OM-1 Mark II, worth the upgrade? - RED35 Preview
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- čas přidán 7. 08. 2024
- Here it is, OM System's latest flagship Micro Four Thirds camera, the OM-1 Mark II. Two years since the original OM-1, the MFT flagship that made many new friends, reviewers and users. While the new Mark II sports the same look and feel, underneath has gone through some significant upgrades, making the new camera not only a better camera than the OM-1, but also sets new standards for a photography-centric MFT camera. Watch and find out what's new and whether you should upgrade. #microfourthirds #photography #omsystem
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** Contents of this video **
0:00 - Video Start
0:27 - Introduction
3:07 - Design & Build
4:35 - Doubled Buffer
7:10 - Auto Focus Performance (Upgrade)
9:03 - Computational Features (NEW Live GND)
12:07 - Sample Photos
12:39 - Video Performance (Upgrade)
14:57 - Conclusion
18:25 - Outtro
18:41 - Bonus Section
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Two points: 1) This is a reasonable and predictable next version. It addresses the "next step desires" from the OM1 (which I have and love) plus a bit more. Like all other manufactures, trading up one version is a tough call, but upgrading every other version is significant. I still have my M1.2 and use it. I didn't see a big enough reason to go to M1.3 but did with the OM1 and glad I did. While the OM1.2 is tempting and the price is in line with inflation, I'm probably good till the next version comes out years in the future. This is the standard playbook by all camera companies. Which bring me to #2
2). Do the haters realize that they are bringing down the value of their own camera & gear? Bad talk, and wanting upgrades for nothing only brings down the brand and the m43 ecosystem which hurts their own investment/value. Asking for something is different from whining. I was a Canon shooter for decades. My experience with m43, Olympus and now OM System to be much superior. I have more fun and get great results at less cost. I hope you find what gets you to your happy place. I'm good.
Thanks red35 for continued top self content.
current EM1II user, my lenses collection is from way way back when I first bought the OG EM5, the only PRO lens I owned is the first gen 12-40 2.8 while others are mostly fixed 1.8s or Panni Leicas and some non-pro zooms. Considering the price of the OM1II, it's not that much cheaper than investing in a mid-range FF with 2 decent zoom lenses.
What I think Olympus should have done was to launch the OM1II with one or two decent pro zooms, instead, we got a rebatched sigma at a staggeringly inflated price. That was a letdown keeping people from investing in the system.
If OM system will continue to introduce FW upgrades for OM1, I would continue using this brand.
Same here. If they don't issue meaningful firmware updates to people who bought their flagship body, that we all know are possible, I'll never buy another OM product. Great to have options like the G9ii to make the transition easy.
Bye bye then!
(let’s be realistic: at this point in time they have no other option than to sell small firmware updates with new, expensive bodies and heavy margins)
Bye
All the First World Problem bellyaching today is tedious.
These are all fantastic cameras for taking pictures.
Did today's news degrade your ability to take good pictures going forward?
@@FierceSleepingDogSony A9 has had 6 major firmware updates. Sony A7ii has had 4. Canon R6 is on its 8th major release. Fuji is on the 4th for the old XT2....
The standard is to make each body they best it can be. Two years in and the OM1 has had one firmware update of any note. No added features.
They aren't supporting their products to the level of the industry. It's something people should be aware of.
they told that currently there is no plan for that...
Took my OM-1 to yellow stone. Loved how I can fit everything in one bag. While 2 other photographers had Full frame 600MM lens. I can exit Jeep and start shooting getting the shoot. While the other 2 had to set up their tripod.
Literally the first video I watched after publishing mine on the II. Super cool to see that we both came to very similar conclusions!
Thanks Thomas! Great to see you get the camera too! See you this Sunday.
Great minds think alike!
Seems like interesting as the bigger buffer would be a great capability for wildlife, but denying the om a firmware update that finally fixes the af system is a real dick move. As it is mostly the same hardware the same algorithms should run on the om-1 too. Not confidence inspiring when om system wont fix problems to sell a 2000€+ firmware update in the form of a new camerabody. (Have been using e-620, e-5, em-5, em-1, em-1 mkii and om-1 and most of their pro (and ft top pro) lenses) now I think i shouldn’t by any new om system gear as they seem to not care about customers anymore. Damm the om-1 is a flagship body and not a cheap one and they don’t care to fix the af system. That is a core system for any camera and especially sports and wildlife camera. Might go with panasonic or even change systems totally in the future if the don’t get their shit together.
@@Superbus753OMDS have to make profit. They had to make the update with bigger RAM. We have to accept that of you give the firmware update beforevthe hardware upgrade, they would go bankrupt. The firmware Will come. It will. But not until the end of spring or so. They have to sell new camera first.
I hope OMDS makes new firmware not only to OM-1, but to E-M1 mk2-3 too.
You bred hardware to gett full functions. That we have to accept. We have to stop mocking OMDS every time we can. That only benefits Canon and Nikon, not us photographers.
Agreed
I'm gonna stay with my OM-1. I think the upgrade doesn't warrant the price. There's isn't nothing game changing. However, this review was very informative and detailed. Thanks red35!
Good move to not buy an OM-1.2.
The Live Grad ND feature is really smart. I actually can’t believe that other manufacturers haven’t implemented this feature before. Awesome review as usual!!
Other manufactures probably don't think it is that useful. It's more accurate to do it in post or use optical filters. Sure, it is a convenient tool to maybe see what it will look like in real time but just like the emulated ND, etc. they have. Few use them... Live Comp was fantastic but few use it, and then, only occasionally. It is not selling cameras.
