Typical human weakness in regards of materialism. It gives a certain kind of the people a very bad feeling, when someone tells them that they're not running around with the best gear for that price tag and on top of that, the extra amount of money they invested, was basically wasted. So they fight to restore their "peace".
The faces of the folks you encounter on the street are so open and kind-looking I get a warm impression of the citizens of Kuala Lumpur. The way you get past people's guard and look into their hearts yields the best street photography on line. Love these photos!
Thanks Reverend, that is very kind of you. I think it is extremely important to treat people with respect, and when we do smile and be pleasant with other people, they will return and reflect the same expression!
I always enjoy your videos! About ten years ago, I purchased a Voightlander 25mm f0.95 and really liked some of the images I made with it. I bought it as much for the autofocus precision as for the large aperture, but at times it was also fun to have that wide aperture. But it was completely manual, didn't give me any information in the metadata, was really heavy and still not weather sealed. So eventually I got the 25mm f1.2 Pro lens. That's a great lens and I still use it. But earlier this year, I got the 25mm f1.8 lens and it has become the lens I tend to use most. I wanted it because it's smaller and less noticeable than the f1.2. Perhaps I'm a little crazy for buying three prime lenses at the same focal length, but each one has its own advantages. As another reviewer wrote, the f1.8 is the "perfect blend of size, speed and quality." If you can live without the weather sealing, it is surely the best value for the price. I love your images! Thank you for your work!
I own a Pen E-P7 and I have the 17mm f1.18 and the 25mm f1.8. I love the 25mm so much more that basically I never use the 17mm. Totally agree with your review and with the fact that it deserved to be weather sealed.
Thank you Robin! Exceptional, valuable perspectives! The Olympus 25mm F1.8 seems an overlooked lens and one I'll put on my watch list. The Olympus 25mm F1.8 like other Olympus Lenses does seem to have that neutral, honest rendering I've seen with their other MSC lenses that make them a good option for video and portraits. I'd be interested to see how the Olympus 25mm's rendering works for Color to B&W conversion, I have an early 4/3 Olympus 35mm f/3.5 Macro that is very neutral in terms of color and contrast and coverts well to B&W. Always good to see different photographers use different focal lengths for different scenes and perspectives, and it occurs that 25mm (50mm full-frame 35mm) is perhaps the best fit for your exceptional street portraits, and your images inspire me to use 25mm for street portraits and video interviews. I see other popular street 'story tellers' who do well with 35mm, and others who's style is imparting drama doing that with a wider perspective. Personally, for street story telling 20mm (40mm Full-frame) is my choice for that classic photo-journalistic look, but I do love how your images impart honesty Robin, something I love that that Malaysia imparts so well, as well. Some of us do appreciate truth and honesty over pandering, and why we respect you and what you share Robin. I lament hearing those who place personal insecurity over an honest opinion effected you in that manor. Cheers! Please keep the magic flowing!
Thanks for the kind words. The 25mm F1.8 was definitely part of the newer optics formula that was optimized for Micro Four Thirds - smaller in design yet delivering excellent image output. Maybe the reason why you think my images look more "honest" is due to my post-processing or lack of it. I do only very minimal editing to my images. A lot of street photographers become overly enthusiastic to recreate the "film simulation" look which looks so fake and over-processed and really, really unnatural.
One of my favourite lenses for Olympus m43 system. The 3d pop and great colour/contrast is very real! A super fast lens and love how small it is! It’s a shame you’re not longer making comparison videos, but I can understand the negativity that can come from it make it not worthwhile. I’m glad you enabled membership so us members can ask you directly! 😊
@@robinwongI dug up that review recently and it was so well written, unbiased, and obviously a lot of effort had been put into it. It convinced me to buy the Olympus one and I'm very satisfied. Thanks Robin, your hard work would not be unappreciated!
Yeah my favorite lens, it sold me on micro 4/3 system. I use it on my E-pl10 witch makes it a "dream-come-true" travel camera I am always stunned with the quality of my vacation pictures, not even taking into consideration the tiny size of this setup that doesn't take any space in my baggage and easy to carry all day.
At 8:10, what you relate Robin about the Olympus and Pen allowing you to be low-profile with a small, nimble and simple camera is essential advice from a street-wise photographer. Having been a "reporter", I quickly found being low-profile and non-threatening a HUGE advantage. I have a crude and rustic photography satchel a friend, an elderly 'Hippy' artist made for me from discarded leather scraps with a swatch of leather with a large photo leather photo transfer of Cherubs she placed on the cover that many people identify with and comment on. The Hippy bag gives the impression I'm an old hippy, artist or professor, rather than processional photographer, and people are much more up for an artistic portrait or even interview if they perceive me as an artist interested in them, rather than a 'grab and go' professional, something I expect you convey to get the remarkable people pictures you do Robin. Having a small camera helps put people at ease , I used a Canon S120 pocket camera for several events to get random video interviews people who would have been intimidated by larger camera or even mobile phone.
Yeah for street photography I definitely recommend using smaller setup - less intimidating and you can get to places easier when your camera does not look like it has an agenda!
I've taken countless images with this lens. It was the first prime I bought back when I got into M43. It's still one of my favorites even though I've changed to more of a 35mm equivalent. (17mm 1.8) I'll never get rid of the 25 though...so much value for the money. Thanks for sharing your vast knowledge with us. Cheers
The 25mm is just a different lens, while some would prefer wider field of view for different compositions, if you shoot 50mm (equivalent) that Olympus 25mm is just so awesome.
Feel free to make comparisons. Most of us appreciate your experience. It was thanks to your video comparing the Olympus 14-42mm pancake lens to the similar Panasonic 12-32, that I chose the Olympus lens for my GF6 and GX7 cameras. And I have never looked back.
Thanks for sharing. I used to have one and I was very happy with it. I see you've been shooting in the area where the sidewalks can collapse. Be careful out there😀
25 1.8 is a great lens , but my normal perspective is closer to 55 mm than 50 mm in full frame terms , hence the reason I chose 30mm for my walkabout lens with an aperture of 2.8 . I use the lens on the phone for 28mm field of view and 60 mm for portraits , as that was closer to my old 135 back in the film days . The kit zoom is okay if used with care and critical focus is kept to the centre of the lens . Robin , that was another great video and a reminder to those who may have forgot how sharp and quick the 25 1.8 is . Thanks again , Robin
@@robinwong it was one of the major benefits of switching to MFT after the reduction in size and weight of my other gear . Of course , the benefits are enormous and uses know them well enough , but those who have not picked one up or seen the glorious images they can make will be blown away , which is why your videos are just so fantastic Robin . Thinking back a few years it was you and then a few others convinced me to switch and I have not looked back . Thanks !
Great lens Robin! I use this lens for indoor flower photography. When I used Olympus 4/3 cameras (E-510, E-620) I loved using the Olympus 50mm f/2 lens. When I changed to MFT format, I bought the m.zuiko 25mm f/1.8 lens used and was pleased with its performance.
