Video basics and modern digital cameras

Last updated:- 27th April 2024 (New information and several updates)

Introduction.

I decided to invest more time in videography with Olympus M43 cameras after an increased interest in my introductory article on videography. My articles discussing image sensors, digital cameras, and subjects like exposure formed a strong foundation for exploring the video creation process with M43 cameras. This and future articles are written for those who are new to videography.

We all appreciate the difference between a Toyota Aygo and a Porsche 911. They are profound when driving fast on a German AutoBahn. One often assumes the differences between cameras are similar when listening to YouTube presenters. For example, one of my articles discovered surprisingly tiny differences between sensors with up to 20 times pixel area variances. We, unfortunately, see a high level of exaggeration when discussing video specs, sensor size, and videography needs...

My wife and I transferred our VHS video collection onto DVD. We enjoy watching them with our son and his family. Imagine your grandchildren see their father learning to ride a bicycle on an old VHS video. I never experienced the same fun recording and watching videos on my mobile phone. There was something special about creating memories of family and my old VHS video camera. The new Olympus E-M5 II was exciting and a huge inspiration when Olympus launched it in 2015. I made many short videos with my DJI Phantom P3, the Olympus EM5 II, and Premier Elements.

Did you own a VHS? I like to see marketers re-focus on consumer segments?

Modern marketing has become a window into the so-called "perfect" world. A world where cows don't fart, and everyone uses 8K hybrid cameras. One can't help wondering if marketers purposely neglect that large segment of casual video creators. Eager to learn, my enthusiasm faded as I watched YouTubers crying for new menus and more specs. The E-M5 II suddenly had to have 4K, and Premier Elements wasn't good enough. I needed a 6K hybrid FF mirrorless camera, 8 stops of IBIS (no crop), autofocusing like Sony or Canon, 4.2.2 10-bit (Pro-Ress RAW), mic plus headphone ports, and a host of LOG profiles plus LUTs before I could even start thinking about my next video project. 

This short video illustrates this "perfect" world...

Olympus EM1 III with the 75mm f1.8 lens - ISO1250, f4.5, 1/15 - Enhanced Raw converted in Workspace.

Another option was to simply return to basics...

Taking a step back, one quickly realizes how accurately the Olympus Imaging Division targeted hobby and home video creators. Cameras like the original EM5 and EM1 continue to fill that gap as capable photography cameras while supporting those developing their videography skills. Take a moment and list the main video differences between Olympus M43 cameras from 2012 to 2024. 

It's, therefore, critical to familiarize yourselves with the basics of videography before purchasing your next full-frame 8K hybrid mirrorless camera. For example, many photographers think "hybrid" means two different camera systems in the same body. Many photographers also assume the image signal path from the scene to the saved recording changes from photography to videography.

Study this video for a detailed explanation of the illustration below.

What are the differences between photography and videography? Considering Step 1 (above), the same principles of saturating the sensor or improving the SNR apply. The basics of managing video quality and dynamic range while capturing more tonal data are the same. The main difference is how we manage the 4 exposure variables in video mode. Looking at Step 2, the camera's image signal processing does not change between photography and videography. The main difference is Olympus added more options like the Flat or OM-400-Log to tweak the camera's Gamma Curve. Looking at Step 3, the main difference is the file format creators select for video or photography.

The above illustration also helps us understand V-LOG profiles and "Color Grading." For example, when filming in V-LOG, one needs a LUT to convert the recording to a REC 709 display format. Color grading is similar to image editing or creating a specific look and feel for your final video...

The Olympus Pen F and E-P7 enable us to create "Flat" video (exposure) profiles plus "Color Grade" in the camera.

We will explore the following in this series about videography:

1. A short overview of the Olympus M43 menu selections for video.
2. What does one typically need to create videos with M43 cameras?
3. We will focus on tips and techniques when recording video clips.
4. Basic principles of taking video clips and creating/editing a video.

Conclusion

This series of articles will support those new to filming with Olympus mirrorless cameras. I planned more time for future articles discussing frame rates, aspect ratios, the 180-degree shutter rule, the need for ND filters, camera movements, autofocusing techniques, and video editing.

