The Olympus 100-400mm F5-6.3 offers Micro Four Thirds shooters a whole lot of reach in a hand-holdable lens. We’ve been putting its versatile zoom range to use ever since it was announced last month, and have updated our initial sample gallery with even more images – including Raw conversions. Take a peek at what it can do.
Atomos and Olympus have teamed up to announce the duo is co-developing firmware updates that will enable ProRes RAW footage to be captured on the OM-D E-M1X and OM-D E-M1 Mark III mirrorless cameras when paired with the Atomos Ninja V over HDMI.
This partnership is the latest in many that have seen numerous cameras gain ProRes RAW output over HDMI when recording to an Atomos Ninja V recorder, including the Sigma fp, Fujifilm GFX100 and many others. The announcement doesn’t lay out the video specifications that will be able to be captured, nor a date we can expect the firmware updates to go live, but the press release says we can expect them before the end of 2020.
We’ll be sure to share an update article when the firmware updates go live later this year.
Press release:
Atomos announces ProRes RAW support for Olympus OM-D E-M1X and OM-D E-M1 Mark III mirrorless cameras
September 15, Melbourne, Australia: Atomos is excited to announce co-development with Olympus of RAW recording over HDMI with the OM-D E-M1X and Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III mirrorless cameras. Together these powerful Olympus cameras and the Atomos Ninja V will record Apple ProRes RAW directly from the camera’s sensor.
Olympus users who love the OM-D family for its portability and in-body 5-axis image stabilization will get all the benefits of a ProRes RAW workflow – creative control to adjust the color and look of the video in post-production while extending brightness and shadow detail.
The Ninja V allows users to accurately monitor the RAW signal on its daylight-viewable 5” 1000nit brightness HDR screen. Setup is simple with perfectly tuned color settings applied automatically. Users can then view the image in HDR quality with a choice of HLG and PQ (HDR10) formats. The Ninja V offers touchscreen access to tools like waveforms, 1-1 magnification and focus peaking, allowing users to perfect their shot setup. The Ninja V then records the ProRes RAW data onto a removable AtomX SSDmini or other SSD drive. When shooting is complete the drive is removed and connected to a computer via USB for immediate offload and editing.
Jeromy Young, Atomos CEO, said: “We’re thrilled to work with Olympus and their stunning mirrorless cameras to bring the power of Apple’s ProRes RAW to OM-D users. We can’t wait to see the creativity that results from this partnership”.
ProRes RAW the new standard:
ProRes RAW is now firmly established as the new standard for RAW video capture, with Olympus being the eighth brand to support the format with the OM-D E-M1X and OM-D E-M1 Mark III mirrorless cameras. ProRes RAW combines the visual and workflow benefits of RAW video with the incredible real-time performance of ProRes. The format gives filmmakers enormous latitude when adjusting the look of their images and extending brightness and shadow detail, making it ideal for HDR workflows. Both ProRes RAW, and the higher bandwidth, less compressed ProRes RAW HQ are supported. Manageable file sizes speed up and simplify file transfer, media management, and archiving. ProRes RAW is fully supported in Final Cut Pro X and Adobe Premiere Pro along with a collection of other apps including ASSIMILATE SCRATCH, Colorfront, FilmLight Baselight and Grass Valley Edius.
The firmware update to enable these features is scheduled for winter 2020.
Olympus has introduced several groundbreaking technologies in its cameras over the years, including high-performance multi-axis stabilization, and high-resolution shot modes, which combined multiple exposures to create a single, much larger final image.
The technology is complex, but the idea behind the classic tripod high res shot mode (introduced in the OM-D E-M5 Mark II) is simple: the camera’s sensor is shifted in minute increments across multiple exposures, so that the scene is ‘covered’ by more pixels. Those images are then combined in-camera to create a single, higher resolution photograph.
The Olympus E-M1 Mark III and E-M1X offer two high-res shot modes, ‘Tripod’ and ‘Handheld’
Today’s flagship OM-D E-M1X and E-M1 Mark III include the latest iteration of this feature, alongside a new mode: ‘Handheld high Res Shot’. Handheld High Res Shot mode enables ultra high-resolution images to be captured without the need for a tripod.
In Handheld High Res Shot mode, blur from camera shake is avoided thanks to a powerful in-camera stabilization system, which compensates for any accidental camera movement during this process.
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III and E-M1X feature a powerful inbuilt stabilization system. This system is also used in the cameras High Res Shot modes.
