Olympus 25mm f/1.8 lens review

[@Beardbrand]

Just picked up this lens today and stoked about it. Going to shoot future videos w/ this lens.

[@perpetualjon]

I started with the Panasonic 20mm pancake lens. It is a good equivalent to the full-frame "nifty 50" --referring to the fact that the 50mm lens on a full-frame camera is about the same field of view as the human eye. I can attest to the fact that the early Panasonic lenses just don't have the focusing speed as Olympus. I now only shoot with Olympus glass for this very reason. Great review!!

[@d4bid15]

I've had this lens for about 3months and although the images were sharp, I just didn't jive with the 50mm equiv focal length. Somehow I found myself changing lenses too frequently when I shot with the 25mm. So I ditched the 25mm and I now have a 2 prime setup (17mm f1.8 and 45mm f1.8) which gets the job done for me. Great video btw!

[@Michromatic]

The 45mm is definitely more my style too, but I do worry about recommending it as a first (and only) lens. Paired with the 17mm is a good combo, though.

[@HendrikDelagrange]

Waw, what a nice lens. The light is so beautiful. Reminds me of the old 50mm 1.8 standard lens of the OM SLR series at the time, it was as versatile and gave the same mixture of character but also a very pleasing neutrality. I had a set of lenses but ended up using the 50mm practically always for everything. It's called normal or standard lens because the field of view is the same as what the human eye sees sharply without any distortion or change of perspective. That is why it is so pleasing; it is as if it was a 'screenshot' from out own eyes.

[@Michromatic]

I've had my eye on that 50mm f/1.8 OM lens, it takes some pretty stunning shots even on a M43 camera. Naturally, it becomes a short telephoto lens on M43...

[@jasonsonism]

Michromatic i've got some questions regarding manual lenses. lets say i bought the 50mm f/1.8, will it translate to 25mm on m4/3 format?

[@Michromatic]

Jason, a 50mm f/1.8 lens from another system is still a 50mm f/1.8 lens on Micro 4/3. Both of those numbers -- 50 and 1.8 -- are physical measurements of the lens that don't change based on the camera the lens is attached to. However, the field of view between the two camera systems is probably not the same. A 50mm lens on an old film SLR will give a totally different field of view than 50mm on Micro 4/3.

[@TerryD1023]

Just bought this lens for my EM10... LOVE IT.

[@faraz-i3x]

Thanks for making these great videos. I'm just getting into micro 4/3. Can't wait to start shooting!

[@DSD]

Nice review, just recently picked up the lens when it was on sale. I'm really happy with it. I have a pano 1.4 that i use for 90% of my videos and wanted another 25mm to keep in my bag. Honestly I'm really impressed with the Olympus lens and the price was really good. (I picked up the 1.4 on Craigslist for a super deal otherwise I wouldn't have bought it). Thanks for the review and I hope you start making videos again! -Duane

[@i_jaysmith]

Do you have a preference over the two 25mm lenses?

[@RealMrGreenTeaLatte]

Not sure if you did this on purpose, but I liked how your review reflected this lens's focal length: neither here nor there; in conclusive. I thought that was pretty awesome. Subscribed.

[@richdt]

Thanks, nice review. I wound up buying the 25mm based on your recommendation plus a few other positive reviews I found online. It really is a sharp, bright lens.

[@kitohammond]

Hey man. I just got into MFT photography. Your videos are super helpful. Keep it going Bud..

[@hugeshows]

It's called a 'normal' lens because it approximates the view of the eye. I have an Olympus OM-4 with a 50/1.4 and it is so good at being 'normal' that you don't have to close your left eye. You can see in stereo while shooting it. Neat!

[@timmschoof]

Nice quick overview! When showing the pictures the details like iso and shutter speed would be nice to know. Also: Since it's about the framing and the field of view, I think showing the pictures as they are and not doing the zooming in and moving over the pictures would be more instructive. Also I'd love a video or comparison to the Panasonic-Summilux-Leica 25mm f1.4 lens (and its warm character) especially since you talked about the neutral character of the Olympus and the 20mm Pana lens. Cheers!

[@MVM600RR]

Great review Ryan! It helped me decide which lens(es) to buy along with my new E-M5 Mark II. Tomorrow I will get my E-M5 MII and the 25mm 1.8 and 45mm 1.8. Don't think I'll regret it! (Coming from Olympus e-30)

[@charliefarley74]

Great informative videos. Nice review. Just influenced my decision to purchase the 25mm. Looking forward to using it. How about a long exposure tips video next? keep up the good work.

[@fotofigures]

Another great review. Yes I am now in the market for the 17mm 25mm and 45mm (3 prime lenses) No Zoom for me!

[@nicolopellegrini2553]

What do you think about Panasonic 25mm f1.7?

