The E-M5 will be the first Micro Four Thirds camera with external battery grip! Ahm…ok, we have a battery grip for some m43 cameras from [shoplink 27770 ebay]Ownuser (Click here to see them on eBay[/shoplink]). But that doesn’t count 🙂
Here are some new camera specs:
1.44 million dot viewfinder. Same specs as the VF-2 but with new “tweaks” -> Olympus seems to love tweaking…sensor and EVF 🙂
Fastest AF of any mirrorless AND DSLR camera!
MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 or Jpeg motion recording
9fps without the super fast AF. 4.2 with super fast AF enabled.
5-axis image stabilisation
610 million dot 3 inch OLED screen tilted by max. 80° upwards or max. 50° downwards
HLD-6 external battery grip
MMF-3 Four Thirds mount adapter
FL-600R electronic flash
Comes in a silver or black body.
In Stock in April 2012 for 1099.00 Euro ($1200 Dollars in USA) or with 12-50mm kit lens for 1,299.00 Euro ($1450)
That’s 500 Dollar less than the Fuji X PRo 1 ($1699 at Amazon). $400 more than the GH2 ($800). Will it sell well at that price? Everything depends form the final REAL image and video quality.
326 Responses
First!
Nice specs!! 🙂
Well, specs are goodish, but where is the revolutionary VF promised by that Olly Exec? Built in EVF doesn’t cut it without something extra!
Not for me, I may look at it in 12 months when the next warmed up box of recycled parts squelches its way through the rumour mill.
Oh well, hopefully Panny realises where to stick an EVF!
I am on your side! Where is the “epoch making” viewfinder?
I think, new revolutionary hybrid Viefinder is for new reflex E-7
If Olympus managed to reduce EVF lag to something usable this would be the extra point.
Nobody ever spoke of a revolutionary VF. All they said was the new camera has an “empahsis on the VF”.
“Everything depends on the final REAL image and video quality.”
That’s what people keep saying, but if that really were all there is to it i’d have upgraded a long time ago.
same stupid PR as with the e-p3.
AF is only good in bright sunlight and when the objects don´t move.
i bet it´s the same with this camera!
only morons believe olympus….
Dunno about that, I have done some BIF shots with the EP2, 40-150 and the VF2… While not easy, it was my first attempt at any camera, and i got some reasonable keepers.
Same stupid responce. This is sounding like a very nice camera to me.
I need some GH3 specs!!!!
So the MMF-3 is a new adapter for 43??
It may just be a weather sealed version of the MMF-2.
My guess also!
And where is the problem in that?
That it has no inbuild PD-AF then…
Just my opinion, a bit too (much in fact) expensive for recycled technologies :/ I’ll wait for reviews though.
+1.
> a bit too (much in fact) expensive for recycled technologies
Build quality and weather sealing are also technologies, you know.
OK, I’m not trying to justify the Oly, but you sound like: why the $2500 Hi-Fi set costs so much more than the $100 boom box – while they are clearly made of literally the same, manufactured in China parts!? (Though better analogy would have been the ears-on test of two transistor amps I have made with friends many years ago: one cheaper but with load of “modern and cool” tech, while the other one expensive, traditionally made: huge, bulky and heavy. Guess which one had won: the one with better parts or the one with better build?)
> I’ll wait for reviews though.
I do not expect any surprises. G3 sensor would perform as expected – and Oly colors should be there too. AF speed claims, thanks to the lack of any standardized test, are likely to relate to some ideal lighting conditions and probably small apertures.
Though I still can’t figure out what so special there could be about an EVF. Very likely the lower display latency – it is pretty much the only what can be improved in EVF.
@Dummy00001
$100 boom boxes and $2,500 Hi-Fis are not made from the same parts. The speakers are completely different, as is the amplification. I challenge you to name respective models that support your statement.
A former boss of mine once told us: ‘With Mark Levinson amplifiers we managed to sell weight for a lot of money’
Nothing wrong if you want to buy weight and precise engineering and building.
If this doesn’t bias your audio reception you’ll the same experience at much lower price tag with the same essential being parts used.
Olympus provides additional careful engineering and build quality at a reasonable price point for this. It looks different, feels different and take photos as it should.
“FL-600R electronic flash”
I assume this menas it comes with an external flash – well, that is fine with ME! The specs sound good. The kit lens in the bundle is cheap. I just hope they worked on the menu system…
FL-600R — hopefully a bigger pro flash to accompany a built-in control flash??
Their current top flash model is the FL-50R.
It might be twice as good as the FL300R in either power &/or function.
Well I hope not. The FL50R is too much bulk on such small camera’s.
I hope they have reduced the size considerably but managed to keep the recycle rate of the FL50R.
Please delete.
It’s probably a lower-end flash to attach to the camera, like Nikon did with their V1/J1. They already have the hot shoe flashes covered with the FL-36R and FL-50R. The only real hole remaining in their dedicated flash system is a macro flash. The STF-22 has compatibility problems with some of the newer bodies.
Any words about 4/3 lens PDAF support?
Even without a new sensor, PDAF support would win me over. But with all the hype, I believe we would have heard this bombshell by now. So I hold little hope of the MMF-3 adapter or hypE-M5 tackling the PDAF/43 glass problem.
hypE-M[67] perhaps?
I don’t care about sensor, I am happy with 5MP sensor in my old E-1 and I am happy with 12MP sensor in my E-30. What I want is to use my 4/3 lens. Without this feature I don’t want new body.
That would be the point of the MMF-3 😉
I don’t believe an adapter could make difference for PDAF support. Maybe MMF-3 is only a weather sealed mmf1/2.
I think he wants improved AF with 43rd lenses, Thats what I want.
And the use of superior lenses with the better sensor
Ah-ha! Didn’t get that.
Yes totally agree the E1 is a fantastic camera and at base ISO it has ‘it’ ,really hope the new OMD can use the 43 glass, unless Oly comes up with some pro m43 glass like the 50-200 2.8..mmmmmmm or 12-54 2.8, 3.5 is way too slow
What do you need then? Just keep using the E1.
Id assume that since there has been NOTHING said about that I wouldnt expect anything either.
Still very interesting to me…can’t wait to see the new flash & grip…
So as expected the 1100 Euro price was body only.
Yep, $550 extra gives you WP and EVF over the E-P3.
Worth it? Not to a lot of folks it won’t be.
And faster focus. And tracking. And 9FPS. And extra resolution. And two stops better high ISO. And manual controls. And who knows what else?
Nobody yet. That’s who.
We don’t know about the AF yet. E-P3 is already fast to how much faster is needs to be answered. Tracking will have to be verified. FPS, higher resolution and ISO have been on competitors’ product for a while and should have been on E-P3.
I specifically passed over the E-P3 because of the weather sealing and EVF and bought an E-5 instead. While I’m still finishing paying off the E-5 now, I suspect in a year or so, I will probably buy the OM-D just for those two features.
There will be a M6 by then.
610 *million* dots in the 3″ OLED screen?
Admin, can you ask your sources if it does 24p for video? AVCHD 2.0 with 60p would be even better! 🙂
60p video? Hook me up bro!
ok!
If it has the same sensor as the G3 then it will not be able to support AVCHD 2.0.
Don´t know if they will include 24p.
What about the lenses, Admin? You said the next post was on new lenses. :p
I am getting tons of rumors now. I even posted the first K-01 images on http://www.mirrorlessrumors.com !!!
Uhg. That thing is ugly.
You said it!
Unfortunately, Pentax has really lost the direction I guess. Why would they make a camera exactly like the K-5 but looks much worse. And we still don’t know about the performance. I dont know how the lenses will be focussing. I hope they have PDAF on sensor.
Hmm it’s not a camera “exactly” like the K-5. And quite frankly, the sensor of the K-5 rocks and it’s still kind of like best in its class so not sure why try to change it.
Pentax invents the finder-hump-without-a-finder!
Olympus is right behind them.
LOL!!!
