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Canon EOS M6 Mark II review: Our favorite Canon mirrorless camera yet

27 Nov

Introduction

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The Canon EOS M6 II is an enthusiast-targeted 32.5MP APS-C mirrorless camera built around the company’s EF-M mount. In many respects it’s a more compact mirrorless variant of the EOS 90D DSLR that was announced simultaneously.

Physically, it closely resembles the original M6 but brings a host of speed and feature upgrades. These include a higher resolution sensor, the ability to capture 4K video and a mode that shoots bursts of Raw files at up to 30 fps. The result is a capable and pleasantly engaging enthusiast camera.

Key features:

32.5MP Dual Pixel AF CMOS sensor
14 fps continuous shooting
30 fps Raw Burst mode (with AF Tracking and pre-shot buffering)
UHD 4K video at 30p and 25p with no crop / full width
3.0″ rear touchscreen flips up by 180° or down by 45°
Optional electronic viewfinder
USB 2.0 port with Type-C connector

Canon says it will add 4K/24p shooting to the M6 II with a firmware update in 2020.

The EOS M6 Mark II is available in a series of kits. The official body-only price is $ 849. Adding the retracting 15-45mm IS STM lens and EVF (pictured) boosts the price to $ 1099, while an 18-150mm IS STM and EVF kit will set you back $ 1349.

What’s new and how it compares

The M6 II brings 4K video and 30 fps Raw bursts. We look at the new features and how it stacks up against its peers.

The M6 II gains some direct controls over its predecessor and features the latest iteration of the Canon menu system. There’s also a good degree of customization available.

The M6 II has a couple of nice improvements over the original version, but it’s the state of the EF-M lens range and the future of the EF mount that change out perspective the most.

The 32.5MP sensor in the M6 II (shared with the EOS 90D) is the first new sensor design from Canon we’ve seen in a while – check out how it performs.

The EOS M6 II has a reliable Dual Pixel autofocus system with eye detect. It’s not quite the best in the business, but it’s not at all bad, either.

With full-width 4K recording and a microphone input, the M6 II looks like a capable little video camera. Find out how it compares with its peers.

The EOS M6 Mark II is one of our favorite APS-C cameras of 2019 – it may not be the very best at any one thing, but it’s very good at many things.

We had the chance to shoot with the M6 Mark II and have some sample images to show what it can do.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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Nikon Z50 vs Canon EOS M6 Mark II: midrange mirrorless comparison

10 Nov

Midrange mirrorless comparison – Nikon’s Z50 versus Canon’s EOS M6 Mark II

Nikon’s Z50 and Canon’s EOS M6 Mark II are both built around APS-C sized sensors, mirrorless lens mounts, come with twin-dial controls and are being launched at similar prices. But as much as they have in common, there are plenty of other aspects separating the two as well.

We’ve gotten a chance to use them both and have a ton of details for you about how they compare, but not just on specs alone. We’ll take a closer look at how well they’re each work for common photographic use cases.

Features

First things first, the Canon comes with noticeably more resolution than the Nikon: in fact, at 32.5MP, the M6 Mark II (along with its DSLR sibling, the EOS 90D) comes with the highest-resolution APS-C sensor we’ve yet seen. The Nikon Z50 instead uses a 20.9MP unit that is closely related to the one in the Nikon D500. This will be plenty of megapixels for most people, but some users may want more; and we’ll have more on that in a bit.

Both cameras have sophisticated on-sensor autofocus systems that offer eye-detection and subject tracking, but they differ greatly in both interface and usability. Most notably, the Z50 has an AF joystick for interacting with your AF point, while the M6 II makes do with merely a touchscreen.

Both capture full-width 4K video and offer fast burst speeds, but further differences like ergonomic design and their respective lens lineups will have a big impact on which option is the right one for you.

Landscape photography

Canon EOS M6 Mark II | Canon EF-M 22mm F2 | ISO 100 | 1/160 sec | F7.1
Photo by Richard Butler

Both cameras tick a fair amount of boxes for landscape shooting, albeit different ones. The more compact EOS M6 II is going to be the easier option to pack into a bag for heading out into the elements, though you may want to add on the optional EVF for shooting in bright light.

However, the Nikon Z50’s claimed weather sealing is probably going to help it stand up to those elements better if you’re expecting inclement weather, and its larger grip, buttons and dials will be more easily operable with gloves. You can top them up with USB should battery life run down while you’re off the grid – and they have similar battery life numbers.

If you like to crop, or you want to make the largest prints you can from an APS-C sensor, the M6 II is your best bet

Based on our testing of cameras with similar sensors, we expect both the Z50 and M6 II to have good dynamic range, so that won’t be a big differentiator. But resolution absolutely will be: 32.5MP is a good amount more than 20.9MP. So if you like to crop, or you want to make the largest prints you can from an APS-C sensor, the M6 II is your best bet here.

But we must also consider lenses: from our initial photos, we’ve only seen one native zoom lens that performs well on the high-res M6 II sensor, and that’s the wide-angle 11-22mm F4.5-5.6. There’s a wide suite of primes for the system now, to be sure (more on those later), but for users who work with a more ‘standard’ zoom range, we think Nikon’s Z50 solution may be best.

Of course, you can always adapt lenses from Canon’s EF-S and EF mount DSLRs onto the M6 II, and Nikon’s Z-mount full-frame lenses and F-mount lenses on the Z50. If you’re willing to put up with the extra bulk and cost, either camera will offer you plenty of options.

Travel

Nikon Z50 | Nikon Z DX 16-50mm F3.5-6.3 | ISO 100 | 1/640 sec | F6.3
Photo by Carey Rose

Both cameras will to be great for travelers, for several reasons. Firstly they’re both reasonably compact and easy to pack. They both offer USB charging (be aware we think the Canon requires USB Power Delivery spec) so you can top up their batteries on-the-go. They each offer solid Wi-Fi connectivity so you can get images onto your phone and onto the web from just about anywhere.

Oh, and we like the pictures out of each of them: even their un-tweaked JPEGs look to offer pleasing color and will be great for quick social posts. And if you do find you want to tweak your files, each allows for user-friendly creative filters as well as more powerful processing of Raw files right on the camera.

For this use, we wouldn’t get too fussed about the standard zooms on either camera – they’re both compact, and the Canon offers good-enough sharpness for web posting. But if you want better low light performance or blurrier backgrounds behind your subjects, we’d recommend the EOS M6 Mark II because it has more native, fast-aperture primes available for reasonable prices.

On the Nikon Z50, you can of course adapt Nikon’s full-frame Z primes, as well as crop-sensor and full-frame Nikon F-mount primes, but that adds a lot of bulk and, potentially, cost. On the M6 II, you have 16mm, 30mm and 56mm F1.4 primes from Sigma as well as Canon’s 22mm F2 and 32mm F1.4, and they’re all available for less than $ 500 US each.

