Sigma SD1 Merrill User Manual
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Sigma SD1 Merrill User Manual

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C26EN1221
E ENGLISH
USER'S MANUAL
This manual explains how to use the SIGMA SD1 Merrill digital SLR camera.
For installation instructions of the supplied "SIGMA Photo Pro" software,
please refer to the "Install Guide_EN.pdf" file on the SIGMA Photo Pro disc.
For further information on how to use SIGMA Photo Pro and how to connect
the camera to your computer, please click on Help in SIGMA Photo Pro.
This camera is compatible with the remote camera control software "SIGMA
Capture Pro" which allows photographers to tether the camera body to their
computer and take control over camera setting and capture images remotely.
SIGMA Capture Pro is available for download from our website.
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  • Page 1 E ENGLISH USER’S MANUAL This manual explains how to use the SIGMA SD1 Merrill digital SLR camera. For installation instructions of the supplied “SIGMA Photo Pro” software, please refer to the “Install Guide_EN.pdf” file on the SIGMA Photo Pro disc.

  • Page 2: Notes On Copyright

    Thank you for purchasing the Sigma Digital Autofocus Camera The Sigma SD1 Merrill Digital SLR camera is a technical breakthrough! It is powered by the Foveon® X3™ image sensor, the world’s first image sensor to capture red, green and blue light at each and every pixel. A high- resolution digital single-lens reflex camera, the SD1 Merrill delivers superior- quality digital images by combining Sigma’s extensive interchangeable lens...

  • Page 3: Package Contents / Accessories

    Li-ion Battery BP-21（Battery Cover is included） Battery Charger BC-21 Battery Charger Cable USB Cable Audio Video Cable SIGMA Photo Pro Disc Instruction Manual Warranty Card SIGMA Limited Warranty & Service Network • No memory card is included with this camera. Please purchase this separately.

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    TABLE OF CONTENTS PACKAGE CONTENTS / ACCESSORIES ............2 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ................. 6 HANDLING PRECAUTIONS ................9 DESCRIPTION OF THE PARTS ..............11 CONTROL DIALS ................... 13 CONNECTERS ....................13 VIEWFINDER ....................14 BASIC OPERATION AND QUICK REFERENCE ........... 15 PREPARATION ATTACHING THE CARRY STRAP ..............
  • Page 5 EXPOSURE MODE AND BUILT-IN FLASH ........... 52 FLASH FUNCTION SETTINGS ..............53 FOCUSING HOW TO USE AUTOFOCUS ................55 SELECTING THE AUTOFOCUS MODE ............56 AF POINT SELECTION .................. 57 AF AUXILIARY LIGHT ..................58 FOCUS LOCK ....................58 MANUAL FOCUS .................... 59 AF DRIVE AND AF BUTTON SETTINGS ............
  • Page 6 REVIEWING IMAGES VIEWING ONE IMAGE AT A TIME ..............88 MAGNIFYING IMAGES (ZOOMED-IN VIEW) ..........89 VIEWING NINE IMAGES AT A TIME (CONTACT SHEET VIEW) ....90 VIEWING IMAGE INFORMATION ..............91 MAGNIFIED IMAGES IN IMAGE INFO SCREEN .......... 92 HISTOGRAM ....................

  • Page 7: Safety Precautions

    Take the camera to the retailer where you bought it, or to an authorized Sigma service station. Please follow all guidelines, rules and regulations of your community regarding the disposal of batteries.
  • Page 8 Do not touch internal parts of the camera that become exposed as a result of damage, it could cause fire or electric shock. Remove the batteries and contact an authorized Sigma service station. After attaching a lens, do not look directly at the sun, through the viewfinder.
  • Page 9 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS Do not fire the flash close to eyes. Otherwise, the bright light would damage the eye. Keep at least 1m/3feet distance between face and the camera, when taking a picture with flash. Do not cover the flash with your finger or hand, it can cause skin burn. CAUTION (BATTERY CHARGER AND AC ADAPTER) Do not pull the Battery Charger or the AC power cord, when disconnecting...

  • Page 10: Handling Precautions

    Carry spare batteries when you use the camera in a cold environment, on a field trip, or when taking many pictures at one time. Do not use this camera with any external flash unit other than Sigma Flash EF-610/530/500 DG SUPER SA-STTL or EF-610/530/500 DG ST SA-STTL, which have special contact pins on the hot shoe.

  • Page 11: How To Store The Camera

    COMPACTFLASH™ (CF) CARD (SOLD SEPARATELY) The SD1 Merrill camera uses CompactFlash™ (CF) card (Type 1). In this instruction manual, CompactFlash™ (CF) card is referred to as the ◆...

  • Page 12: Description Of The Parts

    DESCRIPTION OF THE PARTS...
  • Page 13 1. AF AUXILIARY LIGHT ( EXPOSURE COMPENSATION) BUTTON 2. DUST PROTECTOR 24. A-DIAL ( 3. LENS MOUNT (ISO SENSITIVITY) BUTTON 4. LENS LOCK BUTTON 26. FOCAL PLANE MARK 5. BATTERY COMPARTMENT COVER 27. S-DIAL ( BATTERY COMPARTMENT COVER 28. CF CARD COVER LATCH 7.

