Olympus Photo-experience 16 Zuiko 12-200 Lens

[@DerekForss]

Full listing of Olympus Photo-experience at kzbin.info/aero/PLBl67hsdFL3ui76-G2Z-yercf1klRleQB

[@stephenbrasure4331]

Thank you so much Mr. Forss. Your unique "reviews" reveal so much about a lens through the wonderful images you capture. As I search for reviews of lenses, I find myself looking for your input and thoroughly enjoy seeing images rather than the usual technical approach, which can be useful but tiresome. And, as someone across the big pond, I enjoy seeing areas of your country that I haven't seen. May you have many more travels!

[@DerekForss]

Thank you for your comments. I consider it more important to show what a lens can do rather than just talk about it and in a way that most photographers can follow. Best wishes.

[@scottdang4704]

Absolutely stunning photographic quality. So impressed by this marvel of a lens

[@DerekForss]

Thank you for your comment. I have many other programmes on my channel that may interest you.

[@alaskalonghunters2990]

So happy that I took this trip with you Master Derek, ive been intrigued with the 12-200, though I dont "need" it, at least I can dream. Excellent composition all the way and especially enjoyed the wind sound bytes. Great stuff. Looking forward to your composer series coming, all the best from Oregon, USA. Mark

[@DerekForss]

Glad it was helpful. Holst on Friday, just finished Vaughan Williams. Watch out for a publication date.

[@daleclark3138]

Beautiful locations and wonderful results as always.

[@DerekForss]

Glad you like them!

[@alaskalonghunters2990]

Another great tour, enjoyed the images and narration. Thank you!

[@DerekForss]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@MrVara411]

LOVED this video! Thanks.

[@DerekForss]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@tkarlmann]

I was lucky enough to travel to the UK (Manchester area) 4x; and I lugged (Ugh!) my 35mm gear with me to one of those old Mansions -- like the ones you pictured here. However, I was told I could NOT take any photos -- the reason given was that thieves would take photos of the items they wanted, and where they were, then come back, break in somehow, and steal them. I was really bummed out over this -- but your photos brought back my own memories of what I _could_ have photographed. Thank you! I loved your commentary too!

[@DerekForss]

More buildings, stately homes, cathedrals, etc, now allow photography when before they didn't. This is particularly true of Durham Cathedral and Westminster Abbey. At Mount Stuart, in the programme, they had allowed photography in the last year and I asked the steward why they had changed their mind. The answer was the smartphone! They couldn't stop people taking photos! The excuse about thieves breaking in was rather thin. Anyone with intent would simply buy the guide book. Thank you for contacting me.

[@beegbadal]

Excellent Derek. Good news that photography is now allowed at Mount Stuart. It wasn't when I was there a few years ago. Nice to see your take on some of my favourite places, but I can assure you the interior of the toilets is well worth 40p! They are stunning.

[@DerekForss]

Looks like I will have to go back to Rothesay for the loos! However, these days, I would be a little uneasy if I was spotted taking photographs inside a toilet. Not everyone appreciates architecture, particularly a loo! The relaxing of taking pictures inside Mount Stuart is one thing that we can thank the smartphone for.

[@rpdee7344]

First time watching your video. Well done my man, well done. Love all the parts of it, the photos, your narration, editing, the background sound effects makes me want to have an outing with you and do some touring. Like the way you showed the means of travel between sites. You should have your own travel channel.

[@DerekForss]

Hello Robin, I think you have covered just about everything! You may find my website www.derekforss.com of interest as I run Photographic Holidays. Many thanks and best wishes.

[@frodeingehelland7254]

Mr Forss. This was very good. The pictures were speaking, not a talking head. And exemplary commented from the bacground. Thank you!

[@DerekForss]

...and thank you. Had to check the slang meaning of 'talking head'! Definitely not! I give you pictures and not pixels!

[@garyvivian2896]

Wonderful frames and music. A link to the music would be much appreciated. Have just acquired a used 12-200 from Helsinki to Canada. Gary

[@DerekForss]

Thank you for your comments, glad to see that you have acquired the lens. Unfortunately, much of the music in the production is not commercially available having been acquired from the KZbin dedicated music channel and Free SFX. I did recognise the Bach: Brandenburg Concerto 4 and there are commercial recordings available but I did not use any because of copyright.

[@garyvivian2896]

@@DerekForss Thanks. Time to dust off our Brandenburgs!

