OM-1 Mark II - My First Time Using OM System! Featuring Grand Canyon National Park

[@rudigerwolf9626]

Awesome! I’ve shot with Nikon, Canon, Sony, Leica, Fuji, Hasselblad and more. Currently using OM-1 and multiple lenses. Why: price, size and weight are significantly less, image quality, while different, is not different enough to warrant going back to bigger sensors. I’m now dedicating myself to really learn what this system can do. It is amazing! For the doubters… do the test yourself and then comment.

[@mamumonkan]

does it have night vision mode = EVF with red tint, to preserve night vision - such as my Panasonic S1 has ?

[@realBronko]

@@mamumonkan nope

[@Jwitherow1964]

Me too I am trying to get the courage up to sell off my extensive full frame gear I have four systems, as I’m getting older,The the lighter micro 4/3 0M one have done everything for me. the full frame would do. I still have to see about the portrait capabilities of the 4/3 rendering compared to 85 1.2 of the world.i have the micro 4/3 1.2 equivalent. How about the comparison let you know soon

[@davejsullivan]

I’m glad I bought my m43 cameras before I even knew what that was. I used them in an unbiased way and still love them. It’s amazing to have a lens with 600mm of reach that’s the size of a pop can and can be had for less than $500. The Olympus 75-300.

[@saernikke]

I have worked with both Nikon and Canon cameras. I also owned Nikon, Sony cameras and sold my FF Sony a7rV + gear to switch to OM-systems due to weight savings (I mainly shoot wildlife) and oh boy I regret nothing one of the best if not the best system ive owned. Beside that the 300mm f4 pro is the sharpest lens ive ever shot with, Its fantastic!

[@gregm6894]

You've made a wise choice with the OM System. I have retired from professional work in the last couple of years, but prior to that I shot weddings, portraits, and corporate events/conferences for 25 years, using Olympus/OM gear for most of that time. I never had a dissatisfied client. I now own an OM-1 Mkl, an Olympus E-M1X, and Pen F. I also have way too many lenses! I now shoot mostly Nature/Wildlife/Birds, and some occasional volunteer work for charities. One lens you really need to try is the amazing 12-100mm f/4 Pro. With that lens you can simply leave your tripod at home -- the Synch IS is hard to believe -- and it is razor sharp at every focal length and aperture.

[@rickpopham5400]

I was shooting Nikon full frame, but decided to try m4/3 about 10 years ago. I bought a refurbished E-M5 and a couple of lenses. I found that I picked up that camera more and more often than my D800. I continued to pick up more refurbished lenses and then the E-M5 Mark II. Now I have an OM-1, an OM-1 Mark II and an E-M1 Mark II converted to infrared. I print and sell photos and worried a bit about how the prints would look -- needlessly. I've printed to 15" x 20" and the prints are great. I rarely need anything larger than that. When I watched this I was thinking you were missing the 40 - 150 f/2.8, which is amazing. To save weight there's now a 40 - 150 f/4 which gets great marks in reviews, but I haven't tried it yet. Yes, the sensor is noisier at low light than the larger sensors, but the new noise reduction programs like DXO Pure Raw, Topaz, or the new features in LR/PS have pretty much taken away my concern for that issue. Overall, this system kind of sneaked up on me, and I've been pretty happy with it.

[@JeffreyJohnsonC]

I still use an E-M1 MII. It's been very reliable and durable. It has features that still compare favorably to new cameras. Love Olympus, and I hope OM Systems continues that legacy of quality.

[@DavidEnglert]

I'm glad you enjoyed using the OM/Olympus system. For years I used Canon (and I still have a 5d and a lense around), unfortunately my spouse viewed my gear as a vacation impediment, and would give me the stink eye when I started packing it, " don't you have a smaller camera" was the retort. I picked up an Olympus PEN-f two lenses that covered an effective 24-300mm that fit into a small sling camera bag. It gave me great images and the PEN-f had most of the functionality I use on the regular. I started adopting Olympus because the camera I bring with me is always better than the one left at home, and I haven't suffered for want of anything. I hope you get more time with the system. As for my current kit, I use the OM1 mk2 and the OM-1, 12-100 f4, 40-150 2.8, 12-40 2.8, 25 1.8, and a 45 1.8

[@javierrubio1380]

Professional sports photographer for several years, even today publishing pictures in articles. Experience with Canon for years, and with Sony from 2017. I have traded all my Sony equipment, including big telephoto lenses for Olympus/OM. So glad, but so sad not having done it before. 😊

[@MrChip1217]

Over my photographic lifetime, I’ve used a variety of equipment with a variety of lenses and sensors, what I’ve found d is that each has its strengths and weaknesses. Use the camera system that fits you best

[@LeighAndRaymond]

Agreed!

[@chetanunindracusin664]

You are right

[@robb8773]

As a former Nikon shooter, I know love the M43 system for all its advantages and have used it since 2015. My current body is the EM1 Mark III with a bunch of Pro lenes. I sell me work on line and through galleries. Not once has anyone said "oh, I'm not buying your work because it wasn't shot using a FF camera"!. Please people, its the shooter NOT the camera!!!

[@RenoDavenport]

I switched from Canon in 2015 because the gear was too big, expensive, and heavy. I started with the original Olympus OM-D E-M5 and have never regretted it. I am now shooting with the Olympus OM-1 from OM Systems and have a broad collection of their lenses as well as 3 exceptional lenses from Panasonic. With the weather sealing and integral cooling system, as well as the 8+ stops of image stabilization, I have been able to shoot in a sandstorm, heavy rain, cold and heat that would have destroyed some other cameras or meant heavy shielding. In Egypt, I fell into the Nile with my Olympus OM-D E-M1 II (bank gave way.) The camera was fully immersed briefly, and I just took it out of the water, shook it, and continued shooting. Rinsed it off later on the Dahabiya and dried it with a towel -- no problem. My favorite lens for just walking around is the 12-100 f4 Pro, and I now have the new 150-600 lens that gives me a 300-1,200mm full frame equivalent reach. When I go on trips where I really want to watch my weight and have the best range, I take the 12-100 and the Panasonic 100-400 f4-6.3. Two lens and one body with a range of 24-800 FF reach that fit in a small bag. Note that I have not found any limitations caused by M43 versus FF. One of my wildlife pictures is blown up to a 4'x3' on display in a museum in Barcelona and that was from a cropped picture.