We found the original EOS M6 with Canon’s 22mm prime was a particularly pleasing combination for travel, and we’d expect the same with the Mark II. But it bears mentioning that if you are shooting in a lot of bright light, you’ll want a viewfinder, so if you get your EOS M6 II with the optional unit, don’t forget to bring it along.

Sports and action

Canon EOS M6 Mark II | Canon EF-M 18-150mm F3.5-6.3 | ISO 100 | 1/250 sec | F9
Photo by Carey Rose

Sports and action shooters eyeing either of these cameras will find that they look awfully capable from their specifications. The Nikon Z50 doesn’t shoot quite as fast as the Canon M6 Mark II, topping out at 11fps with autofocus to the Canon’s 14fps. If you want a live view of images between each of your shots, the Nikon drops to 5fps, which is again slower than the Canon’s 7fps.

And all this is ignoring the Canon’s very fast 30 fps Raw Burst mode, which is just as it sounds: the camera shoots a burst of Raw images at 30 fps for around three seconds. The caveats with this feature include a 1.25x crop, as well as the requirement that you ‘unpack’ the burst using Canon’s proprietary software once you download them to your computer, but Canon edges out the Nikon on absolute speed here.

We generally find we prefer a viewfinder to a rear screen when shooting sports and action, and it’s no different with these cameras. The Nikon Z50’s unit is broadly comparable to the EOS M6 II’s detachable unit, so as long as you get the Canon with a kit that includes the EVF-DC2, you won’t be left wanting.

Both cameras comes with adept on-sensor phase detection systems capable of accurately following subjects very well

But burst speeds are meaningless if none of your images are in focus. Luckily, both cameras comes with adept on-sensor phase detection systems capable of accurately following subjects very well, particularly if you choose a ‘zone’ and keep it over your subject on your own. If you want the camera to track your subject for you around the frame, the Nikon requires a series of button clicks to get there , whereas the Canon requires you to change one menu setting, and thereafter, you only need a half-press of the shutter once you find your intended subject.

Lastly, ergonomics bear mentioning. The Nikon’s AF joystick makes moving your AF point a bit easier than the M6 II’s touchscreen (though the latter isn’t bad by any means), and the Nikon’s larger grip will be more comfortable if you’re adapting larger telephoto zooms. But if you opt for each system’s native, lightweight telephoto zooms (meaning Nikon’s DX Z 50-250 F4.5-6.3 or Canon’s EF-M 55-200mm F4.5-6.3), either camera will balance just fine.

Family and moments

Canon EOS M6 Mark II | Canon EF-M 22mm F2 | ISO 100 | 1/320 sec | F3.2
Photo by Richard Butler

To start, just as both cameras’ autofocus systems are capable with sports and action, they’re quite good at focusing on people as well. Both come with reliable eye-detection autofocus, ensuring focus is exactly where you want it. The M6 II has the edge again here: if for some reason it loses track of your subject, or that person turns away, the camera won’t jump to someone else, as the Nikon Z50 will.

Both kit lenses are going to be great for general outdoor shooting, but if you’re out at a fancy candlelit dinner, you’ll want a fast prime lens for the best images, and Canon simply has better options here, as we covered in the ‘Travel’ section.

Image quality on both cameras is generally superb. This means you will rarely have to tweak images before sending them off to your phone, which you can then easily share with the people around you, in the moment.

Without its viewfinder, the M6 II is a bit easier to throw into a bag than the Z50, but once attached, the size difference between the two is less significant. And since both can be USB charged, you can use the same USB Power-Delivery charger you use for your phone to keep them topped up should you run out of power.

Lifestyle and people

Nikon Z50 | Nikon Z 50mm F1.8 S | ISO 100 | 1/4000 sec | F1.8
Photo by Chris Niccolls

While family and moments is primarily about casual outings, this type of photography is for the social media conscious photographer looking to add some panache to a scene with some posing and creative use of depth-of-field.

To summarize, both cameras are capable of great image quality out-of-camera despite their small size, and each have great eye-detection focus (though we prefer generally the Canon’s). Both let you get your images onto the social web quickly, but you can tweak them on the cameras themselves before getting them to your favorite image-sharing app.

As with a few of the previous categories, it really comes down to lenses here. Between Canon’s own primes and now Sigma’s, the EOS M6 Mark II has a pretty extensive range of fast prime lenses that are both appropriately sized and priced for the camera. Nikon’s only two native Z-mount crop-sensor lenses are currently kit zooms, and their slower variable apertures won’t blur backgrounds as well. Add a full-frame Z mount prime, or any F-mount prime and an adapter, and you’re spending more money and adding more size and weight.

Video

These cameras offer comparable video feature sets. They each provide 4K video from the full width of the sensor and have microphone and micro-HDMI ports, but no headphone port to monitor audio. The tilting touchscreens make it easy to shoot from odd angles, but hand-held footage has to rely on in-lens stabilization as neither has a stabilized sensor in the camera body. Our biggest concern was the lack of 24p video recording from the Canon, but the company says it’s adding it in a firmware update in 2020.

The Nikon gives you more flexibility for configuring a separate i (custom) menu for video mode and they both allow you to set up separate button functions when video shooting.

Additionally, both cameras feature face-and-eye-detect autofocus while shooting video, as well as tap-to-track functionality. In all, they’re both solid options for shooting good-quality, casual video.

The wrap

Throughout this article, there are some themes that have emerged. Both of these cameras are really good cameras that are capable of taking stellar images and video. Both cameras can perform very well with capturing fast action as well as photographing human subjects.

They both handle very well, but differently, and this will come down to personal taste for many people. The larger grip of the Z50 lends itself better to larger lenses, which may be welcome if you’re adapting lenses from the company’s other lens mounts. Which brings us to the largest theme so far.

There are currently more native EF-M zooms and primes available than there are for the Z50

It’s true that vast majority of buyers aren’t likely to move too far beyond the kit lenses on either of these cameras, but the EOS M6 II gives you the most cost-effective and size-conscious options to do so, if you ever decide to. There are currently more native EF-M zooms and primes available than there are for the Z50, and native lens options are likely to be a less confusing path to navigate for new users than deciphering adapters, additional mounts, autofocus motor compatibility, and so on.

Of course, it could be argued that buying full frame Z-mount lenses puts you on a full-frame upgrade path on the Nikon – a path that doesn’t exist for the Canon. But the affordability of the EF-M prime lenses means it might be more cost-effective to choose what you need now rather than compromising in anticipation of a switch you might make at some later date.

But what about you? What do you make of these two cameras and how would you use them? Let us know in the comments.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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The Canon 1D X Mark III Will Debut With 20 FPS and Enhanced Autofocus

31 Oct

The post The Canon 1D X Mark III Will Debut With 20 FPS and Enhanced Autofocus appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

Canon-1D-X-Mark-III-debut Just last week, Canon announced the long-awaited 1D X Mark III, a flagship DSLR tailored to action and wildlife photographers. The new camera comes as a successor to the Canon 1D X Mark II, which set the tone for sports photographers everywhere.

But what can you expect from the Canon 1D X Mark III? Is it a camera worth purchasing?

