Prime vs Zoom: Olympus 14-42mm Kit Lens vs 25mm f1.8 Prime ep.119

[@tombackhouse9121]

I like this, you're a straight talker who got right down to showing me what I needed to see to understand the difference between these lenses. Subscribed! Having just become interested in photography and dropped what is for me quite a considerable sum on a TG-6 and an E-M10 this year, it looks like your videos are going to be invaluable when it comes to deciding when and how to expand my equipment! I think the new year will probably see me add a prime lens to my E-M10 bag on the strength of this comparison.

[@RobTrek]

Glad to help. Please don't hesitate to ask me anything.

[@ted356]

I’m new to Olympus m43 and I appreciate all your videos. Excellent work! Thanks to you I finally understand OM software and what to look for as I expand my portfolio of lenses.

[@RobTrek]

Glad to help!

[@TCizauskas]

Happy anniversary, Rob. Thanks for all of your fine work (including this useful lens comparison).

[@RobTrek]

Thank you!

[@DavidMBanes]

That was excellent, re-taught me a bit about ISO as well, still re-learning having not had a good camera since my film days.

[@RobTrek]

Thanks.

[@devroombagchus7460]

Thanks! Well thought out.

[@RobTrek]

Glad it was helpful!

[@AhmadThabet-qw1kc]

Many thanks Rob for the professional and realistic reviews that you make for OM Digital lenses. What type of adapter you are using to shoot with classic OM Film lenses on your MFT camera body ? The Olympus MF-2 adapter is no longer produced by Olympus and is not available in the market, please advise.

[@RobTrek]

I use a cheap "Fotasy" brand adapter. Thanks.

[@MukilteoSailor]

Rob, happy KZbin anniversary. Thanks for all the Olympus content you create.

[@RobTrek]

Thank you and Happy New Year!

[@schmoddd]

Happy Anniversary!! I really enjoy your calm and informative Videos!

[@RobTrek]

Thank you and Happy New Year!

[@harrythompson5834]

Hi Rob I've just seen a couple of yourOlympus lens comparisons. Great stuff, I learned so much and really enjoyed the videos's.

[@RobTrek]

Thanks!

[@swheeler6848]

Thank you so much. I’m a hobbyist at best on a budget. You explained and more importantly demonstrated the kit vs prime lenses perfectly.

[@RobTrek]

Glad it was helpful!

There is one consideration to take into account : the weight and size of each lens. I love the kit lens because I'm a hiker. The OM10 MkII with the kit lens is so lightweight and small, very helpful in this case.

[@RobTrek]

The primes are pretty small, but the kit lens rocks!

[@jonbarnard7186]

Olympus kit lenses have always been good. I prefer the 1.8 primes, but in general most people would be hard pressed to tell the difference, unless you're doing big prints or other critical work. The 40-150 kit zoom is a spectacular deal. I sold mine but only because I bought the 12-100 so I figured I wouldn't use the kit lens, but the 40-150 really is a very good lens and a complete steal. The 14-42 kit lenses are also very good and very compact for travel. The 14-42 EZ pancake lens is also very nice for travel, and I like the results, even if some pixel peepers don't. I'm getting old and I don't like to lug around a lot of glass. Thanks for taking the time to do these tests Rob.

[@RobTrek]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Yes, the 12-100 pretty much negates the need for any other lens in that range. It's on my short list for times when I want to carry only 1 lens, plus the dual ibis setup has got my interest peaked. I don't own any ibis lenses.

[@rickf4401]

Rob, as always, very helpful. Thank you.

[@RobTrek]

Happy to help!

[@rpdee7344]

Great review, been following and learning from you since I started using Olympus OM-D E-10 mII and EM-1 cameras. Have the 14-42, 40-150 kit lenses and been using some of my Classic Olympus OM SLR film lenses as manual lenses with an adapter. Love the look that the classic lenses give plus the f 1.4 - 1-8 aperture without the more expensive digital lenses cost. The Olympus OM-D camera with it retro look and feel with the classic manual lenses cause you to slow down like the film days and think more of your composing before tripping the shutter. Plus with shooting with classic film lenses instead of having to add a look and feel of film in your post production software it will have the look and feel when shooting the photo. Love to see you do a comparison shoot with a Prime lens VS Classic/Vintage Oly Lens. The only issue I have had with shooting with Classic glass is finding film lenses on the wide angle mm because the lenses give you a 2x magnification cause of the micro 4/3 format.

[@RobTrek]

I love putting my old om lenses on. You may have noticed my 24mm f/2.8 on my penf time to time. I may do a comparison after I get through my m4/3 lenses.

[@AhmadThabet-qw1kc]

What type of adapter you are using to shoot with classic OM Film lenses on your MFT camera body ? The Olympus MF-2 adapter is no longer produced by Olympus and is not available in the market, please advise.

[@hm2280]

Nice comments. I appreciate it.

[@RobTrek]

Thanks!

[@norfalinamrosli7398]

Hi Rob, I have a EM10 Mark II and your videos have been very helpful for me - thanks a lot for making them! :) i am thinking to get my first prime lens but undecided between 17mm and 25mm and would like to know your thoughts/suggestions?

