The Sigma BF: A Camera That Truly Feels Different

Q: What is the Sigma BF?

First things first — what is this thing?

Known for their high-quality budget lenses, this camera is the first of its kind from the brand. The Sigma BF is a brand-new, mirrorless full-frame, 24MP interchangeable lens camera with an L-mount. It shoots 8 FPS RAW (electronic shutter only) and can even record 6K video at 30 FPS, though Sigma clearly designed this as a photography-first camera. The video specs are just a bonus.

But specs alone don’t tell the full story. What makes this camera special is how it feels to shoot with it.

Q: Is this the camera Apple would make?

One of the first questions I got was: "Does this feel like a camera Apple would design?"

At first glance, the aluminium unibody does give off Apple vibes — clean lines, minimalist design, and a premium feel. But the biggest difference is that it isn’t a closed ecosystem.

The Sigma BF has an interchangeable L-mount, meaning you can use lenses from Leica, Panasonic, and other Sigma glass. That’s something Apple would never do. This level of versatility is what makes the camera such a great investment, especially if you're a creator who owns multiple brands or dabbles in various setups.

Speaking of lenses, the way this camera's silver and black versions pair with Sigma’s DG Contemporary lenses is chef’s kiss perfection.

Q: How does it feel in the hand?

The BF feels a little different than what you might be used to.

If you’re pretty keen on chunky DSLRs or mirrorless cameras with deep rubber grips, the Sigma BF will feel a bit slim or cold. But surprisingly, it’s more comfortable than it looks.

I even found myself one-handing it while holding an iced latte, something I’d never do with my usual setup. Changing settings one-handed isn’t easy, but those quick point-and-shoot moments are no problem.

Q: What about strap options?

The Peak Design Wrist Strap is great if you’re out specifically to shoot street scenes or lifestyles, whereas the Peak Design Shoulder Strap actually attaches to an anchor at the bottom (not Sigma’s intended design), so you can convert it into a casual carry camera.

Q: Does it stand out on the street?

This was a pretty popular question.

It’s less obvious than a pro DSLR but more noticeable than a compact (like a Ricoh GR or Sony RX100). The lens you attach also plays a role; a bigger lens will draw more attention.

If you're around seasoned photographers with the camera, who knows, maybe you might get stopped. Sigms is new to the camera body game, so it's a great conversation starter for those who have no idea of the latest BF.

Q: Does it make you want to pick it up and shoot?

For me... it absolutely does.

One of the first things you’ll notice about the Sigma BF is that big, beautiful LCD screen. It’s 3.2", super sharp at 2.1 million dots, and bright enough to use in the middle of the day. You can turn off all the extra info — like gridlines, levels, all that — and it just feels really immersive, like you’re seeing the scene exactly how you want. Paired with the 13 built-in color modes (think film simulations from Fujifilm, but with way more control), you can customize everything from highlights and shadows to fade and vignette. It’s a color playground for people who love to tinker with their look right from the camera without having to worry about too much post-production.

The whole interface feels refreshingly different: tactile, clean, and just fun to use. It’s the kind of camera that makes you want to go out and shoot again.

That said, it’s not perfect. There’s no viewfinder, which might be a letdown if you’re used to one or rely on one for your work.

Also, the battery life is pretty meh. Definitely bring a couple of extras with you.

Peak Design

Cuff Camera Wrist Strap - Black

$34.95

Peak Design says the Cuff Strap is engineered to hold 200 pounds along with the brand’s latest V4 Anchor system. None of our wrists are that strong and none of our cameras weigh that much, so we’re taking their word for it. Easily switch between the Cuff Strap and other Peak Design V4 Anchor-equipped camera straps for the ultimate in camera carry versatility. And it’s not just for cameras, you can connect the Cuff to binoculars, GoPros, rangefinders, tools, and more.

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Q: How does it handle low light without IBIS?

I tested slow shutter speeds (1/25s–1/30s), and the results were mixed:

1. Stationary subjects were sharp if I was steady.
2. Moving subjects were like motion-blur city.

If you rely on IBIS for low-light work, this isn’t your camera. But if you’re shooting in decent light or embracing motion blur creatively, it’s fine.

Q: Who Is This Camera For?

Finally, the big question: who is the Sigma BF really for?

If you’re someone who loves:

• Fujifilm X100 series
• Leica Q or M cameras
• Ricoh GR or Sony RX compacts

…then the Sigma BF might be your next favorite camera. It's a compact, travel-friendly option for creators needing something simple for everyday documentation outside of professional work, and a great first camera option for those wanting to look to upgrading from their smartphone. This out-of-the-box versatility makes it nearly perfect for a wide range of shooters who already own a variety of lens interfaces, as well. You don't get that anywhere else.

It’s not a do-it-all hybrid. It’s a photographer’s camera — one that makes shooting fun again. If you want a fresh experience, this is it.