Amateur Photographer: Why are Olympus cameras so overlooked? It’s the best image quality possible for the size

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Joshua Waller from Amateur Photographer writes

For me, the Micro Four Thirds system is one of the most compelling camera systems available, in fact it offers some of the highest image quality possible for the size. If you want to use a small camera, then there is little image quality on offer from a compact camera (with a small sensor), but with Micro Four Thirds, you can have a larger than 1-inch sensor, and your own choice of lens. I have multiple lenses that I absolutely love to use on OM cameras and can tell the difference in image quality compared to a compact camera or a smartphone.  

OM System cameras (and Olympus beforehand) have been amongst the industry leaders when it comes to computational photography, it’s designed to help you capture things that are otherwise more difficult on other cameras. Since Live Bulb/Time, the ability to see the image as it develops on the screen is something that is incredible to see, and it’s worth looking at a demonstration in person or in a video to see how it can be used, and with LiveND you can capture slow moving water without fiddling with filters.  

I could go on… but won’t. But look at how many people are choosing OM cameras for macro work and judge them by their work – it will be hard to be anything but impressed. The camera system’s macro features such as focus-stacking, as well as small compact weather-sealed macro lenses, make the cameras a great choice, and in addition to this, the weather-sealing and small size, also make them great for going out in all weather conditions.

How does OM get so overlooked in comparison to other camera brands? Perhaps it’s time for the obsession with full-frame sensors to be left in the darkroom. (ha-ha, see what I did there, made a 35mm film reference).  

To be honest, I have noticed a slight resurgence of interest in the Micro Four Thirds system. The question is whether OM Digital and Panasonic are willing to invest and take risks in developing new models that are more than just minor improvements on existing cameras. We will see in 2026 if they surprise us.

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a bit of everything…

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OM SYSTEM 50-200mm f/2.8 VS 40-150mm f/2.8 | Which Is Best?

Today deals at Amazon, BHphoto, Adorama, Amazon DE, Amazon UK, Amazon FR, Amazon IT, FotoErhardt DE, FotoKoch DE.
Why Are There No MFT Camcorders/Handicams? (Reddit M43 group)
✨ My Favorite Photos of 2025: All Captured Using ONLY A BUDGET Micro Four Thirds Camera – Lumix GF9 (Gary W).
Gifts for the Photographer Who Has It All (Explora)
How I Get Out Of Creative Blocks In Photography (42West)

Plenty of news on the facebook OMD group, Panasonic FF and the GH5 group.
I kindly invite you all to follow me on Youtube, Instagram, Threads for more broader camera talk.


My Favorite Adventure Camera of the Year?


The Most Expensive MFT vs the Cheapest Full Frame – Shocking Results


My Favorite Micro 4/3 Lenses for Video & Photo


Your OM System Camera Has THIS Magic Long Exposure Mode… Live Comp Explained!


A boring :) M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 17mm F1.8 II AF test

We Ranked Every Camera From 2025 (Golden Hour Podcast and Connor McCaskill)
The Ultimate Travel Camera for 2026? OM3 in the Netherlands (Maher Zi Voyager)
Mylene Mae on Trends, Staying Curious, and Creating for Fun (Explora)
Gear Up: The Hottest New Tools for Photographers and Filmmakers (42West)

Being More INTENTIONAL In Photography Using Micro Four Thirds? (Gary W).
The Panasonic GH6 – The Video Camera That Is AWESOME For Photography (Robert Grant).
Lightroom Like a Pro: Part 1 (Explora)
Why Everyone Should Have A Point-and-Shoot (42West)

How They’re Made: Sigma Lenses (Youtube PetaPixel)
Gear Doesn’t Matter – Collective Gallery: Portrait, Wildlife Photography – M4/3 in ACTION (Gary W).
Lighting Multiple Sets with Nanlite (Explora)
Does Capturing Wildlife Photos in Parks Really Count as Wildlife Photography? (42West)

Sorry not sorry – these were the WORST cameras of 2025 (DigitalCameraWorld).
🤔 If I Could Only Have ONE MICRO FOUR THIRDS CAMERA, Which One Will It Be? (Gary W)
Analog Photobooths: Vintage Memory Makers (42West)

Old glass on m43 is so fun (Reddit).
Lightroom Like a Pro: Part 2 (Explora)
Top 10 Photography Spots to Visit This Winter (42West)

Explora:
The Best Cases for Your New Graphics Card (Explora)
Top Creator Accessories of 2025 (Explora)
Genaray Release GXS-200BI Monolight and PX-MOD-3 Modular Panel (Explora)
Litepanels Astra IP Review: The Toughest Bi-Color LED Light Panel? (Explora)
Profoto Releasing L600 Mono-LED Lights and ProPanel 3×2 RGB Panel (Explora)
Demystifying Strobe Lighting for Beginners (Explora)

42West:
How to Set Yourself Apart as a YouTuber in a World Increasingly Dominated by AI (42West)
THE SKINNY ON FILM SCANNING (42West)
How to Master Waterfall Photography (42West)
How To Take Dreamy Slow Shutter Speed Photos (42West)

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OM System New Products 2026: OM-1III, new PEN and Tough?

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DClife predicted what OM SYSTEM could announce in 2026:

It’s about time to expect the arrival of a new generation of cameras. For example, I’d love to see the release of the “OM-1III” or a new Micro Four Thirds camera similar to the “PEN-F.” While the compact digital camera market seems to be booming recently, OM SYSTEM hasn’t seen any movement since the release of the “Tough TG-7” in 2023. Hopefully, we’ll see some movement in 2026. OM SYSTEM tends to announce new products in the lead-up to CP+, so we should expect information (rumors) starting around the new year. CP+ 2026 will be held February 26th-March 1st.