[@danduranduran]

50mm efl is considered "normal" or "standard" because it's roughly the same magnification as human vision. The angle of view is much more narrow of course, but if you put the viewfinder to your eye and then take it away, you'll see objects appear to be about the same size. 35mm is also sometimes called normal or standard because it's not that far off. Personally, I have the Panasonic/Leica 25mm 1.4, for my E-P5, and for me I think it's a better choice for still photography. It's much faster and quieter than the Panasonic 20mm, but not completely silent. It does have a bigger aperture than the 1.8 and fantastic color and bokeh. I have no doubt that the Olympus is an excellent lens, plus it's lighter, less bulky, and looks much nicer. Despite the Leica badge, the Panasonic looks like a Canon Rebel kit zoom! The Olympus may be better for video because of the silent focus. However, if you're mostly a still photographer as I am, or never autofocus in video as I do not, I would recommend the Panasonic. The Olympus didn't exist when I bought mine, but I'm happy to have wound up with it. Of course, back then it was $499, and now it's $597! At $349 the Olympus is definitely a better bargain, unless you got the Panasonic used. If you're considering either, you should definitely look at both. I don't know if focusing speed is any different, but the Panasonic is fast.

[@hanajurakova1285]

Hi, thank you for amazing reviews on Olympus gears. I really love their lens 17mm f1.8. However, I came across a weird issue with recording in C-AF mode. This 17mm leans is my go-to lens and I often switch between shooting and recording. But when I'm recording in C-AF, the lens is making weird "clapping" sound as it tries to focus. With S-AF or MF, there is no problem. Also my another OL 45mm lens is completely silent. I'm using Olympus ELP-7 body. As I read on many discussion, this is a mechanical issue and it's not cause by users. Can you please check this behaviour and advice, what to do? I reached Olympus service and I'm waiting for the answer, however it looks like I have to pay 120EUR for repair. I'm based in Berlin, Germany. Do you think that newest models have already fixed this issue? Best. Hana VIDEO EXAMPLE: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n4PFp6yietFsqbc

[@Michromatic]

I watched your video, that does seem like an issue with the lens. One thing to possibly test is recording in either Manual or Aperture-priority mode, with the aperture setting fixed. If you still hear the clicking, then it is likely autofocus related. (I suggest this test because the clicking sounds like a flickering aperture mechanism, though it's unlikely the problem if you hear the clicking only when in C-AF mode.) Another test would be to disable in-camera stabilization and record like that. I've never heard of anyone else with this issue with the lens, so I doubt that it is a common issue, or one that is dependent on when the lens was manufactured. Likely a repair or replacement is your option. (Or alternatively, just don't use C-AF for video.)

[@hanajurakova1285]

Hi, I cannot imagine not to use C-AF for video in practise. I tried all mentioned above but the clapping sound is still there. On youtube there are quiet a lot videos with this problem, so I will wait what Olympus service team will recommend me. I guess the products for this specific series can have a defect. All other lenses 45mm and 14-42 are working well. However, thank you very much for your help

[@hanajurakova1285]

I just got the answer from repair service guy, he said that it is fault due to design construction and it is not repairable. :( It is kinda of disappointing cos I really love this lens and can't believe that Olympus can make this kind of "design mistake" which will completely make this lens unusable for recording. :(((

[@lawrencejames]

I believe that it's called a "normal lens" because it is equivalent focal length of a 50mm on full frame. Which is roughly the focal length of the average human eye. Loving this channel. Am strongly considering getting the OMD EM10 along with this lens, the 45mm and a couple of kit lenses. Do you have a recommended wide angle lens for say landscapes etc?

[@Michromatic]

lawrencejames The Olympus 12mm is the widest lens I've used, and it's great for landscapes. Though frankly I'm still learning how to effectively use a lens this wide -- I tend to prefer longer :) This Olympus 25mm is surprisingly handy for landscapes, especially when equipped with a polarizing filter like I've been using lately. Also, the Panasonic 20mm is a great landscape lens. It's super, super sharp.

[@Leptospirosi]

50mm are called "Normal" lenses because they mimics the "scale" at which human eye sees things: in the same way, the 35mm mimics the angle of vision of a human eye. human eye is somehow a weird lens because it's the brain that sees through it. Somehow, you can look around "in focus" at 35mm, but you can "crop" at 50mm to focus on object. The human eye actually can gather light from almost 180° on the side and about 120° on the vertical but only the central part (35mm eq) is in focus, with the blurred rest of the field called "Peripherical" vision. To get a hint about how 50mm lenses work, you can get a FF SLR camera with a 100% pentaprism, put on a 50mm and look through the viewfinder with one eye while keeping the other open: you will see that there is no scale reduction between what you see in the viewfinder and in the real world.