  • Page 14: Control Dials

    CONTROL DIALS D-DIAL AUTO BRACKETING MIRROR LOCK-UP SELF-TIMER (2s) SELF-TIMER (10s) DRIVE AREA CONTINUOUS SHOOTING SINGLE FRAME SHOOTING POWER OFF MODE DIAL CUSTOM MODE PROGRAM AE APERTURE PRIORITY AE SHUTTER SPEED PRIORITY AE MANUAL EXPOSURE SETTING CONNECTERS PC SYNCHRO TERMINAL USB / VIDEO TERMINAL RELEASE SOCKET DC-IN TERMINAL...

  • Page 15: Viewfinder

    VIEWFINDER AF POINT SPOT METERING CIRCLE EXPOSURE MODE FLASH INDICATOR FLASH EXPOSURE COMPENSATION FP FLASH INDICATOR (USING EXTERNAL FLASH) FOCUS INDICATOR SHUTTER SPEED APERTURE VALUE AE LOCK INDICATOR AUTO BRACKETING EXPOSURE METER FRAME NUMBER COUNTER / ISO SENSITIVITY METERING MODE NUMBER OF SHOTS REMAINING BEFORE MEMORY BUFFER FULL...

  • Page 16: Basic Operation And Quick Reference

    BASIC OPERATION AND QUICK REFERENCE The SD1 Merrill camera has many advanced features. This section, describes basic camera operation. You can find more details in later sections. Charging the battery (P.19) Charge the supplied lithium-ion battery with the provided battery charger.
  • Page 17 Set the language (P.26) Set the date and time (P.27) Loading the card (P.39) Turn the D-dial to the □ (single frame shooting) position. (P.61) Set the AF/MF switch on the lens to the AF position. (P.55)
  • Page 18 Select the exposure mode (P.45) Set the Mode dial to P (Program AE) position. Focus (P.55) Determine the composition through the finder, and then press the shutter button halfway to activate exposure metering and autofocus. Take a picture Press the shutter button “All-the way-down” to take a picture.

  • Page 19: Preparation

    PREPARATION This section describes necessary preparations before using the camera. ATTACHING THE CARRY STRAP Undo the strap end. Thread the finder cap onto the strap. Attach the carry strap as shown. HOW TO USE THE FINDER CAP When using the self-timer or remote control, cover the viewfinder eyepiece with the finder cap to prevent stray light from entering the camera.

  • Page 20: Loading The Battery

    LOADING THE BATTERY A lithium-ion battery BP-21 is provided with the SD1 Merrill camera. Charge the battery fully before using the camera for the first time. Please charge the battery with the supplied battery charger BC-21 no power is left in the battery.
  • Page 21 LOADING THE BATTERY Confirm that the D-dial is in the position, and open the battery compartment cover by rotating the battery compartment cover latch, as shown in the illustration. Insert the battery in accordance with the instruction inside the battery compartment. Insert the battery until it locks into place.

  • Page 22: To Remove The Battery

    TO REMOVE THE BATTERY Turn the D-dial to the position, and open the battery compartment cover by rotating the battery compartment cover latch, as shown in the illustration. Eject the battery by sliding the battery compartment cover latch in the direction of the arrow, as shown in the illustration.

  • Page 23: Checking The Battery Status

    CHECKING THE BATTERY STATUS The battery icon, which shows the capacity of the battery, is shown on the left corner on the color LCD monitor. Explanations of the symbols are given as follows. Please take notice of the battery status before and when in use. Battery Status The battery strength is sufficient.

  • Page 24: Using A Home Power Supply (Sold Separately)

    When you have finished using the camera, please disconnect the plug from the wall socket. When using the SD1 Merrill with an AC power supply, the battery icon shows the full symbol, regardless of the power level of the battery. If you start to operate the camera on battery power, the display will change and show the remaining power level of the battery.

  • Page 25: Mounting And Removing The Lens

    MOUNTING AND REMOVING THE LENS Make sure the D-dial is set to (Power Off position). Remove the camera body cap and the rear cap of the lens’. Align the white mark on the camera’s mount with the red dot on the lens. Insert the lens into the mount of the camera and rotate the lens clockwise until it clicks into the locked position.
  • Page 26 CAUTION !! • The SD1 Merrill camera contains a dust protector, located inside the lens mount. The dust protector is a very delicate device. Take care not to scratch its surface. Touching or pushing it with your fingers can easily damage it. If there is dirt or dust on it, please refer to the Maintenance section of your manual (P.116).

  • Page 27: Setting The Language

    SETTING THE LANGUAGE You should receive the SD1 Merrill camera pre-set to English, however, if necessary, you can change the camera language yourself. Make sure the camera is turned on. Press the button on the back of the camera to display the Camera Set-up Menu.

