WorkSpace How-to Page...

Last Updated:- 22nd April 2024

What are the benefits of having Raw files? Photographers have been using Raw files for years and are comfortable using Raw Converters like Photoshop, PhotoLab, and others. The pros and cons of using Raw files are old news for most. Olympus cameras are unique because most photographers are happy with the color and natural film characteristics of Olympus Jpeg files. Workspace was a game changer because it introduced a completely new perspective on the Raw format.

Olympus introduced several exciting features and technologies over the years. Relevant to this article are the Olympus Color and Creative strategy, advanced Tonal (Gamma) controls, and the ability to adjust these and other camera settings in Workspace via the so-called Enhanced Raw Format.

Study this link for more about the Enhanced Raw Format or editing in Live View.

Study this link for more about the Olympus Color and Creative strategy.

This Blog supports BOTH creative photographers and those wanting good image quality.

How-to Techniques for Workspace

1. How to speed up your refresh rate for Workspace?
2. How to link your preferred Image Editor in WS
3. How to Personalize Your Exif Data
4. How to apply fast adjustments with Workspace
5. How to save your Editing steps as a batch-processing file
6. How to use Olympus Capture Software
7. How to edit with your Olympus camera in PCRAW mode
8. How to manage your Pen F color and monochrome Profiles
9. How to edit and create videos
10. How to apply the Dark Frame option to reduce Image Noise
11. WorkSpace editing steps - How to step backward and forward?
12. See this quick and easy technique to edit your images...
13. How to sharpen your Olympus images
14.  How to create your editing space for WorkSpace
15. How to adjust your Shadows and Highlights in WorkSpace
16. How to use Tone Curves with WorkSpace
17. How to save your edited image?
18. How to save a PDF copy of the WorkSpace Users Manual?
19. How to activate your camera settings in Workspace.
20. How to use the Color Creator function in WS?
21. A new feature was added to WS with the V1.5 upgrade
22. Which are the "Enhanced" and "Normal" raw options?
23. How to see your Pen F adjustments in Workspace?
24. How to prepare and Export an image for Instagram?
25. How to display and check your autofocus in WS?
26. How to make WorkSpace faster with PCRAW mode?
27. Workspace and the 13" M1 MacBook Pro (16GB memory)
28. How to install the new AI Noise reduction in Workspace.
29. How to edit your Enhanced RAW Files in 2 steps
30. Which version of Workspace is better?
31. Workspace Essentials for 2024 - NEW
32. How to recreate the camera's JPEG in Workspace - NEW
33. ...

Here are more articles about WorkSpace

- Creative editing with WorkSpace Part 5 - link

- Olympus Pen F color and monochrome profiles with WorkSpace - link

- Guide to Olympus creative color techniques Part 6 - link

- How to create and edit a video with your EM5 II and WorkSpace - link

- Olympus Live View and Enhanced Raw Files - link

WorkSpace - How-to Techniques 

1. How to speed up the screen refresh rate for Workspace?

Olympus added a new feature to speed up the screen refresh rate. Click on the button in the illustration below, and Workspace will slightly reduce the display resolution to improve the refresh cycle. Click the button again for a detailed display (image).

2. How to link your preferred Image Editor in WS. 

Many Photographers work with image editors like Photoshop or Luminar. You can link your favorite image editor to the EX button in Workspace. Go to Settings and follow the steps below.

Do your raw conversions in WS and benefit from the Olympus Image Processing and Workspace. Transfer the converted 16-bit Tiff file to Photoshop or Luminar for any additional editing.

- When editing your 16-bit Tiff file in Photoshop:-

1. Change the 16-bit Tiff file to a Smart Object and create a duplicate layer.
2. Select ACR from the Filter menu and open the Tiff file in the PS raw editor.
3. Apply any of the raw adjustments you would apply in the PS raw converter
4. The final step is to continue editing the converted raw file with Photoshop...

3. How to personalize your Exif data

You can personalize your Exif data in the "MY Tab." 

See the steps below:-

- Go to the "Window" menu and click "Show Properties."
- Select and link your preferred Exif data to the MY Tab.

- Select the data field you want in the Exif data, right-click, and select "Add to my Properties."

How to link the "Picture Profile" to the MY tab. Look for color profiles or color-creator settings if you received an image with Exif data (illustration below). This is a good way of checking for Exif data on photos you received from a friend or found on the web.

Another option is to check the images you received or downloaded or hold the mouse over the thumbnail. This will open a new window, like the example below.

4. How to apply fast adjustments with Workspace

Workspace might feel slow, even though it is faster than the older Olympus Viewer 3 editor. The reason is that Workspace first applies new adjustments before going to the next one.

Is it possible to change that? See the steps in the illustration on the left. Select the value you like to change, and you will see an Up/Down window. You can adjust the values one click at a time or click and hold the mouse button for continuous changes.

5. How to save your Editing steps as a batch-processing file

You might work on a new color profile or repeat a specific editing sequence on other images. The solution is to save an Editing Profile as a Batch Processing File. See the illustration below and follow the steps to create a batch-processing file.

- See the steps and the illustration below (illustration below):-

1. Click the "Save Processing Batch file" button.
2. Select the "Save a Batch Processing file" option
3. Select or de-select any settings you like to include
4. Give the profile a name and Save it. (Create/use your own Profile folder)
5. This is a list of profiles or batch-processing files I saved

Repeat the above steps BUT select the "Load a Batch Processing" file option, and apply your profile to the next image.

Your personal profiles are saved or recalled via the "Batch Processing" option in Workspace.

6. How to use Olympus Capture Software

See this video from Peter Forsgard about Olympus Capture.

Here you can find the latest information about Workspace, Olympus Capture, downloads, and the most recent software updates.

7. How to edit with your Olympus camera in PCRAW Mode

The benefits of using this option are speed, Image Processing, and the same settings as the camera. Workspace uses slightly different Editing spaces for raw and jpeg files in normal mode. The benefit of the PCRAW option is speed (especially for older PCs). Connect the EM1 II/III/X or OM-1 via the PCRAW cable. The raw editing window only changes for the EM1 (II & III). I never tried the EM1X.