The OM1 didn't tempt me away from my EM1ii but the new ND Grads are game changing plus the extra stop of ND filter and the improved DR in HiRes(which you didn't mention). Also, the improved focus stacking will be interesting to see (I still do stacking in software because the built-in doesn't quite get it right, hopefully the new one will!) But the little things like the rubberised control dials will also help me when wearing gloves. Overall this camera gives a much more rounded set of options, it doesn't feel like it's only for wildlife/sports shooters, OMDS have something here for everyone. I'm definitely saving up my pennies.
same em1ii user, I'm still considering an upgrade since the focusing is kinda lackluster. Especially in CAF, there are still a lot of misses even though I've set the focus release Priority to OFF.
Another superb first impression video, Jimmy. Thank you! 🙂
Paul 😎
Hey Jimmy thanks for the interesting review and as always you're spot on. I know that it's forced updated because of the name change, but for me, this is OM-1s, not version II. They could even change the name without any hardware changes and bring all the software goodies with a firmware update at the end the new camera is with the same processor. And where is the firmware update of the OM-1, two years almost nothing, this is completely different behaviour than the Olympus, but it's confirming my doubts that the company doesn't have the R&D to continue updating and evolving existing cameras.
For all the E-M1 users will be a great update, but for OM-1 I prefer to get most of these things with a firmware update even if it's paid than buying a new camera just for better AF performance, it's not worth it.
Well, considering Olympus was loosing $100++ for every camera sold it was clearly not a sustainable financial model for the future.
@@GrenlandUnderVann I don't know from where is this info, but I'm not commenting on the price, just what you get.
@@AnastasTarpanov You know, the only reason the Olympus camera division was divested to JIP was 10+ years of continuous financial loss.
@@GrenlandUnderVann ok and how this is related to the current camera and the software updates we are talking about?
@@GrenlandUnderVannmaybe it would have been smarter to release a new Pen-F that seems to have been asked for a decade. Any non-fake-prism-that-is-a-waste-of-space camera would do.
Instead we get a big bulky mark ii flagship, with minor improvements, most of which will still be better handled in post.
It isn't the customers fault if OMDS doesn't make money, it is their own. There are more types of photography than holding down the shutter and getting 1,000 shots to cull through for 1 picture.
I love Olympus and have 2 OM-1s with most pro lenses. This upgrade is a huge disappointment. Minor firmware improvements with increased buffer memory for higher price. Most of these could be added by firmware upgrade to OM-1, which very likely will never happen after introduction of Mark II. Not improving the video features is also a lost opportunity. The new 150-600 mm rebranded full frame Sigma lens for double of the price of the E or L mount versions is even more disappointing. It shows that OM SYSTEM is not interested in any R&D and just wants to full the loyal customers and make more money. Very sad.
It's not the case that "OM SYSTEM is not interested in any R&D". They just don't have that capability any more. That's what got stripped out in the transfer from Olympus. Firmware, minor hardware mods and third-party lenses under license is their future, until they've squeezed out all the juice from their acquisition.
it is too sad, because the format would have great potential for real innovation and advanced computational photography@@teesee03
You could be right, but you could also be over simplifying things. If the updates are significant in terms of Ram requirements then the MKi might not handle them.
For example, any of the recent games that they made for ps4 and ps5 were significantly hampered by the need to accommodate the ps4s older hardware. When they released only ps5 versions the change was massive. If you consider that in the context of a camera body...you can't just increase the load screen time...cos that ain't how a camera works.
I think we'll have to judge om system at the end of 2024 to see how things have turned out.
when EM1 Mark 2 firmware received a major update the auto-focus performance became in a different league without any hardware update; OM system claims 15% focus improvements in Mark 2; I do not think that it has anything to do with increased RAM. The tracking in original OM-1 is not very good. 14 bit HR mode is nice, but I would prefer 12 bit with motion correction, which Panasonic can now do. Graduated ND is interesting, but you can do the same in Lightroom/photoshop; would prefer slight increase in dynamic range. @@larrychicco1062
it's replay of fuji xt4 to xt5 less fps more noise with more pixels. remains a good camera. but not leap forward. perhaps lockdown chip shortage over pandemic years is the blame. I own om1 and 300mm f4 and mc14. it's no match for details of an aged canon 400mm f2.8
Thanks for the update Jimmy. I think I will be sitting this one out even though I wiould love these upgrades on my OM1. I've only had it for about a year or so. Still have my EM1-MkII as a very capable backup too!
Glad you enjoyed the camera! :)
Thanks Jimmy.
There are so many doomsayers today on OMDS it makes me think we in the First World have lost our minds.
This camera has AMAZING features. I dont even leverage half the features on my OM-1. I'm impressed with what OMDS is trying to do with limited resources. They are going up against deep pockets at Canon and Sony. I think they are on the right track.
All the bellyaching today makes me think we have LOTS of photographers who think the latest tech will make them better photographers and that not getting the very best upgrade at minimal cost will mean they are worse photographers.
I have to admit I'm a bit disappointed that instead of giving us a 2.0 update to the firmware for the OM-1, they're releasing an incrementally updated OM-1 Mark 2. I'll keep hoping they'll release a firmware update to the original. It would be a nice gesture by the new company to users who have supported them through their transition. We've been unsure how things would pan out, but optimism remains.
How do you get a buffer upgrade with firmware?
