Is the OM-3 a worthy successor to the Pen F...?

Last update:- 11th February 2026

Introduction.

The Olympus Pen F continues to be a popular camera for MFT photographers. While some continue to ask for a Pen F II, it is not clear what improvements they want. The Pen F was such a unique camera with so many possible applications that it's important to be specific when asking for a new version. It doesn't take much to see that OM System delivered by repackaging the OM-1 II into an OM-3 with the new CP button, and Creative Dial. Are computational features, color and monochrome profiles, more tonal control, ART filters, and the Color Creator enough to please those wanting a Pen F II?

An interesting trend is modern photographers wanting something unique and different. Breaking away from the uniform-looking professional or "approved" compact cameras of 2026, modern photographers prioritize the quality and the look and feel of modern digital cameras. Image quality and the ability to personalize your photos in the camera have become key differentiators. Is the social media push for a "perfect" camera, image quality, video, and sensor size the right focus to grow this trend?

Having owned the OM-3 for a year, I haven't regretted one moment of keeping my E-M1 III and buying the OM-3. It has proven to be such an inspiring combination that I decided to sell my Fuji X-T5 in December 2025 and my Pen F in February 2026. Imagine my surprise as some continue to question the pricing of the OM-3 or when they ask for a Pen F II. Let's take a closer look at the OM-3 and why it's a welcome upgrade to the Pen F. It's important to review some basics and the history of the Olympus Pen E-P range to appreciate why I think the OM-3 is a worthy successor to the Pen F.

The above illustration is a high-level overview of the image signal path from the lens to the SD card. It was designed to highlight only the information that benefits photographers. Most hobby photographers don't know that we manage sensor saturation and SNR with the aperture and shutter speed combo or that the ISO function amplifies the image signal from the sensor. Without actively using the flowchart, a better understanding of the digital imaging process is enough to improve your photography. The flowchart highlights the roles of the lens, the sensor, the TruePic image processor, and Workspace in the image creation process. See my articles for more about OM System and Olympus.

The Olympus Imaging Business always highlighted the significance of the lens, the sensor, the TruePic image processor, firmware, and the benefits of Workspace. It is important to understand why each of these components is equally important in the image creation process. The digital exposure triangle and the image signal flowchart also help us to evaluate Olympus and new OM System cameras. Each new product from OM System (Olympus) is part of a complete photography solution.

We can spend days on the image signal flowchart. Focusing on the critical parts, we know the sensor records grayscale image data, and the TruePic image processor turns that data into a color image. For example, it takes the sensor’s grayscale tonal data, combines it with the color information from the RGB filter array, applies the selected white balance, and reconstructs a full color or the Olympus "Kodak image look" through interpolation, tonal rendering, and color mapping. Olympus (OM System) users have access to the TruePic image processor via the creative dial and Workspace.

The cameras that differentiate creative photographers from enthusiasts and pro's.

What do we learn about these cameras when we evaluate the above data with the image signal flowchart?

Let's review the Olympus Pen E-P series, the Pen-F, and the OM-3.

The Pen E-P range is similar to the E-M5 range from Olympus, and the Pen E-PL (light) range is similar to the E-M10 range. Olympus targeted different customer segments with OM-D and PEN cameras. The Pen F and the OM-3 are special with their high-quality metal finishes and their creative and advanced features. The Pen F targeted the creative photographer, whereas the E-M5 II and the E-M1 II target enthusiast and professional photographers. OM System's product differentiation is not that clear at this stage. The OM-3 seems to replace the Pen F in the OM System lineup, while the OM-1 II and the OM-5 II are excellent enthusiast and professional cameras. If these product patterns and timeline characteristics hold, we might see an entry-level E-M 10 IV and an OM-1 III in 2026.

Image quality is one of the most complex subjects to quantify because we do not have an inclusive image quality standard. We know Olympus did not use image quality to differentiate between OMD and Pen cameras. It's also fair to ask if newer cameras have better image quality. While the quick answer is yes, I will not hesitate to use older cameras in 2026. The image quality of modern cameras improves as a result of higher-efficiency sensors and more advanced image processors.

