OM System 90mm F3.5 Macro Has 4X Magnification! ROBINSPEAKS 012

[@automaticimprovements6957]

Robin, imagine all the reviews, lens reviews and camera reviews you could do if you switched to Sony. Believe me you will get huge in the Sony community.

[@robinwong]

You know that making KZbin video is not the main job right? And I don't make camera decisions based on who views my videos or whether it will be popular. I make videos because I want to, and I talk about things that I want to talk about. I buy cameras and lenses that I need for my photography business or personal projects. So ask me to switch just to grow the channel is just absurd. I'm not that kind of KZbinr, you must have mistaken me for someone I'm not.

[@tomfreda7107]

@@robinwong Amen! If only more KZbinrs were that way! 🙂

[@nightspore4850]

@@robinwong Great response. You deserve the respect your viewers have for you.

[@stefansi2554]

Following your line of thought imagine all mr. Wong could do if he had discovered and patented teleportation. The stupid sensor size and brands war will be the last thing on his mind.

[@besperus4475]

I basically use two lenses. The 12 to 45 pro and a 40 to 150. As a retired professional I chose Olympus (now OMDS) because of my experience in the film days (OM 1n, OM 2 and OM 4t). Using medium format Mamiya cameras back then, was a compromise for Hasselblad that worked well. Micro 4/3 isn’t a compromise as much as it is a technological step forward. Congratulations on your move forward in a new direction. You are doing a great job.

[@tizio54]

The 12-45 and 40-150 F4 is a great combination for compactness and portability. Adding the 9mm F 1.7 and perhaps the 45mm F 1.8 would make it perfectly all-rond (adding (1) ultra-wide (2) portrait and (3) low-light capability) without adding much bulk or cost.

[@gregm6894]

Since this new lens is a macro lens, I suspect that the choice of an f/3.5 maximum aperture is probably a very wise choice. It will allow a lower price, size, and weight than a wider aperture lens. In terms of macro shooting, that maximum aperture is a non-issue vs f/2.8 or larger. In terms of using this lens as a 'portrait' lens, it will still be a very capable lens. I'm retired now, but when I was working and shooting a lot of Executive head and shoulder portraits my go-to lens was the wonderful Panasonic 35-100mm f/2.8, generally shot at near 90mm and always at f/4 in order to get the subject's full face in focus, yet blurring the background very well. So I would not hesitate to use this new macro for that kind of shooting.

[@robinwong]

I'd argue that having wider aperture will have more advantages - better in low light and shallower depth of field, if needed for creative reasons. Yes, it will make the lens bigger, and maybe more expensive, but look at 75mm F1.8, they can do that. I am not asking for F1.8 of course, if we get F2.5, or F2.8, it would still be better than F3.5. I don't think that is too much to ask for.

[@besperus4475]

Cape up the great work!

[@JimiCanRead]

Nice of you to shout out micro four nerds, I love that channel!

[@robinwong]

Emily is just so awesome!

[@Tu-Liki]

Thanks Robin, NOW, Finally the wait is over... THIS, is something, I cannot wait to get my hands all over! Thank you Robin and thank you Olympus (I will continue to call them Olympus and not going to use OM Systems, well at least some time)!

[@ScottAtwood]

As someone who is a photographer purely as a hobbyist, I don’t need to justify my lens purchases based on how much money I might make from them. I love macro and there’s currently enough money in my hobby budget, so the upcoming 90mm macro is at the top of my list for my next lens purchase, the first lens I’ll have purchased in a couple of years. I truly love my 60mm macro, but I would love having extra working distance when shooting skittish bugs, and that extra 2x magnification is amazing.

[@robinwong]

Yeah the 4x magnification is something truly amazing, and I look forward to seeing that lens in person.

[@graywz]

Hey Robin - thanks sooo much for all your videos. Please don't worry about the "gear-heads" looking for confirmation of their choices. Your videos are appeciated more than you know. Thanks!!

[@robinwong]

Thanks, appreciate the show of support

[@WiziWes]

Robin speaks, just need to listen up world! Great video.

[@robinwong]

Thanks!

[@tom5216]

Hi Robin. Don’t get too worked up about idiots giving you a hard time on line. I have always found your videos informative and honest. I have shot Olympus cameras for over 40 years. I still have OM1 and OM2N film cameras. Olympus let me down badly when they stopped making OM film bodies as they were run over by Canon and others in terms of autofocus. Other manufacturers left them behind. They always have been dedicated to making small, compact systems. I think they are purists at heart but they are capable of pulling the plug if their business model fails. This has now happened with M4/3 which I am heavily invested in in terms of glass, several thousand pounds worth. I’m keeping the faith and have just bought an EM1X and 2 f1.2 lenses. The 6 M4/3 camera bodies I now have will probably see me out and the image quality is sufficient for pro requirements, especially when printed. 20Mp is enough. I hope the new owners make a success of the business. So far it looks promising. The new 150 - 400 f4.5 looks like a fantastic lens which may confirm M4/3 as the place to be for sports and wildlife photography. For me it’s too expensive and I can’t buy it yet anyway as no-one has them in stock but when the pro’s start using your equipment seriously you’re on the right track and that is good for all of us. A 40Mp sensor with great iso and DR must be possible. Maybe in the future.