First, the Canon 1D X Mark III is a professional action photographer’s camera. So while it will undoubtedly offer the latest and greatest technology, this will come at a price that most enthusiast photographers will be unwilling to pay. The Canon 1D X Mark II debuted at an MSRP of $ 5999, so you can expect something similar (if not more) for the Canon 1D X Mark III.

That said, for those who can afford it, the Canon 1D X Mark III is looking to be one of the best action cameras money can buy. Let’s check out its specifications:

Specifications

According to the Canon press release, the 1D X Mark III will offer incredible autofocus capabilities. This includes “exceptional precision, reliability, high-performance…and subject tracking.” For any photographer who shoots moving subjects, the Canon 1D X Mark III’s tracking is bound to be better than any previous Canon DSLR.

And these capabilities extend into Live View, where the 1D X Mark III’s Dual Pixel autofocus features 525 AF areas for lightning-fast focusing and accuracy.

Of course, no action camera is complete without a high continuous shooting rate. Here, the Canon 1D X Mark III won’t disappoint; using the optical viewfinder, you can expect up to 16 frames per second of continuous shooting. In Live View, you can shoot up to an incredible 20 frames per second.

Also, the 1D X Mark III promises “more than five times the RAW burst depth of its predecessor,” thanks to a new DIGIC processor and dual CFexpress card slots. Considering the deep buffer of the 1D X Mark II, you can expect extraordinary capabilities that will please any action photographer.

Unfortunately, Canon has not yet announced the sensor details on the Canon 1D X Mark III. We don’t know its resolution (though rumors indicate it may be around 28 megapixels). However, Canon has announced the addition of the HEIF file format, which should allow for better colors and enhanced dynamic range over JPEGs.

Finally, the Canon 1D X Mark III is designed for high-speed transfers and flexibility in the field. The camera features Wi-Fi and Bluetooth LE, as well as a built-in Ethernet connection and an optional wireless file transmitter. This is a nice set of features for pros who need to quickly transfer photos.

There is currently no set release date for the Canon 1D X Mark III. However, you can expect it sometime before mid-2020, and possibly as early as February (if it mirrors the path of the Canon 1D X Mark II, which debuted in February of 2016).

That should give you plenty of time to decide if the camera is right for you.

What do you think about the Canon 1D X Mark III? Does it meet your expectations? Will you be purchasing it? Share your thoughts in the comments!

The post The Canon 1D X Mark III Will Debut With 20 FPS and Enhanced Autofocus appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

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Prime lens update: The Canon EOS M6 Mark II photographs dogs, beer and the big city

26 Oct

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When we first got our hands on the EOS M6 Mark II at Canon’s launch event in Atlanta, we used the 18-150mm F3.5-6.3 kit lens quite a bit – after all, conditions were bright, so we didn’t need super fast apertures, and the zoom reach came in really handy for motorsports photography.

Now that we’re pushing through our full review of the M6 II back in Seattle, we’ve put our two favorite Canon EF-M lenses onto the camera to see how they stack up in front of the all-new 32.5MP sensor. Check out our sample gallery to see for yourself.

See our updated Canon EOS M6 Mark II sample gallery

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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Canon releases ‘Content Creator Kits’ for its 90D, G7X Mark III and M200 cameras

24 Oct

Canon has announced new Content Creator Kits for three of its newest camera systems: the EOS 90D, the PowerShot G7X Mark III and the EOS M200. In addition to the camera (and kit lens, in the case of the EOS 90D and EOS M200), each Content Creator Kit will include a new Canon accessory and a 32GB SanDisk SD card.

For the EOS 90D, the Content Creator Kit will include Canon’s new Stereo Microphone DM-E100, which is powered directly through 90D, negating the need for additional batteries. The PowerShot G7X Mark III and EOS M200, on the other hand, will feature Canon’s new Tripod Grip HG-100TBR, which has built-in storage for Canon’s BR-E1 wireless remote. The new tripod grip swivels 360-degrees and tilts 90-degrees to make vlogging and vertical video easier.

Below is a list from Canon detailing what is included with each of the kits:

EOS 90D Video Creator Kit – For the Advanced Video Creator

– Kit Includes: EOS 90D, EF-S 18-55mm STM lens, Stereo Microphone DM-E100, 32GB SD Card
– Pricing: $ 1,449.00 (MSRP)
– Availability: December 2019

PowerShot G7X Mark III Video Creator Kit – For the Vlogging Enthusiast

– Kit Includes: PowerShot G7 X Mark III kit, Tripod Grip HG-100TBR, additional NB-13L battery, 32GB SD Card
– Pricing: $ 899.99 (MSRP)
– Availability: Late November 2019

EOS M200 Content Creator Kit – For the Social Media Maven

– Kit Includes: EOS M200, EF-M 15-45mm lens kit, Tripod Grip HG-100TBR, 32GB SD Card
– Pricing: $ 649.99 (MSRP)
– Availability: Late November 2019

The Content Creator Kits will be available through authorized Canon retailers for their respective prices. For more information, visit Canon’s online shop.

Canon Serves Up New Content Creator Kits

MELVILLE, N.Y., October 24, 2019 – It’s almost impossible to scroll through your social feeds or visit a website and not encounter a video catching your eye – some online video platforms can see 500 hours of video uploaded every minute¹. With so many platforms for innovative vloggers and content creators to share their work, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, is making it easier for them to produce and distribute quality content with the introduction of creator kits for three of the Company’s newest cameras – EOS 90D, PowerShot G7X Mark III and EOS M200.

Included in each creator kit is a new Canon accessory. Small and mighty, the new Stereo Microphone DM-E100 doesn’t require a battery as it is powered when it’s plugged directly into the microphone jack of the EOS 90D. The new Tripod Grip HG-100TBR includes Wireless Remote BR-E1 that snaps directly into the tripod, providing the ability to release the shutter and start/stop recording video remotely. The grip can rotate 360 degrees for selfies as well as 90 degrees making it ideal for vertical video with both the PowerShot G7 X Mark III and EOS M200.

For more information and the full list of product specifications, visit http://shop.usa.canon.com/

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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Canon aims to please professionals with the EOS-1D X Mark III

24 Oct

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Canon has announced the development of its next flagship DSLR, the EOS-1D X Mark III. Sitting at the top of the company’s EF-mount lineup, the EOS-1D X Mark III will continue to prioritize speed, image quality and durability for the most demanding of professional photographers. We don’t have an enormous number of details just yet, but all signs point to this being a significant update for photographers that use the previous models day in and day out.

It’s no surprise that the heart of the new camera will be an all-new CMOS sensor with Dual Pixel AF and a new Digic processor. That combination will be able to produce not only standard JPEG and Raw files, but also 10-bit HEIF files for a greater tonal range than JPEGs are capable of. The Dual Pixel AF region of the sensor will cover 90% of the frame horizontally and 100% vertically, with 525 AF areas. We don’t yet know the sensor’s resolution, but Canon is touting “incredible low-light shooting capabilities,” so while we’re not anticipating a huge pixel count, you should expect high ISO performance to be very good (the older 1D X II was no slouch).

