Sigma has revealed what it calls “the smallest and lightest single-lens mirrorless camera in the world”, a statement that is easy to believe looking at it. The fp L is not only tiny, but has a 61 megapixel full-frame sensor, making it one of the highest resolution full-frame models available alongside Sony’s A7R IV. In fact, it can share the same or a similar sensor from Sony, as it has the same resolution specification.
With the fp L, Sigma also introduced the hybrid phase detection autofocus and what it describes as “high precision” contrast autofocus. This is a big step compared to the contrast detection system that I had in previous cameras, like the full-frame fp. This system will allow a “smooth, fast and accurate autofocus” to track moving subjects, both for photos and videos. It also includes auto focus with eye detection and subject tracking.
Sigma
Speaking of video, the fp L can handle 8-bit 4K 30 fps video internally or allow you to capture the same resolution externally in RAW to an external recorder or as 12-bit CinemaDNG files to an SSD. The latter is a very interesting option, since few (if any) cameras, besides some models from Blackmagic Design, allow video capture directly to an external drive. You also get features like true 24p video (not 23.97 fps), along with zebras, peak focus and a waveform display to help you assess exposure. You can also record 4K DCI (4,096 x 2,160), but only for an external recorder.
Other features include USB-C charging while the camera is on, webcam support and a “crop zoom” feature that allows you to zoom in up to 5 times when cutting the high-resolution sensor – again, a feature we’ve only seen on smartphones, not cameras.
Along with the fp L, Sigma unveiled the optional EVF-11 display designed for it. It offers a 3.69 million-dot OLED display with a large eye pad and tilts forward or upward by 90 degrees. It connects to the USB-C port, but offers a USB-C port if you are using an external SSD, but there is no SSD port – so you cannot use EVF and an external recorder at the same time.
The Sigma fp L arrives in mid-April for $ 2,499, a price that seems very reasonable, given the specifications. The optional display will arrive at the same time for $ 699.