THE BIG question remains :
Will it AF fast with 4/3 lenses?
I have the feeling that it is! Why? E-M5! Looks like a Micro E-5 🙂
Well, just dreaming…
+1
cant wait for the review will it be fast or faster… and cant wait to test out with a 12-60 and 50-200 SWD lens
Hmmm… New adapter and battery grip. Sounds like good support for heavier lenses 🙂 (just hoping).
They are going in the right direction, but did they cross the finish line. If it has good tracking, I might get it.
I was hoping for this, now just praying the grip is as massive as the battery part.
Still exciting & good specs for the price.
Just a question, does it have a built in flash? hopefully… its better to have a built in than with the one on epl3/epm1 likely fl600r?
610 million dot 3 inch OLED screen.
Sure? 610 Million
Rather 610,000 I suppose 🙂
nobody is right. so admin is wrong. wait, what ?
Price is within my budget-range and fair for a magnesium and weather sealed body. But as you said admin it all depends on the overall image and video performance. So far it sounds good.
Admin: do you happen to know the size of the E-M5! I bought a m43 system because of the compact size in the first place. I just hope that I still can put it in my jacket’s pocket!
I think there have been rumours about that it will be rougly the same size as the E-P3. Doublecheck if you want cause Im not sure
Thanks! Gonna check that.
Dream on. The width was rumored to be 121mm or similar to EP3 but then you have to add on that high hump in the middle for the EVF for the height and may project out the back. So you can have a smaller GX1 with inbody flash and optional EVF or ED5 with EVF or just get the G3 instead and only the GX1 is pocketable with compact Xlens.
It’s the same as E-P3’s LCD.
4.2 fps with continuous tracking? Hm. Not superfast. But with fast single shot AF, perhaps a sequence of 9 fps bursts would be an ok substitute…
Ha Ha Ha Ha, I was right. Told you guys this is all marketing talk and the price is way off.
Come on NEX FF.
BTW, I don’t mean to antagonize you guys but from the very beginning we all know there is no way Olympus will have access to avant garde technology a la SONY. All the take about Fuji, SONY, GH3, G1X, Toshiba sensor and French 5mp EVF are just wishful thinking.
The parts are recycled m4/3 parts but Olympus usually put everything together a bit better than Panasonic. On average, this camera should be better than all m4/3 so far but GH3 will likely give it a run for the money.
As for the price, it is expensive for what you’d get but in line with past Olympus prices. (I am always surprised why people paid more for Olympus vs. Canon and Nikon). I said yesterday Olympus will not sell the body at the same price as E-P3’s and indeed, they didn’t. For all the things you get in addition to E-P3, it is not a bad deal but E-P3 is $300 overpriced.
I think this means 4.2 fps with auto focus between frames…
1299€ w/ 12-50mm lens… count me in.
€1000 + (insert lens here), count me in-terested.
Sounds not so bad… 🙂 Only the price could be about 200 Euros less 😉
Hmm, it will be intereseting too see the new FL600R flash, see what kind of product it is compared to the FL300R
Weatherproof for a start?
Yeah, FL-600R and MMF-3 specs can possibly be very interesting. After tons of false hopes, here’s one more: a small flash with high sync speed. Maybe that’s what “electronic flash” mean.
Admin, do you have any info whether the external battery grip has a shutter release button for vertical shooting?
And anything regarding weight and size and specs of the new flash?
I am working on it. Getting millions of rumros while I amw roking at -15 degrees. That iPhone is amazing. Wonder how long it last before it dies. Probably longer than me 🙂
Admin, you’re my hero 🙂
Take care for your health!
admin: We want more from you and we want it now!
🙂
That’s frackin’ cold! Take care, hope you have sufficient wool.
is better the new pentax! bigger sensor!
Wow the dedication! I wonder what your day job is if you must work outside at -15…? :-/
And what kind of glove do you have for iPhone and that weather…? 🙂
And no viewfinder.
So what is this pic http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/198/bpthumb.jpg/
Found it on 43rumors via google when searching for this new flash an grip… 🙂
expensive… i was hoping the price point will be 1000us (body only), 1100us (with kit 12-50), or 1500us package(with 12-60, HLD-6 external battery grip, and MMF-3 Four Thirds mount adapter)…
I take the package with 12-60 😀
9fps without the super fast AF. 4.2 with super fast AF enabled.
So, they think it can lock focus between frames at 4.2fps using CDAF and whatever this new 3d tracking tech is? Interesting. Yes, it’s a lower FPS, but if that leads to all shots in focus, I’m willing to give it up. Plus, if your earlier specs were correct, the buffer should allow for more shots using this slower speed. Interesting indeed. Have to see final results before I decide to dump my Nikon though (although this is getting me seriously curious).
I hope it’s not as FUGLY as the OM 77
http://camerapedia.wikia.com/wiki/Olympus_OM-707_/_OM-77
That is one ugly camera. If it was a little uglier it would of been better, as it would of cross the threshold of ugliness in going to campy exotic.
The price ist to high for a blind preorder. So I will wait for the first reviews with the real image quality of E-M5 an fuji x pro1 and hopefully Pana GH3;-)
The back-away from claims of “revolutionary” features actually is making this camera sound MORE interesting to me — more realistic, more practical. The battery grip is exactly the kind of accessory needed for real-world practicality. Any word on whether it has vertical controls?
Also, I’d be interested in more info on the FL-600R flash. One key feature that Olympus has and Panasonic doesn’t (and which I wish my GH2 had) is wireless TTL flash — so any expansion of the flash system is of interest.
One big pro-essential feature that still is missing from any Micro 4/3 camera: tethered shooting. Any rumor on whether Olympus has woken up and included that?
A competent TTL flash system (ala Nikon SB-800) would be something that would help sway me. I’m all for condensing down to one system now (currently Nikon and M43).
Try Sony’s ADI TTL. Much better than Nikon’s.
I have Nikon’s and it is good for what it needs to do. Since I am not switching to Sony (don’t like the feel of NEX cameras) I don’t see a reason to look at their’s. I know I will be staying in m43 for some time, and could switch to it full time if the gear reaches a good enough level.
I love tether shooting, when setup right it saves a lot of steps and time when shooting product shoots etc; besides being supper cool to play with. Till I actually started to use it, I did not know why it was so desirable.
If it works like the E-5 with the Olympus software tool kit allowing custom software, allowing other items (such as lighting, servo controlled turntable etc.) to be controlled by the same software also), it will be great!
just 4.2 with super fast AF enabled!?? oh no! as a consumer now all my hopes have to go on another corporation product, maybe I am a corporation product to, dreaming on specs…
4.2 with fast AF is pretty good, IMHO. A few years ago pro DSLR’s couldn’t manage that.
Looking forward to seeing the full video specs and samples. The earlier rumor about video capability surpassing GH2 was intriguing, although I have a hard time associating Oly with class-leading video.
Doesn’t the GX1 sensor lack some features found in the GH2 sensor that contribute to its outstanding video capabilities?
smells like another consumer toy obsolete a month after release
Admin, are there any lenses to be announced in addition to the E-M5?
Admin, so a tilt-screen like on my E-330? Like it. Better than swivel…
Fastest autofocus… where did I hear that before? Oh yes!:
http://www.dpreview.com/news/2007/10/16/olympuse3#press
The E-3 press release! It had the fastest* autofocus. The * meant when coupled with the 12-60mm, in good light, single shot AF (AFS), and according to their OWN tests.
So I’ll wait on the press release before I conclude anything about the AF speed. Not that the E3 was bad, not at all. But only as long as you did not set it to continuous AF.
Actually, that E3 was WAY faster than anything else olympus made.
It was a huge jump.
If they are promising a huge jump again from the already very fast EP3, that will be quite an accomplishment!
Oly also made this claim when it released the E-P3.
http://www.olympus-global.com/en/news/2011a/nr110630ep3e.html
And rightfully so.
I would say that about 50% of the comments so far are concerning PDAF and 4/3 compatibility.