[@yukonchris]

It's exciting to see a new macro for m43rds. I don't use macro enough to justify a huge price which is why I am still using the Zuiko Digital 35mm f/3.5 which I retained when I moved from four-thirds to Micro Four-Thirds many years ago. Mounted to my E-M1 with the MMF-3 adapter, it is an OK solution. Unfortunately, it's slow, noisy, and offers much less magnification than this newly promised 90mm. On the plus side, it's very small, very light, and despite it's tiny glass elements, it can actually produce great images in normal (non-macro) shooting situations. All that said, I also agree with your thoughts on maximum f-stop. Having a lens that is more versatile potentially means carrying less lenses, and that's a good thing. Now, as for the 9mm Panasonic, that sounds really interesting! To date, I only own Olympus branded lenses for my E-M1, with the exception of the Sigma 56mm f/1.4, and it has proven to be an exceptional light lens with some lovely qualities. I have a copy of the Olympus 7-14mm f/2.8 Pro, and as good as it is, the edge distortion and heavy weight of the lens makes it my least favourite Olympus lens. When I am about to head out on a long hike, I often leave the 7-14 behind simply because it is bulky for an m43rds lens, and has limited use. I've also found that it is very prone to producing ugly flares when there are really bright points of light either in, or just outside the frame. I imagine that this is in large part due to that huge dome shaped front element. It's a beautiful optic to look at, but the results are only exceptional if you respect its limitations. That said, a 9mm f/1.7 sounds like a great option. I've actually been hoping that Nisi develops its 9mm f/2.8 for m43rds, but a faster Panasonic option would, potentially, be even better. That said, if stocks are low, or non-existent, it leads one to wonder if there aren't some hidden problems, or issues with the lens. I suppose time will tell. Hey Robin, you are a seriously talented photographer. I don't think you should feel bad about making comparisons. The truth is the truth. Personally, I love my Olympus gear, but I am not afraid to speak the truth when a lens like the 7-14 doesn't feel like the best product. There is always room for improvement. Take the 100-400mm f/5.0-6.3 for example. I really like that lens, but would it be better if OMDS had implemented Sync IS, or pushed it a bit to f/5.0 across the focal range? Yes, of course. If our community could embrace criticism a little bit more, then that might also result in OMDS/Panasonic/Others taking note, and modifying their product line-up or even their pricing structure. Anyway, for now, I respect your decision, and would like to thank you for another excellent and informative video. Cheers.

[@robinwong]

Thanks for the show of support Christopher, I really appreciate that. Unfortunately, I just don't have thick enough skin to deal with hundreds of hateful and angry comments whenever I do a comparison. It is just not worth my time and energy to deal with them. At the end of the day I just want to shoot and enjoy my shutter therapy.

[@Impostertot]

Robin, I was in the same position regarding ordering the Panasonic 9 mm 1.7, kept waiting for months since May, 2022. I refused to pre-order as you but I had it on a wish list from B&H Photo in NY. They notified me as soon as it was in stock and I had it less than a week later. It is as the early reviewers have stated, an excellent all round wide angle prime lens! I have it as my “museum lens” great for interior close up shots where there is low light and no flash photography permitted. I hope that you get the opportunity to purchase it. It is in stock at B&H in NY if you would like to order from there.

[@robinwong]

I am not so keen on buying lenses outside of Malaysia, as the warranty is limited to where you get the lens from. And the shipping cost that far away can be very scary.

[@terrynoon8467]

Thanks for another great video Robin. Ignore the critics who cannot accept that other brands can produce good/better products - just feel sad for them that they have lost their perspective and rationality. I like Olympus but that has not stopped me dipping my toe into Sony full frame (alpha 7) which has its own quality/cost/weight trade offs. As an amateur my main constraint is cost not misplaced brand loyalty. Keep up the good work.

[@MrReadboy]

Well said, ditch tribalism and just get the best tool for the job in hand.

[@joemyers5302]

Ive heard the 90mm being f3.5 is to keep weight down, which i think is a big advantage for insect photography, and the main reason i use the M43 system anyway. Another feature i heard about with it is it will work with teleconverters, so you can get a massive 8x zoom with the MC20. Using the built in stacking feature could lead to some stunning photos in an easier way than was previously possible ie with the MPE 65 and a focus rail.

[@HokKan]

Wow I haven't seen your uploads pop up on my feed in almost a whole year lol. When I saw this one I was shocked! Glad to see you're back!

[@eswheaton]

Thanks! I enjoy your videos very much.

[@robinwong]

Thanks so so much! Appreciate that a lot.

[@stevocem]

I enjoyed the episode while cooking 😀. Thank you for the great and informative entertainment!

[@robinwong]

Oh dear hopefully you did not fall asleep during cooking! Kidding, and thanks!

[@stevocem]

@@robinwong The opposite! It kept me awake! 😀

[@TheNarrowbandChannel]

Love these Robin. I too long for a portrait lens in the 100mm range. Something like a f1.4 of even an f1.8 would be awesome for tight and shallow df shots. I am sorta glad though this lens will be a purpose build macro. It is something we have lacked in the system since the OM film days.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Ben! I can live with a 100mm F2, or F2.5!