I love this lens too! I have the Q3, and honestly, this 25mm f/1.8 lens matches the Q3 in image quality at 50mm crop. Plus, the AWB and focusing speed on MFT are way better.
Every time I think I can't be bothered with street photography, I watch a Robin Wong video and the photographs in it, and want to get out there again. (Except this time I want to get out with a 25mm m.zuiko lens)
I follow and admire you for years. You re the type of pure photographer. Every video of yours is vital, emotional and up to the point. Great job Robin! (As for the lenses, well...with every respect, the Lumix Leica 25mm 1.4 is gorgeous and the dream lens for me. I also have to admitt i am a Panasonic guy as well... Rroud user of Lumix cameras since 2008! Never looked back)
No worries, you can choose and use whichever gear you like, and we all have our own preferences. I am just tired of making comparisons that people don't appreciate, and I certainly don't deserve getting burned for being honest.
I really love this 25mm and it is so good in general that it is glued to my EM5III almost all the time. The only time I switch to a different lens is when I need something a little bit wider or more versatile, that I decide to use the 17mm f1.8
Hi Robin! At first - I love Malaysia, I miss it! Second - I use this small lens with my Panasonic GM1 with really great pleasure. Thank you for this video and your respect to mft system. Good luck to you! Best wishes from Ukraine! 🇺🇦 Dmytro from Kharkiv.
The 25mm is indeed an outstanding lens. It’s not only ideal for all-purpose street photography, but it works wonderfully for nature, as I did just yesterday. The close focusing distance allows for beautiful images of flowers, fungi, and insects-even without being a ‘macro’ lens.
Great video, Robin. This was my first prime, after the 14-150 kit lens that came with my EM5mkiii. Always shot with my 55mm lens on my Canon A1 film camera. Love the focal length.
Thanks, you convinced me of buying the Olympus 25mm f1.8. I was thinking about the Lumix 25mm f1.7, but didn't know about the focus shift issue. I really love my Olympus 45mm f1.8 lens, also very small, light and sharp. The out of focus parts are rendered very nicely, better than the with my Fujifilm 56mm f1.2, just crazy when you consider the size difference.
Robin, I'm concidering either Leica 15mm or Loawa 6mm for my GH7. I already have Leica 9mm. I will eventually get both. Which one do you think i should get next? Thank you.
Today I got a used Olympus 12 mm f2. I fell in love with the quality of it in the photo shop. So two weeks later I bought this amazing lens. I'm so happy. So far I don't have the 25 mm f1.8. it will be my next kens I think. I hope Omds will release a weather resistant version with manual clutch to sell besides the 25 1.8 and also make weatherresist versions of the other small f1.8:s/f2:s. Two price levels and two audience levels. And think of how many new lenses OMDS would sell if they do.
To release a second line of the same lenses that are little more high end than the already good consumer line. To have the choice to go for the cheap plastic fantastic non weathersealed m.zuiko line or the weather sealed line (m.zuiko high grade) where the glas is kind of the same, but (maybe) better coatings, with more metal build, with focus clutch on them all. All upgraded with same mm filter thread (except the 75 1.8 of course). I would like to extend the high grade series with upgraded 60 mm macro and a new 200 mm prime, maybe like f3.5 or so. And if possible, that lens suitable for 1.4 and 2.0 converters. A third lens I would love to get in this series is a 10 mm f2. I have another thing I got in my head yesterday. I want from Olympus a better magnetic filter system than those on the market. I want the holders and the filters to have a system with both magnetic surface and treads. For example you can attach a threaded filter to another that has magnetic surface, and just click them on the magnetic holder. Or the "threaded" original lens cap to the holder, despite it's without magnet. Do you understand my idea? Maybe due to not affecting vignetting the system have to increase few mm in diameter. So för lenses with 46 mm thread, the holder has 49 mm (like old OM lenses) outer thread. Or why not have the magnet surface built in outside the lens filter thread, so the lens are sold ready for magnetic filters 😅❤. Am I crazy?
I used this a lot with my E-P3 for Street Photography and together, it produce some of my favorite photos. I now partnered it with the 12mm f2 as a two lens combo for Street. I used to own a used Pana-Leica 25mm f1.4 Ver. 1 and sold it because of the size even without the hood and it feels clunky for some reason. Noisy as well, I think I had a bad copy. Thanks for the video!
The Panasonic 25mm F1.4 is a much older lens, and the AF is indeed noisy, unlike the Olympus 25mm F1.8 that only uses a single moving glass element for AF operations which makes it faster and quieter. I should stop here before Panasonic fanboys come at me with their pitchforks.
@@robinwong hahaha! They both have compromises but are both really good in producing nice jpegs. I actually don't see the difference, and since I moved from GX8 and EM5 Mk II to GX80, PEN-F and E-P3 smaller bodies it just make sense to partner it with smaller lenses.
Its a lovely lens, but I see the world more through the 35mm, so its the 17mm F1.8 for me. Both are brilliant lenses, punching well above their asking prices. I was seriously considering the Panasonic Leica 15mm for a while, but its a lot of money for a little more coverage. I never even considered 35mm for decades until about twenty years ago, I bought my used Leica M6 and it came with a 35mm F1.4 Summilux ASPH. I was hooked from then on. That lens has magic in it, be in no doubt.
The used price for Panasonic 15mm is about the same as the Olympus 17mm (maybe a bit higher) but I do prefer using the Panasonic 15mm more than the Olympus 17mm, and I have discussed this in another video, feel free to look it up.
Hi Robin, greetings from Indonesia. I like my 25mm too. Even, I have to sold my 17mm and bought Lumix 20mm f1.7. But the Lumix 20mm cannot convinced me to change my mind and my daily beater lens. The 25mm still superior lens compare to 20mm. It doesn't mean the 20mm is a bad lens, they're great on their own.
Robin hi. My question is about the L-Fn button on the 12-40 Pro lens. Does it consist of two parts? Rubber seal and rubber button? Or is it one rubber seal along with the button? I thought the button would be hard plastic. In this way, it is possible to damage it when taking photos of arrowroot roses or in bushes. It probably doesn't happen that often, but it still annoys me that the button isn't hardened plastic. If you know any information on this topic, I will be grateful. Thank you. PM
I used both Panasonic 25mm prime lenses with my G9. Images at f/4 -f/8 were not nearly as sharp as those taken with the excellent LUMIX 12-35mm f/2.8 set at 25mm. I thought that I was doing something wrong but got rid of both lenses. It’s nice to know that you have found similar results and I have ordered the Olympus 25mm f/1.8. Thank you.