But our loyal brave Admin is very tight lipped about this issue .
Does it mean we can expect a huge surprise ? What is the MMF 3 all about ? or we are into the end of Olympus for all 4/3 users ?
Admin give us direction PLEASE !
From past experience, if the Admin is tight lipped, he has no information about the subject. If he has no info, then there is no new feature or the feature is not or not much improved.
He already said no in the previous thread.
Put this techology in an E-5 body, and I will buy it. 🙂
For $100 extra I’l take the kit and use the 12-50mm for video or sell it…. The 12-50 is $500 standalone, but $100 extra on the E-M5? Sounds incorrect….
@jason – you’re comparing Euros and Dollars. It’s $250 more for the kit lens.
Thanks CTteg…I see now. So $1200 versus $1450…much better than buying the lens separately. I wish the 20 mm wasn’t so hard to shoot video with… I might have to get the kit just for video.
AMEN FOR THE VERTICAL GRIP
My prayers have been answered!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank God
Do you know if it will have a 2.5mm or 3.5mm microphone port?
Thanks
If it had a square format, you would not need a vertical grip.
I recently saw a photographer shooting a square format camera in the vertical position. We asked him why he was doing that, stated something about old habits.
I want Vertical grip for ergonomics and battery life. Ease for vertical photo taking is just a perk for me.
Plus a square sensor raises costs and all most all lens hoods would become unusable since most lens hoods are built to shade a rectangular view.
Olympus allows you to set the 6:6 ratio if you want square
a vertical grip helps also if the combo gets heavy because of a fast portrait or telelens. the example you mentioned is ofcourse hilarious 🙂
True, but if you wanted to end up with a vertical image, you’d need to crop it.
Admin did you hear any more info about the mentioned IBIS preview in EVF?
Maybe that’s the rumoured finder tweak?
I don’t think so, i understand tweaking is improving an existing function. The IBIS preview did only exist in the E-3/5 models afaik. A tweaked EVF would prob mean better performance in low light or/and bigger viewfinder. Lets hope all of this will be included.
All in all the E-M5 will be very competent camera and at least the best Oly so far. The GH2 may still be the best m43.
As a G3 owner will I benefit from upgrading? Weather sealing, IS, nice look and better ergonomy, even faster, a better EVF. I think G3 is a low cost version of an E-M5 at 50% of the price. The G3 is the m43 camera with most “bang for the buck”!
No upgrade for me unless the IQ turns out to be significantly better which I doubt. No Pentax either which leaves me with NEX-7 and Fuji ProX1 as remaining contenders – unless something emerges from the Pana side…..
Well, already the GX1 outperforms the GH2 at high ISO. I just checked the samples at the Imaging Resource. The GX1 test that somebody linked to earlier today came to the same conclusion. So the E-M5 could be the best 4/3 camera so far.
High ISO is not everything…. I took a more holistic view, summing up features and usability.
You’re right about that. However, there seems to be a sort of consensus that the GH2 has the best image quality among m4/3 cameras so far. At least that’s the impression I have got. But I see now that the GX1 is actually better. And I compared the GX1 at 3200 ISO to the E-P3 at 1600 ISO. The GX1 looks slightly cleaner. The E-P3 uses more sharpening but is marred by yellow blotches that are absent in the GX1 sample (at 1 stop higher iso!). The GH2 has yellow blotches at 3200 iso.
The gh2 still has the best dynamic range
Kylberg,
I’m considering a G3 (especially after this OMD same sensor news). Did you use the Panny 12MP sensor before owning the G3? If so, do you notice a difference in terms of noise at 800/1600? That would be the main reason for me upgrading. Also, any other thoughts (good or bad regarding the G3 would be very helpful). Thanks
If AF is fast for 4/3 lenses with the new adapter, does that mean my 12-35mm lens suddenly becomes useful as a pro lens? The in-ability of that lens to focus properly (ie front focus issues, problems locking focus) with a standard 4/3 body is a crying shame, as no other manufacturer has come up with such a beautiful, capable fast zoom lens… this problem disappears with focus on m4/3 with focus on the camera sensor.
But the new camera looks and sounds great at the moment. I’ll be putting my order in as soon as it comes out… more of you should go out and take photos, instead of sitting around reading camera reviews and measurements.
Well, my 14-35 works perfectly when used with the E-3 and E-5 (all FW updates installed), i.e. fast and reliable even wide open without FF or BF.
When used with CDAF on a mFT cam, the superfast SWD is counterproductive, i.e. focusing takes longer than with non-SWD FT lenses and is jumpy although the lens allows for nice pics of non-moving targets.
No upgrade needed ofcourse. Whatever it is, it’s just the m4/3 sensor. And you know it will never match the other APS-C compact cameras, especially with the price over $1K. It can prolly be the BEST camera…in the m4/3 class tho.
What you are saying is wrong, sensor size is not the problem, it is sensor technology and pana sensors. The nex7 sensor with 43 format would have 16 Mpix, so…m43 camera could have nex7 performances. And by staying at 12 Mpix which for me is really enough, m43 sensors could be also better, but Mpix race…
An m43 camera with the NEX-7 sensor would have had ca 14.7 Mpx, not 16 Mpx, I believe. The pixel density of the NEX-7 sensor is 6000/23,5 = ca 255.3 pixels pr mm (using the horisontal numbers). The size of the m43 sensor is 17.3×13 mm2, which gives (6000/23.5)^2*17.3*13 = 14.66 Mpx. Or did I overlook something?
ok I was a little approximative :D, 14.7 Mpix is enough for me !
Sensor size is not about mpix man..its about the physical size of the sensor inside the camera which will be the main factor of wider and better d.range. In other words, better IQ. show me some fair comparison that m43 can be the same quality with let say nex 5 or 7. Let alone “better”.
its also about the physical size of the sensor inside the camera which will be the main factor of wider and better d.range. In other words, better IQ. show me some fair comparison that m43 can be the same quality with let say nex 5 or 7. Let alone “better”, then I will believe that m43 cameras are equal in IQ with other compact aps-c cameras
Are you all (except JF) dumb or something?!
Sensor size means nothing, but what you DO with that size. JF is absolutely right. Take the Sony sensor with 24mp crop it to 43 size and you have a 16mp sensor.
It is still as good as the original Sony sensor with the same DR and iso quality etc. just a lower MP count.
It is the technology that is used that matters and how big the pixels are.
Take 4 APSC Sensors and glue them together. Now the sensor is ALOT bigger, does it increase DR or anything. Nope.
The only advantage about a bigger sensor regarding IQ is the potential to:
a) have the same pixel pitch but more pixels due to the larger size
b) have the same MP, w/ bigger pixels -> better IQ
If you still don’t believe me. Let me tell you something else. I think APSC is WAY WAY to small. You should all just carry a Hubble telescope.
Well, if you are so smart, you wanna try to crop and glue it to 43 and see if it has the same IQ? It’s not that simple, otherwise there wont be any m43.
What my point was that a sensor with a larger surface area still enjoys an advantage in sensitivity and therefore noise levels. Modern sensor technologies can certainly improve matters, but there’s still no arguing with sheer real-estate.
Take a look at GX1 with its 16MP, never to compete the IQ of NEX-5N which also has the same MPix, BUT bigger sensor. Not to mention the IQ at the higher ISO
->Take 4 APSC Sensors and glue them together. Now the sensor is ALOT bigger, does it increase DR or anything. Nope.
Hell yes in fact
And if you cut that down to just 1mp, you still have the same image quality? That’s just nonsense!
Eh — LB — since your message is posted at about the same time as mine, I’m not sure whether I count as “dumb”… According to my simple exercise, it seems like using the 24Mpx NEX-7 sensor and putting it into an m43 form factor (of the same pixel density), you get 14.7 Mpx, *not* 16 Mpx. I have said nothing about the quality or whatever. I’m wondering why “everyoe” talks about 16 Mpx equivalence…
you are totally right, Nex 7 have slightly larger pixels pitch (3.9 µm) than 16 Mpix G3/GX1 sensor (3.75 µm). Nex 7 sensor with m43 size would have 16*(3.75/3.9)^2 = 14.8 MPix.