Olympus E-P2 with the original M.Zuiko 14-42mm f3.5-f5.6 lens. I converted the raw file in Workspace.

Having used all the cameras in the Pen E-P series, it was easy to select some raw files from my image collection. I never thought Workspace would become my primary raw converter. The similarities when converting these RAW files with Workspace are worth mentioning, especially knowing that I haven't used some of these cameras in a while. My connection to these cameras is therefore the RAW file. I would be happy using any of these Pen cameras, ranging from the E-P3 to the OM-3, in 2026.

The press releases of the above cameras are an excellent source of information. I also use AI to search for specific information. It is, however, important to ask AI services like ChatGPT to avoid information from sources that repeat the commercial "bigger is better" or "size and capture" theory. That explains why it's such a joy to rediscover the evolution of M43 cameras through Olympus press releases. They offer a great window into R&D priorities, strategic developments, and new features.

The best way to rediscover Olympus cameras is to avoid forums and camera reviews. Each of these cameras was a masterpiece and special in its own way. It's interesting how difficult it has become to find some of them secondhand. Download the press releases from Olympus and study them. Those of you who like to know what it means to focus on all aspects of digital photography should have one of these PEN EP cameras to rediscover Olympus and their unique "sum of parts" strategy.

The Olympus Pen E-P3 from 2011

The Pen E-P3 was the final Olympus 13 MP camera, ranging from DSLRs to MFT cameras. The Pen E-P1 and E-P2 were the first MFT cameras from Olympus and were associated with quality and vivid image colors. They were, however, not as responsive as their DSLR counterparts, the E-30 and the E-620. The sensor's noise floor was also larger on older 13MP (FT) sensors. The EP-3 is a special camera with its new 13 MP sensor and TruePic VI image processor. It is not only more responsive but also elevated the Olympus PEN EP series as a more premium range of mirrorless cameras.

A brief summary from the Olympus PEN E-P3 press release:

• The E-P3 was the first M43 camera with a TruePic VI image processor.
• The Pen E-P3 also received a new and faster 13MP Live MOS sensor.
• The E-P3 has a beautiful metal body with a 3-inch OLED touch display.
• Higher processing speeds from the new sensor and Truepic combination.
• The TruePic VI has faster processing times plus better image processing.
• The FAST AF system is 2X faster (120 fps) than previous 13 MP sensors.
• The E-P3 has several ART filter, Live Guide, and video improvements.
• The E-P3 has a more advanced Shadow Adjust (ASAT) and tonal options.
• The E-P3 has more advanced detail processing and real color technology.
• The E-P3 user interface and menu system were completely redesigned.

There are more interesting improvements to the Olympus Pen E-P3. I highly recommend you study the E-P3 press release. The OM-D E-M1, E-M5, and Pen E-P3 were part of the Olympus offer from 2011 to 2013, and the E-P3 was a benchmark that set the stage for the future of Olympus cameras.

Olympus Pen E-P3 with the M.Zuiko 12-50mm EZ f3.5-6.3 lens. I converted the Enhanced Raw File in Workspace.

The Olympus PEN E-P3 is indeed a special camera. While the newer E-M5 was a huge development and one of the most exciting M43 cameras, I will never forget how much I enjoyed photographing with the E-P3 before selling it in 2014. I was fortunate to find another one in good condition in 2024. While disappointing, I continued using my E-P3 when the IBIS unit stopped working in 2025.

It would be easy to recommend the E-P3 as a must-have option for Olympus enthusiasts if it weren't for the known IBIS issue. The E-P3 was such a unique camera that I would consider a factory repair if it weren't for newer and even more exciting Olympus M43 cameras. Interestingly, the E-PL3 and the E-PM1 have the same sensor and TruePic VI combo as the E-P3. The official Olympus policy was to offer the same image quality for all their camera models. See the E-PL3 press release.