Thx Robin. I bought a 15mm f1.7 for my g100d instead of a cheaper 14mm and was tempted to get the PL 25mm to go all Leica. I did test and oly 25mm on the g100d when I was getting it though and was pleased with it's small size and may go with this now instead of the bigger PL 25mm if image quality is similar,as well as saving myself some money😅😅
It's a great lens! Both my wife and I have one and even though I thought about the f/1.2 I ended up staying with the f/1.8 - so small and light and goes well with any m43 body I throw at it.
I agree, it's a terrific lens. However I prefer something just a touch longer so I use a Sigma 30mm f1.8 on my original EM5. They make a beautifully balanced pairing. Top vid, thanks Robin.
Hi Robin, I fully agree with what you said about the film simulations of Fujifilm cameras. It is not the job of a camera to provide tools to destroy an image. The strength of Fujifilm in many of their cameras is the brilliant display and the fantastic quality of jpgs just out if the camera. I reduce sharpness and contrast by two stops in the menu and am very happy with the result. But: Imagine if Fujifilm said goodbye to film simulation, then an entire control dial would become superfluous on the X-S20!
Going video, Robin. Very informative. I bought the OM lens largely on the strength of your reviews and am very happy with it (cannot compare to the Lumix). Ignore the haters. They are like traffic noise. Ultimately of no consequence. I have my own opinions and preconceived notions, but I always like a supporting _or_ differing opinion. I guess that's the Engineering Way!
Thanks Gregory, appreciate that. I am perfectly fine with different opinions and criticisms. Some people just come and throwing spears and stones without any good reason. I am just tired of dealing with such unnecessary dramas.
@@robinwong when the noise bubbles up to your attention and drains your energy, take a break! I know you know how to do that, and it sets a good example for all of us. Your trips to Kuching remind me that I need to take a break and get away - from retirement!
It's one of my fav lenses, I swich between this and the 12-35 f2.8 panny for everyday. I will add that if you ney say any Robin words in the comments, he will find you, and then leave an argumentative message and not come back to finish the conversation lol.
strange - my leica 25mm 1.4 mk2 is already crispy at the edges from open aperture at 1.4, none of my olympus pro lenses can do that - and i love my olympus pro lenses - maybe I just got a very good one
The 25mm f1.8 was my first mFT lens. I bought a 25mm f1.4 PL with the thought it would replace the f1.8. The f1.4 is a nice lens, but not significantly better (if at all) than the f1.8, plus the f1.8 is smaller, lighter, focus's closer and the lens hood reverse attaches. I sold the f1.4
Just picked one up for my E-P7. Works on my OM-1 very nicely too but looks quite odd given it’s so small! I already have the 45 f1.8 which is also stunning for something the size of an egg! I do wish OMDS would expand their range of f1.4 PRO lenses though as I think they offer a perfect balance of weight, size, performance, and usefully, weather sealing.
Olympus 25 mm 1.8 is great. Took a lot of great photos and 25mm is my focal length on M43. But, I have just traded it for PL 25 1.4 II. I have always wanted to test PL one. I will see if i will go back...
I was shopping for this lens a few years ago but I ended up buying the Panasonic Lumix 25mm f1.7 instead because it was on sale and the Olympus 25mm f1.8 costed almost three times the sale price of the Lumix lens. I have been using the Lumix 25mm f1.7 on my OMD E-M5 Mk I and the E-M10 Mk I, and I have never encountered the focus-shift problem that Robin experienced. This Lumix lens I that I have performs remarkably well. I would like to own the Olympus version of this but the current prices are hard to justify, even in the used market.
I was not the only one encountering the focus shift issue on Panasonic 25mm F1.7, it is a known problem (just do a quick online search), and a manufacturing defect on the lens, which I wish Panasonic would acknowledge and fix. Other prominent photographers like Matti Sulanto has also reported the issue.
Oh my goodness I love the Olympus 25mm 1.8. Its so fast and so much better still lighter then the Pana 25mm 1.7. I have both the Olympus and the Panasonic and the Olympus is sooo much better that I'll sell the Panasonic. Thanks for sharing Robin
hey Robin, long time watcher here! About 2 years ago, i was tryna get into the m43 system, but some demonic forces make me buy an xt200 with a kit lens. After two year with xt200, i wanted to switch back to m43 with the budget of around 500 bucks. would love to hear you suggestions on an m43 combo that fit the budget (me student broke 😢 )
Oh man. Talk about timing! Taking a 25mm 1.7 Lumix to London with me tomorrow. I'm in no way a photographer, it will be to capture the moments with my sons and maybe some snaps of the city. I was between taking a couple of lenses but this cements by decision to just take the one!
What I like the most: the 25 (ekv 50mm) doesn't give anything to your pictures. no 'zooming', no wide view. Everything seems if like you'd see it. Thats why magic stays is in your hand. Only creativity, speed, skill matters. Beside this 25 1.8 is technically superb, lightweight and very reliable.
Hello Robin, as always a valuable review with great images. Thanks for sharing them. I also think the M.Zuiko 25mm 1.8 is a little gem of a lens. And don't listen to us when we don't agree with you, because going against the current has merit 😂
This lens is on my wish list. The only problem I have is, I have always used a zoom for the last 30 odd years and find it difficult to get my head around a prime lens other than 90mm macro which is on another level. I do have the 12mm f2 and the 17mm f1.8 which I don't use much. I have the feeling I need to get out more with just one lens and get over it (learn the hard way).
wow thanks for the video. been really thinking about this lens. I'm in between the 25mm f1.8 or the f2.8 pancake to complement the 12mm f2 that I currently have.
I have the Pana 20mm 1.7 currently. It’s sharp and I like the pancake form factor, but the autofocus is horrible. Normally I am a 50mm shooter. So I am considering this Olympus 25 as a replacement, to the cost of a bit longer shape if I get it.
I switched to the Olympus 25mm soon after using the Panasonic 20mm for the exact same reason. Definitely feels like a big upgrade. The size difference is very small as the Olympus lens has a much smaller radius but sticks out more than the Panasonic. 100% recommend
Yeah I just cannot stand the slow AF on the Panasonic 20mm, but then again, that is a much older lens. I wish Panasonic updates the lens with new AF mechanism.
Hey Robin, coincidentally I just bought this lens last week to replace the 12-40 pro lens which was starting to get old. The focus speed is amazing on the em1 mk2 body, the sharpness of the widest aperture is also very good. No regrets about buying it, in fact very satisfied even though it is in used condition. For portrait photography needs, is the Olympus 45mm f1.8 still recommended for the price? Or are there other more attractive options at identical prices? Thank you, greetings from Indonesia
All I can say is that the 45 f1.8 is a phantastic lens for portraits. Very sharp, wonderful bokeh. You should be able to get a used one for about 150USD. Maybe you should check out the Sigma 56mm f1.4. Incredible sharpness, great bokeh. Pricetag should be about 400USD. If I didn't have the Oly 45 I would certainly go for this one!
