Olympus E-M1X new firmware - [BIRD detection]

[@waynewallaceedits]

Yes, I agree they should put all the firmware features into E-M1X

[@petedraper5185]

Thanks for the demonstration, Peter. I hadn't thought about starryAF or human eyeAF on the EM1X until you mentioned it: I use my EM1.3 for portraits and parties, as well as macro, and my EM1X is solely for birds and other wildlife. But you make a good point; the EM1X should be able to do everything.

[@wayneemery5709]

Hi only joking about the Mortage my wife would divorce me tempting though 😂😂 I shot with 2 lenses the 300 and the 40-150.

[@marcusnz232]

I agree. I have two EM1X bodies and think they are fabulous cameras. It is obvious to me that the 1X should be a showcase like the Nikon D6 or Canon 1Ds. Where a feature can be added by firmware, it should be on that camera.

[@danielclifton4589]

Yes, I still love when I get a great image. It’s like the excitement you get when opening a present on Christmas morning. Also, it’s been many years ago since I visited Helsinki, but what a beautiful city.

[@duncanpeet4827]

I know you say you're not a wildlife photographer but have you tried the EE-1 Dot sight? It lets you shoot with both eyes open and away from the viewfinder and it makes it easier to follow the bird. You can also pick up peripheral things, so you can anticipate what might be coming. I also agree the starry AF should be in the EM1-X. There is AF face recognition 9Front, left and right) in the EM1-X which I find is enough. It may come with whatever succeeds the X as flagship.

[@ForsgardPeter]

I have tried the EE-1 Dot Sight. I also have a video about it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fojbiIx4hc6neLc

[@jeffslade1892]

They're tack sharp aren't they. The only 'problem' I have is when a bird is diving towards you at high speed as some raptors do, the distance travelled between focus lock and shutter release puts the image out of focus. The only effective recourse is to close the aperture for more DoF, but you still need that fast shutter and so you are using a pretty high ISO. Example buzzard display flight early autumn when they'll drop out of the sky like a stone at peregrine speed; they'll also fly inverted like golden eagle and raven do, with the advantage that the entire family of five to seven join in the fun. But at high altitude so you have to use your longest lens so your arm falls off. MFT has a good advantage, not only the weight but the crop factor too.

[@hpeterh]

I think to follow BIF (birds in flight) this should be combined with the Olympus red dot viewfinder.

[@ridealongwithrandy]

It does work well

[@ForsgardPeter]

Yes the EE-1 Dot Sight would help. It is a very good accessory.

[@wayneemery5709]

I have used the sight with great success.

[@jimbailey1122]

I use the Olympus finder on my Nikons

[@gusng695]

Thanks Peter for your test report, that is amazing. To be fair, using the 40-150mm Pro is easier to get sharp images. Once the focal length increases, say using the 300mm Pro, the chance would be decreased, especially adding a MC20 to it, it is really not very easy to get frame occupied sharp images. For such reason, I'm still awaiting in the future any professional testing with the E-M1X with firmware 2.0 + the new 150-400mm Pro + MC20 on B.I.F. and see what the result will be. Particularly with the price tag of the new lens is so outstanding.

[@berntlie6799]

It would have been nice if bird recognition came to the E-M1.iii... after all, the processor of E-M1.iii supposedly is twice as fast as the one on E-M1.ii, and the E-M1x has two processors like that in the E-M1.ii. But perhaps there are some programming problems with fitting the algorithms into the E-M1.iii?

[@ForsgardPeter]

Not sure if it is programming problems. I think it is just that the Bird AF is part of the AI-driven subject recognition and that is only in E-M1X.

[@berntlie6799]

@@ForsgardPeter Thanks. Yes, but unless the E-M1x has some hardware (AI processor) that the E-M1.iii doesn't have, they appear to have similar computing power -- and one would think it could be possible to program the AI-driven subject recognition in the E-M1.iii, too. If they find it worthwhile.

[@wayneemery5709]

Hi I have feeling it is because the em1x had 2 processors one decocted to autofocus only. As the AI algorithm uses a lot of processing power don’t quote me on this though 😂

[@UnluckyNewbie]

Really strange... Panasonic just added face and animal detect in 2.0 G9 firmware update year ago. Just in one update. Why oly cant do that for e-m1 ii and iii? + M5m3

[@berntlie6799]

@@UnluckyNewbie Oly uses AI in the E-M1x, which has 2 processors while the E-M1.iii has a single processor. "Rumors" say that the single processor in the E-M1.iii is twice as fast as each of the processors in the E-M1x, so conceptually they should have equal processing power. However, in the E-M1x, one processor apparently is dedicated to the AF (including the AI tracking), and the other processor is dedicated to other tasks. So there is a straightforward separation of tasks. With the single processor in the E-M1.iii, they would have to implement some multi-tasking procedures to achieve the same, and it is possible that such a multitasking OS is not trivial to implement. -- The alternative explanation is that the E-M1x in addition contains hardware for AI which is not included in the E-M1.iii.

