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Posts Tagged ‘Olympus’

Ultimate OM-D: Olympus E-M1 Mark II Review

23 Nov

Olympus’ OM-D EM-1 has been one of our favorite mirrorless cameras since its introduction in 2013. It impressed us with its build quality, image quality, ridiculous amount of manual control (that’s a compliment) and boatload of features. Three years later, it’s still very competitive.

To say that Olympus has topped itself with the E-M1 Mark II is an understatement. The company told us that this camera was overdeveloped, and it shows. Its blazing dual quad-core processors allow for 60 fps burst shooting (18 fps w/continuous autofocus) and ridiculously fast image playback. Combine that with one of the most advanced autofocus systems we’ve seen and 5-axis in-body image stabilization – along with what made the original so impressive – and the Mark II is a force to be reckoned with.

One thing about the Mark II that makes us pause is its price. Its MSRP of $ 2000 is higher than that of Nikon’s D500 and full-frame D750 (both are $ 1800), and the Mark II’s Four Thirds is small in comparison to the D500 and other APS-C cameras and tiny versus full-framers. 

Key Specifications

  • 20MP Live MOS sensor
  • 5-axis in-body image stabilization system
  • 121-pt hybrid AF system
  • 60 fps burst shooting (18 fps with continuous AF)
  • Fully articulating 3″ LCD display
  • High-res electronic viewfinder
  • Cinema (DCI) and UHD 4K video
  • 50MP High-Res Shot mode
  • Weather-sealed body
  • USB 3 (Type-C)

Compared to Olympus E-M1 and Nikon D500

We are including the D500 here since it’s target audience is in the same vein: those who want high-speed shooting and an advanced AF system. As mentioned above, they both have a similar MSRP.

  Olympus E-M1 II Olympus E-M1 Nikon D500
Sensor 20MP Four Thirds 16MP Four Thirds 21MP APS-C
ISO range (expanded) 64-25,600 100-25,600 50-1,640,000
Image stabilization In-body (up to 5.5 stops*) In-body (up to 4 stops) Lens only
Autofocus system 121-point hybrid 81-point hybrid 153-pt phase-detect
Burst mode (electronic) 60 fps (AF-S)
18 fps (AF-C)		 11 fps (AF-S) N/A
Burst mode (mechanical) 15 fps (AF-S)
10 fps (AF-C)		 10 fps (AF-S, no IS)
6.5 fps (AF-C, no IS)		 10 fps
LCD 3″ fully articulating touchscreen 3″ tilting touchscreen 3.2″ tilting touchscreen
Viewfinder 2.36M-dot EVF (0.74x equiv. mag) Optical
(0.67x equiv. mag)
Flash GN 9.1 external GN 7 external None
Video capture DCI/UHD 4K (237Mbps) 1080/30p (24Mbps) UHD 4K (144Mbps)
Video output 4:2:2 over HDMI N/A 4:2:2 over HDMI
I/O ports Headphone, mic, remote, flash sync, USB 3, HDMI Mic, remote, USB, HDMI Headphone, mic, remote, flash sync, USB 3, HDMI
Storage Dual SD (UHS-II/UHS-I) SD (UHS-I) SD + XQD
Wireless Yes Yes Yes, with Bluetooth and NFC
Weather-sealed Yes Yes Yes
Battery life (CIPA) 440 shots 350 shots 1,240 shots
Dimensions 134 x 91 x 69mm 130 x 94 x 63mm 147 x 115 x 81mm
Weight (CIPA) 574g 497g 760g

* 6.5 stops with Olympus 12-100mm lens

Accessories

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At the time of its launch Olympus also debuted a number of accessories to go along with the E-M1 Mark II. The one most people will likely purchase is the HLD-9 battery grip ($ 249), which doubles battery life and offers two control dials and two custom buttons. It also features a DC-in jack, so the battery can be charged right inside the grip via an outrageously priced AC adapter.

Also available is the powerful FL-900R external flash ($ 299), which has a guide number of 58m, built-in video lamp, wireless control and the ability to fire at 10 fps. The STF-8 Macro Flash Set ($ 479) has fully adjustable (and removable) left and right flashes, manual control down to 1/128 power and support for focus stacking. Both of these flashes are weather-sealed.

For those who want to take the camera underwater there’s the PT-EP14 housing ($ 1299). It works down to 65m/196ft and numerous brackets, weights and arms are available. Naturally, you’ll need a housing for whatever lens you attach.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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What’s changed? Comparing the Olympus OM-D E-M1 and E-M1 II

21 Nov

Olympus OM-D E-M1 versus E-M1 II

The new Olympus OM-D E-M1 II is quite a camera. Capable of shooting at up to 60 fps at full resolution and packing high-bitrate 4K video and in-body stabilization, the E-M1 II is a powerhouse. But if you already have an E-M1, is it worth the upgrade?

In this article, I’ll compare several of the key areas of differentiation between the E-M1 II and its predecessor, to help you answer that question. 

Sensor

The E-M1 II’s maximum output resolution of 20MP might not match the 24MP+ sensors of larger-format competitors, but 20MP is quite enough for most purposes, and a nice step up from the 16MP of its predecessor. 