[@RobTrek]

The 25mm is good all-around lens including portraits. The 17mm is commonly used for street and travel. For me, I'd go 25mm. Eventually you'll want the 17mm too.

[@jenniferb4518]

Your timing for this video was a bit off for me personally as I received the 25mm 1.8 for a Christmas present. I love it! My photos are sharp, in low light it responds excellent, bokeh is amazing, and it makes for feel like I am doing all the correct things to get a photo and not just a snapshot. Thank you for this video and happy anniversary for giving us 2 years of very informative, interesting and useful videos.

[@RobTrek]

Thank you! Yes, the 25mm is certainly one of the best! I need to practice using it more for stills. I've never been comfortable with this "natural" focal length.

[@יונתןנחום-כ5ע]

Thank you Rob! For the first time someone really think about us the viewers and compare between what we have and what we might want. great thinking! Thank you!!

[@RobTrek]

Thanks. I try to put things in perspective for the beginning photographer.

[@imcoop13]

Thanks Rob as an enthusiastic elderly amateur thinking of switching to M4/3 with the EM5 markiii I ve found your videos soo helpful. Just one little thing - you often say “ that’s easy to fix in post” It would be great if in your videos you could maybe show us less experienced a step by step how. Keep up your great work!

[@RobTrek]

Thanks. Yes, I do gloss over the post processing but do have some tutorials on Olympus Workspace you can check out.

[@imcoop13]

@@RobTrek I have them all saved Rob,but just a little comment such as “by lightening the shadows” or using the “ ??” aids in workspace would help a lot. Anyway you are by far the best source on u tube for Olympus help and I can’t thank you enough for your work. Best wishes from across the pond 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🤓

[@RobTrek]

@@imcoop13 Makes sense. I'll be sure to cover that a little better in future videos.

[@imcoop13]

@@RobTrek Thankyou🙏🏻

[@OutRAjious]

Rob just bought auto Lens cap for 14-42 … it’s great! But now when i test the lens … zoomed in it’s more blurred than it should be … have examples

[@RobTrek]

Hi. That should not be the case. I don't have the auto lens cap, so can't share any experience with it. However, Ben over at The Narrowband Channel does have the auto lens cap. Maybe leave a comment on his latest video and see if he is experiencing this problem. Personally, no one has ever brought that up with me. Another place to try is the mu43.com forum. There is a good community there that is very helpful. Sorry I couldn't help you with this one.

[@OutRAjious]

@@RobTrek Thanks Rob … no prob I recommend the auto lens cap…. I think I was just a bit rusty and had my ISO too high … on 200 it’s much better now Thanks Again

[@flyfishnfoto]

Happy anniversary Rob.Another very useful video. Comparing lenses in the way you are going is so useful to us Oly owners.

[@RobTrek]

Thank you and Happy New Year!

[@christinejoysacramento5507]

Hi Rob, been watching a lot of your vids lately because I've been torn choosing in between some decent deals for used EM10II in my location. Best two among them are both more than a year old. Opt A. Includes the body (1,500 actuations) 2 kitlens (14-42mm & 40-150mm-but the 14-42mm has flex issues and only zooms until 27mm). Also, includes the box and all the accessories, SD card, plus a camera bag, and priced at $400. Opt B. Includes the body (4k actuations), 1 lens (Oly 25mm with hood), SD card, extra battery, plus cam bag, priced at $520. Leaving the lens out, I know Opt A is a more decent offer. But going back, Opt A, having 2 kitlens is also nice, but I still have to have one fixed; while Opt B feels a bit competitive because the 25mm lens costs $270 brand new. I'm sorry for the really long post, but I hope you can help me out before either of them gets sold or I'll just have to choose whichever's left, lol. Btw, maybe to mention, I'm also looking at a used EM5II offered at $560 1,500 actuations) with the 12-50mm kitlens, box and accessories, & extra battery. The EM10II body retails at $400 here brand new & $550 with 14-42mm kitlens, & the EM5II body at $630.

[@RobTrek]

I'd get the em5-ii with 12-50mm. Opt A has a broken lens and will have to be replaced. Opt B is a good deal, but 25mm is a bit limited. The em5-ii is a much better camera and just buy a 40-150mm for $99 and you're done!

[@christinejoysacramento5507]

Awesome! I felt a bit more torn thinking what I'd do if you'll recommend either of the EM10s 'cause I'm starting to lean towards choosing the EM5II as well, haha I guess I forgot to mention that the EM5II is more than 2yrs old (though w/ only 1,500 SC) with some minor corrosion in the strap ring/holder part only. Though everything else look really smooth, plus it's an "EM5II!" :D I greatly appreciate your quick response, Rob. Also for having a channel almost dedicated to Olympus gears, now I know where to go if ever I have to choose between lenses moving forward. Greetings from the Philippines!