[@momchilyordanov8190]

I can relate to the weather being different not so long ago. In my country we had 4 well defined seasons. And people had clothes for the winter, another set for spring/autumn and third for the summer. Several years already I do not use my spring/autumn clothes. Nowadays we basically have two seasons - colder one and warmer one. Neither being properly cold or hot like they used to be.

[@mwernermd1985]

I hope eventually the bird AF makes its way to Mark iii and or ii. I assume the processor in the mark iii being the IX not the VIII would handle the software update well. Do you have any info re: when this might occur. Thank you for a comment.

[@ForsgardPeter]

I am afraid that it is only for E-M1X. It is the only camera that has the subject recognition feature.

[@WolleKnoedel]

Hej, i just have to say, you are that sympathic and human, its a pleasure to watch your videos. And you have a great technical knowledge. Just stay as you are and keep up. :D greetz Wolfgang

[@ForsgardPeter]

Wow, thank you!

[@Bakin]

Great bird photos for a guy that doesn't normally shoot birds!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thank you.

[@jubourdin]

The feature looks great but that's a shame it is only EM1X and not a least EM1 MK3. I do not own either yet but X is too big for hiking and many of my birds shots are mountain birds avec a few hours of walk. Such a feature on EM1 mk3 would be one key feature for my choice in the upcoming system I'm looking for.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Unfortunately I think Bird AF s only going to be in E-M1X.

[@misenberg0203]

I photograph airplanes (propeller and jet aircraft) at airshows.The silhoutte of a fighter is similar to a bird in flight. Do you think the bird recognition software would track an airplane?

[@ForsgardPeter]

The camera has its own AF for planes.

[@richerich8007]

Thanks for the great video, can't wait for the update, as I'm a bird photographer. Even tho the 150-400 was about $2,000 for than I wanted to pay for it, I did preorder it!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Nice!

[@photohounds]

This is a subject I have always loved, but not been that great at. Was considering a MK iii but this is excellent as I always get grips, right back to my OM1 and OM2 days. In those days you needed an RB67 or similar to get reasonable resolution crowd shots to sell. I remember well, my shock when scanning my best RB67 negatives and raising that my EM5 left those negs for dead in every meaningful way, with the plastic 14-42 it came with. I agree completely with the "owner of a great camera" comment.

[@Jdlucas44]

Would be very useful if the bird detection firmware also included e-m1 mark III, then I might consider the new 150mm-400 mm lens.

[@ForsgardPeter]

It would, I agree.

[@ammadoux]

thanks Peter enjoyed every mint. cant believe a video specially for bird photography. was thinking of getting the leica lumix 200 mm f2.8. now i think i must consider the em1x

[@zanisgardening123-]

The fact Olympus doesn't sell more cameras than Nikon and Canon Sony ect are criminal there products are amazing

[@hanzkilian1806]

Thanks for this video Peter. Can you tell me your opinion. I have a Panasonic 100-mm -400mm leica lens. I am considering the EM1X, however I have the opportunity to get a Panasonic G9 at a good price. $600. I want to use the Panasonic 400mm lens with the camera. Currently I use the OMD EM1 mkII. Does the Panasonic G9 have a animal tracking system, similar to the EM1X Bird Tracking. What are your thoughts to the G9, would it be a better pick over the EM1X. Do you know the shutter life of the G9. I know the em1x has a 400,000 shutter life which makes this camera desirable, however I can not decide which way to go and would appreciate your thoughts. cheers Hanz

[@ForsgardPeter]

I have not used Panasonic G9. Have you checked out Matti Sulanto's channel? He has a lot videos about Panasonic.

[@GaleriaPuntoCiego]

THANKS FOR YOUR TEST AND EXPERIENCE IN THIS PARTICULAR AFFAIRE. FLYING BIRDS, NOT FOR EVERYBODY... BEST REGARDS FROM SPAIN. NANO.

[@cbooth2004]

That photograph of the hooded crow is a very nice image. You _should_ be happy! :-)

[@eduardolibby1394]

Great video Peter! Do you know if you can use this bird detection using the Panasonic Leica 100-400 on the EM1-X?

[@ForsgardPeter]

I think it works. Have not tested but I have an impression that it is not only for certain lenses. With faster lenses it works better.

[@markchambers8826]

Thanks for the demonstration. What happens if you are taking pictures of more than 1 bird ie a small flock. Does it focus on the closest bird?

[@ForsgardPeter]

It will first look for the bird in front and then start changing the bird where it is focusing.

[@formula162]

Hi, Peter! Perfect video 👌. Thanks a lot. What camera BAG was on your shoulders?