[@thaweepworadech]

I am so exciting about this news. 😍

[@tommundy4709]

Hi Robin. Good discussion here, thanks. I completely agree, Olympus are to my eyes a leader in the bug macro world, the 60mm f2.8 being one of the absolute best lenses available. The scale of m43 really lending itself to macro with the sensor crop etc. And compact sizing (another reason we perhaps see f3.5 here, size- as you mention). For myself being a hobbyist photographer. I shoot nearly only telephoto wildlife and macro. This lens is very exciting for myself, and the f3.5 for is not an issue, I nearly always shoot macro around f11 to achieve a DOF that's remotely useable. Perhaps I should be stacking, but I am not a fan/I drink too much coffee. I'd argue for portrait or similar, at the expense of being a zoom not a prime then perhaps the 40-150 f2.8 and the 60mm f2.8 is a great combo to cover all bases. Perhaps on the second hand market this pair of lenses won't be so far from the price of the new pro lens, at the expense of not getting a 2:1 macro lens. Essentially I completely agree, this 90mm macro lens is aimed firmly at macro shooters, and not at being such a versatile lens as the 60mm.

[@charlesbell3629]

Hi Robin. I gave a miss on the 8-25f4 but bought the 9mm f1.7 sooo impressed with it fast. Sharp and a gem for street photography due to its size. I have also ordered the 90 mm macro can’t wait

[@pauljohnson6368]

Hi Robin, just checked the main dealers here in the UK for the Panasonic 9mm f1.7. None have stock, one dealer gives the 28th October as an approximate date for availability. Priced at £449.00. The other main dealers are still taking pre orders. Keep up the good work. Best channel on KZbin by far.

[@robinwong]

At least there is a date, and the dealers are taking pre-orders. There are options to get the lens. Instead of just saying "oh sorry, sold out"

[@pauljohnson6368]

@@robinwong If they do become available on 28th and if you wanted one let me know and I will gladly buy it on your behalf and ship it to you.

[@robinwong]

@@pauljohnson6368 I'd rather buy one locally and enjoy the full warranty benefits.

[@ethanbeckler6977]

I’m thinking this is going to be THE lens that will give the Canon MPE-65 a run for its money… We know this new lens is going to be bigger than the 60, which is a great lens - I’m sure you’ve seen what I’ve done with this lens, right Robin? If this lens will work WITH the 2x teleconverter, that would be even better as it would get us a true 4x magnification which is 8:1 full frame equivalent. The fact this lens will allow focus bracketing and also stacking will provide those macro users with the lens we have been looking for. This is not the lens that the once in a while macro shooter is going to want unless they’ve got money to throw around - but this is the lens that will bring macro shooters TO OM Systems from many other companies. That’s what I have been told by friends who are macro shooters with other brands - Yeah, it’s not going to be a great portrait lens, it neither is the MPE-65 by Canon, and that’s an epic lens. This is a lens you are going to see on Panasonic and Olympus cameras for a long time….

[@robinwong]

I don't think adding a teleconverter will be a wise move. The teleconverter only magnifies the center region of the lens, for longer telephoto lens that makes sense since you sacrifice a bit of fine details resolving power for reach. But that is not great for macro, where we need every single bit of the fine details!

[@MrRoddy508]

By far my favorite lens thus far for M4/3 systems and for my GH6 is the new 9mm due to how versatile it is. The small form factor, how extremely light weight it is, the f1.7 and the macro abilities makes it the perfect vlogging and run and gun lens I have used. It is certainly a must buy IMO. Definitely selling my 12-35 ii F2.8 and just stick with this lens as my all-arounder. The GH6 and the Panasonic 9mm really works well when paired with my Sony FF cameras that I use for longer focal lengths.

[@Acomyztly]

Saludos from Mexico. Ironically I can’t buy the 8-25mm Olympus f4 in my country, even searching in internet sellers ; but the 9mm was relatively easy, it was send to me from de USA in two weeks, and it was worth the wait!

[@Sabundy]

Your videos are always very enjoyable.

[@robinwong]

Thanks!

[@michaelgabes7574]

Hi Robin, I'm 100% with you, the new 90mm f3.5 is also for me a bit disappointing, for the same arguments you mentioned. As a non professional Shooter I don't see the big advantage against the 60mm f2.8. Grab a raynon 250 lens and the magnification is just fine. And it is small and lightweight.

[@numbersix8919]

Thanks for the tip Robin. I have a friend who shoots spiders and other tiny creatures on Olympus, and he will be delighted about the new macro lens. It's just what he needs. Also I'll be getting a P-3 very soon thanks to your comparison with the P-2's AF. (I also read that P-3 has one of the highest DR of digital cameras.)

[@robinwong]

E-P3 was very interesting during the launch. It boldly claims the world's fastest AF, which was very true, unlike Fuji's X-Pro 1 that was not even half as fast as any DSLR available at that time.

[@francishwlee]

For me, the 9mm f/1.7 is the most exciting m43 lens to come out in a long time, for all the reasons you've stated. It's a shame that its availability is so poor in Malaysia, though if it helps, I'm in Canada and my preordered copy only just shipped a couple days ago.

[@4mooncheese]

Nicely done. May have to check out the 9mm f1.7. As for the 90mm, I might just stick with the 60mm f2.8. Nice work as always.

[@christinecoughlan4699]

Thank you Robin🏵.

[@robinwong]

No worries, glad I can share

[@jaumeretrogamer1256]

I buyed the panasonic 9mm this summer, and it's a great lens. Good for interiors, buildings and astro. I love this tiny panasonic lens.

[@robinwong]

Thanks for sharing. I am sure it is a great lens.

[@pwx8460]

How is the corner sharpness wide (or nearly wide) open?? DPreview suggested it being good for video and sharp in center, but noted corner softness even stopped down. I was considering it for landscapes and prefer sharpness across the field at least when stopped down. Thanks.