The above illustration is only an educated guess of the most likely market situation...

What is the size of the videography segment? Did camera manufacturers fail to treat mobile phone manufacturers as competitors, and the reason we never saw a segmented product strategy? Instead, the appearance is to always push for a "perfect" Pro Camera? A great example is the Panasonic G100. When launched, this small hybrid camera was highly criticized because reviewers and promoters could not position this Panasonic in the "pro" segment or intelligently discuss its scope of application. The G100 was only accepted once the target segment discovered it on the used market...

An example of creating lasting memories with an older 20MP Olympus EM5 III...

Don't let YouTube "Pro Talk" or social media promoters distract you. Your Olympus camera is perfect for videography. Olympus M43 cameras are great for film projects and those planning to return to filming with M43 mirrorless cameras. We will review several Olympus cameras in this series...

How much of a difference does size make?

Last Update: 4th April 2024

Introduction.

My son said I may try his Sony ZV-E1 while he tried my Fuji XT-5. The Sony ZV-E1 uses the same 12MP FF BSI sensor as the Sony A7S III. A camera like this should be tested. I would have liked to include my Fuji XT-5. The test results are exciting and reveal much about what to expect from various cameras. For example, the Sony ZV-E1 pixel area is 5 times larger than the Olympus E-M1 III and almost 20 times larger than the Olympus XZ-2. How much do these pixel area differences impact the IQ of these cameras? What should we look for, and how will you test these cameras?

Sensor Sensitivity is determined by the Optical and Quantum efficiencies of the pixels. That means larger pixels should capture more light and convert more photons into electrons, right? The secret is to study shadow details because more sensitive sensors capture more info in the shadows. How many shadow detail variances do you expect to find between the Sony ZV-E1 and the older Olympus XZ-2? While I am not testing for noise, what do you expect to find between these 2 cameras? Those studying my articles have enough information and knowledge to evaluate these questions.

I included several Olympus cameras in this test. We can learn much from the different pixel areas of these cameras. For example, the pixel area of the Olympus E-1 is 3 times larger than the EM1 III. It is sometimes easier to simulate sensor differences with the equipment you have...

Why do golfers use a handicap? It lets experienced and weaker golfers play competitively. It's safe to say equivalence is often applied like a golf handicap. That means equivalence sets unnecessary restrictions on M43 photographers. Do we need a handicap to evaluate cameras? Each camera is unique and should get a chance to showcase its capabilities. The only variable that should be the same is the test studio. I applied this basic philosophy to the test images further down.

Preparing the Test Studio

The test image had a 4EV variance between the brightest and darkest parts. Each exposure was set at the brightest point with the camera's spot meter. Each sensor's Saturation and SNR levels were 4 stops lower in the shadows. Study the photons to electrons graph in this article for more about sensor saturation and SNR levels. Every digital photographer should know this graph...

Every sensor is technically different. This knowledge helps us to plan our camera tests correctly. One typically focuses on pixel area and not sensor size when evaluating the technical aspects of image sensors. Sensor size only determines the optical characteristics of the camera. I created the following chart to help you study the different pixel areas of the tested cameras.

The chart shows each sensor's megapixels in red. For example, go to the 12MP FF sensor on the horizontal axis and compare its pixel area to the 12MP (1/1.7") sensor on the vertical axis. We can compare all the sensors in this chart. That means we are focussing on pixel area and not size! For example, how much will the Olympus E1 shadow details differ from the Olympus E-M1 III?

Sensor size is a marketing tool used to entice those with little knowledge. It's meaningless and tells us nothing about the sensor. For example, it's more effective to focus on the diagonal measurements of the sensor. The reason is the lens image circle has to cover the complete sensor. This explains the more light "effect" FF enthusiasts rave about or the equivalence factor when comparing the optical differences between M43, APC, and full-frame lens mounts. See the table below.

How should we study these controlled image quality tests on different sensor sizes and pixel areas? To prepare yourself, take a few moments, select a few cameras (pixel areas), and write down what you like to learn from these tests. For example, how many more shadow details do you expect from the 12MP full-frame sensor over the smaller 1/1.7" sensor? Also, study the Fuji X-T5 or Medium Format 100MP sensor and explain why their shadow details could technically be similar to the 20MP Olympus M43 sensor. Why is image noise a potential challenge for these two Fuji cameras..?