Canon has also updated the autofocus system used through the optical viewfinder – we don’t know how many AF points there will be, but we’re told that the central AF pixels have “28 times the resolution” of the 1D X II, and the ability to focus accurately in “even brighter and darker conditions than before.” New autofocus algorithms utilize deep learning.

This will be the most video-capable EOS camera Canon has yet released

Also interestingly (and cryptically), Canon is touting a new way to control autofocus points by using the AF-On button. We have no idea what this means, but we’ll bring you more details as they become available.

In terms of speed, the new camera will shoot at 16 fps through the optical viewfinder with autofocus, and 20 fps with AF when in Live View mode, whether you’re using the mechanical or electronic shutter. The camera will come with dual CF Express card slots, and the buffer has been increased by five times compared to its predecessor.

Canon told us that this will be the most video-capable EOS camera they’ve yet released, and we can confirm that it’s able to capture 10-bit, 4:2:2 video footage at up to 4K/60p. They’ve also built in a C-Log profile, to enhance users’ ability to grade the video files in post.

Other minor touches include the addition of backlit buttons, and though it uses the same LP-E19 battery as before, battery life is improved.

Details regarding pricing and availability aren’t yet available.

Press release:

POWERFUL, FASTER AND RUGGED: CANON ANNOUNCES THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE EOS-1D X MARK III CAMERA

MELVILLE, N.Y., October 24, 2019 – Canon U.S.A. Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, today announced that its parent company, Canon Inc. is developing the highly anticipated Canon EOS-1D X Mark III Camera – the successor to the world-renowned and award-winning EOS-1D X Mark II. Ideal for sports and wildlife, the flagship DSLR is being engineered and designed using feedback from the worldwide community of EOS-1D X and EOS-1D X Mark II photographers. Continuing Canon’s rich heritage of creating first-rate optical products, the EOS-1D X Mark III offers an enhanced autofocus system, with dramatically improved still and video image quality and communication. When using this camera, professionals will have the confidence they will get ‘the shot’ and can deliver it at a competitive speed – faster than ever before – ideal for the increasingly fast-paced industry.

“The innovations put forth by the new EOS-1D X Mark III will set the new standard for professional DSLR cameras and further cement Canon’s commitment to its professional photographers,” said Kazuto Ogawa, president and chief operating officer, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “In developing the new camera, Canon listened to extensive user-feedback from professionals out in the field. The result is a camera that has evolved from its predecessor and maintained the overall quality that professional photographers have come to expect from the Canon EOS-1D series.”

Need for Speed

The Canon EOS-1D X Mark III will be blisteringly fast – offering exceptional precision, reliability, high-performance autofocus and subject tracking – providing photographers with a tool that will help to capture the shot they are chasing. The camera’s new autofocus algorithm will improve stability and tracking when using both the Optical Viewfinder and in Live View shooting mode, using Deep Learning Technology and adapting to help facilitate accurate focus tracking for every shot.

When using the optical viewfinder the camera will use a new autofocus sensor, with approximately 28 times the resolution in the center of the EOS-1D X Mark II. Offering the ability to autofocus in even brighter and darker situations than before and with greater precision, the camera will have a range of autofocus capabilities, which will enable the photographer to get their shot. In Live View mode, users will be able to make use of 525 AF areas using the Dual Pixel CMOS AF system will cover approximately 90×100 percent of the image sensor. The camera will support significantly faster frame rates with full AF and AE, using either the optical viewfinder (up to approximately 16fps mechanical shutter) or Live View (up to approximately 20fps mechanical or electronic shutter). Additionally, the camera’s dual CFexpress card slots will enable more than five times the RAW burst depth of its predecessor.

Powered to Dominate

The development of EOS-1D X Mark III is a clear example of Canon’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovative imaging products featuring optically excellent technology. The camera will support an all new, Canon-developed, CMOS sensor and DIGIC processor, that will deliver greater image quality, at even higher ISOs, with the ability to capture stills in 10-bit using the HEIF (High Efficiency Image File) file format. HEIF produces wider dynamic range and greater color representation compared to JPEG. The power of 4K resolution brings stories to life – shoot 4K videos including 4K60p with 10-bit 4:2:2 Canon Log internal recording.

Conveniently Connected

For professionals, content delivery is just as important as image capture – the EOS-1D X Mark III will make it easy, featuring built-in Wi-Fi® and Bluetooth® low-energy connectivity in addition to GPS technology. To keep pace with ever-shortening deadlines, the camera will transfer data at more than twice[i] the speed of the EOS-1D X Mark II when using the built-in Ethernet connection, or the new optional wireless file transmitter – the WFT-E9, which is also compatible with Canon’s recently launched Cinema EOS C500 Mark II camera. Coupled with simpler network set-up the camera will greatly enhance the professional workflow.

A Familiar Feel with Improved Attributes

Existing EOS-1D series users will be familiar and comfortable handling the EOS-1D X Mark III allowing seamless navigation with trusted ergonomics – whilst the magnesium alloy body will offer the durability expected from Canon’s EOS-1D cameras. Professional photographers can trust the same impressive build-quality as the EOS-1D X Mark II – with phenomenal weather-sealing, standing up to harsh conditions, including wind, rain and humidity. With incredible low-light shooting capabilities, the camera will now feature select illuminated buttons that allow for precision operation in challenging, dark and dimly lit conditions.

The camera will also offer a new additional control for selecting AF points, built into the AF-ON button, allowing photographers to change AF points on-the-fly for the best composition – further helping to simplify their work. In addition, dramatically improved battery life – with the same LP-E19 – will allow professionals to shoot for longer periods of time, without having to change batteries, helping reduce the chance of missing a shot.

[i] Transfer speeds may be adversely affected depending on the usage environment.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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The Canon 5D Mark V to Be Produced After All (in 2020)

23 Oct

The post The Canon 5D Mark V to Be Produced After All (in 2020) appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

The Canon 5D Mark V to Be Produced After All (in 2020) Professional DSLRs aren’t dead yet.

As was reported last week, Canon has plans to keep at least one of its DSLR lineups alive:

A photographer’s favorite, the Canon 5D line.

Rumors indicate that the Canon 5D Mark V will likely be announced sometime in 2020, probably at the end of the year.

The Canon 5D Mark IV is a popular choice among professional photographers; it’s particularly praised for its high-ISO capabilities, which blow most other cameras out of the water. But the Canon 5D Mark IV isn’t just a great option for low light shooters. It’s an all-around excellent piece of kit, offering good continuous shooting speeds (7 fps), impressive autofocus capabilities (including Canon’s Dual Pixel autofocusing), a rugged body, and dual card slots.

We can hopefully expect the Canon 5D Mark V to be more of the same, just with some key upgrades. Canon will undoubtedly retain the dual card slots and the rugged camera, though we’ll undoubtedly see expanded high-ISO capabilities and (probably) improved autofocus, not to mention resolution. If we’re lucky, we’ll get increased continuous shooting speeds, though 7 fps is very respectable, especially for a 30+ megapixel camera.