  • Page 28: Setting The Time And Date

    SETTING THE TIME AND DATE The SD1 Merrill camera records the date and time when each image is captured and stores this information with the image. To ensure that the correct information is recorded with each image, set the camera’s internal clock to the correct date and time before using the camera for the first time or after extended periods of disuse.

  • Page 29: Camera Set-Up Menu

    CAMERA SET-UP MENU This section describes the various settings in the Camera Set-up menu. It is possible to set the camera functions from the Camera Set-up menu display. TO DISPLAY THE SET-UP MENU Press the button on the back of the camera.

  • Page 30: Capture Settings

    The Camera Set-up menu is divided into three groups. Capture Settings This menu relates to shooting settings. When an exposure mode is selected and the button pressed Capture Settings] will be displayed. Playback Menu This menu is for setting the playback related functions of the still images.
  • Page 31 LIST OF MENU FUNCTIONS For more detailed information about each function, please refer to the individual pages. Capture Settings Menu Item Description Page Captures the image to be used for the Custom WB custom white balance setting. Picture Settings Sets image parameter and color space. Sets or cancels to record the vertical Auto Rotate image information.
  • Page 32 Capture Settings Menu Item Description Page Sets whether or not the AF auxiliary AF Auxiliary Light light is used in low light conditions. Sets the functions of buttons related AF Drive Setting with AF drive. Sets whether or not the function of A-dial ( ) and S-dial ( ) is changed...

  • Page 33: Playback Menu

    Playback Menu Menu Item Description Page Lock the image, or unlock the locked Lock image. Mark the image, or unmark the marked Mark image. Rotate the image to the desired Rotate position for display. Delete Delete the image. Start the slideshow (playback images Slideshow automatically) or change the slideshow settings.

  • Page 34: Camera Settings

    Camera Settings Menu Item Description Page AF Micro Make adjustments to the AF’s point of Adjustment focus. Register the setting of Custom Mode Custom Mode Setting (C1・C2・C3）. Sets whether or not Extended Mode is Extended Mode used in the Bulb setting. Sets or cancels electronic beeping AF Beep sound.
  • Page 35 To transfer recorded images in the card from the camera to computers, select [Mass Storage]. To control the camera USB Mode by using “SIGMA Capture Pro”, select [Camera Control]. (USB Mode cannot be switched if there is no card in the camera.)

  • Page 36: Function Display

    FUNCTION DISPLAY It is possible to confirm the settings related with shooting (Aperture value, Shutter Speed, Exposure Mode, Number of shots remaining). In addition, it is possible to change the setting of following function in this display. FUNC INFORMATION 1 Battery Level Indicator 9 Auto Bracket 2 Custom Mode 10 Remote Control Channel...
  • Page 37 To show the Function Display, press the button. When Function Display is on, the color LCD monitor will be turned off by pressing button, the button or the shutter button halfway. Whilst the Function Display is on, it is possible to change the settings of FUNC SETTING 1 and FUNC SETTING 2 using the 4-way controller.

  • Page 38: Quick Set Menu

    QUICK SET MENU By pressing the button, it is possible to quickly access and change the settings of the following most commonly used camera functions. Qs1 (Quick Set Menu 1) ISO Setting (P.67) Flash Mode Metering Mode (P.53) (P.71) AF Mode (P.56) Qs2 (Quick Set Menu 2) White Balance (P.65) Image Quality...

  • Page 39: Camera Info Page

    When you select (Custom) from [White Balance], the current stored setting in [Custom WB] will be used. It is not possible to capture a new custom white balance from (Custom) in Quick Set Menu. Please capture a new custom white balance from [ Capture Settings] (P.28) →...

  • Page 40: Inserting And Removing The Card

    INSERTING AND REMOVING THE CARD The SD1 Merrill camera uses a CompactFlash™ (CF) card (Type1) to store the data. Type II CompactFlash™ and hard disk type cards cannot be used. TO INSERT THE CARD Set the D-dial to the position.
  • Page 41 TO REMOVE THE CARD Set the D-dial to the position. • Make sure that the CF card busy light is off, before continuing. Slide the CF card cover until it pops open. Press the Eject button to eject the CF card. Close CF card cover and slide it in the direction shown by the arrow until it clicks shut...

  • Page 42: Formatting The Card

    Cards formatted in other cameras or devices may not operate correctly in the SD1 Merrill camera or may have reduced capacity. To store the maximum number of SD1 Merrill files, format the card in the SD1 Merrill camera before use.

  • Page 43: Frame Number Counter

    FRAME NUMBER COUNTER The number of images that can be recorded on the card is displayed on the viewfinder display and the Function Display. The number of images that can be recorded on the card depends on the settings you choose. For example, in the illustration on the left, 32 pictures can be stored on the card.

  • Page 44: Diopter Adjustment

    DIOPTER ADJUSTMENT Adjust the viewfinder diopter so that you can see clearly through the viewfinder. While looking through the viewfinder, rotate the diopter adjuster to the left or to the right, until the image appears sharp on the focus screen. •...

  • Page 45: Shutter Button

    SHUTTER BUTTON The shutter button of the SD1 Merrill cameras has two positions. When you press the shutter button halfway, the camera’s autofocus and Exposure Systems activate. When you press the button “all-the-way down”, and the shutter will release to take a picture.