[@mikemendoza750]

I just made the switch from Sony to The OM system!! I absolutely love it so far! I currently have the 12-40 2.8 and a 70-150 f4-5.6. I love how light this system is! I have had some medical issues as well so lugging around huge lenses has not been fun!! I am really enjoying this system!

[@wcareyphoto]

Being a longtime photographer as well, I moved to, then, Olympus cameras back in 2016 because I was so impressed with their capabilities and weight savings. Yes, the biggest hit you'll see is low light capabilities but that's an issue of micro43s cameras everywhere. My primary camera at the moment is the Pen F, the most misunderstood camera of the century! My photography changed a lot over the years and right now, I'm more interested in just having fun shooting and the Pen F is the most fun camera I have ever used. Small, compact and just overall, a beautiful camera that is fully capable of professional photos. One major advantage to OM Systems cameras is the price of their gear when compared to the competition. I am truly amazed by them every time I pick it up.

[@FieldingSmith]

I loved the Pen-F, but ended up with a GX8 at the time as it just fit my needs a bit better. I still regret not picking one up before the used prices skyrocketed. Man I wish both companies would release updates for those rangefinder bodies!

[@FrankPiercy]

I just finished watching the video and I have to say I am so very happy you have finally tried an Olympus/OM System camera. I have been using their OMD E-M1 and the OMD E-M1 MKll for YEARS now and I love them. Having a system that is so much lighter then most of the others is great (especially when you cant decide what lenses to bring so you bring them all LOL). I know the lowlight capabilities aren't the best, but they work. Before COVID, I was a Concert Photographer and used primarily the 12-40 2.8 PRO, lately tho, I have been doing alot of Macro stuff using the 60mm 2.8 Macro. I think you would love that lens and should give it a try also. My biggest kudos tho, are for your comments towards the end of the video. telling people to give micro 4/3 a try before bashing for it not being full frame was absolutely beautiful. BRAVO for that!!!! I hope you did do some video, I don't do alot of video, but would love to hear your thoughts about its capabilities.

[@LeighAndRaymond]

I did capture some video and was not surprised to find that it was great. The colors coming out of that camera are wonderful, which makes capturing video even more enjoyable. :)

[@wnose]

I use the early predeccessor: the E-m1 Mk 2, and a bevy of lenses: 17mm f1.8, 25mm f1.4, 12-32 zoom, 12-40 f2.8 zoom and the 40-150mm zoom. GREAT camera. Currently looking for a smaller body like the GX8, so I can be more unobstrusive. It blows my mind that my lenses can be mounted to even smaller bodies like the e-pm1.

[@acrummey85]

I have a large collection of m4/3 lenses and three of the 16mp OM-D cameras. I have had several different camera systems (including full frame Sony) and yet still reach back for this gear most often. I get sharp, detailed images and the image stabilization is second to none. Since mine are older models the AF is no match for my Sony but still adequate for the majority of my photography. Thanks for a thoughtful real-world review of this highly underrated system.

[@kentgastreich1055]

I have been using m4/3 for many years. The versatility of the system including but not limited to in camera focus stacking, live composite, ND, pro-capture, and the incredible IBIS is unmatched by any other system.

[@m.ruemmler1605]

So glad to see you review and enjoyed the OM. I love my Olympus E-M1ii and E-M1iii. Especially love the lenses. I have the trinity of Pro 7-14, 12-40, 40-150. As well as 60 macro, 1.4x and 2.0x teleconverters. I can fit all this gear in my 18L Mindshift backpack. Quality of the gear and images is phenomenal. The 300 in particular is the best lens I’ve ever used - sharpness, AF, contrast and color rendering is insanely good. I routinely impress several of my full frame buddies.

[@georgebowden6748]

Hi & hello from Oz, in the last 6 months I've changed my Canon system & "L" series lenses to the Om system because of the same back issues you stated. At my age (76) the weight difference with my serious back issues has been so important to me & I find that my camera now goes everywhere with me & I'm really enjoying my photography again. I've started with the 12-45mm F4 pro & the 40-150mm F4 pro lenses & have been very pleased with the results, I will now get the 100-400mm or the 300mm lens. The only difference that I have found is that I have to be more mindful to fill the frame because of the cropping restrictions, but this was more down to my photography style than the camera. I have a friend who is a pro photographer & he was quite amazed when I showed him pics from my Canon & the Olympus & he really struggled to see the difference. Anyhow, a great video & cheers from Oz.

[@LeighAndRaymond]

Thank you for sharing! I'm glad you're carrying your camera around more now. :)

[@KJ4YIG]

OM Systems is awesome. Have the Sony full frames, Sony APS-C,. Though after going shooting with the 200-600mm Sony Lens I learned that I needed a side kick system. Something lighter and easier to maneuver in case an opportunity came up to catch a shot (animals refuse to wait) so I bought the OM-1 mark 2 and boy I love it and now my wife has the om-1 also. We love it.

[@LesterBeasley]

I've never tried a m4/3 camera but now I'm intrigued. I may rent one for a few days to try it out. I wouldn't mind something lighter than my Canon 5DMkIII.

[@KalliatTValsaraj]

Thank you so much for this review. I have been an Olympus user for many years and I truly love it for its portability, simplicity and fantastic pictures that I can capture. 🙏🏽👏🏽

[@tomniblick7365]

Do I use an OM? No. But my wife does. Actually she shoots with an older Olympus that she loves and won’t trade for the latest OM. And I usually edit her files. Can I tell them apart from my SL2S files? Yes, but the difference is minimal. Her Olympus is amazing as are her photos. We’re both seniors and weight is an issue. Her pack is always half what mine is with equivalent lenses which makes my life easier.