If 20MP isn’t enough, the E-M1 II incorporates Olympus’s high-resolution multi-shot mode, first seen in the OM-D E-M5 II. This allows the camera to produce 50MP JPEG and Raw files by combining several exposures taken with the sensor shifted by single-pixel increments. This mode is best suited to still life subjects (to avoid issues created by movement in the scene) but from our initial testing it seems like the E-M1 II does a good job of correcting some of the nasty artifacts that limited this mode’s usefulness in the E-M5 II. 

Speed

Resolution isn’t everything, of course. As well as more pixels, the sensor in the E-M1 II can also output data 3 times faster, allowing for full-resolution capture at up to 60 fps in electronic shutter mode. A maximum shooting rate of 18 fps with continuous autofocus makes the E-M1 II a significantly more interesting camera for shooting fast action than the original E-M1.

The E-M1 II’s high-speed USB 3.0 interface (C-type) is handy for quickly transferring files to a laptop if you’ve forgotten a card reader. Finally – a good reason to buy a new MacBook Pro…

Autofocus

The original E-M1 wasn’t exactly a slouch in the AF department, but the E-M1 II takes things to a whole new level. This new, faster sensor features 121 on-sensor phase-detection AF points, which cover 75% of the imaging area vertically, and 80% horizontally. All of these AF points are cross-type. The original E-M1 offered 37 phase-detection AF points, in a smaller central area of the frame.

The extra phase-detection AF points and the broader coverage mean that the E-M1 II is even more versatile when used with one Olympus’s range of older Four Thirds (non-Micro) lenses.

AF Tracking

These improvements, coupled with a dedicated processor for AF, means that the E-M1 II is capable of full-resolution shooting at up to 18fps with AF tracking. Compare this to a maximum frame-rate of 9 fps with AF from the E-M1 (running firmware 4.0). 

With the new E-M1 II, it’s also possible to use the rear LCD screen as a touch-pad to manually position the active AF point by touch, with your eye to the viewfinder. In addition, adjustable AF-C tracking sensitivity, and four ‘AF Target Modes’ allow the E-M1 II’s autofocus system to be quickly tweaked to suit different kinds of subjects. 

Ergonomics

The E-M1 II is ergonomically very similar to the E-M1. A slightly deeper hand grip makes the new camera feel a little more secure in the hand (depending, I suppose, on your hand size) and the tripod socket has been centered in the E-M1 II, in line with the lens axis. This is generally a good thing (and can be very handy for things like nodal panoramas) but it does mean the tripod socket is now closer to the battery door. The door has increased in size thanks to the bigger battery, which combines to incresae the risk of the door being occluded when the camera is mounted to a tripod.

The only thing that some users might argue has gone backwards in the E-M1 II compared to the original E-M1 is the rear screen’s articulation. If the E-M1 II is incorporated into a video rig, with microphone or headphones plugged in and video output to an external recorder over HDMI, the folding screen can foul these cables when extended. The tilting screen of the original E-M1 is arguably less versatile, but can be used without snagging the I/O ports.

In-body Image Stabilization (I.B.I.S)

Both the E-M1 II and its predecessor feature 5-axis in-body image stabilization, but the Mark II improves the feature to offer a maximum benefit of 5.5EV, compared to 4EV in the older model. For anyone used to shooting according to the ‘one over equivalent focal length’ rule this means that at 50mm (equivalent) the E-M1 II should be hand-holdable down to as low as half a second, in favorable conditions, whereas the E-M1 would be safe down to ‘only’ around a quarter of a second. With the new stabilized 12-100mm zoom, the E-M1 II offers up to 6.5EV of shake compensation.

As well as stills, the E-M1 II’s I.B.I.S is also useful when shooting video footage. The E-M1 was capable of capturing extremely smooth and shake-free video, and the E-M1 II is even better.

Video

One of the most significant improvements offered by the E-M1 II compared to its predecessor is a totally revamped video mode. Capable of 4K video at up to 30p, the E-M1 II boasts a maximum bitrate of 237 Mbps during DCI 4K/24p capture. A ‘flat’ picture profile in movie mode is a nice addition to the E-M1 II’s video feature set, too.

The E-M1 produces very nice-looking video (and as previously noted, it’s tilting screen doesn’t foul the camera’s I/O ports) but it’s limited to 1080/30p in normal use, and isn’t capable of clean output over HDMI to an external recorder. The E-M1 can capture 4K footage, but only in time-lapse movie mode.

One final note – it’s not really fair to call it a ‘downside’, but if you plan on shooting 4K with the E-M1 II, do make sure to budget for a high-capacity UHS-II or UHS-I Speed Class 3 card. 

Durability

The E-M1 and E-M1 II are both tough cameras, built to a high degree of quality and intended to withstand use in unfavorable conditions. As such, both are weather-sealed and both can operate in freezing conditions. The E-M1 and E-M1 II have the same rated operating range of -10 to +40 degrees C, and both can handle being left out in the rain, but the E-M1 II’s shutter is rated to a higher count of 200,000 exposures (the E-M1 is rated to 150,000). Whether this translates to substantially better durability in normal use is hard to say, but more pictures = more better.

Battery life

A less abstract measure of durability is battery life, and in this respect the E-M1 II also outperforms its predecessor, offering a maximum endurance of 440 shots (CIPA) in normal use from its larger, beefed-up battery and up to 950 when ‘quick sleep’ mode is used. These figures actually seem conservative judging from our shooting so far, during which we’ve routinely experienced 1000+ shot endurance in normal (stills) shooting.