@@donjoe6326 Totally agree, I even tried it when I bought an Olympus 25mm last week. When the sunlight is bright, CA is not visible at all, even at the largest aperture of f1.4. Very sharp results, and excellent contrast. Maybe it would be the first choice if the budget is ready, the second alternative I would take the Olympus 45mm
I saw a meme a while back and caption was something like "I buy an expensive gadget, then watch videos to validate my purchase." Which is certainly true for me 😅. I personally like comparison videos and find them helpful, even if my lens is the one that is "bad."
I find it very difficult to shoot with prime lenses. I am a more zoom-lens guy. I have the 20 mm F/1.4 and struggle everytime shooting with it (although it is a good lens). I like your photos and your enthusiasm about this lens.
No worries, if zoom lens works better for you, go for it. Prime lenses will push you to work harder, hence most of the time you will get better images at the end.
Compared to FF I agree there is a massive advantage but I don't think its "much" smaller than the APSC equivalents. The size and weight differences are minimal, and in practice non-existent, compared to mirrorless APSC primes. For example you are only getting a size saving of 3mm (42mm v.s. 45mm) and a grand weight saving of 17g compared to the sony 35mm f1.8 on APSC. And that's comparing a non-stablised lens (Olympus) to a stablised lens (Sony), the advantage would likely be even less if it was like for like. That's a very minor difference given how much you give up in terms of the crop factor at f1.8 between m43 and APSC. You can go even more compact and lighter with a f2.8 prime on APSC which having the same FF equivalent crop factor (although that's only for depth of field/bokeh and not low light performance). Sony's Zeiss Branded 35mm f2.8 is 6mm shorter and 7g lighter than the Olympus - and that's a FF lens (although it makes a great compact APSC Nifty Fifty equivalent). The Samyang 35mm f2.8 is a full 1cm shorter and more than 50g lighter than the Olympus. Mirrorless has really closed the gap between m43 and APSC in terms of portability to a point where the physical distance you need between elements in the lens array prevents m43 from having a real advantage outside of very long telephoto lenses.
It's just a fact that the Olympus 1.8 lenses call punch way above their weight when it comes to performance for value. I only have the 17 1.8 right now.. but every micro four-thirds shooter I know who has this lens feels that it is an indispensable part of their kit. I do wonder if the Lumix 25 1.4 needs to be paired with a Lumix body and it's built in firmware to be at it's best because I've taken some of my favorite shots on a GX-8 or G9 with that lens, but you are not the only OM shooter to point out the the chromatic aberration for the Pana-Leica Leica..
I was not complaining about chromatic aberration, the Olympus 25mm is just a better performer - overall sharper wide open, better corner to corner sharpness, better contrast, better close up shooting (minimum focusing distance), better flare resistance, just better everything!
I always liked this lens but never bought it because I have the cheaper Lumix 25 f1.7 lens. No, I never found a problem with it. It is an excellent lens. About plastic, I like my Lumix for the plastic! It is so light. But I just got the Pergear 25mm f1.7 MF, it is small and fun.
Because too many people have encountered the focus shift issue (myself and Matti Sulanto included), it is difficult to recommend a lens that has a known manufacturing defect.
@@robinwong I am not doubting you Robin! I am just saying I have had a different experience. In any case, to me the Oly 25 is the better lens just because of the size.
@@robinwong you're the best and the nicest person. Like other RUclipsrs making gear buying live, etc. and I'm not interested in the "G.A.S." I rather talk about photography and technical aspects and your live show about photography is the best for me, I love the: "Let's do this"!👍💯🤟❤️😊
7:43 Don’t acquiesce to the haters, Robin! Side-by-sides are very helpful!
Agreed!
Typical human weakness in regards of materialism. It gives a certain kind of the people a very bad feeling, when someone tells them that they're not running around with the best gear for that price tag and on top of that, the extra amount of money they invested, was basically wasted. So they fight to restore their "peace".
The faces of the folks you encounter on the street are so open and kind-looking I get a warm impression of the citizens of Kuala Lumpur. The way you get past people's guard and look into their hearts yields the best street photography on line. Love these photos!
Thanks Reverend, that is very kind of you. I think it is extremely important to treat people with respect, and when we do smile and be pleasant with other people, they will return and reflect the same expression!
What you describe for the most part my recollection of most Malaysians.
I always enjoy your videos! About ten years ago, I purchased a Voightlander 25mm f0.95 and really liked some of the images I made with it. I bought it as much for the autofocus precision as for the large aperture, but at times it was also fun to have that wide aperture. But it was completely manual, didn't give me any information in the metadata, was really heavy and still not weather sealed. So eventually I got the 25mm f1.2 Pro lens. That's a great lens and I still use it. But earlier this year, I got the 25mm f1.8 lens and it has become the lens I tend to use most. I wanted it because it's smaller and less noticeable than the f1.2. Perhaps I'm a little crazy for buying three prime lenses at the same focal length, but each one has its own advantages. As another reviewer wrote, the f1.8 is the "perfect blend of size, speed and quality." If you can live without the weather sealing, it is surely the best value for the price. I love your images! Thank you for your work!
You are lucky to have such a colorful country.
Indeed I am
I own a Pen E-P7 and I have the 17mm f1.18 and the 25mm f1.8. I love the 25mm so much more that basically I never use the 17mm. Totally agree with your review and with the fact that it deserved to be weather sealed.
Thanks, I too, love the 25mm more than the 17mm.
Thank you Robin! Exceptional, valuable perspectives! The Olympus 25mm F1.8 seems an overlooked lens and one I'll put on my watch list. The Olympus 25mm F1.8 like other Olympus Lenses does seem to have that neutral, honest rendering I've seen with their other MSC lenses that make them a good option for video and portraits.
I'd be interested to see how the Olympus 25mm's rendering works for Color to B&W conversion, I have an early 4/3 Olympus 35mm f/3.5 Macro that is very neutral in terms of color and contrast and coverts well to B&W.
Always good to see different photographers use different focal lengths for different scenes and perspectives, and it occurs that 25mm (50mm full-frame 35mm) is perhaps the best fit for your exceptional street portraits, and your images inspire me to use 25mm for street portraits and video interviews.
I see other popular street 'story tellers' who do well with 35mm, and others who's style is imparting drama doing that with a wider perspective. Personally, for street story telling 20mm (40mm Full-frame) is my choice for that classic photo-journalistic look, but I do love how your images impart honesty Robin, something I love that that Malaysia imparts so well, as well.
Some of us do appreciate truth and honesty over pandering, and why we respect you and what you share Robin. I lament hearing those who place personal insecurity over an honest opinion effected you in that manor.
Cheers! Please keep the magic flowing!
Thanks for the kind words. The 25mm F1.8 was definitely part of the newer optics formula that was optimized for Micro Four Thirds - smaller in design yet delivering excellent image output.