[@MikePageKaltenberg]

I shot exclusively with Olympus/OM System cameras from 2018-2023 when I added a used Nikon Z7II to my bag. The OM-1 is so much more convenient and produces some of my favourite images. The Oly 12-100 is still one of my favourite lenses. The Nikon has become my go-to landscape camera though for day trips and the like. I'm headed out in August for a 4-day hike and then in September for an 11-day hike in the Alps. On both trips it will be the OM-1 coming with me.

[@pwx8460]

Glad you enjoyed your time with OM. Shooting professionally made switch to OM (Olympus at time) about 5 years ago as other brand was slow to embrace mirror- less. No looking back and have been very impressed with quality of the glass. Would recommend you try/add the 40-150 f2.8 lens as it's a real gem, wonderfully sharp and supports the teleconverters as does the 300. Probably would have helped with your elk images as you were likely tighter than you wished. And yes, the camera bodies are similar in size weight to other systems, but it's the lenses and total kit weight were you'll see a noticeable difference. Good luck in your decision process.

[@benejpocock]

I love the 40-150 f2.8 - from wildlife to portraits it's an incredible (and incredibly light for what it is) piece of glass.

[@bobdilg2838]

Great review and lovely photos. Although larger sensor cameras are better for certain applications (I’ve also used full frame and APS-C), the OM-1 is hard to beat for outdoors, hiking, inclement weather, etc. Also, its computational features distinguish it from almost all other cameras. I especially like the built in ND, in-camera focus stacking, pre-capture mode, and live capture, starry focus mode, etc.

[@kenanderson1124]

Great review, thanks. I ordered the OM 1 II a week ago. Looking forward to using it in conjunction with my Canon R6. I live in a very photogenic place that has landscape, seascape, wildlife and street photography opportunities. I look forward to running these systems side by side.

[@Martin-nu6ym]

I made a vow that whoever was the first to release a mirrorless designed macro lens with an angle of view of the 180 or 200mm, would get my money. Last year was when it happened. OM-1 mark I and the 90mm macro is a dream come true for me. Being able to take casual macro shots handheld with in-camera focus stacking (up to 15 brackets can be stacked in the camera) has made me not do much for post processing. My favorite zoom lens is the 40-150 f2.8. Upon having this system, I realized that I wish I would have started to use m43 a decade ago instead of the long and expensive route I took but maybe it was from my exposure to so much gear that taught me how much I really appreciate what m43 gives me now. For a small infrared kit, I carry the Panasonic G95 with STC drop-in filters and the Panasonic 12-32 pancake and M.Zuiko 9-18. The 40-150 f2.8 for those times I need the longer reach.

[@janekeehn3842]

For a few years, I’ve been using the OM-D E-M1 Mark 2 with the Lumix Leica 100-400 zoom lens for bird photography and an old Olympus PEN mini E-PM 1 with it’s kit lens (14-42) for landscapes. I also have an Olympus 45mm (1.8) prime lens for family portraits and low light, and a Lumix 12-50mm electrical zoom for video. It all fits in a very small backpack and all cameras and lenses are interchangeable. Photography is my main hobby but I have had to use my equipment for voluntarily making training videos at work. The M43 system has me covered for most situations. I won’t have to upgrade for years! Love the lightness.

[@paulsanders1373]

Great video and photos/videos too! Yesterday I bought my photographer wife a OM-1 Mark ii and couple of Pro lens. She also has issues carrying a Canon R 5 with the Canon Pro lens and needs to cut the weight down. In 2 days we will have our new camera delivery!

[@ricknicholson5894]

I entered the digital camera world from my former two SLR's in 2004. Back then I jumped on the "I gotta have a full frame sensor" bandwagon like many. It was easy, film was "full frame" and therefore to get that quality, full frame DSLR's was the answer. Fast forward a few DSLR's and I ended up with a Canon 5D mk 2 and finally my Canon 5K mk4. I also have had a few Canon cropped sensor cameras finalized with my Canon 7D mk2, a wonderful action camera. I got the 7D mk2 for its 1.6 crop sensor to use with my Sigma 150 - 600 Sport and throwing on the 1.4 TC, I ended up with a 1345 mm lens. I've loved my images from all my cameras including my two Fuji ones. Like many, over time, I also became impressed with phone camera images, great photos from very small sensors. I no longer have the full frame bug, I have given up my medium format lusting. I figure if I can get great photos from a phone camera sensor, anything larger is just a bonus. So today, I could enjoy an OM 4/3rd's sensor and know the camera is more than capable of delivering excellent results.

[@bothkindsofmusic2964]

The OM-1 Mk II with the 150-400mm F4.5 Pro lens is a fantastic combination for bird and wildlife photography. I often use it with the built in 1.25 TC and the 1.4 TC to get incredible focal length. With the ability to shoot at very slow shutter speeds handheld, I rarely take my 1.4TC off the camera. Please give it a try.

[@clausmannsperger4432]

Love your Video! I‘m an Olympus fanboy since 3 years after selling my Nikon Equipment - which was too heavy. Did the camino portuguese this may with my om-5. Hope to see more content from you. Regards from Germany❣️

[@randominterest8868]

Yes I use OM System gear along with other systems, but my OM kit is my primary, the EM1X is my camera of choice w/the 40-150 f2.8 and the 150-400 f4.5 w/built in TC, both are pro lenses and are always ready to go. While I have other lenses these two are alway mounted and ready. I would recommend giving these lenses a go, as for the camera body, the one they loaned you, the EM1X, and or any body in the pro lineup. As I am sure you know, camera bodies come and go, but great lenses are the true investments.

[@mamumonkan]

does it have night vision mode = EVF with red tint, to preserve night vision - such as my Panasonic S1 has ?

[@randominterest8868]

@@mamumonkan while I believe it may, I am not 100% sure about that. There are very specific manuals from Olympus that would most likely go into more detail as it amazingly comprehensive. Mostly I was just responding to the question about what lenses to try in the future.