The original E-M1 can shoot for a rated maximum number of 350 shots but the same applies – you can expect better endurance if you’re not shooting video or constantly reviewing images. 

Twin card slots

Speaking of shots, the E-M1 II offers two SD card slots, as opposed to the E-M1’s single slot. The additional card can be used as overflow or backup storage, or as a dedicated card for storing video clips. Note that only the upper slot is UHS-II compatible, so that’s where you’ll want to save those 4K video clips.

Verdict

There’s absolutely no doubt that the new OM-D E-M1 II is a better camera than its predecessor in virtually every way. It’s rare these days that we see successor models which so roundly outperform the models that they replace. We might have expected the viewfinder and / or rear LCD screens to get a bump in resolution, but arguably, neither really needed improvement.

All told, the E-M1 II is a very impressive update to the original E-M1. But it’s also heavier, and more costly. We’d strongly suggest spending the extra cash if you can afford it (we can’t see the E-M1 II being outmoded any time soon) but if you’re mostly a slow-speed stills photographer, the original E-M1 won’t disappoint. 

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II added to studio comparison scene

17 Nov

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II raised a lot of eyebrows when it was released. It comes with an all-new 121-point autofocus system, 20MP sensor and 60fps Raw + JPEG shooting. Oh, and a $ 2000 MSRP. Can’t forget that.

Nonetheless, Olympus’ new flagship is here, and it is seriously capable. We’re in the home stretch on our full review, but in the meantime, check out how it stacks up against the competition in our studio comparison scene.

Click here to see the Olympus OM-D E-M1 II in our studio comparison scene

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Olympus to give away OM-D E-M1 ll and 1M Yen in global competition

15 Nov

An Olympus OM-D E-M1 ll with a 12-40mm F2.8 Pro lens and ¥1M is up for grabs for the winner of the 2016-2017 Olympus Global Open Photo Contest. The competition is open to amateur and professional photographers alike, and the company has placed no restriction on the equipment used to take entered images saying ‘Any photographic device from a DSLR to smartphone may be used.’

There are four categories with these themes:

  • Power of life
  • Connections to Cherish
  • Places that Inspire
  • Perspectives Often Missed

There will be three prizes for each category with first place images winning an OM-D E-M5 ll with the 12-40mm F2.8 Pro lens, second placed winners getting an OM-D E-M10 ll with 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 EZ and those coming in third receiving a Pen E-PL8 with 12-42mm F3.5-5.6 EZ. The overall winner will get the OM-D E-M1 ll with the 12-40mm F2.8 Pro lens and the cash.

Entry is free and entrants may submit up to five pictures for each category until the closing date on January 10th 2017. Winners will be announced in April 2017. At current exchange rates 1,000,000 Japanese Yen is worth about $ 9200/£7400/€8600.

For more information visit the Olympus Global Open Photo Contest website.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Olympus E-M1 Mark II real-world samples gallery and Iceland gallery update

13 Nov
Straight-out-of-camera JPEG – check out the Raw processed image in the gallery. Olympus 25mm F1.2 Pro, ISO 1600, 1/250 sec, F1.2. Photo by Carey Rose

As Olympus’ top-end flagship, the OM-D E-M1 Mark II isn’t small for a Micro Four Thirds camera, but it’s built to be incredibly tough and has room for some impressive technology on the inside and abundant, customizable controls on the outside.

We soaked it at a frisbee match, cranked the ISO at a rock show, took it to the streets and the studio, and tried out the new High Res Shot mode (we even tried it with a live subject with questionable success). Take a look at how the camera’s handled a variety of situations as we continue to work through our forthcoming review.

We’ve also gotten preliminary Adobe Camera Raw support, and have updated our previous Iceland gallery with some new Raw conversions.

Click to see our new Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II real world sample gallery

Click to see our updated Iceland E-M1 Mark II sample gallery

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Throwback Thursday: Olympus C-3040 Zoom

10 Nov

In the year 2000, Olympus updated its enthusiast-friendly digital zoom compact. The C-3040 Zoom bears the adorably 90’s ‘Camedia’ logo, and when it was introduced updated the previous model with some cosmetic improvements, a faster lens and a couple of feature updates like one-touch manual white balance. This 3.3MP powerhouse fetched $ 800 when we reviewed it in 2001 – here’s what all those clams got you:

  • 3MP 1/1.8″ CCD sensor
  • Built-in optical viewfinder
  • 320 x 240 video at 12.5 fps without audio
  • 3.5 fps burst shooting
  • 1.8″ LCD
  • Auto, 100, 200, 400 ISO settings
  • Full manual exposure modes

The C-3040 Zoom offered a 35-105mm equiv. F1.8-2.6 zoom, a boost over its predecessor’s 32-96mm equiv. F2.8 constant aperture lens. When we reviewed it we found the new lens to be noticeably sharper, and welcomed the minor improvements, but considered Olympus to be trying to extend the shelf life of an already aging design without bringing anything new to the market. Still, for $ 800 in its time it was a good bargain.

Did you own the 3040 Zoom or its predecessor? Do you have fond memories of using one? Share in the comments below.

See our Olympus C-3040 Zoom Review

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Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Olympus STF-8 Macro Flash is first weatherproof model of its kind

08 Nov

Olympus has announced what it says is the first ever macro twin flash with a weatherproof construction: the new STF-8 Macro Flash. This model is, according to Olympus, both splashproof and dustproof with construction that can withstand temperatures as low as -10°C / 14°F. Features include a guide number of 8.5 when both heads fire and of 6 when one head fires, as well as full TTL auto-sync, removable heads, customizable positioning, and manual output control down to 1/128.