Olympus C-770UZ  (4MP) - ISO64, f3.2, 1/160 - OOC JPEG and not edited...

Let's study the different test images...

All the noise filters were off while taking 4 RAW files with each camera. The Olympus RAW files were converted in Workspace with no NR, and I used the Photoshop 2024 Raw Converter with no NR for the rest. I brightened the shadows to reveal the captured details of each camera. All the cameras were optimized to deliver better detail and IQ. One typically expects less visible noise from a saturated sensor with higher SNR values. That said, these test images are all about detail...

The test images are best viewed on a large display. Click on the first image...

What were my camera configurations? I used the 17mm f1.2 lens on my M43 cameras and the 50mm f2 macro lens on my 4/3rds DSLRs. The Canon 6D II had an EF 35mm f2.0 lens, and the Sony ZV-E1 had a 55mm f1.8 Zeiss lens. That means I used my tripod distance to the image to compensate for lower megapixel sensors and the different focal lengths. I used Manual Exposure with an Aperture of f3.5 or f4 on these cameras. I also used the 2s timer and +1EV ETTR on each camera.

I used the same white balance (marker) to convert the raw files.

Conclusion

You don't need an expert to tell you the Olympus XZ-2 and Sony ZV-E1 image results are very similar. For example, I couldn't find 20 times more image details for the Sony. That means the Olympus XZ-2's image details compared well to the Sony ZV-E1 with its 20 times larger pixel areas. The 20-year age difference between some cameras also didn't make a big difference. Finally, less than 100% pixel area differences seem insignificant. That means one can ignore the sensor sensitivity differences between M43 (Live MOS) and APC (Standard CMOS and BSI) sensors. What makes a real difference is knowledge, lens selections, and regularly using Workspace and one's Olympus camera.

I used the Olympus E-M1 II for years and the E-M1 III for +18 months. These are exceptional cameras with excellent IQ, speed, and functionality. The most fascinating part about them is the 20MP Live MOS sensor. I would love to see the specifications Olympus used to find this sensor.

What does one learn from this? We simply can't trust those repeating the same meaningless size and capture phrases. Photographers are rediscovering older cameras and image sensors. For example, the TruePic processors and 16MP sensors used in cameras like E-M1, E-PL9, E-M5 II, and E-M10 II/III deliver excellent results. You will get a better camera by evaluating functionality, speed, application, and form factor. Any camera is a joy in good light with good user experience and knowledge.

Those photographers who make a habit of developing their Enhanced Raw files and Image Editing skills have an advantage. The benefits of improving one's knowledge plus camera and editing skills are remarkable. I often write about the benefits of converting your Olympus Enhanced Raw Files in Workspace. Also, see this video reviewing the Enhanced Raw Format and Workspace.

See this article I did on 12MP versus 100MP printed samples.

Best Siegfried

Advanced Exposure Techniques and Workspace

Last updated:- 17th March 2024

Introduction

I lost my left arm in a motorcar accident and have been on pain medication ever since. It's difficult to say which is worse, losing my left arm or the opioid-based pain medication. My wife and I worked hard to reduce my pain medication, and we reached the point of cutting it completely. Those who followed my blog know how it benefitted me personally and my ability to write better articles.

I bought my first digital camera in 1998, which also started my craving for that perfect digital camera promoted by camera reviewers and social media experts. Breaking free from commercially biased theories, repetition, and the collective social media influence is similar to walking away from addictive medication. I can write a book about these processes and the similarities...

Olympus EM5 II with 25mm f1.4 Leica - ISO800, f3.2, 1/25 - Enhanced Raw File converted in WS. I used my ISO to control the highlights.

I use a simple strategy or rule when studying technical info. I reject any "interesting" information that does not improve my photography. My understanding and articles about digital cameras focus on information that improves the average photographer's image quality. My regular readers appreciate the benefits of marketing free camera knowledge. This is an ongoing learning experience...

The technical aspects of cameras interest me the most. My wife and I enjoy taking photos and using them in different projects. We love photography and regard ourselves as hobby photographers.

