Sigma has announced a high-resolution version of its ultra-compact L-mount full-frame mirrorless camera. The fp L gains a 61MP sensor with on-chip phase detection for autofocus, which we’d assume is similar to that found in the Sony Alpha 7R IV. The firm has also introduced an electronic viewfinder that bolts onto the camera’s side, which will be compatible with the original 24MP Sigma fp pending an upcoming firmware update.
Sigma’s new fp L employs a 61MP full-frame sensor behind its L mount
The fp L’s new sensor makes it the joint highest-resolution full-frame camera on the market. It employs a back-illuminated architecture, along with a conventional Bayer colour filter array. Sigma has fitted a weak optical low-pass filter to suppress imaging artefacts such as moiré.
To help make best use of the resolution, the firm has also introduced a crop zoom mode that works in both stills and video. It employs the central portion of the sensor to zoom in digitally on the subject, providing 15MP resolution at 2x zoom. Meanwhile the on-chip phase detection promises much-improved autofocus compared to the original fp, including more reliable tracking of moving subjects.
The fp L uses an identical body design to the original 24MP fp
Major photographic specifications include a standard sensitivity range of ISO 100-25,600 which is extendable up to ISO 102,400. In addition the camera offers low settings of ISO 6, 12, 25 and 50, which we assume are composites of multiple ISO 100 exposures, like on the fp. There’s no mechanical shutter, with the silent electronic shutter supporting speeds from 30 to 1/8000sec and continuous shooting at up to 10 frames per second.
Image files can be recorded as either JPGs or 14-bit DNG raws to a single UHS-II compatible SD card slot, or alternatively to an external SSD via the camera’s USB-C port. Video recording is available in 4K at up to 30fps, or Full HD at up to 120fps. The camera supports webcam functionality out of the box and can be powered via USB-C for increased stamina.
The new EVF-11 conncts to the side of the camera and can tilt upwards by 90°
In terms of design, the fp L is otherwise essentially identical to its predecessor. It uses a compact, box-shaped, dust- and splash-proof body measuring 112.6 x 69.9 x 45.3 mm and weighing just 427g. A choice of add-on two grips is available, and indeed pretty much essential for comfortable hand-held shooting. One notable compromise of the small size is that there’s no in-body image stabilisation.
Meanwhile, the new EVF-11 viewfinder bolts onto the side of the camera body, connecting via the USB-C and HDMI ports. It employs a 3.69m-dot panel and provides an impressively large 0.83x magnification, and can tilt upwards by 90°. It adds 119g to the camera’s weight and provides a 3.5mm stereo headphone connector, along with a USB-C port for connecting an SSD.
The Sigma fp L and EVF-11 are both due to hit the shops on April 11th. The camera will cost £2000 body-only, just £300 more than the fp’s current street price, while the viewfinder will be £600. They’ll also be available bundled together as a kit for £2450, representing a decent £150 saving.
