The OM-1 Mark II Review That Stuns the World: A Photographer's Perspective

Introduction

Hey there, photography enthusiasts! Today, I'm diving into the OM-1 Mark II, a true gem in the world of cameras. This isn't just any camera; it's the flagship model from OM System, loaded with cutting-edge technology and features that make it stand out. Whether you're an amateur photographer or a seasoned pro, there's something in this review that'll catch your eye.

The OM-1 Mark II is a powerhouse in a compact body. Priced at $2,400 (or £2,199), this camera boasts a 20MP Four Thirds Stacked BSI Live MOS sensor and can shoot at blazing speeds—up to 120fps with fixed autofocus or 50fps with continuous autofocus. It's designed for photographers who demand high performance without compromising on portability.

Here's what we'll be covering:

1. Design and Build Quality: A closer look at its rugged yet sleek design.
2. Image Quality: How its advanced sensor and stabilization tech deliver stunning photos.
3. Autofocus Performance: The AI-driven autofocus system that's redefining speed and accuracy.
4. Video Capabilities: Video recording features that cater to both casual videographers and professionals.
5. Creative Features: Special shooting modes that unleash your creativity.

Grab your favorite lens, because we’re about to embark on a detailed exploration of what makes the OM-1 Mark II a game-changer!

1. Overview of the OM-1 Mark II

History and Significance of the OM-1 Mark II in the Photography Industry

The OM System, formerly known as Olympus, has a rich history of producing high-quality cameras that cater to both amateur and professional photographers. The OM-1 Mark II is a shining example of this legacy. This camera builds on the success of its predecessor, the original OM-1, but takes things to a whole new level with several notable advancements.

The OM-1 Mark II represents a significant milestone in the world of photography. It’s not just another upgrade; it’s an evolution designed to push the boundaries of what photographers can achieve. This camera maintains its iconic compact form while integrating cutting-edge technology that makes it more powerful and versatile than ever.

Key Features and Advancements

This camera is packed with features that make it stand out in a crowded market:

• 20MP Four Thirds Stacked BSI Live MOS sensor: Offers excellent image quality, dynamic range, and low-light performance.
• High-Speed Continuous Shooting: Capable of shooting up to 50 frames per second (fps) with continuous autofocus (C-AF) and an astonishing 120 fps with fixed autofocus (AF).
• Advanced Autofocus System: Boasts a 1,053-point AI detect Quad Pixel AF system, which includes improved human detection capabilities.
• Enhanced Image Stabilization: The improved In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) system offers up to 8.5 stops of compensation when paired with Sync IS lenses.
• Weather Sealing: With an IP53 rating, this camera is designed to withstand challenging environments, making it a reliable companion for outdoor shoots.
• Live Grad ND Filter: A world's first in-camera feature that allows for real-time adjustments up to ND128, perfect for landscape photographers who want to control exposure without carrying physical filters.

These advancements make the OM-1 Mark II not just an incremental upgrade but a revolutionary tool for modern photographers. From high-speed action shots to stunning landscapes, this camera handles it all effortlessly. There's much more to explore about its design, build quality, and ergonomics in the following sections.

OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-1 Mark II Camera 20MP

Capturing the beauty of the world with precision and clarity

Product information

$2,399.99

Product Review Score

4.69 out of 5 stars

168 reviews

Description

The OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-1 Mark II Camera delivers stunning image quality with its 20MP sensor, perfect for professional photographers looking for top-of-the-line performance. With advanced features like 5-axis image stabilization and high-speed shooting capabilities, this camera is a powerhouse for capturing every moment with precision and clarity.

Product links

Order Now

2. Design, Build Quality, and Ergonomics

The OM-1 Mark II catches your eye with its sleek and professional look. But it's not just about appearances. This camera is tough and can handle water, making it ideal for adventurous photographers. With an IP53 rating, it can withstand dust and moisture, allowing you to shoot in challenging conditions without worry.