  • Page 46: Basic Operation

    BASIC OPERATION SELECTING THE EXPOSURE MODE The features and the operation methods of the four different exposure modes of the camera are explained below. P PROGRAM AE To make picture taking easier, the camera will automatically select an appropriate combination shutter speed and aperture value, according to the brightness of the subject.

  • Page 47: Program Shift

    When this symbol blinks, the shutter speed may be too slow and the picture may be blurred. In this case, please use a flash (P.51,81) or a tripod to prevent blurring. PROGRAM SHIFT You can change the combination of shutter speed and aperture value, which were automatically selected by the camera.

  • Page 48: A Aperture Priority Ae

    A APERTURE PRIORITY AE After you set the aperture value, the camera will determine the appropriate shutter speed. If you select smaller apertures, depth of field will be greater. Larger apertures tend to blur the background, as depth of field will be shallower.

  • Page 49: S Shutter Speed Priority Ae

    S SHUTTER SPEED PRIORITY AE When you set the desired shutter speed, the camera will select the appropriate aperture value for correct exposure. You can achieve stop action effects by selecting a fast shutter speed, or give the feeling of motion to a moving subject by selecting a slow shutter speed.

  • Page 50: M Manual Exposure

    M MANUAL EXPOSURE Set both the shutter speed and aperture value according to the indication of the exposure meter. You can change the exposure, as you desire. Set the D-dial to the “Drive-Area” (P.13). Set the Mode dial to the “M” position. Press the shutter button halfway to verify the focus, and rotate S-dial ( ) to select the...

  • Page 51: Bulb Setting

    BULB SETTING When long time exposures are required (for shooting night scenes or very dark subjects) the use of the “Bulb” setting is recommended. Please use a tripod, when taking pictures with this setting. Set the D-dial on the “Drive Area” (P.13). Set the Mode dial to the “M”...

  • Page 52: Using The Built-In Flash

    The lens hood may intrude into the light path of the built-in flash unit, resulting in a shadow at the bottom of the picture. (The same phenomenon is possible with a lens, which has a large front lens and long length) Either remove the lens hood, or use an external Sigma dedicated flash.

  • Page 53: Exposure Mode And Built-In Flash

    CAUTION !! • To prevent overheating and protect the built-in flash unit after using continous shooting with flash, please do not use your flash for a while. EXPOSURE MODE AND BUILT-IN FLASH P mode Depending on the brightness of the subject and focal length of lens, the most appropriate shutter speed (between 1/30 - 1/180 sec) and aperture value will be selected.

  • Page 54: Flash Function Settings

    (It is not possible to use the red-eye reduction flash when the external flash SIGMA EF DG ST series is attached to the camera body.) WIRELESS TTL FLASH MODE...

  • Page 55: Slow Sync

    When using the optional flash SIGMA EF DG SUPER series, please set this function on the flashgun. (It is not possible to use rear curtain synchronization when the external flash SIGMA EF DG ST series is attached to the camera body.)

  • Page 56: Focusing

    FOCUSING Adjustment of autofocus and manual focus operation are explained below. HOW TO USE AUTOFOCUS It is possible to use Autofocus function only with AF Lenses. Your camera is equipped with highly precise AF System and incorporates two different autofocus modes. (In the case of Mirror lenses and some specialized lenses, the camera can be use only in Manual Focus mode).

  • Page 57: Selecting The Autofocus Mode

    In such cases, please use one of the following focusing methods. Use the Focus Lock function to focus on another subject, which has a similar focusing distance as your subject. Set the lens to MF mode and focus manually. SELECTING THE AUTOFOCUS MODE It is possible to set the Autofocus mode from the Quick Set Menu (P.37) or the Function Display (P.35).

  • Page 58: Af Point Selection

    AF POINT SELECTION The SD1 Merrill is equipped with 11 focusing points. Selecting the AF point can be done automatically or manually by the photographer. Press button and select the desired AF point by rotating the A-dial ( ) displayed in the viewfinder.

  • Page 59: Af Auxiliary Light

    AF AUXILIARY LIGHT The built-in AF auxiliary light of the SD1 Merrill enables focusing in low light conditions. The AF auxiliary light can be used with (Single AF mode) and automatic or center focus AF point selection only. The AF auxiliary light is effective with the center focus of the automatic AF selection only.

  • Page 60: Manual Focus

    Keep the shutter button depressed halfway while you compose the picture as desired. Then press the shutter button the rest of the way to take picture. Focus Lock with the shutter button can be used with (single AF mode) only. The AF cannot be locked in (continuous AF mode).

  • Page 61: Af Drive And Af Button Settings

    AF DRIVE AND AF BUTTON SETTINGS SD1 Merrill is equipped with the button. It is possible to allocate the function of AF Lock or AF drive to the button. Please set from [ Capture Settings] (P.28) → [AF Drive Setting].