The OM-D with 14.8 Mpix NEx7 sensor makes me dream, but…it will stay a dream forever…
If the ergonomics are top notch it does sound good. I won’t be able to afford it at launch but when the next version comes along in 2-3 years I will pick up one of the last ones no problem. Ofcourse then I will miss out on that super EVF and next generation sensor…
Dear Readers:
the Question is where you get more?
Sony Nex 7 or Olympus E-M5
(for almost the same price)
Olyumpus was/ is in the advanced position because of the time of release.
What are you going to stick on the front of your Nex 7? The huge, fat unspectacular Zeiss and…? Oh. That’s right. All the other lenses suck.
Let us look at the Olympus equivalent. Namely, the 17/2.8.
a. Cheap.
b. Tiny.
c. Comes in two colors- Silver or Black.
Those are plus things. 🙂
That is the question I ask Olympus. Why should I not buy a 2nd NEX-7 body while I have one and the superb GH-2s?
The 24/1.8 E-Sonnar is spectacular. The inexpensive 30/3.5 is impressive, the flash works reliably, the LA-EA2 gives access to a huge variety of lenses with PDAF…..
Flash and Grip — the 2 least exciting things to go with it 🙁
We alreaDY have the FL50 and I’de way rather a DC in over a grip!
Remember people:
“Dentrasey hate Vogon”
I am sold. This will be a phenomenal travel camera.
I have had my EP-2 about a year now, and my only two faults with that camera are low light focus and dynamic range. If the new EM5 addresses those issues, the rest is gravy. And the price is right in line for a weather-sealed “semi-pro” camera.
Well, if you are looking for some good dynamic range, advantage in sensitivity and therefore noise levels, then there’s no way m43 will provide it better than aps-c compact cameras, like the nex-5n. Absolutely printable at ISO1600.
Admin, I think its time for a new pic
For me it’s time for vacation 🙂
Dimensions???
Is it 121 mm wide like the Pens? That is for me very important, not too big (and not too tiny) .. I think the Fuji is a bit too big and heavy for many people .
correct on the width. That has been leaked a while ago. 🙂
I’m getting this camera.
Why? because the sum of the parts is what matters to me.
Integrated EVF and excellent body contour and shape goes a *long* way in making an “inviting” camera.
If this camera has what it takes to be a “spiritual” successor of the OM line, it will be an superb tool for any photographers who are willing to see it as a package, instead of picking nits about the components totally out of the context which those will be used.
Now we just have to wait and see…
+1. Oly makes excellent photographers’ tools. If you were to go back and read anything about the OM design philosophy, you would see that the EM5 is a logical progression from the very first OM cameras.
Hmmm…with the weathersealed adaptor and the grip, could it mean the ungimping of 4/3 lenses? The grip/extra batt could probably help to provide the additional juice.
I hope for a few good primes till summer!
25 1.8 new 17mm and maybe that 50mm macro 🙂
Pair all that with a Panasonic 12-35mm f 2.8 and you are good to go! 🙂
I sincerely hope the tweakers at Olympus have tweaked the E-M5 to include fast AF for 4/3 lenses. I also want full compatibility with the FL36 R/FL50 R. Further it would be very nice if the external grip were to use BLS-1/5 batteries. Can’t wait to see the tweaked VF. At the very least it won’t fall accidentally off the body of break off easily, which would indeed be revolutionary for Oly.
PS: Are the buttons and other controls backlighted?
Only 4/3 lens by blue ring i think, and you need degree up firmware in lens.
Doesn’t sound too bad at all, though I think I’ll wait for the 2nd iteration…
yep , the same
i wait for the “Classic” model , which will no lose half his value after 6 months (like all pen…)
something like my E-3 bought 800€ 3 years ago that I could still sell 500€
OLED rear screen with 610 Million dots???
It’s nice to see the R in the flash name!!!!! the camera will trigger remotely!!!
Alas, remote strobe is going to be via epilepsy-inducing optical triggering.
Which every other camera company uses, too, hence the popularity of Pocket Wizards.
That’s a poor excuse.
Nice catch! That’s another bonus.
The body as such seems very interesting, although quite pricey. The kit doesn’t make much sense to me. For 100€ more, you can get a Canon 550D with an excellent Canon 15-85. This would have many advantages like
– produce better image quality
– larger sensor
– lens is faster in the tele-end
– lens has better focal lenght range
This comes to mind, because the 12-50 is so long (about as long as the Canon APS-C lens mentioned) and still has the f/6.3 aperture in the tele-end. So it’s not exactly a small combination, even though the lens and the body will be quite light.
Is the Canon 550D and/or the lens weathersealed?
Will you get Oly colors with that kit?
Can you shoot it wide open without getting mighty unsharp pictures?
Can you fit any other excellent m4/3 lenses on Canon 550D?
No.
So why even bother thinking of it?
DxO says that the DR of the GX-1 is significantly better (close to 2 stops at nominal ISO 800) than the E-P3, so I expect vastly better raw performance (vs E-P3), and knowing Olympus jpeg processing, spectacular jpegs. I hope to be picking this one up this fall, and using it in raw+jpeg.
I like the idea of RAW + JPEG, but doesn’t it slow the camera down too much?
For the sort of photos where I really want that kind of choice in PP, it isn’t much of an issue; I’m thinking about landscapes and set pieces. It does take a bit more buffer space for the (presumably) 22MB of data, but I’m really not a “spray and pray” type of shooter. We will see soon enough how the camera performs.
Ok, with these specs, we not doing to bad what we have is a picture of the future emerging.
In a similar way, we see the reimaging of the E system. Think back to the E-330 is was a kick off the future of the E system.
As per the sensor, we will have to give Oly a break until we see results and reviews — however — we see that Nikon can “tweak” a Sony sensor, lets up Olympus can do the same.
The price will not be too bad depending of what is in the box otherwise you can get an E-5 for that same price body only if you shop around.
I am willing to give olympus a pass until next week and the whole picture is revealed and hopefully a road map
Yes – for example if they have better A/D converters, there may be less noise and a higher dynamic range. The original sensor part from Panasonic is just analog according to an interview with Panasonic (as opposed to the GH2 sensor where the digital circuitry is on the sensor).
So how good are people expecting this image stabilization to be? Will it be the best ever? How many stops do you think you’ll get with it.
None, if the target is moving ;=(
A picture of the whole camera:
http://www.clubsnap.com/forums/four-thirds-standard-4-3-m43/1039736-full-picture-new-om-d-e-m1.html
It looks good, doesn’t it? Or is it another fake?
Yes but that is not an original image, just stitched leaked parts and we don’t know if they are from the final product.
Arggh! Just the same old mockups recycled one more time.
Good job, but fake.
fake
Should the 4.2 FPS be paired be combined with a really working AF tracking I’m sold. This lack of a proper C-AF was the only low of the mirrorless cameras so far and if this problem should be solved, the E-M5 could replace not only my E-PL3 but – on the long term – my E-5 too.
My predictions from three weeks ago for the new Oly camera:
1. a m43 faux-DSLR style camera (like the GH series)
2. bundled with 12-50 m43 kit lens (no new lenses)
3. built-in EVF (low res, no new tech, no innovation)
4. no predictive focus (forget using 4/3 lenses)
5.
no ‘extra’ manual controls(same as E-P3)6.
no optimization for video(unlike the GH series)7. no focus peaking, panorama, or HDR mode (not an NEX)
8. new art filters (yeah! -sarcasm-)
9.
same ol’ 12 mpx sensor(of course!)10. too little, too late (see E5)
Three weeks ago (before the recent flurry of sensor rumors) my expectations were MUCH lower. While I was hoping for a NEW sensor, it was helpful for me to remind myself of expections only three weeks ago. Assuming the rumors are true, I am happy to be wrong on at least 3 of my older predictions. I hope I’m proven wrong on some others on February 8th.
