Last update:- 12th May 2025
Let's assume you are using the following cameras for a few months. Will your dream and go-to choices change after a few months, and will the data benefits of 16 or 20 megapixels be an advantage? Which of these cameras match your current photography style, or benefit your photography most?
The OM System OM-3 is a beautiful camera promising OM-1 excellence and IBIS efficiency. It's difficult to say if the OM-3 will become my future go-to camera. The new menu is a steep learning curve and frustrating when searching for basics like Gradation, digital zoom, and AEL/Shutter combinations. My current go-to cameras are the E-M1 III, E-M5 II/III, E-M10 IV, and the Pen F or E-P7. For instance, I especially value the cluster AF feature of newer TruePic VIII cameras such as the EM1 III, E-M5 III, E-M10 III/IV, E-PL9, and E-P7. Are the OM-3 improvements enough to win me over?
Did Olympus photographers request a Pen F II or a repackaged OM-1 with a Creative Dial? OM System alienated casual and hobby Olympus photographers when they targeted wildlife, bird, and bird-in-flight photographers. Would these new OM-1 users buy the OM-3, or do they prefer the "superior" IQ of the Nikon Zf? Will Olympus customers continue migrating to Fuji or will they buy an OM-3?
Fujifilm is similar to Olympus with a history of designing cameras, a full range of mirrorless cameras with Standard and Pro lenses. I tried Fuji's 16MP APC cameras in the past but stayed with Olympus. I reconsidered Fuji when Olympus sold the imaging business and bought the Fuji X-T5 when OM System repackaged the E-M1 III. Many Olympus photographers looking for a new camera ask whether it's wise to buy from a company with a history of relabelling and repackaging older cameras?
Why did I buy the OM-3? I was looking for a used Olympus OM-1. The OM-3 was simply a convenient alternative. There is much to learn about the new OM-3 and I look forward to discovering my "OM-1." Does that mean I am a loyal OM System supporter, and happy to pay for firmware upgrades?
2 comments:
I am conflicted as I currently have the OM-5 and the E-P7 as my primary shooting set up. The OM-3 is like a hybrid of the two cameras with some additional tech and features. I enjoy the handling of the E-P7 and the OM-5 more than the OM-3. Was also a reason why I never fell in love with the Pen F. I am not so good about letting cameras go so it feels wasteful to get the OM-3 to then have two good cameras not get used as much. Another plus for the OM-5 and E-P7 combo is that they share the same battery and both charge in camera with the micro USB cable.
It was your review of the E-P7 that convinced me to pick one up when I came across a very lightly used one at a decent price before they blew up in price here in Japan. I think it is a fun camera and I enjoy the color/B&W switch. The lack of an EVF can get to me at times as I always seem to have it out on bright, sunny days. One of the factors that keeps the OM-3 in my periphery. I am curious of your thoughts on the new camera.
Hello Matthew
It's good to hear you continue to enjoy your E-P7. The OM-5 with the E-P7 is an almost perfect combination. I never tried the OM-5 but have the E-M1 III. Last week I recorded a live presentation with the E-M1 III in 1080p. I used the E-M1 III mic. The results and AF were perfect. The E-P-7 is a great always with you camera. I trust you also know these cameras well which is a major benefit. The grip and handling of these two cameras are almost perfect. The Enhanced Raw Format and Workspace make this a perfect solution. What would you gain with the OM-3? I ike to see your thoughts on this question.
Best
Siegfried
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