Yes, I think OM will announce something new before the CP+ show. Don’t see the OM1III coming yet, also a new PEN seems far out if we believe the statements from the manager. A new Tough camera is highly likely to be announced and maybe also a new MFT lens.

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a bit of everything…

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OM SYSTEM 150-600mm FULL REVIEW: Wildlife Photography Super Telephoto GAME-CHANGER?

Today deals at Amazon, BHphoto, Adorama, Amazon DE, Amazon UK, Amazon FR, Amazon IT, FotoErhardt DE, FotoKoch DE.
The (Almost) Perfect Minimal Camera Kit for Outdoor Photography (Henry Tunrner)
The picture quality you get from the “Plastic Fantastic” kit lens always amazes me (Reddit M43 group).
Cinema Cameras: What Filmmakers Need to Know (Explora)
Gear Up, Part 2: Must-Have Cameras and Lenses (42West)

Plenty of news on the facebook OMD group, Panasonic FF and the GH5 group.
I kindly invite you all to follow me on Youtube, Instagram, Threads for more broader camera talk.

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First couple weeks with Big White (150-400mm f/4.5 + OM-1ii)

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Reddit member Mike shared some very beautiful images shot with the $8999 (!!!) OM 150-400mm PRO lens. The images and his report got a ton if likes and comments so I think it’s worth to jump over to Reddit to see his images and also to read his findings I reposted here:

So, I’ve been slowly selling my equipment to save up for the 300 f/4. However, while stumbling around in Japan, I came across one of those rare “buy it now or you may regret it forever” situations…long story short, I passed on the prime and came back with Big White. Since my wallet wasn’t expecting this, I’ll be exclusively eating tomato soup in the foreseeable future. But whatever. I like tomato soup. 

Some things I’ve learned in recent weeks:

– Obviously the lens is fantastic, but I’m a little surprised why. The specialness comes from the versatility. The quality at every focal length + the 4.5 constant aperture + the TC + the lovely balance = a Swiss Army knife in the field. The image quality is just one bit of the equation.

– With that said, I’ll now say something that no Youtuber will ever say in a video lest they wreck their affiliate link potential: For most people, this lens is an absolute waste of money. There, I said it. This is a very niche product for a very niche user—I would wager that most people will find the 300 f/4 or the new 50-200mm to be a better buy. BUT if you tend to plan your trips around wildlife photography, or you often find yourself crawling through muck in freezing rain to inch closer to a bird’s stupid beak, I can’t think of anything more flexible. I’m very happy with my choice. 

– The OM-1 ii’s AF just works better with this specific lens (and the AF-All target mode is ridiculously good paired with it). It might be due to the motors or the extra light it’s gathering. Or maybe all my used equipment was just busted and I never knew better.

– After years of no photographer wanting to talk to me in the field, everyone and their grandma wanted to talk to me when I had Big White out. (I legit think they thought it was a new Canon lens.)To their credit, they were all very respectful when I went into my tedious monologue about the pros and cons of M43. And just to confirm the suspicion of OM Marketing, most of these guys and gals had no clue what Micro Four Thirds is.

(Side tangent: Photographers who own a Sony or Canon full frame 600mm f/4 will let you know very quickly, and it will always come up in an awkward way. Funny enough, none of them had the lens with them while they were out. They were just really proud to tell me it’s in their house.)

– I was afraid that a white lens would make animals more skittish, but there was no discernible difference. In fact, some even came up to me to talk about their FF 600mm f/4.

– This lens will NOT magically make you a better photographer or allow you to break physics: bad composition, atmospheric haze, and poor fieldcraft will still result in the same ol’ trash images…just slightly sharper. Drat.

I’m still learning the lens, but ask if you have any questions. Note, most of these photos were taken in not-great light. I’m pleased with the results, but I can’t wait for the sun to return to the PNW…

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Jerred Z tested BIG Prints: Micro Four Thirds vs The Myth

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Jerred Z posted this interesting video that debunks one of the never ending myths, the belief that OM Systems’ 20-megapixel sensors are inadequate.

Despite widespread skepticism, 20 megapixels can indeed deliver impressive prints. Jerred shares personal experiences successfully printing images as massive as 5 feet(!!!) wide without sacrificing quality. This challenges the traditional notion of needing higher megapixels for large prints.

Five Guiding Concepts for Large Prints

  • Good Technique and Lenses: Mastery of camera settings in manual mode combined with high-quality lenses can make a significant difference. The OM Systems lenses, such as the 12-100mm F4 and 50-200mm 2.8, are highlighted for their sharpness and reliability.
  • Utilizing High Resolution Modes: Techniques like handheld high-resolution modes can yield up to 50 megapixels, or even 80 in tripod mode, benefiting dynamic range and reducing noise. Using these modes creatively can enhance output.
  • Editing Matters: The editing process is crucial, like utilizing tools like Lightroom to improve image quality before printing.
  • Overcoming Challenges: By embracing editing methods such as denoising and sharpening, photographers can prepare their images for printing effectively, ensuring quality is maintained.
  • Collaboration with Printers: Establishing a relationship with a skilled printer is emphasized. Understanding how different paper types affect print results can lead to successful outcomes, even with lower resolutions.

Conclusion: Focus on Creativity

The discussion reiterates that final prints should delight viewers rather than satisfy pixel peepers. Photographers should focus on their craft and the emotions they want to convey through their work, rather than solely concentrating on technical specifications.

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