Sigma BF Review: A Minimalist Camera with Bold Design

- Minimalist design with a single block of aluminum body
- Clever controls with a single dial on the back
- Stunning photo quality with sharp, lively, and detailed images
- 13 film simulations to choose from
- Impressive auto-focus system with snappy performance and good face and animal detection
- Video capabilities are limited, with no tilt screen and weak battery life
Introduction to the Sigma BF
The Sigma BF is a unique camera that has garnered attention for its minimalist design and lack of features. Despite its limitations, the camera has won over many with its bold design, clever controls, and ability to take stunning photos.
The camera's body is made from a single block of aluminum, and its controls have been pared down to just a few buttons. The result is a surprisingly easy-to-operate camera that can be taken almost anywhere.
Design and Controls
The Sigma BF's design is both bold and minimalist. The body is made from a single block of aluminum, giving it a premium feel. The controls have been simplified, with only a few buttons and a single dial on the back. This dial is instrumental in using the camera, allowing for easy cycling through settings and changing them on the fly.
The camera also features a small pill-shaped display above the dial, which provides important information at a glance. The dial can also be used as an exposure compensation control when the shutter button is half-pressed, making it easy to make quick adjustments.
Photo Quality and Performance
The Sigma BF takes great photos, with sharp, lively, and detailed images. The camera pairs well with Sigma's updated 50mm F/2 lens, which is a perfect match for this camera. Even in low light, the camera performs well, with well-maintained noise and a soothing, film-like grain.
The camera also features 13 film simulations, which should be enough for most people to find a look they like. The auto-focus system is also impressive, with snappy performance, decent focus tracking, and good face and animal detection.
Video Capabilities
While the Sigma BF can take great video, it is not its strong suit. The camera supports 6K up to 30FPS, but changing settings on the fly can be cumbersome, and the lack of a tilt screen makes it more difficult to use. The weak battery life and lack of optical stabilization also make it less ideal for video.