Fuji FinePix A201 (2MP) compact camera. ISO100, f4.5, 1/45 seconds. Slightly edited in Photoshop.

My focus in 2024 and onward...

The challenge of learning and growing the MyOlympuOMD blog impacted my recovery positively. I will continue to develop the blog and plan to focus on used Olympus cameras while we are waiting for a real OM-System camera. This includes exploring unique cameras like the Fuji XT-5, the Sony ZV-E1, the Panasonic GM-1, and the EP-7. I also plan to create more YouTube videos in 2024. 

My focus will be the following subjects for this blog and YouTube:

• Videography with basic principles, casual videos, and documentaries
• Digital camera knowledge and techniques improving our photography
• OM Workspace, the Enhanced Raw Format, and general photo editing
• I am planning to write informative articles on older Olympus cameras

My first two videos for 2024

I uploaded 2 YouTube videos over the past 8 days. They give an overview of my articles on exposure and Workspace and will benefit those who prefer watching a video. I will create shorter videos in the future that will focus on specifics. I am working on my sound quality and will have a solution for my next video. Please subscribe to my YouTube channel and post your thoughts in the comments.

Did you questioned the power of marketing...

Last Updated:- 11th March 2024

My wife showed me the following meme over breakfast. I enjoy the blog and the subjects we cover. I am also grateful for all the comments and emails. My blog views averaged record highs in 2023, and this year is a surprising WOW. Thank you all. I have no reason to complain. So why the notion to walk away from this blog? My wife and I received news about a healthy young mother having a sudden stroke. We saw what was coming in 2021/22 and said no, while many accepted everything without questions. I have a good feel for marketing and the power of repetition. I also studied various papers about mass formation (hypnosis) and how people are tricked into absurdity. The urge to walk away surges each time I see YouTube presenters repeating the same digital camera lines...

Paper straws or bags are part of an ongoing market survey. Why, many would say? How much does it take to survey large samples of the population? A short documentary is enough to highlight the plastic crisis in the ocean. Marketers know the population trusts their social media or TV talking heads when they accept absurdity. Self-appointed enforcers are also critical when measuring these surveys..?

The new Fuji X100VI compact camera

Last updated:- 23rd February 2024

Introduction.

Fujifilm's CEO, Teiichi Goto, announced the new X100VI high-end compact digital camera at a live X-Summit event in Tokyo on 20 February 2024. The Fuji X100VI is the 6th variation of the original X100 introduced in December 2010. The Fuji X100 series has a rich history as a high-end camera for those enthusiasts looking for a compact camera with film simulations and good image quality.

The new Fuji X100VI with IBIS and 40MP BSI sensor. The X100VI product page...

The new Fuji X100VI high-end compact camera

The Fuji X100 family of high-end compacts shares the unique X-Series look and feel and incremental improvements between models. The success of the X100 series is probably a result of consistency. Fuji X100V photographers know what can be expected from the new Fuji X100VI... 

Here is a short overview of the Fuji X100 family:

The X100 family is a range of high-end compact cameras. Many fine details like the viewfinder, ND filters, digital converters, Fuji film simulations, and many more made them a sought-after family of high-end compact cameras. Fujifilm also continues to deliver the augmented value photographers expect from a manufacturer with a history of designing and making photography equipment.

There's no reason why the X100VI should fail. It will be fun to follow this new high-end camera from Fuji. The Fuji marketing department is also respected for its consistent track record. Olympus and Fuji enjoy customer loyalty for their quality products and regular firmware updates. For example, the original X100 received significant firmware and AF updates months after the newer model.

The new Fuji X100VI (40MP) high-end compact camera.

The evolving macro environment and events of the past 3 years impacted consumer confidence and people queuing for the latest product releases. The photography segment also experienced subtle changes in the past 3 years. One of the most exciting changes is a young generation of photographers discovering used cameras like the original Fuji X100. Used cameras were never this popular.

Should one buy the X100VI? For example, does it offer enough improvements to prevent consumers from getting the more competitively priced and used X100V? Marketers are working hard to make people believe all photographers crop their photos. They won't say the older 26MP BSI sensor of the XT-4 and X100V has better low light and shadow performance than the new 40MP sensor.

