The Sigma FP2 brings significant upgrades to the ‘world’s smallest’ full-frame camera

This camera now offers faster autofocus with bird recognition and internal ProRes RAW recording, potentially enhancing wildlife and professional video workflows.

Sigma has launched the FP2, an updated version of its compact full-frame mirrorless camera, seven years after the original. The new model retains a similar body size, though it is slightly heavier. Key upgrades include a new 24.5-megapixel, partially stacked, back-side illuminated CMOS sensor offering faster data reading, reduced rolling shutter, and improved autofocus with bird recognition. It supports 20fps still shooting and video recording up to 6K at 60fps or 4K at 120fps (cropped). The FP2 features an articulating 3.2-inch LCD touchscreen, a full-size HDMI port, and two USB-C ports, one supporting 10Gbps for external SSD recording in ProRes RAW. It also includes 70GB of internal storage and a battery offering 30% longer life. The Sigma FP2 will be available on November 11th, with the body-only price starting at $2,199, and bundles with an upgraded viewfinder or a 50mm lens available for $2,749.

The Sigma FP2's advancements, particularly its faster sensor readout and improved autofocus with bird recognition, signal a move towards more capable hybrid cameras in the compact segment. The addition of a 10Gbps USB-C port for external SSD recording in ProRes RAW directly addresses the needs of high-end video production, making this small camera a more viable option for professional shoots where data transfer speed and video quality are paramount.

This release suggests that manufacturers are prioritizing speed and professional video features even in their smallest full-frame offerings, aiming to capture a broader market. The enhanced battery life and improved cooling also indicate a focus on usability for extended shooting sessions, which has been a limitation for previous compact, power-hungry cameras.