[@dannygo4230]

This is really a GREAT video. I am getting ready to do an event. I am nursing a hand injury, radial nerve thing, and holding a DSLR camera during red carpet is not good for it. While not exactly an apples to apples comparison, Rob did show that this cool little lens holds out well, nearly wide open, compared to a fixed prime at some 3 stop down. I will be shooting this lens at f8 with an EP-L7, and bring out larger strobe to compensate for the light, and therefore be able to shoot at some 2 stop lower ISO. Red carpet is not a very critical application, just a bunch of shot of silly people doing silly things. This is also a case where extended depth of field is good. Just keep everything sharp.

[@soundsofnature7203]

Hi, great video. Would be interesting to see a comparison inside the house. Have both lenses love the 25 mm.

[@RobTrek]

Thanks. Might do that in future.

[@wahabdilawar]

CONGRATULATIONS for your 2 years anniversary. You have tried hard to create content for us and I really appreciate your time and effort. I bought a new Panasonic 25mm f/1.7 for about 150 USD recently and it is not leaving my em-10 II for quite some time now. The settings are fixed for shooting my kids at home for random portraits of them, when we feel like it. The settings are f2.2, 1/50s ISO 800 and these settings give me a result, which I can live with. And for any photographer of any caliber...the 50mm equivalent is a must have. I like the 50mm equivalent for 3/4 or full body portrait. It's not the most flattering for tight headshots though.

[@RobTrek]

I have 2 of the Panasonics. I'll have to do a video on it since many of us buy that lens over the Oly simply for the much lower price and no loss in quality. Thank you and Happy New Year!

[@francoisvilleneuve5341]

Hello Bob Very interesting vidéo with good examples

[@RobTrek]

Many thanks!

[@christinecoughlan4699]

Thank you very much Rob .

[@RobTrek]

Thanks for watching!

[@MrMannimarco]

Happy anniversary Rob... and thanks! I think this is the first review of a prime lens that makes sense. I always think "ok, nice, but what could the kit lens do in the same conditions?" Thanks again!

[@RobTrek]

Thanks and happy new year! So many reviews never compare a lens to what most people have already. When they do compare lenses, it's usually against another similar lens which is not helpful either for most people. "Oh, should I get the 42.5 f/1.2 or the 45 f/1.2?". Really? Then when people buy it for $1000+, it's like - "Well, it's a little better on my computer but when I upload to instagram I can't see any difference."

[@pecarew2003]

Hi Rob, was it my imagination or did the kit lens actually follow and refocus faster than the prime? Good demo, thanks again!

[@RobTrek]

Thanks. I don't think there was any difference that I could measure, especially in a test as unscientific as this one.

[@jodybiztube]

Great comparison as always. Thank you. I currently have the 12-40/2.8. Do you think the 25/1.8 would be a good investment also?

[@RobTrek]

If you really like the 25mm focal length, the prime will be smaller/lighter and give you 1.3 stops more light for exposure. Otherwise, the 12-40 is fine.

[@jodybiztube]

@@RobTrek Thank you for your reply. I'll try to shoot more 25mm with the 12-40 and see how it turns out. I have the 17/1.8 and 45/1.8 but hardly use them except on very low light. Thanks again.

[@RobShootPhotos]

Very good video. I got the Panasonic version for $150 brand new and I have no problems with compatibility. However with zoom lenses, I would only go with Olympus on Olympus bodies.

[@RobTrek]

I have two of the Panasonic 25mm. It works great for me too, but I do hear problems time to time with mixing brands. I'll discuss my thoughts on the Pana 25 vs the Oly 25 in another video.

[@1VperOctave]

Happy New Year anniversary Rob. Thank you for all the hard work you put into your videos. This video, as always is well thought out, edited, and presented at just the right pace.

[@RobTrek]

Thank you and Happy New Year! I actually cut a few corners on the editing because I wanted to get this one out before I headed out for a social thing.

[@mootpointjones8488]

Good and informative. I have several prime lens for my M4/3 camera but I picked up a used 14-42mm yesterday for £15/$20 and it will be a solid addition in my view. Thanks for your review.

[@RobTrek]

Thanks. I have other videos comparing the kit lens. It holds up pretty well.

[@alexforero2674]

Excelente video gracias por compartir sus conocimientos 👏

[@ezpzjeez]

A well balanced vlog covering prime Vs kit zoom and also how they perform in still Vs video mode. The 25mm prime certainly has a edge over bokeh quality and faster shutter speed/lower ISO in still photos which is a real winning point over kit lens. However, 25mm prime had focus hunting in video mode was quite visible compared to kit zoom which kept the sharp focus throughout with very minimal hunting. So I felt 25mm prime best suited for still but for video will swap to kit zoom lens. I have heard great things about 45mm/f1.8 prime for its bokeh and low light results, so looking to get one unless there is a better recommendation.

[@RobTrek]

I'm going to test this lens soon, but it's great and can't beat the price! Money and weight no object, then the 45 pro is sweet!

[@robertro1640]

Thanks for it!

[@RobTrek]

You bet!

[@robertro1640]

@@RobTrek Good that you compare photos, many video on yt does't has it

[@rowens_el_terricola]

Amazing video thanks, this information convinced me to buy the kit lenses for my everyday activities

[@RobTrek]

Glad I could help!