@@FierceSleepingDog Many of the features included in the Mark 2 could be added as a firmware update to the OM-1 M1. The added flash memory required for the buffer is not included in that. I would think it obvious I wasn't speaking of hardware changes.
@@jonathanscherer8567 yeah obviously the influencers that got first look are going to be positive towards this launch. Hopefully when the big publications get to this full review they will call this out. Maybe with pressure OM Systems will do right by the people that paid their bills for the last two years.
Thanks Jimmy…well done and this looks like a great adventure focused camera as are most OM cameras. Some nice improvements or refinements to the OM1 that as you said, addressed some areas folks wanted improved. I see a lot of people complaining that it isn’t a revolutionary upgrade (like the OM1 was perhaps), but to me other than a bigger sensor that some folks feel they need it already had features over and above most other camera brands. Few match the features like its IBIS (which is likely the best there is) and computational features and its precision (or build)…would definitely appeal to an engineer who is also an outdoor photographer. Video features likely exceed most everyone’s common needs (you show that in your usual videos even with lower end OM cameras) but certainly not its main strength. My main concern is it is still a big MFT camera…my ongoing complaint 😊. Lots of brands with larger sensors offer similar size and weight (even most lenses), with great video though perhaps not as photo centric, which I think tends to be a smaller market these days. One question…could most of these improvements been made with a firmware update (perhaps even one you pay for)?
Very helpful first look. I like it!
Great video Jimmy. Really enjoyed it
Thanks mate, glad to see you tuned in.
Always mate. 1st videos I watch on any new stuff👍
Thank you for your review!
Love the graduated filter ! For my as a mk3 owner I much prefer the design and layout to either OM1
Thanks for the review.
So sad to hear this. The features I’m interested in could easily have been implemented in a firmware update of my existing OM-1 camera. Feels like we’re beginning to see the beginning of the end of OM-System’s camera adventure …
Yep.. Acting like like a inventory and technology liquidator company hired by Olympus!
The sky is falling...got it.
First World Tech whimpering all day.
Did you all hear that OMDS now works for free? You get upgrades to new features for free. OMDS will foot the bill.
@@FierceSleepingDogyeah, it's called the tech industry. A9 on its 6 free major firmware update. Canon R6 has had 8. Even the old as dirt Fuji XT2 has had a major feature update more recent than the OM1. Heck my smoke alarms get regular maintenance updates.
Welcome to what is expected in 2023 for flagship products.
@@FierceSleepingDog
Nope - just a company on a downward spiral, trying to squeeze all the juice out of their acquisition.
Nothing to get excited about. 😀
Excellent video
Plenty of ‘ambassadors’ showing the new camera and lens, how about a direct comparison with the original OM1 to tell us if they have actually fixed the AF issues (widely reported in low contrast and with birds in branches). For me that’s more ‘real world’!
You can't trust ambassadors. They are salesmen.
I recently used my E-M1 (original), bought in about 2014, and despite getting some great images, realised how much better my EM-1 III was by comparison. Not just raw image quality (a few more megapixels and newer processor), but also things like face recognition and snappy autofocus.
But so far, I have NOT been tempted into the OM-SYSTEM world of the "new" OM-1 and now OM-1 mk 2 - strangely, I still have the original camera that brought me into the world of photography, my 1976-vintage black Olympus OM-1 and four original, contemporary Olympus ("Zuiko") primes. For now, at least, one "OM-1" in my household is enough. Long live the E-M1 III (and it's grand-pappy E-M1). :-)
Thanks for the video... Can you tell if the Live ND and High Res mode are still limited to 60 seconds ?!
Will OM System give us OM1 users any new features (e.g. human recognition) via a future firmware update??
I think om system is squeezing our wallet with their new machine, new firmware may be just for adapting new lenses, that's all I guess. We are abandoned as a OM1 user.😂
@@arthurq2834 ah yes, in fact I have since seen a reply from OM System to somebody confirming there is in fact no firmware update planned for the OM1.
They have responded to my comment that improved human recognition update is not planned for mark 1 for now.
Another great convincing video. Any news on releasing dates for the updated version of the Olympus lenses such as 40-150mm mark ii and the pro prime lenses before I jump in and purchase the mark i versions? What do you think?
Despite all the critics I really like the upgrade. The GND is an amazing feature to have. Thanks for this review 👍
Just bought the 12-100 f4 lens & attached it to my trusty EM1 mark 1 which has served me well for almost 10 years with 12-40 F2.8 but the Nd filter & buffer means I will upgrade in next few months to new OM 1 mark 2
Very nice review Jimmy and thanks for all your efforts. Yes, OMDS addressed things that I wished for OM-1, better video AF, Human detection as part of subject detection and more buffer. I do expect buffer size increase will have to be with the new body but thought the AF features would be updated via FM for OM-1. Disappointed but I understand it is business decision. The Live ND Grad is very impressive indeed but still not enough reason for me to upgrade right away. Cheers.
always like to hear you,i have now om1
Very informative and to the point Chris. I personally like the improvements. If I can sell 1 of my OM-1 cameras, I will buy the newer version. I think the improvemts you talked about are worth the upgrade. Although not monumental, they are interesting enough to improve certain photography that I enjoy. Hopefully; OM Systems will be builkding new camera models for a long time. Thanks again. 👍
Great video Jimmy!
With unlimited money or if your job depended on using the latest and greatest MFT camera, this is an awesome camera for photos.
I'll just stick with looking for bargains of a used E-M1 Mark ii.