The new Macro Flash is compatible with the following lenses:

  • M.ZUIKO Digital ED 30mm F3.5 Macro
  • M.ZUIKO Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro
  • M.ZUIKO Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 Pro

Says Olympus, users can also attach third-party step-up and step-down rings to use other lenses. The STF-8 is available to preorder from some retailers now, including B&H Photo, for $ 479 / $ 600 CAD. Shipping will start in January 2017. 

Source: Olympus

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Olympus OM-D E-M1 II will ship in December for $2000 body-only

02 Nov

Olympus has taken wraps off availability and pricing details for its flagship OM-D E-M1 II. Announced at Photokina, the E-M1 II will cost $ 2000 body-only and is set to ship at the end of December. The E-M1 II’s predecessor was introduced just over three years ago and started at $ 1400 body-only.

That $ 600 premium buys some notable advancements including a faster processor, 20.4MP sensor with 121 phase-detection AF points and a stabilization system claiming an unearthly 6.5 stops of shake correction. Like the Mark I, the E-M1 II is built to withstand hostile conditions with a dust, splash and freeze-proof design. 

Read our Olympus OM-D E-M1 II
Shooting Experience

Press release:

REVOLUTIONARY CAMERA PERFORMANCE: THE OLYMPUS OM-D E-M1 MARK II ARRIVES

The new flagship Micro Four Thirds® camera boasts world’s fastest sequential shooting1, superior autofocus accuracy, and world’s most effective image stabilization performance2

CENTER VALLEY, Pa., — November 2, 2016 — Olympus announces that its new flagship camera, the Olympus® OM-D E-M1 Mark II, is set to go on sale at the end of December 2016 for the manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $ 1999.99 USD and $ 2499.99 CAD. The OM-D® E-M1 Mark II is the latest addition to the award-winning OM-D series and features incredible speed, outstanding image resolution and a host of new shooting features to meet the needs of the professional photographer.

The OM-D E-M1 Mark II is equipped with the newly-developed high-speed TruePic VIII Image Processor, which is 3.5 times faster than the previous TruePic processor used in the OM-D E-M1, and a new 20.4 megapixel Live MOS sensor equipped with 121 points of cross-type on-chip phase detection and contrast detection AF. These technologies work together with the camera’s silent electronic shutter to provide full-resolution RAW images at up to an unprecedented 60 frames per second in AF and AE lock, and up to 18 frames per second with continuous AF and AE tracking.

The OM-D E-M1 Mark II boasts a wide array of shooting features including the new Pro Capture Mode for lag-free shooting that enables the capture of split-second moments, a 50 Megapixel High-Res Shot Mode for images with incredible detail rivaling that of full-frame DSLRs, in-body 5-Axis Image Stabilization that provides up to 5.5 shutter speed steps of compensation performance3, and 5-Axis Sync IS that provides the world’s most effective 6.5 shutter speed steps of compensation2 when combined with the new M.ZUIKO® Digital ED 12-100mm f4.0 IS PRO.

The OM-D E-M1 Mark II is weather sealed to be dustproof, splashproof and freezeproof (down to 14°F/-10°C) in a compact lightweight design, ideal for shooting in all types of outdoor conditions.

Main Features

1. High-Speed Sequential Shooting and Superior AF Performance

Live MOS sensor and TruePic VIII Image Processor
The newly developed high-speed TruePic VIII Image Processor and a new 20.4 megapixel Live MOS Sensor works in concert with the camera’s electronic shutter to provide full-resolution images at a maximum 60 frames per second in AF and AE lock, and up to 18 frames per second with continuous AF and AE tracking.

The TruePic VIII Image Processor boasts a dual quad core system with four CPU cores and four image processing cores to achieve image processing speeds approximately 3.5 times faster than the TruePic VII Processor. Because camera operation and image processing functions are carried out in unison, transfer speeds and menu operations are vastly improved over previous models. 

Pro Capture Mode
The new Pro Capture Mode provides lag-free shooting so users can capture high-quality full-resolution images at precise moments with no compromises. Using the silent electronic shutter, Pro Capture buffers a running series of JPEG / RAW images when users press the shutter release halfway. Then, by fully pressing the shutter button, users can capture that moment’s image plus up to 14 previous frames all at once.

Advanced Dual FAST Autofocus
The advanced Dual FAST AF automatically chooses between on-chip phase detection AF and contrast detection AF, or utilizes both phase and contrast detection simultaneously. This system boasts 121 cross-type on-chip phase detection focus points in order to dramatically improve accuracy. The simultaneous use of contrast detection and on-chip phase detection AF enables accurate focus in difficult lighting conditions, while a new moving subject tracking algorithm rapidly and continuously measures the subject-to-camera distance to precisely maintain focus. Finally, the in-camera AF Limiter function is included to achieve faster focusing by limiting the focus range of the lens, thus preventing time-consuming focus hunting.

Autofocus functions such as AF Target Mode4, AF target position and face/eye priority AF are easily set with a single button press. AF operations are enhanced with a new subject-tracking Cluster Display, which illuminates active sensors to assure the user of focus-subject accuracy. The AF Targeting Pad feature allows users to select the AF point by sliding their finger on the rear touch LCD monitor while looking through the viewfinder.