The Olympus Pen-F with the 17mm f1.8 MZuiko lens.

Those who know sensor size and cropping are less critical than we're told evaluate more about the camera. One of the aspects experienced photographers evaluate is the manufacture of a camera. Fuji is an example of what photographers could expect when buying a camera. See this short video of a photographer upgrading to a new or "better" camera. He lists several good points to consider.

Most IQ differences are linked to the manufacturer's image processing preferences. Any measurable differences are often more distinct than the visual differences. The DxOMark image quality database is an example of measured differences. Any preference for a unique image look or supporting camera features is mostly manufacturer or brand-specific. It's best to first spend time with a camera...

Olympus launched the Pen-F in January 2016. It competed with the 16MP Fuji X100T. One shouldn't compare the X100 series with the Pen-F because the Pen-F is an interchangeable lens camera. The link to the Pen F is the creative, color, and high-end aspects of the Fuji X100 family. Although two radically different cameras, the Pen F and EP-7 are surprisingly competitive alternatives.

Conclusion

I have been playing with the idea of focusing on used cameras. I am also a long-term Olympus fanboy and have much joy with my aging Olympus collection. I bought my new Fuji X-T5 in January 2023 because Fuji is the closest to everything I value about my Olympus gear. Would you sell all your M43 equipment to buy a Fuji XT-5, or would you prefer to exclusively focus on the new X100VI?

I wrote an article in 2019 reviewing the EM5 III, the Olympus financial scandal, and the turnaround. Go read this short overview of Olympus from 2012 to 2020. The article raises several interesting facts and questions, like what moved Olympus to ignore a rich history of developing and manufacturing top-quality, innovative cameras and successfully manage a challenging turnaround?

The OMD EM5 III and Olympus Financial Scandal - link.

Best

Siegfried

A new OM-System Pen F II

Last Update:- 17th February 2023

Introduction.

I invite all Olympus photographers who enjoy creative, color, and monochrome profiles to come and dream with me about an OM-System Pen F II. I discussed my preliminary reasons for a real OM-System camera in my OM-1 II overview. OMS has a unique opportunity to design a Pen F II with an Advanced User Interface following the visionary design achievements of Olympus. While manufacturers did a great job of letting digital cameras feel more analog, the camera's user interface stagnated in the past 15 years. We mainly saw higher resolutions, flippy displays, and different menus.

Digital cameras use a basic display format with numerical Aperture, Shutter, and ISO values. This led to photographers accepting analog exposure techniques like the Exposure Triangle. For example, many digital photographers were told the ISO function adjusts sensor sensitivity. The key points of having a "new" electronic image sensor were never fully explained to digital photographers.

The Olympus SCP was a great idea from the 4/3 DSLR days. Picture source.

It's fascinating how manufacturers never applied the camera's sensor and CPU to assist photographers with advanced Graphical Displays and information like hyperfocal points, Aperture & Shutter speed effects, focus stacking, and flash photography. Modern motorcars are a great example of displaying relevant and processed data to the driver. For example, how often do we increase our ISO without realizing it's possible to gain +1EV by changing the focus and aperture combination? 

The new User Interface should display more processed info from the sensor and TruePix CPU. The Sensor Performance Meter and advanced features, like hyperfocal focus points and a DOF meter, are examples of a future User Interface. It should offer photographers more options for preparing their cameras. Study the article for more about the next generation of OM-System cameras.

The Sensor Performance Meter is based on the following:-

• Redesign the camera display but keep the aperture, shutter, and ISO dials.
• All image sensors have a Noise Floor that is independent of sensor size.
• We have some control over the SNR or the visibility of the Noise Floor.
• Shutter Speed, Aperture, and ISO are part of the Exposure Formula, BUT:
• The Aperture and Shutter control the light reaching (exposing) the sensor.
• The ISO amplifies the image signal, and sensor sensitivity is factory set. 
• We can improve our SNR (Sensor Saturation) by adding more light to the sensor.
• The reverse happens (more image noise) when the sensor receives less light...
• The camera's Auto Exposure (default) settings give us Good Image Quality. (D)
• The synergy between Enhanced Raw Files, OMS cameras, and WS is unbeatable.