Olympus E-P3 with the M.Zuiko 12mm f2.0 lens. Raw file converted in Workspace.

E-P3 with the 12mm f2 lens. Raw file converted in Workspace

Olympus E-P3 with the M.Zuiko 12mm f2.0 lens. Raw file converted in Workspace.

E-P3 with the 12mm f2 lens. Raw file converted in Workspace.

Olympus E-P3 with the M.Zuiko 12mm f2.0 lens. Raw file converted in Workspace.

The Olympus Pen E-P5 from 2013

Olympus launched the PEN E-P5 during one of the most exciting times for M43 cameras. The E-M5 was introduced in 2012 with a new 16 MP sensor, the TruePic VI processor, and 35 AF points. The E-M1 came in 2013 with an excellent sensor, the TruePic VII processor, 81 AF points, and a combination of phase-detect and contrast-detect autofocusing. The E-M1 and the E-P5 were the first M43 cameras with a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000th. The first E-M10 followed in 2014, and the E-M5 II in 2015. Fuji and Sony introduced their first mirrorless cameras in 2013, while Canon and Nikon promoted the idea that DSLRs and optical viewfinders are the future for professional photographers.

A brief summary from the Olympus PEN E-P5 press release:

• The E-P5 was launched in 2013 as a flagship model in the PEN series.
• Olympus introduced the E-P5 in the fifth year of digital PEN cameras.
• The E-P5 was the last M43 camera with a TruePic VI image processor.
• The Pen E-P5 also received a new and faster 16MP Live MOS sensor.
• The Pen E-P5 continued the PEN "premium quality portable" concept.
• Premium features included dual controls and a 1M-dot tilt-type display.
• The E-P5 offered new Wi-Fi, mobile app features, and remote controls.
• The 16 MP sensor and Truepic VI combo had higher processing speeds.
• The TruePic VI delivered excellent results with the E-P3 and the E-M5.
• The E-P5 had several ART filter, Live Guide, and video enhancements.
• The E-P5 had more advanced Shadow Adjust (ASAT) and tonal controls.
• The E-P5 benefited from the image quality improvements of the E-M5.
• The E-P5 also benefited from the AF improvements found in the E-M5.

The PEN E-P5 was a popular and interesting camera for Olympus enthusiasts. Technically the E-P3 was more exciting, whereas esthetically and functionally the E-P5 became the more sought-after option. The E-P5 continued to shape the future of premium mirrorless cameras and the leadership role of Olympus in designing advanced computational and creative features for mirrorless cameras. It offered several new features, like a more advanced 5-Axis stabilization version introduced by the E-M5, Live TIME, and many popular features found in modern Olympus and OM System cameras. 

See the E-P3, E-M5, and E-P5 press releases.

Olympus E-P5 with the 14-52mm f3.5-5.6 EZ lens. Raw file converted in Workspace.

Olympus E-P5 with the 14-52mm f3.5-5.6 EZ lens. Raw file converted in Workspace.

Olympus E-P5 with the 14-52mm f3.5-5.6 EZ lens. Raw file converted in Workspace.

Olympus E-P5 with the 14-52mm f3.5-5.6 EZ lens. Raw file converted in Workspace.

The Olympus Pen F from 2016

The Pen F was the first Olympus MFT camera to introduce a 20MP Live MOS sensor. It was also the first camera with a full commercial version of the creative color strategy. Workspace, the E-P7, and the OM-3 share that same creative functionality. Similar to the 40MP high-resolution mode of the E-M5 II, the Pen F received a new 50MP version. As people get better at questioning social media comments about the high-resolution mode, they also learn about the efficiency gains of using 20MP sensors with an optional high-resolution mode. DxOMark offers the most reliable test data because they evaluate "good" versus "acceptable" image quality. The high-resolution gains are so effective that they would need a separate lab test to quantify the acceptable versus good image quality improvements.