[@rowens_el_terricola]

@@RobTrek thanks for your help, only one more question, were you talking about either the kit ii r or the kit EZ? By the way you have a new subscriber from Latinamerica

[@RestorationAustralia]

I bought the 1.8 prime and I'm very happy with that, I love the Olympus brand great concept and quality I have the pen from 1959 and still does the job, I also have the tg6 as well, not much different from the tg5.

[@RobTrek]

I love the Olympus brand too! I have a PenFT and TG5.

[@tinabergstrom3331]

Thanks Rob for such an informative video, Very Helpful!

[@RobTrek]

Thanks again, Tina.

[@damianmas]

Hi Rob!! Congratulations and happy new year!! What about 7 artissans prime lens 25mm 1,8... fully manual in 85€?? If you keep doing videos... all of us will keep learning!! Tnxs!!!

[@RobTrek]

Thanks. Happy New Year! Sorry, don't have that lens to test. Will do if I ever get one.

[@damianmas]

Waiting for that!! 😃

[@valdiskrebs566]

Very informative - thanks! Key question: compared to what?

[@RobTrek]

Thank you! Yes, always compare.

[@DivisionStreetDrums]

Happy New Year Rob, what a day for a video. It was nice and warm up here in NJ. Have both of these lenses, the 25,, is amazing, I still use the kit lens but I also purchased the 12-50 mm that came with the original em 5. I use that a lot too and love the few extra mm on the top and bottom end.

[@RobTrek]

Thanks and Happy New Year! It was nice and warm down here in Maryland, so had to go out and make a video. I like the 12-50mm focal range. I'd rather have it over the 14-42, but hard to justify it when I already have the 14-42.

[@petegleeson1]

Thanks Rob I really appreciate the insight you provide.

[@RobTrek]

Thank you!

[@Notturno81]

Hi Rob, Great video. What I'm missing however, is the comparison in higher apertures like f22. How much sharper is the prime 25mm than the kit lens?

[@RobShootPhotos]

Just an idea on a video. One thing I noticed about Olympus glass is that they have some of the best minimum Focus distance and magnification against many full frame and APS-C lenses. I feel like that is rarely discussed in a review and also explained how they measure the minimum focus distance. Like for example, two lenses may have the same focus distance but one lens might be an inch longer.

[@RobTrek]

I actually recorded some footage on the minimum focus distance but didn't include it simply because I ran out of time editing. I'll have to give some thought on how to make a video about it. Thanks.

[@RobShootPhotos]

@@RobTrek I was thinking about going with Fujifilm. My friend has the XT1 with the 18-55mm and I realized my focus distance was half of his and the pro lenes ain't much better. Between that, no IBIS with XT2 & 3 and lack of selection of lenses made it too many compromises for what Olympus offers. I would love to see them to add phase detection with 20mp in the EM5 but I been really happy with my EM10. We shall see what comes this year!

[@MrWozzafive]

Thanks for another informative video Rob. Happy anniversary as well as a Happy New Year.

[@RobTrek]

Thank you. Happy New Year!

[@gilbertwalker6769]

Happy New Year and Happy Anniversary on KZbin! I’m grateful for your dedication in making these videos. I just got me em10 I in May and I learn so much from you. Keep up the good work!

[@RobTrek]

Thank you and Happy New Year!

[@alex-sd]

I just subbed because of your great review. I have both of these lenses and didn't know all those differences. I got the 25mm due to shallow depth and low light shots.

[@RobTrek]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jannieschluter9670]

I use the kit lens and the 45mm f1.8. Prime lenses are so good. A very wide angle prime, a 'normal' 25mm prime, and another prime above that would be quite sufficient. It also depends a lot on what whotos one usually takes.

[@RobTrek]

Thanks. I prefer primes when I want the best image quality but I'm very content with the zooms for most things.

[@davidrivett4749]

Thanks Rob, very helpful & informative & helps me decide whether to buy a 25mm F1.8 Lens or not.

[@RobTrek]

Thanks and Happy New Year!

[@nellatrab]

Ditto on the kit lens....it's pretty darn good. Happy Anniversary too!

[@RobTrek]

Thanks. Kit lens is not bad at all. I never regret bringing it with me.

[@MrDinakdakan]

i just found your channel and i like it, thank you for making vids about oly i have old e1 4rds and some lenses, now have em5 and looking for good lenses and your channel is great! thank you for the comparisons

[@RobTrek]

Thank you!

[@Stitch_n_Brick]

Happy new year and happy anniversary to you! Good job, please keep doing these kind of lens comparison video which is very helpful to us.

[@RobTrek]

Thank you and Happy New Year!

Happy YUTUB 2 years Anniversary Sir, I keep watching your clips witch bring me a mutch better knowledge and control over my own equipment ! Thanks again!

[@RobTrek]

Thank you and Happy New Year!

[@V8rgr8]

Thank you Rob, you always have interesting, educational videos! Defiantly the 25mm for me!

[@RobTrek]

Great lens. Thanks!

[@thomasli2561]

Thank you. I think the difference will be more obvious under low light situation.

[@RobTrek]

Absolutely. Happy New Year!

