SIGMA Photo Pro 5.5

SIGMA Photo Pro 5.5 now offers a specialized mode to process the RAW data of the SIGMA Merrill cameras for the creation of monochrome photography. Sigma and Foveon have added a new monochrome mode to Sigma Photo Pro, allowing photographers to create monochrome photographs with RAW data and full RGB data for each pixel. The SIGMA Photo Pro 5.5 for both Windows and Macintosh OS will be available in February.

Sigma UK Press Release

SIGMA Photo Pro Monochrome Mode

The Sigma Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki) is pleased to announce that SIGMA Photo Pro opens up an exciting new world of photographic expression by developing a specialized mode to process the RAW data of the SIGMA Merrill series for the creation of monochrome photography.

Sigma Photo Pro is an exclusive software package for displaying and manipulating, on your computer, the images taken with Sigma digital cameras. User friendly, this software allows a creator to express the exact intention by simply moving the slider for the basic parameters, such as exposure, contrast and sharpness. Sigma and Foveon have added a new monochrome mode to Sigma Photo Pro, allowing photographers to create monochrome photographs with RAW data and full RGB data for each pixel.

The Foveon X3 Direct Image Sensor is the full colour image sensor that uses three layers of photodiodes to gather the entire red, green and blue colour information of light. It requires no colour filters or any compensation, and offers highly sharp and natural image. Since colour moiré is not generated, the use of a low-pass filter is not required, resulting in superior image quality. As there is no gap between color resolution and brightness resolution, it also enhances the rendering performance.

Unlike conventional sensors, the Foveon X3 Direct Image Sensor requires no colour interpolation process. The benefits of this system are particularly apparent in the high-frequency range, which is difficult to replicate. As a result of these advantages, Sigma’s full-colour capture system produces richly detailed Monochrome images with a wide dynamic range from highlight to shadow. It creates ultra-high-resolution images simulating high ISO, such as ISO1600 and ISO3200, with minimal noise. In addition to amazing resolution, photographers can expect smooth, beautiful gradations and superior representation of light and shadow. Sigma Photo Pro brings full creativity to photographers, allowing them to express themselves easily and accurately and to enjoy all that true monochrome photography has to offer. Sigma’s full colour RAW data, able to generate colourful images, can now develop rich, detailed monochrome pictures as well.
Editing Options for the Next Level Monochrome Pictures

Colour Mixer
This function alters the RGB proportions across the entire image. Different from a contrast adjustor, it allows the photographer to realize his or her vision. This function makes possible monochrome photographs that appear to have been shot with colour filters.

Film Grain Effect
This function replicates the graininess of classic film. The size and roughness of the grains can be adjusted.

The SIGMA Photo Pro 5.5 for both Windows and Macintosh OS will be available in February.

[Information]
SIGMA World Network: http://www.sigma-photo.co.jp/english/network/

[Product information]
Special Site: http://www.sigma-photo.co.jp/sppmonochrome/en/