Last Update: 25th June 2021
Content:-
- Introduction
- The main differences between old and new cameras
- The road to the perfect camera and the perfect image
- Here is my list of top M43 secondhand cameras and lenses...
- My thoughts on lens diffraction, and why the fear for F8.0
- Conclusion
1. Introduction
Photographers that buy secondhand cameras also discover some of the best cameras from yesterday. I have been using secondhand cameras for years and will never forget when the GH4 was costing $2K brand new. Then only a few months into the GH5 and I was able to get one for a mere $650. Secondhand cameras also cost much less the older they get. For example, I recently saw an Olympus E-620 with the 14-54mm f2.8-3.5 PRO lens selling for only $150.
You will also find that photographers using older cameras are more interested in the creative aspects and not the specifications of older cameras. They will look for unique sensor types like CCD or CMOS sensors, the image look or "color science", the handling of the camera, how well the images edit, or the general reputation of the camera.
Olympus E3 with 50-200mm f2.8-3.5 - ISO160, 1/5000, f3.5 (Raw file edited in PhotLab 4, PS, and Luminar 4)
2. The main differences between old and new cameras?
Spending time on another article, I tested several older cameras with the oldest nearly 20 years old. Cameras like the Canon PowerShot G5, the Konica Minolta A2, the Olympus E-330, and the first EM5, literally made me think, what an interesting historical journey.
Then as I was looking at a video of two guys discussing the new GH5 II, one of them explained why photographers now need a new 4K with HDR television, or the latest high-resolution computer displays to enjoy the full benefits of the GH5 II new 10 bit 4:2:0 video format.
They then talked about the "digital look" people are complaining about when viewing 4K 60p on a "normal" PC or 1080p television. The contrast of jumping from a familiar 24p cinema look to the new 60p "gaming" look is something the human eye needs to get used to they explained...
Olympus EM1 with 12-50mm EZ f3.5-6.3 - ISO200, 1/200, f11 (Jpeg out the camera NOT edited)
Photographers using older cameras develop a "unique" photography style by adopting a more relaxed pace. For example, when you are out on a photo walk with something like the Minolta A2, you really rely on this "new" photography style. The positive is the more you do this the more relaxed you are...
Taking my own experience, here are some of the things I keep in mind:
- Older cameras use slower operating speeds, screen updates, and time to save files
- The UI technology is old, EVFs are poor with low resolution, and horrible displays
- The image sensors are old with lower resolution, and some have more image noise
- Some have really interesting features but everything is slow and they need patients
- The batteries on many of these older cameras are not good and expensive to replace
- The memory cards and card slots on some of these older cameras are extremely slow
- And finally, some like the GH4 or the EM1 II are super modern, fast, and advanced
The good news is, as we master the image sensor, the histogram, applying ETTR, or optimizing exposure, cameras like the A2 or the C-8080 are really a joy to many photographers...
Olympus E3 with 50-200mm f2.8-3.5 - ISO 160, 1/500, f3.5 (Raw edited with Photlab 4 and Photoshop)
If you look at cameras like the Panasonic LX7 or the Canon S120, you will see the S120 is in a completely different league in terms of user experience. The S120 is quick, the UI is modern, and it has a modern sensor and image processing. The problem is the S120 is way too small.
The LX7 on the other hand is not a bad photographic tool, it is just older. In some respects, it's probably the better choice. It's more flexible than the S120, uses a modern CMOS architecture, can accept an EVF, and is fitted with a fantastic and fast Leica lens.
The bottom line is when you evaluate older cameras everything changes. I was testing an older gimbal and had my Panasonic GH4 on it. I know most forum experts will say the GH4 has no IBIS or the contrast-detect CAF is just not good enough.
But not planning for people running in and out of the frame, I was surprised to see how responsive the GH4 autofocus really is and the beautiful cinematic 4K look one gets with the GH4. The gimbal also helped to boost the cinematic output of the GH4 and it literally made my older GH4 shine again. Interesting, no matter how hard I tried in the past, I never managed to sell my GH4...
