The 30th Edition of the TIPA World Awards Announces Sigma as a Winner in Four Categories

The Technical Image Press Association (TIPA) concluded its 30th edition on 20 May in Madrid, Spain. Sigma has been announced as one of the winners in multiple categories. Each year, the award is presented to the best imaging products unveiled in the previous year.

Founded in 1991, TIPA is composed of numerous member publications in the imaging field, both print and online. The editors create a global panel of experts with a reputation for an honest and trustworthy appraisal of the products. Each member publication is engaged in the selection and final vote in the TIPA World Awards process.

Every year, TIPA members come together with the TIPA Board at the General Assembly to choose the winners through a voting process. However, on account of COVID-19 and travel restrictions, the board decided to set up an online voting procedure for members from around the world on 30 April 2021. The associations selected the best 40 products from numerous nominees. The panel of 26 jurors from Asia, Australia, Europe and North and South America, along with a delegate from the Camera Journal Press Club. Better Photography, the only Indian member of TIPA, was represented by Shridhar Kunte, Deputy Editor—Technical.

“We believe that now more than ever our support of the industry and the people who work so hard, be it in production, distribution, or marketing, deserve our thanks and appreciation for their efforts to continue to develop new and exciting products that both expand imaging creativity and potential and point the way to new technologies in the future,” said Thomas Gerwers, Chairman of TIPA.

Here is a look at the categories: 

1. Best Photo/Video Camera Advanced: Sigma fp L

Like a versatile team player that can play any position on the field, the compact SIGMA fp L can handle just about any imaging task required. This digital mirrorless camera incorporates a full frame 61MP sensor that can deliver 12- or 14-bit RAW (DNG) files and JPEGs in a wide range of aspect ratios. It also offers a host of UHD 4K video formats, all with Linear PCM audio, for up to two hours of continuous shooting time. Its cinema capabilities include the support of three RAW file formats output to external screen recorders over HDMI and gimbal controlling. The SIGMA fp L also serves as an excellent webcam option. When connected to a PC via a USB Type-C cable, the can output audio and video. It can also charge simultaneously, enabling users to stream videos for as long as they desire.

2. Best Ultra-Telephoto Zoom Lens: Sigma 100–400mm F5-6.3 DG DN OS | Contemporary

A long-range zoom lens creates a whole new way of looking at the world, and for many, profoundly changes the way they see and record nature, wildlife and even photojournalistic assignments. Lightweight (1135g for L-Mount), specially sealed, and compact for its range (197.2mm for L-Mount), this newly crafted lens takes full advantage of Sigma’s know-how in telephoto optics applied to mirrorless camera technology (Sony E-mount and L-Mount). The 9-bladed diaphragm enhances bokeh, and is especially exciting at longer focal length settings. The stepping motor in the lens is optimised for both phase detection and contrast AF, so eye-tracking technology is improved. Its four steps optical stabilisation system expands shooting opportunities in challenging lighting conditions.

3. Best Portait Lens: Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN | Art

Aimed at professional and enthusiast portrait and fine art photographers, the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN | Art has features that read like a portrait lens wish list. The first, of course, is the potential for bokeh and other benefits of an enhanced optical background effect for both portrait and nature subjects. The company has paid special attention to achieve optimum results at any aperture, especially when it’s wide open. The lens incorporates an impressive assemblage of high refractive index glass, five Special Low Dispersion (SLD) elements and an aspherical lens, resulting in the absence of colour bleeding and bothersome backlight effects, centre-to-edge sharpness, and a unique presence throughout. It has a dust- and splash-proof structure, along with a water- and oil-repellent coating. Numerous lens controls and functions make it an apt choice for both photography and videography.

4. Best Macro Lens: Sigma 105mm f/2.8 DG DN MACRO | Art

A macro adds a special touch to any photographer’s kit bag, especially one that can perform extra duty as a classic portrait focal length lens. The Sigma 105mm f/2.8 DG DN MACRO | Art lens checks all the boxes when it comes to a close-up photographer’s wish list. It has a maximum aperture of f/2.8, a minimum focusing distance of 29.5cm, a maximum magnification ratio of 1:1, and a rounded 9-bladed diaphragm, all of which add to the versatile handling of any subject, especially the potential for exciting bokeh effects. Since a good deal of macro work takes place outdoors, a water and oil repellent coating protect the lens against inclement weather. Numerous controls such as an aperture ring lock switch, AFL button, and an aperture ring click switch for video shooting silence add to the creative and practical benefits the lens affords.

To know more about the products, visit www.sigmaindia.in/.