Is there a upgrade for the in-camera HDR?
excellent presentation. ! 😜
"It looks and feels like the original OM1" - that's because it is the original OM1 with some added rubber and a firmware upgrade.
I'm heavily invested in OM Systems with the OM1 and the 150-400mm f4.5 and a bunch of other older bodies and lenses.
I'm so glad I'm not an OM System ambassador because this is what I would want to say....
I see these new announcements as good and not so good.
The good is that OM System is still in business.
The not so good is they're not making anything new. The mark II is only a rebadged OM1 with a firmware update and some rubberized buttons. The wide zoom lens announcement is a rebadged lens and the long zoom is a rebadged Sigma lens.
The only thing I need improved on my OM1 is better video features including sticky C-AF. If this has been improved then great! However I shoot birds in flight almost every day and I certainly never wished for a deeper buffer. Like the G9II, it'll take longer for the buffer to clear and I'll miss the next round of action. Other gimmicks like live nd grad filter is a bit like keystone correction - it's better done in post.
Jimmy. would like the larger buffer and improved AF but I just shot The Rolex 24 at Daytona Beach. Fl and got fantastic results. So, I'll probably wait at least a year. Thanks for your presentations. Cheers, Mike
I read the opinions of too many naysayers and got a bit cynical about the mkII, but not gonna lie, that live grad ND is impressive. But since my OM-1 is just over six months old, I might wait and see what the mkIII is like. 😄
ND grads, keystone correction etc is better done in post because you've got more control.
I am waiting for MkIV
My previous Sony RX100 mark 3 of €623,- had this with a software upgrade of €20,- back in 2015! That was 9 years ago.
Jimmy, thanks for the first impression! One question though: I don't quite get how the Live GND is better than HDR (that also Mark I can do). Both of them need a somewhat steady shooting position otherwise we have blur in the image. But for GND, I have to manually set the transition point whereas HDR just works it out automatically. Maybe worth a future video?
Does the live grad nd work in both raw and jpeg output like the regular live nd?
I have OMD EM1 mrk ii and I love it. But let's agree on one thing, if Olympus does not think outside the box in the near future, it will be the end(soon).
The technology has caught up and not much makes Olympus stand out. Of course for long telephoto there are very good lenses in terms of size, but how many of us need 1200mm for birding?!
And now OM-1 Mark II with some software updates, not to mention the price of the rebranded Sigma lens(150-600)!🤔
Anyway, good luck to Olympus and hope they make it🙏
As an owner, lover, and long-time user of the e-1 mark ii... I agree completely. I haven't been compelled to upgrade since the mark ii.
Maybe if I'm in a boat flowing downriver and see a bird flying backwards, those 1200mm will be critical! It's probably meant to equalize the playing field vs the other lenses that stop at 900mm and crop on high 61MP bodies, which might be what this lens is trying to achieve = have same cost as purchasing those.
For the most part the system still is far more compact than any other system. There’s no way I’m carrying a 1200mm full frame f anything lens!!
You westerners are so obsessed with specs that you don't really use lmaoo
If that camera was higher resolution, I'd buy it immediately. That's the only rub.
There seems to be a lot of discourse from people saying this sucks, and there are a lot of people saying this is enough. There aren’t enough people pointing out this really doesn’t look good for OMDS. There have always been concerns the camera division may not live long after the transfer and that continues to be a concern I have and this camera amplified that concern. They haven’t fleshed out the non-flagship lineup yet, which I think they need to refresh. I’ll stick with Panasonic for MFT, I hope OMDS finds success but it’s definitely worrying at this point.
Pretty spot-on analysis, no hate, no hiding behind the display gas-lighting crap.
Personally, in MFT land, I’m completely Olympus / OMDS (besides the Panasonic 9mm), and I think I would rather leave the format than go Panasonic. OMDS had many years to develop something promising, but to this day it’s still mostly the same stuff they got from the acquisition. I love the format and the compromises made, I bought many OMDS lenses in the recent years (while always keeping in mind the future worst case scenario), and I wish OMDS all the best. But I wouldn’t recommend this format to newcomers right now. There are much better alternatives for most situations.
@@OfficialSushiSystemAmbassador I think once my Panasonic stuff gives I'm going to jump fully to Nikon for all things digital. I use my Panasonic stuff for video, and the Nikon for photography. I think you more or less summed it up right. I wouldn't advise buying into MFT unless you're already in it. The OM-1ii really isn't for a lot of people except the most loyal of Olympus customers who happen to be knee deep in the system.
I just don't trust the longevity of MFT from OMDS at this point, and like I said the OM-1ii really is a pretty subpar upgrade all things considered. It feels more like an attempt to stay in the spotlight from a company that doesn't know what it wants to do.
At this point I would really say OM needs to explore FF sensor design, because at least Panasonic has that with the L-mount and is doing exceptionally well with that. I wish OM users the best, and I hope OMDS actually innovates in the space if they intend to stick around.
I am baffled how you can see bad news in this amazing update to a camera that created a major surge in people moving to MFT and OM System. What do you want? Panasonic doesn't care enough about their MFT line to even give the G9II it's own body.
@@gregfeeler6910 I don’t think you understand how Japanese division transfers work and how much this update to the OM-1 says about OMDS.
@@GrainOnTheGoWell, since you apparently do, perhaps you could be more specific about what you think you are seeing here?
Has the maximum allowed shutter speed increased with the updated live ND function? I think it was 1/30s with the previous camera...