Olympus EP3 with 12mm f2.0 Lens - ISO200, 1/800, f7.1 (Raw edited with WorkSpace)
I bought two secondhand gimbals in 2020, the Feiyutech G6 Plus which you see below, and a Pilotfly. My wife uses the G6 with her EM10 III. The Pilotfly did not work well and we gave it away. This week I found another gimbal in great condition and bought it for $10.
As promised, I will be talking more about videos in the future. It is important that you ask yourself, what types of videos you like to create with your Olympus. If you are interested in family videos, wildlife, nature, or maybe a basic documentary then a small setup like this is the answer.
Olympus E3 with 50-200mm f2.8-3.5 - ISO160, 1/200, f3.5 (Raw edited with PhotoLab 4)
3. The road to your perfect camera or the perfect image...
The focus on specifications has become a challenge for many photographers. Without getting into many details, I thought a simple illustration will do...
Photographers with secondhand cameras generally freed themselves from the hype and the media programming. When you are on a journey learning everything about an older camera like the Nikon D700, then it doesn't matter if the pixel definition can't compete with the latest Sony's...
Guess what 2001 camera he use?
This is interesting because breaking from always having the best electronic gadgets does result in having more freedom. It is exactly this freedom that makes discovering older cameras so much fun. No matter what camera you have, the perspective discussed in the video below explains why the only thing standing between the camera and that next winning image, is the photographer.
These 5 Tips are so appropriate to this part of the discussion...
For example, the really "ancient" Olympus E-M10 II is probably one of the most exciting secondhand cameras up for sale. I honestly cannot imagine what the Olympus engineers were thinking when they finalized the specifications on this camera. The EM10 II often feels more like a baby EM5 MKII than a follow-up to the original Olympus E-M10. Even more surprising is how little they cost today...
Talking about having too much emphasis on specification, when Olympus introduced the EM5 III with its new composite materials, people immediately complained. This was also not the first time a manufacturer used composite materials to build a camera. Believe me, you really appreciate the reduced weight once you spend time with something like the EM5 III on a gimbal...
4. Here are my list of top secondhand M43 cameras and lenses
The secondhand supply chain has become a completely new way of sourcing M43 equipment. It also made it possible to substitute the "disappearing" entry-level with great cameras future professional photographers can grow with.
Thinking of the secondhand supply chain, if you had a choice between a new EM10 MKIV or an older and secondhand EM1 MKII selling at a lower price, which one would you choose?
Olympus E3 with 14-54mm f2.8-3.5 - ISO160, 1/120, f9.0
My selection criteria for the next part of the discussion are these different points:
- Size - the focus is on M43 solutions offering the full-size benefit of the M43 format
- Those camera/lens combinations offering +98% image quality using Zuiko lenses
- High-quality M43 cameras and lenses typically sell at good secondhand prices
- The reputation of cameras with special or unique functions & available features
Olympus E3 with 50-200mm, f2.8-3.5 - ISO350, 1/250, f3.5 (Raw edited with PS)
The "best" entry-level M43 cameras with a lens below $120
When you consider the $120 price point, the Olympus EP3 immediately jumps to mind. All M43 kit lenses were also great lenses and seen in package deals on entry-level cameras.
The EP3 quality build and unique firmware make for an interesting listing below:-
- The Olympus Pen EP3 is a beautifully designed camera
- The EP3 offers all the advantages of the new M43 design
- The EP3 has all the Olympus ASAT and iEnhance features
- The EP3 has a good high ISO capability (up to ISO1600)
- The EP3 offers FAST AF (The fasted AF when launched)
- The EP3 has a Touch Screen with new/advanced features
- Olympus unique Fine Detail Processing (the 1st Version)
- IBIS with movie mode (The EP3 is great to start with video)
- The EP3 has several new and improved movie functions
- SCN Modes, ART filters, and several other creative modes
- The EP3 has a unique multi-function port (not in newer models)
- The EP3 has the ability to accept a separate EVF module
- The 2 step exposure technique and ETTR work well with the EP3
- It does not have Live Composite, Live Time, Curves, or Color Creator
- The EP3 has the interesting Olympus Monochrome settings
- The EP1/2/3 are known for the Legendary Oly Colors and IQ
The Olympus Pen E-P3
There are several other interesting M43 cameras at this price point, like the E-PL5 (16MP) with a kit lens below $100. The OMD EM10 is a 16MP entry-level OMD and another best-ever from Olympus. The original EM10 has outstanding image quality. They sell in mint condition for less than $100.
