Sigma Marks 65th Anniversary with CEO Letter and Animated Video
On September 9, 2026, Sigma marked its 65th anniversary with a heartfelt letter from CEO Kazuto Yamaki and a vibrant animated video showcasing colorful camera and lens components. Founded as Sigma Research Institute Co., Ltd. by Michihiro Yamaki on September 9, 1961, Sigma stands apart from other Japanese photography giants like Canon, Nikon, Fujifilm, Sony, and Panasonic by remaining privately owned. This independence allows the company to focus on its employees and customers. Kazuto Yamaki, who succeeded his father, emphasized gratitude towards customers, dealers, partners, suppliers, and local communities in his message, reiterating the founder's motto, "For Happy Moments." The anniversary video was produced by WOW inc., with direction by Daihei Shibata and music by Cornelius. Sigma's Aizu General Factory, established in 1973 in Bandai Town, Fukushima Prefecture, underscores the company's commitment to its local community.
Key facts
- Sigma celebrated its 65th anniversary on September 9, 2026.
- Sigma was founded on September 9, 1961, as Sigma Research Institute Co., Ltd. by Michihiro Yamaki.
- CEO Kazuto Yamaki took over from his father and runs Sigma as a family business.
- Sigma is not publicly traded, unlike Canon, Nikon, Fujifilm, Sony, and Panasonic.
- The anniversary letter emphasized gratitude to customers, dealers, partners, suppliers, and local communities.
- Sigma operates a rice farm in Aizu, Japan, to support local employment and food supply.
- The anniversary video was directed by Daihei Shibata, with music by Cornelius, creative direction by Ichiro Iwasaki, and production by WOW inc.
- Sigma's Aizu General Factory was established in 1973 in Bandai Town, Fukushima Prefecture.
Entities
Artists
- Kazuto Yamaki
- Michihiro Yamaki
- Daihei Shibata
- Cornelius
- Ichiro Iwasaki
Institutions
- Sigma
- Sigma Research Institute Co., Ltd.
- Canon
- Nikon
- Fujifilm
- Sony
- Panasonic
- DPReview
- PetaPixel
- WOW inc.
- SIGMA America
Locations
- Aizu
- Japan
- Bandai Town
- Fukushima Prefecture