Thanks Jimmy. I have a question: On the OM-1 you can configure a button to go to RAW; however there is no toggle function -- it just puts you into RAW with no way get back. Note that the E-M1 MkIII DOES implement this function as a toggle. I submitted this to OMDS quite while ago. Although you stated "RAW does not function" do you have any idea if this issue is/will be addressed in the OM1-II?
Nice to see "Charly" in a couple of your shots.
RAW does work, just that there's no support from my software. All the shots you saw in this video has RAW files too, but I am waiting for my software to be updated to include support on them. Regarding the toggle, I am not sure, as I never do that, I just put RAW in one card and JPG backup on the other, so I have both. I can check with OM to see what they say.
This all sounds like minor improvements that could have been implemented on the OM-1 body via a firmware update. And the new 150-600 lens is just huge and expensive... 🤷♂️
How do you upgrade buffer size with a firmware update? Or the card reader with a firmware update?
@@FierceSleepingDog ok, but how much faster do you need your camera to be? The OM-1 was/is already fast enough. Apart from that, everything else was possible with a free firmware update to the OM-1. Honestly, it doesn't justify the release of a new body or an upgrade, in my opinion.
We want a new sensor with more megapixels not a software tool. And also the cool features are not compatible with eachoter, like you can’t combine high res with nd or live comp. :(
The obvious comparison will be between the OM-1 II and G9 II, after both have been out for a few months, so with production firmware and RAW support for both. The emphasis need not be on seldom-used features for most users (like high frame rates/fast file transfer/large buffers--who wants to curate 100s of images of the same subject/scene?!) or video features, as both of these pro cameras are primarily aimed at stills. I want to see what matters--can either system produce noticeably better prints. That's all that really matters to photographers.
Re weatherproofing, IP53 just means that it's "protected from water spray less than 60 degrees from vertical" which is OK, but more (at least IP54) would be better. Re temps, I often shoot when it's colder than -10°C with my G9 (but as you say--batteries hate that, so I keep spares close to my body) and have never had a problem.
As someone who occasionally shoots wildlife, I'd love to see how the AF performs during heavy snow--will it recognize various animals or focus on the snowflakes? As a long-time Lumix user (especially G9, but I also have an Oly TG-5), I wish Lumix would implement a live GND feature. That's very slick (although I wish it went a few more stops--your example was not exactly an HDR situation). The OM-1 II has some other nice features as well (like a better EVF), but it's just too small to feel comfortable/secure in my average-sized hands. Oly/OM (and Sony, for that matter) bodies are just too small for me! Add to that their less-than-ideal ergo (Lumix is so much better in that regard--both physical controls and menus), and the shooting experience is just not as good. What it comes down to is that, using a camera that feels natural and fun to use (obviously personal preference) will likely result in better images than one that has better specs that will only apply in limited situations.
Unfortunately OM system hasn’t released anything that would make me want to upgrade my EM1 mk2. I think this spells the end of Olympus/OM system. It’s clear they are not investing in R and D.
well from EM1 mark II its a HUGE step forward or you are blind :)
@@paja13 I have the most recent Fuji X-T5, a Sony A7Riii and the EM1 mark ii and the EM10 mark ii. I even have plenty of old EM5 mark 1 files sitting on my hard drive. The reality is despite all the hype about the latest whatever, there is very little difference in image quality between them save for a stop lower noise in the latest models. Not surprising given a 4K screen displays only 8mp. Try it yourself and shoot an old camera and new under the same conditions with the same lens and view at normal screen size. OM has improved AF tracking finally, but it’s not something I need as they were too late to the party.
I feel you. After like what? 3 major releases were straight up branding exercises?
OM is a shell.
Well my camera and lenses are still fine.
But that’s about it, now it’s just shooting old gear until enough of the wheels come off to go to a competitor.
@@geofff6671 I have a Em1 Mk II and an OM-1. The ISO performance on the OM-1 is in another league. Higher flash sync speeds as well are nice. AF tracking though is still useless on the OM-1 compared to a R5, Z9, Z8, or A1. C-AF with bird A.I though is a big step up from earlier m/43 cameras. Electronic shutter is better as well - you can actually pan the OM-1 where the Em1 can only pan accurately using mechanical shutter.
I do find EM1 Mk2 is better finding focus on a black object in low light. My main reason for upgrade was 400k shutter activations on the mk ii in 30 months.
It is my exactly my current setup. I added an LX100-II this autumn and like it a lot, but surely not a replacement. Panasonics menu's are so much easier to navigate but may be the OM1 is better here too. But when I look at IQ I see very very little improvement over my more than 7 yr old EM1.2. If anything I would buy a G9-2, but the very low DR with ES (photonstophotos) is stopping me mostly. Also it seems that even in RAW above ISO3200 there is nosiereduction baked in. I surely do not like that either. But otohit is the only sensor that does get you much better dynamic range especially in very low ISO.
Someone should tell OM there is also OM5. Maybe some firmware update with menu from OM1 at least...
Right time upgrading to original OM1!
Great Olymp... OM SYSTEM ad
You didn´t mention anything if the new camera has overcome the superflaw of earlier modells regarding to AF: the inabillity to program to buttons with different AF modes. Example af-c with one af-point on the top button and af-c wtith bird recognition and full coverage of the sensor and override over the usual top button. Other example used by wildlife shoters for around 10 years or more is the common double back button focus with different AF-modes on the two back buttons choosed.
wow, The live GND its awesome, but I have to ask, this feature can be used in the livecomposite mode?
Mines on order and should be here next week.
