High-sensitivity sensors for cameras like the OM-3

Last update: 29th August 2025

I have been observing YouTube channels focusing on the OM System OM-3. What sparked a discussion with ChatGPT were those explaining their preference for M43 cameras like the E-M1 III or the EP-7. It also seems like YouTubers feel compelled to justify positive reviews of the OM-3 or the OM-5 II. Does this indicate a trend or an accurate reflection of the M43 segment, or should we rather focus on the overwhelming positive feedback from those opting for smaller camera solutions?

My discussion with ChatGPT highlighted the technical weaknesses in the commercial layer's definition of digital camera efficiency. We reviewed the reasons why the OM-1 II or the OM-3 stacked BSI sensor is most likely a high-sensitivity sensor. It's rare to experience this amazing sensor with the OM System OM-3, as one expects this level of refinement only from pro cameras like the OM-1 II.

I was working with ChatGPT to analyze the Olympus E-M1 III and the Sony A7 IV in an effort to find a more reliable measure than physical size for sensor efficiency. The E-M1 III has a Live MOS sensor, and the Sony A7 IV has a BSI sensor. The EM-1 III is the most capable pro-level camera from the E-M1 series. What differentiates the OM-5 from the E-M5 III is the TruePic IX image processor. The latest OM-1/OM-3 TruePic X processor and the stacked 20MP Quad BSI sensor offer significant advantages. This commitment to photography cameras has become a rarity over the past 5 years.

My discussion with ChatGPT explained the 2-stop sensitivity gain of the OM-1, the OM-1 II, and the OM-3's new BSI sensor. We also discussed a more reliable way to rate sensor sensitivity, including the unique ISO-to-SNR benefits from the two-stop M43 depth of field (in-focus) advantage. Everything changes when we learn there is more to digital cameras than the physical size of the sensor.

Did you know that the OM-1, OM-1 II, and the OM-3 have the same sensor?

Olympus EP-7 enhanced raw file converted and edited in Workspace.

A brief summary of my discussion with ChatGPT.

We started with basic knowledge and how to measure the efficiency of complex electronic parts. This know-how benefits all digital photographers, not only M43 photographers, as a good understanding of these basics will improve your ability to evaluate new product releases. 

I cropped ChatGPT's replies so that they can be viewed as pictures.

The following ChatGPT reply reviews the above feedback and how it applies to image sensors. For instance, is physical size a good indicator of sensor efficiency, or do we need more?

The chances of a truly equivalent sensor size comparison are almost impossible. Equivalence means all optical and technical aspects need to be similar. Focusing only on the optical aspects of cameras will result in inaccurate comparisons. See this fun example of rating the bigger one better.

The next question reviewed camera and sensor differences. Searching for a better way of expressing sensor efficiency, the aim is to quantify these differences in exposure stops. A more practical way is to say the difference between pro-level (more sensitive) and budget sensors is 2 to 3 stops? 

The next discussion examines the E-M1 III and the Sony A7 IV. The aim is not to compare them but to highlight the technical differences. AI questioning and probing techniques are crucial when searching for specific and theoretically accurate information. Poor questioning techniques generally leads to pleasing replies from most AI platforms. All information from AI needs to be verified and challenged. Use the AI replies in this article to start your own search for accurate information.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

ChatGPT reply: Part 1:

                        CFA = Color Filter Aray

Part 2:

Part 3:

I included the following replies, as they share relevant information for those wanting to improve their digital know-how. Much of what I say in my articles is reflected in these AI replies. There is much more to digital photography than what is presented in the commercial information layer. The secret is to focus on those aspects making a real difference for all digital photographers.

This link discusses the commercial versus factual information layers.

The next question discussed the 2-stop M43 depth-of-field advantage. For example, how do we apply this benefit to optimize our ISO-to-SNR ratio? This knowledge is only crucial if you want top results from digital cameras. Typical applications are landscape, low light, or product photography. Study my articles discussing the digital photography flow diagram for digital cameras.

The final question considers the 4th exposure variable in the exposure formula. Yes, it is possible to manage shadow and highlight clipping. The sensor's dynamic range is only another variable.

Folks, there is no need to apologize for the M43 segment or when recognizing that there are almost no visible image quality differences between most cameras. The OM-3's shadow details did benefit from the new BSI sensor. What surely makes a difference is the new TruePic X image processor and stacked BSI sensor combination. That said, I get great results from both my E-M1 III and the OM-3.