[@johnregan4228]

I’d used Olympus many years ago, and was pleased. I’ve since used numerous other brands and, yes, I’m back to OM Systems. I’m thrilled with the results. The files are beautiful, and yes, the weight savings are great. The largest drawback I’m seeing is low light performance. It’s still, in my opinion, lagging behind others.

[@skfineshriber]

I’ve owned several LUMIX MFT cameras, Canon APS-C and FF cameras, and now a LUMIX S5. Some people who look down on MFT don’t seem to realize that MFT and APS-C are closer in size than APS-C and FF. And as you’ve described, the lenses are much smaller and lighter, yet the IQ is extremely good. The different aspect ratio also makes more efficient use of the image circle, further minimizing the size and weight of lenses. It’s a brilliant system. The S5 has better IQ at high ISO, but my MFT cameras perform as well as some APS-C cameras. If you check the image quality test scene on DPReview, you’ll see for stills, MFT gives up very little to most APS-C cameras. When you consider that the very best lenses for the two bigger formats are FF anyway, there is not much of a size and weight advantage to APS-C. I think that’s why Panasonic doesn’t bother with it. Smart company.

[@sacredbirdman]

I have and have had multiple camera systems (up to medium format).. after comparisons I've come to the conclusion that my OM-1 does 95-98% of what I want to do and does it well. It also handles beautifully. I sold a few systems and have pretty sizable selection of m43 lenses now... and I'm happy with them. Every lens is at least good and some are the best lenses I've ever had.

[@DetlevObst]

Appreciate your vivid & compelling video, Leigh! Your experience mixed with showcasing the camera used in so many different conditions (lighting, weather, handheld, tripod) and the resulting images and video clips (watching at 4K, sRGB) are so crystal clear and lifelike! Plus I've been comparing specs of various mirrorless cameras, but then specifications ≠ experience. I'll see about finding your vid about filming on the OM~

[@brianm9173]

As an ex Nikon shooter, I made the switch to m43 after a couple weeks hiking Mexico in 30+ C weather and carrying a full D700 kit. I've never looked back 👍

[@pluggednickels7321]

I moved to micro 4/3 about a year ago for the same reasons the size and weight mostly on the lens side anyway. I have never regretted it and my body has thanked me for it as well. I have found that those that criticize the m4/3 system are usually people that have never used them. I thought that the extra DOF would be an issue but in fact I have found that to actually be an advantage in many cases especially with birds in flight shots. To be able to use the same shutter speeds iso aperture etc etc with my 300 f4 as you would get with a huge full frame 600mm f4 and be able to get that extra DOF of an f8 is an advantage in many cases not a disadvantage. And the extra manuverability of that smaller 300mm f4 is sometimes being able to get the shot vs not getting it. Many will say ya but I can just stop down my 600mm f4 to get the extra DOF of f8 if I need it. Yes you could do that but you will lose the higher shutter speeds when you do that. I can get that extra DOF and retain the high shutter speeds as well. I have found some of the features on the om systems and Panasonic bodies that are just barely showing up on the 6k Sony canons and Nikons flagships that I get on a 2k body is worth the savings. High res handheld shooting, live composites, focus stacking in camera, in camera Timelapse with movies, build in ND filters pre-burst shooting. The list goes on and on. I have found the Olympus pro and Panasonic Leica lenses are some of the best lenses I have ever used from any manufacture and I have tried a lot of brands of my 40 years as a photographer. My Panasonic Leica 200mm 2.8 and Olympus 300 f4 are just phenomenal lenses that just never disappoint. I keep my full frame Sony with some portrait lenses around for when I want that better bokeh. But for everything else I am now grabbing my m4/3 gear when I go out shooting now. I still think the bigger sensors still have a slight advantage for overal image quality but that gap is being narrowed fast with the latest offering from Panasonic and OM systems cameras. I love my m4/3 systems and never going back to packing around heavy bulky gear when I can’t get the vast majority of shots with lighter smaller gear.

[@rreichar1]

I really enjoyed the video! Thanks for talking about out what the system can do instead of what it’s weak areas. I am a former M4/3s shooter who went FF Canon after the R5 and R6 were released. I primarily shoot birds with some travel and occasional event photography thrown in for good measure. After 3 years with Canon I went back to M4/3s after the OM-1 was released and haven’t looked back. My favorite lens for birding so far is the 300mm F4 Pro that you used here. I would be interested to see your review of the 150-400 Pro zoom. I had one ordered for nearly 2 years but never got one. Now they are easier to find but I have retired and $7500 for a lens is a lot for a hobbyist. I still might do it at some point though. There aren’t a ton of good reviews on that lens on KZbin.

[@LeighAndRaymond]

Many viewers have recommended that lens but I'm having trouble getting over the STUNNING quality of that 300mm prime and the teleconverter!

[@davepecoraro4422]

I too was a Nikon photographer ten years ago but because of back and weight issues I switched to the OM system and their pro lenses. I’ve never looked back. I love their telephoto and image stabilization built in. I’m a fellow Arizonan and moved full time from Colorado after shooting wildlife. Also share your interest in flight sim.

[@jamesrylandmiller4378]

OM System is amazing. Em5.2, EM1.3, OM1.2, 12-40 2.8, 40-150 4, 150-600 6.3, and numerous primes. You really need to play with the 150-600. It's a bit heavy but the image quality is amazing and you're getting a 1200mm FF equivalent.

[@splatbass]

I'm a long time Nikon FF shooter, but for the same reasons as you I bought an OM-1 and 100-400mm, plus various landscape lenses (Lumix 12-35, Laowa 6mm). I love it. I still have my Nikon stuff, but rarely use it.

[@FieldingSmith]

How’s that Laowa 6? It’s on my short list of next lens purchases.

[@splatbass]

@@FieldingSmith I really like it. Very low distortion for a lens that wide, and sharp.

[@anthony-qm3pn]

I have E-M1 with 45mm f/1.8 & 75mm f/1.8 for the past 10 years have made 16”x 20” canvas prints, you have it as cold as -35c no problem, Thinking about upgrading to OM-1 MK2 with 300mm f/4 is pro, recently got 60mm f/2.8 macro lens to add to my kit.