High-magnification, high-speed electronic viewfinder
The performance of the 1.48x (35mm equivalent) high-magnification, high-resolution electronic viewfinder rivals those of professional full-frame interchangeable lens cameras. With high-speed operation that includes a maximum refresh rate of 120 fps and a minimum response time of five milliseconds, users never lose track of fast-moving subjects.

High-speed response
The significantly improved shutter release lag time, now reduced by approximately 30% from that of the previous model, facilitates response time so users never miss a photo opportunity. In addition, frame-advance speed during playback is approximately three times quicker for faster scrolling and review of images.

2. Outstanding Portability and Reliability

A compact, lightweight system with excellent portability
The OM-D E-M1 Mark II features weatherproof construction in a compact and lightweight design. Coupled with an Olympus M.ZUIKO lens, the OM-D system is extremely compact, providing the ultimate in portability for shooting and transportation. Handheld super-telephoto shooting is possible with the M.ZUIKO Digital ED 300mm f4.0 IS PRO lens (600mm focal length in 35mm equivalent), and this camera and lens combination is compact enough to store in carry-on luggage when flying.

Weatherproof construction and Super-Sonic Wave Filter dust reduction system
The OM-D E-M1 Mark II features high-performance weather sealing for excellent dustproof, splashproof and freezeproof (down to 14°F/-10°C) performance so that users can shoot in the harshest of conditions. This weatherproofing is not limited to the camera body alone: it is extended across the entire OM-D system, including the dustproof, splashproof and freezeproof M.ZUIKO PRO lens lineup5. In addition, a Supersonic Wave Filter (SSWF) dust reduction system vibrates the image sensor more than 30,000 times a second to virtually eliminate any dust that may land on the sensor while changing lenses.

High-performance shutter
A newly developed shutter is rated for 200,000 actuations6 to withstand consistent daily use in professional environments. Floating shutter construction is employed so that shutter shock is not easily transmitted to the camera body.

Dual memory card slots
The OM-D E-M1 Mark II features dual memory card slots to allow simultaneous use of two SD cards for more versatile shooting. The slots are positioned in a staggered layout, making cards easier to insert and remove. Users can select from four settings: Standard Mode records to the specified card; Automatic Switching Mode automatically switches to the second card when the first card becomes full; Dual Independent Mode records to both cards according to the specified image quality setting assigned to each; and Dual Same Mode records identical files to both cards simultaneously. Slot 1 supports UHS-II and UHS-I cards, while Slot 2 supports UHS-I cards.

High-capacity battery and rapid charger
The new BLH-1 lithium-ion rechargeable battery has a capacity that’s approximately 37% higher than that of the BLN-1 used in the previous model, providing approximately 440 shots on a single charge (CIPA standards-compliant). The OM-D E-M1 Mark II displays the remaining battery life percentage on the rear monitor so users are not surprised by a depleted battery. Also, the new BCH-1 charger is 50% faster than the previous version.

3. Exceptional Image Quality

Higher resolution and improved dynamic range
The new 20.4 megapixel Live MOS sensor offers 25% higher resolution than the previous model, and the absence of a low-pass filter further enhances image quality. A higher dynamic range7 improves the reproduction of highlight and shadow detail, and an anti-reflective coating on both sides of the sensor’s sealing glass further enhances contrast performance.

Improved image quality at high ISO settings

The newly-developed TruePic VIII Image Processor dramatically improves image quality when shooting at high ISO settings, making it possible to capture images with minimal noise. The normal sensitivity ISO (ISO AUTO) range has been expanded to ISO 6400 for greater flexibility in a variety of shooting scenarios, and Fine Detail Processing II ensures that no detail is lost due to oversharpening.

ISO 64 equivalent ISO LOW setting
The ISO LOW setting is equivalent to ISO 64, providing greater flexibility to shoot at wider apertures even in brightly lit situations, making it possible to achieve beautiful, shallow depths of field.

50 Megapixel High-Res Shot Mode
A High-Res Shot Mode utilizes the Voice Coil Motor (VCM) system of the 5-Axis Image Stabilization System to precisely shift the sensor in half-pixel increments while capturing a total of eight shots. The camera automatically composites the shots into a single 50-megapixel equivalent ultra-high resolution image8. This unique Olympus technology is a benefit for any still life photographer or anyone who requires ultrafine detail reproduction. The TruePic VIII Image Processor effectively suppresses blur due to subject movement, making it possible to utilize High-Res Shot Mode in a wide variety of shooting conditions, such as gently blowing grass, tree leaves or ocean waves. In addition to 80 megapixel RAW and 50 megapixel equivalent JPEG images, it is possible to select a smaller 25 megapixel equivalent file size.

In-body 5-Axis Image Stabilization
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II is equipped with the latest in-body 5-Axis Image Stabilization to compensate for all types of camera shake. An optimized correction algorithm boasts outstanding compensation performance with approximately 5.5 shutter-speed steps of compensation3. Also, when combined with Olympus lenses equipped with in-lens image stabilization, 5-Axis Sync IS provides the world’s most effective 6.5 shutter-speed steps of compensation2 for blur-free handheld shooting of stills and video.