Like the E-M1X, competitors saw the benefits cameras like the E-P3, the E-M1, and the Pen F offer M43 photographers. The countermarketing campaign that followed included repetition, astroturfing, scandals, betrayal, book deals, and intensifying the commercial "bigger is better" or "size and capture" commercial program. Counter-marketing campaigns like these typically reach a crescendo with new MFT products, like the E-M1X, the Pen F, the EM5 II/III, the OM-1, or the OM-3.

A brief summary from the Olympus PEN F press release:

• The Pen F was introduced as an Olympus rangefinder-style camera in 2016.
• The new 20MP Live MOS sensor has several benefits - see the press release.
• The Pen F has the same TruePic VII processor as the E-M1 and the E-M5 II.
• The TruePic VII processor and the 20MP Live MOS sensor have:
• Improved decolorization that occurs at higher ISO values.
• Improved the camera's response times and AF speeds.
• The better Fine Detail II image processing technology.
• Moire-removing processing with no low-pass filter.
• Improved lens, sensor, and processing integration.
• A new 5-axis sync IS technology with up to 5 EV IBIS.
• 2.36 million dot OLED EVF with an OVF simulation option.
• Monochrome and color profile control (Creative Dial).
• Much improved tonal control and Enhanced Raw Format.
• See the Pen F, E-M1, and E-M5 II press releases for more.

The two features standing out from the speed and efficiency improvements of the new 20 MP sensor and TruePic VII combo are the new color and monochrome options. Whereas the industry standard is global color adjustments, the Pen F was the first mirrorless camera to target and control individual colors. What made this functionality more unique were Workspace and the Enhanced Raw Format. The Pen F was also the first camera to receive direct access to the image and color creation processes of Workspace and TruePic image processing. I am always surprised at the few Olympus and OM System photographers that know and appreciate the creative freedom we have with these cameras...

Pen F with the 17mm f1.8 lens. Raw, Workspace, and Grainy Film II ART filter.

Olympus Pen F with a Lensbaby lens. I converted the raw file in Workspace.

Pen F with the 25mm f1.8 lens. Raw edited in Workspace. (Monochrome Profile)

Pen F with the M.Zuiko 12mm f2 lens. I converted the raw file in Workspace.

Pen F with the 17mm f1.8. Raw, Workspace, and Monochrome.

Pen F with the M.Zuiko 42mm f1.8 lens. I converted the raw file in Workspace.

The Olympus Pen E-P7 from 2021 is a keeper...

The PEN E-P7 is one of the most exciting cameras in the PEN EP series. Experienced photographers get a fast and highly capable creative beast, while casual photographers are eased into the art of creative photography with Olympus or OM System. What makes this such a unique camera is the 20MP Live MOS sensor and a faster (3.5X) TruePic VIII image processor. The basic menu and user-friendly UI of the PEN E-P7 are brilliant. The Advanced (computational) Photo (AP) menu plus the available options in the different shooting modes make the E-P7 a perfect camera for those creative photographers that like to tweak their camera settings in Workspace and their E-P7, Pen F, and OM-3 cameras.

The E-P7 makes it easy to visualize the Olympus R&D and marketing teams concluding, "We don't need more," while finalizing the menu and user interface of the Pen E-P7. They understood exactly what the creative photographer wanted while designing a perfect everyday camera. The Olympus E-P7 will continue to be one of the most popular and human-centric creative tools of the future.

I always thought it was better to practice your creative color skills than to rely on other people's color profiles. It's that final 5% touch of tweaking the color, monochrome, or tonal curve that makes the difference between a masterpiece or just another AI-style creation. The Pen E-P7 offers that perfect balance that is necessary to enable the experienced and creative photographer.

The monochrome profile function of the Pen F, the E-P7, and the OM-3 is different from anything else I have seen. For example, the standard monochrome picture mode and the color filters in Workspace are different from the monochrome profile function. The more I practice and familiarize myself with these Color and Monochrome profile functions, the more I apply them while photographing.

