Why I Don't Like Olympus 17mm F1.8?

[@mattisulanto]

I used to own the Oly 17mm F1.8 and while I never probably loved it, I made some of my best photos on it. Great to see (hear) you speak out again😀 Who knows, maybe we'll get to shoot together again soon...

[@robinwong]

Yeah there is nothing wrong with the lens, it is sharp, small, has fast AF, just something about it that I did not like

[@mattisulanto]

@@robinwong I know what you mean😀

[@nathanmeyer6743]

Gotta say, the Olympus 17 1.8 is my favorite, but never warmed to the 25 1.8 plastic build quality. Personal feeling, both take great photos

[@robinwong]

Build quality aside, the 25mm does render some very beautiful images

[@ThatMicro43Guy]

Hi Robin. Well, this is why I enjoy people like yourself, you are happy to say what you really think, something I always try to do in my videos. On this one I’m the polar opposite to you in the Olympus 17mm f1.8, I adore it, it’s my favourite M43 prime. I’ve said that many times on my channel. So who’s right and who’s wrong? Well, we both are. And that’s good and how it should be. Yes, we can disagree on social media but no trolling or nastiness and I’m really happy at that. I love hearing peoples reasons on why they see something different to me and you always give reasoned arguments. Keep making your videos, keep giving your honest opinions and I’ll keep watching. Sometimes I’ll agree, sometimes I’ll disagree but I’ll always respect and appreciate your views. Brian James

[@RoderickJMacdonald]

Congratulations on 60! This mile stone is particularly remarkable because all the subscribers are interested in photography and are not gearheads.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Roderick, that is very kind of you

[@lephotographinc]

Congratulations on 60,000 subscribers. YOU ABSOLUTELY DESERVE IT. AWESOME CONTENT.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Pascal, YOU ARE AWESOME!

[@Marty4650]

I suppose it really depends on personal preference. I own both the 17mm f/1.8 and 25mm f/1.8 (as well as the 12mm f/2.0. 14mm f/2.5, 45mm f/1.8 and 75mm f/1.8) and the 17mm is my most used prime lens. I hardly ever use my 25mm f/1.8, even though it is also a very good lens. I just find that 17mm is the best focal length for general photography, and covers everything from landscapes, to group portraits, and even can be used for architectural interiors.

[@robinwong]

There is no doubt, 17mm (or 35mm equiv) is a great focal length, I am not denying that. But there is just something off with that particular lens, can't quite quantify it either, so I shall leave it to that.

[@sweeperdave1]

I shot full-frame going back to the 1970 film days and then digital right on up to last year and avoided the 35mm focal length. I also shot APS-C and avoided 20mm (35mm equivalent full-frame). I just didn't like the perspective for my style of shooting. Then I started using the 17mm f/1.8 on my Olympus MFT cameras and have a great relationship with it. It's the lens I have on when I'm shooting early morning and evening travel images. Low-light performance is decent and the perspective has me wondering why I avoided the focal length on larger sensor cameras. I think if someone forced me to choose one prime lens for a travel shoot on my Olympus cameras, I'd pick the 17mm - I enjoy using it that much.

[@TheNarrowbandChannel]

Good to see Robinspeaks is back. I liked it. Especially since I can just listen to it at work.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Ben, hope you did not fall asleep listening!

[@TheNarrowbandChannel]

@@robinwong No I never do. Your talks are Great.

[@domtomazo]

My "perfect trio" for travel is the three premium Olympus lenses -> 12/2, 17/1.8 and 75/1.8. I like the 17/1.8 a alot, but that is also my favorite allround focal length. My main issue is that bokeh can be a bit ugly sometimes, i have noticed it especially indoor shooting across a table (quite close focusing). It can get a "double bokeh" that can make you a bit dizzy looking too much at it :)

[@davebellamy4867]

Interesting the big gap between the 17 and the 75. No 25 or 45. I think sometimes there's just the feel whether you like a lens or not and you can set the composition for the lens.