[@Eternai91]

This is a great idea, because of the easy perspective drawn with the kit lens. I would really like to see a similar review of all the rest Olympus f1.8 primes - 17mm and 45 mm.

[@RobTrek]

Thanks. I have the 45mm, so will do that soon. I'm really looking hard at getting the 17.

[@Eternai91]

@@RobTrek I just recently got the 45mm for what I consider to be a steal at around 100$. That's why Im looking to the 25mm 1.7 Lumix with the 17mm Olympus.

[@bartek20th]

Congrats Rob! Thank you for your great work! This test is very helpful for my photo education;)

[@RobTrek]

Thank you and Happy New Year!

[@grumpywiseguy5992]

Great comparison. I own the Panasonic version of both lens plus the 14-140. %90 of the time the 14-140 just lives on my G85. I think I have used the 25mm twice, maybe 3 times in the last two years. But for some reason I have always had a fast 50mm (equivalent) in my bag, even if I don't use it. I think that lens marketing has won that battle. Happy New Years!!

[@RobTrek]

Happy New Year! The 25mm has pretty much been single purpose video lens for me. Whenever I go out on a photowalk, I put my 14-42 kit lens on.

[@pdw7165]

Very helpful video. Thanks mate.

[@RobTrek]

Thank you.

[@ThePNWRiderWA]

Interesting. I bought the 60mm a few years ago for macro work. Surprised that it’s excellent for portraits as well in some situations. It’s also the sharpest of all my lens. The 30mm is a very underrated lens as well that I use a lot for general shooting as it’s a good size with the em1mkll and well balanced

[@RobTrek]

I almost got the 60mm, but went with the 75mm. I think the 30mm is in a tough spot. I'm sure it's great, but next to a 60mm for macro and the 25mm for normal stuff, it falls a bit short. It's great if only want to carry one lens and do macro and normal stuff at the same time. I have the Nikon 60mm macro glued to my d750 for that reason. Nice all purpose lens. But now that I'm in m4/3, it's easy enough to carry a couple extra lenses.

[@mikecolley1093]

Happy anniversary I can confirm I find the prime lens great in low light

[@RobTrek]

Thanks! Happy New Year!

[@dvbeattie]

Excellent analysis. Thank you!

[@RobTrek]

Thanks for watching!

[@asterix908]

The 25mm f1.8 can be picked up on ebay for close to 150, at that price its totally worth it. Also the panasonic 20mm f1.7 pancake is even less at somewhere between 100-150. Those are both great lenses.

[@RobTrek]

Great deals! Thanks.

[@PMS1950]

During the pre-digital days (1960s - 1980s) working in the UK as a full time Wedding and Commercial Photographer, when it came to checking assignment proofs etc and working in monochrome, my only concern was that the print was in focus, correctly exposed and heads included (inexperienced operators using twin lens reflex gear!! ). I certainly didn't waste time and energy obsessing over the sort of image criteria today's digital snappers seem to waste their time with. I realise that the mechanics and aesthetics of imaging has changed along with the technology leading to numerous 'you tube' channels all manned by 'Professional' photographers keen to guide and tutor the ever eager amateur in the 'mysteries?' and alchemy of achieving the ultimate digital image. We need to return to the basics and concentrate on composition and confidence to the extent that being able to shoot fully manually, eschewing all the automatic aids and learning to set exposures and apertures using one's own eyes, experience and instincts. All my weddings were shot without light meters. And my sole use of a Weston device was when I needed to check incidental light settings in a studio based 'product' or advertising shoot.

[@RobTrek]

Thanks for sharing your experience. The core fundamentals of photography will never change.

[@uguryay]

Good video again Rob. I am thinking about buying Panasonic 25mm f1.7 for my Em5 Mark2. It has a good price. Have you ever tested it?

[@RobTrek]

I would avoid the Panasonic brands on Olympus. I have this lens and it's worked fine for me, but I've had other viewers comment they are having trouble with it. I may do another test comparing that lens with the Olympus version.

[@adamtrattles5874]

i agree Rob, i bought the panasonic new for the em10 mk2. the focus was out so i exchanged it to find that one was the same. i guess it was a bad batch. i recently picked up another copy second hand and its super sharp. i think the quality control is hit and miss which maybe is why some like it or hate it. another great episode by the way.

[@2Old4Toys]

Casual snapper here... I can’t be bothered to swap out my lightweight kit zoom lens for a fast prime when out and about. When shooting a specific planned out portrait like in this video perhaps... but not on a walk about. I have just the 17mm f1.8 and 60mm 2.8 primes that are nice, but the rest of my Olympus lenses are kit zooms which are so much more flexible that I use them far more often than I do my primes.

[@RobTrek]

Couldn't agree more. I rarely choose the 25mm prime over the kit unless I have a specific shot in mind for it. The 17 is on my short list and the 60 is now off the table since I'm not too serious about macro and have the 75mm.

[@HenryFalkner]

Nice comparison. I used my 14-42 today for shooting our home-stayers at their request. I gave them the camera originals, and they have not yet complained. They may not complain at all.

[@RobTrek]

Thanks. The 14-42 is a fantastic lens, as are most of the Olympus lenses.