Your prediction no 4 *could* in principle be wrong. In principle, the 5 axis IS *could* be used in the Contax fashion (someone else suggested this a couple of weeks ago) to shift the sensor back and forth to achieve rapid focus also for 4/3 lenses. When combined with a slow PDAF based movement of the lens elements, the lens elements could be moved to avoid the sensor position to be offset from the relaxed position (which would cost energy if the sensor actuators are piezo electric) on a “longer horizon”.
Of course, piezo electric actuators normally have a limited stroke (normally ca 0.1 mm, but elements with 1-2 mm stroke exist, according to Wikipedia). NOTE: I have no reason to think a solution like this has been implemented, and it would surprise me if it is… (I don’t have a clue about the required movement of the sensor). But in principle, the sensor actuators can be used for more than IS.
I no longer expect any revolutionary leaps in technology or engineering by Olympus!
Profit margin is probably huge on ALL these mirrorless cameras. I think I’ll upgrade my Canon 20D with a new small highly spec. dslr, and just keep going with the Lumix GF1 + lenses. I have a Nikon coolpix when I really need to go small.
I’m over this.
Admin, the lenses please 😉
I have one foot on m43 (3 cameras and several lenses) and the other on pentax with K5. It will be interesting to see what they will announce tomorrow. That K5 sensor is amazing and I already own a GH2,which doesn’t exite me.
Hmmm… Price is getting a bit high. I’m still interested, but let’s be serious. For this amount it is possible to get a GX1 or G3 with kit lens, the lovely 25 Summilux and still have change left. It will be interesting to see how Olympus will justify the high price.
$370 for the 20mm 1.8 lens! It’s still the best investment to made in MFT — hands down!
+100
Only my 20mm is F1.7 ;).
To me, the 45/1.8 is just as good a deall — it is even cheaper then the 20/1.7, focuses faster (on Oly cameras, at least), and gives better colors (Oly cams).
Got both and they’re great; they are my most used m43 lenses. Third is my 9-18mm. I barely touch the 2 kit zooms anymore, but they’re handy to keep and they were very affordable anyway.
Certainly! My thoughts are now running around the prospect of buying an E-M5 with the kit zoom and maybe the 45mm,
or
GX1 with the kit zoom, 14mm, 20mm and 45mm,
or
GX1 with kit zoom and 25 Summilux and 45mm,
or
GX1 with kit zoom, 20mm and 45-175mm,
or
… You get the picture. The E-M5 is pretty darn expensive and getting a cheaper body quickly leaves a lot of room for great lenses. So I will take my time and think very carefully before handing over my cash.
Not sold on this over-hyped camera anymore. Not a complain, just saying it. With that price I am happy to have my GX1 + LVF2 and extra cash left, at least I can remove the LVF2 anytime if I want to go small (even smaller). Thanks admin as always.
Even though I am a Panny fan, don’t let us forget the IBIS in the E-M5 body. This is definitely an advantage over the Panny bodies. It depends on what lenses you are going to use most of the time (OIS or not). I am wondering about the IBIS-specs, though. Let’s wait…
Very true, it really depends on what lenses you’re gong to use. Since I use the 20/1.7 most of the time, that doesn’t bother me all that much.
Oly’s marketing strategy surely backfired, to me at least. They hyped up this camera a lot but the specs doesn’t deliver that wow factor at all.
Will probably wait for the PEN4 with the ‘new’ sensor…
Olympus needs to get their marketing tweaked.
Next episode in this Back to the Future game is to bring back the
Olympus Ace rangefinder system camera http://www.dslrmagazine.com/images/stories/Coleccionismo/Oly-Wallpaper-up/Olympus-Ace-lenses-600.jpg
What Olympus should do is to build something like medium format system camera.
Make a über body with exchangeble backs. Would’ve saved them 6 Pen bodies out of 7.
How often does Mamiya and Hasselblad update bodies? Just swap out the newest digiback once every 3-5 years or so.
Cool..so now my $699 GX1 is a super bargain! AWESOME.
The “better video than GH2” rumour was obviously false. The GX1 sensor hasn’t even got 60 fps readout like the GH2 sensor.
No- not in the electronic gadget world. You’d have to change out the sensor and other components. Go to Ricoh if you’re looking for something like that.
Also- comparing Medium Format Digital Mamiya and Hasselblads to µ4/3? Are you on crack?
A µ4/3 camera like a medium format camera could be made. Just don’t be surprised if it has a price tag like a medium format camera.
He was not comparing Medium Format Digital Mamiya and Hasselblads to µ4/3 he was referencing the update time periods and scope.
The sensor and to some extend the back display is the part that needs updating the most. So while keeping m43 just exchange the back with new unit and keep the functional body with best ergonomics possible.
Ricoh’s aproache is more costly because sensor is tied to the lens unit. When technology valid an upgrade just offer a new back for 599.
It’s just waste to throw away good body just because yo need new sensor. digi backs is the answer.
OK, whether so is video rumors fake or so is G3 sensor rumors fake. 😉
According to DXO, the sony sensor’s are almost twice as good as the olympus,
55 vs 81, thats crazy.
Tweak that Olympus.
You surely know what these numbers mean, so please explain 🙂
The final “number” from DxO is darned near meaningless. The individual graphs are worth looking at, and are quite illuminating.
…………….Fastest AF of any mirrorless AND DSLR camera!………
stop telling bullshit or repeating bullshit in captions!
it will have lousy continous autofocus. only in bright sunshine will it be fast. and only for dead or nailed to the ground objects…..
The AF on my 12-60 works well in dim lighting. Not sure where you are getting this.
He’s just angry Obama replaced him.
I wonder how fast focus will be with the second version of the mFT 14-42…
But it’s funny, a few months ago so many people wanted to have that Pana sensor in a PEN, and now so many people are not satisfied with that 😉
For a new, massive improved sensor we need a groundbreaking new technology, and we will not have that in the next few years. And remember, most important thing is the right light and the right atmosphere 🙂
The best Panasonic sensor at the moment is in a GH-2. This OMG is rumored to have the GX-1’s sensor.
What is the wise thing to do? Buy this or buy a GH-3 that is certain to come along very soon? 🙂
I still prefer Olympus, it doesn’t matter for me if another sensor is a few percents better 🙂 Maybe if I would make sports photography I would buy another cam, but for travelling several weeks by train, bus and ship, with a lot of luggage, and walking every day 8, 10 or 12 hours, a PEN is perfect for me. But I’m not a pro and never will be, it’s just for fun. Everybody can do what he wants and buy what he wants or thinking he needs 🙂
GH-2, fantastic cam. I screwed my GH2 after a few weeks into the wild. Weather probably came entered the camera body. All lenses were zuiko 4/3rds, the seem to be fully functional and can handle a lot of abuse and rain.
If GH3 is not weather sealed it is worth nothing even with the very best new sensor tech on board.
I need a camera that can stand a lot of abuse and rainy weather. It seems like the E-M5 is ready for this.
Add some fast focussing (forget the marketing bullshit), descent sensor circuit and hopefully a 24, 25 and 50frps in HD and it should be a very capable cam that will keep working for years to come and not fail in the first raindrops like GH2.
If GH3 is weather proof it becomes a different story.
Had the opposite experience. My Gh2 lived through 2 rain storm shoots. 🙂 sorry to hear it though. 🙁
GH3 weather sealing is very likely now that their newest X lenses have it.
What X lenses have weather-resistance? The un-announced ones?
Wait for the GH3 announcement, then decide if the specs are worth waiting for until it’s actually stocked. Very likely to see the next big m43 sensor advance at least…
When will GH3 be announced? Panasonic seems to take a lot of time between announcement and actual release.
E-M5: GX sensor is only a few months old. with some improved electronics olympus can squeeze a lot of IQ out of it. I don’t understand the sensor negativity on this forum. This is a good 16MP sensor.