[@domtomazo]

@@davebellamy4867 The trio I mentioned has that superior and matching build quality, so they fit together nicely. I like to work with maximum of three lenses for any given situation too, making it more manageable both in physical gear but also in choosing the lens for the situation. I also have the 45/1.8 and that is a no-brainer for the price and size in micro four thirds, but does not feel as special. It comes with me often on my bicycle rides though, keeping size and weight down. I would like to try the 45/1.2 as I do a lot of portraits, but have other systems for that :)

[@robinwong]

THat's interesting, I never had any issue with 17mm's bokeh... I find it OK but nothing to write home about either

[@jasonwrites9186]

What I love about this video, is that it's true: sometimes you just have a feeling about something, and you can't exactly quantify it. :) I'm on the other side of the coin. I left the Olympus system for Sony, and while I use Sony for professional work, and while 35mm (FF) isn't my fav focal length at all, there's something about the 17 1.8 that I just love. I love it so much that I re-bought BOTH the lens and the damn EM10 Mark IV, just so I could use it again. lol. Just like how Robin doesn't connect with that specific lens, I really connect with it - and I certainly can't explain why. :)

[@davebellamy4867]

I really like it! Tiny. Completely in the spirit of micro four thirds. All metal except for the glass🤣. Great build quality. Manual focus clutch. Great look. Very discreet. Great feel on the camera, especially the smaller bodies. Useful focal length.

[@Lordvader330]

Ok as for returns or repairs for used equipment MPB offers a fantastic return replacement service if there is an issue. I got a 7-14 from them. It had an issue they send me another and also refunded me the difference in the quality rating. It was like new and the new one was listed as excellent. So used with MPB is the best.

[@davebellamy4867]

I find their descriptions are a bit hit and miss but it's no hassle if you don't like what they send because you can send it back in the UK at their cost (unlike with Robin in Malaysia!) I had their top priced EM1 Mk1 a few weeks ago and was really disappointed to find significant viewfinder damage. I decided to wait and get an EM1 Mark ii but they have 50 of those for sale right now. Too much choice, so I left it!

[@robinwong]

Good for you. No such thing here in Malaysia

[@davebellamy4867]

One thing about focal lengths Robin. It's useful to start with the kit zoom lens if on a budget, even though they break often, so get it bundled with the camera. I found with the 14-42 EZ that I was OFTEN shooting photos with the focal length indicaor between 22 and 24 mm. It can be a great indictor of what focal lengths and fields of view are preferred for an individual user. However, of course, no-one makes a 23mm prime lens!😅😂🤣 It's also useful that the focal length data is retained with the picture for reference. Something we probably take for granted now!

[@robinwong]

I have always said kit lenses are awesome!

[@indradinho88]

@davebellamy4867 right now 23mm is actually available although it's manual focus only. I have a TTartisan 23mm f1.4 on my GH5.

[@seth094978]

Yeah it's such a shame that Sigma doesn't offer the 23/1.4 in mft mount. They've clearly given up on m4/3 considering that they make the 16, 30 and 56 for us, but didn't put in the time to develop a version of the 23 for us, even though the focal length makes so much sense.

[@seth094978]

My solution given the lack of 23mm options has been to use the 20/1.7 from Panny. It basically lives on my camera now. I found with the increased sharpness relative to that lackluster 14-42 that I didn't mind just planning on cropping in a tad. It gives me more flexibility and room for error than when framing up shots at 22-23.

[@Lordvader330]

Color is so key my friend. I still shoot my Olympus e-5 because that sensor has amazing color! This is a great video. Please fill your rainy days with more of this. I could use a video on the FL700wr set up.

[@robinwong]

I don't have the FL-700 WR though. The freaking problem is, my old Olympus flash units (FL-50R) refuse to die! And they are more than powerful enough to do what I do for my jobs.

[@mikejankowski6321]

Great post. The variety of topics was nice, and you did justice to all the questions and comments. I particularly like seeing the black wall again, nicely lit and with your contrasting red shirt. Very cool.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Mike, I do my best to answer the questions! The black wall will return from time to time!

[@Jonathan-hu3lk]

My main issue with this lens is the close focusing distance isn’t close enough. However, the majority of my photos over the last few years have been taken with this lens, so clearly it has served me well. Although, I recently picked up a very cheap, secondhand eos m5 and 22mm f2 lens. Now it’s a massive shame Canon won’t be making anymore eos m lenses, or bodies because I freaking love this lens. It’s small, sharp, quick to focus, great close focusing distance and just blooming fantastic. I’d say superior to the Olympus 17mm f1.8 (both lenses being roughly equivalent to 35mm on full frame)

[@DeMorcan]

I had the same reaction to the 17/1.8. Just never liked the look. And now the 17/1.2 is my favorite lens. I like that you use and discuss different cameras. I had a job photographing basketball that I could not do with m43, so I rented then bought a Canon. I do not believe there is a best camera. I do believe there is a best camera for me and how I want to use it for the photos I want to take. And that might change from day to say as I want to do something else. I did use your affiliate link to buy one of the new Olympus lenses you reviewed. (I can't always buy coffee). Not sure why anyone would think you had quit Olympus.