Study this article for a more detailed explanation of the DxO "Image Quality Database."

Study this article for more on exposure and how to apply the ISO "Image Brightness."

Olympus photographers benefit most from a new Sensor Performance Meter because it improves the understanding of sensor saturation and image noise. It will also help OM-System to establish a new dynamic amongst photographers and exit the sensor size and autofocus cycle repeating itself with each new camera. See my OM-System OM-1 II overview for more about a new OMS camera...

How do we benefit from working with Sensor Saturation and ISO amplification? Because it's possible to manage the sensor separately from the ISO. This lets us think differently about the ISO, Aperture, and Shutter Speed. It opens new options, like using a saturated sensor to lower the ISO (image brightness) for more control over highlights. The ISO and Workspace EC slider are basically the same thing. That means we can set our final image brightness in Workspace. This is why the Sensor Performance Meter has an A/B display option for the camera. See this article for more...

What could the new OM-System camera be like?

The new OMS camera could be like the Pen F, EP-7, or Fuji X100V with the new User Interface and a low noise, high sensitivity 24MP BSI MOS sensor. The target segment should be street, family, travel, event, and hobby photographers. Focus on creative AI features versus AF AI solutions. The new camera's AF system should be a clever derivative of the EM1 III (OM-5) AF technology.

The focus should be creativity, flexibility, IQ, profiles, and a Workspace App for tablets and Mobiles. Study the unique needs of the target segment with new AI, computational, and creative features.

Here are some suggestions for the new camera:-

• Go back to high-quality metal camera bodies. Pls not like the Pen EP-7.
• Hue and Luminance options for the Color Adjust function in the camera.
• Add the Clarity and Dehaze sliders of Workspace to the camera's menu.
• Create a function that will copy and paste color information in Workspace.
• Rethink the ISO function by expanding its link to the Workspace EC slider.
• This camera should have a high-res EVF and display plus related features.
• The new Sensor Performance Meter simplifies sensor saturation and the ISO.
• A graphical DOF slider and AI focus options to optimize aperture selections.
• Flexible Tonal options (profiles) & AI options to tweak the Gamma Curve.
• Consider the following new AI options:-
• Landscape DOF automation (AI) plus control.
• Unique AI features for street photographers.
• People, family events, and children AI features.
• I am no macro guy. Do they have any AI ideas..?
• Focus AI on applications and NOT autofocusing.
• Build new creative communities to discuss and share info and color profiles.
• The focus should be flexibility, image quality, color, and communication.
• 8EV IBIS, Multi-Aspect Ratios, and super quick handheld 50MP High Ress.
• The TruePic IX or X image processor with social media vertical videos. 
• Design selective improvements for the Workspace video editing function.
• The video capabilities of this camera should be tailored for this segment.
• This is NOT a high-speed Pro Camera for bird and wildlife photographers.
• This should not be another "hybrid" camera. A photo camera with video...
• The simplicity of the Pen EP-7 is perfect. We need just a little more...
• Label this new OM-System camera a Pen-F II to accelerate its success...

Why would "size and capture" fanboys NEVER accept this illustration? Because it doesn't support their "size and capture" theory...

Conclusion

Each digital photographer should get the chance to learn more about digital cameras, especially the link between the image sensor, sensor saturation, SNR, exposure formula, and ISO amplification. In fact, it's disappointing when M43 photographers on YouTube say the analog Exposure Triangle is OK for planning your exposure or the ISO function adjusts sensor sensitivity. I can't help but question the seriousness of those ignoring the unique differences of digital cameras...

A helicopter overview of the Image Signal Path, Exposure Controller, and Workspace. Study this link.

Are you aware of the ongoing "grassroots" and social media action against DxOMark? I studied their camera ratings while prepping my recent article on their Image Quality Database. DxO is receiving overwhelmingly biased reactions from "size and capture" fanboys. Why the animosity? Because DxO does not support or promote the "size and capture" theory like many camera review sites. How do I know that? Study how DxO defines image quality (SNR). Is this why we had no test results on newer cameras from OM-System? My only interest in DxOMark is their IQ database. The last Olympus camera they tested was the Olympus EM1 II. It would be great to have more Olympus cameras tested...