  • Page 62: Operation Of The Drive Mode

    OPERATION OF THE DRIVE MODE Operation of the self-timer, and other functions of the camera are explained by the following: DRIVE-AREA Some of the important operations and settings of the camera can be activated by the drive area of the D-dial. Such as single frame shooting, continuous shooting, self-timer, and mirror lock-up.

  • Page 63: Continuous Shooting

    CONTINUOUS SHOOTING In this mode, when you keep the shutter button fully depressed, the camera will take pictures continuously. At the time of continuous shooting the number of frames per sec. is given below. The maximum number of frames and speed of continuous shooting are as follows: Image Size (Resolution mode) (HI)

  • Page 64: Self Timer

    SELF TIMER When you want to include yourself in the picture or avoid camera shake, please use the self-timer. When you set the self-timer to 10s, then the shutter will be released 10seconds after you fully press the shutter button. When you set the self-timer to 2s, then the shutter will be released 2seconds after you fully press the shutter button.
  • Page 65 It is possible to change the exposure timing of mirror lock-up photography. Please set from [ Capture Settings] (P.28) → [UP setting]. Shutter button After the mirror is raised, exposure will be measured by (Default) pressing the shutter button halfway. Exposure will be measured 2 seconds after the mirror is after 2 sec raised.

  • Page 66: Advanced Operation

    Approx. Select this setting when taking pictures with Flash 7000 K the Sigma EF-610/530/500 DG flash. Select this setting when using a custom white balance. Use the [Custom WB] menu Custom  option to create a custom white balance setting.

  • Page 67: Setting A Custom White Balance

    It is possible to select the white balance options from the Quick Set Menu (P.37) or the Function Display (P.35). If Custom White Balance ( ) is selected, the white balance data which you captured from [Custom WB] in [ Capture Settings] (P.28) last time will be applied.

  • Page 68: Setting The Sensitivity（Iso Equivalency

    SETTING THE SENSITIVITY（ISO EQUIVALENCY） The photosensitivity of digital cameras is described in terms of “ISO equivalent” like silver-halide film cameras. (ISO sensitivity P.120) While pressing the button, rotate S-dial ) to set the desired ISO sensitivity. It is possible to select the ISO sensitivity from following.

  • Page 69: Image File Setting

    IMAGE FILE SETTING The file size changes depending on resolution mode and recording quality selected. Image Size (Resolution mode) (HI) (MED) (LOW) 4704×3136 3264×2176 2336×1568 45 MB 24 MB 12 MB (RAW) FINE 10 MB 5 MB 2.5 MB (JPEG) Image Quality NORM 5.6 MB...

  • Page 70: Color Mode

    • When RAW+JPG is selected, the Image Quality of JPEG will be FINE. • When RAW+JPG is selected, the selected Image Size will be applied to both the RAW and JPEG files. COLOR MODE It is possible to select the desired Color Mode depending on the shooting conditions.

  • Page 71: Image Parameter And Color Space

    • It is possible to make pictures according to your intension by the combination of Color Mode and Picture Settings. For example, when Color Mode is set to Vivid and the cursor of Saturation in Picture Settings is set to + side, pictures will be made more vivid.

  • Page 72: Selecting The Metering Mode

    RAW images using the supplied Sigma Photo Pro software. Please set color space to sRGB for regular usage. If you select Adobe RGB, please be sure to use the supplied Sigma Photo Pro software or another image processing software supporting DCF 2.0.

  • Page 73: Ae Lock

    SPOT METERING The camera will measure the brightness of only the Spot Metering Circle. AE LOCK The camera will fix and memorize the exposure value whilst the “AE” Lock button is depressed. When you wish to lock the exposure of a subject off-center, AE lock is very useful.
  • Page 74 When the subject is out of focus during AE lock operation, remove your finger from shutter button and press the shutter button halfway again, or remove your finger from the AE lock button and restart from the beginning. It is possible to continue AE Lock even if the finger is released from the button.

  • Page 75: Exposure Compensation

    EXPOSURE COMPENSATION If you want to intentionally overexpose or underexpose the picture, use this function. While pressing button, turn the S-dial ) to set the desired compensation value. Then, release the Exposure Compensation button. “0.0” will be shown in the color LCD monitor and viewfinder display when you initially press the exposure compensation button.

  • Page 76: Flash Exposure Compensation

    FLASH EXPOSURE COMPENSATION It is possible to compensate the flash output level without changing background’s exposure. While pressing the button, turn the A-dial ) or S-dial ( ) to set the compensation amount. mark and “0.0” will be displayed in the color LCD monitor and viewfinder display when you initially press the button.

  • Page 77: Auto Bracketing

    AUTO BRACKETING This function of the camera lets you take a sequence of pictures of the same subject at three different exposure levels; Appropriate Exposure, Under Exposure and Over Exposure. If it is difficult to determine the proper exposure, please use this function. Set the D-dial to position.
  • Page 78 The exposure bracketing can be used with 4 different modes. P Mode ; Both shutter speed and aperture value will be changed. A Mode ; Only shutter speed will be changed. S Mode ; Only aperture value will be changed. M Mode ;...

