This was a really fun game!
I consistently preferred the second image, even in the first set where opinions differed. And also in the set where the color correction was taken the other way. I also found that even going back with the specific request to consider only color.
Before considering “just the color” and even after, it seemed to me that the gradation (transition) of color implied that the second images came from a camera with a larger sensor. Obviously I got this backwards.
I was pretty surprised to find out the cameras in use. Somehow the DP was not in my mental space of possible cameras.
So it is interesting that the smaller foveon sensor delivers the color transition experience I expect from a larger sensor when viewing tiny images on a phone.
This makes me wonder if Sigma will finally deliver a full frame foveon sensor camera in the new L line with Panasonic and Leica. It would have the natural advantage of being one option among a number of solid traditional choices, which would probably give it much better odds of market acceptance.
The offerings so far have had all the disadvantages which plague them (little ISO flexibility, being locked into the obscure Sigma lens mount or being forced to buy fixed-lens cameras, limited sensor size).
The other problem Sigma still needs to solve is post processing RAW files. Writing a check to Capture One for support seems the obvious solution to me.
None of these things (nor anything surrounding foveon) have been easy. But I still hold out hope that it could work.
A solid Foveon solution with a full frame sensor in a viable camera system (with all that that implies about a robust set of solutions in lenses, strobe systems, cameras which can support traditional needs such as video, high ISO, a viable used market, etc) means many more would be willing to take a chance.
Someone who has bought into the L system could, just for the price of a body, gain access to all the extra possibilities a full frame foveon sensor would make possible.
Buying into an obscure system to use a fringe, poorly supported product is only going to appeal to a small minority. But taking a chance when you are already invested in the system...not so hard.
Foveon is also almost as good as a pure monochrome camera, with the added benefit of being able to “mix” the color response without having to suffer the demosaicing “corruption” Bayer and Xtrans suffers going to monochrome.
And they tend to make the UV/IR filter removable, so you also get full spectrum with no conversion cost.
A pretty nice option, if they make it...
Derick Miller