Enjoy it! You will like it
Thx Jimmy. Why not a firmware upgrade for OM-1 Mark I? Will we get firmware upgrades for OM-1 Mark I in future?
I think this is the firmware upgrade for the OM1!
Nice video, but you may want to look into how you process your audio. It seems to be extremely compressed.
Thanks for the review, Red. I do like the new features, but will need to hear about the downsides. I have the M1 III.
I waited for the mark III, to get into mirrorless (from Nikon). Then, what, about a year later the OM-1 came out.
I was an OM-1 SLR user for decades, before switching to Nikon.
I was hoping for a higher res VF and LCD and refresh rates, but certainly not critical. I was hoping for a new sensor, so a major overhaul. But, not critical. I get good resolution and color from my M1 III with its sensor.
Overall, I will begin research on the pros and cons and user remarks, other than representatives and gurus, and evaluate them.
I see all the complaining that this upgrade is not enough....I'm curious what people were expecting? Four Thirds is painted into a corner from a sensor perspective. Sony produced the IMX472 12 bit 20 mpix Stacked CMOS sensor in 2021...and that is about as advanced a sensor as Panasonic and OM Systems are going to get for their MFT bodies. Most upgrades from now on will be at the periphery and be based on advances in processing power and software. Which means little incentive to upgrade older bodies with new software if it might impact sales of new bodies. That's just the way it's going to be.
I think these are all welcome updates. The thing is they promised the human detection mode as a firmware update for the original OM1. It's too soon too judge but if they don't deliver, this would be disappointing. If they do, will anyone buy the Mark II as long as the Mark I is available for less money? A bit of a conundrum. This issue aside, if the human autofocus performs as well as I hope this looks pretty much like my dream camera, at least once the price has come down. Too bad it doesn't have the Olympus badge on it anymore...
Edit: I find it a bit weird that all the early videos show the AF with a lot of birds - I would love to see some pictures of the human AI at work in some sports action!
I’m probably missing something, but why get something like this over APS-C? Was surprised to see the price being as high as it is.
Hey Jimmy, i have 2 questions my friend; what jacket are you wearing and what camera did you film yourself with? Thanks
Timberland for the jacket
@@Kenji-ds9rf I saw the logo but which model? 🤣
I think he used the G9 II for filming this.
How well does live ND work with off camera flash shooting wide open portraits?
I am not sure if it works at all, but I haven't tried it. I shall have a go to see if it allows me first.
Sounds like an interesting upgrade but I think I will pass on that one and enjoy my OM1 for a few more years. By the way what are the the brand and model of your orange L plate ?
Ollie from company named Three Legged Thing
I wasn't sold on upgrading till the moment you described the new GND mode and I literally sighed "F***."
i use physical GNDs from Hoya and Tiffen on my Nikon F lenses primarily.
Does the gnd work in video ?
What is the performance, particularly the autofocus/compatibility, of OM-1 or mark II when working with the ZD lens like 35-100/2, 14-35/2 and 25/1.4? Thanks.
Shooting mainly wildlife I found the OM-1 better than EM-1 Mark ii only in terms of computational features, such as hand held high-res and in-camera focus stacking. But the subject detect AF only worked will when you didn't need it (eg: eagles and swans in flight, big slow birds) and was no better than a mid-size focus target on the EM-1 Mark ii. I never fill the buffer on the OM-1, and rarely hit in in the EM-1 Mark ii. Based on your review, OM-1 Mark ii offers some features you don't really need for portrait photographers, and some features you absolutely don't need for wildlife. It seems more a tweak in specs than a real improvement. I'm happy I invested in the OM-1, but my old EM-1 Mark ii cameras will make a solid backup into 2024 and beyond.
Indeed, I've seen a few bird photographers channel talking about OM-1 over the past few months and all mentioned the small buffer. It's true it's not for everyone but for those who needs it, it's critical and a must almost. As for me, I like it for fact that I can now tweak the AF for tracking human and select a person in the frame to track instead of letting the computer decide in all previous cameras. And the is not just for stills but also for video, a plus for me again. But I never discount the OM-1 or all previous cameras, I still have my E-M1 II, III and X, all still being used for various reasons.
I tested buffer clearing in the OM-1, in order to find out if it makes sense to spend the premium on V90 cards, or would I be fine with V60. Tested Sandisk and Kingston V90s and Sandisk and Lexar V60s. And - surprise! - the buffer cleared in exactly 15 seconds with all 4.
64GB Sony Tough 300/299MBs clear in 8s, or still shoot at 10-12 fps when full (with ISO max1600 and Low Iso processing set to Drive priority)
@@vicmassart6933 thanks for the info. I know Sony cards are great, but I can get a 512GB Lexar V60 for the same $ as a 128GB Sony V90. And seeing as I very rarely hit the buffer, but I do easily fill up 128GB in one shooting session, I appreciate the increased storage more than the faster writing.
But I really do appreciate the info. If I ever find myself in a situation where I need more clearing speed in the future, at least I know there's an option (albeit an expensive one).
I think the OM1 mark II is more of a good thing. I like the upgrades. GND I didn’t see comming. But faster AF, bigger buffer, moving the menu button to the right side. Moving human detection into the AI menu and add it to the SCP. Is all good stuff. But I am not selling both og my OM1’s to get two mark II’s. But maybe one of them. I will let the distortion field vaporize first.