If E-M5 can focus 4/3rds lenses I will 100% buy. I own loads of SHG glass. If E-M5 won’t focus 4/3rds glass I will wait for GH3.
According to the samples at The Imaging Resource and the test at http://admiringlight.com/blog/panasonic-lumix-dmc-gx1-review/
the GX1 has better image quality than the GH2.
Looking forward to the E-PM2. The justifcaton for going m43 is its small size. Or video for GH. If it’s going to get big, you’d get NEX.
Unless you want a few more lenses, such as wide angle primes or native fisheye lenses.
Any rumors on when the gh3 comes out? I’m still using a gf1. The only camera worthy of a upgrade at the moment is a Fuji. Do I really have to wait another 2 years for micro cameras to be more pro?
And can someone explain the video codec. I thought mpeg was not great.
Hahahah, haha, now who’s laughing. Have fun at Alpha rumors.
? Not getting that….
It’s not so much the codec, but what the camera does with it. True, MPEG 2 generally is not great, but check out the Sony F3 and the new Canon C-300- both use a type of Mpeg 2 but still have better quality and are easier to color correct than a lot of supposedly more advanced Mpeg 4 codecs. Mpeg 4 is a better codec for distribution and streaming, and AVCHD is a derivative of MPEG4, blu ray style; but it can be hell to color correct in these cheaper cameras. AVCHD is a dynamic bit rate codec, meaning it changes the amount of information it takes in based on the i frame logged every half secod, it ups the bandwidth if it detects huge changes in i frames. This allows it to have less noise than other codecs because it adapts to the noise level. Mpeg 4 H264 natively doesn’t do this, but it uses a higher bandwidth all the time. Anyway, it’s really what the cameras do with the codec, nobody complained about the 5D MKII shooting Mpeg4 h264, because the image looked nice. Put technicolor cineform on as a picture profile, and then you see that Canon simply crushed the blanks, used an aggressive S-curve, and made a pleasing image. I think in any camera under 5 grand you are stuck with what the camera makers give you despite what the codec is. Contemporary cameras always utilize good codecs, they are not going to put crap codecs in their cameras- hence why mini dv, hdv, dv50, sony’s old xdcam stuff, and dvcpro are pretty much extinct. If you want better footage, you have to buy the 10 grand cameras with all their option, fidelity, good processing, and flat images for maximum color correcting. So I hope I answered your question without saying something wrong.
And finally, I can hear them laughing over at Sony alpha rumors.
that is pretty expensive and it is probably bigger than the nex7
Oly says this about their AF before every release, even in their DSLR days. Funny, canikon never made such claims yet all the pros ignore Oly’s super fantastic, greatest ever and buy canikon.
Humility, Oly. Humility. Talk with action not cheap words. Maybe that’s why you’re near the bottom of the camera makers.
Pros who care about AF speed probably also care about FPS. Olympus doesn’t offer a D-SLR that shoots 9 fps.
For many, fast and accurate AF cuts down on the number of pictures they have to take to get a deliberate shot rather than picking one out of a random bunch.
Went shooting with a friend a few months ago. He kept drilling every subject, even static ones, with maximum fps. I wonder about his editing process.
$1200 for a “tweaked” Pana sensor? Yeah, these will be piling up in the warehouses too. When it was $1000 for a potentially better sensor, I was excited. Now, I’m back to waiting on delivery of a NEX 7.
lol, when was that ? Euros man, EUROS.
The closer we get to the release date, the more it becomes clear it is just one big hype…I have a GH2 and I am sure as hell not gonna change if this is all true. Hmm happy with it anyway…
I predicted pretty much every single one of these specs 2 months ago! 😀
http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/read.asp?forum=1041&message=40080353
Why didn’t you tell us! Yu could have saved us so much trouble!
just kidding, but please do stay around; you seem to be very good at forecasting.
Thanks!
We were hoping für cutting edge technology.
We’re getting recycled crap instead. What a disappointment!
We knew Olympus top management is rotten.
It seems some bad apples on top are spoiling the whole bunch.
The sensor is only a few months old, far from being recycled crap. I think Olympus simply was not able to obtain anything better.
But since only the analog part is from Panasonic, they may be able to get even better performance out of it than the GX1, which is already very good.
OMG, all this whining is really getting on my nerves! If you don’t like it, don’t buy it! Life can be so easy… Buy the Fuji brick instead.
http://camerasize.com/compare/#258,183
Yea it’s bad to day. Like a sudden turn-around for some reason. I’m guessing it’s the price. It surprises me every time how naive people are, thinking all these upgrades and weathersealing come for free. And then we have to do the whole € vs $, VAT vs No VAT, and MSRP is not street price routine again. They’re like dogs experiencing everything for the first time with the same enthusiasm, as if it’s the very first new camera ever.
Life is full of and repeat. 😀
It’s modernity for you “Never be happy with what you bought over a week ago”
Wilber Eugene Smith took this on a Minolta SRT 101.
http://www.masters-of-photography.com/S/smith/smith_minamata.html
He did not worry about Nikons or Canons and their lenses, his Minolta and its Rokkor MC was his choice. He was a photographer not a hype worrier. He changed the world with this picture. No ISO 12500 here.
My second SLR was a SRT101 after a SR7, I can assure you that good gear does not make a good photographer, I have boxes of 35mm proof!!
But I do enjoy my E30 and EP2.
Exactly! I’m a fan of the SRT101 as well and still own it. 😉
Objectively, the new body has pretty much that to offer for what people have been asking. The 4/3 users wanted a replacement for the E-XX and E XXX models, many m4/3 users wanted a body with inbuilt EVF. Both, 4/3 and m4/3 users wanted a weather-sealed body.
If the E-M5 is rather state of the art than cutting edge, so what? The catching up game will never stop. There will always be a newer, “better” model. If one’s a bit behind the curve, one can relax.
– new sensor (not an old sensor, but rather state of the art) , check!
– small body, check!
– larger body with battery grip, check!
– weather-sealed body, check
– inbuilt EVF, check
– tilt screen, check
– plenty control wheels and buttons, check
– can focus PDAF lenses, unknown
– EVF with special feature, unknown
– inbuilt strobe, unknown
– lighted controls, unknown
I’m a 43 user and i sure as hell dont want an evf if its anything like previous! Is this viewfinder special? ie can it fool the eye? Does it PDAF? these are the issues for me. Hope so but not getting too excited based on the sensor debarcle.
I have an E30 and an EP2 with the VF2. You will not have any worries with an integrated VF2 EVF.
I’ll reserve judgement regarding the EVF until I have looked through it. There are however two inherent issues with EVFs without solution:
1. There is no way to see the subject directly, but only indirectly. It surely makes for a different experience when shooting.
2. Having to turn the camera on to look through the finder sucks for several reasons. I often walk around and frame potential subjects without taking a picture. The solution? I’d have to get a director’s viewfinder. 😛
EVF is nice being able to see actual effects but the gain in dim light with lack of contrast is bad.
Also it should come with health warning. What is the long term effect for looking into bright lit object for long periods. My eye hurts when using VF2 too long in medium light conditions.
– new sensor (not an old sensor, but rather state of the art) , check!
-> -> UNCHECK.
What alternate reality are you in? The GX1 sensor is not state of the art for anything. It’s not a ‘bad’ sensor, but way behind ‘state of the art’
Even if they ‘tweak’ it and make it the best m43 sensor, it’s still years behind the game.
Retro brick isn’t any successor to higher end DSLRs.
And G(su)X1 sensor’s dynamic range is worser than GH2’s sensor which itself isn’t up to modern standards because of its high base ISO.
+1
Worser, OMG!
Did it ever come to your mind that ENGLISH MIGHT NOT BE EVERYBODY’S MOTHERTONGUE ? ! ?
What makes or breaks the deal for me is how they implement manual focus assistance.