Physical Attributes

Let's take a closer look at the physical features:

• Body Material: The OM-1 Mark II feels sturdy with its magnesium alloy body. This makes it durable without adding too much weight (599g).
• Weather Sealing: Whether you're in a desert or rainforest, this camera's comprehensive weather sealing will protect it from the elements.
• Dials and Buttons: The rubberized dials and buttons are conveniently positioned for quick access to important settings. This smart design lets you make changes without taking your eyes off the viewfinder.

Usability and Handling Experience

The design of this camera isn't just about looks; it's also about how easy and comfortable it is to use.

Comfortable Grip

The grip is designed to fit naturally in your hand, reducing fatigue during long photo sessions. The textured surface ensures a secure hold, even if you're wearing gloves or dealing with slippery conditions.

Viewfinder and Screen

• Electronic Viewfinder (EVF): The high-resolution EVF (5.76m-dots) provides a clear view with 0.83x magnification. It's also resistant to fogging, so you won't have to constantly wipe it in humid environments.
• Articulating Touchscreen: The 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen is impressive too. It can tilt forward for selfies or vlogging and has adjustable brightness levels for different lighting situations.

Port Positioning

The placement of ports like the microphone socket is smart—no blocking the screen when it's flipped out. These small details demonstrate the camera's user-friendly design.

Durability

This camera is made to withstand the test of time. From its strong construction to its excellent weather sealing, the OM-1 Mark II is a dependable companion for photographers who need gear that can handle tough environments.

3. Image Quality: Sensor and Image Stabilization

The OM-1 Mark II stands out from the crowd because of its advanced sensor technology. This camera is powered by a 20MP Four Thirds Stacked BSI Live MOS sensor, which is more than just technical jargon. It directly affects the quality of your photos in ways that will amaze you.

How the Sensor Specifications Impact Image Quality

The stacked design of the sensor is all about speed and efficiency. It allows the camera to process information very quickly, resulting in less distortion when capturing moving subjects and sharper images even at high speeds. The Back Side Illuminated (BSI) technology used in this sensor further improves its ability to capture light, making it possible to take stunning photos even in low-light situations.

Here are some key features of the sensor and how they benefit your photography:

1. Resolution: With 20 megapixels, you get a good balance between detail and file size.
2. Dynamic Range: This refers to the camera's ability to capture a wide range of tones from dark to light areas. The OM-1 Mark II excels in this area, ensuring that your photos have plenty of details in both shadows and highlights.
3. Color Reproduction: The color science behind this sensor is designed to give you natural-looking colors straight out of the camera, so you spend less time editing and more time shooting.

Just imagine being able to capture a sunset where you can see every subtle shade of color in the sky without losing any details in the darker parts. That's exactly what this sensor allows you to do.

The Power of Image Stabilization

In addition to its impressive sensor, the OM-1 Mark II also features an excellent image stabilization system. This is crucial for reducing blurriness caused by shaky hands or movement during handheld shooting.

The image stabilization system in the OM-1 Mark II is so effective that it can compensate for up to 8.5 stops of camera shake. Here's how it benefits your photography and videography:

1. Better Low Light Performance: With the help of image stabilization, you can take sharp photos even in dimly lit environments where you would normally need a tripod.
2. Steady Videos: If you enjoy shooting videos, you'll appreciate how this camera's image stabilization keeps your footage smooth and free from jittery movements.

To demonstrate the power of this image stabilization system, I took a photo of purple crocuses using an OM 150-600mm lens set at 220mm focal length, ISO640, aperture of f/5.6, and a shutter speed of 1/250s—all handheld! Thanks to the image stabilization, I was able to capture every detail with perfect clarity.

"I managed to capture a crystal-clear photo of purple crocuses using an OM 150-600mm lens at 220mm with settings at ISO640, f/5.6, 1/250s—all handheld! The image stabilization did all the heavy lifting, ensuring every detail was tack sharp."

