Sigma fp

Sigma is best known as one of the finest third-party lens makers, but it's always had an interest in making cameras too. The firm long ago learned that there's little point in competing directly with the likes of Canon and Nikon by making identikit DSLRs, so its digital models have always been slightly off the beaten track. It was the first to make a compact camera with a large sensor for higher image quality, with the DP1 in 2008, and has developed this concept ever since. Its latest model follows a similar theme, but takes another step up: it's the world's smallest interchangeable-lens camera with a full-frame sensor. The fp name comes from the musical notation ‘forte-piano' meaning ‘loud and soft, suggesting high performance in a discreet, unassuming package.

Indeed according to Sigma CEO Kazuto Yamaki, the design concept was very simple: to make the smallest possible full-frame camera for travel. To this end, the firm has removed everything but the essentials needed to make the camera work. So there's no viewfinder, with just a fixed rear LCD for composing your images.

The mechanical shutter has also been left out, leaving the camera reliant on an electronic shutter, and if you want to use an external flash, this requires bolting a hotshoe adapter onto the side. Indeed the fp is designed to be modular, with the option to add various grips and accessories to meet each user's needs. It's a really interesting concept, and quite unlike anything else you can buy.

But just how small is the Sigma fp, really? The basic body is a rectangular box measuring 113x 70x45mm, making it broadly comparable