Given the overwhelming interest in mirrorless cameras, we can also expect some cross-pollination between mirrorless and DSLR lineups. While the Canon 1D X Mark III will likely be the first Canon DSLR to feature in-body image stabilization, the Canon 5D Mark V may be the second.

Note that the Canon EOS R II is also rumored to come out around the same time as the Canon 5D Mark V, and will probably have many of the same features. Hopefully, this will include dual card slots, a feature that was sorely missed by professional photographers who considered the Canon EOS R, as well as in-body image stabilization.

So I’d like to ask you:

Which camera would you be more interested in – the Canon 5D Mark V or the Canon EOS R II? And Canon 5D Mark IV users, might you consider switching to mirrorless?

Share your thoughts in the comments!

The post The Canon 5D Mark V to Be Produced After All (in 2020) appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

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Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III sample gallery updated

20 Oct

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Our testing of the Canon G7 X III continues, which means we’ve brought along on plenty of day trips and adventures to get a feel for its performance in a number of situations. Take a look at some of the resulting images while we finish up our testing.

See our updated Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III sample gallery

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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The new Olympus E-M5 Mark III is a mini E-M1 II

19 Oct

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Olympus has announced the OM-D E-M5 Mark III – a more compact camera than its predecessor, which incorporates a lot of technology found previously in the higher-end E-M1 Mark II.

In order to reduce the volume of the camera, Olympus miniaturized several components, most notably the image stabilizer. Despite being smaller, the camera can still reduce shake by up to 5.5 stops on its own, and 6.5 stops with a compatible lens: both of which are a half-stop better than on its predecessor. Olympus also switched to a more compact battery, the BLS-50, while maintaining the same stated battery life numbers as the old BLS-1.

Aside from being smaller, the design of the Mark III isn’t far off from that of its predecessor, with the major changes being adjustments to the top plate, improved weather-sealing (the camera is now IPX1-rated) and a new EVF. The Mark III’s EVF is smaller than on the Mark II, with a magnification of 0.68x equiv. versus 0.74x, though it is OLED rather than LCD, promising a more lifelike, higher-contrast view.

From a technological perspective, the E-M5 III is basically a mini E-M1 II. It uses the same 20MP Four Thirds sensor and 121-point phase + contrast detection AF system, and includes features like a 50MP high-res shot mode, 30 fps burst shooting (10 fps with continuous AF), an anti-flicker mode and UHD/DCI 4K capture. The Mark III also gains additional Art Filters and Bluetooth.

The OM-D E-M5 Mark III will be available in late November in your choice of black and silver bodies. The body is priced at $ 1199, while adding the 14-150mm F4-5.6 II lens brings the cost up to $ 1799. A battery grip, the ECG-5, features a shutter release and control dial and will sell for $ 169.

Read our initial review of the E-M5 III

Press Release

NEW OLYMPUS OM-D® E-M5 MARK III EMPOWERS YOU TO BREAK FREE FROM HEAVY GEAR

A Compact, Lightweight Interchangeable Lens Camera Packed with Advanced Functions Derived from Professional OM-D Models

CENTER VALLEY, Pa., October 17, 2019 —Today, Olympus announces the newest addition to its OM- D lineup, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III. Featuring much of the cutting-edge technology found in the OM-D E-M1 Mark II professional model, this compact, lightweight, weather-sealed camera1 includes a 20 megapixel Live MOS sensor, powerful 5-Axis in-body Image Stabilization with up to 5.5 EV steps of compensation (6.5 EV steps with Sync IS), 30 frames per second sequential shooting, high speed and high precision autofocus capabilities using 121-point all cross-type on-chip phase detection AF, as well as versatile shooting features such as Live Composite and Focus Stacking and advanced features such as Cinema 4K Video and Pro Capture, all packed into a powerfully, portable body. Paired with the superior resolution of Olympus M.Zuiko® lenses, this weather-sealed system is the ultimate travel companion for the on-the-go photography enthusiasts.

Compact, Lightweight, weather-sealed System

Many components of the E-M5 Mark III, including the image stabilization unit, have been miniaturized in an effort to deliver the smallest body possible. Dramatic improvements in power-saving performance make it possible to use the more compact BLS-50 battery to enhance the lightweight, compact design. The compact system size means that users can shoot for long periods of time in locations where tripods cannot be used ensuring no missed photo opportunities. Experience complete system mobility when pairing the E-M5 Mark III with the diverse lineup of high-resolution, lightweight, interchangeable M.Zuiko lenses.

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is equipped with features found in high-end OM-D models, packed in a compact body that is approximately 55% the volume of competitive full-frame mirrorless systems2. It features the highly acclaimed dustproof, splashproof and freezeproof weather-sealed design that Olympus is known for, to allow continuous shooting even in the most severe environmental conditions. The E-M5 Mark III delivers a modern take on the striking, iconic design of the traditional OM system with advanced styling, including a moulded exterior, refined grip and a retooled mode dial. The body also features an updated Custom Mode setting, to recall frequent settings for easy access while shooting. The BLS-50 battery contributes to the compact, lightweight body while offering a power saving design, allowing the same number of shots as its predecessor. The BLS-50 battery captures approximately 310 shots per charge.

Outstanding Image Quality

The OM-D E-M5 Mark III boasts the same 20 Megapixel High-Speed Live MOS Sensor found in the OM-D E-M1 Mark II, offering superior performance, exceptional clarity and speed in all aspects of image capture. Maximizing that performance are the TruePicTM VIII image-processing engine and 5-Axis Image Stabilization unit. When paired with high-resolution M.Zuiko Digital lenses, it is capable of capturing images with minimal noise even at high-sensitivity settings, and delivers high image quality with minimal distortion up to the edges of the shot.

The E-M5 Mark III features Anti-flicker Shooting to help suppress the effect of flickering light sources while using both the mechanical and electronic shutter.

High Speed AF Performance

The OM-D E-M5 Mark III is equipped with 121-point all-cross type On-chip Phase Detection AF for precision focusing, even for fast-moving subjects where focus is difficult, or in low light situations, a staple feature in the E-M1 Mark II. Unlike DSLR cameras, there is no degradation in AF precision when using a fast lens. The E-M5 Mark III offers high precision, high-speed focusing from the maximum aperture setting with all M.Zuiko Digital lenses, regardless of subject patterns. The algorithm has been improved over previous models, preventing focus from unexpected jumping to the background, even in mixed perspective scenes with near and far subjects.

Select from six AF target options, including single, 5-point, 9-point, 25-point, 121-point and small. AF/AE tracking supports 10fps high-speed sequential shooting (silent sequential shooting L) and 30fps with focus and exposure locked after the first frame, for capturing subjects with intense movements. The moving subject tracking algorithm utilizes AF information from both Live View images and recorded images to enable quick tracking of unpredictable subject movement and changes in subject speed. Experience superb AF operability while using the touch pad to move the AF frame while tracking a moving subject. Use the Touch Shutter/Touch AF on the LCD screen to select your area of focus within the frame.