The PCRAW conversion window is now the same for compatible cameras from V2.3.2. I do not have an OM-1 to test this. Please let me know if you tested this... For example, the White Balance options change in PCRAW and normal mode for the EM1 III.

Workspace has two raw conversion windows for the EM1s. The 2nd window activates with the EM1s in PCRAW mode. There are 2 extra options in PCRAW mode. They can convert the raw files from the camera's SD card or the PC's hard disk. The WS PCRAW editor has fewer options for the EM1s.

Workspace V2 has an improved editing space in the PCRAW mode for the OM-1. It's not a separate raw conversion window like we have for the EM1s. The OM-1 received full access to the default Workspace conversion or editing space. This is a significant improvement and benefit for OM-1 users...

Also, see Tip 27

- How to connect your camera, follow the steps below:

• Connect the camera to your PC with the supplied USB C cable
• Switch the camera ON and select PC-RAW on the camera display
• Open Workspace if not already open
• WS will ask which files you plan to edit (Camera SD card or PC Hard disk)
• Workspace will open a separate editing space for the EM1 II, III, and 1X.
• You can apply profiles, copy settings, or use them on multiple files.
• Export the edited file (Only JPEG options are available in PCRAW mode)
• It takes a little practice...

Step 1 in the above illustration shows the normal editing window, and Step 2 is the editing window with my EM1 III in PCRAW mode. The main difference is that PCRAW mode has fewer editing options plus the editing options are similar to the EM1 III settings. This is not the case for normal RAW conversions. PCRAW mode is not open to all Olympus cameras like the EM5 II or the Pen F.

- Update for the OM-1

Connecting the OM-1 is different. Connect the camera as normal to the PC and select PCRAW mode on the camera. Instead of having a PCRAW window like the EM1s, go to the PCRAW button in the standard editing window of WS. The OM-1 received full access to all the "Enhanced" Raw Features. 

The OM-1 is noticeably quicker in PCRAW. Workspace is now more attractive as a RAW converter. It's also easier to select PCRAW mode for the ON-1 or the regular editing window of Workspace.

I have the baby M1 Macbook Pro (M1 processor). It's my quickest editing option for enhanced raw files. Workspace V2 is not slower on the M1 Macbook Pro. See my article about upgrading my iMac. OM-System corrected the slower editing problem of my older iMac in V2.11.

8. How to manage your Pen F color & monochrome profiles  

- This brief description with 4 scenarios:-

1. WorkSpace developed profiles - How to transfer the profile to the Pen F
2. Saving your Pen F configuration/settings on your PC
3. Extracting and saving color or monochrome profiles from JPEG images
4. Creating/using your WorkSpace Profiles with WorkSpace (See Tip 4 above)

I. WorkSpace developed Profiles - How to upload profiles to the Pen F

This article reviews DXO-FilmPack and how to create Pen-F or E-P7 profiles. It also explains the differences between the Pen-F and WorkSpace profiles. These differences also explain why we can't upload Workspace profiles to the Pen-F. That said, the most practical way of adding new profiles to the Pen-F is to manually program them into the Pen-F.

II. Saving your Pen F camera configuration on your PC

It is possible to share your complete Pen F configuration with a friend. If you need to share your Pen-F settings and profiles, connect the Pen-F to your PC and select "Save settings /MySets" from the menu (window below). Another method is to use the "Custom Settings" and "Save" functions from the WorkSpace "Camera" menu. (2nd image).

Transfer the Pen F configuration (file. set) to your PC and save it. Mail the "file. set" file to your friend. The recipient will use "Load" from the "Custom Settings" menu to transfer the Pen-F configuration and profiles to his or her camera.

For more information, see the illustrations below...

Olympus Updater.

Select Option B to transfer the Pen F settings/configuration from the PC to the camera or vice versa. Follow the steps in the illustration below.

If you don't know when to select "Load" or "Save," see the illustration below. You will always see the "direction" of the transfer on the panel to the left in the Update Window, 

III. Extracting and saving a color or monochrome profile from jpeg images

You can share Pen F profiles with a jpeg file. Select a profile, take a photo, and mail it to a friend. You can resize the jpeg in WS or select a smaller file size in the Pen-F.

Open the jpeg in Workspace and select "Export" from the "File" menu. See the illustration below to include the Exif Data.

Follow the steps below to extract a Pen-F Profile from a jpeg file...

Select Option A.

If you discover a Pen-F image on the web and need to verify its profile data, right-click on the image to download it. Open the image in WorkSpace and check the Exif data. See the example below...

It's possible to extract the profile data if you find a color or monochrome profile. 

9. How to create videos in WorkSpace?

I prepared a short article on how to record videos with your Olympus and how to edit them in WorkSpace. Included are the instructions to edit and export the final video in WorkSpace.

Read the article in the above link for how to Export the file. The image below has info on how to convert video formats.

See the article (above link) for more information about Workspace and title pages or audio tracks.

10. How to use the Dark Frame function

Olympus improved the noise reduction capability of Workspace. They added new spot removal and dark frame options. Use a second "dark frame" image with higher ISOs. Use the dark frame image with the new function to reduce the noise.

Olympus EM1 II with 50mm f1,4 Leica - ISO6400, f7.1, 1/13Sec - Raw edited in WorkSpace and finished in Photoshop.

Image noise increases with higher sensor temperature. Higher temperatures change the camera's noise floor. The dark frame function is perfect for high-temperature situations.

Put the lens cap on and take a second "dark frame" image. Practice with this function before using it. It's often better to cancel the in-camera noise reduction and to use Workspace and your Enhanced Raw Files. This makes it possible to selectively apply the noise reduction options in WorkSpace. You will have the same results with Workspace and often better as with your camera.

11. WorkSpace Editing History - Step backward/forward

How does one go back one or more steps when editing with WorkSpace? You did a few editing steps in WorkSpace, and you like to go back a few steps. Study the image below:-

- Click on the WorkSpace "History" button,

- A new "History" window will open in WS,

Go one step back and select the Highlights & Shadows by "selecting A" in the above example. Select the "Highlight & Shadow" step to cancel this step and everything below...