In summary, if you're someone who enjoys photographing fast-moving subjects or often finds yourself in challenging lighting conditions, the combination of the OM-1 Mark II's sensor and image stabilization features make it an essential tool for achieving outstanding image quality.

4. Autofocus Capabilities and Performance

The autofocus (AF) capabilities of the OM-1 Mark II are one of its standout features. Let's take a closer look at what makes it so impressive.

Overview of the Autofocus System

The OM-1 Mark II features an advanced AI detect Quad Pixel AF system. This technology uses a high number of focus points (1,053 to be exact) to ensure that your images are always sharp, regardless of the shooting conditions. What sets this AF system apart is its ability to intelligently detect and track subjects such as human faces, eyes, and even animals like cats and dogs. And with user-friendly subject detection settings in the Super Control Panel, it's easy to customize your focus preferences.

Innovative Features

Here are some key features of the autofocus system:

• AI Detection: Recognizes and tracks human faces and eyes, as well as animals.
• Quad Pixel AF: Offers four times the focusing points compared to traditional systems.
• Subject Detection AF: Available both in photo and video modes.

These features work together to deliver fast and accurate focusing performance, even in challenging situations.

Performance in Different Shooting Scenarios

To truly understand how well the OM-1 Mark II performs, let's see how it handles various types of photography:

Portrait Photography

In portrait mode, the AI detect Quad Pixel AF locks onto eyes with remarkable precision. Even when your subject moves slightly or turns their head, the focus remains sharp. This is a game-changer for anyone who shoots portraits regularly.

Wildlife Photography

When tracking fast-moving animals, such as birds in flight or pets playing in the park, the autofocus excels. The subject detection AF feature makes it easier to capture those fleeting moments without missing a beat.

Low Light Conditions

Low light can be a nightmare for many cameras, but not for the OM-1 Mark II. Its autofocus is notably effective even in dim environments, ensuring that you still get crisp shots without hunting for focus.

Sports Photography

Capturing action-packed scenes is where this camera shines brightly. With continuous shooting speeds of up to 50fps with C-AF (Continuous Autofocus), you’re almost guaranteed to nail that perfect shot.

Final Thoughts on Autofocus Capabilities

The OM-1 Mark II's autofocus system is a standout feature that sets it apart from other cameras in its class. Whether you're a portrait photographer, wildlife enthusiast, or sports shooter, this camera's AF capabilities will impress you. It's fast, reliable, and delivers consistently sharp images across various genres of photography.

5. Video Recording Features and Quality

The OM-1 Mark II is not only great for taking photos, but it also excels in video recording.

Supported Resolutions and Formats

The OM-1 Mark II offers a wide range of video recording options:

• 4K 60fps video capture: Smooth and high-quality footage for any type of video.
• Full HD at up to 240fps: Perfect for creating stunning slow-motion effects.
• ProRes RAW 4:4:4 12bit support: Allows for greater color depth and flexibility in post-production when using external devices like the ATOMOS NINJA series.

Overall Video Quality

The video quality produced by this camera is top-notch. This is thanks to its 20MP Four Thirds Stacked BSI Live MOS sensor, which ensures clear and vibrant footage. Here are the key factors that contribute to its exceptional performance:

• Dynamic Range: The camera's ability to capture a wide range of light intensities ensures that both bright and dark areas in the frame are well-detailed.
• Color Reproduction: Colors are accurately reproduced, reducing the need for extensive color editing.
• Stabilization: The improved In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS) system helps minimize camera shake, resulting in steady shots even when holding the camera by hand.

Potential for Professional Use

With its impressive features, the OM-1 Mark II is definitely suitable for professional videography work. It offers several advantages that cater to the needs of both independent filmmakers and experienced industry professionals:

• Versatility: This camera can handle various types of shots, including fast-paced action sequences and intricate slow-motion scenes.
• Quality: The support for ProRes RAW and high frame rates ensures that the final output meets the highest standards of visual excellence.
• Ease of Use: Despite its advanced capabilities, the OM-1 Mark II remains user-friendly with its intuitive controls and responsive touchscreen.