[@ForsgardPeter]

That is Endurax. I am testing it. Review coming up about it.

[@formula162]

@@ForsgardPeter ok. thanks. waiting for review

[@AllenMaestas]

There is no reason not to include this update on the em1mk3. Come on Olympus!

[@KaBal1]

Perhaps to slow processor?

[@ForsgardPeter]

Not sure why, but it seems that Subject Recognition is reserved for E-M1X.

[@linzhou1685]

Thanks for the video. Hope em1miii can get Bird Af !

[@ForsgardPeter]

I hope so too, but unfortunately it is not very likely.

[@wcgdenmasterken3431]

As always, I love your videos. If you are ever in the Central US, I will take you out to shoot some real birds, waterfowl of all kinds, it's amazing. Even people who are not "bird" people are touched by the experience of seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats.

[@ForsgardPeter]

That would be cool!

[@rodmehta5356]

Great video, and I also enjoy those little sightseeing trips!

[@williampegram]

Thanks Peter for the good info and nice facts of your beautiful country.

[@bobb.9917]

Where is your Oly 150-400mm PRO Lens? 😂 (yes...I saw your short, wet time with it). YES! All features should be on the EM1X! AGREED! Nice shots. 👍🏼

[@wernerwehner5541]

Hello Peter, great video. The backpack is a little big. best regards

[@bellasvistas3463]

Never too old to Rock and Roll. I hope I don't lose that spark either. Thanks.

[@dominiquedrouin7816]

I like the comment about "getting this camera doesn't make you a good bird photographer, it makes you the owner of a nice camera...." (or something along those lines) Cameras are like golf clubs and skis: 95% of the quality of the result depends on the skill of the user....

[@MDMiller60]

I'm finding the first bird mages to be soft, not sharp. At the zoo, still soft and the final birds appeared soft as well. I have a 1920 screen and I got close and used the bi-focal section of my glasses. When I glanced down to my keyboard, it was tack sharp. What the heck? Previously, I watched sample images from the 150-400 f4.5 1.25X and blew them up, to I guess 1:1, and they did appear tack sharp on my screen.

[@ForsgardPeter]

I was using the 40-150mm f2.8 at the Zoo and for the birds too..

[@MDMiller60]

@@ForsgardPeter I think it must be the way youtube compresses everyone images. I just want to make sure that the 100-400 is capable of sharp shots. I rented the 300 f4 for a week and confirmed that it is sharp. But, a zoom would be more practical but not if it's soft.

[@fsi2210]

@@MDMiller60 Have a look at Petr Bambousek and Andy Rouse. Both have tested that lens thoroughly and are wildlife / bird photographers.

[@MDMiller60]

@@fsi2210 Thanks.

[@MDMiller60]

@@fsi2210 I couldn't find the 100-400 from either guy. Will write to them.

[@robertburnett1762]

Thanks for the insight Peter, I for one can't wait to try this out.

[@mimstyle]

I hope this feature comes in a near futur on my em1 III... but no problem is already a monster (em5 III too), without that I can catch birds. Thank you for your video and nice photos !

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thank you.

[@kuau714]

Is it possible to assign a custom function button to turn on and off C-AF+TR with bird so lets say I normally shot with just C-AF no Tracking yet want to quickly change to C-AF+TR?

[@ForsgardPeter]

Yes it is. Just have the same settings and then one with C-AF+TR.

[@AndreasJoachimLins]

11:45 - "disappointed, that Starry AF did not make it ..." - EXACTLY. I won't understand companies like Olympus or Panasonic not to include all the features everyone is waiting for. I love my E-M1X but I don't shoot birds. I would love to get the better EyeAF feature from the E-M1III and the Starry Sky AF would help my work as well. Same with Panasonic - the G9 got a small update but still no Live Compositing mode. In times when the competition gets harder and harder it would be a mind changer for new buyers to improve an existing camera to max. functionality. Instead these companies separate products by software while destroying the flagship-attitude of their best products in line.

[@petercallewaert4492]

Thanks for the video Peter. Does aperture influence how well this new Bird AF works? Would you recommend wide open or rather 5.6 or something in between?

[@ForsgardPeter]

It is a bit slower when using extenders. I assume stopping down might slow it down. I did not test how much.

[@wildcat1065]

I look forward to downloading the Bird Af for my EM1x. I have been waiting for this feature since it was first rumoured. I hope it is as good as you suggest. I have tried the latest Canon R5 and the bird and animal eye Af works very impressively indeed on that camera as it locks on to the eye immediately and tracks it like it has a magnet attached. I don't know why we still have to wait until the 3rd December for the firmware as it is obviously ready for download now. It is also disappointing that it does not include the advanced human eye af that is already on the lesser EM1 mkiii. Like you, I really think it should be on the EM1x. As someone fairly new to Olympus, I feel they do seem to make some curious decisions. Having bought an EM1x I was not at all happy that Olympus improved the firmware of the mkii so quickly after I had bought an EM1x.

