Thank you for purchasing the Sigma Digital Autofocus Camera The Sigma SD14 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 SD14 delivers superior-quality digital images by combining Sigma’s extensive interchangeable lens line-up with the revolutionary Foveon X3 image sensor.
NOTES ON COPYRIGHT This camera is intended only for personal use and should never be used in a way that infringes upon or contravenes international or domestic copyright laws and regulations. In addition, although it is intended purely for personal use, some restrictions may be applied to the photographing of demonstrations, performances, shows, exhibitions, or commercial properties, etc. Copyright or other legal rights should not be contravened. FOVEON is a registered trademark of Foveon, Inc.
TABLE OF CONTENTS PACKAGE CONTENTS / ACCESSORIES ..................................................... 2 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ............................................................................... 6 HANDLING PRECAUTIONS .......................................................................... 8 DESCRIPTION OF THE PARTS....................................................................11 TOP LCD PANEL ..........................................................................................
FUNCTION SETTING OF FLASH ................................................................ 45 FOCUSING .............................................................................................. 46 HOW TO USE AUTOFOCUS........................................................................ 46 SELECTING THE AUTOFOCUS MODE ...................................................... 47 AF POINT SELECTION ................................................................................ 48 AF AUXILIARY LIGHT .....
VIEWING NINE IMAGES AT A TIME (CONTACT SHEET VIEW) ................. 79 VIEWING IMAGES A PAGE AT A TIME (JUMP MODE) ............................... 80 VIEWING IMAGE INFORMATION................................................................ 81 IMAGE INFO SCREEN FOR MAGNIFIED IMAGES .................................... 82 HISTOGRAM ................................................................................................ 83 OVER-EXPOSURE WARNING .........................................................
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS To avoid causing damage or injury, please read this instruction manual carefully, before using the camera. Please take special note of the following two cautionary symbols. the product and disregarding this warning sign may Warning !! Using cause serious injury or other dangerous results. Using the product disregarding this caution sign may cause Caution !! injury or damage. This symbol denotes warning or point, where caution is required.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS The AC Adapter is designed for use with this product only. Do not use it with any other appliance. Doing so may cause overheating, fire, electric shock or injury. If the adapter is emitting smoke, generating a strange odor or making an abnormal noise, while in use, disconnect the power plug from the outlet immediately. Otherwise, fire or electric shock may result. If water or a foreign object gets into the adapter, unplug from the AC outlet immediately.
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 the AC adapter from the AC outlet. It could cause fire or electric shock due to damaged cord.
HANDLING PRECAUTIONS Please read this section before using the camera. Study and familiarize yourself with the functions of your camera before using it. No compensation or guarantee is provided for unsatisfactory pictures or loss of profit, etc. Carry spare batteries when you use the camera in a cold environment, on a field trip, or when taking many pictures at one time.
HANDLING PRECAUTIONS HOW TO STORE THE CAMERA If you intend to store the camera for a long time, remove the battery. To avoid growth of fungus, store the camera and lens in a dry, cool and ventilated place, with a drying agent such as silica gel. Keep your equipment away from chemicals. NOTE ON THE TFT COLOR LCD MONITOR A few pixels may always be lit or may never light on the LCD monitor. This is not a failure or malfunction. Images recorded with the camera will not be affected.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PARTS 11
1. AF AUXILIARY LIGHT 2. DUST PROTECTOR 3. LENS MOUNT 4. LENS LOCK BUTTON 5. BATTERY COMPARTMENT COVER 6. BATTERY COMPARTMENT COVER LATCH 7. TRIPOD SOCKET FLASH EXPOSURE COMPERTMENT 8. BUTTON 9. REMOTE CONTROL SENSOR 10. PC SYNCHRO TERMINAL 11. DEPTH-OF-FIELD PREVIEW BUTTON 12. CONNECTOR COVER 13. RELEASE SOCKET 14. FOCAL PLANE MARK 15. HOT SHOE 16. DIOPTER ADJUSTER 17. D-DIAL DRIVE DIAL 18. CAMERA STRAP EYELET (FUNCTION) BUTTON 19. 20. EYEPIECE CUP 21. VIEWFINDER EYEPIECE 22. MODE DIAL 23.
TOP LCD PANEL SHUTTER SPEED APERTURE VALUE COUNTER / SENSITIVITY EXPOSURE MODE AUTO BRACKETING SOUND SETTING METERING MODE EXPOSURE METER AF MODE FLASH MODE FLASH EXPOSURE COMPENSATION BATTERY INDICATOR REMOTE CONTROL VIEWFINDER CENTER AREA METERING AUTO FOCUS FRAME FLASH INDICATOR EXPOSURE METER AUTO BRACKETING FOCUS INDICATOR APERTURE VALUE SHUTTER SPEED 13 AE LOCK INDICATOR
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 PROGRAM AE APERTURE PRIORITY AE SHUTTER SPEED PRIORITY AE MANUAL EXPOSURE SETTING 14
BASIC OPERATION AND QUICK REFERENCE The SD14 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. To insert the battery P.20 Insert the battery into the accordance with the diagram. Mount the lens chamber in (P.24) Align the red mark on the camera’s lens mount with the red dot on the lens.
Set the language (P.26) Set the date and time (P.27) Loading the Compact-Flash Card (P.28) Position the CF card label facing toward the CF card cover as shown in the illustration, and push the CF card gently, all the way into the slot. Turn the “D”-dial to the frame shooting) position. P.51 (single Set the AF/MF switch on the lens to the AF position. (P.