[@Leptospirosi]

up close, looking someone face, our brain shifts again to something between 80 and 140mm and this is why we find "portrat lenses" so pleasing and we find lower focals weird ad distorting

[@yashwinning]

Thank you for this detailed explanation friend. I always got the short version of why a 50mm lens is called a "normal focal length" but I never knew that 35mm was the focal length at whcih the human eye kinda sees, and all those extra little details about how just unique and weird the human eye is. We're a fascinating bunch indeed. There's so much we still don't know about ourselves.

[@volimvolim1]

the eye is more like 44mm thus 50mm is almost the same

[@JayJayasuriya]

Thanks for the info. I'll be using this with my Olympus Air A01 Mirrorless Micro Four Thirds Lens-Style Digital Camera.

[@neoncollects7235]

You're an incredible photographer, also your ending was very wtf but adorable.

[@Michromatic]

Thanks! The cat says thanks, too.

[@NamuSenpai]

You should really point out that for micro 4/3s cameras the focal length gets magnified x2

[@Michromatic]

It's all relative. Magnified 2x versus what? What if the viewer's context is experience with APS cameras? Or iPhone? I do have a video about crop factor, but I prefer to limit the scope of crop factor talk to that discussion where I can make every point clear. Generally, I think throwing crop factor tangentially into a video like this is more confusing than helpful. People that understand crop factor already know what it means. People who do not understand crop factor will get unnecessarily confused. IMO, what's helpful is illustrating the field of view you get through a lens, which I've tried to do here.

[@matts3690]

I really enjoy your videos! With the simple explanations followed by examples and the music is a nice touch too. After doing some research I am considering this or the Olympus 17mm f1.8 as my first prime lens. Unfortunately choosing between the two is a tough decision.

[@Michromatic]

Are you currently shooting with a zoom lens that covers both 17mm and 25mm ranges? Looking through your past photos to see what you shoot more with might help make the decision. I have both lenses and if I had only one would choose the 25mm, but it's very personal -- I struggle with wide angle. Both lenses are great. The 17mm has more character to it, which is great for photos of people / street scenes.

[@matts3690]

Yes. I currently have two lenses. Both of them are 'kit' zoom lenses. A 14-42mm pancake and a 40-150mm. I guess I'm looking to gain low light performance mainly, along with all the other benefits of a prime lens!

[@JMGauthier]

I love this lens. Bought it awhile ago.

[@kb5ql]

Just got this as part of the lens + body deal for $249. Great little lens.

[@Michromatic]

Sounds like a helluva deal!

[@theexterminator]

It would help if you watermark each picture you took with aperture and shutter speed... Otherwise great!

[@keeshiagaviola1141]

Hi, I just want to ask this: if you had to choose between a 45mm and a 25mm lens, which one would you pick? I watched your review on the 45mm and was planning to get one, but now that I've seen this, I'm on the fence. Hope you could shed some light on this :)

[@Michromatic]

If you can have only one lens, I think the 25mm is the safer bet. It's just easier to use in more situations. If, however, you already have another lens that covers the widish angles, you might have more fun with the 45mm.

[@jamesgreer7615]

Cool shots of Monterrey Bay area. And.. I'm getting this lens

[@keyzbee]

Thanks bro I love your videos!

[@twoblink]

I was getting only about 30% of my shots in focus with the Panasonic 20mm; and so I ditched it for the 25mm F1.8. Couldn't be happier.

[@gjhhj6y]

Nice video as always. Why wouldn't you pay a little more for a Summilux 25mm? It's maybe a little bulkier, but f1.4 could be handy?

[@Michromatic]

Not a bad option! I haven't used the f/1.4 lens myself outside of a couple of shots in an office, but f/1.4 is definitely nice to have and the Panasonic has a bit more character to the lens. The bulk is somewhat of an issue, but more is the price -- it's still another $100-150 more than the Olympus. If it was my fave focal length, I'd say it's worth the extra cost, but 25mm isn't my fave despite being so flexible.

[@TheOmanJam]

I like the photos in this review. The mean cat at 4:18 after the gorgeous misty road at 4:11 would not look so mean if its paws were in focus. That cat has killer eyes! Interestingthat you like it better than he Panasonic 20mm. I have been looking at Panasonic 20mm/1.7 versus the Zuiko 25mm/1.8 or 17mm/1.8. The 25 1.8 is probably my first choice. I saw a couple of mediocre reviews of the Zuiko 17mm/1.8 including one that liked the 20/1.7 better than the 17/1.8 and showed pictures whenre the 20mm always looked better than the 17. I have seen a lot of good pictures with the 25/1.8 though and I used to love my old Zuiko 50/1.8 on my 35mm Olympus SLR cameras so this is its twin.

[@OutRAjious]

the lens you’re using on this video is perfect

[@ozmoo]

I bought this lens with my new camera on your recommendation. I'm new to the photography game and was sold a UV filter along with it (to protect the lens apparently). I have since seen conflicting pros/cons of UV filters. What are your thoughts on UV filters/lens protection?