[@jaumeretrogamer1256]

Maybe for architecture it's not the best lens if you are professional, i think the best uses for this lens, are astro, group portraits in low light, and video blogging. All i can say is not as sharp as my 12-40 pro on the corners, but is pretty goon on the center, the bokeh is pleasant, and has a tendency to flare with little pink ghosts when you focus directly to the sun, the sun stars are pleasant at f11, but it's not the best lens for stars.

[@pwx8460]

@@jaumeretrogamer1256 Thanks for the information. Yes, I too am spoiled by my 12-40. Sounds like I'll need to wait longer for a better 8,9,10mm rectilinear that's sharp throughout.

[@jaumeretrogamer1256]

@@pwx8460 Its hard to have an ultrawide rectilinear lens sharp at the corners, maybe you must try the lens if it's enough for the type of photos you do.

[@zayacz123]

I thought about getting the OM 8-25, but now you have me thinking about the Panasonic 9mm. I am intrigued with the idea of a 90mm macro also, but I’m guessing it will be quite expensive.

[@robinwong]

Yeah it all comes down to their pricing.

[@systemanaturae105]

Interesting video clip as always Robin. I already have the 60mm macro and use with both extension rings and Raynox 250. My interest in the 90mm macro with x4 magnification may work well doing macro at a distance from the subject. This could be useful with insects which often do not allow me to get close. I wait for the release and subsequent reviews 😊😊

[@RTFM70]

Like you Robin I have the Raynox and some extension tubes so I will be sticking with the 60mm f2.8.

[@stehlealexander]

ROBIN !... -> 8mm 1.8 Olympus with 3 Levels of FishEye compensation, by far the best solution in my mind !

[@clintjohnson5914]

I'm really happy to see new M4/3 product coming out from Olympus and Panasonic--not just third party makers.. it speaks to the life still in the system. I'm not shaking in anticipation for the new macro---I have a 100mm 2.8 Minolta macro from the 1990s that works fabulously with a cheap adapter..and I also bought a 4/3s Olympus 50mm f2 (that is a great portrait lens too BTW) that is great as well with the MMF-3 adapter. I would rather have a faster aperture than 3.5. My Pana-Leica 15mm 1.7 is my favorite lens and I bought it before I owned a M4/3 camera. I think your seller lied and may not even have had 1 of the 9mm 1.7s to sell. I have friends all over the US and a couple in Canada looking for this lens ,,as well as my local dealer--nobody has them,, that may be the reason he did not take your name to buy one.. My best to "Bobin"... I hope he keeps speaking!!

[@robinwong]

They could have been a bit more polite and explain to me the situation why they don't have the lens, instead of quickly brushing me off.

[@tizio54]

Interesting thought-provoking analysis of the 9mm replacing both the 12mm and 8-25mm. On that thought, a 9mm + 12-45mm kit would make the 8-25 redundant, in a much more compact package with much more reach at the high end. Only compromise is losing 1 mm at the low end. I am now thinking of selling my 8-25mm as I already have the 12-45mm. Question: Any reason why I should keep the 8-25mm?

[@daviddeane723]

Hi Robin. The early reviews of the 9mm f1.7 Pany were really positive so I guessed the demand would be quite high. Pre-ordered in May from Park Cameras, here in the UK, and got mine a month later. Nice lens, use it a lot, well worth the wait.

[@DanCreswell]

I suspect Panasonic are encountering supply issues and have prioritised where the pre-orders are high. The US supply arrived much before UK by observation and general availability only seemed to be from late August. Even now though, Park are back to awaiting stock. I'm not sure what the folks at your show meant when they said "sold out" Robin, but perhaps they were referring to supply seriously outstripping demand. My advice under these circumstance would be get the order in - it's a shame the Pana folks didn't offer you that at the time to be sure. But placing the order signals demand which can only help you.

[@robinwong]

My frustration was how the official Panasonic people dealt with me and the situation. I guess if they are not interested in me buying I'm sure they can find others to buy their lenses.

[@gustavohartel5159]

Thank you! Great video, great information as always!

[@alanneilson6811]

For the 90mm Marco I might get as I do enjoy macro currently use the lumix 45mm. I will wait and see what happens with more details. With regards to the 9mm I like the idea of it, and has been already said there is still on pre order for a lot of stores in the UK. Even from an authorised lumix dealer local to me.

[@robinwong]

Maybe the demand exceeds the supply, but at least put me on the waiting list? It was as if they don't care to sell more of the lens. Here is an interested buyer in front of you, don't you want that?

[@ZoomManny]

Hi Robin, I love your reviews of M4/3 products. Just wondering if you have reviewed third-party lenses from Laowa, Sigma or Voigtlander. I have been intrigued by some of the lenses from Laowa such as the 7.5mm and the 17mm. I know these are manual focus but love to hear your review of these third-party lenses. Cheers!

[@yasirrisay]

Hi, I buy my lenses usualy used, except two. Olympus 25 mm 1.8 and the Panasonic 9 mm 1.7. It was very difficult to get the 9 mm, I called several stores, after all I was one of the lucky ones here in Germany. Even now, two month after my purchase, you cant order it in Germany from stock! This shows us, Panasonic and Olympus never saw the potential from such a lens, otherwise they hed build it before.

[@robinwong]

I don't understand them at all. By now, how can they not know what the customer wants?