[@maxheadroom7687]

HappyAnniversary Rob. Another great video, very informative and great quality.😎🇦🇺👍

[@RobTrek]

Thank you!

[@f8bethere]

Good comparison. Great video as always. Thanks

[@RobTrek]

Thank you!

[@Locuslokalokuza]

This video make me clear. Do I need that lens or not. Thanks.

[@RobTrek]

Hi. I would wait until you are sure you need it. I've bought many lenses that I hardly use because I wanted them but didn't really need them. Take lots of pictures at 25mm with your kit lens then decide if a prime lens will help your photography.

[@edwardzwier6626]

First of all: My best wishes for this new year to you and your family! And thanks for this informing video. As I have this prime lens the info was helpfull. If in future you have some time left; think also at the 12-50mm zoomlens, which is the kit lens with the EM 5. Again, many many thanks for your Olympus info's

[@RobTrek]

Thank you and Happy New Year! Unfortunately I don't have the 12-50, but do prefer the focal range over the 14-42mm. Hard to justify getting now since I already have a 14-42.

[@Hoggdoc1946]

Rob I have recently discovered your YT channel and really enjoy your in depth commentary. I have been shooting Nikon and Olympus for years but recently sold all my Pro Nikon gear and upgraded my OMD MD5 to a OMD M5 MkII gripped w/extra battery. Love the new body! Currently I have following lens: Olympus 45mm Premium f/1.8, Olympus 40-150 f/4-5.6, original Sigma 19mm f/2.8, Olympus 12-50mm f/3.5-6.3. From an overall sharpness and IQ my preference is the Oly 45mm, but it is a bit long for walk around shooting. This review and a couple of others have me leaning towards buying the Olympus 25mm f/1.8 lens review here. But I keep hearing really good things about the Panasonic 25mm f/1.7 lens as well. Do you have a review on the pana lens or would you consider doing a side by side with the Olympus and Panasonic lens?

[@RobTrek]

Thanks. I actually did a similar style comparison here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iHLYhqx3YreUick

[@anavsharma5916]

Hi Rob! Nice video with a lot of info! I wanted to ask which lens do you prefer to use for Architectural photography?

[@RobTrek]

Thanks. I like wide lenses. 7-14mm is perfect!

[@beholder2012]

For sharpness (and for more difficult light conditions) I've chosen Sigma 30/2.8 because I found it at acceptable price on eBay. Yes, it's not as fast as Oly 25/1.8, but: -- actually apart from doing portraits most of the time there would be a need to stop Oly25 down a little anyway -- exactly to at least 2.8 (or even to 4) -- to broaden depth of field -- regarding bokeh: Oly 45/1.8 is better for bokeh than 25/1.8 (and for doing portraits it's better too) So when already having 14-42 -- which offers maybe not marvelous, but still acceptable quality of pictures -- 25/1.8 seems to be a bit "redundant". Maybe if one day I find it cheaper I'll buy it just for pure pleasure of "having it too" (and as a "spare").

[@RobTrek]

Thanks for your feedback. I agree with everything you said.

[@doganmk6366]

Quite illuminating, thanks a lot…

[@RobTrek]

Thanks!

[@guyracine7998]

Hi Rob. Happy New Year and congratulations on your anniversary. I just love your videos. About chromatic aberration: diis it a dream dream or is there less of it in the JPEG photos than in the raw ones? I took a picture that I really liked the other day but when I post processed it, I thought there was less CA in the JPEG than in the raw file. I haven’t done other tests since, unfortunately. Could it be due to the treatment done in the camera itself?

[@RobTrek]

Thank you and Happy New Year! You are on the right track. The Jpegs are processed by the camera engine, so if it has the data for CA for that lens built in, it can remove it from the jpg. Raw files are supposed to have as little processing done to them as possible.

[@guyracine7998]

Thanks for the prompt answer. It might be a good subject for another video: gains and losses of jpg vs raw. I know a professional photographer who says he only shoots jpg’s. Members of my photo club only swear by raw. Quite confusing...

[@RobTrek]

If I take a picture of a grey wall, a raw file will be no better than jpg. Now add colors, lighting, and texture. At what point is a jpg going to start falling behind to the point that you think you can do a better job than the camera at creating the final image. Remember, the camera always shoots in raw, then processes a jpg. For my pro work, more than once I forgot to set the camera to save raw files. But since I bracket, layer, use lighting, etc... it didn't matter much and I used the jpg files no problem. I could go jpg all the time, but prefer the raw just in case. Raw files have saved me, especially in white balance situations. I may do a video on this, but scares me a bit because of the strong opinions on both sides.

[@guyracine7998]

Got it. Then I'll keep shooting Raw+JPEG. Memory is cheap nowadays. That way I have all the flexibility I need. You're definitely right about the strong opinions. Looks like a religion at some point.

[@bdssoaz]

Great video Rob! 👍 What Olympus lens do you recommend for shooting concerts? Thanks!

[@RobTrek]

If you can get close enough 75mm f/1.8. Otherwise the 40-150 f/2.8 + teleconverter.