I am a solid owner and user of MFT cameras. I currently have the original Olympus EM5 and OM5. The processing power enhancements may well appeal to wildlife and action-shooters. The GND ND is really cool and I would love this to be in the OM5 (perhaps OM5 MkII?) . The other computational and video upgrades are excellent enancements. BUT yes for me a big but. to not bite the bullet and give us a larger sensor is in my humble opinion a lost opportunity here. I don't think this iteration persuades enough people to choose the OM1 MKII over the Panasonic G9MKII . If I was looking at getting one of those bigger more professional grade MFT cameras, I would likely go G9MKII. My personal opinion.
Why would a larger sensor sway you to the OM1 Mark II over the G9 II? It's not like the G9 II has a larger sensor.
G9 MKII has a new next generation 25.2MP Sensor. The OM1 MKII is using the same old 20MP sensor that is 8 years old.@@raksh9
I have the OM-1. Looking for another camera and I will probably buy the Panny G9MKII
@@Forthejoyofphotography The OM1 MkII does not use an 8 year old sensor. When the Om1 was launched, a couple of years back, it was given a completely new sensor. Although still only 20MP, it is a stacked BSI sensor and seems to be regarded by users as a very significant upgrade🤔
Based on Olympus / OM System's previous upgrade history, I would expect the features, such as GND ND and autofocus improvements to appear on the OM5 MkIII. The OM5 MkII's features will be based on the OM1, so it should get the new sensor, TruePic X engine and menu system.
If they added astro-tracking feature, I’d upgrade my OM-1. The grad ND is very cool though.
Honestly, who wants 60+ continuous photos? Who loves scrumming through it?
My idea too, will OM Systems now forget about upgrading the firmware of the Mark1? It needs the same improvements as the Mark2
I'm still on the E-M1III - couldn't find a reason to buy the OM1. The computational graduated ND is awesome. But still not a good enough reason to upgrade from the E-M1III. At least not at the retail price right now. Maybe in two or three years on the used market.
You will get an ON1 for £1000 soon or wait about 18 month and the om12 will be half price
Hey Red, would you suggest the OM1 MK2 or the Panasonic G9ii ? I’m currently trying to decided what to change to from my OM5
I would wait for the OM-1 mark III for what ought to be truely phenomenal AI features incorporated within computational photography.
Hey @Red35! Question: In your convlusion (@15:53), You had this gadget attached to your camera that appeared to be a monitor of some sort. What is it and will it work om the EM1 MK II? I ccould see that as a real benefit to me if it is what I think it is! Thank you for what you do!
Hi Scott, it's the Atomos Ninja V monitor/recorder. I use it a lot as an monitor.
Thanks! Ia m getting up there in years so it gets difficult for those low shots!The OM-1 MK II looks pretty amazing ! @@Red35Photography
I’m hoping for a matchup between EM1 MK2 vs OM1 MK2 and debate included for costs of ownership. Many still have & use EM1 MK2 effectively. If not a “pro”, do we really need to upgrade?
Hi Jimmy. Thanks for this instructive video, though I fear that comparing buffer clearing times might not be that easy.
In his "first impression" blog (using Sony Tough 300/299MB/s cards) Petr Bambusek reports :
quote "
shooting speed SH2, number of RAW photos taken until the buffer is full, total shooting time until the buffer is full / time needed to empty a fully filled buffer
Sony 32GB - 50 fps, 239 photos, 5.12s / 31s
Sony 32GB - 25 fps, 282 photos, 11,5s / 31s
Sony 32GB - 16.7 fps, 344 photos, 20.8s / 31s
Sony 32GB - 12.5 fps, 444 photos, 36,5s / 31s
" unquote
Time needed to empty his fully filled buffers is the same in all his senarios, so the differences only show the photos written to the card while buffer was filling
What about the G9 mkII ? does it also write to the cards while buffering ? at which rate ?
with a theoretical 20Mb raw size, we would have
239/(5,1+31) = 132.4
282/(11.5+31) = 132.70
344/(20.8+31) = 132.82
444/(36.5+31) = 131.55
Which seems to be coherent.
what do you think ?
Looking forward to watch your next videos
Thanks for another excellent intro video. The haters are going to go off on the camera because it doesn't have 40mp and cost $1,000, but I think it has some great enhancements over the original OM-1 for many photographers.
They are concerned as it is basically the same hardware with a larger buffer (and even it may have been there but disabled or unsupported). Same body, same sensor, same processor… they really should have waited for something substantial or it looks like they just had to release this one just to remove the Olympus name due to their license expiring.
@@dcd Why should they wait? Better is better - what's the problem? The human tracking alone is going to be very important for video shooters. I would use the GND feature frequently.
We are in the age of incremental upgrades to digital cameras and no one is doing what those damming the Mk II expect OM System to do. You speak of "they" being disappointed but in your reply you cast baseless dispersions that the new larger buffer might have been there all along. Why do you and "they" take a default negative view? I see a lot of people who think they are camera engineers who really don't understand what is and isn't reasonable to expect, especially with respect to the limits of firmware upgrades.
Also, it's time for the OLYMPUS name to go. OM Digital Solutions is spending a lot of money building the OM System brand - not Olympus. I pre-ordered my first OM-1 in part because it still had the OLYMPUS name, but I'm also proud of the OM System name on my OM-5.
@@gregfeeler6910 because almost none these ' upgrades' are hardware based requiring the purchase of a new camera. It has literally the same sensor, processor, etc. If they needed to remove the Olympus badge, they should have just released a series of new EM1 colors with the firmware update going out to all. I was also somewhat surprised by the price tag. Maybe they are targeting only a small number of sales and will be happy with what they get but I don't think this one is going to be successful for them at that price point. It is not really better, it only has an update firmware. Sure, the buffer is larger but again, that may have already been there just not opened up due to firmware performance issues or something. It really seems they released the same camera as a MkII model.