Practice this technique, and it will become easy. It's quick to move backward and forward in the editing history window and to cancel or monitor your editing steps.

12. A quick way to edit your images...

Many photographers completely underestimate ART Filters. Photography became a quest for technically perfect images. We need to choose between technically correct and pleasing results.

Also, see my How-To tip No-17 further down...

This technique consists of editing jpegs and showing the advantages:

• This is an easy and quick editing technique...
• It's a repeatable technique or steps to edit your images
• It's quick to develop a unique editing style or look for your images
• Create your own Batch Profile if you are happy with your new editing style

Follow these simple steps to edit your JPEG image with ART filters:-

Step I

- Open an image in WorkSpace and select the ART filter you like to use...

The Pop ART II filter works for bright and energetic colors... Experiment with the different ART filters to find a look that works for you. The ART filters are more flexible in WorkSpace. 

Step 2

Fine-tune the image with the Highlights & shadows function. I used the settings in the image below to remove contrast and lighten the Pop ART II filter for the above intro image...

Experiment with your "curve" adjustments until you find a look that works for the ART filter.

Step 3

The final step is to sharpen the image. The settings below work well for my O-MD cameras. You could also use 15 for the threshold and/or 30 for the Amount.

Save your adjustments in a "batch processing" file if you are done and satisfied. Use this batch file or "profile" to edit your future images. You might get away with only your batch "Profile," and people might already recognize your work from your new profile or batch processing file...

See the final image below. I did not use layers for this example...

This image was taken with the EM5 and 14-42mm lens in 2012 - Salt Lake City (USA)

It also works well to use two images, the original and an edited ART profile image. Open both in PS in layers. Experiment with the Blending modes and the opacity slider until you find the right image look. Layers is a powerful editing option and perfect for taming down some ART filters.

13. How to sharpen your Olympus images

The question often is, should I sharpen my images, and when or how much? The secret is to keep any image post-processing or sharpening as little as possible. Olympus jpegs are already good and don't need much sharpening. Never use the sharpening sliders in the camera or WorkSpace. Use the Unsharp Mask filter in WorkSpace. See the image below.

The settings in the above example are safe or enough for most of your Olympus images. This is if the sharpening sliders in the camera or WS were not used. 

Sharpened in WorkSpace (on the right)

14. How do we change the editing space in WorkSpace

How do we change the editing space in WorkSpace? For example, it's possible to always have a "large" version of your image in WS. I prefer smaller files when I edit with my Macbook Pro.

The above image is the typical editing window of Workspace on my Macbook Pro. The WorkSpace window can quickly transform into a new editing space. It is nothing new to change the editing window while editing. See the examples below...

With 2 clicks (see above), the working space (below) is optimized for my laptop...

With 2 clicks, the working space is optimized to compare the edited image with the original image...

Experiment with the different windows, panels, and layouts in Workspace. Getting used to that also makes it difficult to use another image editor.

See the above example for one final option to improve your image editing experience with Workspace. Drag the editing pallet away from its docking position and place it anywhere you like. When done, click the "restore" icon (see arrow), and the editing pallet will return to its docking position...

Also, see  Tip 1 for more about speeding up the screen refresh rate...

15. How to adjust your Shadows and Highlights in WorkSpace

Also, see this article...

16. How to use Tone Curves in WorkSpace

The tone curves or the curves function is one of the most powerful editing functions. We can adjust the highlights, shadows, and mid-tones with the curves function. For example, an S-curve will increase your contrast. See the video links further down.

We can also adjust any of the 3 RGB colors with the curves. The curves function will change the selected and opposite colors. Use the Olympus color creator to find the opposite colors.

Try this quick exercise:-

- Open a raw file with blue or yellow colors (grass) in WorkSpace

- Select the blue on the Color Creator (See example above)

- Adjust the Vividness to -2 or -1

- Select the opposite color in Tone Curves (yellow)

- Move the midpoint of the curve up or down while monitoring the image

- The secret is small steps or adjustments...

For more information, see the videos below:-

• For an explanation of the Tone Curve function, see this - link
• Serge Ramelli is well known for his work - watch this video - link
• A very informative explanation of the Histogram and Tone Curves - link

The above videos show why. Layers will benefit WorkSpace. This includes basic layer features for the Pen-F. Mastering layers is one of the most fundamental steps to improve your editing skills...

17. How to save your edited image?

See the diagram below.

The export function has more options. See the Users Manual for more details.

18. How to get a PDF copy of the WorkSpace Users Manual

Install the free copy if you didn't install Adobe Acrobat Reader. To see the PDF version of the Users Manual, follow the steps in the diagram below...

19. How to activate your camera settings in Workspace

See this article for more on Live View.

We can simulate the camera's last Live View display on your PC in WorkSpace. Opening the raw file in WorkSpace is the same as viewing the raw sensor data. It is possible to see the final camera Live View display in WS when you activate your camera settings in WS. The reason is the unique similarities between the camera and WorkSpace. 

Functions like shadows & highlight, the Color Profile, and the Color Creator will change the camera Live View before you release the shutter. All these camera settings are available in WorkSpace.

This unique feature makes it possible to experiment in WorkSpace and manually transfer the settings to your camera.

Does the WorkSpace Live View feature support jpeg files? 

You need the raw image data to see the final Live View display in WorkSpace. The raw data simulates the image signal coming from the sensor. After activating your camera settings in WorkSpace, you will see the camera Live View display before releasing the shutter. 

Why is this Live View capability not in the User Manuals? 

The WS user manual is a short overview. I assume Olympus wanted to introduce these and other unique color and creative photography features. They probably thought Olympus photographers were not ready after the criticism from "reviewers and forums experts" on DPReview and Mu-43.

Almost all the camera settings are available in the raw file. The challenge is that you only see the "neutral" or unchanged raw file in WS when you open the raw file. Activate the camera settings in WS to see the Live View display in WS.

