L-Mount camera of the year 2025

[cascadian]

I read a few notes here and what I read decided for me. The s1.ii is a big deal, but had it come out alone it would have less effect on L in general. The s1r.ii is a strong statement that brought attention, even if the attention does not always lead to r.ii sales. Attention has value.

It feels like the 100-500mm is doing the same for L lenses.

 

[pdk42]

Do not start with Foveon. That is an open wound....

I loved the Foveon sensor until the DP Merrill compact cameras. Every model after these were not as good anymore.

I hope we will see in the future a "true" Foveon sensor again. That 3D feeling was impressive.

I’d buy a Fovean-equipped L Mount camera in a heartbeat, even if it was only APSC. I might even forgive the lack of an EVF (maybe).

 

[Miki]

I still have my Lumix LX5 which has a CCD sensor. It's in working order although I don't use it any more. Anyway, the jpeg photos it produces have a warmth and colour rendition that reminds me of Kodachrome, only better. Quite unlike modern CMOS sensors.

I bought a 5MP Leica Digilux. In the right light, and camera setting, it renders a color, and tonality, that even my modern Fuji X-trans can't much it.
And, the last Summer, I preferred to shoot with Digi 2, instead.
Of course, I'm working within camera limitations, learning the camera, and use it to my advantage.
I decided to save Digi 2 for artistic work, only.
There is that feel element in images, that Fuji-X lacks. And, I prefer images from Fuji X as opposed to those from CaNikonSon.

 

[GeorgeHudetz]

So, part of me wants to change my vote to the BF. It’s so unique that I could indeed see it bringing quite a few people to L-mount, but probably not as much as the S1II bodies.

However, if I were to expand the rules a bit, I might argue it’s the most important new body, because it’s the first time that somebody other than super-expensive LEICA is building an interchangeable mirrorless camera with a highly innovative and (hopefully) more enjoyable shooting experience. Of course, it’s much different than a Leica, but if Sigma were to follow up the BF with a BFV (big-foolish-view) which has a viewfinder, they could find themselves in the enviable position of offering a camera with an innovative, unique and exciting UI that is reasonably priced. Perhaps uncorking some pent-up demand? I know they would have my attention. It really could set the market on it's ear. And it would be on L-mount.

 

[pdk42]

So, part of me wants to change my vote to the BF. It’s so unique that I could indeed see it bringing quite a few people to L-mount, but probably not as much as the S1II bodies.

However, if I were to expand the rules a bit, I might argue it’s the most important new body, because it’s the first time that somebody other than super-expensive LEICA is building an interchangeable mirrorless camera with a highly innovative and (hopefully) more enjoyable shooting experience. Of course, it’s much different than a Leica, but if Sigma were to follow up the BF with a BFV (big-foolish-view) which has a viewfinder, they could find themselves in the enviable position of offering a camera with an innovative, unique and exciting UI that is reasonably priced. Perhaps uncorking some pent-up demand? I know they would have my attention. It really could set the market on it's ear. And it would be on L-mount.

How is the BF's UI innovative? Why is it more enjoyable?, and to what other camera are you comparing it? I'm sure the BF has some nice haptics and its metal build I'm sure gives it an upmarket feel, but better UI? I see very little wrong with the Panasonic UI.

 

[GeorgeHudetz]

How is the BF's UI innovative? Why is it more enjoyable?, and to what other camera are you comparing it? I'm sure the BF has some nice haptics and its metal build I'm sure gives it an upmarket feel, but better UI?

Have you watched any videos that cover the BF interactions? It’s clear they innovated in several areas of the UI - I don’t need to explain how. As to whether or not it’s more enjoyable to use than a typical mirrorless body, that’s clearly a personal decision.

I see very little wrong with the Panasonic UI.

Then you are set!

 

[xaviergut]

Well, 69,7% for the Lumix S1Rii...

It is so good that even Leica is preparing their own version of the camera :

New Leica SL camera model based on the Panasonic S1RII rumored to be announced next year - Leica Rumors

Leica is rumored to announce a new SL camera based on the Panasonic S1RII (44.3MP). The new SL model will be positioned between the current Leica SL3 (60MP) and the Leica SL2-S (24MP). Here is what we know so far: 44.3MP sensor (based on the Panasinic S1RII) Improved AF (better than the SL3-S)...

leicarumors.com

 

[Jayneboo]

So, part of me wants to change my vote to the BF. It’s so unique that I could indeed see it bringing quite a few people to L-mount, but probably not as much as the S1II bodies.

However, if I were to expand the rules a bit, I might argue it’s the most important new body, because it’s the first time that somebody other than super-expensive LEICA is building an interchangeable mirrorless camera with a highly innovative and (hopefully) more enjoyable shooting experience. Of course, it’s much different than a Leica, but if Sigma were to follow up the BF with a BFV (big-foolish-view) which has a viewfinder, they could find themselves in the enviable position of offering a camera with an innovative, unique and exciting UI that is reasonably priced. Perhaps uncorking some pent-up demand? I know they would have my attention. It really could set the market on it's ear. And it would be on L-mount.