[@robinwong]

Thanks so so much for using the affiliate links, and you don't have to buy coffee or do anything else, I appreciate you just being here! Oh yes the 17mm F1.2 is absolutely fantastic

[@jaher06]

Congratulations! I follow you from Spain with the translator activated and even though you speak very fast, I prefer it that way since the duration of the video is perfect for me. Cheers!

[@robinwong]

Thanks, appreciate that! I try not to make long videos, I also don't have that much time!

[@valdiskrebs566]

Yes, keep functioning cameras till they die! I tried both the 15mm and 17mm on my Pen-F and found the 15mm was NOT better… did not pixel peep… so I kept the 17mm. Like the zone focus ability of the 17mm.

[@robinwong]

No worries, use what works for you. 15mm cannot replace 17mm because they are both at different focal lengths.

[@ontah5716]

I owned 17mm 1.8 too, i do feel the same, as you said the reason for the 'flatness' may be due to too many 'lens correction'. There is a theory of why some lenses lack '3D pop', is because of modern lenses have too many optical correction elements, i.e., generally with 9 elements and above will start to produce visibly flatter images.

[@idenelf11]

I use the 17 f1.8 for live streaming but I can't say I use it for taking pictures much. I like the lens enough but for photos I generally will take my Panasonic 25mm f1.7.

[@davebellamy4867]

How is your Panasonic 25mm? Mine is a bit mushy wide open. Can't say exactly how, just sharp edges look a bit untidy. I wondered if I had damaged the lens but I can't find a problem. I don't remember how it was from new because I was new to M43 then and it was ages ago. It's still sharp stopped down, especially by f/4. Very crisp there.

[@idenelf11]

@@davebellamy4867 I tend to keep my subject aka one of my cats in the middle to avoid it so I can't say I have even checked the edges. If I remember after work today I'll take a photo of anything and post it somewhere so you can get a look at it.

[@robinwong]

I'd take the 25mm too

[@JensMHA]

I used the 17mm quite extensively, but tried the PL15mm and that blew the Oly out of the water. The PL just have something. Bought another Oly 17 last month, the f:2.8 just because "Pancake", havent used it much but I will give it a month on a small body of some sort. 🙂

[@robinwong]

I also have the 17mm F2.8, what I forgot to mention was I actually prefered the output from the 17mm pancake, though it was less sharp and has slower AF

[@davebellamy4867]

12:15 Wow that was a surprise! Cheers for answering my question! Plus Ginge made an appearance on your channel.😊😊😊 Congratulations on 60k subscribers!

[@robinwong]

Thanks! NO worries, I try to get to as many questions as I can. I receive hundreds a day sometimes.

[@asterix908]

I think the thing that bothers you is the distortion and correction that happens at such small focal lengths. There's less of that in an APS-C, because the lens is 23-24mm (resulting in 35mm eq) and less correction is needed. I love the results of 17mm f1.8. The reason I like it over Fuji X100 is 1. Better Bokeh from f1.8. 2. improved usability of Olympus, better focusing 3. In camera Stabilization, so I never have to use flash.

[@alanmcdonald7390]

Your honest opinion doesn't shake my love of the Olympus 17/1.8. I recognise a lot of what you say about it. Especially the way it renders perspective sometimes. But. With my genre and set up, it really works for me. It's my daily driver.

[@davidblack2632]

I do love my 17/1.8 but it really doesn't get used much since buying the 17/1.2.

[@robinwong]

The 17mm F1.2 is much better

[@greydog727]

To me, compared to the 15mm Panasonic, the 17mm is just not sharp. Maybe I have a bad one. It prefer the angle of the 17, but it is so fudgy, I just can't use it.

[@hnahler]

I was really curious when I saw the title. The 17mm/1.8 is my favourite fixed focus lens. I was wondering, why does Robin not like it? I mostly use it on my original E-M1 as a compact walk-around setup. Now, I have to check in LrC, how many of my 3* and higher images have I taken with that lens. Do I just shoot with it but don’t have many keepers? - Your comments made me curious.

[@robinwong]

We all have our own preferences, if the 17mm F1.8 works for you, then no worries!