The OM-1 Mark II isn't just a photographer's dream; it's a solid choice for videographers looking for reliability and versatility.

With its extensive video recording features, the OM-1 Mark II proves to be a flexible tool that can meet the diverse creative needs of professionals and enthusiasts alike.

6. Special Shooting Modes and Creative Features

Photography is more than just capturing moments—it's about doing so with style and creativity. The OM-1 Mark II is packed with unique features that unleash your creative potential.

Pro Capture Mode

Pro Capture mode is a game-changer for action photography. It starts buffering images the moment you half-press the shutter, ensuring you never miss the perfect shot. When fully pressed, it saves up to 14 frames before and up to 100 frames after the press. This feature is invaluable for fast-moving subjects like sports or wildlife photography.

Starry Sky AF

Astrophotographers rejoice! The Starry Sky AF mode brings pinpoint accuracy to night sky photography. Traditional autofocus systems struggle with low-light conditions, but this mode uses advanced algorithms to achieve precise focus on stars. No more fiddling around in manual focus—just set it and shoot.

Focus Stacking Mode

For macro enthusiasts, Focus Stacking mode is pure gold. This feature takes multiple shots at different focus points and combines them into one image with extended depth of field. Whether you're photographing tiny insects or intricate details of a flower, this mode ensures everything from foreground to background is in sharp focus.

Computational Photography Features

The OM-1 Mark II also excels in computational photography. Features like Live ND filter simulate long exposure effects without needing physical filters, perfect for smoothing out water or creating dynamic skies during daylight. The High Res Shot mode takes multiple images and stitches them together for ultra-high-resolution results, ideal for landscape and product photography.

These special shooting modes are not just gimmicks; they offer practical benefits that can significantly enhance your work:

1. Pro Capture mode ensures you catch fleeting moments.
2. Starry Sky AF simplifies astrophotography.
3. Focus Stacking mode elevates macro shots.
4. Live ND filter adds creative flair without extra gear.

These tools expand your creative horizons while maintaining ease of use, making the OM-1 Mark II a versatile companion for any photographer looking to push boundaries.

7. User Experience: Interface, Performance, and Battery Life

User Interface and Menu System

Navigating through the OM-1 Mark II's menu system feels easy. The layout is user-friendly, with a well-organized structure that makes finding settings simple. One notable feature is the Super Control Panel, which provides quick access to essential settings, saving you from diving deep into menus.

The OI.Share app further enhances the experience by allowing seamless smartphone connectivity. This app lets you transfer photos, control your camera remotely, and even update firmware—all from your phone. As someone who loves sharing shots on-the-go, this is a game-changer.

Performance and Responsiveness

The OM-1 Mark II performs exceptionally well:

• Startup Time: Incredibly quick, letting you catch those spontaneous moments without delay.
• Burst Shooting Speed: Impressive 50fps with continuous autofocus (C-AF) and 120fps with fixed autofocus (AF), ideal for action shots.
• Buffer Capacity: Thanks to its double buffer size, you can take up to 256 raw shots before the camera starts to slow down. Perfect for sports photographers or anyone capturing fast-moving subjects.

The touch-screen is responsive and allows for on-the-fly adjustments via the Super Control Panel. Whether you're tweaking focus points or changing settings mid-shoot, it's all smooth sailing.

Battery Life Endurance

Battery life can make or break a shooting session. The OM-1 Mark II holds its own with:

• 520 shots per CIPA standards
• 1100 shots using Quick Sleep power-saving mode

This means you can shoot all day without constantly worrying about recharging. For extended sessions, USB charging support ensures you can top up your battery quickly.