4. Stunning UHD Video Capture

Digital Cinema Standard 4K videos
The OM-D E-M1 Mark II supports Digital Cinema Standard 4K (4096×2060 pixels) video capture9 at a 24P frame rate and a bit rate of up to 237 Mbps for authentic movie production. The 20.4 megapixel Live MOS sensor provides a read speed three times faster than that of the previous model for effective suppression of movement distortion, resulting in sharp, clear image quality. The video-specific picture mode “Flat” is ideal for color grading and finishing the footage exactly as envisioned by the videographer.

5-Axis Image Stabilization combined with electronic stabilization for video
With four times the resolution of Full HD, 4K videos are easily affected by camera movement and typically require a tripod, mini jib, crane and other specialized accessories for movie recording. The OM-D E-M1 Mark II pairs its advanced 5-Axis Image Stabilization with electronic stabilization specialized for video (M-IS)10 to effectively reduce camera shake, making handheld 4K video capture possible. This outstanding image stabilization system allows videographers to easily shoot movies with virtually no visible camera shake. The camera’s rear vari-angle LCD monitor can be adjustable to the user’s preferred angle for shooting convenience.

HDMI monitor connection and recording synchronization
The HDMI monitor connection provides the ability to view live video output on a larger display while shooting. Users are able to select from Monitor Mode for an external monitor and Recording Mode to capture uncompressed video directly from the HDMI port. The OM-D E-M1 Mark II is equipped with a synchronization signal so that video recording to an external device can start or stop from the camera. A 4:2:2 external output is provided to meet a wider color correction range. An audio synchronization function makes it easy to synchronize audio recording when using Olympus’ Linear PCM Recorder LS-100 while recording video, and a Slate Tone function facilitates the syncing of recorded audio and video.

5. Advanced Shooting Functions

Silent Mode
Silent Mode utilizes the silent electronic shutter to eliminate all mechanical noises while shooting. Silent Mode is especially useful for shooting in situations where noise of any kind is not appropriate, including stage performances, concerts and even sleeping children. Also, it is possible to deactivate the AF Illuminator, AF confirmation beep and flash for virtually silent operation.

Focus Stacking/Focus Bracketing Modes
Depth of field is especially shallow when taking macro photos, making it difficult to capture an image that is completely in focus from the foreground to background, even at smaller apertures. Focus Stacking Mode captures eight shots at different focal positions and composites them to form a single shot that is entirely in focus. The depth of field provided by Focus Stacking is far deeper than even the smallest aperture at close distances. Focus Stacking Mode is compatible with seven Olympus M.ZUIKO lenses for a variety of shooting scenes11.

Focus Bracketing Mode automatically captures up to 999 shots with different focal points, allowing users to choose shots with the optimal focus point or use commercially-available software to composite all images into one picture with stunning depth of field.

Live Composite/Live Bulb Modes
Live Composite Mode is available for shooting fireworks and cityscapes against starry backgrounds. While using Live Composite, the exposure of dark areas remains constant, while areas of light that change during the exposure are updated, creating trails of light from stars or fireworks. Live Bulb and Live Composite Modes allow users to easily check the image on the LCD monitor in real time, instead of relying on intuition.

Keystone Compensation
The camera is equipped with Keystone Compensation for photographing architecture. Keystone Compensation digitally provides tilt and shift functions with all M.ZUIKO lenses, and because trapezoidal compensation may be applied simultaneously to both vertical and horizontal directions, it is possible to shoot various subjects in a wide range of situations.

Tethered shooting with Olympus Capture
Olympus Capture™ is now available in Version 1.2 and supports tethered shooting with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II. High-speed data processing and transfer via the USB 3.0 Type C port is four times faster than with Olympus Capture Version 1.1. A cable clip is bundled for securing and stabilizing the cable to a strap when the camera and computer are connected.

Additional features

  • Customizable C-AF tracking sensitivity allows users to choose the best setting for their subject to optimize C-AF tracking performance.
  • AF Scan allows users to adjust the lens scan operation settings in low-contrast environments to prevent unnecessary hunting.
  • Preset MF lets users quickly set a preferred focus distance when using manual focus.
  • AF Home Settings is assignable to a customizable function button. Users are able to program their most frequently used AF target position, AF Target Mode and AF Mode as an AF Home setting.
  • Lowest Shutter Speed Setting on the camera allows users to predefine a minimum shutter speed so that the ISO sensitivity increases in low-light situations rather than slowing down the shutter speed. This is convenient for handheld shooting in low-light environments.
  • Users are able to back up customized camera settings on a computer so that they can be reapplied to the camera whenever necessary, which is especially useful for using the same settings on multiple cameras or maintaining settings after a firmware update.
  • Specify Folder function lets users select a folder as a recording destination and create new folders to make image editing and management easier.
  • Grid settings allow users to set a highly visible grid color for display as a guide when shooting in dark locations such as theaters.
  • The Date/Time/Second display lets users organize images by a second unit. This is an effective feature for high-speed sequential shooting.

Optional Accessories

HLD-9 Power Battery Holder
This dustproof, splashproof and freezeproof power battery holder is specifically designed for the OM-D E-M1 Mark II. With the HLD-9, users have the power of one BLH-1 lithium-ion rechargeable battery in the camera body and a second one in the HLD-9. The rear of the HLD-9 power battery holder is equipped with the same directional pad, two control dials, two function buttons and shutter release, as on the camera body, for identical controls whether the camera is held in a vertical or horizontal position. An optional AC-5 AC adapter can be used for studio photography or other situations when using the camera for long periods of time.