[@jpdeardenphotography]

I've got the om1. Absolutely love it. Hope you are well and back is getting back to normal.

[@ThomasSchwarzFotografie]

Thank you for sharing your experience with the OM-1 Mark II! I use Canon, but am also interested in other camera brands 😉👍

[@TheWillRogers]

I've got a EM1 (mark 1!) that I picked up as a "take when you don't want to risk damaging the Z50" and I now use it more than my Z50. The Z50, while being so much more pleasant to use, is relegated to portraits and low-light. The EM1 and the 12-60mm fit into my running vest pocket and has eaten rain storms and getting bashed against rock on mountains.

[@mjsworkshop]

Hi Leigh, It's nice to see you trying the OM-1 MkII. I've been using Olympus and now OM System gear for 10+ years. I've used them for studio work and I've had work published in magazines that was shot on this gear. It's very capable! I'd love to see what you think of some of the computational imaging built into the camera. Live ND, Hi-Res mode, etc. Cheers!

[@benejpocock]

Great observations. I recently got back into photography after too many years out and hired FF (Sony), APS-C (Fuji) and MFT (OM System) before deciding on what system to go with. In the end, I actually bought an X-H2 and an OM-1.2 to run alongside each other for a few months as it was cheaper to to that and sell them back to MPB than it was to pay the extended hire charges. In the end I stuck with the OM-1.2. I don't have back issues, but I do have two young kids in tow most of the time so can't only carry camera gear. The compact nature of the lenses just can't be overlooked. We've just come back from a safari park and I generally had the 40-150 f2.8 on the front all day (a lens you should try BTW - so sharp!). Take the tripod collar off and the body plus lens weigh in at a measly 1360g. Find me a FF system with an 80-300 reach that weighs that! The body fits in my hand much nicer than the X-H2, and whilst I thought Fuji may have hooked me with film simulations, after the initial novelty wore off, I found it wasn't enough to hold on to me. Besides, the 'normal' colours that come out of the OM are stunning anyway, and any effect you may want to add can easily be done in post. When it comes to image quality, there will be some trade offs here and then, but I'm no professional, just a keen amateur, and I'll take the massive weight saving and small form factor over any perceived or actual difference in image quality any day of the week. I think too many people assume that the size of your sensor is the only thing that governs image quality. A rubbish photo is a rubbish photo regardless of what you shoot it on!

[@ammadoux]

yes please show us more birds from that magical place. i love olympus/ lumix so much. played with nikon ff for birds and fujifilm for street shots all are great and love them. but m4/3 is were i feel home.

[@FierceSleepingDog]

Love my OM-1 and other Olympus/OM System gear.

[@johnehman8685]

Thank you! I’ve been using Olympus/ON System for nature photography for years, and it’s fabulous. I’d encourage you to try the 40-150mm f/2.8 Pro lens, which also takes the teleconverter you used.

[@pafflechien5136]

A little hello from France. I do use M4/3 and Olympus / OM System for a couple of years now and I don't want to change, the compactness, the robust construction, all the OM system goodies like high res. mod, Live composing, the great sensor stabilisation, the lovely color science ... so many things that I do love about my both gears. I do use a OM EM 5 mk II and a OM EM 1 mk III with the zuiko 12-40mm f2.8 , zuiko 8-25mm f4, zuiko 40-150 f4-5.6, the Lumix 100-400mm or the recent zuiko 100-400mm f5-6.7. When i'm shooting some animals pictures I do use DXO pure raw to clean the raw files. Most part of the time I do shot raw + jpeg when I do some landscape pictures, the color are just too good :D. I'm interested about to replace my OM EM 1 mkIII for a second hand OM - 1 to have the new autofocus with AI , the new viewfinder with higher resolution and OLED technology but for now I can't say that i'm unhappy with my gear. Thanks for your video !

[@prose4ever]

I own a Nikon Z5 (Full Frame), but I have always picked up one of my Olympus/OM System cameras because of the smaller package. My E-M5ii has been with me all across New Zealand and a wide range of conditions.

[@Jgatti41]

First time watcher. Really enjoyed seeing someone new use an OM camera. I have the OM-1 mark I and a sony a7IV. 9 out of 10 times when I head out to shoot I find myself grabbing the OM-1. I have the 40-150 2.8 pro with the MC-1.4 teleconverter along with the 12-40 2.8 pro. But I have used and owned man more over the years. I started my digital days with an Olympus E-500 and then worked my up the system. Over the years I never questioned the image quality I was getting. I have owned and used the 7-14 2.8, the 60mm 2.8 macro, the 12mm 2.0the 300 f4 and all of their pro 1.2 lenses. I had an amazing kit built and the FF bug bit me. I stayed with Olympus for a long time because ethe weather sealing. Sadly it is tougher than I am these days lol While on vacation this year I rented the Sony 200-600mm for an air show. I was so impressed with the images I got. Until I saw the ones I shot a few years back with my Olympus gear. The differences were subtle and I honestly found myself liking the OM shots more. I am now on the fence whether to keep both systems or just part with my Sony and go all back in with my OM. It is such a fun camera. The computational features are a blast. I like to light paint and do creative portraits with steel wool. Not something I would do with my sony because the OM makes it so easy. Anyway. You have a new subscriber in me. Look forward to more of your videos.

[@LeighAndRaymond]

Thanks for watching and for sharing your experience!

[@irutgers]

Thank you for your detailed review ❤. Understanding the pluses, would like to hear more about the challenges shooting with a 4/3 sensor

[@LeighAndRaymond]

There really aren't "challenges" to shooting with a four thirds sensor. So much depends on the camera and lens you're using. However, you can see me chat more about it in my free Basics of Photography class, in the video labeled Cameras. You can find it here: kzbin.info/aero/PLyrKONqDZzIwB4C3TEfOavC93ccbbBZFG :)

[@irutgers]

@@LeighAndRaymond it looks like your video, Cameras is not on the free list 😞

[@timothykieper]

Perhaps you are not familar with camera reviews on KZbin?