Best

Siegfried

Let's talk about OM-System and the OM-1 II

Last update:- 14th February 2024

Introduction. 

How do you rate the past 3 years with OM-System? For example, do you expect to find engine parts in the Doctor's consulting room or a history lesson in math class? What do you like to see as you walk through the offices at OM-System? How will it compare to the previous Imaging Activity at Olympus? Do you expect to see a proper R&D facility or a marketing office with software experts? Considering the latest deliverables from camera manufacturers like FujiFilm, Sony, Nikon, and Canon, did your experience with or perception of OM-System change over the past 12 months? 

Did AI create a reasonable reality of a typical marketing area for cameras..?

I have no inside knowledge of OM-System or whether their employees prefer Olympus or OM-System cameras. For example, should we view OM-System as a global distributor of photography gear, or do they share similar technology KPIs as the previous Imaging Business from Olympus? Shouldn't that be our top-of-mind awareness as we navigate and review different camera manufacturers?

Why the OM-System label on Olympus cameras?

It's uncomfortable to think of future OM-System products and questions like, why is your priority an OMS label on Olympus products? Didn't you negotiate brand equity and transitions from short-, mid-, to long-term? I also question the 25% premium customers will incur when selling their cameras for the new OM-1 II. Does the new price plus 25% justify the OM1 II  "improvements" and new label?

It reminds me of the iconic Olympus 12-40mm and 40-150mm f2.8 Pro lenses. It took one decision from OM-System to lose 20-30% of its resale value. Why not a simple strategy of adding a premium to the improved dust and splashproof ratings of the "new" OM-System lenses?

I also smiled when I saw the new 150 to 600mm f5.6-6.3 lens. Social media experts couldn't wait to remind us the full-frame version of this Sigma lens is 45% less expensive. Why is the OM-System version more expensive? Did OM-System request a series of obstructions inside the OM-System version because M43 lenses deliver less light to the sensor than FF lenses?😏

Imagine the counter-marketing dollars that will be spent on this beauty...

Why don't FF promoters see the benefits? Because it's time to have a new conversation about sensor formats. Olympus photographers with the EM1 II/III, EM1X, and OM-1s get an equivalent reach of 1200mm at f6.3 and up to 8.5EV camera/lens stabilization. Compare this to FF cameras and the ISOs plus cropping in post-processing to capture wildlife and birds at 1200mm. Chances are they will have more image noise with less than 20MP after cropping to an equivalent M43 view...

Fuji is a strong competitor with a long history in photography...

What about the OM-System 9-18mm f4.0-5.6 MZuiko lens? It's good to inject new life into this lens. However, there must be a reason why it received so much social media criticism. Full-frame competitors seemed OK with a Micro Four Thirds offer for bird and wildlife photography. Loyal "size and capture" consumers seem happy to spend thousands on huge FF lenses. Was the risk higher if FF consumers compared the tiny 9-18mm M43 lens to its full-frame relatives? How does one recognize a fanboy or promoter? They ALL repeat phrases with "cropping" or "it's a Kit" lens...

Study the types of lens elements Olympus used for this absolute gem...

One of the risks OM-System created is a small bird and wildlife segment. While the unique benefits of M43 lenses are undisputed, will the OM-1 II be as popular amongst influencers, events, street, travel, landscape, and portrait photographers? What if OM-System did the anticipated firmware update on the Olympus OM-1? Wouldn't that free their R&D team to design a new OM-System camera? These are valid concerns because traditional M43 or Olympus photographers increasingly purchase full-frame and APC cameras. That simply means OM-System gave other brands a huge opportunity...

Graduated ND filters and the new OM-1 II. Those working with gradients in Photoshop will appreciate my concern. Photographers do not want dark mountain tops, trees, buildings, or strange halos. This is why Adobe created better ways of separating critical objects from the sky. Why not GND filters or bracketing, advanced AI selections, and the final image in the OM-1 or Workspace?