Maybe the reason why you think my images look more "honest" is due to my post-processing or lack of it. I do only very minimal editing to my images. A lot of street photographers become overly enthusiastic to recreate the "film simulation" look which looks so fake and over-processed and really, really unnatural.
One of my favourite lenses for Olympus m43 system. The 3d pop and great colour/contrast is very real! A super fast lens and love how small it is! It’s a shame you’re not longer making comparison videos, but I can understand the negativity that can come from it make it not worthwhile. I’m glad you enabled membership so us members can ask you directly! 😊
Yeah not worth doing comparisons honestly, people just want to hear what they want to hear.
Yes, the 3D pop.
@@robinwongI dug up that review recently and it was so well written, unbiased, and obviously a lot of effort had been put into it. It convinced me to buy the Olympus one and I'm very satisfied. Thanks Robin, your hard work would not be unappreciated!
I haven’t taken this lens out for a while, but you inspire me to now. Thank you!
Please do bring it out for a spin!
Yeah my favorite lens, it sold me on micro 4/3 system. I use it on my E-pl10 witch makes it a "dream-come-true" travel camera I am always stunned with the quality of my vacation pictures, not even taking into consideration the tiny size of this setup that doesn't take any space in my baggage and easy to carry all day.
At 8:10, what you relate Robin about the Olympus and Pen allowing you to be low-profile with a small, nimble and simple camera is essential advice from a street-wise photographer. Having been a "reporter", I quickly found being low-profile and non-threatening a HUGE advantage.
I have a crude and rustic photography satchel a friend, an elderly 'Hippy' artist made for me from discarded leather scraps with a swatch of leather with a large photo leather photo transfer of Cherubs she placed on the cover that many people identify with and comment on. The Hippy bag gives the impression I'm an old hippy, artist or professor, rather than processional photographer, and people are much more up for an artistic portrait or even interview if they perceive me as an artist interested in them, rather than a 'grab and go' professional, something I expect you convey to get the remarkable people pictures you do Robin.
Having a small camera helps put people at ease , I used a Canon S120 pocket camera for several events to get random video interviews people who would have been intimidated by larger camera or even mobile phone.
Yeah for street photography I definitely recommend using smaller setup - less intimidating and you can get to places easier when your camera does not look like it has an agenda!
@@robinwongOr, going in with a professional crew can be another effective option.
I've taken countless images with this lens. It was the first prime I bought back when I got into M43. It's still one of my favorites even though I've changed to more of a 35mm equivalent. (17mm 1.8) I'll never get rid of the 25 though...so much value for the money. Thanks for sharing your vast knowledge with us. Cheers
The 25mm is just a different lens, while some would prefer wider field of view for different compositions, if you shoot 50mm (equivalent) that Olympus 25mm is just so awesome.
Feel free to make comparisons. Most of us appreciate your experience. It was thanks to your video comparing the Olympus 14-42mm pancake lens to the similar Panasonic 12-32, that I chose the Olympus lens for my GF6 and GX7 cameras. And I have never looked back.
Thanks for sharing. I used to have one and I was very happy with it. I see you've been shooting in the area where the sidewalks can collapse. Be careful out there😀
We just have to be extra careful next time.
25 1.8 is a great lens , but my normal perspective is closer to 55 mm than 50 mm in full frame terms , hence the reason I chose 30mm for my walkabout lens with an aperture of 2.8 . I use the lens on the phone for 28mm field of view and 60 mm for portraits , as that was closer to my old 135 back in the film days . The kit zoom is okay if used with care and critical focus is kept to the centre of the lens .
Robin , that was another great video and a reminder to those who may have forgot how sharp and quick the 25 1.8 is .
Thanks again , Robin
No worries, glad I can share. We are not short of awesome Micro Four Thirds lenses these days.
@@robinwong it was one of the major benefits of switching to MFT after the reduction in size and weight of my other gear . Of course , the benefits are enormous and uses know them well enough , but those who have not picked one up or seen the glorious images they can make will be blown away , which is why your videos are just so fantastic Robin . Thinking back a few years it was you and then a few others convinced me to switch and I have not looked back . Thanks !
One of my favorite zuiko lenses - super small and it always delivers!
Great lens Robin! I use this lens for indoor flower photography. When I used Olympus 4/3 cameras (E-510, E-620) I loved using the Olympus 50mm f/2 lens. When I changed to MFT format, I bought the m.zuiko 25mm f/1.8 lens used and was pleased with its performance.
Definitely the lens with the most “pop” that I’ve come across. Perfect blend of size, speed and quality
We want such comparisons Robin! Thank you for your great content all these years.
Thanks. I just cannot bear so much grief again.
@@robinwong I can totally understand. You can’t please all viewers with the results. But they will always find something else to charge/hit you.
My fav lens by far for street,light and sharp.Great for handheld long exposures👌🏼
There is just something so fun using such a tiny lens.
Olympus premium lens series is my favorite, amazing result everytime.
I love this lens too! I have the Q3, and honestly, this 25mm f/1.8 lens matches the Q3 in image quality at 50mm crop. Plus, the AWB and focusing speed on MFT are way better.
Love the lens, the first MFT prime I bought. Only just beaten by the 45mm f1.8 but a more practical focal length.
I'd day both are different lenses, and they excel at what they both do.
Every time I think I can't be bothered with street photography, I watch a Robin Wong video and the photographs in it, and want to get out there again.
(Except this time I want to get out with a 25mm m.zuiko lens)
I follow and admire you for years. You re the type of pure photographer. Every video of yours is vital, emotional and up to the point. Great job Robin!
(As for the lenses, well...with every respect, the Lumix Leica 25mm 1.4 is gorgeous and the dream lens for me. I also have to admitt i am a Panasonic guy as well... Rroud user of Lumix cameras since 2008! Never looked back)
No worries, you can choose and use whichever gear you like, and we all have our own preferences. I am just tired of making comparisons that people don't appreciate, and I certainly don't deserve getting burned for being honest.
I really love this 25mm and it is so good in general that it is glued to my EM5III almost all the time. The only time I switch to a different lens is when I need something a little bit wider or more versatile, that I decide to use the 17mm f1.8
Glad that you also love the 25mm F1.8, such a gem!
Hi Robin!
At first - I love Malaysia, I miss it!
Second - I use this small lens with my Panasonic GM1 with really great pleasure.
Thank you for this video and your respect to mft system.
Good luck to you!
Best wishes from Ukraine! 🇺🇦
Dmytro from Kharkiv.
Oh yes I use the Olympus 25mm F1.8 a lot on the GM1 too!
The 25mm is indeed an outstanding lens. It’s not only ideal for all-purpose street photography, but it works wonderfully for nature, as I did just yesterday. The close focusing distance allows for beautiful images of flowers, fungi, and insects-even without being a ‘macro’ lens.
Certainly, it is also a good general purpose lens.
Works fine on Lumix cameras too!