I have an em1mk2 and I'm still waiting for a reason to upgrade that seems really worth it..
I'm sticking with my EM1 mk2.
When I upgrade, it will probably be to the Panasonic G9 ii. It's reported as working better with all of my Olympus lenses, whereas the OM1 still doesn't deliver its full potential above just a few, may be 8 selected expensive Pro lenses.
As someone considering the same, do you happen to have a link to that report?
I am going to wait before jumping to the OM-1 MK II. I am sure its all great. Just a bit annoyed that some of this could have been a firmware upgrade to the original OM-1. Had to wait to get the OM-1 after ordering it, now in two years they basically want us to pony up again for a new body. Might look at G9 II because it might just be the best true hybrid micro four thirds camera.
Do you think it is suitable for sports photography?
I hope many people upgrade to the OM-1 Mark II because I will be looking for a nice original OM-1 as an upgrade to my E-M1 II 😊
Read a bunch of comments here, makes me wonder what features are people looking for in an ideal flagship OM camera.
Hi Jimmy,
ran a quick write speed test on my brand new OM-1 mark II.
Shot 1 burst, 573 images / 9.41GB on disk, fully written to card in 35 full secs (as per OM Workspace time codes)
250 images wear time codes spread over 5 full secs then, once buffer hits ceiling, speed drops to 11fps (323 images written in 29 full secs)
settings : RAWS to 1* 64GB Sony Tough SDXC II card (300_299Mb/s) card only
1/640s - F2.8 - ISO 1000
Menu 1.3 Low ISO Processing set to Drive Priority AND
Menu 1.8 Image stabilizer set to Fps Priority
should the one and/or the other be set to Detail Priority, sustains 50fps for 5 secs but drops to 6fps once buffer gets filled.
enjoy your outings
Surely the human AF is Firmware based and could be applied to the OM-1..... For me I will be moving as the cost of changing has confirmed it is time for a change of system.
Dear RED35, do you also use cameras other than OM-1 for yout professional works? Thank you.
Yes, currently Nikon Zf and G9 for photos. GH6 for videos
I’ll keep my OM5 and EM5 Mark 3 until they die but they clearly are only interested in the wildlife community and have no interest in other forms of photography. We have all but taken a OMS executive by the shoulders and shook him and begged him for a new Pen F and we get this. It’s been a fun 19 year ride but it’s time to start slowly fazing them out to Fuji over the next several years.
I wondered when the first 'they're only interested in wildlife!' cries would happen after the GND and human detection were announced.
@@vermis8344 that’s a throw in a small bone.
What I really really want is an Pen-F ii.
This is what most mft shooters have asked like 5years and you get these average flagship copies in a row😂
@@veikop Sorry, you misunderstand my point. This is indeed a necessary upgrade for the flagship camera and wholly welcomed. What I am saying is that the company should also cater for it's loyal users of other photography genre too. For street, we do not require such incredible and still industry leading technology. We need simpler cameras that handle well, small and light, just like the digital Pen-F, just upgraded with the latest sensor and features that we desire. The key features that made the Pen-F so loved are the aesthetics, handling, EVF on top left of camera (incredibly useful for keeping the left eye open to be aware of changes to the scene) and the creative dial.
The om-1 mark ii seems to be a good improvement. I'm very sad, that Om-System didn't finish their homework on the om-1 mark 1 regarding optimizing the autofocus. I still hope they will. For me, this is a necessity before further invests.
0:56 Any reason why you blacktaped over the OM-1lettering, Jimmy?
I filmed this before the embargo and I couldn't show the camera in public, I later removed it so you can see it's the new Mark II.
Don't get me wrong; I am a fan of Olympus/OM cameras. But these upgrades are mostly software, if there is any hardware upgrades at all. Maybe it has more ram. Most of these upgrades could have been accomplished with firmware upgrades. So people who were expecting feature upgrades for their MarkI via firmware are going to be disappointed. You'll have to break out a few more grand if you want that.
OMDS works for free now. I heard that is the new business model.
I would be willing to pay for firmware upgrades that offered new features. That's different from incrementally improving the camera every 2 years and charging a couple of grand. They don't have to work for free. But this business model makes me less likely to continue investing in their products. For one thing, every time they do this their previous product (which was the greatest camera ever made) loses value. Now there's a new greatest camera, which by the way will be worth less in two years time when they bring out the next greatest camera. I believe manufacturers hold back features for this reason. The greatest features that will come out with the MarkIII in two years time, could have been put in the Mark II, but that wouldn't fit the business model. All they did hardware wise with this camera is put in a bit more ram. The rest is just firmware. And ram is cheap. @@FierceSleepingDog
How long are we going to beat this dead dog?
What dead dog?
OM-1 Mark WOW ....wow
(GND filters and etc., are brutal)
Hey it isn’t april first yet! 😮
Why oh why didn't they have a cover over the sensor when exposing the sensor during lens change???
Because it doesn't need it. I've used many Olympus/OM cameras over the past six years, not once I have dusty sensor. I am a super heavy user and all my cameras are beaters after a year or so. I change lenses dozens of times a day in all kinds of condition, rain, windy, dusty you name it. All because of OM's ultrasonic wave sensor cleaning everytime it powers up and down. On the other hand, I have many dust problems with my full frame cameras.