It would have to be the BF for me too George, but then having spent my money on the BF, why would I vote for any other, it's the only L mount camera I have wanted to use in 2025.
I am a Leica user, which is probably why the UI is almost perfect for me, I positively dislike the look and ugliness of most of today's camera's, and as much as it's not about the look, it makes a huge difference in the enjoyment of the act if you are holding something you like.

It is a camera that has really surprised me, when I bought it it was a silly impulse thing, I just wanted to try it and I had every intention of returning it, a camera without an EVF was something I was completely dead to, here I am 4-5 months later and it's the only camera I pick up, other than for weekly sports events when I have to use the Sony. I can see why the S1RII is the popular choice, it seems the most capable body in L mount right now, but I know it couldn't replace my Sony for what I do (more especially L mount does not have an equivalent to the 300GM lens), so I have no interest in it.

Made me smile to see Richard Butler kind of agreeing.

https://www.dpreview.com/articles/0279539979/gear-of-the-year-richard-butler-sigma-bf

 

[xaviergut]

The Sigma BF is so special, different, modern, and beautiful that it's perfect as an everyday carry and lifestyle camera, and I can imagine that professionals who use Sony, Canon, or Nikon are considering this camera as an alternative to the Leica M cameras... for an everyday use.

 

[GeorgeHudetz]

Well, 69,7% for the Lumix S1Rii...

It is so good that even Leica is preparing their own version of the camera :

New Leica SL camera model based on the Panasonic S1RII rumored to be announced next year - Leica Rumors

Leica is rumored to announce a new SL camera based on the Panasonic S1RII (44.3MP). The new SL model will be positioned between the current Leica SL3 (60MP) and the Leica SL2-S (24MP). Here is what we know so far: 44.3MP sensor (based on the Panasinic S1RII) Improved AF (better than the SL3-S)...

leicarumors.com

It will be interesting to see what the new body is like. As per my recent posts, I’ve been flirting with the idea of an SL body. You can get “excellent” condition SL2 bodies right now for $2500. So an S1R (more-or-less) with Leica build and UX. And microlenses that work well with rangefinder glass. For $2500. Damn. But Leica chooses to omit certain things from that body, like focus stacking and an articulating screen, that make me hesitate. And the SL3 - which does have an articulating screen - still doesn’t have focus stacking and additionally doesn’t have hi-res mode. So it’s weird. And the $240 batteries don’t help...

So now I am coveting a used 90-280. I seem to have the micro contrast mind-virus, LOL.

 

[GeorgeHudetz]

It would have to be the BF for me too George, but then having spent my money on the BF, why would I vote for any other, it's the only L mount camera I have wanted to use in 2025.
I am a Leica user, which is probably why the UI is almost perfect for me, I positively dislike the look and ugliness of most of today's camera's, and as much as it's not about the look, it makes a huge difference in the enjoyment of the act if you are holding something you like.

It is a camera that has really surprised me, when I bought it it was a silly impulse thing, I just wanted to try it and I had every intention of returning it, a camera without an EVF was something I was completely dead to, here I am 4-5 months later and it's the only camera I pick up, other than for weekly sports events when I have to use the Sony. I can see why the S1RII is the popular choice, it seems the most capable body in L mount right now, but I know it couldn't replace my Sony for what I do (more especially L mount does not have an equivalent to the 300GM lens), so I have no interest in it.

Made me smile to see Richard Butler kind of agreeing.

https://www.dpreview.com/articles/0279539979/gear-of-the-year-richard-butler-sigma-bf

That’s good to hear. I suspect I’d like the BF as well, but I’d need to go back to prescription glasses if I were to do that, which is probably a good thing. And I’d probably get Hugh’s grip for it.

Ah, you have the 300 GM. Wow. What a lens. I suspect Sigma will plug that hole in their telephoto prime lineup soon, but it probably won’t be as light as the GM. But then it should be cheaper.

 

[Jayneboo]

That’s good to hear. I suspect I’d like the BF as well, but I’d need to go back to prescription glasses if I were to do that, which is probably a good thing. And I’d probably get Hugh’s grip for it.

Ah, you have the 300 GM. Wow. What a lens. I suspect Sigma will plug that hole in their telephoto prime lineup soon, but it probably won’t be as light as the GM. But then it should be cheaper.

Just a heads up George, there are now alternatives to that hefty Leica priced battery (BP-SCL6) that work just as well and seem not to cause any issues with SL3/Q3 etc, think they can be found UK price under £50, I know several folks that use them.

As far as the 300GM is concerned, it is the lens that keeps me with Sony, for my purposes it's about perfect at a weight I can easily manage, I would be surprised (and delighted) if Sigma came out with an alternative. The 300 was my Christmas present to myself last year having spotted a deal on a new one that I couldn't resist. Best lens purchase ever, no regrets, if I check my image count, by far my most used lens too.