Choosing the right High Res Shot mode
The E-M1 Mark III’s high-res shot modes are available for those times when you want more than the camera’s normal resolution of 20MP. Which of the two modes you choose will depend on the kind of subject you want to capture.
With both the OM-D E-M1 Mark III and E-M1X, the maximum output resolution of 80MP is available in ‘Tripod’ mode, while in ‘Handheld’ it is possible to capture images of up to 50MP.
Tripod mode (max 80MP)
Download Tripod High res shot mode (80MP) sample
Download conventional (20MP) sample
This is a great mode for architecture, interiors and still life or reproduction work – basically, any scene where nothing in your subject is moving. With your camera steady on a tripod, and a stationary scene, you’ll be able to get the maximum resolution out of the system.
In ‘Tripod’ High Res Shot mode, the E-M1 Mark III and E-M1X’s sensor is shifted in tiny increments across multiple exposures. These exposures are automatically combined in-camera to create an 80MP file.
In this mode, your camera shifts the sensor eight times, in increments of one micron, capturing one exposure per adjustment. These images are then combined automatically to create a single 80MP photograph in either JPEG and / or Raw file format.
Use for:
Architecture
Landscape (on a still day)
Interiors
Still life
Macro
Night sky
Handheld mode (max 50MP)
Download Handheld High res shot mode (50MP) sample
Download conventional (20MP) sample
Handheld mode is great for situations where you want more resolution, but you either don’t have a tripod handy, or you want to shoot something where slight movement in your image is unavoidable, like a posed portrait, or landscapes.
In ‘Handheld’ High Res Shot mode, the E-M1 Mark III and E-M1X capture 16 images in quick succession, and combine them to create a 50MP file. The cameras’ powerful inbuilt stabilization system is employed to reduce the risk of shake.
In this mode, the E-M1 Mark III captures 16 exposures very rapidly, totaling 320MP of data, and combines them to create a single 50MP image. The sensor-based stabilization system does double-duty, turning on and off throughout the sequence of exposures, helping to prevent excessive movement due to motion blur, and analyzing the amount of camera movement that occurs during the sequence. The camera uses this information to automatically align the images for the final image and clone out any blurred areas.
If too much motion is detected, the camera will flash a warning to let you know.
Use for:
Landscapes
Portraits (static)
General photography at wide / medium focal lengths
Any situation where a tripod isn’t practical / allowed
Tips for using High Res Shot modes
With the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III and E-M1X it is possible to hand-hold exposures down to four seconds*. Used in combination with Handheld High Res Shot mode, this makes it possible to capture long exposure nighttime photographs.
For best results with Handheld High Res Shot mode, shoot at wide and medium focal lengths, where the image stabilization system of the OM-D E-M1 Mark III and E-M1X is most effective.
Because it combines 16 exposures, Handheld High Res Shot mode also cancels out a lot of noise. Try switching to handheld High Res mode in low light situations for better image quality at high ISO settings.
When shooting in High Res Shot mode, avoid shooting at very wide apertures, especially for scenes with out of focus objects in the foreground. You’ll get best results at smaller apertures, where more of your scene is in focus.
* Exact performance is dependent on lens and focal length
Olympus has announced the macOS version of its OM-D Webcam Beta utility is now available. Like the Windows version, released back in June, the macOS version enables select OM-D cameras to be used as webcams with compatible videoconferencing and streaming software over USB.
The utility is free to download from Olympus’ website. Once installed, the process is as simple as plugging one of the compatible Olympus cameras and selecting the OM-D Webcam Beta as an input in the conferencing or streaming program of your choosing. Below is the limited list of compatible cameras:
OM-D E-M1X
OM-D E-M1 Mark III
OM-D E-M1 Mark II
OM-D E-M1
OM-D E-M5 Mark II
Olympus notes the utility won’t capture audio from your camera, so plan on having another microphone nearby (or just use your computer’s built-in microphone). Olympus also says streaming quality will be lower if there isn’t a memory card inside the camera.
We have contacted Olympus to see if any other cameras will be compatible in the future. You can find out more information and download the utility on Olympus’ website.
The post Olympus Announces the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV, With 20 MP and an AF Boost appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.
Earlier this year, Olympus made news with the reveal that it will be selling off its camera division, yet it seems that the company plans to go full steam ahead (at least for now).
Because Olympus has just unveiled its latest Micro Four Thirds camera model, the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV, a compact, low-cost, travel-ready option for entry-level photographers and successor to the well-received OM-D E-M10 Mark III.