[@TheGotoGeek]

Cutting down the maximum aperture saves a ton of money: optical glass suitable for high quality optics increases in cost exponentially with blank size. Also, with all of the complaints about things getting "too big", f/3.5 keeps the size and weight down considerably. 90mm is a traditional focal length for macro lenses, like the Vivtar Series 1, and the legendary Olympus 90mm f/2, a lens that still holds up well. But yes, f/3.5 makes it more of a dedicated macro, and if you aren't doing crazy high mag stuff like oneofone, it may not be that useful. The 60 does a great job on a lot of bugs, and it's sealed, but it won't have the pro build or working distance of the 90. When this lens hits the market I expect to see a lot of reviews comparing it to the 90/2, at least from the more sophisticated reviewers. OMDS really needs to make this one something special.

[@alparjuttner9095]

Actually, you can use the 1:1 button in all focusing mode, not just with MF . Then it is instantly focusing to 1:1. This is an easy way to help the AF system to find the focus when everything is very out of focus in the picture.

[@robinwong]

The question was - how to maintain the 1:1 magnification. Not whether you have to use it or not. I was merely answering that, and the only way to stay at 1:1 is to go manual focus.

[@alparjuttner9095]

@@robinwong Sorry, I made a very stupid misswording, now I fixed it (don't have to -> can). So I didn't want to question what so said, just to add that the use of the 1:1 button is not restricted to the MF mode.

[@andreiput9492]

90mm f3.5 .. tempted to get it if the price is right.

[@robinwong]

Yeah it all comes down to pricing.

[@MicaelWidell]

Really exciting with the 90mm 4x macro lens. Definitely would be an insane lens considering this magnification will give the same framing as a 8x magnification macro lens for full frame (which does not exist!). Will be interesting to see the size and weight of the lens when it is revealed - likely it has a design similar to Canon MP-E 65 or Laowa 25mm, which means it can extend to become very long, to cater for the 4x magnification. At the same time it is supposed to have image stabilization, which sounds almost impossible together with the other specs. If they pull this off it will be a one of a kind lens.

[@robinwong]

Using a teleconverter does not make sense to me, as it only utilizes the center part of the lens and that can greatly reduce resolution, not something good for macro photography where every single detail matters. The teleconverter can be a viable solution to add reach for far away subjects with a little compromise on fine details, but definitely not close up shooting.

[@mariusm2402]

Great. A dedicated macro lens - I think I will go for it although having the 30mm f3.5 and 60mm f2.8 The wide aperture is almost never used in my macro shoots, especially when it comes to 1:1. Mostly use it around F8. If the reductive to f3.5 makes the lens more affordable - great. For f2.8 at 90mm there are other lenses in the MFT system already. It would need to offer even wider aperture than f2.8 to make it interesting for e.g.

[@robinwong]

I agree we don't shoot wide apertures for macro. I was hoping to be able to use this lens outside of macro too. For example the 60mm F2.8 is also an excellent all around medium telephoto lens. Making it F3.5 somehow is less attractive

[@Walkslowlylooking]

If it were f/2 vs. f/3.5, it would necessarily be much more massive, expensive, and might well be performance-compromised. I'm a little surprised to see Robin, who is normally a fresh perspective against the nitpicking pixel-peepers, dwelling so much on what this lens will not be. There are an abundance of 90-100mm f/2 lenses to choose among, I will buy the macro 90mm as a supplement to my 60mm macro and will use both happily with OM-D E-M1 Mk III in camera focus stacking. Can't wait to obtain it.

[@RnFfishy]

This, if the lens is too big and heavy it would compromise it's use. The brilliance of the 60mm is it's size and weight, which makes it easy to hand hold macro shots and doesn't block a top mounted flash with it being excessively big or long. I would have been fine with f4.0 as well. It's a weird thing to nick pick, especially since macro shooters have been screaming for this lens forever. Let the macro shooters have a bone, plenty of portrait options out there. It's ok if a lens specializes in something specific.

[@Photo_CB]

Interesting macro 90mm. But I'm not going to buy one as I am only an occasional macro user. I did buy an O-M1 though, despite your reservations. I am an animal photographer and its been a revelation: it can focus on scenes I had loads of problems with with my E-M1 MkII , especially action. I love the O-M1, though it has a few minor issues. The biggie for me is the mainly platic build which has a few sharp edges on the buttons, and especially on the door of the accessory battery grip, which will wear down with time. Also it has a few firmware oddities. One that still confuses me is that when I use it with OI share on my smartphone it synchronises the camera clock, but doesn't understand summer time/daylight savings, so my clock is always an hour out; and if I've set it myself, the time changes part way through a shoot when I post a quick pic on social media 😞 I see no problems in making Robinspeaks into an occasional vlog series, but next time, I know its hot and humid but please think about a bigger size teeshirt, it's a bit clingy :-)

[@lyndsaywheelans]

I’m very curious about the Panasonic 9mm f1.7. I don’t own the Oly 12mm f2 or the 8-25 f4. I thought it made sense to save my money for the 8-25 but your opinion matters and I am now thinking the 9mm would be a good decision for my first wide. The price and size are definitely a plus.

[@robinwong]

The 9mm is definitely a good alternative, if you can work with a fixed prime and sacrifice the convenience of zoom.

[@YannisSinadinos]

We all expected a 100mm f2.8 as some rumours metioned this a few times... The 90mm f3.5 seems to be prefered to reduce size. I am also afraid that the price will be around 1500 euro/dollars.

[@robinwong]

Yeah it all comes down to price, if it can be under 1000 USD then ok, I can understand that compromise of shorter focal length and F3.5

[@kwok-penglooi799]

Now we know that the new lens has a MF clutch and a Fn Button. Sadly, the price isn't USD1,000 but USD1,500. I'm not likely to get this new lens as I have the 60mm 2.8 macro already, and I'm not a serious enough macro shooter. Thanks for this video Robin.

