Celebrating Sigma’s legacy and independence
In the midst of Apple’s high-profile iPhone event, Sigma marked its own significant milestone — its long journey of pioneering in photography. The company, true to its roots, celebrated with an inspiring letter and an eye-catching animated video featuring technicolor camera and lens components.
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What sets Sigma apart from giants like Canon, Nikon, and Sony is its unique independence. Unlike many Japanese photography companies, Sigma isn’t publicly traded. This allows it to answer to itself, its employees, and ultimately, you — the photographer. As CEO Kazuto Yamaki passionately explained, Sigma is a family business at heart. He inherited the helm from his father, Michihiro Yamaki, who founded the company in 1961.
A philosophy of happiness and community
Kazuto Yamaki shared a touching anecdote about his father: “My father was a really poor photographer, but he loved it. He told me to take over because photography is a business focused on happiness.” This philosophy has been central to Sigma’s mission, particularly in its local community in Aizu, Japan. Beyond its headquarters and manufacturing plant, Sigma runs a rice farm to support local employment and food supply.
Sigma’s enduring journey through changing times
The photography industry has evolved drastically since its founding. Yet, as Yamaki emphasized in his shared reflection, the importance of photography persists. It’s a medium that captures and celebrates happiness and human connection as part of their long history.
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September 9, 2023, marks Sigma’s 65th anniversary. Despite intense competition and market changes that forced many companies to close, Sigma thrived, thanks to support from customers, partners, and local communities. This unwavering dedication allowed Sigma to uphold Michihiro Yamaki’s belief in creating high-quality, beautiful products for “Happy Moments.” Their journey is truly a testament to resilience and passion.
Innovative vision for the future
Sigma’s letter is a testament to its sustained integrity and innovation. The company continues producing renowned lenses that are both fun and accessible. Complementing this milestone, Sigma released a visually stunning video directed by Daihei Shibata, with music by Cornelius. It features surreal, X-ray-like imagery of cameras and lenses set to mesmerizing music.
Note: The video includes flashing lights and patterns that might affect those with photosensitive conditions.
As we celebrate 65 impactful years, Sigma reminds us of the profound connection between photography and happiness. Here’s to many more years of cultivating creativity and community as part of their enduring journey.
Source: petapixel.com
Frequently asked questions
What makes Sigma different from other photography companies?
Sigma is unique because it is not publicly traded, allowing it to maintain independence and answer only to itself, its employees, and photographers. It operates as a family business, with leadership passed down from founder Michihiro Yamaki to his son Kazuto Yamaki.
How did Sigma celebrate its 65th anniversary?
Sigma marked its 65th anniversary with an inspiring letter and a visually captivating animated video. The video, directed by Daihei Shibata and featuring music by Cornelius, showcased surreal, X-ray-like imagery of cameras and lenses.
What business philosophy did Sigma’s founder hold?
Sigma’s founder Michihiro Yamaki believed in creating high-quality, beautiful products for “Happy Moments.” His philosophy emphasized photography as a business focused on happiness, which continues to guide the company’s mission.