[@EstelonAgarwaen]

This lens is my fav street lens, on my gx80 it just delivers!

[@chirag4]

Robin, you just missed a trick, you could have made the video 17:18 long it would have read like 17 1.8 (Olympus lens spec)

[@chirag4]

though, TTArtisan 17mm f/1.4 does exist for MFT

[@robinwong]

Hah, good one. Too late now!

[@scs6757]

Hi Robin, I'm a recent subscriber. A couple years ago I switched from Nikon DSLR to Sony Mirrorless. I'm not a pro, but as a fairly competent amateur enthusiast I'm also interested in all cameras like you are. I really enjoy hearing and seeing your perspectives, and your love of photography really shows in your videos. I also enjoy getting exposure to the culture and people of Malaysia through your content from halfway around the world in the Midwest of the USA. Keep up the great work!

[@robinwong]

Welcome to the channel, and glad you liked seeing Malaysian bits and pieces here! Do come visit if you have a chance

[@mmma4096]

I have a Olympus 17mm f1/8 in silver and the lens have beautiful built design, engraved letters on the barrel and silver color looks very smooth, Panasonic Leica 15mm f1/7 is not even close in built quality design, some letters are painted and the lens in black painted scratched easy. People talked a lot about sharpness. I don't see a substantial difference between Panasonic Leica and Olympus, but for me both looks very close.

[@keithbryancwong1837]

Have you considered using 2 different systems for the same shoot? For e.g. use m4/3 when you need to use beyond 70mm ff equivalent. Then use APSC/ff when you need wide angle shots. That way you can get the best of both worlds. Nowadays, with so many 3rd party lens manufacturers, prices have come down a lot for ff/apsc lenses. E.g Sigma 18-50 f2.8 weighs 290g and is around usd500 give or take. I myself am considering adding a used m4/3 camera for lenses beyond 70mm ff equivalent.

[@danielcorry4136]

I do this sometimes. Wider shots with Fujifilm and longer shots with Olympus.

[@bkaustav]

If strictly talking about primes, I have a very special feeling for 45mm f1.8. with 17mm f1.8, it's kind of hit or miss.,, recently added sigma 30mm f1.4 .. Little odd focal length but amazing image quality... @Robin... I would love to get hold the ,75 mm one day....

[@robinwong]

You will love the 75mm for sure, just make sure you have some use for it, that is not a popularly used focal length

[@philipcarter6075]

I had a suspicion I agreed about this lens so did a direct comparison with my 17/1.2. Mostly indistinguishable but there were strange areas in the 17/1.8 that were fuzzy, but not due to focussing. I think the 17/1.2 is worth the extra weight for giving more pleasing results, but most of the time my 8-25 copes fine with this focal length.

[@dunnymonster]

Congratulations on you reaching 60K subs. Well deserved Robin 👍

[@robinwong]

Thanks!

[@NightShooter87]

I've shot with quite a few cameras, but predominantly Nikon. I agree with you about the images, they look under exposed and washed out, then the auto focus is a joke. I can get better out of an ordinary compact camera. Love your channel and you come across as a real genuine chap.

[@ulflundh5813]

Tank you🙏🏼 I thought i was alone in the world not like that lens. I had it for a ear. As you say i can’t say why, it felt like a sheep lens but i couldn’t se why when i analyse the photo. For some years ago i had Canon 7D mkll and i had the same problem with Tamron 16-300mm. Now i have many Oly lenses and cameras.

[@robinwong]

Yeah there is definitely something off with the 17mm lens

[@25palex]

because of it i have 15mm f1.7 from pano leica. great video

[@robinwong]

Thanks Alex, I love that lens

[@alanneilson6811]

I like the 17mm f1.8 almost lives on my Pen F either that or the F2 12mm but as you say each to their own. I do agree with you about the canon f2 35mm I really liked that on my 5D MK2. Congratulations on the 60K keep doing what you do Robin.

[@MichaelGerrard]

I have the Oly 17mm f1.8, I like it. My only gripe is that I get lens flare on it easily.

[@robinwong]

Yeah flare can be an issue

[@Kopetefish]

To me the 17mm F1.8 is an almost perfect MFT lens except for the lack of weather sealing. The size, build quality (MF clutch!) and image quality are pretty good. I just wish they would give us a 20mm F2 or even F2.8 that is the same size as the 17mm.

[@Tudor_Mateescu]

So true!!!