This is what you see when you open the raw file in WS. The settings are displayed but not activated. You need to select the "Adjust Color" function. See the image on the right on how to activate the camera setting in Workspace.

What makes this step more complex is functions like the Color Creator. You will only see Picture Mode and "Neutral" in WS. Go to "Picture mode" and "Color Creator" to activate them in Workspace.

One can have a quick overview of all the camera settings in Workspace?

Add the Exif data on the left to your "My list" in WS. See the User Manual for details on how to set it up.

One of the craziest examples is:-

- Sharpness

- Saturation

- Contrast

These camera settings are not visible like the Color Profile in WorkSpace because they are treated as "presets." That means you will only see the effect of these camera settings in WS. Activate the ones you used in the camera. To see which ones you used, go to the Exif data...

You will see the camera Live View display in Workspace to evaluate what you did in the camera. The more you practice using the enhanced raw format, the better you will get with the corresponding camera and Workspace features.

For more about WorkSpace and the Live View mode, see this article. 

20. How to use the Color Creator in the camera and WS?

See this short article with examples...

21. A great new feature was added to WS in the V1.5 version

Like Photoshop, move the mouse over the image and identify the colors and tones on the Color Adjust (Profile) tool and the Tone Curves function.

This is great because you can now more accurately select and adjust colors or tones...

22. Which are Enhanced and which are Normal Raw settings?

For more about the Enhanced Raw Format, go here. Learn which settings are unique to the camera and the Enhanced Raw Format and which are Normal Raw settings.

The image below is a copy of the WS Editing tools. I marked the Enhanced Raw File settings "Enhanced" and the Normal Raw settings "Normal."

None of the settings are active when you open the enhanced raw file. What you see is the raw sensor data. You need to "activate" the camera settings before they are active in WorkSpace. For example, select the white balance to activate the camera WB setting. (See below)

The same is true for all the Enhanced Raw settings. Activate the Color Creator if you applied it to your camera and want to see the effect in Workspace.

How does one "activate" these enhanced raw file settings in WorkSpace? See my article explaining Live View and how to work with Enhanced Raw Files. See the illustration below for more information.

23. How to see your Pen-F adjustments in Workspace

Much of my writing is about the Olympus Pen-F and its creative functions. What about other Olympus cameras? One of the versions made it possible to use Pen-F color or MonoChrome Profiles with E-M1 II raw files. More recent versions included most Olympus cameras...

The solution is simple. Open your raw file in WorkSpace and activate the camera settings. Export a 16-bit Tiff copy to your "converted" folder. Edit the Tiff file in WS and apply the Pen F profiles on the Tiff file...

All the Olympus cameras with the ART filter, the Color Creator, or Shadows/Highlights (Curves) functions have the "Enhanced" type raw files. See this article. The only features unique to the Pen-F or the E-P7 (raw format) are the Color and MonoChrome Profiles Functions.

This means if you have a camera like the EM10 II or the EM5 II, then you will edit your enhanced raw files in WS with all the creative freedom of the Pen F. If you like to add a Color Profile, open the 16-bit Tiff file and apply one of your saved profiles.

24. How to prepare and Export an image for Instagram

The steps to prep and export an image for Instagram. See the illustration below:

1. Open and edit the image in Workspace.
2. Crop the image for Instagram (The crop ratio is 4:5 - the dimensions are 1080 x 1350)
3. Export the image (Use 1350 in Step 4 to apply the correct dimensions for Instagram)

25. How to display and check your autofocus in WS?

Olympus added a function to Workspace to show the autofocus point in the image. It is now possible to activate this feature in WorkSpace. You can then check your focus points on the image. This is a great tool to help you improve your autofocus results. The Autofocus On/Off button can be found at the bottom of the Workspace window. See the image below...

Having used this for a few weeks, the AF point is always in the center of the image. My preferred AF mode is (S2/C2/M1). This makes it possible to apply AF, keep the shutter halfway, reframe, and press it. Looking at the AF point in WS, it's always in the center?

26. How to speed up WorkSpace by connecting your EM1s or OM-1?

We can speed up Workspace with the EM1 (II & III) and OM-1 connected to the PC in PCRAW mode. The benefits are significant. I linked my EM1 II to my older iMac and tested the effectiveness of this feature. I then applied the same editing with and without the camera connected. The cycle times are faster in PCRAW mode and up to 30 seconds when not.

See Tip 7 for more information about PCRAW and connecting the OM-1...

What are the main benefits of using the EM1 (II or III) image processor? It helps to reduce the waiting times between the editing steps when trying new techniques, practicing with raw files, creating color or monochrome profiles, and experimenting with ART filters.

This is how to connect the camera:-

1. Open Workspace and open your EM1 II raw folder
2. Connect your EM1 II USB cable to the camera and your PC
3. Switch the camera "ON" and select "PCRAW" on the camera
4. WS will automatically jump to Step 2 (see image below)

This is your Normal Workspace editing screen.

How to return to the connected EM1 II editing window? It's possible to return to the PC Raw editing window if you accidentally "canceled" the "PCRAW" editing window and you are back in the "normal" mode. Select the option in the above image and follow steps 2 and 3.

Here you select the file you like to edit with your EM1 connected.

This is the EM1 II (connected) editing screen.

PCRAW mode is automatically opened when the EM1s or OM-1 is connected in PCRAW mode. The EM1s editing window has fewer options than the normal editing mode. The editing speed improvements are significant. PCRAW mode is ideal with the camera and the WS image processors working together. Transfer the edited raw files to Photoshop and continue your editing in Photoshop...

27. Workspace with the 13" M1 MacBook Pro with 16GB Memory

I started with Windows when I bought my first Desktop PC. I kept my final Windows 7 version for unique cases. I changed to the basic 13" Macbook Pro and a well-specified iMac in 2014. Both these Macs work well with Workspace V1.5. The only problem was I could not use the Graphics Processors with WS. These older Macs also work well with my EM1 II & III in PCRAW mode. OMWS V2 did not work well with these Macs. The new AI Noise Reduction filter did not work on these Macs. 