[@earlteigrob9211]

Perfect lens for me if focus breathing is controlled and it’s not too big. I can then sell my 60 and 30 macros and have one lens that does it all.

[@rolandrick]

Hi Robin, thanks for the update 🙌👍. That’s good news. The 60 mm 2.8 has, referring to the figures on the lens a 1:1 magnification, optically spoken. Did you take the crop factor into consideration? I’m just asking for clarification, did I get it correctly.

[@AguilaDeOnix85]

If they can keep it around $1000 or under new, I might consider it down the road. The 60 is already great but the 4x magnification is tempting. Half of my shooting these days is macro. Glad I stayed MFT. On people that have created cults around their gear: well, let them be in that miserable mindset.

[@robinwong]

Yeah if the pricing is right, it would be an interesting lens! About cult and miserable mindset, I can't just pretend they don't exist when they bombard my comment section here with hundreds of angry, hateful comments directed at me!

[@AguilaDeOnix85]

@@robinwong I absolutely agree with you addressing them. I hate you even have to do it because these people act like they've never heard the word 'improvement'.

[@ddsdss256]

Although my primary system is a Lumix G9, I love my Oly 60mm Macro (and not just for macro). Its 2.0x magnification is more than enough for most applications. I just wish that Oly/OM Systems and Lumix bodies/lenses were mutually-compatible, so you got not only AF (which still works OK when I'm not focusing manually), but dual-IS. I wonder how much I'd utilize that extra mag, plus as you say, it would be better if it were faster. I'm not sure about the value of the 90mm over the 60mm at 3x the price (especially considering how great the 60 is, as your insect shots illustrate--do you have videos sharing your excellent technique?). I also have the Oly TG-5 camera, which can shoot up to 7x (optical) mag, but it's for much closer working distances (MFD of 1cm!), which rules out many subjects. I also have the Leica 100-400, which gives me an EFL of 800mm (0.5x mag "near macro") with an MFD of 1.3m. That's great for skittish/scary subjects.

[@ruisousa81]

Hi Robin, first of all thanks for the amazing videos you make every week! I would like to know your suggestion for a lens! Trails and outdoor sports photography to use on my M5 II, I know you are very honest in your choices and so I appreciate your opinion and will any of those mentioned in the video be an option? thanks!

[@robinwong]

If light is not a problem, then maybe 75-300mm II lens?

[@alfbranch9739]

The 90mm is a 2:1 lens not a 4:1 lens. Macro is not about sensor size crop factor is rubbish especially when talking magnification in macro. My Laowa 50mm f2.8 is 2:1 not 4:1.

[@AbrahamLatchin]

To answer why a company keeps releasing products instead of waiting is simple. Cash flow. Companies cannot afford to wait as the bills won’t wait. You release what you have and price/position it accordingly.

[@robinwong]

I did not ask why the companies kept releasing new products, or saying they should not. I said, for the first ever launch of a new mirrorless system, being the pioneer in the industry, they should at least make sure that the product has less flaws than what was shown in the E-P1. Would that not inspire more confidence to buy later products?

[@AbrahamLatchin]

@@robinwong The answer is cash flow. No company has the time to perfect any product, I know you must know this. But you develop a smaller mirrorless system and lanuch the EP1, the external EVF and improved features and launch the EP2, you develop faster AF and improved features you launch the EP3, you get a new sensor and develop new features, launch the EM5 etc. No company can afford to simply wait. If the technology is ready and the business will get the ROI it ships. The bills never stop coming Robin, salaries must be paid, you ship what you have developed with the team you have... Could thay have had better engineers etc? Not sure, many first attempts, even years later, suffered much of the flaws of early mirorrless.

[@klaustomasini]

Panasonic Leica 9mm f1.7, in Switzerland delivery was stated to January 2023. I will purchase the new macro lense 90mm f3.5.

[@robinwong]

Wow.. by January I'd probably have forgotten about the lens.

[@ipadista]

Regarding your wish for a 2.8 or even 2.0 maco. Wider aperture is never wrong per see, however when used as a close-up macro going towards 4:1 you would in virtually all cases have to step it down a lot, to get a meaningful depth of field. So the wider aperture would rarely be used for actual macro, more for when the lens is doubeling as a generic 90mm lens for portraits etc. To give it features that doesn't directly benefit macro shooting and drives up the price a lot, would be a diss-service to the of the intended target audience. Of course there might be a few situations where a 2.0 macro would be useful, so its not that I try to argue against such a lens if it were ever to happen, however since it would drive up the price a lot, and rarely be used in macro shooting, I don't think it would make sense.

[@leckywoznicki5393]

Thank you. I don't know why they'd make it F3.5. Did you see the F1 racing at all & maybe people should press the bell on here :)

[@robinwong]

I guess F3.5 to keep the size down and make it smaller. I think you are referring to F1 in Singapore? I am in Malaysia.

[@leckywoznicki5393]

​@@robinwong Yeah sorry about that :) Did you ever go to the Malaysia Sepang one? As i'd love to see shot from when it was on if you did & as for the size i've got the 60 F2.8 & it's the small lens i've ever owned it make my camera look like a toy :)

[@amanandapan9635]

21:22 Focus shift is coming with optical design of the lens. There should be no good copy without focus shift.