[@geofff6671]

Would love an Oly 20 f1.8 built like the 17 f1.8, with the sharpness of the Panasonic 20 f1.7. Though the Panasonic 20 f1.7 remains a good option.

[@robinwong]

I think the priority now is not to release another 20mm so quickly after their F1.4 PRO lens. I don't think the 17mm is perfect, it has some flaws too. It is a very good lens and I can see why a lot of people like it. But to me it just seems "off"

[@Retset]

@@geofff6671 I love my Panny 20 f1.7! Yes, the focus is a touch slow and noisy but great quality for very little weight - a lovely walkabout lens.

[@lenaickdaniel8262]

I felt the same with leica 15mm 1.7, nothing bad to say about it but I always get flat image. On the contrary I use a lot my pentax 31mm on FF. More character and you can have some 3D look at big aperture. Not talking about bokeh, something more subtle that 20mm and less MFT lenses can't realize...

[@kazzi_]

I own it and I also don't like it, although it's my widest lens in m4/3... :D I'd change it for PanaLeica 15/1.7 any time.

[@robinwong]

Same here

[@artjohnson01]

Agree. I already have the PL15mm lens. Why would I even consider the 17mm?

[@giuseppepetenzi]

I prefer the Panaleica 15mm f1.7 ASPH, my first m4/3 lens ever!

[@chanmyasoe]

Oh no 17mm is my favourite travel lens 😁

[@davebellamy4867]

Just keep using it. It's gorgeous. However, it's not really to Robin's taste and that's OK. It osxto minecin terms of use and balance but I've not had any teal killer images with it. Perhaps because I'm not a great photographer!

[@robinwong]

Nothing wrong having it as a favourite. Use what works for you.

[@michaelatlas8072]

I briefly bought a 17/1.8 but didn't vibe with it so returned it in favor of a 17/1.2 which is my favorite lens.

[@Arcade1959]

My opinion: This is my favorite lens. I find it very versatile, but I admit that it took me a while to get used to it. When I go on a photo trip, I always have my 12mm 2:0 in my pocket.

[@LyndonPatrickSmith]

I like size, construction, and clutch-focus on the Oly 17 1.8. It’s a useful focal length and I personally wouldn’t sell it. Having said that, few lens/sensor combinations provide the elusive “3D pop” micro contrast in the right light, and admittedly I haven’t seen that from this lens on any camera body.

[@JeffCM1]

This is my favourite lens. I even got the Panasonic equivalent (which disappeared from my house) but I preferred the Olympus. Mind you, I haven't tried the 45mm or other primes.

[@kevinseddon6860]

Congrats on 60k Robin, been following you for years and still love the content..

[@robinwong]

Thanks Kevin, appreciate that.

[@raytbrown2]

Totally understood. I have bought and returned the lens 3 times -- each time thinking I was crazy on both sides of the transaction. Got the 1.2 version and love it; but it's too big. I really wish the 1.8 was what I could be happy about; but I'm just not.

[@nikolabliznakov]

I was just browsing trough some Oly 17mm f1.8 sample images and I think I understand what is off with this lens. It's missing the famous 3D pop! The micro contrast with this lens is non existent and that's why the images look "flat". It's such a shame, because this lens looks gorgeous and I was hoping it will be my one and only M/43 lens.

[@fabscams4136]

Congratulations! Been a subscriber since you had about 20k! I also 100% agree with you on the Olympus 17mm - I used to own it but I switched to the Leica 15mm f1.7 - the focal length just never agreed with me.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Fabs for staying, appreciate that! Yeah I love the Panasonic 15mm!

[@davebellamy4867]

10:16 Great reply! Reality check!😅😂🤣

[@c.augustin]

Funny, I bought the 17mm F1.8 with my Pen F as a kit, and I was quite pleased with the results (and the handling is really nice). For me it is about the focal length that I don't like that much, but there might be something else. I have to say that the 25mm F1.8 is much more to my liking, together with the 45mm F1.8, so your assessment sounds somewhat right. With the 12mm F2 I'm a bit torn, similar to the 17mm F1.8 - but as all these lenses are so tiny, I don't really mind to keep them … 😁

[@robinwong]

Yeah you are right, they are so small, even the small issues they can be overlooked!

[@greadore]

I have to disagree with you on the 17 mm. I have it and the 25 mm and much prefer the 17mm over the 25 mm and plan on selling the 25 mm and keeping the 17mm.