I have a newer basic Macbook Pro with an M1 processor. I added 16GB to the Macbook Pro. Workspace V2 works with the M1 Macbook Pro. The Graphics Processor connects automatically. I never used the "detailed screen" option (See tip 26) on my older Macs. With the newer M1, this feature is fast to keep it ON while editing with the new M1 Macbook Pro.

28. How to install the new AI Noise reduction filter

If you have an older version of Workspace on your PC and you like to upgrade, go to the Help menu and select the "Upgrade Software" option. It will install the new updater and then version 2. It does take a little while to do all this.

The new AI Noise Reduction filter (App) does not work with older Macs. I installed the V2 version on my newer Macbook Pro M1, and everything was OK.

Workspace will verify if the PC is compatible with the AI Noise Reduction Filter when updating to a newer version. If yes, you will see the message below. (left). You will have no message window when not compatible. Nothing happens if you install it again. The filter is installed if your PC has the correct hardware configuration. The image to the right (below) is what the function looks like in the Workspace editing window.

The AI Filter deactivates when installing the V2 upgrade, and you receive the OK. You need to install it again. Go to the help menu in Workspace V2 and select and download the new AI Noise Reduction filter. When installing the AI filter, you see a message window asking which cameras you like to include. All 3 cameras are automatically selected. Leave the selections as-is and press OK. I removed the OM-1 and then had to re-install the AI filter. It's a complete installation each time...

When done, it's easy to use. Be aware of the following:-

- The AI reduction filter works for the OM-1 and some older models

- It does not have any effect on images recorded at lower than ISO800

- It does not have any effect on Live ND images

- It does not have any effect on images recorded with multi-exposures

- It does not have any effect when using the "Merge Images" option in the camera

I photographed a few variations of a poorly lit scene at ISO12800...

Olympus EM1 III with 12-45mm f4, ISO12800, f5.0, 1/13th - edited with WS and the new AI Noise Reduction filter.

The above image is edited in Workspace( V2), and I used the new AI Noise Reduction filter. The AI filter has a few options and is easy to use. I did not expose for max SNR. I also did nothing else to improve the recorded image data. Study the images on a larger display. The scene was reasonably dark, and the shadows darker (probably 3 stops below neutral gray). You will see the shadow recovery is OK. The reflected information (data) might be too weak.

The same image was edited in PhotoLab 5 with Prime noise removal (I used slightly different colors in PL-5).

The same image was edited in PhotoLab 5 with DeepDive noise removal.

I use PhotoLab 5 on my iMac. When studying the results, you will see Workspace and the new AI filter causes a yellow cast. The Olympus noise filter is excellent for all Olympus cameras. I mostly use the "Low" option. The best way to manage noise is to improve your exposure skills...

Pls speed up WS, do any necessary upgrades, and open the AI filter for older PCs. The PhotoLab 5 AI filter works well on my older Macs. 

This EM1 III image was edited with WS with normal NR - The settings are in the Exif data.

29. How to edit your Enhanced Raw Files in 2 Steps

Most photographers edit their raw files in one session. PhotoLab and Lightroom are good examples of processing raw files in one step. While one session is OK for "standard" scenes, more complex scenes and Workspace benefit from converting and editing raw files in two stages.

See the link to the article...

30. Which version of Workspace is better?

The two versions in question are the older V1,5 and the newer version V2 of Workspace. They are almost identical, except for the AI noise reduction feature in V2. The more frustrating difference is the V2 version is slow on older computers which are doing well with version V1.5.

All Olympus cameras before the EM1 III are OK with V1.5. I kept one of the final V1.5 copies on my older Macbook Pro.

It is not a good idea to upgrade to V2 and to re-install V1.5. The reason is the Workspace database stays on the PC, and the V2 upgrade is not downward compatible...

Personally, I had it with all the software upgrades and reinstalled a previous OS on my older Macbook Pro. This allows me to continue with the software that's working perfectly well. I am even at the point of having only one PC on the web and using my older iMac and Macbook Pro offline...

Update: OMDS updated WS to V2.1.1.1 in January 2023. It works perfectly well will my older iMac 2014. I have yet to try the AI noise reduction feature...

31. Workspace Essentials for 2024

32. How to recreate your camera's JPEG in Workspace

See this short article discussing the 3 steps to recreate a copy of your camera's JPEG image...

OM WorkSpace update history

Last Update: 2nd March 2025

Olympus WorkSpace Page and Download - Link

OM-System update page for Products & Software - link

General Q & A page - link

Frustration with OM-System firmware updates

This is an issue for every photographer with an Olympus or OM-System camera. Here are the different options I tried to update my EM10 II on12th May 2024:

- My iMac (MacOS Ventura). I gave Workspace full access and couldn't do a FW update.

- An OLD Macbook Pro (High Sierra). It connects to the camera but NOT the OMS servers.

- An older Windows PC. It connects to the camera but NOT to the OMS firmware servers.

My iMac with Workspace (V2.3.2) can't connect to the camera. My older Macbook Pro and Windows PC connected to the camera but couldn't connect to the OM-System server. I received a message that my network has a connection problem. The same happens when I change to a different network. I also tried the OM System mobile phone App to update my E-M10 II.

A friendly guy at the M43 forum (DPR) created this option to upgrade firmware. Link (Link 2)

TIP: The only problem I experienced while updating an EM10 was the downloaded filename had to be changed to the BIN file name on the left of the chart below. See the illustration below.

The safest option for Mac owners is to ask a dealer with a Windows PC to update your Olympus. I did this for my used EM10 II plus IV. It's also a great opportunity to get a feel for Fuji cameras...

Launch date:- 6th February 2025

OMDS Workspace V2.4

Should we upgrade to the OM-3 version of Workspace? I recommend waiting for older Intel Macs. The current (V2.3.2 or V2.3.3) Mac versions are stable and work well with my Olympus cameras. I upgraded to V2.4 on my older Macbook Pro (M1) and experienced no issues. It's quick and responsive.

