Behind the Scenes on a Fashion Shoot with the Sigma BF

Photographer Jillian Lenser with models and crew, capturing BTS on a fashion shoot (crew credits at end of article)

The Sigma BF camera has become my unexpected companion on set. When I normally juggle multiple cameras for different casual use cases, this chic aluminum unibody camera now efficiently handles all of my behind-the-scenes needs.

The Sigma BF is not just easy to use, it’s visually striking, perfect for use in a studio or on set.

At its core is a 24.6 megapixel full-frame sensor delivering files crisp enough to blend seamlessly with my main camera’s output when needed. Its video capabilities are surprisingly high-quality for such a compact body: 6K at 30fps for primary footage and 120fps in Full HD when you need that slow-motion moment. It won’t replace dedicated cinema gear, but it exceeds expectations for quick clips and social content.

The 230GB internal storage might be my favorite practical feature. Say goodbye to that sinking feeling when you realize you’ve left your cards at home. When the day wraps, one USB-C cable handles both file transfers and recharging — a small but meaningful workflow improvement. No more juggling multiple memory cards and card readers.

Simple and intuitive, with a fast workflow (and no accessories and attachments to lose).

Sigma embraces minimalism with the streamlined menu, shutter button, a single dial, and just a handful of essential buttons. The uncluttered screen allows for thoughtful and accurate composition. For lower lift shoots, I typically offer a second camera to an assistant to snap some BTS. The simple interface of the BF means they catch on fast, letting me focus on the main project.

With no viewfinder or tilt/swivel screen, the fixed LCD screen initially threw me off. But what seemed like a limitation actually became liberating as it forced me to break my usual patterns and discover new perspectives. This disruption to my workflow pushed me to engage with subjects more intentionally, something that’s easy to lose when you’re operating on photographer autopilot. It’s definitely not for everyone, but this constraint ultimately refreshed my own creative approach.

The Sigma BF — beautiful from all angles and easy for anyone to pick up and use.

As an L-Mount camera, the BF plays nicely with lenses from Sigma, Leica, and Panasonic. I’ve been pairing it with a classic 50mm prime for straightforward BTS work, but Sigma’s variety of zoom lenses provide versatility when capturing wider sets or working in a smaller studio.

Battery life typically handles a full day of stills, though heavy video recording will drain it faster. The ability to charge via fast USB-C keeps things moving when I’m recording extensively.

A few standouts from the 13 color modes available are Standard, Rich, Teal & Orange, and Monochrome. The color modes offer creative options you can quickly cycle through to customize each photo without post-processing. I generally stick with the Rich color mode which warms up the image without drastically distorting colors, but having all of the alternatives helps match any specific mood or lighting situation.

Sigma BF + 50mm F2 DG | Contemporary
F2, 1/200s, ISO 400

The simplicity and design are the obvious standouts of the BF, but arguably more importantly is how this camera facilitates human connection. Its distinctive design sparks conversations, and its approachable interface encourages others on set to pick it up and capture moments themselves. This collaborative aspect creates more authentic behind-the-scenes content than I could manage alone.

In an industry where content deliverables now often include BTS video or social-friendly extras, having a camera like the BF feels less like a luxury and more like a smart adaptation. It seamlessly transitioned from being just a tool on set to becoming the camera I reach for in my personal life too. It’s so effortless to use that I find myself grabbing it for weekend walks, dinners with friends, or travel moments I used to leave undocumented.

Sigma BF + 50mm F2 DG | Contemporary
F2, 1/200s, ISO 1250

It’s rare for a camera to feel equally at home in both work and life, but the Sigma BF has genuinely brought back the simple joy of photography for me. No overthinking settings, no menu diving… just seeing, composing, and shooting. It reminded me why I fell in love with photography in the first place.

Sigma BF + 50mm F2 DG | Contemporary
F16, 1/125s, ISO 5000

Sigma BF + 50mm F2 DG | Contemporary
F2, 1/200s, ISO 800

This camera won’t replace your professional level gear, or those needing dual card slots or built-in viewfinders, because it’s not supposed to.

What it offers instead is something increasingly rare: photography stripped back to its essence of seeing and capturing, consistently delivering beautiful results.