[@Michromatic]

ozmoo I don't use UV filters. Generally speaking, putting glass between the lens and your subject introduces potential problems -- glare, or the glass has some other negative impact on the image. Realistically, under normal circumstances it's not something you'd ever notice (well, glare you would notice). Lens Rentals did an interesting experiment with stacked UV filters. It's not a realistic scenario -- they stacked 50 filters -- but does show an exaggerated view of what a filter can do. www.lensrentals.com/blog/2011/06/good-times-with-bad-filters That said, the impact is so minor that if I thought I got some benefit from the filter I wouldn't let it stop me from using the filter. I use polarizing filters all the time, for example, which would be subject to the same potential issues as UV filters. I just don't see much benefit from a UV filter. I've been shooting ILCs for a decade without a UV filter and haven't scratched lens elements.

[@ozmoo]

Cool, thanks for the info. Keep up the good work with your videos. I have learnt so much from them already. Your information is the most concise, entertaining and cat filled I have found on KZbin.

[@GavinMcAuley]

Im just starting to use it. And it is bokeh heaven. I have seen some excellent low light shots taken with it. Thanks for the review.

[@Leptospirosi]

BTW, I'd like to see a review of your Olympus 75mm!

[@Michromatic]

+Leptospirosi Here's my short version: It's a little big and heavy for Micro 4/3, and it's got a pretty long reach that can be hard to work with if you're used to zooms...but the image quality is great and the focal length is great for certain applications. Here's an album of photos I've shot with the 75mm: www.flickr.com/photos/markryansallee/albums/72157653380618185

[@valdiskrebs566]

Michromatic 75mm is great for performances... concerts/theatre/ballet... and indoor sports like basketball, volleyball, gymnastics.

[@malibération]

Hello, everyone! I am stuck between buying the Panasonic Lumix 25mm f/1.7 vs Olympus 25mm f/1.8 (this one) for my Panasonic Lumix G7. Atm, the Lumix is slightly cheaper, but the small price difference doesn't bother me if the Olympus will be greater in image clarity. I hope someone can help me out

[@Michromatic]

I've not used the Panasonic, but I hear it's quite good. Some people prefer the Olympus still -- mostly because it's smaller.

[@rastisetya2841]

Which one do you think is more usable for m4/3, the 25mm or 35mm lens? Nice review btw. I love your video about fujian 35mm and helios 58mm. And end up buying those lenses too. I love my helios lens very much.

[@taylor1038]

Is there enough difference between 20mm and 25mm to justify buying this? I like my 20mm f1.7 a lot, I think 40mm equivalent has been said to be closer to the human eye and slightly wider can be more forgiving.

[@XxXKARLx]

I believe it is called normal because it is roughly the same focal length as a human eye :)

[@Michromatic]

Karol Pietrzak You know I've heard this, but I don't really buy it. My field of view is WAY wider than a 25/50mm lens. Maybe it's more to do with distortion than field of view?

[@XxXKARLx]

Yeah maybe. It does not matter much lol. As far as we know, normal is between wide and telephoto ranges.

[@hutchisonworks]

Karol Pietrzak Maybe 50mm is called 'normal' because it shows perspective similar to how our eyes perceive it? Anything less flattens, anything more increases.

[@arpadzakar7442]

It's kinda weird, ppl say that a 25mm lens on a m4/3 system will give you a 50mm fov, ,but it's still gives you a 25mm fov in the viewfinder, only it will be half size compared to a full frame system.

[@XxXKARLx]

It does not give you 25mm in the EVF. It gives you 50mm. I know this from experience. You do not get what the lens is rated at but the equivalency to a 35 sensor.

[@sonicbrush]

I want to do time-lapse on a slider of the Milky Way with landscape in the foreground. I have the Panasonic G6 with 14-44 kit lens at f4 and a Panasonic 45-200mm f/4.0. I'm not having any luck because of the slow f stops. I was wondering if you've done anything like what I want to do with the Olympus 25mm f1.8. I'm also eyeing the Leica Summilux 15mm/F1.7 ASPH and the Olympus M.Zuiko 17mm f1.8

[@Michromatic]

I haven't done any time lapse, no, but I have done long exposures. With star shots, the length of your exposure is largely limited by the movement of stars in the sky -- they're faster than you might think. At 25mm on a Micro 4/3 camera, even 15 seconds exposure will result in minor star trails. Check out this photo of mine with the 25mm and a 17-second exposure. Zoomed out, the stars look pretty clean, but zoom in and you'll see they started to become lines instead of dots. www.flickr.com/photos/markryansallee/16165427008/ Generally, a wider field of view (i.e. a shorter focal length) will allow you to use a longer exposure before stars start becoming lines. IMO, the 25mm can do star shots, but it's not ideal because it's not very wide. I don't have a ton of experience with star photography, but I have had better luck with my 12mm lens than this 25mm. You might also consider the Samyang/Rokinon 7.5 fisheye. With landscape/stars, the fisheye effect won't be very detectable, and it's as wide as it gets on M43. Cheap, too.