Select the exposure mode P.37 Set the “Mode”-Selector to P “Program AE” position Focus P.46 Determine the composition through the finder, and then press the shutter button “Half-way” to activate exposure metering and autofocus. Take a picture Press the shutter button “All-the way-down” to take a picture Review the image. P.72 The image is displayed for 2 seconds on the LCD monitor.
PREPARATION This section describes necessary preparations before using the camera. ATTACHING THE CARRY STRAP 1 Undo the strap end. 2 Thread the Finder Cap onto the strap. 3 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. 1 Remove the eyecup from the viewfinder. 2 Attach the Finder Cap onto the viewfinder.
LOADING THE BATTERY A lithium ion battery BP-21 is provided with the SD14 camera. Charge the battery, before using the camera first time. Please charge the battery by the supplied battery charger BC-21, when no charge remains. To Charge the battery 1 Connect the power cable to the charger and insert the plug into the wall outlet. 2 Attach the battery, by sliding it in the direction of the arrow, as shown in the diagram. ● Charge lamp will be on during charging.
LOADING THE BATTERY 1 Confirm that the D dial is in the position, and open the cover by sliding the battery compartment cover latch in the direction of the arrow, as shown in the instruction. 2 Insert the battery in accordance with diagram inside the cover. ● Insert the battery until it locks into place. 3 Close the cover securely. ● Push the cover until it clicks into the locked position. WARNING!! It is possible to remove battery cover, if it is tilted around 35 .
TO REMOVE THE BATTERY 1 Turn the “D”- dial to the position, and open the battery compartment cover by sliding battery compartment cover latch in the direction as shown by the arrow. 2 Eject the battery by sliding the battery compartment cover latch in the direction of the arrow, as shown in the illustration. WARNING!! • 21 While the CF Card busy light is on, please do not remove the battery. Doing so can result data loss. Moreover, Camera, CF card and Microdrive may be damaged.
CHECKING THE BATTERY STATUS When “D”-dial is set to drive area (p.14), the battery icon, which shows the capacity of the battery, is shown on the top LCD panel. Explanations of the symbols are given as follows. Battery Status The battery strength is sufficient. The battery level is low and the battery will need to be changed soon. The power of the battery is insufficient, replace the battery immediately. POWER SAVING To conserve the battery, the camera has several power-saving features.
USING A HOME POWER SUPPLY (Sold Separately) You can power the camera from a wall outlet using the provided AC Adapter (SAC-2). When using your camera for an extended period of time, reviewing the pictures or connecting the camera to a computer or cleaning the image sensor, we recommend that you operate the camera from a household power outlet. 1 Connect the AC cable to the AC adapter. 2 Connect the plug of the AC adapter to the camera. , 3 Insert the plug of the AC cable into a wall outlet.
MOUNTING AND REMOVING THE LENS 1 Make sure to turn the “D”-Dial to (Power Off position) position 2 Remove the camera body cap and the rear cap of the lens’. 3 Align the red 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. CAUTION !! • • To ensure a proper connection, do not hold down the lens lock button while mounting the lens.
4 To remove the lens, press the lens lock button and turn the lens counter–clockwise until it stops. Gently remove the lens from the camera body. CAUTION !! • 25 On the mount surface of the lens, there are a number of electrical contacts. Keep them clean to ensure proper connection. To avoid damaging them, be sure to place the lens on its front end when it is off the camera.
SETTING THE LANGUAGE Camera menus and messages that appear on the color LCD monitor can be displayed in either English, Japanese, German or French and other languages. You should receive the SD14 camera pre-set to English, however, if necessary, you can change the camera language yourself. 1 Make sure the camera is turned on. 2 Press the button on the back of the camera to display the Camera Set-up Menu. (See P.104) 3 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select “Language”. 4 Press the sub-menu.
SETTING THE TIME AND DATE The SD14 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. 1 Make sure the camera is turned on. 2 Press the button on the back of the camera to display the Camera Set-up Menu. (See P.
INSERTING AND REMOVING THE CF CARD The SD14 camera uses CompactFlash™ (CF) cards to store images. The camera supports both Type I and Type II CF cards, including Microdrives. TO INSERT THE CF CARD 1 Set the “D”-Dial to the position. 2 Open the CF card cover, as shown in the illustration. 3 Position the CF card with the label facing toward the CF card cover and insert the CF card smoothly, in the direction of the arrow, as far as it can go into the slot. • The eject button will pop out slightly.
TO REMOVE THE CF CARD 1 Set the “D”-Dial to the position. • Make sure that the CF card busy light is off, before continuing. 2 Slide the CF Card Cover until it pops open. 3 Press the Eject button to eject the CF card. 4 Close CF Card Cover and slide it in the direction shown by the arrow until it clicks shut CAUTION !! • Never do any of the following while the CF Card busy light is on. (The CF card busy light indicates when the camera is writing, reading, or erasing images from the CF card.
FORMATTING THE CF CARD New CF cards must be formatted before use. In addition, cards with corrupt or incompatible file systems may need to be formatted before use. TO FORMAT THE CF CARD 1 Make sure the camera is turned on. 2 Press the button on the back of the camera to display the Camera Set-up Menu. (See P.104) 3 Use arrows on the 4-way controller to select “Format CF Card…”. 4 Press dialog.
FILE NUMBERING SYSTEM The images you take are automatically assigned file numbers from 0001 to 9999. When images are being reviewed, the file number of each image is displayed in the left corner of the Info Strip (see P.77). The file number is also incorporated into the filename of the image. The filename consists of “SDIM” followed by the 4-digit file number and extension. For example: image number 0023 will be stored in the file SDIM0023.X3F.