One of my favorite features of the TruePic VIII processor is the cluster autofocusing function. For example, the cluster AF function does a great job of selecting the right focus points while optimizing the depth of field benefit of M43 cameras. The Olympus super control panel (SCP) also simplifies the selection of different focusing options, such as cluster or single autofocussing points.

See this article about the Olympus Pen E-P7.

Pen E-P7 with the M.Zuiko 17mm f2.8 lens. I converted the raw file with Workspace.

Olympus E-P7 with the 17mm f2.8 lens. Raw converted in Workspace.

E-P7 with the 17mm f2.8 lens. Raw converted in Workspace. (Vintage 1 ART filter)

E-P7 with the 17mm f2.8 lens. Raw, Workspace, Monochrome.

E-P7 with the 17mm f2.8 lens. Raw, Workspace, Monochrome.

Pen E-P7 with the M.Zuiko 9-18mm f4-5.6 lens. I converted the raw file in Workspace.

Pen E-P7 with the M.Zuiko 17mm f2.8 lens. Raw, Workspace, and Vivid Picture Mode.

The OM System OM-3 from 2025

The best way to get to know someone is to spend time with them. The same applies to manufacturers like Olympus and OM System. The worst thing one could do is listen to random opinions. These basics taught me a lot while studying publicly available information like annual financial reports and press releases from companies like Olympus, OM System, Panasonic, and the full-frame collective. I have spent hours over the past 7 years getting to know Olympus, OM System, and digital cameras.

The common theme in Olympus press releases is highlighting the roles of the lens, the sensor, and the TruePic processor. See the following edited quotes from the E-M1 press release: "The combination of the newly developed TruePic VII processor and the new 16MP Live MOS sensor produces better image quality with less noise at higher ISOs" or "Focusing on the 3 main elements of image quality (the lens, imaging sensor, and image processor), the absolute best possible image quality is available with the new Olympus OM-D E-M1." These basic principles are very different from the social media opinion that FF sensors are better because the sensor is ultimately responsible for image quality.

The question of whether the OM System OM-3 is a worthy successor to the Pen F becomes clear when we evaluate the OM-3 with these basic principles. It is an exercise each photographer should try because the information in press releases is so much that I wouldn't know what to highlight for your specific needs. I listed a few points you could use while reading press releases:

• The image signal flow diagram was designed to clarify these basic principles.
• I think it was a brilliant decision to place the OM-1 II in the new OM-3 body.
• The new Stacked 20MP BSI sensor was a major upgrade to the Pen F sensor.
• The TruePic X is more than 8X faster and more powerful than the TruePic VII.
• We have an excellent selection of high-quality M.Zuiko lenses for the OM-3.
• I highly recommend NOT to use Lumix lenses for critical OM-3 applications.
• Like the Pen F, the OM-3 is a lovely camera, plus it has good weather sealing.
• The best OM-3 press release is the one used with the Olympus OM-1 launch.

Tip: The TruePic VIII was 3.5X faster than the VII, and the TruePic X is 3X faster than the IX. 

Folks, I compared the OM-3's EVF to other Olympus cameras in my collection like the E-M5, the E-M5 II, and the E-M10 II, plus cameras like the E-M1 III and the E-M5 III. I couldn't find anything to criticize about the new OM-3 EVF. In fact, I prefer the bright and clearer EVF of the OM-3. I don't know if the optical elements in the EVF are better because OM System doesn't share much information.

OM-3 with Lumix 45-175mm f4-f5.6 lens. Raw converted with Workspace.

OM-3 + Lumix 45-175mm lens. Raw converted with Workspace.

OM-3 + Lumix 45-175mm lens. Raw converted with Workspace.

OM-3 with the Lumix 45-175mm lens. Raw, Workspace, and ART Filter.

OM-3 + M-Zuiko 25mm f1.8 lens. Raw + Workspace.

OM-3 + M.Zuiko 18mm f1.8 lens. Raw, Workspace, Monochrome.