Olympus cameras are known for their small size and limited weight, thanks to the compact dimensions of a Four Thirds sensor. This makes Olympus models a favorite of travel and street photographers, especially when you factor in the size of the lenses (which are some of the most compact options on the market, and will feel positively dainty in your hands).
But the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV takes portability to a new level, coming in at just 0.85 lbs (0.385 kg), which is the lightest of any Olympus mirrorless model to date. It’s perfect for anyone looking to shave off weight from their camera bag, and stays featherlight even when combined with some of Olympus’s longer zoom lenses.
The main drawback to a Micro Four Thirds system is limited resolution, which is why the OM-D E-M10 Mark III only offered a 16 MP sensor. But Olympus has finally decided to give the Mark IV a megapixel boost, up to 20 MP for added detail, which increases both cropping capabilities and printing possibilities, though you should also expect a potential hit to high ISO performance and dynamic range.
Personally, I’d like to see a 24 MP MFT sensor, but this still isn’t a spec offered by Olympus’s higher-end models, so I doubt we’ll see it on a camera like the OM-D E-M10 anytime soon. Plus, 20 MP really is enough for most purposes, including relatively large prints, so there’s not really much worth complaining about.
Moving along, Olympus offers the best in-body image stabilization in the business, which is why you can expect up to 4.5 stops of IBIS on an entry-level model like the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV. This will allow for tack-sharp images at shutter speeds far beyond what would normally be considered possible, as well as smooth video recording (and did I mention that the camera offers 4K?).
As for additional noteworthy specs, the OM-D E-M10 promises improved autofocus over the E-M10 Mark III, thanks to upgraded tracking algorithms, as well as 8.7 fps continuous shooting speeds; also relevant is an interesting flip-down LCD design, which allows you to see previews of images and footage from in front of the camera, but by tilting the LCD below the camera.
Oh, and you get Olympus’s now-standard electronic viewfinder resolution, at 2.36M dots. I didn’t expect anything better (there are only so many upgrades you can make to a camera at a sub-$ 1000 USD price), but Olympus’s EVF game is frustratingly limited, even on its higher-end models, and I’d ideally like to see a resolution boost here.
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV will debut in late September, for a relatively cheap MSRP of $ 699.99 (body only). It is available for preorder here.
Now over to you:
What do you think of Olympus’s latest mirrorless model? Are you impressed? Disappointed? Are there any features that the E-M10 Mark IV is lacking but that you’d like to have seen? Share your thoughts in the comments!
The post Olympus Announces the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV, With 20 MP and an AF Boost appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.
Olympus is expanding its lens offerings to include a new telezoom: the M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm F5.0-6.3 IS. Offering an impressive 200-800mm equivalent range, the lens is dust- and splash-proof and weighs 1120g (2.5lb).
It’s compatible with Olympus’ 1.4x and 2.0x teleconverters and supports focus stacking with newer OM-D bodies. Minimum focus distance is 1.3m (4.3ft) through the entire zoom range. The 100-400mm accepts 72mm filters and uses the company’s ZERO (Zuiko Extra-low Reflection Optical) coating to reduce flare and ghosting. Built-in image stabilization is rated to three stops.
The Olympus 100-400mm F5.0-6.3 IS is scheduled to ship on September 8, 2020 and will sell for $ 1500.
Press release
INTRODUCING THE OLYMPUS M.ZUIKO® DIGITAL ED 100-400mm F5.0-6.3 IS LENS
A Superior Compact, Lightweight Super telephoto Zoom Lens Offering 200-800mm Focal Length (35mm Equivalent)
Center Valley, PA, August 4, 2020 – Olympus® is pleased to announce the M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f5.0-6.3 IS lens, an ultra-compact, lightweight super-telephoto zoom lens that covers a broad telephoto focal length of 200-800mm equivalent1 and is compliant with the Micro Four Thirds® System standard. This lens features the same dustproof and splashproof performance as the M.Zuiko PRO lens series, and when paired with the M.Zuiko Digital 2x Teleconverter MC-20, delivers up to 1600mm equivalent1 super telephoto shooting. This lens offers superior autofocus performance, even handheld, and in-lens image stabilization for the optimal shooting experience.