[@petermcginty3636]

Thank you for your video Leigh, beautiful images.🎉🎉🎉. An OM-5 was my first camera, which I use for general photography. I am currently considering upgrading to an OM-1 Mki, as the used prices are very good at present. The f1.2 lenses are very beautiful, especially the f1.2 45mm for portraits.

[@bmwohl]

This was a beautiful youtube video, Leigh. Thanks for stretching my mind with your skills and the OM micro 4/3rds sensor. For backpacking, I've been taking a Sony RX100 VI, and for everything else pretty much I use the Nikon Z7 (mark 1). This summer, my light weight solution has been the compact Nikkor Z 50mm f/2.8 macro lens and I've got no complaints. Oh my gosh, I could watch your time lapse sequence of the clouds over and over and over. Thanks again for the inspiration.

[@LeighAndRaymond]

Thank you for watching! :)

[@Pine4205]

I would like you to work with the computational settings and then do a review. the 150-600 is a cool lens as well as the 60&90mm macro.

[@agentlevanto2964]

Leigh - great to see the Grad Canyon through your lens. After much consideration, I purchase the OM1 ii and two lenses (12-40 2.8 pro and 40-150 4) as my “system” camera. I figured I was getting fantastic top of the line no compromises glass and a great camera body too, all at a fraction of the $$ it would cost me to access same in full frame land. I like how the camera feels, the images are simply beautiful, and I don’t feel weighed down knowing I’m carrying around so much money in a back pack! I can carry the camera and one additional lens in a sling bag. Don’t feel I’m missing out on anything ….

[@MiamiVPG]

Great video! I have always been interested in the OM system, but am too invested in Nikon to switch at this time. Thanks

[@rsworden09]

For portability and flexibility, I like the 75-300 lens. Equivalent to a 600mm but very easy to carry on hikes.

[@Mr_Weak_Photographer]

I had a Sony A7RIII, and I moved to an OM1 with several prime lenses. I changed to my Nikon Z9 with gold lenses like the 800 6.3. It's just a matter of having the necessary physical condition. I travel miles and miles through the mountains without any problem. I go mountaineering and climbing... and my Z9 accompanies me everywhere. Its 45 megapixels are incredible compared to the OM1. Nobody is going to sell me the same bike with the OM if your physical capacity doesn't allow you to do anything else.

[@victorfeinstein1815]

I am using several camera systems including the Phase One 150MP the real MF,Fujifilm GFX,Sony FF and the OM-1 Mark İİ with 8-25,40-150 f2.8,150-400 f4,5,TC1.4 and TC 2.0.Each system has cons and pros, but when I want to pack for a long hike I always prefer the OM System.

[@mikecastles]

Have used everything from a Kodak Instamatic to 8x10 and 7x11 film cameras, from M4/3 to full frame. While I prefer large format film and full frame sensors would say you have to use what works for you. Like you, I have serious back issues and struggled this past April on a trip to Scotland with the weight of the gear I carried. Made some compromises and did manage to get the images I wanted. Your video is the perfect example of making those compromises.

[@Adventurecory]

I took my new to me Olympus em1iii to Antelope canyon. I took some pics at a quarter of a second with the image stabilization being what it is. I took some hand held Hi res and the normal 20 megapixel. I was blown away by the Hi-Res pics until I realized that I was actually looking at the 20 megapixel pics 🤣. But yes the hi res does look more detailed if you zoom in. This was all without a tripod mind you because Antelope Canyon doesn’t allow them.

[@markbrickley]

I use an om-1ii together with a range of full sensor gear. The m43 files are not as flexible in terms of colour gradation but it’s close and many times I use the Olympus gear over the ff because of the weight savings plus the camera is very well set up. As always it’s horses for courses but m43 gives up much less than many people assume to ff. for macro use the m43 is much better than ff imho because of the greater dof and really good in camera stacking on the OM1. I’d love to see you review more om gear. Mark

[@RobertOwen-p2e]

Like you, I have back issues (and age issues :-). I only received the Mk 2 a few days ago and am looking forward to using the 14 bit 50Mb mode (I doubt that I will use the 80Mb as I don’t carry a tripod for anything, even birds using the 150-400TC). The Mk 1 was very reliable for 50Mb handheld but didn’t do 14 bit (I think). I was disappointed that I couldn’t get focus stacking to work on macro handheld but I got it to work on the Mk2 first time. Despite having collected many lenses over the years, my most used are the Big White for birding and the 12-100 for travelling. Enjoyed your vid, thanks.

[@ridealongwithrandy]

Great video, I have been watching you thru time since your beginning. $/3s is amazing, I have bben 4/3s since my first E500 in 2005 I think. I also went down the Nikon D4s, D750, and the amazing D500, but I always gravitated back to my extensive olymppus setup. I finally sold all my film cams and other digi cams, and settled on the Olympus setup as I just know how to process the files. On my flickr feed with the same handle as YT, one can see the photos I create with Olympus cameras. I shoot micro, macro, birds, wildlife, landscapes, and my new fun thing to do is astro with the EM1 mkiii with starry sky autofocus which is perfect every time, coupled with the amazing 300 f4, I have made some neat astro shots. Cheers from Alpine, CA

[@RichardBO9]

Thanks for the video. I am with you on weight. I owned a OM-1 ii for the first 6months of this year. I really liked the camera and the lens. The Olympus 40-150 f/2.8 is the best zoom around. I ultimately traded that kit for a R5 and two f/4 lens, because I thought I could capture better image detail. The weigh is about the same. I am not sure the images are all that much better out of the R5. The jury is still out. The color out of the OM is very painterly and beautiful. I may switch back.

[@corneferreira7691]

Love my OM1 and came from FF and APS c in the past. M4/3 puts the fun back into photography I dont to video why I use OM sold my Panasonic its a photosentric as the om, just like the om is not as good in video. I have tried FF and APSC and every time its full circle back to 4/3 the compromise is not outweighed by the convenience and fun.