OMDS Workspace V2.3.3

Launch date:- 31st August 2024

I updated both my M1 Macbook Pro and my 2017 Intel iMac.

Notes: (2nd Sept 2024)

- The new version is slower than the previous version (pitty as V2.3.2 performs well)

- My M1 Macbook Pro is OK, but my Intel iMac is much slower. See this Intel article.

- The "faster" button does not seem to make a difference on my Intel iMac - not good!

- I had no request during the update for more access to my PCs - this seems like a plus

- I tried to update an older Olympus camera, but Workspace wanted more access to my PC... 

- A better option is to ask your local dealer to update any used Olympus cameras.

- For a summary of WS updates. (Go to the help menu in WS, and click "function info.")

- V2.3.2 is perfectly good - only upgrade older Intel Mac PCs if necessary...

My Intel iMac slowed down after installing Workspace V2.3.3. I had a bad experience deleting a newer version to reinstall the previous version in the past. This time I followed the advice of a DPReview forum poster and deleted the updated version. I then recovered V2.3.2 with Apple's Time Machine. It worked well, meaning I have V2.3.3 on my M1 Macbook Pro and V2.3.2 on my iMac.

How does one improve the screen update speed between adjustments?

The image below shows how to improve your display updates with Workspace. It does not negatively affect the displayed image quality of Workspace. I use this feature on the Intel iMac.

OMDS Workspace V2.3.2

Launch date:- 1st April 2024

I updated my copy on the 25th. The good news is it seems quicker than the previous version. I will add more info in a few days...

Notes: (2nd May)

 - The new version is definitely quicker than the previous version.

 - I tried PCRAW with my EM1 III. Nothing changed, the same as my previous comments...

 - No new features, no complaints, and nothing exciting to discover or discuss...

 - The extreme PC access requirements are still a pain - cannot update my Olympus cameras???

 - I decided not to allow OM-System the level of PC access they want. Why should I..?

 - OLDER WORKSPACE VERSIONS UPDATED OLYMPUS CAMERAS WITHOUT THIS ACCESS?

I spent much time on Workspace and gave the Olympus engineering team top marks for developing this raw converter. Workspace works well as a supplier raw converter, especially for those wanting a good but basic solution. The Enhanced Raw Format is unique and great for learning about Olympus cameras. I will keep Workspace on my PC. I will also focus more on DxO PhotoLab 7.

See this article. I posted an example of editing one of the test samples with PhotoLab 6. Version 6 or 7 does not need the same level of access to my Mac as Workspace. PhotoLab scans the DxO server for upgrades or missing lens profiles during startup. Downloads or updates are quick & easy...

OMDS Workspace V2.3

Launch date:- 31st January 2024

OM-System updated Workspace for the new OM-1 II. I installed the new version on my Macbook Pro with an M1 processor. OM-System also updated the Instruction Manual to V2.3. You will find a link to the new instruction manual in the Help Menu of Workspace.

You will also find a link to the same "old" summary when updating to the new version.

Notes (12th March 2024):

   - There was a version 2.3.1 update a few days later. No info is available...

   - These 2 versions are slower than the previous version. No info as to why...

   - Other than an OM-1 II update, I haven't seen any new Workspace functions.

   - I regretly installed these new versions on both my Mackbook and iMac...

   - The access needed to PCs is accessive. I mentioned this in my V2.2 update.

   - I simply block OM-System in my Mac settings after installing the update.

   - That means I cannot update my camera via WS. I haven't tried the App yet.

   - OMS also requested my personal data when I bought my EM1 III and EP-7...

   - The only "benefit" I get from OMS having my data is an inbox with advertising...

   - The latest EU regulations highlighted the practice of selling customer data...

The previous Olympus Workspace versions never required this level of access. See this DPReview post. Whether this is an innocent discussion is irrelevant. Many Olympus photographers reading this post will never experience the benefits of the Enhanced Raw Format or Workspace. OM-System is making it hard to build trust and a long-term customer relationship...

OMDS Workspace V2.2.2

Launch date:- 31st September 2023

The V2.2.2 update is for a new server with camera update information. I updated my Laptop and iMac, and WS works well and is quick on both PCs. I question if OM-System has the in-house capacity to update the EM1 III or older Olympus cameras. I am OK with that because I will not update my Olympus cameras via OM-System. I am not planning to get any new OM-System products either...

OMDS Workspace V2.2.1

Launch date:- 29th September 2023

I was reminded of an update when I started Workspace. I updated my Macbook Pro M1, and all seems OK. I will wait before doing the update to my new iMac.

                                                                          Source: OMSystem.com

It looks like a tiny update. I will give more feedback in a week or two...

OMDS Workspace V2.2

Launch date:- 2nd July 2023 

Special update: 21st August 2023. I purchased a "like new" 2017 iMac 27". It has the i7 processor, Radeon Pro 850 8GB graphics, 500GB SSD, and 16GB RAM. The plan is to increase the RAM to 64GB. The purchase price was less than $900. I installed Ventura (macOS), the latest version of Photoshop, and Workspace V2.2 with the AI noise reduction option. The "new" iMac is quick, and the 5K display is excellent. Workspace and the AI noise reduction option work great. I am still concerned about Olympus cameras plus marketing research and will cover all this in my next article...

XXX

I upgraded my Macbook Pro (M1) first. The installation went quick, and everything seemed OK. See a summary of the V2.2 updates at this link. It's the same as V2.0. (Right-click and copy the link if it doesn't open.) The experience is different for my iMac. The PC-RAW "update" opens more questions. I saw some photographers demand unconditional loyalty to OM-System. How much loyalty should companies enjoy when our personal computers, data, and applications are open to marketers? 

Why a different PC-RAW experience for OM-1 and EM1 photographers? OM-System gives no technical reasons for "conventional" versus OM-1 photographers. Are they segregating their "conventional" loyal consumers? One group with "conventional" Pro cameras gets less functionality, and another with OM-System cameras enjoys FULL functionality? Is this a winning strategy for OM-System? 