[@sonicbrush]

Thanks for your expeditious response, Michromatic. I may have to rent a few lenses for my purpose before deciding to buy, keeping my choices to f1.8 or lower The voightlander f.95 is a good candidate but it cost more than my Panasonic G6 at $995.

[@vanessabarbosa3681]

I'm thinking to buy a 25mm... why Olympus m.zuiko 25mm f/1.8 over Panasonic 25mm f/1.7??? Besides the size of Olympus??

[@Michromatic]

I haven't used the Panasonic, so I can't give direct comparisons. But size is one factor -- the Olympus is smaller.

[@danwahab]

if compared to the Olympus 45mm there would of course be the difference of the focal length, but would you say the background blur/bokeh is just as good? I own the 45mm and love it. just now toying with the idea of a shorter focal length for more general videos/photos. Should i consider this?

[@Michromatic]

Yeah, the bokeh quality of the 25mm is great, and reminiscent of the 45mm. Do note that you won't get /as much/ bokeh because it's a wider lens. Here's a 25mm shot that shows the bokeh well, shot at f/1.8: www.flickr.com/photos/markryansallee/16116103134/

[@erniestreet9544]

For a first lens, should I get this or the 45mm f 1.8?

[@Avjoti]

Wondering just the same.

[@Michromatic]

The 25/1.8 makes a better first/only lens. If you already have a kit zoom lens, however, the 45/1.8 is a bit more exciting addition.

[@PeacefulMoments1844]

Can you manual focus this lens?

[@MrJueKa]

a "normal" focal length/lens = a normal or standard lens is a lens that reproduces a field of view that generally looks "natural" to a human observer under normal viewing conditions, it`s nearly the same field of view as the human eye = around 47mm (full frame) - I personally would prefer a 35mm (full frame) or a 17mm (M43) and a 80mm (full frame) or 45mm (M43) instead to start with see "Wikipedia" for more infos: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Normal_lens

[@mikaelbagesund6170]

Hi, I have quite recently commissioned a GX7 with 20mm 1.7 as kit lens, do you think it is an approved lenses or I would have taken something else? for example, the zoom lens, I shoot just about anything and have recently found interest in street photography. Thank you very much for an incredibly good show.

[@Michromatic]

The Panasonic 20mm lens is a fantastic bit of glass. I recently did a video comparing it to this Olympus 25mm. In some ways, the Panasonic is better. IMO it's way more interesting than a zoom lens. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bIqnhaevl92jlbs

[@mikaelbagesund6170]

Michromatic Thank you so much for the reply, I appreciate that you take the time and answer. Regarding the Panasonic GX7 I have recently ordered so says Steve Huff in its channel that it is a camera mostly for family holiday but I feel it is a bit more advanced and professional for just that reason, in my opinion, it seems to be an excellent street photo camera and also a great camera to have with you during concerts, weddings etc. because it is so quiet. What is your opinion?

[@Michromatic]

The GX7 is a great camera, I recommended one to a friend last year. Very similar to my EP5.

[@Eri94]

Just found your channel and I was wondering, I'm picking up a OMD EM 10 mk 2 body soon for traveling to Cambodia. Would it be good enough to just have a 25mm 1.8 and 45mm 1.8? Or would you suggest something else?

[@immanueluy8060]

I'm really hoping you would be able to reply to this question. I'm wondering whether or not the mark 2 EM5 is definitely worth getting over the half-the-price mark 1 EM5. I just recently sold the a6000 due to the very expensive lens selection as well as the rarity from where I am from.

[@Michromatic]

+Immanuel Uy Good question. My short answer is, "Probably not." The EM5 II has some new features that are great, including a much improved electronic viewfinder and an ultra-high-res shooting mode. For me, the high-res shooting doesn't seem very useful, but the improved viewfinder would be nice. But it's hard to argue that the improvements are worth 2x the cost, if you can find an older EM5 I that cheap. It's a personal choice, and really comes down to how comfortable you are spending the extra money. Because you don't need to.

[@immanueluy8060]

Thank you for replying!!!!! In terms of the em10 mk ii? Is it comparable to the em5 mki/mkii in IQ? Thanks!

[@Michromatic]

Immanuel Uy IQ is comparable, yes. The Mk.II has a high-res mode that could produce significantly better results, but its uses are limited to tripod shooting. If you always do tripod shooting of static subjects, you would see some benefit from the Mk. II. Personally, I never shoot that way so I wouldn't benefit from it.