As I have proven in my set of images.
Great video, Robin. This was my first prime, after the 14-150 kit lens that came with my EM5mkiii. Always shot with my 55mm lens on my Canon A1 film camera. Love the focal length.
Yes, the focal length just works so well for street photography
Thanks, you convinced me of buying the Olympus 25mm f1.8. I was thinking about the Lumix 25mm f1.7, but didn't know about the focus shift issue. I really love my Olympus 45mm f1.8 lens, also very small, light and sharp. The out of focus parts are rendered very nicely, better than the with my Fujifilm 56mm f1.2, just crazy when you consider the size difference.
Bokeh is an art, and somehow, Olympus lenses produces really beautiful bokeh!
Robin, I'm concidering either Leica 15mm or Loawa 6mm for my GH7. I already have Leica 9mm. I will eventually get both. Which one do you think i should get next? Thank you.
Amazing portraits, as usual.
Thanks, appreciate that
Today I got a used Olympus 12 mm f2. I fell in love with the quality of it in the photo shop. So two weeks later I bought this amazing lens. I'm so happy. So far I don't have the 25 mm f1.8. it will be my next kens I think.
I hope Omds will release a weather resistant version with manual clutch to sell besides the 25 1.8 and also make weatherresist versions of the other small f1.8:s/f2:s. Two price levels and two audience levels.
And think of how many new lenses OMDS would sell if they do.
I agree. Makes no sense they have not updated the 12mm and 25mm primes with weather-sealing.
To release a second line of the same lenses that are little more high end than the already good consumer line. To have the choice to go for the cheap plastic fantastic non weathersealed m.zuiko line or the weather sealed line (m.zuiko high grade) where the glas is kind of the same, but (maybe) better coatings, with more metal build, with focus clutch on them all. All upgraded with same mm filter thread (except the 75 1.8 of course). I would like to extend the high grade series with upgraded 60 mm macro and a new 200 mm prime, maybe like f3.5 or so. And if possible, that lens suitable for 1.4 and 2.0 converters. A third lens I would love to get in this series is a 10 mm f2.
I have another thing I got in my head yesterday. I want from Olympus a better magnetic filter system than those on the market. I want the holders and the filters to have a system with both magnetic surface and treads. For example you can attach a threaded filter to another that has magnetic surface, and just click them on the magnetic holder. Or the "threaded" original lens cap to the holder, despite it's without magnet. Do you understand my idea? Maybe due to not affecting vignetting the system have to increase few mm in diameter. So för lenses with 46 mm thread, the holder has 49 mm (like old OM lenses) outer thread. Or why not have the magnet surface built in outside the lens filter thread, so the lens are sold ready for magnetic filters 😅❤. Am I crazy?
I used this a lot with my E-P3 for Street Photography and together, it produce some of my favorite photos. I now partnered it with the 12mm f2 as a two lens combo for Street. I used to own a used Pana-Leica 25mm f1.4 Ver. 1 and sold it because of the size even without the hood and it feels clunky for some reason. Noisy as well, I think I had a bad copy. Thanks for the video!
The Panasonic 25mm F1.4 is a much older lens, and the AF is indeed noisy, unlike the Olympus 25mm F1.8 that only uses a single moving glass element for AF operations which makes it faster and quieter. I should stop here before Panasonic fanboys come at me with their pitchforks.
@@robinwong hahaha! They both have compromises but are both really good in producing nice jpegs. I actually don't see the difference, and since I moved from GX8 and EM5 Mk II to GX80, PEN-F and E-P3 smaller bodies it just make sense to partner it with smaller lenses.
Its a lovely lens, but I see the world more through the 35mm, so its the 17mm F1.8 for me. Both are brilliant lenses, punching well above their asking prices. I was seriously considering the Panasonic Leica 15mm for a while, but its a lot of money for a little more coverage. I never even considered 35mm for decades until about twenty years ago, I bought my used Leica M6 and it came with a 35mm F1.4 Summilux ASPH. I was hooked from then on. That lens has magic in it, be in no doubt.
The used price for Panasonic 15mm is about the same as the Olympus 17mm (maybe a bit higher) but I do prefer using the Panasonic 15mm more than the Olympus 17mm, and I have discussed this in another video, feel free to look it up.
Hi Robin, greetings from Indonesia.
I like my 25mm too. Even, I have to sold my 17mm and bought Lumix 20mm f1.7. But the Lumix 20mm cannot convinced me to change my mind and my daily beater lens. The 25mm still superior lens compare to 20mm. It doesn't mean the 20mm is a bad lens, they're great on their own.
I love the 25mm f1.8, been using it for 6 years now. TTartisan 17mm is fast but only manual focus,
I love this lens too. I also keep it on my ep5 and it is one of the most reliable af lens i own. Great video as always
Thanks! And yes, the 25mm is indeed a reliable lens.
One of my favorite M43 lenses.
Likewise
Robin hi.
My question is about the L-Fn button on the 12-40 Pro lens. Does it consist of two parts? Rubber seal and rubber button? Or is it one rubber seal along with the button? I thought the button would be hard plastic. In this way, it is possible to damage it when taking photos of arrowroot roses or in bushes. It probably doesn't happen that often, but it still annoys me that the button isn't hardened plastic. If you know any information on this topic, I will be grateful. Thank you. PM
I used both Panasonic 25mm prime lenses with my G9. Images at f/4 -f/8 were not nearly as sharp as those taken with the excellent LUMIX 12-35mm f/2.8 set at 25mm. I thought that I was doing something wrong but got rid of both lenses. It’s nice to know that you have found similar results and I have ordered the Olympus 25mm f/1.8. Thank you.
Thx Robin. I bought a 15mm f1.7 for my g100d instead of a cheaper 14mm and was tempted to get the PL 25mm to go all Leica. I did test and oly 25mm on the g100d when I was getting it though and was pleased with it's small size and may go with this now instead of the bigger PL 25mm if image quality is similar,as well as saving myself some money😅😅
Hi Robin, thanks for sharing your thoughts and stunning pictures with this Olympus lens. Not bad for
a Ten Year old lens. Thanks Robin 😊.
Thanks for the kind words, and yes the lens is still a great lens today
@@robinwong Your welcome Robin thank you ☺️
It's a great lens! Both my wife and I have one and even though I thought about the f/1.2 I ended up staying with the f/1.8 - so small and light and goes well with any m43 body I throw at it.
Yeap, even with the F1.2, the F1.8 version is still worth keeping around just for the compact size.
Thank you, Robin, for helping us all get the most for our money! I don’t have this lens, but that may have to change.
Ed
Thanks Ed, and yes such an awesome lens.
I agree, it's a terrific lens. However I prefer something just a touch longer so I use a Sigma 30mm f1.8 on my original EM5. They make a beautifully balanced pairing. Top vid, thanks Robin.