5 Use arrows on the 4-way controller to select numbering system. 6 Press arrow or to apply the setting or arrow or to close the sub-menu without making any changes. FOLDER MANAGER You can create and choose folders in which photographs will be stored. 1 Turn the “D”-dial to the drive area to turn on the camera. 2 Press the button on the back of the camera to display the Camera Set-up Menu. P.104 3 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select “Folder Manager”.
NOTE • • • • The images will be receorded in the latest created folder. In the case of File number being set to Continuous, the number of recording image will be consecutive number. In the case of File number being set to Auto reset, the number will start from 0001. You can select a folder number from the consecutive number of the latest folder number to 999. It is not possible to create folder numbers lower than the latest folder number.
If a CF-card is not inserted into the camera, 0 on the LCD panel. appears When the camera is turned on and occupied with the image processing, the frame number value blinks on the top LCD panel. A cursor will be in motion on the frame number value to show the progress. The shutter will not release when the camera is busy with processing. It is necessary to await the end of the processing before taking a picture.
TOP LCD ILLUMINATION Pressing the “Top LCD Illumination Button” activates the orange color LCD illuminator, allowing the Top LCD display to be read in the dark. NOTE • • • • The top LCD illumination will not function if the camera is in Power Saving Mode (P.22). Press the shutter button “halfway down” to activate the exposure meter of the camera (aperture and shutter speed values will be shown on the LCD monitor). If the shutter button is pressed, the top LCD illumination will be turned off.
SHUTTER BUTTON The shutter button of the SD14 cameras has two positions. When you press the shutter button “halfway down”, 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. TIP • Before you start to take pictures, we recommend that you operate the camera, to become familiar with the “halfway down” position and other features of the camera.
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 of shutter speed and aperture value, according to the brightness of the subject. 1 Set the “D”-Dial to the “Drive Area” (P.14). 2 Set the “Mode”-Dial to the P position.
When this symbol blinks, shutter speed may be too slow and picture may be blurred. In this case, please use a flash (P.43) or use 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. While turning the “C”-Dial, the combination of shutter speed and aperture value will change within the range of combinations that give the equivalent exposure.
A APERTURE PRIORITY AE After you set the aperture, 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. 1 Set the “D”-Dial to “Drive–Area” (P.14). 2 Set the “Mode”-Dial to the A position 3 Press the shutter button “Half-Way” to verify the focus, and select the desired aperture value by turning the “C” –Dial. 4 Verify the setting in the viewfinder.
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. 1 Set the “D”-Dial to the “Drive –Area” (P.14). 2 Set the “mode”-Dial to the “S” position.
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. 1 Set the “D”-Dial to the “Drive-Area” (P.14). 2 Set the “Mode”-Dial to the “M” position. 3 Press the shutter button “Half-Way” to verify the focus, and rotate C dial to select the desired shutter speed. 4 While pressing button, rotate C dial to select the desired aperture. 5 Verify the settings in the viewfinder.
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. Bulb photography can be performed only when ISO sensitivity is set to ISO100 and 200. (Please refer to P.57 about setting ISO sensitivity.) 1 Set the “D”-Dial on the “Drive Area” (P.14). 2 Set the “Mode”-Dial to the “M” position.
USING THE BUILT-IN FLASH The cameras have built-in flash for taking pictures at night or in low light, which is very convenient. USING THE BUILT-IN FLASH P mode, use this mode for automatic photography. The flash sync speed and aperture are set automatically. If the subject is too dark, the flash indicator ” ” in viewfinder will blink, then you can take a flash exposure by following. 1 Grasp the built-in flash (see picture) and lift it up gently. 2 Wait for the viewfinder.
EXPOSURE MODE AND BUILT-IN FLASH P mode Depending on the brightness of the subject, the most appropriate shutter speed (between 1/60 1/180 sec) and aperture will be selected. In bright situations, the flash will be “daylight synchronization flash”, and the camera will calculate the appropriate flash amount for the correct exposure, of both the subject and background. If the ambient light is too great, resulting in overexposure, the shutter speed and aperture value displays will blink.
FUNCTION SETTING OF FLASH In addition to regular flash photography, the built-in flash also incorporates redeye reduction function. Further it is also possible to use it during the wireless TTL flash mode if you purchase an optional external flash unit (DG SUPER SA-STTL only). 1 Press the button 3 times and hold. The Do LCD panel will display the flash mark button. not release the 2 Continue holding the button and turn the “C”-dial to select the flash mode desired.
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). SETTING THE AUTOFOCUS MODE 1 Set the focus mode switch of the lens, to AF.
SELECTING THE AUTOFOCUS MODE Press the FUNC button twice (holding the button down the second time) and turn the “C”-dial to select either (Single AF Mode) or (Continuous Mode) icon on the LCD panel. SINGLE AF MODE Depress and hold the shutter button “Half-way” to activate the autofocus function. In order to avoid out of focus exposures, the shutter cannot be released until the subject is in focus. This is called “focus priority”.
AF POINT SELECTION The SD14 is equipped with 5 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 “C”-dial displayed in the viewfinder. The Selected AF point will be illuminated in red in the viewfinder. Automatic AF point selection can be achieved when the five focusing points in the viewfinder are illuminated in red.
AF AUXILIARY LIGHT The built-in AF Auxiliary Light of the SD14 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. The effective distance of the AF Auxiliary Light is 3m. CAUTION!! • • • The lens hood must be removed when the AF Auxiliary Light is used.