The "best" entry-level M43 cameras below $200
In the $200 price range, you will find many M43 cameras like the EM10 II, and Panasonic cameras like the G3, G6, G7, or the GH2/3. My favorite OMD in this price range is the EM10 II. They are often available with the 14-42mm EZ lens in this price range. The EM10 II is a big jump up from the EP3 in terms of functionality, features, and performance. If you upgrade from the EP3, keep your 14-42mm kit lens and use it with the EM10 II.
Olympus E3 with 50-200mm, f2.8-3.5 - ISO160, 1/1250, f3.5 (Raw edited with PhotoLab 3 and PS)
Here are a few unique EM10 II features:-
- The EM10 MKII has 90% of the OMD range unique features
- An improved 16MP sensor with great image and video capability
- The memory card slot is SDXC and UHS-II compatible (good for video)
- The EM10 II has almost all the video functions available in the EM5 II
- The EM10 II has the Super Fine option for video, producing great quality
- The EM10 II has an improved 5-axis IBIS and is also available in video mode
- The EM10 II offers 4K timelapse, Live Composite, Curves, Color Creator
- The ART filters and scene modes have been upgraded with more options
- The EM10 MKII is 97% of the EM5 MKII without splash/dust sealing
- The EM10 II works well with the 2 step exposure technique and ETTR
The EM10 II will grow with photographers to advanced levels of photography. In fact, it's a good idea to have two of them and to keep one as a spare or use them in multi-camera set-ups, especially as and when your video skills improve. It's possible to build advanced 3 camera "video" setups with the EM10 II and have money in the bank...
The Olympus EM10 MKII
One of the stronger selling points most Olympus photographers appreciate is the scalability of OMD cameras. Most of the OMD cameras have the option to fit an add-On Grip, battery grip, or a combination of the two. This ability to transform something like the EM10 II from a pocketable to a sturdy workhorse makes it more comfortable when using bigger lenses.
The "best" M43 secondhand cameras below $400
As I have been searching for information on the GH4, I have been listening to videos talking about the GH4. My journey to find talented creators still using the GH4 was inspiring to say the least. Who would have thought any digital camera this "old" continues to be an amazing creative tool.
I have been tracking GH4 prices for approximately 3 years, and the going rate is now well below $400. This week I saw one listed with a shutter count of less than 500 in mint condition. The starting price was listed at $350 and it sold for $420.
Panasonic Lumix GH4 Hybrid Camera
Here are a few of the unique GH4 features:-
- The GH4 is a truly hybrid mirrorless camera with great video and image features
- The GH4 has been that camera starting many professional videography careers
- There are good DJI gimbals available at good prices and they perfect for the GH4
- There is a huge secondhand supply of GH4 options and peripherals at great prices
- The web is packed with great information, advice, and training on the GH4
- The GH4 still offers many more advanced video functions than most new cameras
- The GH4 is an excellent hybrid with the 12-35mm & 35-100mm f2.8 combo
- You can add the V-LOG profile for $100 including many more options on the web
- The GH4 is the perfect camera to learn and master both Photoshop & Final Cut
- The GH4 is the only +6-year-old camera with so many advanced video functions
- You will find any information you can ever think of about the GH4 on the web
- Believe it or not, the GH4 will output 10Bit 4:2:2 to an external recorder...
- The GH4 has several advanced motion options that are great for learning video...
It's a pleasure to listen to someone with experience and good commonsense
The best M43 secondhand cameras below $650
The Olympus EM5 II, EM1 II, and the Panasonic G9
As you can see at this price point the possibilities are unlimited. The above image shows the EM5 II, the EM1 II, and the Panasonic G9. These and many others like them are available at and below this price point. Yes, you should ask the seller questions and if possible collect the camera or ask a friend to do it for you. My personal experience in the Swiss market is very positive and I have never been disappointed. I realized this is probably not the case in all Countries.