Pair the E-M5 Mark III with M.Zuiko Digital lenses for quiet, fast focusing, using an actuator that enables high-speed, high-precision, quiet lens driving. The high-speed, high-precision AF of the E-M5 Mark III brings out the full potential of the superior focusing available with M.Zuiko Digital lenses.

Compact Image Stabilization Unit

The 5-Axis Image Stabilization device, including the actuator, has been redesigned for the E-M5 Mark III in order to deliver a higher level of stabilization in a smaller package, resulting in a smaller and lighter body. Based on camera shake information obtained from the high-sensitivity gyro sensor and image analysis, the TruePicTM VIII image processor precisely controls the image stabilization unit to provide up to 5.5 shutter speed steps of compensation performance, reducing blur caused by camera shake. Increase that to 6.5 shutter speed steps3 with 5-Axis Sync IS when the OM-D E-M5 Mark III is paired with M.Zuiko Digital lenses equipped with in-lens image stabilization4.

OM-D Movie 4K Video Capture

Record high quality, Cinema 4K video with minimal camera shake, even while shooting handheld. The E- M5 Mark III supports C4K 24p, Full HD 30 fps, All-Intra and Full HD 60p. Information from the On-chip Phase Detection AF sensor is used for optimal focusing when recording video. With this, users can record 4K 30P high-definition video. Combining 5-Axis Image Stabilization with electronic stabilization make it possible to record stable video with minimal camera shake. No special stabilization equipment is required, even during active movement.

Olympus Core Competencies

Olympus interchangeable lens camera systems’ biggest benefit is its amazing mobility, thanks to the compact, lightweight nature of the cameras and powerful image stabilization, combined with an entire lineup of high-resolution and high-performance M.Zuiko lenses–resulting in consistently sharp, high-quality photos and video.

Versatile Shooting Features

Long Exposure Shooting

Long exposure shooting is made easier with several amazing features pioneered by Olympus: Live Composite, Live Bulb and Live View. Live Composite creates a single image from multiple shots by compositing (stacking) them together. This mode combines long-exposure with compositing and is incredibly useful and easy-to-use. Applications for Live Composite vary from star trails, Milky Way, auroras, light painting, light trails, fireworks and so much more. Live Bulb allows the photographer to hold the shutter release to begin the exposure and watch the image build on the LCD screen. Simply release the shutter when you feel the image has reached the exposure of your liking. Live View sends a live image feed from the camera’s sensor to the LCD, allowing the user to compose shots from a variety of angles, with the ability to adjust composition, change exposure and white balance using the LCD screen.

Pro Capture

Pro Capture mode makes it possible to record scenes that are difficult to time at a full pixel count of 20M, such as a bird taking flight. From the moment the shutter button is pressed fully, 14 frames are retroactively recorded and retained, making capturing the perfect shot simple. Up to 30 fps high-speed shooting is available in Pro Capture H. RAW recording is also supported.

Focus Bracketing and Focus Stacking

Focus Bracketing can capture up to 999 shots with a single shutter activation while shifting the focal position slightly between each shot. The amount of focal shift can be selected from 10 levels, and recorded images can be combined into one single, evenly exposed image, using Olympus Workspace V1.1 image editing software. It is possible to create a single image with a depth of field that cannot be obtained simply by stopping down the aperture. Because the aperture is not stopped down too far during shooting, this feature also enables high image quality. The camera is also equipped with Focus Stacking, which automatically composites images on the camera. Eight photos with different focal positions are composited on the camera for a photo with a greater depth of field that is in focus from the foreground to the background.

50MP Tripod High Res Shot

Tripod High Res Shot shifts the image sensor in 0.5-pixel increments while capturing eight sequential shots. These shots are then merged into a single 50MP equivalent high-resolution photo. This feature is perfect for landscape shots, product photography in a studio, and other situations that require ultra-high-resolution images.

Other Features

Large, High-Visibility Viewfinder

This model features an approximate 2.36 million-dot, high-contrast OLED panel for vivid colors and an EVF (electronic viewfinder) optical system for minimal distortion to the edges of the screen. Such a design makes framing more accurate so the user can concentrate on shooting. The long eye point makes it easy to check overall framing, even when wearing glasses.

1/8000 Second High-Speed Mechanical Shutter

The E-M5 Mark III features a high-speed mechanical shutter that operates up to 1/8000 second, making it possible to shoot at a wide aperture setting for defocusing effects even when using a large-diameter lens in bright outdoor conditions.

SCN (Scene) Mode

In SCN mode, simply choose one of six themes and select the photo most like the scene you want to capture to activate optimal settings.

Art Filter

Equipped with 16 Art Filter options, you can capture creative photos using simple controls with the E-M5 Mark III. While checking the filter effect on the LCD monitor, you can create images that are uniquely your own.

Easy Wi-Fi® Connection to Smartphones via Bluetooth®

The E-M5 Mark III is equipped with Wi-Fi compatibility. Bluetooth can be used to automatically connect the camera to a smartphone simply by starting up the Olympus Image Share (OI.Share) smartphone app for transferring recorded images to a smartphone via Wi-Fi. By using the Share Order function, selected images on the camera can be quickly and automatically transferred to your smartphone.

Custom Mode

Register your frequently used camera settings to Custom (C on the mode dial) with the E-M5 Mark III. After being registered, simply set the mode dial to C to instantly activate and shoot using saved settings.

USB Charging

USB charging is available on the E-M5 Mark III for charging the battery on the move, when the camera is not in use.

Available Accessories

ECG-5 Dedicated External Grip (New, Sold Separately)

Compatible ECG-5 dedicated external grip for an expanded, sure grip, equipped with a shutter release and control dial.

Electronic Flash, FL-900R (Sold Separately)

This high-power flash with a maximum guide number of 58 synchronizes high-speed sequential shooting5. It has an angle of illumination of 24-200mm6 and 14-20mm7 when used with the wide panel. It features dustproof, splashproof, and freezeproof performance and can be used with the separately sold FR-WR Wireless Receiver for wireless7 flash firing via radio signal. It can also be used to wirelessly fire the bundled flash FL-LM3.

Electronic Flash, FL-700WR (Sold Separately)

This compact, lightweight electronic flash has a maximum guide number of 42. It delivers stable wireless communication even in bright outdoor locations and when used around obstacles and functions as a commander/receiver. Because it features a dustproof, splashproof and freezeproof construction, it can be used in any type of shooting scene. It can also be used to wirelessly fire the bundled flash FL-LM3.

Macro Flash, STF-8 (Sold Separately)

This macro flash is perfect for using the two heads to produce images with a greater sense of three- dimensional space and has a guide number of 8.5 (2 heads) or 6 (1 head). It features a dustproof, splashproof, freezeproof construction for outdoor use and supports the unique Olympus Focus Stacking feature for photos with a greater level of creativity. Lenses compatible with the bundled ring adapter are M.Zuiko Digital ED 30mm F3.5 Macro, M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro, and M.Zuiko Digital ED 12- 40mm F2.8 PRO.