FOCUS LOCK This photography method is useful if a photographic subject is not positioned within the central AF frame. 1 Choose the AF point according to the "AF POINT SELECTION” instructions on page 48. 2 Position the photographic subject into the selected AF frame, and focus by pressing the shutter button half-way. 3 Keep the shutter button depressed half-way while you compose the picture as desired. Then press the shutter button the rest of the way to take picture.
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.
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: RES (Recording mode) Super Hi HI MED 6 12 3.0 3.0 6 6 12 FINE QUAL 3.0 3.0 3.0 (Recording quality) NORM 6 6 12 3.0 3.0 3.0 6 6 12 BASIC 3.0 3.0 3.
After you decide the composition of your picture, press the shutter button ”Half-way” and adjust the focusing. Then, when you press the shutter button the rest of the way, the display in the viewfinder will disappear and the self –timer will be activated. During the self-timer operation you will hear an electronic beeping sound. The beeping sound will be much faster during the last two seconds, before the shutter is released. The LCD panel will also countdown the remaining time.
ADVANCED OPERATION This section explains the application of the more advanced functions of your camera, when composing the expressions of your picture. SETTING THE WHITE BALANCE WB The color of light reflected by an object can vary depending on the color of the light source illuminating it. For example, a neutral colored object will reflect reddish light under incandescent lighting, and greenish light under fluorescent lighting.
1 Make sure the camera is turned on. 2 Press the Image Setting Button ( open the quick set menu. ) to 3 The desired mode can be chosen by pressing the ( ) button of the 4-way controller. -------------- 4 A photograph can be taken when the shutter button is pressed half-way and this will determine the white balance mode. (alternatively, the mode can be chosen by pushing the button ). If Custom White Balance ( will be used for shooting.
SETTING A CUSTOM WHITE BALANCE For more precise control of the white balance setting or when photographing under unusual lighting conditions, the "Set Custom WB" option can be used to capture a sample of neutral object in a scene to be used for color correction. 1 Make sure that "D"-dial is set to Single Frame Shooting . 2 Press the button on the back of the camera to display the Camera Set-up Menu. (See P.104) 3 Use arrows on the 4-way controller to select “Set Custom WB”.
TIP • • • When a custom white balance setting is successfully captured, "Custom" will automatically become the selected item in the White Balance menu. It is recommended that an automatic exposure mode such as P, A, or S be used when capturing a custom white balance setting to ensure proper exposure. It may be necessary to set the lens to manual focus (P.50) when capturing a custom white balance setting since auto focus may not work properly when photographing low contrast subjects.
IMAGE FILE SETTING The file size changes depending on resolution mode and recording quality selected. RES (Resolution mode) Super Hi HI 4608 3072 2640 1760 RAW (RAW) FINE QUAL (JPEG) (Recording quality) NORM (JPEG) BASIC (JPEG) MED 1776 1184 LOW 1296 864 13.3MB 6.6MB 3.3MB 7.5MB 3.3MB 1.6MB 0.8MB 4.6MB 1.9MB 0.9MB 0.5MB 3.2MB 1.3MB 0.6MB 0.3MB The file sizes change depending on subjects. RECORDING IMAGES It is possible to record images in the widely used JPEG or RAW formats.
RECORDING QUALITY SETTING 1 Press the button on the back of the camera to open the Image Setting Menu. 2 Use the button on the 4-way controller to select the desired recording quality. (The quality can be changed; RAW → FINE → NORM → BASIC by pressing the button. The recording quality turns yellow, during recording.) 3 Press the shutter button halfway or button to apply the setting. Then you can take the picture.
1 Press the button on the back of the camera to access the setup menu. P.104 2 Press the button on the 4-way controller to select “Adjust Setting”. 3 Press the button on the 4-way controller or button to open the sub menu. the 4 Use the button to select the desired parameter from the scroll menu. 5 Press the button on the 4-way controller or the button to open the Adjust Setting Menu. 6 Use the button on the 4-way controller to select the desired value.
SELECTING THE METERING MODE The camera has three advanced metering modes. While pressing the button, rotate the “C”-dial to select the desired metering mode and display it on the LCD panel. Releasing the metering button sets the selected metering mode. 8 SEGMENT METERING The camera measures the brightness of the scene by independently measuring each segment of the focusing screen and analyzing the correct exposure for the main subject under any lighting situation.
AE LOCK The camera will fix and memorize the exposure value, while you press the “AE” Lock button. When you wish to lock the exposure of a subject off-center, AE lock is very useful. Use of this function with Center Area Metering Mode is recommended. 1 Center the subject inside the viewfinder, then press the shutter button “Half-way”. 2 Keep shutter button “Half-way” depressed, and then push the “AE” lock button.
EXPOSURE COMPENSATION If you want to intentionally overexpose or underexpose the picture, use this function. While pressing button, turn the “C”-dial to set the desired compensation value. Then, release the Exposure Compensation button. The LCD panel will show “ 0.0” when you initially press the exposure compensation button. The “ ” indicates overexposure, and “ ” indicates underexposure. Exposure compensation can be set in 1/3EV increments from +3.0 to –3.0 stops. For example, if you set +1.
FLASH EXPOSURE COMPENSATION It is possible to compensate the flash output level without changing the background’s exposure. While pressing the button, turn the ”C”-dial to set the compensation amount. The LCD panel will show 0.0 when you initially press the button. indicates underexposure. indicates over exposure Exposure compensation can then be set in 1/3 increments from +3.0 to –3.0 stops. mark will be displayed in the top LCD panel after setting the compensation amount.
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. 1 Set the “D”-dial to position. 2 Turn the “C”-dial to set the bracketing amount. (It can be set in 1 ⁄ 3 EV step increments up to ±3 EV). 3 Set the “D”-dial to drive area (P.14).