[@robinwong]

Quite a few people, including some in the comments here did not experience the focus shift issue. It could be present in certain batch of lenses only, who knows maybe they "changed" the optical design in newer lenses after receiving complains about the issue?

[@weisserth]

I'm still using my Four Thirds 50mm f2 on my MFT body. Good enough for my macro needs.

[@robinwong]

I still have that lens too, though I must admit the 1:2 magnification is not enough!

[@weisserth]

@@robinwong Yeah, for insects more is useful I guess. My hunch is that there are still a lot of MFT users who kept their FT 50mm f2 and didn't bother buy any MFT macro lens. For these consumers, the pro grade lens coming soon might be a worthy, no-brainer upgrade.

[@trevtog]

I was disappointed at the focal length and aperture of the OM Systems 90mm macro. Like you, I don't make money from my macro work and will stay with my extension tubes for now. And many times my 12-40mm f/2.8 pro alone gets me close enough for what I want.

[@robinwong]

Yeah I wish the lens is a bit longer, and has brighter aperture. Extension tubes work very well, I am using them too.

[@GS-yg9wk]

Will the price of this lens be attractive? I don't want to buy an expensive lens. In addition to the 90mm 3.5 macro lens, I need a 200mm 3.5 focal length to take pictures of birds.

[@robinwong]

We will only know when they launch the lens officially.

[@basiltiffani8850]

KZbin has been doing something weird with notifications and subscriptions. I've found that several people I followed and I'd not seen anything from for awhile--somehow I was unsubscribed. But I never unsubscribed.

[@moustafaaziz1033]

Hi Robin, you forgot to talk about the olympus 8mm f/1.8 fisheye lens, it's almost equivalent of panasonic 9mm f/1.7 but i agree with you, that panasonic 9mm pricing (500$) is sheaper than the olympus 8mm f/1.8 (850$), it could be an alternative if you still don't find panasonic in malaysia.

[@robinwong]

I am not a fan of a Fisheye lens.

[@pwx8460]

Exactly, looking for a rectilinear super wide.

[@earlteigrob9211]

What about focus breathing issues?

[@mtleealex]

mr robin hi, i am alex lee a malaysian olympus user, and i can borrow you the Panasonic 9 mm f 1.7 lens for you to do review...if you want to try out, as i currently not using it t this moment. thanks

[@robinwong]

Thanks Alex for the kind offer. I did not say I want to do a review. I wanted the lens. And the Panasonic people did not seem to care much for someone unimportant like me. So I guess, no.

[@PinnaclePete]

@@robinwong You're not unimportant to us!

[@mtleealex]

@@robinwong sure no problem if u want to try out for your own use do feel free to let me know about it. Stay safe

[@caw25sha]

On the September 2021 roadmap they showed a macro with a line from 75mm to 150mm which implied it would be a zoom. Obviously what it really meant is a prime somewhere between those focal lengths. Is there any such thing as a macro zoom? I can't think of any but it's not something I know much about.

[@FlappySock]

nikon used to make a macro zoom 70-180mm but magnification was not amazing

[@robinwong]

I'd rather not have a zoom. It is better to have an optimized prime lens!

[@robertcudlipp3426]

As I don't and, will never, shoot macro, this lens obviously is of no relevance to me. That said, it is pleasing to see another new lens being released. I wonder how much of the R and D for the recent lens releases was done before Olympus sold the imaging division?

[@robinwong]

I have a feeling the optical formula for this particular lens was dated as far back as the Four Thirds days. I could be wrong. There was a rumor for 100mm ish macro lens back then which never materialized until now.

[@DeMorcan]

I think the 4X macro will be great. It is not for me. The 60 marco is one of the few macros (going back decades) that was a good all around lens also. I do not think the 4X will be as good as the 60 at infinity or long distances. I was suprised when I first used the 60 that it was so good at everything. I had never seen that in a Nikon or Canon macro before. For the value (price vs image quality), I personally think the 60 is a great and overlooked lens. Although you have to work with the distances to get the out of focus areas the way you want, it can do nice outdoors portraits where you have the room and serve as short tele as well as a macro. I bought the 9/1.7 to replace the 10/2 for low light and in building photography. I still have the 8-25 for outdoors and hiking. At the same time I also got a 12/1.4 which I use a lot more. Although that is just me and how I see things and use my camera. For me, the 9 will not replace the 8-25/4. If it was an 8, I could see having a fast 8, 12, 17, 25 , and portrait lens. Again just me and everyone is diffferent. But when I have to work with or around the perspective distortion, I would perfer to do it with a 16 equivalent instead of an 18 equivalent. The lens is very good. Its fit for me not quite as good. I went from a 10/2, 20/1.4, and 56/1.4 to a 9/1.7 and 12, 20, 56 1.4s. The 12 is my most used now indoors. If the 10 was autofocus, I would go back to it. It covered groups, bands, family and things in smaller clubs, rooms, etc better than the 9 does for me. But that autofocus at events is sure nice.

[@robinwong]

I certainly don't want to carry so many lenses with me! So I have to choose. I have the excellent 12-40mm lens, which overlaps with 8-25mm lens, and the 12-40mm is brighter at F2.8. So carrying 9mm F1.7 when 12mm is not bright enough makes more sense to me. Also if I am not shooting with primes, I'd just carry 9mm F1.7 (if I buy one) then jump straight to 25mm F1.2 PRO and 45mm F1.8 for all my shooting needs, even in my paid jobs.