OM-3 + M.Zuiko 25mm f1.8 lens. Raw, Workspace, and ART Filter.

Conclusion.

I would have been happy with the Pen E-P series if I were as comfortable with digital cameras and the role of modern marketing as I am today. The PEN E-P series is almost perfect for creative photography enthusiasts. Think of the Pen EP series as everyday memory makers. They are perfect for day-to-day photographers looking for a flexible M43 camera and lens with excellent image quality.

The preparation of the images for this article was so much fun. I think it's a combination of going back in time and the natural conversion and editing results I get with Workspace and Affinity photo. It took a while, but I don't even think of Adobe Photoshop when I edit my converted raw files.

What about autofocusing? Beware of those claiming this brand or camera's AF is better. Technically, the OM-3's autofocusing technology is more advanced than any MFT camera I used. That said, I prefer the focusing options of the E-P7, the E-M10 VI, the E-M5 III, and the E-M1 III. It all depends on what kind of photography we do and how much experience we have with a specific brand.

As a final comment, considering the OM-1 and OM-3 stacked BSI 20 MP sensors, we are enjoying huge efficiency benefits with Olympus' image sensors, TruePic processors, and lenses. See my articles for more info. As little as 5% of all modern photography applications need more than 20MP.

See this interesting video, plus FF fanboys, discussing the benefits of Pro lenses.

Best

Siegfried

Are full-frame cameras better than M43 cameras?

Last updated:- 7th February 2026

A personal experience with M43 cameras changes everything. Full-frame marketers prefer to prevent that with theories like "bigger is better." For example, why should I buy an OM-5 II or the OM-3 if they are inferior to full-frame cameras? It has become almost normal for respected influencers to suggest that M43 cameras have inferior image quality. There are also several videos suggesting that the high-resolution function is inferior to 40 MP or higher FF cameras. Why would people think OM Workspace is inferior to the commercial RAW converters from Adobe and DxO? Shouldn't the logical alternative be to convert your high-resolution RAW files with Workspace or the TruePic X image processor, especially with the new and improved PC-RAW mode of the OM-3, OM-1 Mk I/II, and Workspace?

The E-M5 III (OM-5) with the M.Zuiko 12-45mm f4 pro, 17mm f1.8, and 75mm f1.8 lenses is an excellent day or low-light option.

It's concerning that we don't have basic guidelines to "manage" modern digital cameras. The guidelines we do have are an outdated analog exposure triangle and the "bigger is better" theory. It should be normal to have a digital exposure triangle supporting technical aspects like sensor saturation and ISO amplification. The analog exposure triangle, "size and capture," and "ISO sensitivity" guides disregard the differences between the technical and optical aspects of digital cameras. Modern photographers will benefit from practical guides like the digital exposure triangle and an image-signal flow diagram. For example, it should be normal for modern photographers to manage optical controls like DOF and technical controls like sensor saturation and image signal amplification (ISO) in 2026.

Goto my Page Menu or open this link for the full article.

My home studio layout continues to evolve...

Last update:- 11th January 2026

One of the more exciting photography applications is home studios and product photography. It's also a treat to watch product photographers advising others on how to grow successful businesses with a "perfect" home studio. These vary from a basic mobile phone to professional product studios. I have been working on a more flexible home studio and lighting configuration after years with a small off-the-shelf home studio. I upgraded the standard lighting to two Olympus FL600 flashlights, which gave me more control in RC mode when placing them in the right positions for product shoots. I had little freedom with this studio and wanted a new layout with more configuration options.

This basic off-the-shelf home studio was a gift from my dear wife.

My son and I talked about photography and other while spending a day together in December. He told me about a training session he did with an experienced group of photographers. The focus was studio layouts and creating a specific mood or atmosphere with studio lights. Being interested in the subject, I couldn't wait to try some of the techniques he mentioned in our conversation. A few days later we enjoyed an eventful Christmas Day as a family with grandchildren, presents, dinner, and me sharing some of the photos I created with my improved home studio and lighting setup.