[@WilliamRees]

Peter, I love this video with the side stories. Did you use some kind of 360 degree camera to film parts of this?

[@ForsgardPeter]

Yes I did. The whole video is shot with Insta360 One X2.

[@kochlan]

Where can I get one of these OMD gloves ? :-D

[@ForsgardPeter]

Not sure if they are available. Got them from Olympus Finland a few years ago.

[@kirk0831]

Ohhh, I thought EM1X also has the human eye detect function in the EMI mark III. That's disappointing! I agree that EM1X should have everything in terms of AF functionality. It is the flagship camera!

[@ForsgardPeter]

It has but the one in E-M1 MKIII is better.

[@mfreider]

I am not a bird or wildlife photographer but this option is looks quite interesting. Just one more reason to consider to get EM1X. it is really tempting.

[@wayneemery5709]

I just sold my mkii to buy the em1x very very nice camera so I would go for it some good deals on the camera at the moment.

[@ridealongwithrandy]

My Em1X and the 300 Pro: www.flickr.com/photos/98163474@N04/49497242621/in/dateposted/ www.rsdunphyphotography.com/birds

[@ridealongwithrandy]

@@wayneemery5709 My Em1X and the 300 Pro: www.flickr.com/photos/98163474@N04/49497242621/in/dateposted/ www.rsdunphyphotography.com/birds

[@1Tosya]

Интересно смотреть даже не понимая языка )! Спасибо за ваши труды!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@kikeaMoldova]

Для себя я вижу это как книгу с картинками. ;) Обычно смотрю как фон, когда занимаюсь своими делами.

[@PostapoPotato]

Awesome shots! 👍

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks a lot!

[@bobb.9917]

Question: Is the face-detect AF better/different In the EM1 III than the EM1X? That caught me off guard when you touched on that...I thought that I knew EVERYTHING! 😂

[@ForsgardPeter]

Yes the Face and Eye Priority is better in E-M1 MKIII than it is in E-M1X. Not sure why they did not include that in the new firmware for E-M1X.

[@bobb.9917]

Yes...that Face & Eye Priority AF algorithm should updated on the EM1X, as well as adding Starry Sky AF mode. That's more than obvious. The flagship should have all the top options. 👍🏼 I fear that after 12/31 that there will be no more updates....

[@chetanunindracusin664]

Today december 3 I still waiting for it peter

[@ForsgardPeter]

It is available.

[@chetanunindracusin664]

@@ForsgardPeter just show in my com.thank you peter

[@ati6744]

Hello all i have banding issue m1 mk 3 on sky. Do you encounter same problem

[@ForsgardPeter]

With jpg it is possible.

[@ati6744]

@@ForsgardPeter thank you for replay. But i can see raw file on camera screen. İt is normal or sensor issue

[@johanankarback6821]

Really looking forward to try this feature. I´m making a lot of picture of BIF and I´m pretty good at it so it would be fun to test if this will improve the rate of sharp pictures.

[@RJPhotographics]

Really enjoyed this video. Thanks.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@rudolfabelin383]

I am Rudolf!!! My nose will soon turn red. 0:01 Santa Claus? Peter, Bird is the word If you remember that song! You're a bit too young..... Filled my bird seeders first time this autumn outside my house. Then I can sit inside and shoot.... LOL

[@Kin-qy1vc]

First of all, thanks for your video. Zoos are not good on one hand, but they do serve educational purposes to a certain extend. I think.

[@ForsgardPeter]

I agree.

[@royd63uk]

Agreed re starry sky and human eye focus

[@manwahau8026]

Very nice.

[@ridealongwithrandy]

You said it Peter, when I was shooting the US Navy Blue Angels, and knew I got the shot, I just started giggling cuz it was so cool to get it, and the camera made it so fun. It was very hard to track them with the 300 pro. I really wanted astro focusing. But birds in flight is good, we'll see when I get to use it. My Em1X and the 300 Pro: www.flickr.com/photos/98163474@N04/49497242621/in/dateposted/ www.rsdunphyphotography.com/birds

[@EugeneMaynard]

🙏🏾

[@ridealongwithrandy]

SO!, on my first day out I used the Bird AI, and found it to be very unreliable. The next day, I went out and went back to my old setup (1/2000, C-AF only, one small focus point) and got much better results. I was using the new 100-400, and the first day I thought I made a mistake in this lens, however, it was up to technique as the next day I had much better results, also using a gimble on a monopod helped a lot! . Topaz Denoise and sharpen AI used in this shot: www.flickr.com/photos/98163474@N04/50741717267/in/dateposted/

[@ulflundh5813]

Nice 👌

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks 😊