If there is an improvement that keeps the framed image in view while providing sharpness feedback (like Panasonic or Sony do), I’m sold.
Otherwise I’ll just keep the E-PL 2
“manual focus assistance” would be a great bonus for those of interested in using legacy manual focus lenses, e.g., Nikkor or even Leica.
That feature and PDAF support for 43 lenses would make this camera a very versatile camera (along with its weather resistance, and updated sensor).
i wish they put an option to make a smaller focusing box on top of the image, not magnify the whole thing. it will be easier and faster to use on legacy lenses…
I think I will buy it!
+1 for manual focus assistant, something like focus peeping maybe…
rotating screen? stabilisation during video?
2 features that are acording to me mandatory
there’s a lot to be said for refining technology to its maximum potential rather than jumping on the latest and newest – and unproven.
Exactly, at least we don’t get Fuji’s white orbs!
It’s the X10, a small sensor camera that produces the orbs.
I was looking at GX1 kit and 20mm pana lens for $1240 and Oly for $1500 and only 1 lens is it worth it ?
Well..with that prime…you know the image quality will be better than the OM..especially in low light!!!!!
Plus your kit will be much smaller than the Oly.
Are you starting to suspect, as I am, that maybe panasonic has infiltrated Olympus and have a man at work on the E-M5? Because at its price the E-M5 seems like doing wonders for Panasonic marketing. “Look how cheap our GX1 is!”
At least, after a night’s sleep I’m starting to think the GX1 is one hell of a deal. 😉
So you think because the sensor is the same as the GX1 that the entire camera is the same as the GX1? You buy cameras solely based on the sensor? Not the form factor, usability, viewfinder, etc?
I’m not saying this E-M5 is the best camera ever (nobody on here can say anything about it yet as nobody on here has used it or seen an image from it), but sensor is just a small part of the overall camera package.
The sensor is a pretty big part of a digital camera body, not in size but in the value of the body. Especially now as sensors are evolving, and especially in Olympus MFT where the sensor has been the weakest link in their product line for years. So the sensor may not be the whole story to a body, but it’s definitely a big part of the story for an Olympus FT/MFT body.
All things being equal, the sensor for the Olympus E-M5 will determine how “new” and “professional” this body really is compared to previous Olympus bodies. The sensor could make or break the OM-D E-M5 — and perhaps determine the future of the Olympus camera division (for better or worse).
Oh no, the E-M5 could well be worth it, and I could still end up buying one. The thing is that the GX1 is simply half the price and that begs the question if the E-M5 will be twice the camera. While I do value build quality and performance, the GX1 has that too. How will it balance out?
Well, to be fair you would have to include the VF on the GX1 to compare to the new OM. (I got my VF for $199), so that elevates the cost of the Pany to $898. That still leaves you with $302 toward some prime glass. I thought the GF1 was a good shooting experience, and I would compare the use of my GX1 as a supercharged, sports-car version of the GF1. It has to do more with form factor stuff than the sensor actually (although that is a plus), like the much improved AF, the write speed with a 95MB/s card, (I can now shoot 7 frames in auto bracket while in RAW with no wait time. They fire off at 4.2 frames per sec., making HDR shots much more fluid than my GF1 which could not do this). Also, all of the extra function buttons, the improvements with the firmware update, the readout for the powerX zooms, all of the fn buttoms and (I never thought I would say this), the touch screen for reviewing photos…really make shooting a much more fun and FLUID experience.
I really do not think the OM is going to blow me away. Its bigger, but it will have the same Raw image quality. For a faster frame rate and water resistance (not with all 9 lenses that I own), just doesn’t sway me…but we will have to wait and see…maybe there is more.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
My desire to move from my 7D to the m4/3 system has a lot to do with getting more fun out of photography. I’m really getting interested in theories on composition and design, and want a ‘user’ camera that will allow me to practice more often, while still keeping good quality files.
While I love the E-M5, the GX1 also seems like a really fun camera. Like you say, I use RAW and so can’t expect much difference between the files from the E-M5 and GX1.
Since I’m not interested in the X lens, I could get the kit with the older 14-42, the 25 Summilux and maybe add the viewfinder (don’t know if I should). Could be more fun than the E-M5 with its kit lens. (Don’t need the faster frame rate or weather sealing either.)
Balls, dont care about the gadgetry, want ovf and good dynamic range.
Go buy a DSLR then.
Therin lies the problem! I have a 43rds SLR and would like an upgrade. I have 43 glass and the e5 is too big for my needs. Main issue I have is dynamic range (landscape photography), e5 is also not quite there in my humble opinion (does not justify the upgrade price for the improved image quality).
I just wish Oly would let us know one way or the other whether they are going to continue with OVF and PDAF.
If not I will be jumping ship, which is a real shame cos I love my lenses.
I just want a weatherproof M4/3 replacement for my E-P1. The E-M5 is that and I imagine I will notice an improvement in focussing speed and and dynamic range in excess of that which would be experienced by someone upgrading from, say, an E-P3. I’m looking forward to it and will definitely buy it.
The DR will be the same as the G3 and the GX1. To believe anything else is to believe more hype.
Same here.. sometimes ignorance is bliss.. when I was using the D70s I never worried about the gear that much.. focus was on making the photograph.. all this sensor hype is disorienting. quite obviously.. the m43 system is on an evolutionary curve.. and we will seeing more and better cameras. I’m not going to wait around for the perfectly evolved m43. Coming from an E-P1 i think its a worthwhile upgrade, even if it has the “same old” pana sensor.
I upgraded from a GF1 to the GX1 and was very happy with the change. The new camera does so many things better. (I do believe that our cameras-both Pany & Oly- could have extended DR with the tech that is available today, though).
The thing is..with the web..it is easy to get into too much minutia and loose perspective. With these weeks of hype I just kicked back and was thinking “This is too good to be true. People here are taking softball info and turning into a major league hardball game in their head, and then building on the fantasy.”
I do think the OM will be a fantastic camera..but all that being said I think that it is overpriced considering its base technology, in 2012. The price should be much lower. Perhaps Oly should have waited to release this camera with an all new sensor…then it would have been a HUGE hit.
+1
I love the whole idea of the camera and it ticks every box I have, but the price is very high. For what it is (so far), I think both the GX1 and G3 are better value for money.
Plus, lenses are just as important as a sensor. Saving a bundle to use for extra (or better) lenses, makes perfect sense.
I have plenty of time, so I can just see what the E-M5 really is and what the retail price will be once it hits the store. But my mind is on the long term and I could be perfectly happy using a GX1 or G3 while I wait for Panasonic to offer something more sensible to compete with the E-M5 (or whatever will be developed next).
+1000 Spot on.
I’m still excited for this camera, but the price is premium for many. Olympus does a great job of infusing art and heritage in their products and deserves credit. They have a great sense of aesthetics.
Sometimes that’s worth a premium – depends on your preference.
It will be an improvement over the GX1 coupled with better processing that gives very nice skin tones. My E-PL2 is very nice and one of my favorite cameras because it’s takes very pleasing shots with the 20mm.
I would like to see this technology in the Pen series also with a return to more classic styling in the Pen Lite. The Pen Mini should merge with XZ series and become a fixed lens to compete with Canon G1x.
Inspite of the letdown of the current spec projected compared to the earlier exaggerated hype apparently from Oly, I really wanted this Oly E-D5 model to have a new sensor with PDAF for their 43 users and help put Oly back on the map and on its feet financially. Both Oly and Pany need to do well for the m4/3 format to meet the challenges they face on all sides. No doubt Oly will make improvements with the processing of the GX1 sensor, hopefully improved IBIS and likely higher magnification on the EVF. My fears are at $1450 for camera with lens this will become a niche product which Oly enthusiasts will buy but not a high volume item. Good to see that Pany at least sharing the GX1 sensor which only makes sense but as others say indication that Pany has a new sensor in the works probably for the GH3. Also the GX1 sensor perhaps explains why Pany has not been running a counter series of leaks for their next camera as they already were aware of what was coming with the E-D5 and perhaps have something even more in the works. My hopes are it will be the rangefinder GF7 ala NEX7 but may be a GH3 not much different with metal body but no IBIS, newer sensor, and rumored they wanted a higher resolution EVF and of course higher HD video capability. Any new rumors on the new Pany models?