FL-900R Weatherproof High-Intensity Flash
This is a high-intensity flash boasting a maximum guide number of 58m. This accessory on-camera flash has the highest sequential shooting tracking performance in its class at 10 fps12. It features a lightweight weatherproof design with a wireless RC mode for simultaneous control of multiple flash units, and supports Multi Flash, High Res Shot, Focus Stacking and Focus Bracketing Modes. The FL-900R is also equipped with a built-in LED light for recording videos. For additional details, please see the FL-900R press release.

STF-8 Weatherproof Macro Flash
The STF-8 is the world’s first macro flash built with dustproof, splashproof and freezeproof construction13. The flash heads and controller features a lightweight compact design. When combined with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II, Focus Stacking and Focus Bracketing modes are supported for flash photography, useful for capturing flowers, insects and commercial photos in the studio. The bundled adapter ring is compatible with the 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. When using both flash heads the GN is 8.5m. In addition to a TTL Auto Sync Mode for precision control, users can set the flash in 1/3-step increments on the camera when in Manual Mode and in one-step increments with the flash dial. The main flash can also be used as a commander to control multiple flash units. The flash head angle is adjustable within a range of -60 to 40 degrees.

RM-CB2 Release Cable
This release cable with a pin jack terminal (2.5mm diameter) features a bulb lock function convenient for long exposures. The connector terminal features an L-shaped design ensuring a compact form when connected to the camera.

PT-EP14 Underwater Case
This compact underwater housing provides water depth resistance up to 60 meters. It provides a clear field of view to each corner of the screen, designed to be easy to hold to frame and zoom your shot easily. In addition, the PPO-EP03 Macro Lens Port provides compatibility with the M.ZUIKO Digital ED 60mm f2.8 Macro and M.ZUIKO Digital ED 30mm f3.5 Macro14.

  1. Sequential shooting speed as of September 2016, when using Silent Sequential Shooting H Mode S-AF.
  2. OM-D E-M1 Mark II with M.ZUIKO Digital ED 12-100mm f4.0 IS PRO, focal length: 100mm (35mm equivalent focal length: approx. 200mm); halfway release image stabilization: OFF; CIPA standard compliant, when correction is carried out on two axes (Yaw/Pitch); as of September 2016.
  3. OM-D E-M1 Mark II with M.ZUIKO Digital ED 12-40mm f2.8 PRO; focal length: 40mm (35mm equivalent focal length: approx. 80mm); CIPA standard compliant, when correction is carried out on two axes (Yaw/Pitch); as of September 2016.
  4. Four modes of AF targeting include the new 5-Point Cross, All Point, Single Point, and 9-Point Group.
  5. Dustproof, splashproof and freezeproof (-10°C) performance applies to the following non-M.ZUIKO PRO lenses as well: M.ZUIKO Digital ED 60mm f2.8 Macro, M.ZUIKO Digital ED 12-50mm f3.5-6.3 EZ and M.ZUIKO Digital ED 14-150mm f4.0-5.6 II.
  6. According to Olympus internal testing.
  7. As of September 2016, according to Olympus internal testing.
  8. In RAW+JPEG Mode, three types of images are saved including 50M JPEG, 80M RAW (ORF) and 20M RAW (ORI). 80M RAW images can be processed to 50M JPEG images on the camera. 80M JPEG images can be processed using Olympus Viewer 3 (64-bit OS). Please use a tripod.
  9. 4K video capture (3842×2160 pixels) also possible.
  10. The angle of view is narrowed when using electronic stabilization for movies (M-IS1).
  11. Lenses compatible with Focus Stacking Mode: M.ZUIKO Digital ED 7–14mm f2.8 PRO, M.ZUIKO Digital ED 8mm f1.8 Fisheye PRO, M.ZUIKO Digital ED 12–40mm f2.8 PRO, M.ZUIKO Digital ED 40–150mm f2.8 PRO, M.ZUIKO Digital ED 300mm f4.0 IS PRO, M.ZUIKO Digital ED 30mm f3.5 Macro and M.ZUIKO Digital ED 60mm f2.8 Macro.
  12. When paired with the OM-D E-M1 Mark II, at a flash ratio of 1/32.
  13. Among ring flashes and twin flashes currently on sale as of September 2016, according to Olympus research.
  14. Any lens with the appropriate diameter may be used with a commercially available step-up ring.

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Olympus E-M1 Mark II Iceland sample gallery

02 Nov

From waterfalls to the Northern Lights, Iceland is full of natural beauty. And, in October, lots and lots of rain. We’ve put together a sample gallery of photos taken over four days with Olympus’ new OM-D E-M1 Mark II on a company-sponsored trip.

View our Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II Iceland gallery

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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66 Degrees North: Olympus E-M1 Mark II Shooting Experience

02 Nov

If there’s one thing I learned about the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II, it’s that it can handle mother nature with the best of them. At an Olympus-sponsored press event in Iceland, the camera got pelted with rain, sleet, snow and hail, all of which occurred over a 20 minute period on more than one occasion. Despite both the camera and the photographer getting soaked, the Mark II kept on going.

Black Beach near Vik. ISO 200, 1/160 sec, F5.6, Olympus 12-100mm F4 lens @ 100mm equiv. Photo by Jeff Keller.