[@immanueluy8060]

+Michromatic Last question. Lol sorry, I just wanted to be sure and so I'm asking a lot of questions before purchasing. In terms of the 25 mm / 45 mm, which is the topic of this video, which one would you highly suggest? I understand that the 25 mm is what you would recommend first, given your first statement of this video, but I just wanted to show you what I usually shoot. I haven't figured out a sweet spot just yet when I had my a6000 and kit lens. These are the shots, I've taken with my previous a6000 with the kit lens. instagram.com/re.imn/ Didn't meant to be a bother with all the questions!

[@Michromatic]

+Immanuel Uy Looking at your photos, it seems like you prefer shooting wide vs. long, which leans me toward the 25mm. Personally, I'd pick the 45mm for myself but it really comes down to what you like to shoot.

[@wasserstoff1505]

Hi! I like you videos. They are well taken and informative. I am thinking of getting either a 17mm F1.8 by olympus or this one. Can you do a comparison between these two lenses? What is your take on this? Thanks!

[@Michromatic]

wasserstoff1505 I've had both, and I prefer the 25mm. But it's a personal preference -- both lenses are good, but I prefer the slightly tighter framing of the 25mm better.

[@Tzadeck]

+wasserstoff1505 If I were you I'd get the 25mm and then save up to eventually get the 12mm (or, alternatively, the 12-40 2.8). I have the 17mm but I still want the 25mm, haha.

[@vintagevestige]

hi i currently have the EM-10 and the kit lens 14-42 and 40-150 as well as the 45mm f.18 lens. I'm thinking of getting either the 17mm or 25mm lens if they are within my budget but am not sure which would be more practical. I would like to take photos when i'm overseas, of people and landscape, and if possible the stars. Thank you for your help!

[@Michromatic]

+huiyi It sounds like you've got a wide range of focal lengths covered, what are you looking to get from a new lens that you can't already do? Both the 17/1.8 and 25/1.8 are great lenses, and both serve similar uses.

[@AndrewSidarta24]

what do you think about this lens compared to panasonic 25mm f1.7? In terms of image quality and price point comparison.

[@RotterStudios]

Great video. It's this or the Panasonic 17mm for my gx85

[@nilazz]

I was and avid listener to IGN Tech Fetish and I KNEW I recognized the voice in this video! Never seen the face before, anyway great review, got one of these on a great Black Friday deal.

[@kitohammond]

Im looking at the Olympus 25mm 1.8 and the Sigma 19mm 2.8 and the Sigma 30mm 2.8. Which should I buy for general shooting?

[@Michromatic]

+Anchorblahzay I haven't used the Sigmas, but I personally chose the Olympus 25mm.

[@arnebangjensen9392]

I have just got a Olympus OM-D EM-1, so very usefull

[@saschahoppe4833]

could you compare this lens to the sigma 30mm 2.8 lens? it's an alternative that is nearly half the price.

[@inspireyourwanderlust7368]

Why is it not good for selfies?? Do you recommend it for video blogging? I mean on hand blogging appearing yourself. Thanks!

[@Michromatic]

If you have really long arms, it could be good for selfies :) For video blogging I think it's great -- in fact, this is the lens I use for all of my videos. But that assumes you have the camera on a tripod and can take a step or two back from it. For selfies, where you're holding the camera, it's not as good. In this video I show why: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qX7CaXyVaKqUiacm51s

[@inspireyourwanderlust7368]

Thanks!! And what do you recommend for selfies? I record videos holding the camera with my hand when i travel

[@inspireyourwanderlust7368]

I see you answer that on the other video!! Thanks!!

[@ДимкаШудренко]

Hello, could you manually change focus and diaphragm on this lens?

[@tatawisa7881]

Hello, which is e a better choice ,pana 25 1.4 or the Olympus 25 1.8? Thanks for the review and for the advice.

[@Michromatic]

+domi mochina I've only used the Olympus. The Panasonic is a bit faster -- good for low light and bokeh -- but the difference is pretty small. The Olympus is quite a bit more compact (and cheaper) so it's my choice, but both are great.

[@tatawisa7881]

i decided to buy the olympus . thanks you for advice.

[@Stuckonsidequests]

Which song did you use as the background music for this video? it's quite catchy.

[@zatoichiable]

how far is the camera when you shoot the video?

[@Michromatic]

+Zatoichiable About 4 feet away. About a foot past arm's reach.

[@juminy7]

What camera do u use for video?

[@Hexarmin]

I have a Gh3. Does the Olympus 25mm shoot as 25mm or is it equivalent to a 50mm on a 4/3 camera??

[@Michromatic]

+Hexarmin A 25mm lens on Micro 4/3 gives the same field of view as a 50mm lens on a full-frame (or film) camera.

[@VarpuTheGreat]

This lens paired with MCON‑P02...

[@michaeljones8496]

and that was talked to death below! Great videos, keep it up!