Olympus EM1 III with 12-45mm f4.0 lens - ISO200, f6.3, 1/640. I applied my new Fuji Color Chrome effect to the Enhanced Raw File.

What could a real OM-System camera be like?

OM-System should assume a leading role and exit the sensor size and autofocus cycle. The new OMS camera should be like the Pen F, EP-7, and Fuji X100V with a new User Interface and a 20MP high-sensitivity BSI MOS sensor with the smallest M43 noise floor. The target segment should be street, family, travel, event, and hobby photographers. Focus on creative AI features versus AF AI. The new camera's AF system should be a clever derivative of the EM1 III (OM-5) AF system.

See this article for more about a new OM-System camera.

The focus should be creativity, flexibility, IQ, profiles, and a Workspace App for tablets and Mobiles. Study the unique needs of the target segment with new AI, computational, and creative features. You will be surprised to see which of my articles are most popular and by what margin...

Olympus EM1 II with 12-40mm f2.8 Pro lens - ISO200, f7.1, 1/800. My new Fuji Color and FX-Blue Chrome effect with the Enhanced Raw Format.

There is no reason why OM-System shouldn't excel...

Olympus EM-1 MKI with 60mm f2.8 macro lens - ISO100, f10, 1/50. My new Fuji Color Chrome effect with the Enhanced Raw Format.

Let's talk history and compare older OMDs to the OM-1 II.

Most of the features manufacturers rave about are unused statistics for most. For example, many don't care if the camera does 120fps with C-AF or videos in 6K 10-bit for more than 30 minutes. These features are designed for niche applications like Pro Photographers and Videographers working for corporate clients, and only promoters like reviewers track a bird's eye hiding in the trees.

I posted many examples in the past showcasing the high levels of unique and creative freedoms older OM-D and PEN cameras offer street, hobby, and travel photographers in 2024. Study examples like the EM10 II and EM1 MKI with the Enhanced Raw Format. That's not even mentioning the EM5 II or Pen-F. Just imagine the loyalty OM-System would enjoy if they celebrated the Olympus label.

With the correct pricing, which of the Professional cameras below matches your needs for 2024..?

Olympus OM-D E-M1 MK3

I never considered the MKIII being influenced to think it's a minor upgrade. I used my MKII for +4 years before reacting to a special on the MKIII. What a surprise when I learned just how different it was. It felt like Olympus guarded this BIG surprise until the improved features and IQ of the EM1 III.

I updated this OM-System slide for the Olympus EM1 III.

Olympus OM-1

The Olympus OM-1 was the final building block or R&D achievement of the Olympus Imaging Business. It reminds me of top designs like the EM5s, EM1, EM1 II/III, and Pen-F. It takes an effort to go back in time and remind myself how Canon and Nikon continued to sell DSLRs. Olympus assumed a winning role, became a trendsetter, and achieved fascinating mirrorless results in a DLSR world. 

It took large sums of counter-marketing dollars to smear these achievements.

OM-System used these slides during the launch of the Olympus OM-1 in 2023.

OM-System OM-1 MKII

Should one expect similar functional and IQ gains as the previous EM1 III? You won't find honest and factual information about the OM-1 II on social media. For example, I am so grateful that all my Oly lenses are "good copies."😏 According to social media experts, having 3 Olympus lenses without one flawed copy is nearly impossible. Guess what the first OM-1 II AF videos will be like? 

This is one of the best video presentations on the OM-1 II. It's in German but worth watching for our English-speaking friends because the presenter used OM-System slides. The OM-1 II improvements might be similar to the Olympus EM1 III in overall performance and Image Quality..?

This is the slide OM-System Ambassadors used for the OM-1 II launch.

Conclusion

One of the more troubling changes in the past years is dishonest marketing. This has become one of the most rewarding research activities for those seeking accurate info. How should one navigate this landscape? The best option is to question social media statements, learn more about the subject, and create personal references like testing products before buying them.

All the above slides are copies except for the EM1 III slide. I created it for this article. This OM-1 II presentation (12:15) from OMS showed 7EV IBIS for the OM-1. The original slide from 2023 shows 8EV. Here is the original 2023 OM-System video (3.54). The OM-1 specs confirmed 8EV...

Best Regards

Siegfried