For the first frame, “ ” mark will be displayed continuously on the LCD ” mark on the LCD panel, will blink slowly, panel. For the second frame, “ then it will blink quickly for the third frame. When you set the self-timer mode, the camera will automatically take three consecutive pictures. It is possible to change the drive mode during the Auto Bracketing operation. But if you set the self-timer mode, the camera will take three continuous pictures.
REMOTE CONTROLLER RS-31 This accessory permits releasing the camera’s shutter from up to 16 feet (5m) away from in front of the camera, or up to 9.8 feet (3m) away if you are 30 degrees to either side. (Depending on the lens, there may be some restrictions when using it from the left side of the camera.) All without wires or cables. Description of Parts Transmit Button Time Delay Selector Transmitting diode Channel Selector OPERATION SETTING OF THE REMOTE CONTROLLER 1 Select the delay time.
The remote control mode cannot be used together with continuous shooting mode. If the “D”-dial is set to the continuous shooting mode, the camera will expose only one frame for each activation by the remote controller. The remote controller may not work properly if strong sunlight is shining directly on the camera’s remote control sensor. The camera will switch itself off after about 5 minutes of inactivity, while in the remote control mode.
WARNING !! • If you have set the SD14’s channel to remote control mode, camera’s battery consumption will increase. In addition, camera’s exposure display will disappear and AE Lock will not function. If you are not using Remote Control please cancel the “ “ remote control mode by choosing “- -“. DEPTH-OF-FIELD PREVIEW BUTTON Normally, the lens’ aperture is always fully opened, except at the time the picture is actually taken, for looking through the viewfinder under maximum brightness conditions.
FLASH PHOTOGRAPHY ELECTRONIC FLASH EF-500 DG SUPER SA-STTL (Sold Separately) ELECTRONIC FLASH EF-500 DG ST SA-STTL (Sold Separately) Optional Sigma Electronic Flashes EF-500 DG SUPER SA-STTL and EF-500 DG ST SA-STTL with the STTL system allow you to use features such as Auto Flash with the SD14. The EF-500 DG SUPER SA-STTL lets you do even more, such as use Multi Flash and other advanced features. EF-500 DG SUPER SA-N, EF-500 DG ST SA-STTL High light output.
The SD14 is equipped with a PC Synchro Terminal, which accepts a cable connection fro external/studio flash units. CAUTION!! • • • S-TTL auto flash does not work, if PC Synchro Terminal is used. Set the camera’s exposure mode to M and set to flash synchronized speed Sync (1/180) or a shutter speed of 1/160 or lower. See the instruction manual of the particular flash used for additional information.
REVIEWING, DELETING AND MODIFYING IMAGES This section explains how to review, delete, and modify images after they have been captured. TIP • The SD14 may not be able to display images captured by other cameras, or “SD14” images that have been renamed or moved from the DCIM folder on the CF card. For more information on SD14 file names, see File Numbering System (See P.31). QUICK PREVIEW The SD14 camera can be set to automatically display a preview of each image immediately after it is taken.
TO CHANGE PREVIEW DURATION 1 Make sure the camera is turned on. 2 Press the button on the back of the camera to display the Camera Set-up Menu. (See P.104) 3 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select “Quick Preview”. 4 Press the arrow or to open sub-menu. 5 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select duration. 6 Press the arrow or to apply the setting or the arrow or to close sub-menu without making any changes.
CHANGING THE QUICK PREVIEW STYLE The preview image can be a full-screen image or an Image Info Screen. the Camera Set-up Menu to change Quick Preview style. Use PREVIEW STYLE OPTIONS OPTION DESCRIPTION Image only (Default) Full-screen image Info screen Image Info Screen TO CHANGE PREVIEW STYLE 1 Make sure the camera is turned on. 2 Press the button on the back of the camera to display the Camera Set-up Menu. (See P.104) 3 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select “Preview Style”.
QUICK DELETE Undesirable images can be deleted as soon as their preview is displayed. TO DELETE A PREVIEW IMAGE 1 Press while the Quick Preview image is displayed. • The Quick Delete confirmation dialog will open. 2 Press to delete the image or to close the confirmation dialog without deleting the image. • If the image is deleted, the confirmation window will close and the color LCD monitor will turn off.
REVIEWING IMAGES The pictures captured by the SD14 can be reviewed in various ways. To review images captured by the SD14 camera press the button on the back of the camera. The last image recorded on the CF card will be displayed on the color LCD monitor in Single-Image View. TO REVIEW IMAGES Press button on the back of the camera to turn on LCD monitor and display image. • Pressing monitor.
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: • Press arrow on the 4-way controller to see next image. • Press arrow on the 4-way controller to see previous image. • Press arrow on the 4-way controller to change the indicated information. It is possible to select the information bar from the following three patterns.
MAGNIFYING IMAGES (ZOOMED-IN VIEW) To view image detail or check focus, recorded images can be magnified up to 5 levels, depending on the resolution of the image. TO MAGNIFY IMAGE Press on the Single-Image View. Controller from While in Zoomed-in View: • Press on the Controller to increase magnification. on the Controller to decrease magnification. • Press arrows on the 4-way controller to pan around the image. • Press the to return to Single-Image View.
VIEWING NINE IMAGES AT A TIME (CONTACT SHEET VIEW) Images can be viewed in a "contact sheet" of nine thumbnail images. TO GO TO CONTACT SHEET VIEW Press on the Single-Image View. Controller from While in Contact Sheet View: • Use the • Press • Press arrows on the 4-way controller to change the image selection. on the Controller to return to Single-Image View. on the Controller to go to Jump Mode.