[@bdssoaz]

@@RobTrek thank you! I don't own the 75mm 1.8 ( I wish tho 😉). I'll try to get the teleconverter for the 40-150 f2.8 Cheers!

[@stuartreece8821]

Hi Rob, Happy New Year and congratulations on your first two years. Impressive dedication to have produced so many videos in two years. I have the 14-42mm kit lens and although I don't use it much now as I get an error message when I extend it to about 35mm (still seems to work ok between 14 and 35mm) I was always fairly happy with the quality of the images it produced except I thought there was quite a lot of distortion (straight edges near the edge of the frame showed considerable barrel distortion - in my opinion). I wondered whether you had ever noticed this or maybe I got a rogue lens.

[@RobTrek]

Thanks. I had a 14-42mm do the exact same thing! Sometimes I could get past 35mm, but most times lens error. Must be a seam in the contacts that wear out right at that spot. I've not noticed it since I'm not so critical with my personal shots and a click of the button in Lightroom fixes most of this.

[@trembichmovingmoments8778]

Great concept and first video of what hopefully will be a series 🙂 Also your voice is very relaxing 🙂 Cheers from Germany 🙂

[@RobTrek]

Thank you!

[@ziqiangli4071]

Looking forward to comparison video about 17mm f1.8, very nice video.

[@RobTrek]

Thanks. I don't have a 17mm f/1.8, so can't do a comparison. I may pick one up soon, but really don't need one.

[@AbbasBinYounas]

In the wide open shots, the Jeep grille gaps appear much smaller in the 25mm photo compared to the gaps in the kit lens photo. Is this because of the DoF at play, or is it something else as well??

[@RobTrek]

Yes, this is caused by the shallower DoF. Nothing else would come into play in this setting.

[@AbbasBinYounas]

@@RobTrek Thanks for the reply. It's always a pleasure watching and learning from you.

[@schleprok6333]

which variant of the 14-42mm kit lens was used?? I mean, there are like 3 that I'm aware of...

[@RobTrek]

It was the 14-42 II R, manual zoom.

[@cullamartin]

Thank you :)

[@RobTrek]

Happy to help!

[@robertcudlipp3832]

A late comment as have just come into Olympus- Pen F. Also have Canon FF dslr and range of L series and Sigma Art lens. My initial response to the Olympus system was the very reasonable price of the various lens, Pro and standard. Purchased a mint 12-40 2.8. Ok, more expensive than the kit. That said, don't yet have any expertise with post software. So naturally attracted to the glass which gives the best ooc images. However, when compared to Canon L, Nikon pro, Sigma Art, even the Olympus Pro lens, maybe not so much the 25 1.2, 17 1.2 , are comparatively excellent value. Rob, in this comparison, thought the price of the 25 1.7, may have been something of a deterrent. Fair enough, but compared with the glass in apsc and FF, the Olympus standard primes are superb value and the Pro glass, for what it is, likewise great value for money. E.g. If you were shopping for a Canon 70-200 2.8 IS, in Australia, the lens costs AU$ 2,900- am aware of B and H pricing, however I reside in Australia.

[@RobTrek]

Thanks for sharing your experience. The penF is awesome little camera. You'll want to get a grip to handle the larger lenses. You should try adapting your canon glass to it.

[@stehlealexander]

Great real world comperisation , thanks

[@RobTrek]

Thank you!

[@arthurrmcphee4885]

Congratulations on 2 years, your content remains awesome Rob. I was surprised at the kit lens results compared to prime, mine is the pancake 14-42 @f3.5. Similar results id say. Excellent argument for fast primes. I'd want a 25mm equivalent fast prime for the photo's I make, not sure if that exists. Thanks for your content.

[@RobTrek]

Thanks! The 12mm f/2 is really good. I think Panasonic has a 12mm f/1.4 now.

[@tobywoolgar9517]

What cheaper lens would you recommend for landscape time lapse photography im not sure what lens is the best for lens flar

[@RobTrek]

The wider the better. Maybe try the Meike 6.5mm fisheye or 7 Artisans wide angles.

[@tobywoolgar9517]

@@RobTrek thanks for your replay will have a look

[@marcelbarriel]

Congratz Rob,. Good video about normal use of our gear. I think people expect to much when they buy a pro lens......!

[@RobTrek]

Thank you!

[@c.augustin]

I had the kit lens with an E-PM1 and it was the reason why I first dismissed MFT (and this specific camera). But when I bought a Leica M adapter (just to see what my 2/50 Summicron would be on such a camera) and had a "real" lens on the E-PM1, I realized how good this tiny camera actually was. My dislike of the 14-42 kit lens stems from this time. Much more interesting would be a comparison with the this 14-42 pancake zoom lens from Olympus.

[@RobTrek]

The original kit lens was bad. They improved it quite a bit in the IIR and EZ versions. The pancake zoom is virtually identical now to the IIR in terms of IQ. My EZ version broke, so I replaced it with the IIR.