  • Page 79: Remote Controller Rs-31

    Auto Bracketing mode can be used in combination with Exposure Compensation. You can take pictures with Auto Bracketing mode based on a compensated exposure, which you set. To do so, please set both the Auto Bracketing mode and Exposure Compensation mode as desired. The combined value (Exposure Compensation and Auto Bracketing) will be indicated on the viewfinder display.
  • Page 80 SETTING OF THE CAMERA Please set from [ Capture Settings] (P.28) → [RC Channel] and select the same channel number as the remote controller. Check that the subject is framed correctly. After you set the focus, we recommend setting the lens switch to MF position. Point the transmitting diode at the camera and press the transmit button.
  • Page 81 USING THE MIRROR LOCK-UP WITH REMOTE CONTROL When using mirror-up mode with the remote controller, we recommend that after adjusting the focus, fully depress the shutter button of the camera once, to lock-up the mirror, and then release the shutter by remote control. This procedure saves your time.

  • Page 82: Depth-Of-Field Preview Button

    (SOLD SEPARATELY) ELECTRONIC FLASH EF-610 DG ST SA-STTL (SOLD SEPARATELY) Optional Sigma Electronic Flashes EF-610 DG SUPER SA-STTL and EF-610 DG ST SA-STTL with the STTL system allow you to use features such as Auto Flash Merrill with the SD1 .
  • Page 83 SA-5, SA-7 and SA-9 cameras. WARNING !! • SD1 Merrill is compatible only with the DG series clip-on type flashguns. Non-DG type Sigma flashguns or flashguns for the other camera brands made by Sigma, or flashguns made by other manufacturers, cannot be used with Sigma SD1 Merrill camera.

  • Page 84: Auto Rotate

    • The SD1 Merrill’s PC Synchro Terminal is compatible with plugs that have a positive (+) polarity on the central pin and a negative (-) polarity on the shield. If the plug has reverse polarity, use a commercially-available polarity conversion cord.

  • Page 85: Custom Mode

    If [Applied Rotate] in [ Playback Menu] (P.28) is set to [Off], the vertically oriented images are displayed horizontally. WARNING !! • If the images are taken while the camera is pointed up or down, the vertical position information may not be recorded properly. CUSTOM MODE It is possible to customize the Custom Mode Setting.
  • Page 86 SAVE THE CUSTOM MODE SETTING Set the above settings to your desired combination. In [ Camera Settings] (P.28) → [Custom Mode Setting], select from C1, C2 or C3 by using buttons. After selecting, press the button. A confirmation dialog will appear. Press the button to save the settings or to close the confirmation dialog...

  • Page 87: Reviewing, Deleting And Modifying Images

    • The SD1 Merrill may not be able to display images captured by other cameras, or “SD1 Merrill” images that have been renamed or moved from the DCIM folder on the card. For more information on SD1 Merrill file names, see File Numbering System (See P.108).

  • Page 88: Reviewing Images

    If there are no images on the card an error message will be displayed. • Since the SD1 Merrill camera does not have a separate "playback mode" for looking at captured images, it is always ready to take pictures, even while...

  • Page 89: Viewing One Image At A Time

    VIEWING ONE IMAGE AT A TIME Press button on the back of the camera to see recorded images in Single- Image View. While in Single-Image View: Rotate the A-dial ( ) to the right to see the next image. Rotate the A-dial ( ) to the left to see the previous image.

  • Page 90: Magnifying Images (Zoomed-In View)

    MAGNIFYING IMAGES (ZOOMED-IN VIEW) Reviewed images can be magnified, making it possible to check image details and focusing. While reviewing images, rotate the S-dial ) to the position. The magnification ratio will be changed as follows. Original→X1.25→X1.6→X2.0→X2.5→X3.15 →X4.0→X5.0→X6.3→X8.0→X10.0 WHILE IN ZOOMED-IN VIEW: Rotate the S-dial ( ) to the position to increase magnification.

  • Page 91: Viewing Nine Images At A Time (Contact Sheet View)

    VIEWING NINE IMAGES AT A TIME (CONTACT SHEET VIEW) Images can be viewed in a "contact sheet" of nine thumbnail images. While reviewing images, rotate the S-dial ) to the position. WHILE IN CONTACT SHEET VIEW: Press the buttons to change the thumbnail image selection. Rotate the A-dial ( ) to the right to select the next thumbnail image.

  • Page 92: Viewing Image Information

    VIEWING IMAGE INFORMATION The Image Info Screen contains additional information about each image. Press the button from Single-Image or Contact Sheet View. 1 Battery Level Indicator 16 Exposure Compensation Value Flash Exposure Compensation 2 Image Size Value * 1 3 Image Quality 18 Metering Mode 4 Folder numbering 19 Contrast...

  • Page 93: Magnified Images In Image Info Screen

    In AF mode, the AF point which was used to achieve focusing will be illuminated in red. If the picture was taken without focusing, the AF points will not be illuminated in red. In MF mode, if the picture was taken with a focus indicator lit, that AF point will be illuminated in red.

