Photography has come a long way in recent years, with advancements in technology continuously pushing the boundaries of what is possible. One company that has consistently been at the forefront of this technological evolution is Olympus. Known for their high-quality cameras and lenses, Olympus has once again raised the bar with their latest release – the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III.
This highly anticipated camera has been making waves in the photography community ever since its announcement, promising to deliver exceptional image quality, improved performance, and innovative features. As an avid photographer, I was eager to get my hands on the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III and put it to the test. In this review, I will share my thoughts and experiences using this camera, covering everything from design and build quality to image performance and user experience.
Overview of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III Camera
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is the successor to the popular OM-D E-M1 Mark II, which was released back in 2016. This new model boasts several improvements and updates, making it a strong contender in the mirrorless camera market. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key features and specifications of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III.
Sensor and Megapixels
One of the most significant changes from its predecessor is the upgraded sensor. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III boasts a 20.4-megapixel Live MOS sensor, an increase from the 20.2-megapixel sensor in the previous model. While this may not seem like a significant jump in megapixels, the difference is noticeable in terms of overall image quality, particularly when it comes to low light performance.
Image Stabilization
One of the standout features of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is its impressive in-body image stabilization (IBIS). The camera utilizes a 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization system, which provides up to 7.5 stops of compensation when used with compatible lenses. This makes it one of the best in-body image stabilization systems on the market and allows for incredibly steady handheld shots, even in low light conditions.
Autofocus
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III comes equipped with a 121-point all cross-type phase-detection autofocus (AF) system. This is a significant improvement from the 121-point contrast-based AF system in its predecessor. The new AF system is faster, more accurate, and performs exceptionally well in both single and continuous shooting modes.
Video Capabilities
In addition to its impressive still image capabilities, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III also offers 4K video recording at up to 30 frames per second. It also has a built-in microphone and headphone jack for audio monitoring, as well as HDMI output for external monitoring. While there are some limitations in terms of video frame rates and crop factors, the overall video quality is impressive, making this camera suitable for both photography and videography purposes.
Design and Build Quality
Upon first glance, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III looks very similar to its predecessor, with some minor improvements and tweaks. The camera has a rugged and durable design, with a magnesium alloy body that is dust, splash, and freeze-resistant. It feels solid and well-built in hand, without being overly heavy or bulky.
At the top of the camera, you will find the mode dial, along with customizable function buttons and controls for ISO, exposure compensation, and shutter speed. The back of the camera features a tilting 3-inch touchscreen LCD display, which can also be flipped out for selfies or vlogging purposes. There is also a high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) with a magnification of 0.74x, providing a clear and detailed view of your subject.
One of the notable improvements in the design of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is the inclusion of a new multi-selector joystick. This makes it easier to navigate through menus and select AF points, without having to constantly use the touchscreen or d-pad. Another welcome addition is the redesigned button layout, which allows for better ergonomics and improved handling of the camera.
Features and Specifications
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is packed with an impressive array of features and specifications, making it a versatile and capable camera suitable for a wide range of photography styles. In addition to the ones mentioned above, here are some other key features of this camera:
High-Resolution Mode
One of the standout features of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is its high-resolution mode, which allows you to capture images with a resolution of up to 80 megapixels. This is achieved by taking multiple shots and combining them into one large, high-resolution image. While this feature may not be useful for all types of photography, it can come in handy for landscape and architectural photography, where detail is crucial.
Live Composite Mode
Another innovative feature of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is its live composite mode, which combines multiple exposures in real-time to create stunning light painting effects. This is particularly useful for long exposure shots, as it allows you to see the image being created on the LCD screen, making it easier to adjust your settings and achieve the desired result.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III also comes equipped with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to easily transfer images to your smartphone or tablet for quick sharing on social media. You can also use your mobile device as a remote control for the camera, making it convenient for self-portraits or group shots.
Performance and Image Quality
When it comes to performance, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III does not disappoint. Its fast and accurate autofocus system, combined with the impressive image stabilization, makes it easy to capture sharp and well-focused images in a variety of shooting situations. I found the camera to perform exceptionally well in low light conditions, with minimal noise even at higher ISOs.
The image quality of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is superb, with excellent color reproduction and dynamic range. The colors are vibrant and true to life, and the images have plenty of detail and sharpness. The high-resolution mode also produces stunningly detailed images, making this camera an excellent choice for landscape and architectural photography.
User Experience
As someone who has been using Olympus cameras for many years, I found the user experience of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III to be familiar and intuitive. The menu system is well-organized and easy to navigate, and the customizable buttons and controls allow for a personalized shooting experience.
The touchscreen LCD display is responsive and can be used for quick adjustments, while the EVF provides a clear and detailed view of your subject. The camera also has a fast continuous shooting speed of up to 18 frames per second, which comes in handy for capturing fast-moving subjects.
One aspect that some users may find challenging is the learning curve associated with using a mirrorless camera if they are used to DSLRs. Mirrorless cameras work differently, and it may take some time to get accustomed to the electronic viewfinder and the lack of a mirror mechanism. However, once you get the hang of it, the benefits of using a mirrorless camera far outweigh any challenges.
Comparison with Previous Models
As with any new release, it is natural to compare the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III with its predecessor, the OM-D E-M1 Mark II. While there are some similarities, the upgrades and improvements in the new model make it a much more versatile and capable camera.
The addition of the new multi-selector joystick, improved button layout, and upgraded sensor contribute to an overall better user experience and image quality. The inclusion of features such as high-resolution mode and live composite mode also adds to the versatility of the camera, making it a strong choice for both professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Impressive image stabilization
- Fast and accurate autofocus system
- High-resolution mode for increased detail
- Live composite mode for creative long exposure shots
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- Rugged and durable design
- Improved button layout and ergonomics
- Great low light performance
- Versatile for both photography and videography
- Excellent image quality with vibrant colors and good dynamic range
Cons:
- Learning curve for those used to DSLRs
- Some limitations in video capabilities
- High-resolution mode not suitable for all types of photography
- Price point may be a barrier for some photographers
Conclusion
After thoroughly using and testing the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III, I can confidently say that it is a fantastic camera that lives up to its promises. With its impressive image stabilization, fast and accurate autofocus, and innovative features, this camera is a worthy successor to the popular OM-D E-M1 Mark II.
While the learning curve associated with using a mirrorless camera may be a challenge for some, the benefits of this technology are undeniable. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III offers exceptional image quality, improved performance, and a versatile shooting experience, making it a top choice for photographers looking to upgrade their gear. Whether you are a professional or an enthusiast, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is a camera that can take your photography to the next level.