[@c.augustin]

@@RobTrek I think it was a IIR, but on the other hand I did a (very short) test with the EZ and it looked "snappier" to me. So maybe there was something else going on. The EZ I find interesting because it would be a perfect fit for my Pen F, but then I'm very content with the 1.8/17 mm that came with it, and carrying around two other lenses (e.g. the 12 mm and the 45 mm) is not that much of a hassle thanks to their size and weight; but changing lenses can be inconvenient (if only the EZ would be 12-40 like the pro …). The 25 mm prime is a good lens, though, but I wouldn't buy it again because the 17 mm does a very good job as a "universal"/low-light lens and also comes with the MF clutch I really love (same for the 12 mm). I would rather recommend buying the 3.5/30 mm macro instead of the 1.8/25 if someone is into nature and close-up (like me). So you are completely right to have people think more about what they actually need and what niches a lens would fill in their set-up. On the other hand - many MFT lenses are quite affordable, so that experimentation to find out is possible for many people (as long as there are no pro-lenses involved ;-)).

[@seacow2001]

Thank you for the comparison, but from what you showed, I would save my money and get the 45mm f1.8 or even the 75mm f1.8 if I want portrait worthy bokeh. The 25mm f1.8 is not worth it unless it is low light we are talking about, but then again the 17mm f1.8 is more versatile in low light and in door.

[@RobTrek]

I use the 25mm primarily for my videos and rarely for photography. The 45mm & 75mm are awesome! I think the 17mm is a bit too wide and not wide enough at the same time for me. I need to do a photowalk with just the 25mm or 17mm in my bag and get more comfortable using them for stills.

[@seacow2001]

@@RobTrek Thank you for the reply and again for the video. I had this burning question when I saw your comparison so thank you very much! I think my first prime will be the 75mm and my 2nd will maybe be the 17, as when I use the 17, I usually use it for street and daily life captures and the aperture is usually at least 4-5.6 and narrower, not wider.

[@RobTrek]

The 75mm is great. You really need some distance from the subject because the framing is so tight. I think the 17 will be a great daily lens, it's a popular focal length for that sort of stuff.

[@Jormungandr69]

​@@seacow2001 I think the best prime you can buy if you have both kit lenses is the 45mm for portraits. The 90mm equivalent is pretty close to the 80mm full frame lens used by one of my favourite photographers for portraits. A 150mm equivalents seems too much for me if it's meant for portraits, too tight if you are shooting indoors. But if you only have the 12-42 kit lens then the 75mm could suit you better, since you will be able to cover a longer focal distance. That's just my opinion, but most, if not all Olympus lenses are amazing.

[@seacow2001]

@@Jormungandr69 thank you!

[@cristianfuentes69]

Hello Rob, what program do you use to record your screen ... I'm using Bandicam and I do not like it very much ... thanks

[@RobTrek]

Something called Flashback. It's okay, not great. I'm looking into other options. The resolution is not quite as crisp as what I'm seeing on my screen.

[@cristianfuentes69]

@@RobTrek Well, I see you're doing well! Hahaha

[@555ontario]

Hi Rob, great stuff. I've just subscribed to your channel earlier today and tomorrow I get my first Olympus camera. It's an original EM5 (used) along with the 14-42mm and the 40-150mm lenses. I'm learning a lot from your videos and I appreciate your approach. Just wanted to say thanks and soon I hope to work my up to an Olympus grade aficionado.

[@RobTrek]

Thanks, Robert. Appreciate you taking the time to write.

[@maciejtaczynski6940]

Thank you for another very informative video. I might have an opportunity to shoot real estate. What lense do you recommend for real estate photography? I shoot with EM 10 Mark II. Thank you.

[@RobTrek]

I'd go with the 7-14mm pro for a dedicated Real Estate Lens. The 9-18mm will also be a good choice. I personally use the 8mm Fisheye, but don't recommend it if starting out. There are some generic 9mm f/2.8 lenses that will work, but you'd need to manually focus. Just make sure they are rectilinear and not fisheye.

[@maciejtaczynski6940]

@@RobTrek thank you Rob!

[@billtheleg]

Great video thank you

[@RobTrek]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@alanplatt888]

Congratulation on your 2 year KZbin anniversary. I reference your videos a lot.

[@RobTrek]

Thank you and Happy New Year!

[@darrelrobertson8169]

Nice video...thanks, I own both of these lens. The prime lens is nice in low light without a flash or tripod, however, a wider lens works better for indoor gatherings...like a smartphone.

[@RobTrek]

Thanks. Both are great lenses!

[@JoeMaranophotography]

Any reason you didnt go for the Lumix 25mm f1.7? Its cheaper and I call it my "make everything perfect lens" 😁

[@RobTrek]

It's a great lens. Uploading a video on it now!

[@JoeMaranophotography]

@@RobTrek Awesome! I dont know where you find the time!

[@rickvestuto]

What Settings do you have for autofocusing in Video Mode Please? C-AF or what?

[@RobTrek]

C-AF with Face Detect only - not face detect with eye detect.

[@AbbasBinYounas]

@@RobTrek Would Eye Detect make the camera hunt more for focusing in this situation where you're moving around?

[@ralphder1107]

Congratulations with your youtube anniversary.

[@RobTrek]

Thank you and Happy New Year!