Hi Robin, I fully agree with what you said about the film simulations of Fujifilm cameras. It is not the job of a camera to provide tools to destroy an image. The strength of Fujifilm in many of their cameras is the brilliant display and the fantastic quality of jpgs just out if the camera. I reduce sharpness and contrast by two stops in the menu and am very happy with the result. But: Imagine if Fujifilm said goodbye to film simulation, then an entire control dial would become superfluous on the X-S20!
Going video, Robin. Very informative. I bought the OM lens largely on the strength of your reviews and am very happy with it (cannot compare to the Lumix).
Ignore the haters. They are like traffic noise. Ultimately of no consequence. I have my own opinions and preconceived notions, but I always like a supporting _or_ differing opinion. I guess that's the Engineering Way!
Thanks Gregory, appreciate that. I am perfectly fine with different opinions and criticisms. Some people just come and throwing spears and stones without any good reason. I am just tired of dealing with such unnecessary dramas.
@@robinwong when the noise bubbles up to your attention and drains your energy, take a break! I know you know how to do that, and it sets a good example for all of us. Your trips to Kuching remind me that I need to take a break and get away - from retirement!
It's one of my fav lenses, I swich between this and the 12-35 f2.8 panny for everyday. I will add that if you ney say any Robin words in the comments, he will find you, and then leave an argumentative message and not come back to finish the conversation lol.
strange - my leica 25mm 1.4 mk2 is already crispy at the edges from open aperture at 1.4, none of my olympus pro lenses can do that - and i love my olympus pro lenses - maybe I just got a very good one
The 25mm f1.8 was my first mFT lens. I bought a 25mm f1.4 PL with the thought it would replace the f1.8. The f1.4 is a nice lens, but not significantly better (if at all) than the f1.8, plus the f1.8 is smaller, lighter, focus's closer and the lens hood reverse attaches. I sold the f1.4
My findings exactly. I almost got burned alive for saying those things, with hard evidence.
Excellent video 😮!
Just picked one up for my E-P7. Works on my OM-1 very nicely too but looks quite odd given it’s so small! I already have the 45 f1.8 which is also stunning for something the size of an egg!
I do wish OMDS would expand their range of f1.4 PRO lenses though as I think they offer a perfect balance of weight, size, performance, and usefully, weather sealing.
Indeed, they can look into making F1.4 primes, that can open up a new flow of income for them.
Thank you Robin .
Cheers
Olympus 25 mm 1.8 is great. Took a lot of great photos and 25mm is my focal length on M43. But, I have just traded it for PL 25 1.4 II. I have always wanted to test PL one. I will see if i will go back...
Hope you like the lens!
Thanks i use pany leica 25mm F1.4 ta
Awesome
Just a shout out my Lumix 25/1.7 on my EM10ii works beautifully at all stops. I’m happy to report no focus shifting on my system.
Good for you. I have had so many friends who had the issue, and I also encountered it myself.
Danke!
Thanks so much!
All of the Olympus budget primes are very good but when it comes to the 25mm & 17mm I compromise with the Panasonic 20mm. It really works for me.
The Panasonic 20mm F1.7 is just too slow for me (it is a much older lens). I wish Panasonic updated the AF.
what do you think about the lens Olympus OM-System Zuiko MC Auto-W 1:2.8 f=28mm.
I was shopping for this lens a few years ago but I ended up buying the Panasonic Lumix 25mm f1.7 instead because it was on sale and the Olympus 25mm f1.8 costed almost three times the sale price of the Lumix lens. I have been using the Lumix 25mm f1.7 on my OMD E-M5 Mk I and the E-M10 Mk I, and I have never encountered the focus-shift problem that Robin experienced. This Lumix lens I that I have performs remarkably well. I would like to own the Olympus version of this but the current prices are hard to justify, even in the used market.
I was not the only one encountering the focus shift issue on Panasonic 25mm F1.7, it is a known problem (just do a quick online search), and a manufacturing defect on the lens, which I wish Panasonic would acknowledge and fix. Other prominent photographers like Matti Sulanto has also reported the issue.
Oh my goodness I love the Olympus 25mm 1.8. Its so fast and so much better still lighter then the Pana 25mm 1.7. I have both the Olympus and the Panasonic and the Olympus is sooo much better that I'll sell the Panasonic. Thanks for sharing Robin
Yeah, it is incredible how Olympus managed to make the lens so small, yet delivering such great results.
I am lloking for a m43 camera and am between the ep5 and epl7. Which one would you choose ?
have the lens,happy with it
Likewise
hey Robin, long time watcher here! About 2 years ago, i was tryna get into the m43 system, but some demonic forces make me buy an xt200 with a kit lens. After two year with xt200, i wanted to switch back to m43 with the budget of around 500 bucks. would love to hear you suggestions on an m43 combo that fit the budget (me student broke 😢 )
These look just like the images that originally made you famous :) Something about the original EM5/EM1 and 1.8 lenses still rule in the right hands.
My earlier images that got noticed by Olympus Japan, and all the online forums were insect macro images! Street photography came much later
Oh man. Talk about timing! Taking a 25mm 1.7 Lumix to London with me tomorrow. I'm in no way a photographer, it will be to capture the moments with my sons and maybe some snaps of the city. I was between taking a couple of lenses but this cements by decision to just take the one!
Go and create some memories, capture them too!
At about 7:20, Robin comes as close to "rant mode" as I've ever seen 😂 No more comparisons!!
Oly to oly does work well and vice Versa on lumix bodies and lenses?
What I like the most: the 25 (ekv 50mm) doesn't give anything to your pictures. no 'zooming', no wide view. Everything seems if like you'd see it. Thats why magic stays is in your hand. Only creativity, speed, skill matters. Beside this 25 1.8 is technically superb, lightweight and very reliable.
I sold most of my M43 gear but kept this lens and an E-PL10 for street photography. Wish it had a MF clutch, but other than that it’s perfect.
Indeed, such a little gem
I have the 25 1.7 Panasonic lens. I purchased that lens over the Olympus due to the price. At times I wish I would have gotten the Olympus instead
Strange, here in Malaysia the Olympus is much cheaper than Panasonic!
Wow very cool, but I think with your talent, you can make any lens excel!
Thanks, you are too kind!
Hello Robin, as always a valuable review with great images. Thanks for sharing them. I also think the M.Zuiko 25mm 1.8 is a little gem of a lens. And don't listen to us when we don't agree with you, because going against the current has merit 😂
No worries, I have learned to grow a thick skin over the years.
This lens is on my wish list. The only problem I have is, I have always used a zoom for the last 30 odd years and find it difficult to get my head around a prime lens other than 90mm macro which is on another level. I do have the 12mm f2 and the 17mm f1.8 which I don't use much. I have the feeling I need to get out more with just one lens and get over it (learn the hard way).