[@durango-CODEBUILDER]

nice intro guy! Soo Ive done a stupid thing, possibly the stupidest thing a person could do. I impulse bought 14-150mm lens for my em5mkii. And from what Ive heard on KZbin, its not a great one. Its probably worth mentioning it hasn't actually arrived yet and now Im freaking out a little lol. Ive got a 50mm for my a6000 but its got dust on the sensor and is annoying when Im shooting at smaller apertures, which I do a lot. I like shooting landscapes and street so do you think I should return it and get the 25mm?

[@Michromatic]

IMO most statements about equipment being good or bad are generally overstated -- the 14-150 is certainly capable, and will have flexibility where the 25mm won't. It comes down to how you plan to use the lens. Personally, I'd take the 25mm instead, but that's because I know it suits the photographic process I like and how I visualize my environment.

[@reflechant]

Hi ! Could you please review those Sigma primes for micro 4/3 cameras? Do you think one of them, e.g. 19mm f2.8 can be a good first prime if on budget?

[@Michromatic]

evocatus2 I haven't heard anything bad about those Sigma lenses, but I'm also not likely to ever buy them since I already have a handful of 1.8 primes. The Sigmas should be good on a budget, but I'd personally save for the faster glass.

[@chongkokman572]

Michromatic

[@xShySter]

Do you think it's worth buying the Olympus 25mm f/1.8 over the Panasonic LUMIX G 25 mm/F1.7 ASPH? Prices in my country are 218 euros for the panasonic and 335 for the olympus Nice video btw! Edit* i will use it on a lumix g7 just for videos and i'd like to achive a great bokeh

[@yashwinning]

Go with the Panny instead. The Olympus 25mm is a good lens, but imo it's way overpriced

[@TeQ-bj1hr]

The Dead Immortal ty man definitely going for that :)

[@happyeverydayeverydayokay3407]

Just wanna ask what m43rd camera you used for the most of your review?

[@Michromatic]

Olympus EP5 + EPM2, interchangeably.

[@huiyong122]

Would you recommend this over the 17mm f1.8 for my first and probably only prime lens?

[@Michromatic]

For my personal preference, yes, I'd pick the 25mm. But know that it's a personal preference for the field of view through a 25mm lens -- not because the 25mm is technically superior or anything. The 17/1.8 is a great lens, too, and I do wish the 25mm had the nice metal construction + focus ring of the 17mm.

[@rolltrollroll]

Why not the m.zuiko 17mm 1.8? ;-)

[@Michromatic]

Trying to get ahold of one of those :) Personally, I tend to favor longer lenses anyway so methinks the 25mm is still my choice for "all-rounder," but yeah, the 17mm (and Panasonic 20mm) is another great option, just a bit more expensive.

[@1337flite]

***** - with you - the 17mm is my favourite walk around. I find a 50 equiv too long.

[@rolltrollroll]

jtan163 I have 25mm 1.8 due to not that great reviews of 17mm 1.8 ;-) Sometimes I miss a little wider lens and then it forces me to be more creative with what I want to take picture. Thinking about 12mm... -.-

[@pers4855]

I like the lens alot but my copy focuses very slow at times

[@KingDavid2nd]

Nice and clear, and beautiful photos. just Subscribed...

[@Michromatic]

Thanks!

[@karlworldpeace3208]

Hi Michromatic, since I can't afford a MetaBones SpeedBooster yet, will this lens be a good fit for my gh4? Thanks.

[@Michromatic]

+Karl Lacambra A great lens :)

[@karlworldpeace3208]

+Michromatic Final question if I would do photos and videos, what would you recommend? 25mm or 45mm? Thanks. :)

[@Michromatic]

Karl Lacambra The short answer is "the 25mm," and the long answer starts with a bunch of questions about what gear you already have and what you plan on recording with your video.

[@14kjar]

Can this definentively hold a 15" laptop; albeit snug?

[@Kilo_of_Milk]

great video and explanation. Subscribed

[@MAMAYAYALALARARA]

Would you get this lens with the OMD EM5 II or the Sony FE 35mm f2.8 ZA Carl Zeiss Sonnar lens with the sony a7? Thanks

[@Michromatic]

+Thibault d'Auriol Well, I own this lens and the EM5ii, so I guess I would pick that :) But really depends on your wants. The Sony setup will be significantly larger and more expensive, but with the usual benefits of a larger image sensor.

[@samhipps8435]

Which camera do you use for filming these

[@Michromatic]

+Sam Hipps I've used a few different cameras for my videos, but pretty much always use the Olympus 25/1.8 lens. This video was shot on the Olympus E-P5.

[@Brar2790]

@michromatic how good does this lens work with Olympus em 10 mark II?

[@jamescole322]

Love your reviews. I like that you call MFT lenses what they are and don't go off converting to 35mm FF equivalent all the time. It's a 25mm lens with all the characteristics of a 25mm lens. Why does everyone else go of converting to FF equivalent... Eg, 50mm FF (or if your Tony Northrup saying it's a 50mm f3.6, but only for DOF and total light gathering, is f1.8 for your exposure). I like Tony Northrup, but this is confusing. Noone would say "its 50mm on 35mm FF, which is equivalent to 80mm in 6x6 and 300mm in 8x10". Just silly. Keep talking about MFT lenses as they really are!