[@DeMorcan]

@@robinwong I am going to just use the 9 for awhile to get used to it. I feel I need to fully explore it and get comfortable using it. I think I would would like the 9/1/7 and the 20 and 56/1.4s for weight and image quality (once I get used tp the capabilities and limirations of the 9). But the loal store said try this 121/4 and like the 17/1.2, I loved it. Of course I love the 75/18 and 50-200/2/8-4. But I cannot just have lens I love. I need lens that will get the photos I want. That synergy. which everytiime I get, I then ruin bbecause my emotion says I want this and overules my brain which tells me what I need.

[@marekw8352]

Panasonic also not available in Poland

[@robinwong]

That is sad to know

[@earlteigrob9211]

I hope that it has no focus breathing. The 60mm macro is really bad at that where as the Panasonic 30mm had virtually no focus breathing.

[@AlbertKel]

You seems like fairly strong guy. Why do you want to struggle with the micro system made for elderly people who struggle with the weight of a full frame?

[@PhillipMcCallum]

90mm oylympus maybe shame it's not quicker

[@RealLifeThailand]

But i think price of 90mm F3.5 among 1500 USD

[@fanb0y777]

These m43 pro lenses are over priced in my opinion.

[@gerhardwiesinger]

The magnification factor is just wrong, it is only 2x and not 4x. And multipying with 2 with "full frame euivalent" is just wrong. Magnification factor definition is magnification_factor=size_of_sensor/size_subject_reality. Example for MFT with width size of 17.3mm and size_subject_reality=8.65 gives magnification_factor=17.3mm/8.65mm=2. On a full frame sensor you would see more on sensor (width=36mm) but also see more from the subject (18mm). So "equivalent" for fullframe will also be 36mm/18mm and would also give a magnification factor of 2. And the 60mm always has only a magnification factor of 1x (and not 2x). Compare it with a map scale: If you see more (larger or smaller sensor size) the map scale never changes. Or when you have a toy car with scale 1:10. It always will be 1:10 and ratio doesn't change if you photograph a piece with 36mm (full frame) or 17.3mm (MFT). The ratio will always be 1:10. The magnification ratio Olympus/OM System provides is just wrong.

[@dublbude]

150mm macro... F2.8. 300mm f2.8 "Big Tuna" 150mm f2.8 "Little Tuna" 150mm f2.8?? "Mini Tuna"

[@jazzcats1000]

90mm 4:1 macro... really? Still don't believe it. 4:1 means 1mm subject is 4mm on the sensor right? We shall see.

[@robinwong]

That was what they said on paper. They have been correct about specifications all this time. Including the 2:1 claim on 60mm macro. Unless you want to challenge them... go ahead.

[@automaticimprovements6957]

Robin, please start making tutorials again !! back when you used to make tutorials and tips for using Olympus gear, it was the golden age of your channel. Please switch to a new brand (Sony) and start making tutorials !!! imagine how much your channel will grow !

[@robinwong]

If all that I'm good for as a photographer and KZbinr is to make tips and tricks video, and if that was my "golden age", I'm afraid I have failed and I should stop doing all this. I'm making more important "tutorials" and speaking about what truly matters in photography now more than ever. Example - latest video on why high ISO noise should not be an issue - that trumps any shallow tips and tricks videos out there. Anyone can make quick "tutorials" but not many would dig deep and explore the core of photography. I don't want to just talk about gear all the time.

[@richardfink7666]

@@robinwong Very good answer!

[@ThePNWRiderWA]

Perhaps you are not truly aware how bad the supply chain issues are. I work at a power sports dealership they sell expensive watercraft. We have units costing many thousands of dollars sitting there for lack of electronic components. We’re going on nine months I suspect, the camera and lens manufacturers are running in the similar issues.

[@robinwong]

Perhaps you misunderstood my message. I am fine waiting. It was the way they talked to me, or the lack of interest in helping/providing service (putting me in waiting list, giving me an estimate when the order will arrive) that irks me off.

[@dougalsanderson9127]

Edited this comment off as it seems for soem reason it ended up on the wrong video...

[@robinwong]

Where in this video did I say anything about winter and summer?

[@dougalsanderson9127]

@@robinwong will put it there.

[@Dahrenhorst]

The main problem of macro photography is the very limited depth of field - and the longer the focus length and the larger the opening, the smaller it gets. 90mm (180mm on full format) is an awfully long focus length for macro shots. To me, the 60mm is already very long, and with f 2.8 for macro already barely usable (unless you do bracketing and stacking) for macros. On the other hand, a long focus length can overcome the problem of flight distance of some insects, but I rarely take pictures of insects, more of plants or other inanimate objects. So if you're an insect photographer, specializing on skittish insects which usually don't move for a couple seconds so you can use bracketing, this lens might be what you are looking for. For me, no thanks.

[@alparjuttner9095]

This is not true for macro photography. For close subjects, the depth of field depends on the size of the target and the aperture, but not on the focal lens. On the other hand, the very distant objects more blur in case of longer focal lens, which is a bonus. Secondly, longer focal lens causes less perspective distortion. Thirdly, the longer working distance is a big advantage in many cases. That's why there is a long tradition of using telephoto lenses in wildlife macro photography.

[@JacobNewmen]

Are you still with OM/Olympus? Or have you completely switched to Sony?

[@robinwong]

Watch the video to find out the answer!

[@mauroangelantoni6889]

This speak was about nothing

[@robinwong]

This comment is empty.

[@WhoIsSerafin]

Big disappointment because of what you said in the video