See my OM-5 comments here.

Keep a watchful eye on the following trends. This applies to ALL editing applications:-

• Newer programs like PS only open with a direct Web link to Adobe.
• Another trend is AI wanting more processing power and expensive PCs
• Editing applications should be free from market research on customer PCs

Please check the required PC specifications for V2.2...

Do NOT upgrade if you use an older PC.

                                                           Copied from the latest Workspace Manual

My comments as I discover V2.2:-

• My Macbook M1 is slower with Version 2.2. It's now the same as my iMac with V2.11.
• There are no improvements for conventional EM1 II/III/X cameras in PC-RAW mode.
• I really like the AI Noise Reduction from WS. OM-System is becoming a leader in NR.
• Being a leader among camera manufacturers means AI NR is tailored for our cameras.
• The standard NR function in WS is excellent. I use the Low option most of the time.
• I tested the AI NR option versus standard NR, and the results were the same at ISO800.
• I updated my old iMac to the new V2.2 version. This version is way slower than V2.11.
• I have Cataline V10.15.7 installed on my iMac. All my editing software is OK, except...
• The color card in my iMac is not compatible with the AI version of PS and PhotoLab 6.
• Interestingly, the color card does have 2GB memory but is still not OK for Workspace AI.
• The V2.2 upgrade is the SLOWEST version of Workspace - this is so frustrating!
• My iMac gave a security warning after the installation. Do they need this much access?
• Market research & personal PCs are a conclusion, as I found no other reason for V2.2.
• I am preparing a separate article to discuss image/video editing and what PC you need.

Conclusion

Workspace and the Enhanced Raw Format combination offer excellent raw conversion and photo editing. It has the perfect environment to review and edit our camera settings while maximizing the computational features of Olympus cameras. It also delivers high-quality 16-bit Tiff files. All this means nothing if AI or more market research needs 4-minute update cycles for each adjustment. My Macbook Pro with the M1 processor was also slower after the V2.2 upgrade. I am happy with my older iMac. ON1 2023 uses AI and performs perfectly OK with my older iMac.

I did a lunchtime photo shoot this week. As expected, the lighting had a little more contrast. I used ISO800 and center-weighted AE for my EM1 III. This improved my sensor's saturation for the subject areas and overexposed the background areas with up to +1EV. This is an example of managing your SNR to ISO ratio. I noticed Photoshop had more noise in the converted raw files than WS. 

I see no difference between the standard and AI noise reduction functions at lower ISOs. AI is more effective at higher ISOs. OM-Systems should prioritize Workspace because it is one of the most user-friendly and appealing differentiators by any manufacturer. OM-System enjoys a significant head start with Workspace. I hope they stop the silly "segregation" games and improve their marketing efforts on promoting the Enhanced Raw Format and Workspace...

Standard NR set to Low.

AI NR with the Low setting.

 

OMDS Workspace V2.11

Launch date:- January 2023

One of the biggest problems with the previous versions of OMWS was speed. They were so slow that I decided to keep the previous (V1.5) version of Workspace on my older Macbook Pro. I am happy to see that V2.11 is FAST. This is the best news possible for those of us using Workspace. Thank you, OM-System. I will add additional information as I get to know the upgraded version...

Copy and paste the link (below) in your browser for more information from OM-System.

file:///Library/Application%20Support/OMDigitalSolutions/OMWorkspace/Guide/index_ENU.html

Comments:

• I tried PCRAW mode with my EM1 III, and the editing window did NOT change. It's still different from the regular editing window. Why does the OM-1 get access to the default editing window in PC-RAW mode and not the EM-1s? This is annoying and frustrating...
• We can't save our converted raw files as 16-bit Tiff files in PCRAW mode. I have been using DxO PhotoLab while waiting for a faster OMWS V2 upgrade. I can export my PhotoLab 16-bit Tiff file to Photoshop, plus Deeprime works with my 2014 iMac...

OMDS Workspace V2.10

Launch date:- November 2022

Speed continues to be the biggest problem for this version. Why is this not a priority..?

OMDS Workspace V2.01

Launch date:- May 2022

New Products or Firmware Updates:

 - None

Updates:

- Workspace was updated to allow for OM-1 updates via WS

- The following cameras now have the backup function

- OM-1, EM1X, EM1 II/III, EM5 II (V3 and later), Pen F (V2 or later)

- OMDS recommends using WS V2.01 when updating your camera  

- It seems OMDS added some stability improvements in V2.01

Comments: (reviewed)

• The more powerful version 2 is much slower than the V1.5 plus requires more PC power. It could be a good idea to keep the V1.5 version and only upgrade if you bought an OM-1. 
• One of the issues with V2.0 is the button or link to your preferred editing application. This button stopped working with V2.0. This is mainly an issue with Photoshop 2022 because the actual PS App is now in a sub-dir from the Adobe folder in the Applications folder. WS V2 does not allow us to access subfolders from the Applications App folder. It is not an issue with V1.5...
• Workaround - (I tested the option (see illustration) below)
• It works, but it opens the basic raw file and not the edited WS file
• Another option is to go back to the first (Photoshop) option in WS (see below)
• It takes a longer time to open the image in PS (maybe a minute)
• When you select the 8-bit file option, then it will open a jpeg
• If you do not use the 8-bit option, then it defaults to the Tiff format
• With this option, the WS adjustments are transferred to PS
• This does not happen with the older V1.5 version.
• I wish OMDS would see this and prioritize a fix. I reported this to Adobe.
• Waiting a minute is no good (time). What is the alternative OMDS?
• I experienced NONE of this with my new M1 Macbook Pro and WS (V2)

• I removed V2 from an older Macbook Pro and my iMac and reinstalled V1.5. It worked on my Macbook. Workspace was super fast again on my older iMac. I experienced problems transferring files to Photoshop, plus some editing reset features are no longer available in WS... I reinstalled V2.01 on my iMac and created a new database. See my comments below...
• You will lose the new AI noise reduction from V2.0 if you downgrade. I am happy with both DxO Photolab and the new Deep-Prime option. Update: - Be aware that V1.5 and V2 are using the same image database, and this causes the downgrade to be a problem. The best option is NOT to upgrade to V2 and to wait for a fix)
• Like older versions, V2 does not accept my iMac graphics card with 2GB memory!! Why does this happen? It has to be quicker with a "non-compatible" color card than without.
• I bought my new Macbook Pro with the M1 processor (baby model). It works like a dream with V2, it's super quick, and the AI noise reduction works... (It's a good solution for WS!!)