  • Page 94: Histogram

    HISTOGRAM The histogram is a graph depicting the distribution of brightness values in the image for each of the three color channels (Red, Green, and Blue). The horizontal axis shows the brightness level, with darker pixels towards the left side and brighter pixels toward the right. The vertical axis shows the proportion of pixels at each level of brightness.

  • Page 95: Over-Exposure Warning

    CAUTION!! • The histogram displayed in the Quick Preview is the distribution of tones in the image. • When JPEG files taken with B&W or Sepia Color Mode are shown, the histgram displayed is the distribution of tones in the image. OVER-EXPOSURE WARNING It is possible to indicate the over-exposed areas by highlighting them in red.

  • Page 96: Viewing Images On A Tv

    Turn on the camera and the video device. WARNING !! • Please do not use any AV cable other than provided with your Sigma SD1 Merrill camera, when connecting a video input terminal. Using other brands may cause damage. •...

  • Page 97: Deleting Images

    DELETING IMAGES This section describes how to delete the image(s) recorded on a card. Images recorded on the card can be deleted one at a time or several at once using the Delete Menu. DELETE AN IMAGE WITH THE DELETE BUTTON A single image that is displaying can be deleted by pressing the button.

  • Page 98: Delete Images From The Delete Menu

    • To erase all files from the card, including locked images as well as all non-SD1 Merrill files, use the “FORMATTING THE CARD” menu item in the camera Set-up Menu (see P.41).

  • Page 99: Other Reviewing Features

    OTHER REVIEWING FEATURES This section explains how to use Slideshow, Lock, Mark, Rotate and so on. LOCKING IMAGES Locking protects images from being accidentally deleted. Locked images must be unlocked before they can be deleted by the Delete Menu functions. LOCK MENU Lock the currently selected image only.
  • Page 100 TO LOCK A SINGLE IMAGE Display the image that you wish to lock. Press the button and open [ Playback Menu] (P.28) to select [Lock].( [Lock] in the sub-menu is already selected.) Press the button or button. A key icon will appear in the image indicating that the image is locked.

  • Page 101: Marking Images

    Mark all images on the card. Mark All Unmark all marked images on the card. Unmark All It can be activated without viewing images. • Images marked on the camera will retain their marked status when viewed in SIGMA Photo Pro.
  • Page 102 TO MARK A SINGLE IMAGE Display the image that you wish to mark. Press the button and open [ Playback Menu] (P.28) to select [Mark]. ([Mark] in the sub-menu is already selected.) Press the button. ● A flag icon will appear in the image indicating that the image is marked.

  • Page 103: Rotating Images

    A flag icon will appear in all marked images. ● • Select [Unmark All] from the Mark Menu to unmark all marked images on the card. WARNING !! • When [Mark All] or [Unmark All] is done, it may take much time to finish them depending on the number of files in the card.
  • Page 104 (See P.104) • Images rotated on the camera will be displayed in their rotated orientation in SIGMA Photo Pro. WARNING !! • When [Applied Rotate] in [ Playback Menu] (P.28) is set to [Off], it is not...

  • Page 105: Using The Ok Button Shortcut

    USING THE OK BUTTON SHORTCUT It is possible to allocate a function from the Playback Menu to the button. The allocated function can be changed by pressing the button. Please set from [ Playback Menu] (P.28) → [OK Shortcut]. Available functions to allocate to the button.

  • Page 106: Showing A Slideshow

    SHOWING A SLIDESHOW All images on the card, or only selected images, can be shown in an automatic playback mode using the SD1 Merrill camera’s Slideshow feature. SLIDESHOW MENU Start an automated slideshow of all images on the All Images card.
  • Page 107 NOTE • When the slideshow is stopped, the last image will continue to be displayed. CHAGING SLIDESHOW SETTINGS Select [Slideshow Settings] Slideshow Menu and then press the button to open the setting display. SLIDESHOW SETTING MENU 2 sec. Set the length of time that each image in a Duration 5 sec.

  • Page 108: Dpof (Digital Print Order Format)

    DPOF (DIGITAL PRINT ORDER FORMAT) When printing images at a photo lab, it is possible to specify which photos and quantity to print in advance, using the DPOF menu. This is also available when making prints using a DPOF compatible printer. WARNING !! •...

  • Page 109: Changing Other Settings

    4-digit file number and extension. For example: image number 0023 will be stored in the file SDIM0023.X3F. All SD1 Merrill image files will be stored to ###SIGMA folder of the DCIM folder in the card. When [ Capture Settings] (P.28) →...

  • Page 110: Capture Setting Display

    WARNING !! When Folder numbering / File numbering has reached “999-9999”, even if the card has greater capacity, the message [Cannot allocate file or folder number. Please replace a card.] will be displayed and it will not be possible to take any more pictures. Please replace the card to continue taking pictures.

  • Page 111: Customize The Dial

    WARNING !! When [Capture Setting Display] is set to [ ] and Function Display or Quick Set Menu are on, the color LCD monitor will be turned off if one of the Capture Setting buttons is pressed. CUSTOMIZE THE DIAL It is possible to switch the functions of the dials and reverse their rotation direction for exposure settings.

