Sigma Releases 2025’s Most Interesting Camera That’s Like Nothing You’ve Seen Before

Sigma has announced the upcoming release of the Sigma BF, a 24-megapixel full-frame mirrorless camera “designed to prioritize simplicity and intuitive use.” It also has no memory card slot, hot shoe, or viewfinder and is milled from a single block of aluminium. PetaPixel is not wrong to describe the camera as “downright weird.” It’s almost as if Marie Kondo herself designed it, casting aside any buttons and clutter that didn’t release joy!

It’s certainly a bold move for Sigma, which says it aims to “redefine the photography experience by stripping away unnecessary complexities and focusing on the essentials of capturing images.” The design will certainly appeal to minimalists and lovers of simplicity, but is it really that weird?

The BF camera release corresponds to Sigma’s new overhauled branding and a release of several new formidable lenses. Could it be that Sigma is finally trying to match the bigger camera brands at last? Sigma is a reliable brand that most of us have in our camera bags and it deserves more recognition for its quality yet still somewhat affordable optics.

Key Features and Design

The Sigma BF is built around a 24-megapixel full-frame back-illuminated CMOS sensor, offering high-definition image quality. It features an L-Mount, making it compatible with a wide range of interchangeable lenses from Sigma and other L-Mount Alliance partners.

Buttons with Haptic Feedback

The camera’s design is minimalist, with controls integrated into just three buttons, one dial, a shutter release, and a power button. Notably, the BF is the first mirrorless camera to incorporate haptic feedback into its dial and buttons, ensuring precise and comfortable operation while minimizing physical wear. Who doesn’t love a bit of buzziness under your fingers when taking photos?

All Aluminium Construction

One of the more interesting design elements is the unibody construction. Each camera body is carved from a single block of aluminium which apparently takes over seven hours (you try carving aluminium, it’s not easy!), resulting in a seamless, rigid structure that enhances durability and provides a comfortable weight balance when paired with lenses. I’m wondering if this makes the camera indestructible, if anyone wants to try dropping it?

User Interface and Functionality

The Sigma BF introduces a new user interface that simplifies the shooting process. The live view screen displays only essential information, allowing photographers to focus on composition and subject matter. Additional settings are organized into optional and system menus, reducing clutter and making the camera more accessible to users of all skill levels.

Internal Storage

The camera also includes 230 GB of internal storage, capable of holding over 14,000 JPEG files, 4,300 uncompressed RAW images, or 2.5 hours of high-quality video. A USB-C port facilitates fast charging and data transfer. 230GB may seem like a lot, however, will it be enough? 250GB on my iPhone 16 doesn’t seem like all that much in the end, and I wonder if this could be a huge limitation of the camera, particularly when shooting 6K video.

Autofocus and Video Capabilities

The BF employs a hybrid autofocus system that combines phase detection and contrast detection, utilizing advanced algorithms to ensure accurate and reliable subject tracking. In addition to human subjects, the camera can detect dogs and cats, making it a versatile tool for pet photography.

For videographers, the BF supports 6K video recording and L-Log format, taking full advantage of the dynamic range offered by its full-frame sensor. This makes it a viable option for both still photographers and video creators.

Creative Options

The camera offers 13 colour modes, ranging from creative options like Teal and Orange, Powder Blue, and Warm Gold to more traditional settings such as Standard, Rich, and Monochrome. These modes provide photographers with additional creative flexibility when capturing images.

Final Thoughts

Sigma definitely deserves some kudos for coming up with a truly different camera here. I’m sure there will be some very happy early adopters, and it could make other camera brands rethink the mirrorless designs. To me, this almost feels like a hybrid between a smartphone’s camera and a more traditional mirrorless body. It also seems to be taking a cue from Leica, making the actual aesthetics as important as the usability.

Price and Availability

The Sigma BF will be available in April 2025 in two body colours: silver and black. It will retail for $1,999 and includes a Li-ion Battery Pack BP-81 and a metal body cap.