I think in about 6, 8 months Oly will bring out an E-P4 with the same sensor as the E-D5, not weathersealed and cheaper 🙂
But I know a few people still waiting for a mirorless cam from working good with the old TT-Lenses. It would be good if Oly soon can make such a cam. And maybe I would also buy a 14-54 then 😉
The Lumix G3 is around half the price of the new Olympus. I guess if you shoot RAW you will be able to match the IQ of the new super-über-Oly.
The Oly has
– IBIS
– weather proofing
– a decent colour rendition
The G3 has
– a fully articulated LCD
I guess I’ll have to wait for another year to replace my GH1 (which I like apart from the clipped highlights problem and a substandard colour rendition). I hope it’s going to last another year.
This is the camera I have been waiting for. The e-620 hit almost every mark for me but this is finally it!
This camera looks a bit over priced to me.
I know it gets us all the features we needed from camera body (realistic expectations, not hopes and dreams, especially on the sensor issue some so easily call “old”)
But the do intend to sell this at only $100 less than D7000 body. Doesn’t look logical, at first, but hey it is the first of its kind and if you want smaller and more modern tech, I guess we’ll have to pay for it… 🙁
The E-M5 is priced lower than when the E-5 was released and it is a better spec’d camera. This is an Oly “pro” camera for $1200 it is rather attractive and you know it will only be a few months before the price goes down just like all other Oly cameras. If the price is too high then you are not the target consumer for this camera. Go look at the G3 but you will not get IBIS, metal body, weathersealing or Oly jpegs.
Good comments.
Sums it up very well
Agreed. Actually, I think the price is reasonable because it is the only weather sealed mirrorless and the cheapest (to be) announced weather sealed interchangeable lens camera.
I wanted to buy the K-5 because it is weather sealed, has IBIS, and has really good IQ, but it was too expensive at $1600. Even though it is cheaper now, the E-M5 is more interesting to me for I’ve gotten accustomed to the size and JPG of my E-PL2. Used to shoot with a 50D (in RAW), but not so much since getting into m43. Sure the IQ of the E-M5 won’t be as good as a K-5, but it’ll be good enough (especially in JPG) and it fulfils my other prerequisites just fine.
Can’t wait for the official announcement and some reviews.
Well that does it, I have waited a long time for this camera. 4/3 never had a pro grade solution that had the portability I wanted. This looks like it will have just about everything I hoped for and $1,200 is a very good price for this camera, IMO. Wow, this is great!!!
Name one pro camera with an “art mode”
Olympus E-M5.
I’ll probably name it something, yes.
What is wrong with art-modes? I find them useful, if i photograph friends, a couple of art-mode pics makes people laughing an at easy and eager to try to take som shats them self.
I have published piccs with taken with art mode and tweaked them further in PS to perfect them. Published on full pages in magazines.
Like any PS tool, use art modes only when the desired effect fits the subject, publication and assignment.
And you need a $1200 -plus lens- metal weather sealed 16 MP camera to take funny photos of friends? LOL! Any compact, or even some phones, are more than capable. Serious gear is for serious tasks. Or for those that have it small.
yes, i still stick back to my a77 wish list 🙂 EM5 cant convince me while xpro1 too epxensive for me.
Weather sealed and pro grade camera body for a consumer grade sensor. Then there’s Oly’s usual hyperbolic “fastest AF ever” claims once again. Should be interesting to see this camera go up against the similar priced NEX-7. OMD, straight to the bargain bin once again. Oly fans, get set for 3 years of the G1X sensor in upcoming Oly cameras. Can’t believe I was pricing out a lens collection for this camera. JPEG noise reduction and post processing to clean up a noisy Pana sensor? No thanks.
BTW, increase DR in JPEG is made up DR. If it isn’t in the RAW, it’s faked data. End of story.
One last thing, a “tweaked” 1.44mil pixel lcd viewfinder is revolutionary? Wow, what a load of BS. Have fun with that flickering view.
I am wondering if E-P3 and E-M5 puts Olympus on the same path that led to the failure of 4/3.
1st – Olympus has desirable features (IBIS, live view) due to a smaller sensors.
2nd – Olympus made boat loads of money by overpricing body and lenses
3rd – Olympus stop making improvement to their lineup and instead use the money to pay off Yakuza
4th – Competition through technological advancements matched Olympus’ features, beats Olympus at IQ with bigger sensors and drive down their prices with economy of scale.
1200 dollar is a killer price. It will kill Olympus.
mFT pricing makes little sense:
– GX1 is a rangefinder styled G3 minus its EVF and articulated LCD yet sells for 40% more
– GH2 has a better sensor than the E-M5 yet was selling for as little as $600 over the holidays with kit 14-42 lens, 1/2 the projected price of the E-M5.
Can’t see being an early adopter of the E-M5 at $1200 for a body with Panny’s consumer 16MP sensor, simply makes more sense to see how it tests out and consider it 4-6 months after release. Maybe something will change in the actual specs to alter my view, but I’m not holding my breath.
Steve, your point is valid, but I think you may still be selling the Olympus E-M5 short. Weather sealing alone is an expensive feature to design and manufacture, so the E-M5 is not a normal consumer camera. It may also have some other standout features to justify the high cost. Plus, the GH2 has been out for over a year, and may be reduced in price in anticipation of a (rumored) GH3.
As a buyer, I think your analysis is sound (according to your needs), but I think some of the price discrepancies are 1) natural market fluctuations, and 2) normal design and manufacturing markups for niche (e.g., professional) camera bodies.
Also, the new Fuji X-Pro 1 is $1,600 which (by some standards) makes the Olympus E-M5 look relatively cheap. I think the real value of the E-M5 won’t be known until the camera is released. If it supports 43 glass with PDAF, then it’ll be a downright steal (i.e., much of the Oly 43 glass is superb… and expensive, so a camera body which fully supports the glass is invaluable). On the other hand, if hopes are dashed with the introduction, and the sensor is a disappointment, then Olympus fans will have another chill pill to swallow while we wait for a fully capable Olympus MFT body for relief.
Since Olympus seems to be making such a big deal of this body, and as you point out, it’s pricey, many of us are hoping for the best: weather-sealed, 43 glass PDAF support, and a genuinely competitive sensor. If Olympus pulls off the trifecta with the E-M5, even $1200 would be a huge value for many MFT shooters (e.g., those with Oly 43 glass) and would be a sign of greater Olympus cameras to come (for those not interested in the premium model features).
So while beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, the value of the E-M5 may be with the 43 glass holders. 😉
Is it possible for an OVF rangefinder style on the hotshoe? could you control pdf through it… think i’m clutching at straws now!
I think if the camera had PDAF we would of heard about it by now 🙁
All that phoney baloney hype for nothing.
And they except us to pay THAT much for WHAT NOW??!?!?!? same shite basically for nigh 3 years, SUCK THAT FISH MAN I’M OUT
U lose Olympus, and tainting the good name of OM=last nail in the coffin F. U.!!
+10000
Is this OM5 consider Pro camera from Olympus ?
I still no quite sure what is basic criterias for mirrorless to achieve that Pro status .
Fuji’s X Pro , yes is a Pro cause it’s images comparable to those best fullframe DSLR , but how about the rest ?
Batteries? Can any of your sources shed light on which battery the new camera will take? BLM, BLS, or something new?
Price? not horrible, but well out of my budget… otherwise shaping up to be a camera I’d be very interested in (tho maybe more interested if it’s guts were in a slimmed E-5xx body at half the price 🙂 )
Am I the only one wondering about the 610 million dot displ
Am I the only one wondering about the 610 million dot display?