Large Eyecup, EP-16 (Sold Separately)

This accessory blocks external light making the viewfinder easier to use. By using materials with elastic properties, the eyecup fits all eyes, regardless of whether the user is wearing glasses or not. Support from both the eye area and both arms improve stability for a posture that reduces camera shake.

Remote Cable, RM-CB2 (Sold Separately)

A pin jack-style shutter release cable equipped with a convenient bulb lock for long exposures. The cable is approximately 80 cm long.

Compact Gun Microphone, ME31 (Sold Separately)

A directional gun microphone is useful when recording sounds outdoors such as birds singing. The adoption of machined metal body makes it very sturdy. It can be attached to the hot shoe of the E-M5 Mark III with a commercially available hot shoe mount.

Pricing and Availability

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III will be available in both black and silver in late November. The camera body only will have a suggested retail price of $ 1,199.99 USD and $ 1,499.99 CAD and the camera body with the M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-150mm F4.0-5.6 II lens will have a suggested retail price of $ 1,799.99 USD and $ 2,249.99 CAD8.

1) When paired with a weather-sealed lens.
2) As of October 2019 and when large diameter standard zoom lens is attached.
3) M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm F4.0 IS PRO at a focal distance of f=100mm (35mm equivalent: f=200mm), halfway release image stabilization: Off, frame rate: high speed. CIPA standards compliant on two axes (Yaw and Pitch).
4) M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm F4.0 IS PRO, M.Zuiko Digital ED 300mm F4.0 IS PRO (as of October 17, 2019)
5) Maximum 10 fps at a flash ratio of 1/32.
6) 35mm equivalent.
7) Electronic Flash FL-700WR or Wireless Commander FC-WR must be attached to the hot shoe of the OM-D E-M5 Mark III.
8) Launch offers may apply.

Olympus OM-D E-M5 III specifications

Price
MSRP	$ 1199 (body only), $ 1799 (w/14-150mm lens)
Body type
Body type	SLR-style mirrorless
Body material	Magnesium alloy
Sensor
Max resolution	5184 x 3888
Image ratio w:h	1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
Effective pixels	20 megapixels
Sensor photo detectors	22 megapixels
Sensor size	Four Thirds (17.4 x 13 mm)
Sensor type	CMOS
Processor	TruePic VIII
Color space	sRGB, AdobeRGB
Color filter array	Primary color filter
Image
ISO	Auto, 200-25600, expands to 64-25600
Boosted ISO (minimum)	64
White balance presets	7
Custom white balance	Yes (4 slots)
Image stabilization	Sensor-shift
Image stabilization notes	5-axis
CIPA image stabilization rating	6.5 stop(s)
Uncompressed format	RAW
JPEG quality levels	Superfine, fine, normal, basic
File format	JPEG (Exif v2.31) Raw (Olympus ORF, 14-bit)
Optics & Focus
Autofocus	Contrast Detect (sensor) Phase Detect Multi-area Center Selective single-point Tracking Single Continuous Touch Face Detection Live View
Autofocus assist lamp	Yes
Manual focus	Yes
Number of focus points	121
Lens mount	Micro Four Thirds
Focal length multiplier	2×
Screen / viewfinder
Articulated LCD	Fully articulated
Screen size	3″
Screen dots	1,040,000
Touch screen	Yes
Screen type	TFT LCD
Live view	Yes
Viewfinder type	Electronic
Viewfinder coverage	100%
Viewfinder magnification	1.37× (0.68× 35mm equiv.)
Viewfinder resolution	2,360,000
Photography features
Minimum shutter speed	60 sec
Maximum shutter speed	1/8000 sec
Maximum shutter speed (electronic)	1/32000 sec
Exposure modes	iAuto Program Aperture priority Shutter priority Manual Bulb Time
Scene modes	Portrait e-Portrait Landscape + Portrait Night + Portrait Children Night scape Sport Hand-held Starlight Fireworks Light trails Sports Panning Landscape Sunset Beach & Snow Backlight HDR Candlelight Silent Macro Nature Macro Documents Multi Focus Shot
Built-in flash	No (Compact external flash included)
External flash	Yes (via hotshoe)
Flash modes	Auto, redeye, fill, off, redeye slow sync, slow sync, 2nd-curtain slow sync, manual
Flash X sync speed	1/250 sec
Drive modes	Single Sequential (hi/lo) Self-timer
Continuous drive	30.0 fps
Self-timer	Yes (2 or 10 secs, custom)
Metering modes	Multi Center-weighted Spot
Exposure compensation	±5 (at 1/3 EV, 1/2 EV, 1 EV steps)
AE Bracketing	±5 (2, 3, 5 frames at 1/3 EV, 2/3 EV, 1 EV steps)
WB Bracketing	Yes
Videography features
Format	MPEG-4, H.264
Modes	4096 x 2160 @ 24p / 237 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 102 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM 3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 102 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM 3840 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 102 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM 1920 x 1080 @ 120p, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 52 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM 1920 x 1080 @ 50p / 52 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 202 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM 1920 x 1080 @ 25p / 202 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM 1920 x 1080 @ 23.98p / 202 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
Microphone	Stereo
Speaker	Mono
Storage
Storage types	SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II supported)
Connectivity
USB	USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
USB charging	Yes
HDMI	Yes (micro-HDMI)
Microphone port	Yes
Headphone port	No
Wireless	Built-In
Wireless notes	802.11b/g/n + Bluetooth
Remote control	Yes (wired and via smartphone)
Physical
Environmentally sealed	Yes
Battery	Battery Pack
Battery description	BLS-50 lithium-ion battery & charger
Battery Life (CIPA)	310
Weight (inc. batteries)	414 g (0.91 lb / 14.60 oz)
Dimensions	125 x 85 x 50 mm (4.92 x 3.35 x 1.97″)
Other features
Orientation sensor	Yes
Timelapse recording	Yes
GPS	None

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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Hands-on with the Olympus E-M5 Mark III

17 Oct

Hands-on with the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

Meet the newest member of the Olympus Micro Four Thirds family: the OM-D E-M5 Mark III. Coming in more than four years after its predecessor was released, Olympus has really stepped up the specs of the E-M5 III, managing to fit an awful lot from its higher-end E-M1 Mark II into a much smaller overall package. Is it worth the wait? Let’s take a closer look and find out.

New sensor, autofocus system and stabilizer

To start, the E-M5 III comes with a new 20MP sensor and 121-point phase-detection autofocus system which are backed up by a new ‘Truepic VIII’ image processor, all of which are lifted from the E-M1 II. The resolution bump is welcome, of course, over the E-M5 II’s 16MP of resolution, but the older camera only utilized contrast-detection autofocus. The adoption of phase-detection should make the E-M5 III a more tempting option for users that want to photograph moving subjects.

