Sigma

Sigma Corporation, founded in 1961 by Michihiro Yamaki in Japan, initially began as a small family-owned business producing lenses. In the early years, Sigma focused on manufacturing lenses for other camera brands, gaining recognition for their quality and innovation. However, it wasn't until the late 1960s that Sigma began producing its own cameras, such as the Sigma SA-1, an SLR camera introduced in 1975. This marked the company's entry into the camera market and laid the foundation for its future developments.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Sigma continued to expand its lens lineup, introducing various innovations such as the first ultra-wide-angle zoom lens and the first large-aperture zoom lens. These advancements solidified Sigma's reputation as a manufacturer of high-quality lenses, catering to both amateur and professional photographers alike. Additionally, Sigma's dedication to producing lenses compatible with multiple camera mounts allowed them to reach a broader audience.

In the early 2000s, Sigma ventured into the digital camera market with the release of the Sigma SD9, their first digital SLR camera featuring a unique Foveon X3 sensor. This sensor technology aimed to provide superior image quality by capturing full-color information at every pixel location, setting Sigma apart from other camera manufacturers. Despite facing challenges in gaining widespread adoption, Sigma continued to refine its digital camera offerings with subsequent models like the SD14 and SD Quattro series.

In recent years, Sigma has further expanded its lens lineup, particularly with the Art, Contemporary, and Sports series, which offer lenses designed for different types of photography. The Art series, in particular, has gained acclaim for its exceptional optical performance and build quality, appealing to professional photographers seeking high-resolution and sharpness. Additionally, Sigma has embraced the mirrorless camera market, releasing lenses compatible with various mirrorless camera systems, including the popular Sony E-mount and L-mount Alliance.

Looking forward, Sigma continues to innovate, recently announcing the development of the world's smallest and lightest full-frame mirrorless camera, the Sigma fp. With a commitment to pushing the boundaries of optical and imaging technology, Sigma remains a significant player in the camera and lens industry, providing photographers with innovative tools to unleash their creative potential.