OMDS Workspace V2.0

Launch date:- Feb 2022

New Products or Firmware Updates:

 - The new OMDS OM-1 camera was launched

Updates:

- Workspace has been re-introduced as OMDS software 

- Sequential shooting image group display

- This feature makes it easier to find specific scenes in a series of recorded images

- A new Focus Analyzer for groups of images 

- It evaluates the focus in each group of sequential images 

- A new AI Noise reduction option for Olympus cameras 

Comments:

• The powerful Workspace V2 seems slower than the older V1.5 version and requires much more PC power. It could be a good idea to keep V1.5 and only upgrade if you bought the new OM-1. 
• I removed V2 from an older Macbook Pro and iMac and reinstalled V1.5. Works great and is super fast...
• One of the issues with V2.0 is the button or link to your preferred editing application. This button stopped working with V2.0. This is mainly an issue with PS because the actual PS App is in a sub dir in the applications folder. WS V2 does not allow us to access subfolders from the Applications App folder. The older V1.5 version is not slow...
• You will lose the new AI noise reduction with V2.0 when you downgrade. I am happy with both DxO Photolab and the new Deep-Prime options.
• Like other versions, V2 does not accept my iMac graphics card with 2GB..!!
• I replaced my old Macbook Pro (baby model) with the newer M1 processor (baby model) in Dec 2021. It works like a dream with V2. It's quick, and the AI noise reduction works...
• See my previous upgrade comments, as most problem areas are the same...
• I hope OMDS will fix these issues soon...

Olympus Workspace V1.4 & V1.5

Launch date:- June 2021

I didn't add new information on V1.4 because the changes are not noticeable, plus it is unclear who did the updates, Olympus or OMDS...

Updates: (This is an exciting update BUT poorly communicated)

The V1.5 update happened in June 2021. The only "official" info I could find was the update added new products and general improvements.

See my comments below for this upgrade:

- It seems support for the new E-P7 was added (Most other raw converters offer no support)

- The Color Adjust function will show what colors the cursor is pointing to. Great!!

- A significant upgrade to the Color Profile - See How-To tips No. 21 - here.

- Workspace is now faster and more responsive...

- You can now also show the AF point in the image - this is great!! (See my how-to page)

- It also seems the AF point in WS does not work - it always reports the center point.

- The Color and MonoChrome Profile was opened to several other cameras' raw files

- New ART filters and Options added (E-P7). These are NOT open for all cameras

- All MK III and AP Menus can be edited with the new ART filters (raw format)

Comments:

1. Olympus didn't fix software (WS) settings or options. When I added my iMac graphics card to the WS settings, it was accepted and rejected immediately. Even while my iMac has the 2GB video card WS requested.
2. The Display Color Management option does not work. (That said, if you edit an image, then WS uses the image's color settings. If the image is set to RGB and your PC display to RGB, you're OK...
3. The User Manual has not been updated to V1.5 - it's still at V1.4.1
4. ART Filters. OMDS opened the new options for cameras with the AP Menu. That means you can edit any E-P7 raw file. The E-M1 was also added to the AP list, but the other OMDs were not...

Olympus Workspace V1.3

Launch date:- 27 March 2020 (V1.3.1)

WorkSpace has been updated to V1.3.1, and includes the following:-

- Actual WorkSpace
- Olympus Updater
- WorkSpace Help File

Launch date:- 12 February 2020 (V1.3)

New Products or Firmware Updates:

 - Olympus EM1 III was launched

Updates:

 - Video sound replacement was added (Replace video sound with LS-P4 recording)
 - Print background color selection added
 - Stability improvements

Comments:

None

Olympus Workspace V1.2

Launch date:- 17th October 2019

New Products or Firmware Updates:

 - Olympus OMD EM5 III was launched
 - Olympus Pen E-PL 10 was launched

Updates:

 - Multiple Composites added
 - JPEG Picture Mode (MonoChrome and Sepia)
 - Level Adjustment (Opacity) of ART filter effect added (only some)

Comments:

The ART filter opacity slider is compatible with the EPL10 and the EM10 III. Not all the ART filters can be adjusted, only the Pop Art and Soft Focus1 filters.

Olympus Workspace V1.1

Launch date:- 19th June 2019

New Products or Firmware Updates:

 - Olympus OMD EM1X Firmware V1.1
 - Olympus OMD EM1 II Firmware V3.0

Software Updates:

 - Connecting the EM1X and the EM1 II to a PC for high-speed Raw Data Editing
 - New functions were added

- Focus stacking

- Lighten Composite

 - New and improved Noise Reduction options
 - There are software and stability improvements
 - Multiple screen views are possible with V1.1

Comments:

 - USB RAW data edit is compatible with the EM1 II (V3), EM1X (V1.1), and the EM1 III

Olympus Workspace V1.0

Launch date:- 28th January 2019

New Products or Firmware Updates:

 - The EM1X was launched.

Comments:

Olympus Workspace was released and is available for download. First impressions were positive, but it also had some initial problems, like a strange purple screen at times or it would freeze.

One of the first things one noticed is that Workspace is much quicker than the older Viewer 3. Olympus completely redesigned the editing environment and new functions like Dehaze and Clarity. Olympus Workspace also lost a few tasks that were part of Viewer 3. See the article I wrote.

Olympus Viewer 3

Viewer 3 was the previous image editing software from Olympus. Apart from being slow, Viewer 3 was a reasonably powerful editing tool. I kept my copy of Viewer 3 on my PC.

The free download from Olympus was terminated on 31st March 2019.