There’s also an updated, more compact in-body image stabilizer, promising 5.5 stops of shake reduction with a non-stabilized lens, while putting on a stabilized lens gets you 6.5 stops using ‘Sync IS’. That means you should be able to hand-hold pretty slow shutter speeds and still get sharp results, so you can keep your ISO value down in low light or simply leave a tripod at home in some situations.

Lastly, the new sensor and AF system now allow the E-M5 III to fire at a maximum burst rate of 10 fps with full autofocus and auto exposure (and up to a 30 fps mode with manual focus), and Olympus claims equal tracking performance to the E-M1 Mark II. It also gains a Pro Capture mode, which captures 30fps bursts, but saves 15 of them prior to the moment you hit the shutter – a great feature for peak action moments.

Top-plate controls

The top plate of the camera has been extensively redesigned, and is far more similar in layout to that of the E-M1 II. The power switch is in the same place as the old model, but the mode dial is now on the right side of the viewfinder hump instead of the left, and the left shoulder adopts drive and display buttons that are also customizable.

Clip-on flash

Just like its predecessor, the E-M5 III has no built-in flash, but Olympus includes the FL-LM3 compact clip-on unit that allows for tilting and bouncing. The external design helps the camera stay smaller and better sealed, but the fact that it can articulate makes it much more versatile than a fixed or pop-up strobe that’s built in. It’s a really nice touch, and as an added bonus, the flash is advertised as being splash and dust resistant.

Rear controls

The E-M5 III’s rear control layout is actually pretty similar to the older model, which isn’t a bad thing – but the ‘Fn’ rocker switch is now textured for easier operation, and the top right thumb pad gains a dedicated ISO button. The screen is unchanged, coming in at 3″ and 1.04M dots. Olympus has added the ability to drag your finger around on the touchscreen to move your autofocus point while the camera is to your eye – and you can quickly enable or disable this feature by double-tapping. Pretty snazzy.

The viewfinder has seen some updates as well, including…

OLED Electronic viewfinder

…an increased eyepoint spec, which should make it easier for eyeglass-wearers to get the full view of the 2.36M-dot panel. Plus, that panel is now OLED, which is a welcome update to the previous model’s LCD tech thanks to greater contrast. Unfortunately, there has been a tradeoff – the magnification has fallen from approximately 0.74x to 0.68x.

Ports

Like the older model, the E-M5 III comes with a microphone port to get you better audio when recording video (and more on video very shortly), but no headphone port to monitor audio during recording. The other ports have been updated, though – gone is the proprietary USB / A/V-out connector (hooray!), and in its place are standard micro USB, micro HDMI and remote trigger ports. The camera can also be charged over its USB connection, but Olympus still includes a dedicated charger in the box, which we always like to see.

Video

The E-M5 III is, like Olympus’ other models, now capable of shooting 4K video at up to 30 frames per second with no crop. We haven’t yet been able to test its quality, but we expect it to look quite good. Even the lower-end E-M10 III can capture impressively detailed 4K footage, and the E-M5 III inherits that camera’s effective digital stabilizer on top of the already good in-body stabilizer to smooth out hand shake. It also gains a DCI 4K video mode from the E-M1 II, with a theoretical maximum bitrate of ~237Mbps.

If high-speed video is more your thing, the E-M5 III tops out at a respectable 1080/120p.

Battery

Olympus has changed the type of battery the E-M5 III uses; it’s now the BLS-50 unit that we first saw in the PEN-F, as opposed to the BLN-1 from the E-M5 II. It’s more of a packaging and design consideration than anything else, as the new battery’s capacity isn’t much diminished (1210mAh compared to 1220mAh and 8.7Wh rather than 9.3Wh), and CIPA-rated battery life is likewise unchanged at 310 shots. As with all CIPA ratings, you can expect to get more shots than that in real-world use, but this rating looks a bit low against the competition.

UHS-II card slot

Another welcome update is the inclusion of a UHS-II card slot, which should speed up write times with compatible cards. This isn’t especially common in this class of camera, and will come in handy if you’re using the 30 fps Pro Capture burst mode.

Weather-sealing

Although the older E-M5 II was also described as weather-sealed, the Mark III now gains the same official IPX1 rating that Olympus’ sports-shooting E-M1X earns. This technically means that it can withstand dripping water for 10 minutes, which may not sound super impressive, but the fact that these interchangeable lens cameras have ratings at all sets them apart from most of the market. Of course, we’re not advocating you go and run your brand-new E-M5 III under the tap, but it should stand up well to shooting in inclement weather or environments.

And that’s about it! We’ve long been fans of the E-M5 lineup, and we’re happy to see that Olympus has crammed plenty of updates and refinements into the Mark III, all while keeping the size similar and even losing a few grams of weight. After all, so many cameras are so capable these days, we generally expect to see refinements of already good cameras rather than revolutionary changes.

But what do you make of Olympus’ latest camera? Do you think it’s worth the wait? Let us know in the comments.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

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Posts Tagged ‘Mark’

Introduction

Key features:

What’s new and how it compares

Body, handling and controls

Early impressions

Image quality

Autofocus

Video

Conclusion

Sample galleries

Midrange mirrorless comparison – Nikon’s Z50 versus Canon’s EOS M6 Mark II

Features

Landscape photography

Travel

Sports and action

Family and moments

Lifestyle and people

Video

The wrap

Specifications

Canon Serves Up New Content Creator Kits

POWERFUL, FASTER AND RUGGED: CANON ANNOUNCES THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE EOS-1D X MARK III CAMERA

Need for Speed

Powered to Dominate

Conveniently Connected

A Familiar Feel with Improved Attributes

NEW OLYMPUS OM-D® E-M5 MARK III EMPOWERS YOU TO BREAK FREE FROM HEAVY GEAR

Compact, Lightweight, weather-sealed System

Outstanding Image Quality

High Speed AF Performance

Compact Image Stabilization Unit

OM-D Movie 4K Video Capture

Olympus Core Competencies

Versatile Shooting Features

Long Exposure Shooting

Pro Capture

Focus Bracketing and Focus Stacking

50MP Tripod High Res Shot

Other Features

Large, High-Visibility Viewfinder

1/8000 Second High-Speed Mechanical Shutter

SCN (Scene) Mode

Art Filter

Easy Wi-Fi® Connection to Smartphones via Bluetooth®

Custom Mode

USB Charging

Available Accessories

ECG-5 Dedicated External Grip (New, Sold Separately)

Electronic Flash, FL-900R (Sold Separately)

Electronic Flash, FL-700WR (Sold Separately)

Macro Flash, STF-8 (Sold Separately)

Large Eyecup, EP-16 (Sold Separately)

Remote Cable, RM-CB2 (Sold Separately)

Compact Gun Microphone, ME31 (Sold Separately)

Pricing and Availability

Olympus OM-D E-M5 III specifications

Hands-on with the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

New sensor, autofocus system and stabilizer

Top-plate controls

Clip-on flash

Rear controls

OLED Electronic viewfinder

Ports

Video

Battery

UHS-II card slot

Weather-sealing