 

[CharlesH]

Charles, we are all counting on you to answer these questions.

I've been looking at the S1M2 from the video side, at Dynamic Range Boost, and it really looks good. I had not considered the photography aspects of this, but I do expect to take a look. Related, I just got the 100-500mm and did some shots with the S1RM2 where I had to pull some shadows way up and got to a pretty high noise level. I suspect the S1M2 with DR Boost would have done better, and if I get a chance I'll try that same shot with it. The DR Boost implementation with the S1M2 is much like the dual gain of the GH7 and G9II where it works so well. Could the S1M2 be the ultimate landscape camera?

 

[GeorgeHudetz]

I've been looking at the S1M2 from the video side, at Dynamic Range Boost, and it really looks good. I had not considered the photography aspects of this, but I do expect to take a look. Related, I just got the 100-500mm and did some shots with the S1RM2 where I had to pull some shadows way up and got to a pretty high noise level. I suspect the S1M2 with DR Boost would have done better, and if I get a chance I'll try that same shot with it. The DR Boost implementation with the S1M2 is much like the dual gain of the GH7 and G9II where it works so well. Could the S1M2 be the ultimate landscape camera?

That’s good to hear, thanks for the update Charles. FWIW, I think the DR boost in the S1II for stills only works at base ISO, or at least tapers down as you increase the ISO. But I could be wrong. Also, based on what I’ve seen on photonstophotos, the S1II is a true “ISOLESS” sensor where it doesn’t really matter what ISO you shoot at, while the S1RII is not - it really needs to be shot at whatever ISO just grazes with blowing the highlights (ETTR) if you want to minimize noise in the (raised) shadows. Or, at the very least, at the second native ISO.

 

[GeorgeHudetz]

Could the S1M2 be the ultimate landscape camera?

And, yeah, I do wonder about this as well. I suspect one (or more) of the big three will eventually do this with a high resolution sensor. Which would indeed be amazing.

 

[pdk42]

I seem to have the micro contrast mind-virus, LOL.

At least you're open about it George. Leica do make excellent lenses, but so do other manufacturers. I don't believe in those that say there is a "Leica look".

 

[pdk42]

Have you watched any videos that cover the BF interactions? It’s clear they innovated in several areas of the UI - I don’t need to explain how. As to whether or not it’s more enjoyable to use than a typical mirrorless body, that’s clearly a personal decision.

Even without an EVF, the lack of a second dial is a complete non-starter for me. Fancy little LCD displays and some tweaks to the PASM mode approach couldn't ever make up for the lack of a second dial.

 

[pdk42]

Could the S1M2 be the ultimate landscape camera?

Stop it Charles!

 

[GeorgeHudetz]

At least you're open about it George. Leica do make excellent lenses, but so do other manufacturers. I don't believe in those that say there is a "Leica look".

<oops, I thought you said that you *do* believe there is such thing as a “Leica look.” Oh well, my answer still stands.>

I do as well - at least, some lenses are better at rendering fine detail (hence a realistic “3D look” when viewed at 100%) than others. Whether or not there is more to the “Leica look” is beyond me at this point.

My S-Pro 70-200 has excellent micro contrast/fine detail at f/5.6. So does my Sigma 65/2 stopped down a bit. I’m probably going to buy Sigma’s 28-45/1.8, as it has garnered much praise along those lines (huge thread over on Fred Miranda). My Sigma 20mm/1.4 also has it. So it’s good that one can get that style of rendering (or at least fine detail) without paying Leica prices.

In fact, when I think about it, it’s interesting that Sigma seems to be interested in creating "Lecia-like” lenses and, one could argue, bodies - with the BF being the only example of the latter. Perhaps they really are trying to be an affordable Leica.

 

[pdk42]

In fact, when I think about it, it’s interesting that Sigma seems to be interested in creating "Lecia-like” lenses and, one could argue, bodies - with the BF being the only example of the latter. Perhaps they really are trying to be an affordable Leica.

"Great Lenses" (TM) produce images that have a subtle look/feel to them that lifts them above the mundane. A sort of feeling that a veil has been lifted from our eyes and suddenly the world is sharper and more vivid. It's not just resolving capability, but about the contrast across the fine details. I think "micro-contrast" is as good a way to describe it as anything else. Sometimes careful PP can make up for slightly inferior lenses, but it depends on the scene.

My Sigma 100mm macro I class as a "Great Lens". It's just uber, uber sharp with oodles of fine resolution and punchy contrast. My Sigma 35/2 get darned close to "Great Lens" too but it lags the 100mm by a smidgeon.

Amongst my zooms, the only one that gets close is the 70-200 f4 S-Pro. I can't say that I'm unhappy with the others I have (14-28, 24-105, 20-60), but they are just not quite at the same level.