Olympus E-450 and the Zuiko 50mm f2 macro lens. (ISO100, f3.5, 1/100)

My son didn't say much about my photos other than suggesting a quick hands-on session while waiting for dinner. He shared more basics and creative ideas on studio lighting and how it relates to outdoor conditions. He was using my OM System OM-3, while I tried the older Olympus E-450 before and after our hands-on session. The children had fun creating handmade shadows on the backdrop...

OM System OM-3 and the M.Zuiko 25mm f1.8 lens. (ISO3200, f3.5, 1/125)

I thought the image quality of the E-450 was way better than what most would have expected. What made my OM-3 an appropriate choice is its high-sensitivity BSI sensor and pro-level features. The OM-3 made it easier to capture excellent shots with better framing and creative angles. For example, the OM-3 photos were all handheld, whereas the E-450 lived on my tripod most of the time.

One of the interesting outcomes experimenting with home studios and new studio lighting options is how much I needed to learn about color, light, and product photography.

A few shots with the OM-3 and the SmallRig RM01 Kit before our Christmas dinner. (An example of the photographer's eye)

One typically expects large image quality differences between the OM-3 and the E-450, considering social media claims about newer and high-resolution cameras. The OM-3 photos should literally jump off your PC's display with its newer sensor and double the resolution of the older E-450. It's amusing to watch "trusted influencers" desperately repeating the full-frame sales pitch as they refuse to accept M43 image quality results while reviewing OM System cameras like the OM-5 II and the OM-3.

The E-M10 IV (SCN mode: Snow) with the M.Zuiko 12 - 45mm f4 Pro lens. The perfect weekend for my new home studio...

We know that OM System does not have entry-level cameras. Some would like us to think the OM-5 II is an entry-level camera, while knowing the E-M10 IV and E-P7 are more appropriate candidates. The OM System OM-5 II is simply a repackaged pro-level E-M1 III. A slightly improved and rebranded E-P7 and E-M10 IV have the potential to be great upgrade options for used compact owners.

One of my older home studio variations. What does your favorite home studio configuration look like?

It was a process to create a working home studio layout for my future needs. For example, you will see a different studio configuration in each of my images. Study my new studio layout below and how it gives me more control as I plan and frame my shots. Many of you will spot improvements I could consider while viewing my photos. What would you like to see from a new product studio?

You will find several similarities to modern AI and editing trends as you study my included photos. For example, those photos taken with a studio light pointing down are typically flat or two-dimensional. Experienced photographers develop a so-called photographer's eye, which helps them to use optimum camera angles and the right mix of natural-flowing highs, midtones, and shadows. AI masking and AI-generated images often fail to preserve these critical three-dimensional elements.

Secondhand cameras are one of the more exciting ways to rediscover and reconnect with photography and older Olympus cameras. It's a simple process of highlighting digital photography pioneers and the unique digital features they designed for older and modern digital cameras. While it's challenging to sell older DSLRs in 2026, I found they are excellent when sharing our passion for digital photography with the next generation of photographers. One such example is the E-450 from 2009.

I have bought only a few new cameras and accessories over the years. I also saved because I rotate the camera gear I use for articles and learning purposes. For example, I've been testing those popular "everyone agrees" claims promoters use when pushing better image quality. I continue to disagree with everyone after studying the test results from a carefully selected group of used cameras. I sold most of these tested cameras, improved my home studio, and saved the change...

The Olympus E-450 is an exciting DSLR from 2009. Many question the relevance of used mirrorless and older DSLR cameras. My experience rediscovering DSLRs like the E-3, E-450, E-30, and the Canon 6D II was surprisingly positive. A personal experience makes it harder to trust social media influencers making negative comments about used or micro four-thirds (M43) cameras.

The E-M5 III, M.Zuiko 25mm f1.8, Rotolight Illuminator, and the Olympus FL900 in RC mode. Is this a possible option?