[@davebellamy4867]

It's good to get different views. Glad it's just a matter of personal taste. I much prefer the 17 to my Lumix 25 which feels a bit plasticky (because it's plastic! Duh!🤣😂😅) in terms of ferl and confidence and because I saw some yukky smudginess on the 25 wide open. I've looked to see if there is some damage to the edge of the lens because it's really sharp stopped down. Still it gave me a doubt about that 25 and actually the price of the M. Zuiko 25 has come down a lot lately so I'm tempted but I now have the 12-40 f/2.8 anyway and that rocks. The Mark I version - at a clearance price I guess.

[@davebellamy4867]

I think both the Zuiko 17 and 25 f/1.8s look gorgeous on the smaller OMD cameras. I have the 17mm/1.8 and 45mm/1.8 Oly lenses and the 17 has a much nicer feel than the 45, though I love the images from the 45. The 45 and 25 are probably built about the same way. The 17 and 12 have classier build and the 17 has come down in price recently in some places. Unlike everything else!

[@klaustomasini]

Well done, Robin! Congrats! You are doing a fantastic job.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Klaus!

[@christinecoughlan4699]

THANK YOU Robin 🌺.

[@robinwong]

Thanks for being here, Chrinstine.

[@Estirvana]

Hearing Robin say he doesn't like Nikon colours hurts me 🥲. But I have to say, it does hurt to say that I felt more confident in my D800's autofocus (and E-M1II) over the first Z series gen.

[@robinwong]

D800 has great AF system! Definitely still delivering well today. But hey, colors are subjective. Good news is, you can adjust to taste in post-processing.

[@davebellamy4867]

In my view it's basically a perfect match for the OMD EM10 mark ii and the other small EM models. In terms of look and balance at least. I use it as a standard and dumped my 14-42 EZ zoom because they keep breaking.😳😱🤬😡

[@anthonygarbo8114]

Great video and content as always. . . . thanks for your input and recommendations.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Anthony, glad you found them useful

[@laurent5926]

I agree. I do have this lens and I don’t like the results. The 35mm field of view is a compromise. Also, my sample is not as good as the others Zuiko with significant chromatic aberration.

[@markphillips7449]

Hi Robin. Hopefully you can answer a question around how to download Raw files to an Apple MacBook Air? Will look forward to your insight. Mark P.

[@robinwong]

You can do so by using the USB cable from camera to your computer, or using a card reader.

[@StrangelyIronic]

For primes I have a 15mm PanaLeica, 20mm Pana-cake, 25mm PanaLeica II, and 42.5 PanaLeica. I got those Leicas from a friend second hand that jumped ship to APS-C with an A6600 to still have some of the crop factor for some wildlife and keeping the body style both of us like (TBH I use the aging A6000 a ton and am tempted to get an A6500) while moving the Sony mount. 40mm is generally about as wide as I want to go TBH, the 30mm equivalent of the 15mm Leica works for me when it comes to tight streets, but for that the black sheep in the room is the PanaLeica 12-60 that I pretty much always have on my GX8. Sure, it's not as fast as the primes, but I rarely go below f4 anyway so the flexibility it offers makes up for the lack in speed most of the time. I also usually have a GX85 with the Leica 25mm and an Olympus E-P5 and 15mm Leica in my bag. I'm still waiting on a true successor the tank that is the GX8, but I know that ship has long since sailed and there probably will never be a GX8 Mark II with the G9 internals or be the photography counterpart to the GH6 like the G9 was to the GH5.

[@rl4bzs]

Same as you, Robin, I can’t tell why I dislike the 17/1.8 so much. That said, some people take great pictures with it, so it’s hard to tell what’s going on.

[@sirbarry22]

Robin you talked me into taking the 17mm to Vegas next week, I haven't used it for awhile, I really liked the 17 and the 45 for travel lenses, but haven't used it since I got 12 to 45mm 2.8 pro, but will try it again next week. Good to hear from you again.

[@jonnyli12]

Sensor size it's the problem. With a wide focal length like that in m43, the photos looks like they were taken on a sony cybershot . It's not so easy to shot with a m43 and get instant satisfaction with some focal lengths.

[@Lucidexplore]

Robin I think you had a Nikon Z5, did you like the colors of that camera? and did it defer alot from Em1-MkII/3? and how about the auto-focus of both systems?