I won't use the 12mm and 17mm much either, but the 25mm however is a different little beast. That lens makes magic happen!
wow thanks for the video. been really thinking about this lens. I'm in between the 25mm f1.8 or the f2.8 pancake to complement the 12mm f2 that I currently have.
I don't remember a 25mm pancake lens for Micro Four Thirds.
Mr. Wong, which of these fixed lenses do you think is the best? Lumix 25mm f1.7, 25mm f1.4 or Olympus 25mm f1.8. Thank you
The answer is in the video. Kindly watch until the end. Thanks.
I have the Pana 20mm 1.7 currently. It’s sharp and I like the pancake form factor, but the autofocus is horrible. Normally I am a 50mm shooter.
So I am considering this Olympus 25 as a replacement, to the cost of a bit longer shape if I get it.
I switched to the Olympus 25mm soon after using the Panasonic 20mm for the exact same reason. Definitely feels like a big upgrade. The size difference is very small as the Olympus lens has a much smaller radius but sticks out more than the Panasonic. 100% recommend
@@W-cz6js Thank you, this is definitely the kind of feedback I am looking for !
I am going to get it.
Yeah I just cannot stand the slow AF on the Panasonic 20mm, but then again, that is a much older lens. I wish Panasonic updates the lens with new AF mechanism.
@@robinwong Yeah, I love pancake lenses.
Hey Robin, coincidentally I just bought this lens last week to replace the 12-40 pro lens which was starting to get old. The focus speed is amazing on the em1 mk2 body, the sharpness of the widest aperture is also very good. No regrets about buying it, in fact very satisfied even though it is in used condition. For portrait photography needs, is the Olympus 45mm f1.8 still recommended for the price? Or are there other more attractive options at identical prices? Thank you, greetings from Indonesia
All I can say is that the 45 f1.8 is a phantastic lens for portraits. Very sharp, wonderful bokeh. You should be able to get a used one for about 150USD.
Maybe you should check out the Sigma 56mm f1.4. Incredible sharpness, great bokeh. Pricetag should be about 400USD. If I didn't have the Oly 45 I would certainly go for this one!
@@donjoe6326 Totally agree, I even tried it when I bought an Olympus 25mm last week. When the sunlight is bright, CA is not visible at all, even at the largest aperture of f1.4. Very sharp results, and excellent contrast. Maybe it would be the first choice if the budget is ready, the second alternative I would take the Olympus 45mm
I'd say 45mm and 25mm are two different lenses, and yes, I'd highly recommend the 45mm if you do a lot of portrait photography!
Thank you :)
I saw a meme a while back and caption was something like "I buy an expensive gadget, then watch videos to validate my purchase." Which is certainly true for me 😅. I personally like comparison videos and find them helpful, even if my lens is the one that is "bad."
I find it very difficult to shoot with prime lenses. I am a more zoom-lens guy. I have the 20 mm F/1.4 and struggle everytime shooting with it (although it is a good lens). I like your photos and your enthusiasm about this lens.
No worries, if zoom lens works better for you, go for it. Prime lenses will push you to work harder, hence most of the time you will get better images at the end.
@@robinwong Thanks a lot!
There's definitely nothing WONG with this lense
I see what you did there
It could be cool with a 25mm 1.7 or 1.8 like the panasonic leica 15mm 1.7
Hi What best for point and shoot 2024
How would you compare it with the lumix equivalent?
Watch the video until the end please, thanks.
Compared to FF I agree there is a massive advantage but I don't think its "much" smaller than the APSC equivalents.
The size and weight differences are minimal, and in practice non-existent, compared to mirrorless APSC primes. For example you are only getting a size saving of 3mm (42mm v.s. 45mm) and a grand weight saving of 17g compared to the sony 35mm f1.8 on APSC. And that's comparing a non-stablised lens (Olympus) to a stablised lens (Sony), the advantage would likely be even less if it was like for like.
That's a very minor difference given how much you give up in terms of the crop factor at f1.8 between m43 and APSC. You can go even more compact and lighter with a f2.8 prime on APSC which having the same FF equivalent crop factor (although that's only for depth of field/bokeh and not low light performance). Sony's Zeiss Branded 35mm f2.8 is 6mm shorter and 7g lighter than the Olympus - and that's a FF lens (although it makes a great compact APSC Nifty Fifty equivalent). The Samyang 35mm f2.8 is a full 1cm shorter and more than 50g lighter than the Olympus.
Mirrorless has really closed the gap between m43 and APSC in terms of portability to a point where the physical distance you need between elements in the lens array prevents m43 from having a real advantage outside of very long telephoto lenses.
It's just a fact that the Olympus 1.8 lenses call punch way above their weight when it comes to performance for value. I only have the 17 1.8 right now.. but every micro four-thirds shooter I know who has this lens feels that it is an indispensable part of their kit. I do wonder if the Lumix 25 1.4 needs to be paired with a Lumix body and it's built in firmware to be at it's best because I've taken some of my favorite shots on a GX-8 or G9 with that lens, but you are not the only OM shooter to point out the the chromatic aberration for the Pana-Leica Leica..
I was not complaining about chromatic aberration, the Olympus 25mm is just a better performer - overall sharper wide open, better corner to corner sharpness, better contrast, better close up shooting (minimum focusing distance), better flare resistance, just better everything!
I always liked this lens but never bought it because I have the cheaper Lumix 25 f1.7 lens. No, I never found a problem with it. It is an excellent lens. About plastic, I like my Lumix for the plastic! It is so light. But I just got the Pergear 25mm f1.7 MF, it is small and fun.
Because too many people have encountered the focus shift issue (myself and Matti Sulanto included), it is difficult to recommend a lens that has a known manufacturing defect.
@@robinwong I am not doubting you Robin! I am just saying I have had a different experience. In any case, to me the Oly 25 is the better lens just because of the size.
❤❤❤❤❤
Thanks Zoltan
@@robinwong you're the best and the nicest person. Like other RUclipsrs making gear buying live, etc. and I'm not interested in the "G.A.S." I rather talk about photography and technical aspects and your live show about photography is the best for me, I love the: "Let's do this"!👍💯🤟❤️😊
cant afford for the oly 25, eventually go for yong nuo 25 for starters in street and urban photo as hobby
Yongnuo 25mm is a good place to start
Don´t sell it Robin! Along with it you´d be giving away a piece of whats typically so good in the MFT-system (small, light, sharp, affordable).
The great thing about Micro Four Thirds now, the used lens in the marketplace is abundant, and the price is quite reasonable too.
50mm eq is way too tight for street for me
One of my favourites with my EPL 8 great compact setup for carrying around all day.
Yes, the 25mm fits PEN cameras perfectly!
Lumix 14mm is great too, for a tiny pancake which tastes great!
Acutually it's sigma.
Hey robin I would love to see you do a review on the sigma 56 mm f1.4 for MFT if that’s possible and to hear your review on such a lens 😊