In most respects the E-M1 II feels very ‘Olympus.’ The controls aren’t radically different than other recent OM-D models, and the Super Control Panel (which is on by default) and a slightly restyled menu system are both there. The E-M1 II feels great in the hand and is well balanced. The build quality is superb, which I learned firsthand when the camera knocked the front plate off of the electronic lock on my hotel room door (oops).

Icelandic horses. ISO 200, 1/160 sec, F4.5, Olympus 12-100mm F4 lens @ 132mm equiv. Photo by Jeff Keller.

The E-M1 Mark II has an impressive 440 shots-per-charge CIPA battery life rating, though the battery drained a lot quicker than that in the roughly 4°C/40°F temperatures. Quite a few of my colleagues used the optional grip full-time, while I saved it for aurora shooting, where I really didn’t want the camera to run out of juice, since (ironically) I found it easier to hold the camera without it.

Given its spot as Olympus’ flagship mirrorless camera, it should be no surprise that the E-M1 Mark II has two memory card slots, located on its right side. The top one supports UHS-II media, while the bottom one is UHS-I only. The UHS-II slot is noticeably ‘thicker’ than the UHS-I one, which is another way to tell them apart. For this trip, I set up the camera to put all videos onto the UHS-II card – a necessity when shooting at very high bit rates – and all stills to the UHS-I card.

A break in the hail at Black Beach. ISO 200, 1/400 sec, F10, Olympus 12-100mm F4 lens @ 50mm equiv. Photo by Jeff Keller.

Something that affected my shooting quite a bit was the Mark II’s overly sensitive shutter release button. This resulted in many unwanted photos and, in one case, my memory card became filled with 2000+ shots while using in the Pro Capture mode, because I was unknowingly shooting the entire time I was waiting for a geyser to erupt. Other members of the press echoed my concerns about the touchy shutter release.

Skógafoss. ISO 200, 1/400 sec, F7.1, Olympus 7-14mm F2.8 lens @ 16mm equiv. Photo by Jeff Keller.

While the E-M1 II’s big claim to fame is its advanced autofocus system, the Olympus event in Iceland was essentially all landscape photography. Our journey included a lot of waterfalls and geysers, plus some shooting around Reykjavik, but fast-moving subjects were scarce, so I can’t comment on how well that part of the AF system works. What I can say is that in single AF mode the Mark II was both responsive and accurate, though it did miss focus (in both front and back directions) on a few occasions with the 12-100 and 300mm lenses.

Two features I got to test out were the Pro Capture and Live Time modes. The former works by buffering shots as you half-press the shutter release, saving up to 14 of them when you fully press it. My plan was to capture the moment a geyser erupted, but as mentioned earlier, I was actually recording images the entire time due to that oversensitive shutter release button. The fact that I chose the wrong geyser didn’t help matters, either. Another member of our group had better luck and got some great shots using Pro Capture, so maybe it was just me.

Northern Lights over Reyjavik. In-camera Raw conversion (I’ll update when ACR is available). ISO 800, 21 sec, F2.8, Olympus 8mm F1.8 fisheye. Photo by Jeff Keller.

I used the Live Time feature when shooting the Northern Lights, which unfortunately weren’t as strong as expected. Live Time is a long exposure mode that displays the current image at an interval of your choosing, so you can close the shutter when you’re happy with the result. For aurora shooting I turned on Live Time, set the 12-100mm lens wide-open at F4 and used an ISO value between 800 and 1600, depending on the current auroral activity. Just to be safe, I turned on anti-shock to prevent any shake caused by pressing the shutter release button. While the ‘show’ wasn’t great, Live Time was a valuable feature that made it easy to decide when to press ‘stop’ when the exposure looked right.

I came back pretty satisfied with the photos I took on the trip, though I had to dump a lot of photos due to water on the lens (did I mention it rained a lot? Every time I wiped it off, more would appear.) I have no complaints about color, though at default settings JPEG noise reduction is higher than I’d like. Normally I’d pop the images into Photoshop and use ACR to tweak that to my liking (and bump up the shadows in a few of my photos,) but the only option at time of publication was converting the Raws in-camera. If you’ve used Olympus’ in-camera Raw conversion, you’ll know that it’s quite confusing, though I appreciate the addition of shadow/midtone/highlight correction.

While I didn’t take a ton of video, I was impressed with the results. I shot exclusively at Cinema 4K (24p), which maxes out at 237Mbps. The bit rate never got that high, since it varies depending on your subject, but the quality was never in question. Despite Olympus’ claims of 5.5 stops of shake reduction, a few videos seemed a bit shakier than I was expecting. In continuous AF mode there was a bit of ‘hunting,’ but not enough to concern me.

Gullfoss in Dramatic Tone. ISO 200, 1/100 sec, F5, Olympus 12-100mm lens @ 36mm equiv. Photo by Jeff Keller.

The one thing that about the E-M1 II that remained a mystery until the very end of the trip was its price. Some of the group were guessing around $ 1500, while I was thinking $ 1800. As it turned out, the E-M1 II is a penny under $ 2000 — a full $ 600 over the MSRP of the original E-M1 and on par with the Nikon D500. That’s a lot of dough for a Micro Four Thirds camera and while my initial impressions of the camera were positive, I want to see how it performs in our tests – especially in terms of autofocus – to see if its worth the price.

Sample gallery

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