This interview is very insightful with Sigma CEO Kazuto Yamaki. I didn’t know Sigma is a privately held company. He also talks about Sony E Mount. Unfortunately no clear plan was laid out but I guess they don’t like talking about future plans. I sure would like to get my 18-35 and 50mm ART lenses remounted for Sony E-Mount so I can ditch the Metabones adapter and gaining auto focus with the a7s II and other Sony Alpha cameras would be great!
Q. 2 weeks before you came here, I gathered some questions and advices that people on the Taiwan internet want to ask you. Here’s what they need:
- Develop ART lens for Sony FE mount.
- ART 24-70mm f/2.8
- ART 85mm
- ART 135mm
- Foveon Mirrorless – Develop Mirrorless camera with Foveon X3 Sensor
- Develop more lens for M4/3 system
A. 135mm. Except 135mm is relatively unique, others are mostly the same to the wish list of other country.
Q. A month ago I have made a comparison between Canon, Nikon and Sony’s high resolution camera. And Sony have a outstanding performance in most aspect. What do you think about the rise of Sony?
A. Sony has a sensor technology. To us, it is very clear that Sony will be the major player in the photo industry. Because they have sensor technology. In order to differentiate the products. the sensor and lens are the most important. Other things can be shared by other companies. I think in the photo industry who has a good technology of making good sensor and lens could survive. That is why we acquired the Foveon company and try to retain the technology to us.
Q. I think Sony are much daring to try something new, but Canon and Nikon are relatively conservative.
A. I ‘m not very familiar with these company. But my guess is that Canon and Nikon have many customers, including professional photographers. Those professionals live on photography, and they really need a reliable, stable equipment. Canon and Nikon couldn’t ignore them to jump into new technology. So I think the two company have a big responsibility for these people on their shoulders. Especially those photographers who shoot Olympic Games, they cannot miss a single frame. And the journalist in the war zone, the equipment they use must be very reliable.
Q. So basically your target is on Canon and Nikon photographers, but will it be possible Sigma turns into Sony?
A. Everything is possible. I don’t want to comment about other company, all people work very hard for the future. So everything is possible.
Q. There’s a rumour that Canon wants to acquire you, is that true?
A. I cannot comment on rumour. Especially such kind business related rumour. We’re private company so its okay, but they’re listed company. So I don’t want to comment which may influence their stock price.
The whole interview can be found HERE on Mobile 1. I highly recommend reading the entire interview. It’s also in a video but not as complete.
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