[@andrewgynn4502]

I don't have a Olympus camera i just came a cross you and i have to say i did enjoy watching how close can the lens focus thank you.

[@DerekForss]

Thank you for getting in touch and commenting on my programme even though you don't have an Olympus camera. As a matter of interest, micro four thirds gives more depth-of-field at most settings and this may have something to do with the close focussing of the 12-200 lens and many other Zuiko optics.

[@simsav66]

Very Nice Photos, one question about the colors settings, Natural Color Profile or Vivid or Pop? And then Post Editing? Thanx

[@DerekForss]

I keep the camera colour profile on Natural, but enhance colours in Lightroom with the Vibrance slider. I hope that I don't overdo it.

[@simsav66]

Thank You, I like Your Peacefullness and how you See and capture those Beautiful Scenes!!! Colors are Amazing.

[@imcoop13]

Very nice video which showcased the lens very well. I’m thinking of coupling this lens with an EM5 markiii and assume it would fit well.

[@DerekForss]

Thank you for your comments, I am pleased that you enjoyed my video about the 12-200 lens. I used it on the E-M1mkii, which is slightly larger and heavier than the E-M5. I hope the ergonomics with the E-M5 will be OK. Best wishes.

[@poiderh]

Hello Derek, Love your channel, I have only the 14-150mm kit lens and am looking at getting something with a bit more reach, just curious, for your indoor shots do you use a lot of post processing to remove noise?

[@DerekForss]

I use Adobe Lightroom for post-processing. If dark areas of the image are lightened too much, noise can be added. Lightroom has a facility to reduce noise but there is dedicated software on the market that may do it more effectively. I have no experience of these products. I have done a programme about noise, here is the link: - kzbin.info/www/bejne/gqaroKSpibWba9k Lens choice should not make a difference to the amount of noise that might creep into the image.

[@poiderh]

@@DerekForss thank you Derek

[@ianmcnamara2100]

Instead of getting a 12 - 200mm , I suggest you compliment your 14- 150mm with a 75 - 300mm. It is much cheaper than the 12-200mm and has the same diameter as the 14-150mm.

[@djiatro]

I lived in Glasgow for a year, been to Inverness, Isle of Skye, port Patrick, glenco and highlands and one thing challenged me is overcast gloomy sky wherever I went to photograph. Nevertheless, Scotland is a beautiful place to visit and make memories.

[@DerekForss]

Thank you for your comments. I think that I was a little luckier with weather, but l had to work at it, especially as I live south of the Thames!

[@barandcross]

Some of the images in the Cathedral look somewhat "enhanced". Have they been edited in post and if so by how much? Thanks

[@DerekForss]

It was very dark inside both the Glasgow cathedrals, but when windows are included in the composition you have a dynamic range that the camera cannot record without some post-production by bringing down highlights and taking up shadows, restoring detail in both cases. It was also sunny outside increasing the dynamic range inside even further. It is a challenge to balance the two extremes when taking the photograph, HDR was not possible as I had to handhold. I had similar problems with excessive contrast inside Mount Stuart.

[@markrigoglioso]

Bravo! Awesome shots...I'm receiving the OMD MII tomorrow..!

[@DerekForss]

Thank you for letting me know, hope you enjoy using the OM-1mkii.

[@martinh8590]

Dear Derek, thanks for this excellent video. You give the 12-200 a very favourable review although your favoured lens seems to be the 12-100 pro that you own. I’d be very interested to know your view of how the two compare. Also you often refer to the in-built stabilisation of the 12-100 but from what I read this only adds half a stop of stabilisation over lenses without IS when paired with the EM1 mk2, for example. Is this a significant point when deciding between the two? Your videos are very watchable and informative. You have helped me learn a lot in a short space of time. Finally, I love your references to first class train travel and on-board dining!

[@DerekForss]

Dear Martin. Thank you for your comments about my programme about the Zuiko 12-200 Lens. Unfortunately, the lens was on loan from Olympus and I didn’t have the 12-100 Pro Lens with me on the tour. Therefore, I am unable to offer a direct comparison. I checked an Olympus brochure and see that the 12-100 provides 6.5 steps of correction. As to how that translates into practice, I can report that I have successfully handheld this combination of the 12-100 Pro Lens with the E-M1mkii at shutter-speeds up to ½ second at wide-angle. I would add that when using the 12-200 Lens in lowlight, for example the interior shots of Glasgow’s two cathedrals, I have successfully handheld it by relying on the stabiliser in the camera. I would add that posture is equally important and holding your breath as a marksman would also do. By the way, the 12-100 is constant aperture, the 12-200 variable aperture and I believe you lose two stops between wide-angle and telephoto. I am hoping that one day I can get back to travelling by train first-class! Best wishes.