VIEWING IMAGES A PAGE AT A TIME (JUMP MODE) Use Jump Mode to browse large sets of images more quickly, or to skip right to the first or last page of images on the CF card. TO GO TO JUMP MODE Press on the Controller twice from Single-Image View (or once from Contact Sheet View). While in Jump Mode: arrow on the 4-way controller to jump to the next page of images. • Press the • Press the arrow on the 4-way controller to jump to the previous page of images.
VIEWING IMAGE INFORMATION The Image Info Screen contains additional information about each image. TO DISPLAY IMAGE INFO SCREEN Press the button from Single-Image, Contact Sheet, or Zoomed-In View. Metering mode Exposure compensation AF frame Information bar (P.
IMAGE INFO SCREEN FOR MAGNIFIED IMAGES It is possible to obtain detailed histogram information for a particular section of an image by opening the Image Info Screen from Zoomed-In View. • For more information on the histogram see next section. TO DISPLAY MAGNIFIED IMAGE INFO SCREEN 1 Magnify the image to the desired level and pan to the area of interest. (See P.78) 2 Press INFO .
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. By examining the histogram of the full image, you can gauge the over-all exposure of that image.
OVER-EXPOSURE WARNING It is possible to indicate the over-exposed areas by highlighting them in red. . TO TURN ON OVER-EXPOSURE WARNING 1 Make sure the camera is turned on. 2 Press the button on the back of the camera to display the Camera Set-up Menu. (See P.104) 3 Use arrows on the 4-way controller to select “Exposure Warning”. 4 Press arrow or to open sub-menu. 5 Use arrows on the 4-way controller to select “On”.
VIEWING IMAGES ON A TV The SD14 camera can be connected to a television or a videocassette recorder using the provided video cable, allowing the recorded images to be viewed on the television monitor or recorded on videotape. TO CONNECT THE CAMERA TO A VIDEO DEVICE 1 Open the cover protecting the camera’s VIDEO OUT, DC-IN, and USB connectors. 2 Connect the video cable to the VIDEO OUT terminal on the camera and to the video input terminal on the television or video cassette recorder.
DELETING IMAGES This section describes how to delete the image(s) recorded on a CF card. Images recorded on the CF card can be deleted one at a time or several at once using the Delete Menu. • The Delete Menu can be opened from all views (Single-Image, Contact Sheet, and Zoomed-In), as well as from Jump Mode and the Image Info Screen. TO DISPLAY THE DELETE MENU Press the camera. button on the back of the • Press again or to close the Delete Menu without deleting any images.
DELETING A SINGLE IMAGE TO DELETE A SINGLE IMAGE 1 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select the image to be deleted in Contact Sheet or Single-Image View. 2 Press to display the Delete Menu. • “Current image” will be the default selection. 3 Press to delete the image. • If the image is unlocked, it will be deleted without any further confirmation. • If the image is locked, a confirmation dialog will come up asking if you are sure you want to delete the locked image.
DELETING MULTIPLE IMAGES TO DELETE MULTIPLE IMAGES 1 Press to display the Delete Menu. 2 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select “All marked” or “All”. • Locked images are not deleted. Locked images must be unlocked first before they can be deleted (P90). • If there are no marked images, or all the marked images are locked, the “All marked” menu item will not be available from the Delete Menu. 3 Press to display the confirmation dialog.
MODIFYING IMAGES Image modifications, such as locking, marking, and rotating, as well as automatic image playback, can be performed from the Modification Menu. The Modification Menu contains the Lock Menu, Mark Menu, Rotate Menu, and Slideshow Menu. TO DISPLAY THE MODIFICATION MENU Press the camera. button on the back of the again or to close the • Press Modification Menu without applying any changes.
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 MENU ITEM DESCRIPTION Lock/Unlock Lock the currently selected image only. If the image is already locked, the menu item changes to “Unlock”. (Not available if the Lock Menu is opened from Jump Mode.) Lock all marked Lock all marked images on the CF card. (See P.93 for information on marking images.
TO LOCK A SINGLE IMAGE 1 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select the image to be locked in Contact Sheet or Single-Image View. 2 Press to display the Modification Menu. 3 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select the Lock Menu. 4 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select “Lock”. • If the selected image is already locked, the “Lock” menu item will change to “Unlock”. 5 Press to lock the image.
TO LOCK MULTIPLE IMAGES 1 Press to display the Modification Menu. 2 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select the Lock Menu. 3 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select “Lock all marked” or “Lock all”. • If all images are already locked, the "Lock all" menu item will not be available. 4 Press to display the confirmation dialog. 5 Press to lock the images or press to return to reviewing images without locking. A key icon will appear in the upper-right corner of all locked images.
MARKING IMAGES Images can be marked for various reasons, such as to identify favorites, to select images for a slideshow, or to select images to be deleted with the “All marked” menu item in the Delete Menu (P.88). MARK MENU MENU ITEM DESCRIPTION Mark/Unmark Mark the currently selected image only. If the image is already marked, the menu item changes to “Unmark”. (Not available if the Mark Menu is opened from Jump Mode.) Mark all Mark all images on the CF card.
TO MARK A SINGLE IMAGE 1 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select the image to be marked in Contact Sheet or Single-Image View. 2 Press to display the Modification Menu. 3 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select the Mark Menu. 4 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select “Mark”. • If the selected image is already marked, the “Mark” menu item will change to “Unmark”. 5 Press to mark the image.