Power-saving options are also plentiful, allowing you to customize settings like screen dimming and sleep mode activation times—perfect for conserving battery during longer outings.

The combination of an ergonomic design, intuitive interface, robust performance, and solid battery life makes using the OM-1 Mark II a joy for any photographer.

8. Lens Compatibility and Recommendations

Native Lens Lineup

The OM-1 Mark II works best with M.Zuiko Digital lenses. These lenses are made specifically for this camera, ensuring the best performance and image quality. Some great options include:

• M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO: A versatile zoom lens perfect for everyday shooting.
• M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm f/2.8 PRO: Excellent for portraits and wildlife photography.
• M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-400mm f/4.5 PRO: Ideal for wildlife photographers who need reach

These lenses are known for being sharp, well-built, and reliable in different shooting conditions.

Third-Party Options

Don't forget about third-party lenses! Brands like Sigma and Tamron also make lenses that work with this camera:

• Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN: A great choice for low-light situations and portraits.
• Tamron 14-150mm f/3.5-5.8 Di III: Perfect if you're looking for an all-in-one travel lens.

These third-party options give you more choices without spending too much.

Recommendations by Photography Style

Using the right lens can make a big difference in your photos. Here are some recommendations based on different types of photography:

Landscape Photography

For wide scenic views, try the:

• M.Zuiko Digital ED 7-14mm f/2.8 PRO: Its wide-angle capabilities capture the grandeur of landscapes.

Portrait Photography

If you enjoy taking pictures of people, consider:

• M.Zuiko Digital ED 45mm f/1.2 PRO: This lens creates a soft background blur and has excellent clarity.

Wildlife Photography

When photographing animals, go for:

• M.Zuiko Digital ED 300mm f/4 IS PRO: Its long reach and image stabilization make it a top choice.

Street Photography

To capture the essence of city life, use:

• M.Zuiko Digital ED 17mm f/1.2 PRO: Compact and fast, perfect for capturing candid moments.

Whether you love landscapes or prefer street scenes, there's a lens that's perfect for your style of photography. The combination of native M.Zuiko Digital lenses and reliable third-party options gives you plenty of choices to explore your creativity.

9. Pros and Cons

The OM-1 Mark II camera has its strengths and weaknesses. Here's a breakdown of what it offers:

Pros

• Speed and Performance: The OM-1 Mark II features a 20MP Four Thirds Stacked BSI Live MOS sensor, allowing for ultra-high-speed continuous shooting at 120fps (fixed AF) and 50fps with continuous AF. This is perfect for capturing fast-paced action or wildlife moments.
• Advanced Autofocus System: With its 1,053-point AI detect Quad Pixel AF system, the camera excels in focusing on subjects quickly and accurately. It also comes with improved human and animal detection capabilities.
• Image Stabilization: Thanks to its in-body image stabilization (IBIS) technology, the OM-1 Mark II can compensate for camera shake and deliver sharp images even in low-light conditions. It offers up to 8.5EV stabilization with Sync IS.
• Weather Sealing: The camera is designed to withstand challenging environmental conditions with its IP53 rating, making it a reliable choice for outdoor photography.
• High-Resolution Viewfinder: Featuring a 5.76m-dot electronic viewfinder, the OM-1 Mark II provides a clear and detailed view of your composition. It also comes with anti-fogging coating and fast refresh rates for added convenience.

Cons

• Price Point: Priced at $2,400 / £2,199 for the body only, the OM-1 Mark II falls on the higher end of the price range for Micro Four Thirds cameras.
• Video Features Limitations: While it does support ProRes RAW externally and offers various video profiles like OM-Log400, the camera lacks a dedicated video/stills switch and has limited internal recording options. This may not be ideal for videographers looking for more versatility.
• Menu Navigation: Although the menu system has been improved, it still does not have a search function. This can make it time-consuming to locate specific settings.
• Battery Life: While the OM-1 Mark II has a decent battery life of 520 shots (CIPA standard), heavy users may need to carry extra batteries for longer shooting sessions.