I have seen the EM5 II prices are lower in 2021 and they now selling for less than $350. The one thing you need to carefully inspect on EM5 II cameras is the condition of the paintwork. This is the only OM-D that I am aware of with this problem. The paint rubs off with normal wear and tear and looks terrible when they are older. If you care about the visual "condition" of your camera, then ask before you make any final offer on a secondhand E-M5 II.
A mild sample of "normal" EM5 II wear and tear...
Let's discuss some top M43 lenses and great secondhand deals
My top 3 Olympus compact lenses
The 3 compacts below were my first serious upgrade. I read so many negative slurs about these amazing lenses and best of all, they never disappointed me. I seldom buy new gear as I always look for 2nd hand package deals. I then sell the parts I don't need to help fund the ones I really want. Through the years I had several of these compacts and I always tried them before selling them again. I never found a bad copy or one that underperformed.
These 3 lenses typically sell between $130 and $160 each and have:-
- The 45mm f1.8 is an excellent portrait lens. Although interesting, it's best for portraits.
- The 50mm f1.8 is an interesting "nifty fifty" lens. Good for movies and photography.
- The 17mm f1.8 lens is a good multi-purpose lens. It's small, lightweight w good glass
The Olympus ZUIKO 25mm f1.8, the 17mm f1.8, and the 45mm f1.8 lenses
Depending on your budget and your personal needs, here are 3 more great compacts:
- The Olympus 75mm f1.8 - is probably one of the best Olympus compact lenses
- The Olympus 12mm f2.0 - is a fantastic wide-angle for video and landscapes
- Leica 25mm f1.4 - it offers half a stop, cost, and weight benefit over f1.2 lenses
While the f1.8 lenses are great for most types of photography, they are excellent at low-light with their fast f1.8 apertures. Being fixed focal lengths, the image quality generally equals or beats most zoom lenses, especially something like the 75mm f1.8 lens. Next time you are in the city at night, try the 17mm or the 12mm f2.0 lens. The 12mm is a truly amazing lens and one of my preferred lenses.
What about Olympus lenses and lens diffraction?
It took Olympus and Panasonic years to develop a good reputation with the ZUIKO and Lumix brands. As you know, Panasonic even worked with Leica to build a strong Lumix brand. We see that Zuiko, Leica, and Lumix are all good and reputable brands today. It's difficult to think they would now risk having a bad reputation, poor lens designs, or abnormal lens diffraction issues?
Olympus E3 with 50mm f2.0 Lens - Raw edited in PhotoLab 4 and prepped for the web in PS
While full-frame advocates are generally correct about creamy backgrounds or isolating subjects, they do not always give the full story. You have to ask yourself, what's the equivalent benefit for crop sensors photographers? The solution is to simply consider the opposite of what they claim. In this example, the opposite to creamy backgrounds are sharp images or landscapes.
Why would they like M43 photographers to believe that lens diffraction is an issue at F5.6 and not the generally accepted F8.0 to F11? The answer is found in the equivalence arguments they always use. For example, the equivalent of F8.0 on M43 cameras is F16 on full-frame cameras. This simply means full-frame advocates will see lens diffraction when M43 photographers use F8.0. They simply protect themselves while suppressing M43 photographers. See this article.
Also, see this example of an M43 photographer testing the lens diffraction rumor. It's a great example of taking a more critical approach and not accepting everything full-frame advocates promote...
Source - (Using "Expert" opinions is marketing 101)
The above example demonstrates how the reviewer wants you to believe lens diffraction has nothing to do with lens design and that it's simply linked to "equivalence". This is while M43 photographers NEVER asked about, or experienced any serious issues with lens diffraction.
With examples like this, some would call it deliberately spreading false information. That said, constant repetition and sadly many M43 photographers believed the misinformation, and some are today either repeating the rumor themselves or really afraid of using M43 apertures above F5.6.