[@TraekerFan]

Nice video, beautiful pictures! I switched from Nikon full-frame to Olympus/OM System. There are fantastic lenses available for MFT. I bet you would love the 150-400mm/4.5 for wildlife photography 😊

[@danatkinson1517]

I recently switched to an OM-1(From Canon full frame DSLRs) primarily for my macro work and needed a lighter more compact system. I am constantly surprised by the images I am getting. I have also become addicted to bird photography since having the equivalent of an 800mm lens I can handhold all day has made it so much easier. Sure the M4/3 system has some drawbacks, but it's dynamic range and high ISO performance have honestly surprised me.

[@Abc1987]

Thanks! Loved the video Also… The 4/3 aspect ratio looks nice, sort of a nice change from the usual

[@carollemarchand1299]

You should also try the Panasonic Lumix G9 II. It works with Om lenses and it is really good for video.

[@zbeat2045]

Like your video! I suggest you try out the M.Zuiko 12-100mm f/4 lens. It's tack sharp, has OIS that sync's with the camera's IBS, and has the most useful focal range (24-200mm FF equiv) of any lens I own. If I had to pick only 1 lens to own this would be the one.

[@steveboys5369]

Hi Leigh, very interesting .... and yes, more similar reviews please.

[@FieldingSmith]

I started with m43 as a travel system years ago, now I have shot discs in lower back, with 1 in the upper on its way down as well… I don’t think I could carry a FF kit that could match what m43 gives me. And having access to both Pany/Leica and Oly glass is very nice (I mainly use the PL 8-18/12-60/50-200 f2.8-4 trio +1.4tc; and then the Oly f1.2 primes when doing portraits/events), would love to give that 300/4 a try… that and the 150-400/f4.5.

[@michaeldensley6175]

Enjoy your videos and perspectives. I’ve owned 5 Olympus cameras starting from the EM10 through the EM1 Mk III. I’ve really enjoyed them all my lightweight kit is an EM10.2 with the 14-42 R kit lens - which punches above weight. My main kit however consists of the EM1.3 and 3 great lenses: Olympus 8-25/4, Olympus 12-100/4, and a tiny Panasonic 42.5/1.7. I’ve also previously owned the Panasonic Leica 12-60/2.8-4 and the Panasonic Leica 8-18/2.8-4 (albeit briefly). If you are planning on reviewing more Micro Four Thirds lenses, those 4 zooms would ones I would highly recommend. I’m a landscape shooter mostly, but have done family weddings on occasion. I’ve had great success with these lenses. If I could make one other suggestion, since you have the OM1.2 on loan, may I suggest you try out the Live GND and well as the 25MP and 50MP Hand Held High Res Modes - I think you’ll enjoy the results in many of your landscape shots.

[@LeighAndRaymond]

Thanks for the lens suggestions!

[@cnocbui]

My recommendation for something to try would be the 150-400mm f4.5 - it's a work of art.

[@anthony-qm3pn]

Heard a lot of good things about Olympus Pro 8-25mm f/4 also recommended OM systems Pro 90mm f/3.5 is macro.

[@ridealongwithrandy]

P.S. Funny tht you mention the gawkers who just stop in the middle of the road ... A few years back I had been hunting the hard to find Desert Big Horn Sheep in the Anza Borrego desert here in southern California, when all of a sudden when deciding to call it a day, there was a herd of sheep meandering in the desert not far from the road. I got out and made some amzing photos of them with my 40-150 f2.8 and the amazing EM1X. All of a sudden a car stopped behind my car and a girl got out and mentioned to her friend, that she was going to get close to make a selfie. I told her that the males would head butt her into Nevada and that would be a bad dicision. There were 4 big males with all thier girlfriends and I'm sure they would not have liked a selfie from some careless human ... heehee.

[@Kunal0915]

Great video again Leigh!! Please could you try the OM-5 and tbe 12-45.

[@WhoIsSerafin]

I’m using the OM5 and the EM5 for portrait photography and I’m waiting for the OM5 2 since I don’t need seven thousand frames a second on the OM1.

[@Jwitherow1964]

I love mine, you should shoot with the 150-400 4.5 tc it’s amazing . This is my first time watching your channel this was fun to watch.

[@LeighAndRaymond]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@randolphcroft4212]

Love your channel, and I hope you're managing. I've got a lot of osteoarthritis in my knees so I'm kind of a cripple these days - and I seriously want to get my OM stuff back from a friend I gave it all to - lol. I ended up moving from the old 'OM' - PEN - to Sony and Leica and I love them, but I sometimes hate hauling them around - even the Sony a1 (lenses!!) so I'm thinking of a smaller body. Here's my issue. I print out 3m x 4m but 90% of my actual work is internet, websites, etc. So, really, I think two very different systems for different outputs makes sense.

[@kbruff2010]

I respect this post! thank you!

[@zayacz123]

I use the Original OM1. For wildlife I have the 100-400 which works with teleconverters. It’s close in size to the 300. For macro I have the 90mm. It gives a 2X magnification (4 with the 2X teleconverter). It also has the focus clutch. Just pull the front ring back and you’re in manual focus. It’s also impressive using back button continuous focus hand held. I’ve gotten great snowflake pictures using that method. For low light photography and portraits the 1.8, 75mm is amazing. My wife uses a Panasonic G9 2 MFT. The 100-400 for that system could almost be described as tiny. Panasonic makes great lenses. Also, the G92 is a great companion for anyone who uses their latest full frames which have identical bodies and menus. For some insight as to the usefulness of MFT there is a KZbin channel by David Thorpe (titled David Thorpe). He went to MFT because it was easier to take on a bicycle. Sadly he’s deceased, but his channel is still up. As you might have guessed, I love the system. 😀

[@LeighAndRaymond]

I didn't mention it in this video, but the ease of switching from autofocus to manual focus with the ring on the lens is AMAZING. I used it several times to quickly switch and get the shot.