[@Michromatic]

Yeah man, crop factor is useful to know, but if you're like me and just shooting in one system, there's no reason to constantly refer to 35mm FF equivalent. It's not like FF lens reviews are always converting their focal lengths and apertures to medium format values :p

[@nvduyanh96]

This lens or the 45mm f/1.8 ? I want a lens have a fast auto focus for snap shot everyday and nicely brokeh. can you help me ?

[@Michromatic]

+Duy Anh Nguyen Vu Both fulfill your needs. The 45mm will give you more bokeh for sure. I'd recommend the 45mm, depending on which other lenses you already have.

[@nvduyanh96]

+Michromatic thank alots for answering my question . I own a 12-40 mm zoom lens. but I cant capture the brokeh with that lens. any suggestion for me ?

[@Michromatic]

Duy Anh Nguyen Vu Set it to 40mm and f/2.8, get close to your subject = bokeh :)

[@arnebangjensen9392]

I like the video Mark, as I like all your videos, they are all very usefull, thank you

[@Michromatic]

Thanks Arne ;)

[@Юлия-х7ц6о]

Thanks for the review, it's great ✌️

[@krampongy]

hi what kind of camera body u use to your photos?

[@Michromatic]

All the photos in this video were shot on an Olympus E-P5.

[@EkaterinaZolotova]

Great review! Thanks!

[@jonfeby]

Thanks for the review. Maybe i’ll take 25mm than 17mm because this one is cheaper than 17mm. I hope i will not regret it. The last time i saw your review about olympus epl7 and i decided to buy it and I’m a lil bit disappointed with the results * maybe i dont know how to use it correctly or maybe bc im using a basic lense . Well, i always love your videos and your eyes too . Lol 😂😂

[@Michromatic]

The E-PL7 is a solid camera -- it can definitely produce good results, don't give up :) The 25/1.8 lens is a great addition.

[@Nemes1sTKD]

Who designed the "M" logo and animation? also thanks for the helpful videos, long time Tech fetish listener and newly Michromatic fan.

[@Michromatic]

I did the design and animation. In fact, I might have started this channel earlier but I had to learn After Effects first.

[@micahfloyd1974]

Michromatic A good logo and intro music. Far too many gear reviews have terrible, long open animations. Your simplicity and sense of style are much appreciated.

[@MAMAYAYALALARARA]

Would this fit on a OM - D EM-5?

[@Michromatic]

+Thibault d'Auriol Yes.

[@dreamingkeni]

I don't see why people would hate your reviews. :)

[@Michromatic]

+Krenimc Ha, who does?

[@juanalvarado7794]

This or the 17 1.8?

[@jcantin9491]

Cat is si cute and you told us everything I needed to know about that Lens

[@johnhunter7206]

I was told that it's 'normal' because that's what your eye sees. Look at something with one eye normally, and the other eye through a 'normal' lens, simultaneously, and both eyes will (should0) see the same. So a normal lens is normal vision, QED.

[@Jay-nq1fz]

does anyone know the background music?

[@Michromatic]

+Jay At the beginning and end, it's a royalty-free song called "Carefree."

[@GAMERZ101]

can u vlog with it?

[@Michromatic]

All of my videos are shot on this lens.

[@CoalCandyX]

If you're thinking about "walk and talk"- vlogging you should probably go for something more wide angle.

[@moenlighted7681]

GAMERZ101 12mm 1.4 or 12mm 2

[@Crayonz014]

If you had 17mm, would you get 25mm?

[@Michromatic]

The two lenses are similarly solid "all 'rounders," the sorts of lenses you could throw on the camera and walk out the door without anything else. But the difference between 17mm and 25mm is pretty big. I have both lenses and use them distinctly differently. That said, if I already had the 17mm but DIDN'T have some other lenses (like the 45mm), I'd probably fill other holes in my gear's range before getting the 25mm.

[@Crayonz014]

Michromatic I currently have 17mm, 45mm and 40-150

[@Crayonz014]

Also, may I ask what you would you 17mm for and 25mm for? Thanks!!

[@Michromatic]

Both lenses are good "walk around" lenses, since they're wide enough for most situations but not super wide angle. 17mm is commonly used for street photography, and I think the character of the lens is good for that. 25mm is a bit better for portraits and will give you more bokeh in photos.

[@RS-ct6iw]

This or 17mm?

[@akaYu07]

Why is it called a normal lens 1:05 ? Because it is close to our "normal" field of view when we use our eyes :)

[@Lanterns_light]

Not weather sealed though...

[@Pipu91]

I thought that your videos are truly helpful. Then I saw the cat. Totally subscribed. A KITTEH.