[@JavierGutierrez-yl2fs]

Did you try lumix full frame cameras? They are excellent for photography with very fast and accurate autofocus. For video the af-c modus is not the best, but one has to learn how tu use the area autofocus properly and it is ok. The size of the lumix S5 is as big as the em1 mark 3. And the 1.8 primes (24, 35, 50 and 85) are light, sharp and much smaller than the 1.2 primes of Olympus.

[@robinwong]

The video AF is almost useless. Don't even get me started on Panasonic colors. They are possibly worse than Nikon. And no their primes are crazy expensive!

[@kimc5750]

Congratulations on your 60,000. I like the 17mm f/1.8, especially om my E-P5, but I have never taken to the 12-40 f2.8, many love it. Its all personal preference. Fun video! I am a long time Nikon user, but I cannot take to the Z series.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Kim, appreciate that. The 12-40mm lens is a versatile, do it all lens. Prime lenses like 17mm has more character

[@Acomyztly]

Hello Robin, congratulations! I have the two lens, the 15mm f1.7 pana-leica and the 17mm f1.8 Olympus. I use them for streetphotography with my loved Pen F for a couple of years and I come to the same conclusion, for some reason I like more the photographies taken with de 15mm, but not only compared with the Olympus 17mm, also with the 12mm. I know, there are not the same focal lenght, but for some reason I do not like the 24mm equivalent focal lenght, I prefer 30mm of the Pana-leica (in other brands I shot more in 28mm that 35mm).

[@robinwong]

Between 15mm and 17mm, yes I prefer the 15mm too. But I can't compare 12mm to 15mm, the gap is just too huge, there are many situations that I use 12mm which the 15mm is just not wide enough

[@davebellamy4867]

0:58 Your night time minimum temperature has been the same as our day time maximum temperature in England this last day or so.

[@davidthompson8153]

Loved the 17mm f1.8 until I bought the 17mm f1.2 WOW...... great discussion Robin as always.

[@Lordvader330]

I use it for video the most. It’s perfect for that.

[@robinwong]

I find my 15mm F1.7 better for video!

[@ChristineOram]

I bought the 17mm f1.8 despite some negative reports, and have been pleased with it. In general I find the 17mm is a better fit for the 4:3 ratio than 35mm if for 2:3 format on FF. I think it is because the squarer format gives me more vertical coverage (which I prefer) and therefore appears wider than 35mm in the 2:3 format. I don't think it makes much sense that Robin is calling this lens out and says it is not the angle of view that he doesn't like. My view is that reviews do not agree with the commonly stated trope that the Leica 15mm is much better either.

[@2Megapixels]

hello Robin! olympus 17mm f1.8 or sigma 16mm f1.4 , specially for video indoor in the studio ( open at 1.4 )

[@JeevesTCW]

I also like to do minimal work in post processing Robin and personally love the Pana Leica lenses that give great OOC colour and contrast which (for me) aid this approach. Not had any problems with CA on the Pana Leica 15mm on my G9 or GX9.

[@JeevesTCW]

PS Sold the GX9 tho, didnt enjoy the viewfinder, much prefer the Oly EM5 range. Pana need a proper GX8 replacement.

[@obedbrinkman]

Nikon auto focus has improved massively through updates and newer Z models, maybe update your views on the brand, nikon Z is totally underestimated

[@robinwong]

Improved, yes, massively, no.

[@stobz0984]

Congrats on 60K Robin :-) !

[@robinwong]

Thanks!

[@martingreenberg870]

I am a street photographer and use the three classic focal lengths: 28; 35; and 50mm. Have the 25mm lens. Was uncertain as to purchasing the 15 or 17. I was leaning toward the 17mm lens as it is closer to the 35mm FOV. As a result of this video I went with the Panasonic. I’m not sure if one of these lenses is better. I suspect they are more similar than different. I am happy with the Panasonic 15mm lens for my street photography. Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)

[@diegoscopia]

I'm not sure why you feel the images look flat, but the 17mm has a very nice image character, especially wide open. Like you barely have to do any post processing work with the files to get them to look right. For me a flat looking lens would be the 14-42R, just no bite or unique character whatsoever.

[@robinwong]

Compared to Panasonic 15mm, Canon 35mm, or Fuji X100, the images from the Olympus 17mm are flat and "off". And many other people in this comment section also saw the same problem.