Compact, Lightweight Design Despite being a 200-800mm equivalent super telephoto zoom lens, the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f5.0-6.3 IS lens is compact and lightweight, with a length of 205.7 mm, a weight of 1,120 g6 and a filter diameter of 72 mm. The M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f5.0-6.3 IS lens is capable of 200-800mm equivalent1 telephoto shooting on its own, which can be further extended when paired with the optional (sold separately) M.Zuiko Digital 1.4x Teleconverter MC-14 or the M.Zuiko Digital 2x Teleconverter MC-20, for up to 1600mm equivalent1, making it possible to zoom in close on subjects that are difficult to approach, such as birds and wildlife, and delivering flattening effects for shooting that is unique to a super telephoto lens. The closest focusing distance across the entire zoom range is 1.3m and the maximum image magnification is 0.57x1, allowing superb telemacro performance when photographing small subjects such as insects and flowers. Focus Stacking2 is also supported. This feature captures multiple shots at different focal positions and automatically composites a single photo with a large depth of field that is in focus from the foreground to background.
Focal length 35mm equivalent
Aperture value
Max Image Magnification 35mm equivalent
M. Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm F5.0-6.3 IS
200-800mm (100-400mm)
F5.0-F6.3
X0.57 (X0.29)
With 1.4x Teleconverter MC-14
280mm-1,120mm (140mm-560mm)
F7.1-F9.0
X0.81 (X0.4)
With 2.0x Teleconverter MC-20
400mm-1600mm (200mm-800mm)
F10-F13
X1.15 (X0.57)
Superb Performance The optical system of the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f5.0-6.3 IS lens features a combination of four ED lenses3 for suppressing color bleeding, two Super HR lenses4, and two HR lenses5 for bright, clear depictive performance to the edges of the image across the entire zoom range. ZERO (Zuiko Extra-low Reflection Optical) Coating is used to reduce ghosting and flaring, for clear image quality, even in poor, backlit conditions. Extensive hermetic sealing on the entire lens barrel delivers the same high level of dustproof and splashproof performance as the M.Zuiko PRO series for peace of mind when shooting in any environment.
Superior Autofocus A rear focus system is employed to drive this lightweight focusing lens, for fast, high-precision autofocus performance. This lens is also equipped with four functional switches, designed to support handheld shooting, including a Focus Limiter switch for AF operation selection, ranging between three levels, according to the focusing distance, allowing for quick focusing and comfortable shooting, even in the super telephoto range. In-lens image stabilization on/off delivers stable handheld super telephoto shooting, an AF/MF switch and a zoom locking switch.
Pricing, Availability & Specifications The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400 f5.0-6.3 IS lens will be available for $ 1,499.99 (U.S.)/$ 2,199.99 (CAD). To pre-order, visit a participating local authorized retailer, or www.getolympus.com. Shipping will begin September 8, 2020. Please visit the website for detailed product specifications: https://www.getolympus.com/lenses/m-zuiko-digital-ed-100-400mm-f5-0-6-3-is.html.
1 35mm equivalent 2 Please see the Olympus website for compatible cameras 3 Extra-low Dispersion lens 4 Super High Refractive Index lens 5 High Refractive Index lens 6 Excluding tripod base plate, lens cap, lens rear cap, and lens hood
Olympus M.Zuiko 100-400mm F5.0-6.3 IS specifications
Olympus’ new M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm F5-6.3 IS has arrived and it adds a versatile piece of kit to the brand’s vast arsenal of lenses. We’ve just started shooting with it and already we’re impressed with the sharpness throughout the zoom range.
We’ll be updating this gallery soon with additional samples (we did not intend to shoot JPEG-only), but in the meantime here’s what you can expect from Olympus’ latest glass when paired with an E-M1 III on a nice sunny day (27°C / 80°F).
See our Olympus 100-400mm F5-6.3 IS sample gallery
Our team from DPReview TV took the new Olympus 100-400mm F5.0-6.3 to the Calgary zoo for a day of telephoto shooting. View our sample gallery to see how the images look.
View the Olympus 100-400mm F5.0-6.3 IS sample gallery
The Olympus 100-400mm f5.0-6.3 IS is a light and compact telephoto zoom for the Micro Four Thirds system. It gets the same weather sealing as Olympus’s Pro lenses, but does it stand up optically? We put it to the test to find out.
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Intro
Compared to the Panasonic 100-400mm
Design and build
Aperture
Sharpness and diffraction
Flare and aberrations
Bokeh
Autofocus
Close focus capabilities
Who's it for?
Sample gallery from this episode
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The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is the entry-level model in the company’s DSLR-style lineup of Micro Four Thirds cameras. It sports a 20MP Four Thirds sensor, in-body image stabilization, flip-down touchscreen with a simple interface and 4K video capture. We took it from the beach to the mountains and everywhere in-between to see how the image quality looks.
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