The Multi-Purpose 12-50mm, f3.5-6.3 EZ selling for less than $120
I like to introduce one of the most interesting secondhand Olympus kit lenses. When Olympus introduced this kit lens (yes kit lens), it took forums a little while to figure it out and when they did, panic and fear broke loose as this lens received so much negative criticism that today it's one of the most underrated M43 lenses ever. Makes you think of the Pen F...
Sadly I was also distracted by the massive forum and product review negative storm and I completely neglected mine for years. I kept mine and recently decided to take it out again. All I can say is, that the 12-50mm is an amazing lens and worth every penny on the secondhand market...
Here are a few additional comments about the 12-50mm lens:-
- The lens has a 12-50mm (24-100mm FF equivalent) zoom range
- It's great for landscape photography, portraits, and medium telephoto
- This is a great lens for video projects with its electrical zoom control
- It includes the Olympus MSC (Movie & Still Compatible) technology
- It comes with a new linear motor resulting in fast & quiet zoom motion
- It offers different electrical zoom speeds to create video simulations
- To make it an even more interesting "kit" lens, its dust & splash-proof
- In macro mode, it will focus as close as 20mm with 0.72x magnification
- Add a multiplier to the front and you ready for a great macro experience
- This lens is sharp from 12 to 50mm, f3.5 and up, and corner to corner
- The only downside is the lens is relatively slow and requires good light
- This is the only kit lens with absolutely TOP quality glass elements
- This is a clear illustration of why Olympus became that amazing brand
The really interesting 40-150mm (80-300mm) zoom lens
Olympus 40-150mm f4-5.6 lens
This is probably one of the best secondhand giveaways if you manage to find one. They sell for less than $50 most of the time. If you need a faster zoom on a budget, you could try the older Four Thirds 50-200mm f2.8 - f3.5 or the 40-150mm f3.5-4.5. You need an adapter for these two lenses but that's OK if you think what you get with these lenses.
My son is a Pro Photographer. I had absolutely nothing to do with that...
I purposely presented the secondhand cameras and lenses this way so readers see the difference between an actual user experience and what you see on large photography forums. Fact is, the majority of photographers will never get to the point of pushing any M43 lens to its limit. My advice is, to determine what you need and go get the right lens. Practice good camera techniques, learn how to edit your images, and you are geared for an amazing photography experience.
The sailing community is creating some of the most interesting videos
5. Conclusion
I have not discussed any PRO Lenses. The reason is, that apart from a few, I have limited experience with these lenses. What kept me from buying more is mainly the size and weight of these PRO lenses. That said, probably the best lens I ever owned is my Olympus 12-40mm f2.8 PRO lens, but because of its size and weight, you will find the Lumix 12-35mm f2.8 in my bag.
We haven't talked about the Olympus 9-18mm f4 or the Lumix 7-14mm f4 ultra-wide lenses. Now if you asked the question on forums they will inform you that the 7-14mm has a purple flair issue. What they don't tell you is how any ultra-wide angle pointed at the sun will do this, and how real and talented photographers use flair to their advantage...
We also haven't discussed the excellent Panasonic 8mm fisheye or any of the long zoom lenses like the Olympus 70-300mm or the 14-150mm. They are all great lenses and will please any creative photographer. Folks, there are so many more great M43 cameras and lenses to discuss.
Olympus E3 with 50-200mm f2.8-3.5 - ISO160, 1/1600, f3.5
As you probably noticed, almost all the images in the article were taken in South Africa with my older Olympus E3. All Olympus cameras have the ability to produce super edit-friendly images. Whether it is the older E1, the E3, or an EM1 II, no other camera has this unique ability to produce both RAW and JPEG files that are as edit-friendly. Canon is probably the closest.
Let's close the article with a final thought about why people will collect secondhand M43 cameras and lenses. If you haven't noticed how some M43 photographers get a little emotional about these great cameras, let's make it simple and close with this image...
M43 cameras have always been a great quality offer in a small package at a reasonable price
Additional information:-
- Why the GH4 is a great first camera in 2020 - link
- Panasonic GH4 cinematic commercial - link
- Big Basin state park cinematic video with GH4 - link