[@69Olympus]

I have just purchased the MK2 with the 12-200mm lens. I was looking to sell the lens as I have the 12-40 and 40-150 pro lenses, but after watching this, it has inspired me to take it out and have a good crack with it. Thoroughly enjoyed this video! Cheers from Perth Western Australia!

[@DerekForss]

I enjoyed using the 12-200 in Scotland, unfortunately I had to return it to Olympus! My workhorse is the 12-100. Thank you for getting in contact.

[@AndresGonzalez-rm6fp]

if you want to sell those pro ones, give me a call...

[@undergreenthunder8037]

What do you think of it Steve?

[@DodderyIceDry]

Excellent information again from your good self. I am glad you have used this lens as I can now see the benefits of using it. I do own the 12-50, which I do enjoy, along with my prime lenses. One question I would like to ask is "Does the length of the lens upset the balance?" I shall now investigate this lens a lot more, Again, thank you for your information.

[@DerekForss]

I used the 12-200 on the E-M1mkii and had no issues regarding balance. However, if used on a lighter or smaller camera, such as a PEN or E-M10, matters could be different.

[@luzr6613]

What is (also) so beguiling is what I perceive as your habit of taking an inherently beautiful scene (talking Cathedral interiors here) and seemingly 'Adding Beauty'. I'm not sure what is more impactiful about the image... the inherent qualities of the interiors, or the manner in which you've succeeded in rendering them. It's early in the morning here in NZ. I'm aware of the interplay of my subjective sensibilities and what I'm viewing. I think I best have a cup of tea. Kind regards.

[@DerekForss]

Thank you for your thoughtful and perceptive comments. If I add 'beauty', then I do it subconsciously and something I do not have to think about. I get inspired by a cup of coffee! And Merlot!!

[@stephenfox5133]

Oh what a voice!!! I fear you may have missed your calling!

[@DerekForss]

I might have a bus pass, but it is never too late!

[@jayl673]

Many thanks for another great video, Mr Forss. Always enjoy watching them and listening to your voice. I am a newbie in photography and I am loving my new found hobby. I understand that it is a great travel lens but would you also recommend this lens for general everyday photoshoot such as street photography? Thank you.

[@DerekForss]

I am sure that the superior zoom range of the 12-100 is ideal for street photography, but I would use a smaller camera in the PEN range for such a task.

[@MrFirstdance2000]

The interior shots you found were wonderful! Did you find it satisfactory using 12-200 for the indoor shots or have you thought you might wish to revisit with another lens? Either way, loved the production!

[@DerekForss]

I had the 12-200 lens on loan from Olympus and took it up to Scotland for a week. As you probably know, it does not have its own image stabiliser, so I relied on the one in the E-M1mkii and it has seemed to work. I think that I would feel safer with the 12-100 Pro, but the 12-200 has worked.

[@MrFirstdance2000]

@@DerekForss It's a joy coming along on both old and new trips. Your joy of the adventure shines through!

[@DerekForss]

Thank you for your kind comments. Plenty to come of 'old and new'! Thank you also for supporting my work by being a Member.

[@MrFirstdance2000]

@@DerekForss It's an honor sir! So glad you remain and Ambassador for OM System, as well.

[@cheralynn4417]

Love your videos! My husband is now a fan, too :) Will you now prefer this lens for walkabouts or stick with the 12-100mm?

[@DerekForss]

The lens was on loan, which has been returned to Olympus. I enjoyed using it, especially its extended telephoto facility, but for sheer quality, I think that the 12-100 wins.

[@cheralynn4417]

Derek Forss thank you!

[@OutRAjious]

All in All …. do you prefer this lens to the sharper 14-150? thanks for an entertaining video!

[@DerekForss]

Pleased that you have enjoyed the video. I have to confess that I am not a technical photographer. I have tried both lenses and have been successful in getting my images commercially published from both lenses. I am sorry, but that is my criteria and some of my clients are quite fussy when it comes to quality. If they accept my work, I am content.