  • Page 112: Lcd Off And Auto Power Off

    LCD OFF AND AUTO POWER OFF The SD1 Merrill has [LCD Off] and [Auto Power Off] functions in order to conserve battery power. If not used for a predetermined amount of time, the color LCD monitor or power will be turned off automatically.

  • Page 113: Af Micro Adjustment

    • It may be impossible to set up lenses which were released after the SD1 Merrill camera was released. In that case, updating Lens information is required. Please confirm the latest information from our website.
  • Page 114 SETTING THE AF MICRO ADJUSTMENT Mount the desired lens to your camera. Select [AF Micro Adjustment] from [ Camera Settings] (P.28). Select [Setting…] in the sub-menu and open AF Micro Setting Display by pressing the button.. Adjust the value using the buttons.

  • Page 115: Reset To The Defaults

    RESET TO THE DEFAULTS It is possible to reset the settings to the defaults. Press the button to select [Camera reset] in [ Camera Settings] (P.28). Use the button to display a confirmation dialog. Press to reset the settings to default or to close the confirmation dialog without resetting.

  • Page 116: Reference

    Please adjust the focus manually.) EYEPIECE DIOPTRIC CORRECTION LENSES The SD1 Merrill has a built-in type “Diopter Adjuster” and its range is –3 ~ +1.5dpt, if you still cannot see the viewfinder clearly, then please purchase a viewfinder diopter adjustment eyepiece.

  • Page 117: Maintenance

    CLEANING THE IMAGE SENSOR Although the SD1 Merrill is equipped with a dust protector to prevent dust or dirt entering the camera, in rare circumstances, dust or dirt may adhere to the image sensor, causing black spots to appear on images. If this occurs, it may be necessary to clean the image sensor.
  • Page 118 WARNING!! • After cleaning the image sensor, please ensure the dust protector is correctly attached. If the dust protector is not properly attached, it may move and damage the image sensor of the camera or the lens. • Please do not use the blower with the brush for cleaning the image sensor. If the bruch is attached, it may scratch the image sensor of the camera.
  • Page 119 Set the D-dial to the Drive Area and press the button to select [Cleaning Mode] in [ Camera Settings] (P.28). A confirmation dialog will appear by pressing the button. By pressing again, the shutter will open and you will be able to see the image sensor.

  • Page 120: Explanation Of Terms

    Large aperture (low f-number) gives bright results and, small aperture (high f-number) gives darker results. Auto Power-Off For saving the battery power, the SD1 Merrill camera can automatically turn itself off, if you do not operate it.
  • Page 121 CMOS Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) can perform signal amplication on a per-pixel basis. Significant current flows only during the switching operation. Therefore a CMOS image sensor can scan data rapidly, sustain high-speed operation and consume less energy. Recent technological and production improvements in digital imaging systems are making CMOS more and more competitive in terms of image quality and cost.
  • Page 122 NTSC National Television Standards Committee (NTSC) video format is primarily used in the United States, Japan, Canada etc. The NTSC is a standard for television and videos, which defines a composite video signal with a refresh rate of 60 half-frames (interlaced) per second. Each frame contains 525 lines and can contain 16 million different colors.

  • Page 123: Warning Displays

    Delete unwanted photos, choose a lower resolution setting, or use a different card. (P.39-40) (P.96-97) “No images on Memory card” ► To review images, insert a card with valid SD1 Merrill images, capture new images onto the card, or press button again to turn off display. “Cannot preview this image”...

  • Page 124: Troubleshooting

    TROUBLESHOOTING If you have a problem with your camera or cannot take good pictures, consult the list below as you check the camera before requesting repairs. Nothing is displayed on the color LCD monitor. Battery is exhausted. ► Replace the battery. (P.19-22) Battery is improperly installed.
  • Page 125 The color LCD monitor is worn out. ► Please consult the retailer from which you purchased the camera or contact the nearest Sigma Service Center. Pictures are coming out blurred The AF/M switch on the lens body is set to M.

  • Page 126: Specifications

    Storage Media CompactFlash™ (Type I, UDMA compatible) Image Sensor Size 23.5 x 15.7mm Lenses Used SIGMA SA mount interchangeable lenses Equivalent to approx.1.5 times the focal length of the Picture Angle lens (for 35mm cameras) Lens Mount SIGMA SA bayonet mount Imaging Element Type Foveon X3®...

  • Page 127: Connecting Your Camera To A Computer

    700 / 24.7oz (without battery) CONNECTING YOUR CAMERA TO A COMPUTER The SD1 Merrill camera can be connected directly to a computer using the provided USB cable. Make sure that the camera is off before connecting it to the computer. Data transfer rates will vary depending on the computer and operating system used.
  • Page 128 Operation is subject to the following two conditions: FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and SIGMA CORPORATION OF AMERICA (2) this device must accept any interference received, 15 Fleetwood Court, Ronkonkoma, including interference that may cause undesired NY 11779, U.S.A.

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