Changing from an off-the-shelf home studio to a completely different studio configuration was a game changer. The entire room is now a potential product studio. It does take a little planning to set it up for different product shoots. Product photography seems to quickly become complex but is also very rewarding. See this video from the Tin House Studio in the UK. It wouldn't surprise me if features like high-resolution mode and focus stacking benefit M43 product photographers.

The TruePic image processor, Workspace, and a gray card is a winning combo.

The deeper depth-of-field (DOF) advantage of M43 cameras is a huge plus for product photographers. Another M43 advantage is lower ISOs at equivalent apertures. It simply means M43 cameras need lower ISOs at equivalent apertures or the same DOF as FF cameras. In other words, FF photographers will select an aperture of F11, and M43 photographers F5.6 for an equivalent or matching DOF. Micro four-thirds cameras therefore have a 2X advantage over FF cameras for landscape, macro, wildlife, or product photography. That also means lower ISOs or 2X less noise at an equivalent DOF. The SNR will improve because a lower ISO means more reflected light exposing the sensor...

See this article for more on the ISO-to-SNR ratio.

This is my 3-studio light configuration with my EM-1 III and OM Capture.

I coudn't find much on social media about product photography with Olympus or OM System. Marketers like to categorize cameras for wildlife, landscape, sport, and studio photography. I don't think hobby photographers benefit much from anything marketers label as appropriate. The above image shows a home studio scene with my Olympus E-M1 III, Macbook Pro, and OM Capture. Not all Olympus or OM System cameras are compatible with OM Capture. Surprisingly, the E-M5 II is on the list.

The E-M1 III with the 12 - 40mm f2.8 pro lens. (ISO800, f2.8, 1/60) This image benefitted from the deeper M43 DOF and ISO to SNR ratio.

Taken with the Olympus E-450 and the Zuiko 50mm f2 macro lens. (ISO200, f5.0, 1/2)

OM System OM-5 with the M.Zuiko12-45mm f4 lens. I used Workspace to process this "detailed" high-res RAW file.

Taken with the Olympus E-450 and the Zuiko 50mm f2 macro lens. (ISO100, f4.5, 1/2)

This was a quick illustration with more creative ideas for the future...

Olympus E-M1 III with the amazing M.Zuiko 12 - 40mm f2.8 Pro lens. (ISO800, f2.8, 1/50)

Taken with the Olympus E-450 and the Zuiko 50mm f2 macro lens and a studio light pointing down. (ISO400, f5.0, 1/50)

Taken with the E-M5 III and the M.Zuiko 25mm f1.8 lens. (ISO800, f3.5, 1/60)

OM System OM-3 and the M.Zuiko 25mm f1.8 lens. (ISO3200, f3.5, 1/125, Workspace AI noise reduction)

Taken with the Olympus E-450 and the Zuiko 50mm f2 macro lens. (ISO100, f4.5, 1/5)

Taken with the Olympus E-450 and the Zuiko 50mm f2 macro lens. (ISO100, f5, 1/6)

OM System OM-5 with the M.Zuiko 12-45mm f4 lens. Workspace, High-res shot, and Monochrome profile.

Taken with the Olympus E-450 and the 50mm f2 Zuiko macro lens. (ISO100, f4.5, 1/1.6)

Taken with the Olympus E-450 and the Zuiko 50mm f2 macro lens. (ISO100, f4.5, 1/2)

Taken with the E-450 and the Zuiko 50mm f2 macro lens and a studio light pointing down. (ISO400, f3.5, 1/50)

Taken with the Olympus E450 and the Zuiko 50mm f2 macro lens. (ISO100, f4.5, 1/2)

Taken with the Olympus E-450 and the Zuiko 50mm f2 macro lens. (ISO200, f5.0, 1/1.6)

Taken with the Olympus E-450 and the Zuiko 50mm f2 macro lens. (ISO100, f4, 1/2)

Taken with the E-450 and the Zuiko 50mm f2 lens and a studio light pointing down. How did I switch on the motorcar's lights?