MARKING ALL IMAGES 1 Press to display the Modification Menu. 2 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select the Mark Menu. 3 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select “Mark all”. • If all images are already marked, the “Mark all” menu item will not be available. 4 Press to display the confirmation dialog. 5 Press to mark the images or press to return to reviewing images without marking. A flag icon will appear in the upper-right corner of all marked images.
ROTATING IMAGES Images taken with a vertical (portrait) orientation can be rotated for more convenient viewing on the color LCD monitor or on an attached television. The images’ new orientation will be used in all views as well as in the slideshow. TIP • • Rotating an image will make it appear smaller on the display, but will have no effect on the quality of the image data. Images rotated on the camera will be displayed in their rotated orientation in SIGMA Photo Pro.
5 Press to rotate the image and close the Modification Menu or to return to reviewing images without rotating. TIP • • • • 97 To rotate an image 180 degrees, rotate it twice in the same direction. To get an image back into its original orientation, rotate it in the opposite direction. The button can be used as a shortcut key for rotating images. (See P.97) If the Rotate Menu was opened from Jump Mode, both “Rotate” menu items will be unavailable.
USING THE OK BUTTON SHORTCUT The button can be used as a shortcut key for locking, marking, or rotating images. By setting the button to perform the most commonly used operation, images can be easily locked, marked, or rotated with a single button press. Alternatively, the button shortcut can be used to temporarily toggle the over-exposure overlay on or off. TO SET THE OK SHORTCUT 1 Press the button on the back of the camera to display the Camera Set-up Menu. (See P.
TO USE THE OK SHORTCUT 1 Press to see recorded images. 2 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select an image . 3 Press to lock, mark, or rotate the image or toggle exposure warning (depending on the shortcut setting). TIP • • 99 If the shortcut is set to “Lock”, images that are already locked can be unlocked by pressing the button. Similarly, if the shortcut is set to “Mark”, images that are already marked can be unmarked by pressing the button.
SHOWING A SLIDESHOW All images on the CF card, or only selected images, can be shown in an automatic playback mode using the SD14 camera’s Slideshow feature. SLIDESHOW MENU MENU ITEM Resume show DESCRIPTION Resume a stopped slideshow. (Not available if there is no slideshow to resume) Show all Start an automated slideshow of all images on the CF card. Show marked Start an automated slideshow of all marked images on the CF card.
TIP • • • • The , , , and Controller will not work while a slideshow is in progress. To get additional information on an image, delete an image, or modify an image, press to stop the slideshow. The Auto Power Off and LCD Sleep functions are disabled during slideshow playback. It is recommended that the camera be powered with the provided AC adapter during automatic slideshow playback to avoid draining the battery.
TO STOP/PAUSE A SLIDESHOW Press to stop a slideshow and return to the previous view (Single-Image, Contact Sheet, etc.). • The image that the slideshow stops on will become the currently selected image. TO RESUME A STOPPED SLIDESHOW 1 Press to display the Modification Menu. 2 Use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select the Slideshow Menu. 3 If not already selected, use the arrows on the 4-way controller to select “Resume show”. 4 Press to close the Modification Menu and resume the slideshow.
CHANGING SLIDESHOW SETTINGS You can customize slideshows by setting the length of time that images will be displayed and specifying whether or not the slideshow will repeat itself continuously. SETTING Duration Repeat OPTIONS 2 sec (default), 5 sec, 10 sec, Manual DESCRIPTION Yes (default), No Set whether the slideshow loops continuously or stops on the last image. Set the length of time that each image in a slideshow is displayed.
CAMERA SET-UP MENU This section describes the various settings in the Camera Set-up Menu. USING THE CAMERA SET-UP MENU The Set-up Menu contains two types of menu items; items followed by an ellipsis (…) open dialog windows, all other items open sub-menus listing the setting options. TO DISPLAY SET-UP MENU Press the camera. button on the back of the • Press again to close the Set-up Menu and turn off the color LCD monitor.
LIST OF MENU FUNCTIONS Menu Item Options Description Page Set Custom WB… [Dialog] Captures the image to be used for the custom white balance setting. 56,57 Adjust Setting Contrast Sharpness Saturation Color Space Sets image parameter and color 59~60 space. Date/Time… [Dialog] Sets the date and time in the camera’s internal clock and the format in which the date and time will be displayed. 27 Language/ English * Sets the language in which menus and messages will be displayed.
Format CF Card… [Dialog] Formats the CF card. (Formatting will erase all data on the card.) 30 File Numbering Continuous * Auto reset Sets the file numbering system used when a new CF card is inserted in the camera. 31 LCD Brightness Dim Normal * Bright Sets the color brightness. LCD monitor — LCD Contrast High Medium * Low Sets the contrast. LCD monitor — LCD Sleep 30 sec.* 1 min. 2 min. 5 min. 10 min. 15 min. 30 min.
CAMERA INFO PAGE The Camera Info Page can be used to get at-a-glance information about image-capture settings (like ISO, resolution, and white balance) and CF card status. TO VIEW THE CAMERA INFO PAGE 1 Make sure the camera is turned on. 2 Press the page. button to open the camera info 3 Once you are done reviewing your settings, press to close the Camera Info Page and return to the main menu.
REFERENCE OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES REMOTE CONTROLLER RS-31 Wireless remote control, permits releasing the shutter from a place away from the camera. Time for a shutter release can be set up in two stages. Moreover, a setup of a channel is also possible, to avoid interference with other cameras and remote controls. For detailed information please refer page 67 POWER GRIP PG-21 This battery pack extends power capacity of the SD14 two times and can also be used as a vertical position grip.