By considering these pros and cons, you can determine whether the OM-1 Mark II is suitable for your photography needs.

Should You Invest in the OM-1 Mark II?

The OM-1 Mark II is a powerful camera that brings significant improvements, making it an attractive option for various types of photographers. Let’s see who might benefit most from this camera.

Who Should Buy the OM-1 Mark II?

Action and Wildlife Photographers

• Autofocus Capabilities: With 1,053-point AI detect Quad Pixel AF and improved human detection, capturing fast-moving subjects becomes easy.
• High-Speed Shooting: The ability to shoot at 50fps with continuous autofocus or 120fps with fixed focus is perfect for capturing those split-second moments.

Landscape and Travel Photographers

• Image Quality and Stabilization: The 20MP Four Thirds Stacked BSI Live MOS sensor combined with an impressive image stabilization system ensures sharp, high-quality images.
• Portability: Weighing just 599g and featuring a compact design, it’s easy to carry around on your adventures.

Videographers

• Video Features: Excellent video stabilization, support for ProRes RAW 4:4:4 12-bit with external devices, and multiple video profiles like OM-Log400 make it a solid choice for video projects.
• Resolution Options: Supports various resolutions and formats which are essential for professional video work.

If you're seeking a versatile camera that excels in speed, autofocus performance, and image quality, the OM-1 Mark II stands out as a strong contender. It’s particularly well-suited for action shooters, landscape enthusiasts, and videographers looking for reliable performance in a compact body.

With its innovative features and robust build quality, investing in the OM-1 Mark II could elevate your photography to new heights.

References

Reviews from Other Photographers

• Amateur Photographer's Joshua Waller praised the OM-1 Mark II for its incredible in-camera live Grad ND filter, highlighting how it simplifies shooting in challenging light conditions.
• Digital Photography Review noted the camera's improved buffer and IBIS, making it a solid choice for action photography.
• Photography Blog highlighted the quicker access to subject detection settings as a game-changer for wildlife photographers.

Notable Endorsements

Joshua Waller, a renowned photographer, gave glowing feedback on the OM-1 Mark II's performance. He specifically mentioned its exceptional autofocus capabilities and how it has become his go-to camera for both professional assignments and personal projects.

Expert Opinions

• TechRadar emphasized the camera's value, stating that its combination of features is unmatched in a compact body.
• Camera Jabber lauded the camera’s ergonomic design and found the menu system intuitive, especially for those familiar with previous OM models.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the OM-1 Mark II?

The OM-1 Mark II is the flagship camera from OM System, formerly known as Olympus. It represents a significant advancement in camera technology and offers improved features and capabilities.

What are the key highlights of the OM-1 Mark II review?

The key highlights of the review include an overview of the camera, its history and significance in the photography industry, as well as an examination of its key features and advancements.

What are the key features and advancements of the OM-1 Mark II?

The camera features rugged and water-resistant construction, durability, comfortable grip, advanced sensor technology, innovative autofocus capabilities, high-quality video recording features, special shooting modes, user-friendly interface, extensive lens compatibility, and various pros and cons.

How does the design, build quality, and ergonomics of the OM-1 Mark II contribute to its usability?

The camera's physical attributes such as rugged and water-resistant construction, durability, and comfortable grip contribute to its usability by ensuring it can withstand challenging conditions while providing a comfortable handling experience for users.

What is the sensor technology used in the OM-1 Mark II and how does it impact image quality performance?

The camera's sensor technology is thoroughly examined to evaluate its impact on image quality performance. Additionally, the effectiveness of the image stabilization system in reducing camera shake and improving sharpness is evaluated.

What are the unique video recording capabilities of the OM-1 Mark II?

The camera's video recording capabilities are examined with a focus on supported resolutions and formats. The overall video quality and potential for professional use are also evaluated.

Alpha Gear