[@OutRAjious]

I’m doing this just for my own pleasure …. but am conscious of having to better than the ubiquitous iPhone, hence that little extra quality of ping and pop is crucial to me … especially as we are using M43. I love my pen f!!

[@DerekForss]

From a non-technical but experience view, I would consider the excellent PEN F to be a fantastic camera and that you will get superb results with practically any Olympus Zuiko lens, far better in quality than any smartphone. The PEN F has been available for several years but Olympus, now OM Digital Solutions, have decided not to update it.

[@OutRAjious]

@@DerekForss As you are an Ambassador I’d like to share with you I would redesign the next Pen f around the biggest poss screen, a 3.2 inch and scale it up to for that, as it’s a little small for my big fingers as is, I need help seeing all the settings … large as possible :) Thanks for your replies and happy shooting ..

[@nerdMike]

Great story-telling and real life presentation of this interesting Zuiko lens :)

[@DerekForss]

Thank you. Glad you enjoyed my programme, always good to hear when other photographers enjoy viewing my work. Have you seen any of my other programmes? Just put my name in the KZbin search engine. All good wishes.

[@nerdMike]

@@DerekForss I'll take a look for sure, thank you

[@jimspc07]

Excellent choice of well composed and chosen images displayed for your journey. Enhanced by a commentary that is a must. One slight quibble though, the use of vibrance was a little over for my liking. I tend to use the saturation a little and then maybe a smidgen of vibrance and usually bit of clarity (topaz labs) selectively for a lift in contrast, I never transfer settings each image I treat differently. But the vibrance is not overly so that it stopped me subscribing the you chose composition is expert. Thank you.

[@DerekForss]

Thank you for your comments. Colour is very subjective, you will never please everyone. I tend to use vibrance in preference to saturation, but agree that it is important to treat each image differently.

[@valdiskrebs566]

Nice photos! I really like the Oly 14-150mm on my EM1 Mk1. Would consider this lens if I did not have the 14-150.

[@DerekForss]

Thank you for your comments, always good to hear from other photographers. I have the 14-150 lens and have produced a KZbin video: - kzbin.info/www/bejne/d3q5hYeIl8R2qck I did find the extra zoom range of the 12-200 beneficial, particularly at wide angle for landscapes, or for including the whole of a large building. Best wishes to you.

[@valdiskrebs566]

Derek Forss Yes, I saw your YT video on the 14-150 lens... I enjoy all of your videos!

[@berniecawson6197]

Hi Derek just found your KZbin channel as I was looking for a review on the Olympus 12-200 lens which I am considering purchasing Your approach to not reviewing is rather refreshing just taking the lens out and using it . Just what I wanted the quality of the images Look very nice the reason for this lens is so I can reduce what I carry so I guess it of to the shops now . Thank you Regards Bernie Ps did you use a tripod at any time I am thinking not so silly question really Still never mind a

[@DerekForss]

All photographs in that production are handheld to keep faith with the travelling scenario. Although my workhorse is the 12-100, I enjoyed using the 12-200. I appreciate your comments about production. Far better to show the pictures and not endless shots of me wittering into a camera trying to be a presenter. Best to remain an 'enigma' and leave myself to people's imagination!

[@pokkrongsoontharasudth8853]

Superb video

[@DerekForss]

Thank you so much 😀

[@Kunal0915]

"I give you photographs, not charts" 👏👏👏👏

[@DerekForss]

Precisely! Thank you.

[@roarmalmin8428]

An excellent, informative and entertaining video, thank you 😃

[@DerekForss]

Glad you enjoyed them. Have you seen my KZbin channel? Over 100 productions available.

[@aerialfilm1]

Brilliant demonstration. I trust only your images are copyrighted and not your footsteps? I may have to come over and re-trace your journey.

[@DerekForss]

I often accompany other photographers on my holidays, so feel free to follow in my footsteps!

[@johnbentley1056]

Beautiful images. I think weight would be the main issues for me with this lens. I like my 14-150, 12-50 and 9-18 for the lightweight. I also like the smaller primes. That said the images you captured with this lens were beautiful.

[@DerekForss]

I walked long distances with the lens on the E-M1mkii, but there could be ergonomic issues if used on E-M10 or a PEN.

[@PaleHROse]

Nice

[@DerekForss]

Thank you.