If physical sensor size is not a reliable indicator, what criteria could we use to rate digital cameras? As said, budget sensors are 1 to 2 stops less sensitive than professional sensors. The key difference between digital cameras is advanced features and autofocusing options that enable us to repeatedly capture great results in diverse conditions. Some of these differences are not associated with casual or hobby photography but are more relevant to professional photography applications.

Olympus EP-7 enhanced raw file converted and edited in Workspace.

The camera's image processor governs critical image quality markers, such as the gamma curve, white balance calculations, image sharpening, image color priorities, and fine detail processing. This makes it factually incorrect to say that larger sensors capture and produce "more" image quality. It is better to highlight the roles and definitions of the sensor and image processor more accurately.

I appreciate that AI is still developing and is not a mature and reliable service today. My intention is not to suggest AI as a reliable source of information. Nothing beats human engagement, experience, and knowledge. My recommendation is to learn and to test everything you read, see, and hear.

See this interesting image quality test I did with 15 cameras - link.

Best

Siegfried

How to create color profiles with ART filters

Last updated:- 19th August 2025

It's good to sense more enthusiasm for creative color, ART filters, and profiles among photographers with the Pen F, E-P7, and OM-3. I've never seen such a surge of positive feedback about ART filters and the various Olympus color options as I have in the past six months. It's remarkable to think that Olympus first introduced ART filters in 2008 with the E-30. The Pen F subsequently became a sought-after camera for creative and street photographers, and by 2025, the Olympus E-P7, Workspace, and the Ol.Share app continue to be popular choices for hobby and creative photographers.

Tip: This article and images are best viewed on a large display.

I had never thought of Olympus ART filters as a way to craft distinctive and vibrant profiles. While I was aware of the enhancements added to the E-P7, I overlooked the extra flexibility that comes with adjusting ART filters, both in-camera and with Workspace. The more I explore Olympus cameras and Workspace, the more I appreciate the incredible capabilities of these amazing M43 products.

Photographers can adjust nine of thirty-one ART filters with the E-P7. With the Pen F and the OM-3 it's none, and with the EM10 IV it's two. Both the E-P7 and OM-3 enhanced raw files have access to all nine adjustments in Workspace. All JPEG and TIFF files have access to these adjustments.

Olympus E-450 enhanced raw file converted in Workspace (Soft Focus, tonal curve, color filter, time of day).

Tonal adjustments are a great editing option for cameras without these in-camera ART filter options of the E-P7. The Enhanced RAW format also lets us blend ART filters with other color adjustments. For example, successfully editing watercolor ART filters requires tonal adjustments to create white and black backgrounds, along with fine-tuning image colors with the Adjust Color tool.

See this article for more about the exposure mix versus tonal adjustments.

See this article for more about Workspace.

If you've been reading my blog for a while, you know that I encourage photographers to create their own profiles. Workspace is crucial for learning more about creative color, ART filters, the Color Creator, and how to create color profiles. The camera display is too small for this kind of editing. It's much easier to apply proven editing techniques directly to the camera while shooting.

While I enjoyed Photoshop, I cancelled my subscription because the renewal was just too expensive. I tried a number of editing software options in an effort to replace Photoshop. I decided to get and focus on Affinity Photo 2 in the future. While evaluating other editing options, I was lost in all the profiles, LUTs, presets, and whatever AI features these modern editors offer us. I can do everything I need with Workspace, and like Photoshop, Affinity Photo offers me that little extra.

Each image in this article features an ART filter that was edited in Workspace. Some were done with the "E-P7" ART filter option, and others with effects and tonal adjustments. Olympus and OM System photographers enjoy much freedom while expressing their creativity with ART filters.

It doesn't take much effort to spend hours with Workspace and ART filters. With a little practice, it's much quicker to convert your thoughts into works of art. Testing several cameras, I can confirm that we can adjust these same 9 ART filter options in Workspace for the OM-3 and newer TruePic VIII and IX Olympus cameras such as the E-M1 III, E-M5 III, E-M10 III, E-M10 IV, and E-PL9.

Olympus EM-10 IV with the Lumix 45 - 175mm lens. (ISO640, f5.6, 1/320) Enhanced Raw file converted in Workspace.

I often wonder how much enthusiasm it would have taken for Olympus to grow their creative offer. How will talented photographers and younger generations apply and tweak these ART filters? There is something special about having access to the camera's Art Processor with Workspace.

Pen F (TruePic VII) ART filters does not have this RAW option in Workspace.

Also, see this popular E-P7 article and image collection...