[@barryelliott4176]

I have recently purchased the OM-5 have you used this ? It would be grate if you were able to do a review to assist with getting to grips with this system

[@wnose]

6:57 Try the focus stack feature next time, it's made for situations like that.

[@briancarlisle2534]

I am racking my brain here. I don’t shoot video and I feel I just bought the z6iii wasting my money and should have kept my and maybe have kept my OM-1 with the 40-150, 12-40. I now have the NIKKOR 180-600, 24-120, and the 105. I just felt I was missing something with my Micro4/3. All of my pictures seemed soft when comparing to FF pictures. I guess I pixel peeped too much (which I guess was a habit I picked up from watching too many KZbin videos. But really, shouldn’t the m4/3’s pictures be just as sharp and crisp as FF? I do shoot wildlife, I shoot landscape, and I do shoot macro. so I’m your honest opinion, should I trade my z6iii back to the OM-1? Or just keep the Z6iii and get used to it? I’m no professional, but I do love to print and I do love to post my pictures. Help me make up my mind

[@aiofilms]

EM-1 III & PAN F body, one each, GX8 & GX9 body, one each with multiple Zuiko and Lumix lenses. Never discontent, let alone regret.

[@dukeofurl999]

This is why I watch pro shooter's reviews. You are there, gear in hand, photos to show. How about one about Fuji H2S. A step up in sensor size and pixel count, not too much heavier...

[@LeighAndRaymond]

I loved the X-H1 when I used it years ago. I'm sure the update is amazing. I am currently working with the GFX100S II!

[@dukeofurl999]

@@LeighAndRaymond Now if I only had $7800 for one OR would the $$ be better spent on a X2D 100C?

[@jonbarnard7186]

Good to give those Elk some room. I read somewhere that more people are killed in Canada by Elk attacks than by bear attacks. I wouldn't be surprised if that were true. I know a guy who had a run-in with an elk, and not only can they be aggressive, they can be very persistant when they decide to attack. Their behaviour can be almost predatory. I often see tourists in the federal parks in Canada getting out of their cars by the side of the highway and getting way too close to these animals. They can be very dangerous at certain times of the year. Glad you liked the OM1; it's a great camera that doesn't get its due by gear junkies.

[@j16m02]

I hate to play devils advocate here Leigh, because I get where you are coming from. I too suffer from a bad back (and excessive miles on the odometer) and my range limit is about a mile on a good day. I started a lot of years ago with an Olympus film SLR and then onto Olympus digital. I eventually moved to Sony and have been a Sony shooter since it was Minolta. I've always kept some Olympus gear though. Currently an OM-1 for my birding. As my back has deteriorated I've consider moving back to Olympus entirely. Olympus is smaller and lighter, right? Well, I've found it's not so simple. I've been the comparing an Olympus every day and travel kit to my A7CR with similar lens setup. A few examples. The Oly with the 12-40/2.8 pro is essentially the same size and weight as the Sony with the Sigma 28-70/2.8 contemporary and much bigger than the Sony with the Sigma 18-50mm/2.8. That's a crop lens but even in crop mode has more mega pixels than the Oly. The Sony with the Sony 16-35mm PZ F4 is smaller and lighter than the Oly with the 7-14/2.8 or the Lumix 8-18 f2.8-4.0. Depending on how you feel about equivalence, that's in the Sony's favor as well. For travel, compare the Oly 12-100/f4 pro to the Tamron 28-200 .2.8-5.6. The Sony combo is smaller and lighter than the Oly and in crop mode, (22mp I believe) gives you a focal range of 300mm. The only places I can where Oly surpasses the Sony, are in some of the special features, (live ND or live composite, for example) and size and weight (not price) of long glass. I've been through this comparison myself, many times and keep thinking, this can't be right, but it is.. I've considered the OM5 and E-M10 to go lighter, , but those cameras seem to have cheap construction and terrible ergonomics. Just food for thought.

[@EdwardBartel]

Your set up was pretty solid, but I think you might want to invest in their version of "holy trinity" telezooms if you decide to convert to OM Systems for your daily drivers. The 7-14, 12-40 & 40-150mm f.28 Pro lenses are all wonderful and that will give you a 14-300mm focal range in just 3 reasonably lightweight, fully weather-sealed lenses. I love the 1.2 primes, but they are probably not a high priority for the style of shooting you do. Lastly, I cannot speak highly enough of the 8mm f1.8 Fisheye lens! It is great for those wide landscape shots (de-fished, of course) but it is a-mazing for starry sky photography. If you want to shoot the Milky Way or fun star trails, this is the must-have lens for you! Great video - well structured and informative, btw.

[@LeighAndRaymond]

Thanks for the tip on the 8mm!

[@EdwardBartel]

@@LeighAndRaymond it's my go-to lens whenever I find myself in a rut.

[@iSirTaki]

I am an amateur and have the OM1 mk1 & 8-25mm f4 / 12-45mm f4 / 40-150mm f4 / 75mm f1.8 / 20mm f1.4 / 12mm f2 / 9mm f1.7 You should try the OM System 150-400mm F4.5 TC1.25x IS PRO white telephoto lens. OM Systems could loan you one, its expensive. This is the best you can get for wildlife! I will never switch gear again.

[@everythingfelixstowevideo328]

It’s a great camera. Fun to use. But to be honest, very noisy as such a small sensor! Pretty much every image seems to have grain and lack real detail as the larger sensor cameras. I still go to my Nikon z8 for any paid or specific type photo gigs.

[@MrChip1217]

I would love to see you do some HDR work in the canyons

[@mamumonkan]

does it have night vision mode = EVF with red tint, to preserve night vision - such as my Panasonic S1 has ?

[@richball3260]

Leigh I'm a long time Olympus user with more lenses than are rational for an enthusiast. I have the original OM1 and the pen F. I have two questions: 1) Did you use the graduated ND function? 2) There are both a hand held high resolution and tripod hi resolution modes that increase the file size considerably.

[@LeighAndRaymond]

I did not use either of those features but they are definitely valuable!