[@DannyB-cs9vx]

I just bought a Lumix 20mm 1.7 After watching several videos about both the Olympus 17 amd the Lumix 20. The Olympus costs twice the Lumix, and many prefer the Lumix. The new OM system 20 may be better, but I don't have $700 to find out. I am a hobbyist, so I need to go with the best value. Nobody but myself is going to critique my pictures.

[@davebellamy4867]

0:57 Lots of lightning for you to photograph and try to dodge!😳⛈⛈⛈🌩🌩🌩⚡⚡⚡

[@robinwong]

The cameras are weather-sealed, not lightning proof!

[@craigroethler1495]

17 is great on the Pen. My fave for walking around.

[@carmenfissenden2530]

Robin , this was one of the first lenses I was seriously thinking about getting , but was pulled towards the 25mm 1.8. My ideal focal length for walkabout sits between 45-55 mm in full frame terms. However , I prefer the 55 over the 45mm, so in the absence of a viable 55mm, I settled on a 60mm or in MFT 30mm. We all make choices based on personal choice ad to what we find works for us. It is very much down to trial and error and out of looking at our favourite images it becomes clearer what focal lengths we like most . Our choices have little to do with sharpness or cost , but feel and confidence the lens gives us. Primes are clearly the smart way to go if wishing to travel light , but a zoom can be a lot more versatile if weight and bulky bodies are not an issue . I have used rangefinder cameras with great success, but I preferred SLR for the versatility it offered . Digital cameras are a real benefit and the choice of lenses available has left many of us truly spoilt over those back in the film days . You need to get to know a lot more about how modern cameras are going to produce your jpegs if not shooting raw . Back in film days we had to I understand film and paper relationships and how chemicals worked best for us. I did a lot of commercial work in colour back then , but for personal work and exhibitions I short monochrome . Robin , your thoughts are invaluable and very much appreciated . I have to concur with your analysis and used that information to set up my current camera and made a fine adjustment on that advice for some of my personal fils . Thanks again , Robin .

[@robinwong]

Thanks Carmen for being here and I appreciate your thoughts and glad that you shared your experience. Yeah a lot of things depended on personal biases/preferences, that is very true! We pick and choose what works for us

[@riccardoberetta6040]

For 17 1.8 you can use raw Digger ( with It you see the real raw file without correction )

[@robinwong]

And why would I do that? It makes things a lot worse.

[@teephlelps7172]

Dude, I love your energy. I'm glad I discovered your channel. Thanks!

[@scstudios8]

Nikon never impressed me either. I was trying to leave the Canon 5d2 and I could not. I wore the 5d2 out. It always looked great and was totally natural. I am going into FF from m43 now, and Sony really is the one I want now. Canon would be my choice, but the lens cost is crazy. I think they just allowed 3rd part lenses. If sigma makes a canon 24-70 f2.8 for the mirrorless newer models, maybe I will go with canon.

[@numbersix8919]

Hey Robin, I like your black background -- glad to see it again. PS Thanks for explaining your post-processing! Because your photos are too good!

[@manfredrauchberger4650]

Dear Robin, Love your work. Keep on going. Greetings from Austria!

[@ThePNWRiderWA]

60k is an accomplishment. Congrats !

[@robinwong]

Thank you for your support!

[@jbowmanmusic]

Completely agree on 17mm 1.8. I shot with the original 2.8 pancake for years, then upgraded to the 25mm 1.2. Bought the 17mm 1.8 more recently for a smaller and lighter lens, and like you say, there is something about the images I just don't like. I don't think it is the focal length.

[@TheJopokus]

Congrats on 60! 🎂🍾 Love your blogs!

[@robinwong]

Thanks so much

[@davebellamy4867]

One of these talking videos a month or every few weeks would be great, Robin!

[@robinwong]

Thanks. I'd go out when it does not rain so much

[@JeffBourke]

Congratulations. This channel is the best.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Jeff, appreciate that

[@robertfrank9168]

I traded the Oly 17/1.8 with the Pana 20/1.7 which is my favorite prime lens. Could only be topped with the Oly 20/1.4 Pro.

[@dougcooper4917]

Good Video. Thank You For Your Information Robin.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Doug!

[@changelivesimages]

Amazing, i had the exact feeling abt that lens and couldn't put a finger on the actual reason. This is very similar to the leica q2 results that i have problem with, looking back at the raw files, they are very heavily corrected. This could be a problem with modern lens design approach by oly and pana. I see zero correction needed on the fujifilm x100v.

[@RTFM70]

Well done Robin. Great news 👍

[@robinwong]

Thanks Jeff!