who deliberately embrace “inconvenience.” The distinctive tactile feel and idiosyncratic rendering—qualities that still make you want to take it out with you. This time, we delve into the unconventional compact digital camera, the SIGMA DP2 Merrill, equipped with a FOVEON sensor.
SIGMA DP2 Merrill | Basic Information
The SIGMA DP2 Merrill is a fixed-lens compact digital camera released by SIGMA in 2012. Featuring an APS-C size FOVEON X3 Merrill sensor, its unique three-layer structure—unlike conventional Bayer sensors—delivers exceptional resolution and dimensionality in its rendering.
“Is This Really a Compact Camera?”
The first thing many people think when they pick up the SIGMA DP2 Merrill is, “Is this really a compact camera?”
It’s undeniably large. For those with smaller hands, even holding it one-handed requires some care. I also found it a bit unwieldy at first, so I added an L-bracket to improve the grip.
Photo by umai_gohan
The write speed isn’t exactly fast, and the file conversion during post-processing is also quirky. It’s a rather unconventional camera. Yet, it’s precisely these inconveniences that make it so alluring.
Photo by umai_gohan
The FOVEON sensor it uses hasn’t seen a new model announced in a long time, so you can only find them secondhand now. That’s why I think this is a camera that those accustomed to the comfort of modern cameras should try when seeking a new thrill.
Ruins and FOVEON
The SIGMA DP2 Merrill features an APS-C sensor with a field of view equivalent to 28mm. This time, I explored abandoned sites with this angle of view.
Startup is by no means fast. Yet, that brief pause gives you a moment to compose yourself and prepare to shoot.
Photo by umai_gohan
When shooting street scenes, it’s common to miss the decisive moment. But this time, my subject was ruins. The scenery there seemed to have been waiting for someone to arrive all along.
Photo by umai_gohan
How long has it been since people left this place?
Peeled wallpaper, faded notices, dust piling up by the windows. Sometimes, the images captured by the FOVEON sensor are more delicate—and at times, more ruthless—than what you see with the naked eye.
Capturing the Atmosphere
When shooting in monochrome with this camera, it feels as if the contours of the air itself suddenly become visible.
It’s not just about recording a scene. Each time I press the shutter, it feels as though I’m enclosing the very air that was present in that moment within the frame.
Photo by umai_gohan
Perhaps it’s less about shooting and more about “preserving memories.” The SIGMA DP2 Merrill is astonishingly honest in its rendering. Yet, the process of getting there is anything but straightforward.
That’s precisely why I find myself so drawn to this camera.
Photo by umai_gohan
umai_gohan
Shoots primarily urban ruins, street scenes, and zoos. Focuses on capturing the “density of time” through minimalist compositions and split-second decisions, all centered around prime lenses. Gear selection is highly specialized and tailored to intent.
cizucu: umai_gohan
Threads: @umai_gohan___