EYEPIECE DIOPTRIC CORRECTION LENSES The SD14 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. These are series of seven optional accessory lenses, which adjust the camera’s viewfinder to accommodate the vision requirements (near-sightedness or far-sightedness) of different photographers. They attach to the camera’s eyepiece frame.
If you feel qualified to clean the image sensor, prepare the following tools: • Dedicated AC adapter “SAC-2” (Cleaning cannot be done when the camera is powered by the Lithium battery. Please use the AC adapter SAC-2 (sold separately) only as the power source when cleaning ). • Blower (Do not attach the brush, as it can scratch the image sensor surface.) 1 Connect the AC adapter to the camera and plug it into a wall socket. (P.23) 2 Turn the “D”–Dial to the remove the lens.
5 Turn the “D”-dial to the position and and button together. press the (The CL icon will be displayed on the top LCD panel, the shutter will open and you will be able to see the image sensor). 6 Carefully blow away any dust from the image sensor using the blower. Make sure that the tip of blower does not protrude inside the lens mount. If the power supply should suddenly shut off, the shutter curtain and mirror will close. These delicate parts could hit the blower and damage the camera.
EXPLANATION OF TERMS AE Auto Exposure; by using a built-in exposure meter, camera determines the correct exposure value, which is combinations of shutter speed and/or aperture value. AE Lock The camera will fix and memorize the exposure value with AE lock.
Color Temperature The numerical expression of the tone of the light, produced by a light source. The standard unit for color temperature is degrees Kelvin (K). The sunny daylight used as a standard near 5600 K. Low color temperature implies warmer more yellow/red light while high color temperature implies a colder more blue light. The typical color temperature of Tungsten light is 3200 K grade, a personal computer is 9300 K. Exposure. The amount of light reaching the image sensor’s surface.
Microdrive Developed by IBM, the Microdrives are extremely small-sized hard disks that can fit in a CompactCard memory slot. The Microdrive is built into a Type II CompactFlash form factor. 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.
AUTO POWER OFF In order to conserve battery power, the SD14 camera goes into a low-power mode if not used for a predetermined amount of time. The Auto Power Off timeout can be set using the Camera Set-up Menu to 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute, 5 minutes, or Off. The default setting is 30 seconds. TIP • • • The VIEW and MENU buttons will not be active when the camera is in low-power mode.
TO SET AUTO POWER OFF 1 Make sure the camera is turned on. 2 Press the button on the back of the camera to display the Camera Set-up Menu. (See P.104) 3 Use arrows on the 4-way controller to select “Auto Power Off”. 4 Press arrow or to open sub-menu. 5 Use arrows on the 4-way controller to select desired setting. 6 Press arrow or to apply the setting or arrow or to close sub-menu without making any changes.
WARNING DISPLAYS TOP LCD PANEL WARNING INDICATIONS Some part of battery icon is off Battery is low ►Have fresh battery ready. Battery icon blinks Battery is very low and just about exhausted. ►Replace battery with new one. (P.19~21) It is malfunctioning because of an unknown reason. ►Take battery out and reload again, then turn on the camera. (P.19~21) Exposure Blinks Exposure Control exceeds the operating range. ►Choose an exposure value until blinking disappears. (P.
COLOR LCD MONITOR MESSAGES No CF card in camera The camera can not detect a CF card. ►Please Insert the CF Card. (P.28) Incompatible file system. Format card. The CF card is corrupt or not formatted properly. ►Format CF card. If the error persists, replace with new card. (P.30) CF card is full! There is no more room on the CF card. ►Delete unwanted photos, choose a lower resolution setting, or use a different card. (P.
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. No indication on the top LCD panel Battery is exhausted. ►Replace the battery. (P.19–21) Battery is improperly installed. ►Insert the battery in the proper direction. (P.19–21) The shutter does not release Battery is exhausted. ►Replace the battery. (P.19–21) D-dial is set outside of the Drive Area.
Difficulty seeing the images on the color LCD monitor. Dust or dirt has adhered to the color LCD monitor. ►Clean the color LCD monitor with a blower or eyeglass cloth. (P.109) 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. ►Set the AF/M switch on the lens to AF. (P.
Camera Type Storage Media Image Sensor Size Lenses Used Picture Angle Lens Mount Imaging Element Type Color Photo Detectors Aspect Ratio Image Recording Format Resolution Interfaces White Balance Viewfinder Type Viewfinder Frame Coverage Viewfinder Magnification Eyepoint Diopter Adjustment Range Auto Focus Type AF Operating Range Focus Mode Metering Systems Metering Range Exposure Modes ISO Sensivity Exposure Compensation AE Lock Auto Bracketing Shutter Type Shutter Speeds 121 Interchangeable Lens SLR Typ
HI Mode : 3.0fps for 6 frames, MED Mode: 3.0fps for 12 frames, LOW Mode: 3.0fps for 24frames External Flash Synchronization Hot shoe (contact X, with dedicated flash linking contact) 2.5", low-temperature polysilicon TFT color LCD monitor, approx.
C23EN0732 E ENGLISH USER’S MANUAL This manual explains how to use SIGMA SD14 digital SLR camera. Please refer to the SIGMA Photo Pro User Guide, which is available in the PDF format of the supplied CD-ROM, to get information about installation of SIGMA Photo Pro software to your computer, connection between camera and computer and for detailed explanation of SIGMA Photo Pro software.
SD14 This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Tested To Comply With FCC Standards FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE SIGMA CORPORATION OF AMERICA 15 Fleetwood Court, Ronkonkoma, NY 11779, U.S.A. TEL: 631 585 1144 For customers in the U.S.A.
