Please understand, sensor size is irrelevant for anything but lens combinations. Anything like noise, zoom, or macro can be done by any sensor size, IF paired with the right lens. What makes the FF superior is the lens selection. For any system, it's good enough provided you have the lenses you need for that particular sensor size. APS-C F1.8 35mm = FF F2.8 50mm, everything is the same: DoF, noise (SNR), FoV, etc., so it's all a matter of lens combinations.
I kind of hate having to rely on aperture to brighten images, if I could stay f2.8 and above as well as 1/100 and above and the ISO just take care of the rest that would be ideal. Small lenses on a body that has phenomenal iso performance is what I want to see from micro four-thirds, or even 1". 😮
I have a FF system (Sony), but just got into MFT (OM system) as a replacement for my APS-C dSLRs. I used the APS-C by far the most, and now it's MFT. Sure, more megapixels, and yes, with my faster lenses, the Sony FF is better for moving subjects in low light, but that's it. The FF system is big (the lenses, not the cameras), heavy, and very, very expensive. If young buyers can buy Sony FF, then they can afford MFT high-end cameras as well. If not, then stick to the camera phones, because point-and-shoots are being discontinued, and the same goes for bridge cameras and dSLRs. The future is serious enthusiasts who pay for the best and those who stick with their phones. So, I do not think an MFT entry-level camera is a viable option in the current market.
@@liselottepulver2819 OM System just needs for her to do a promo shoot with her using the m 4/3 camera and full frame might be dead 🤣 A lot of really young buyers will have OM cameras on their wish list, but that will also drive up prices!
I shoot with a EM1 MIII and love the M43 system. I sell my work online and through galleries. At NO point has anyone said, "oh, I'm not buying your work because you didn't shoot it with FF" or asked what type/brand of camera the pic was shot with! Its the person behind the camera, not the camera!
Hi Mark, to be fair, I watched the entire video rather than shutting it down after the frankly patronising start, especially for ancient people like me. I am indeed one of those fossilised people who have spent a lot of money on a MFT + 4 Pro Lenses. To do this on an equivalent full frame would have cost twice as much, and for me, unaffordable. I am not a good photographer, it will take me many years for me to get to any decent standard. My focus (sorry), is exclusively outdoors, so I tie in exactly with the OM1 profile. Now hears the thing. One of the biggest demographic shifts in Western populations is the aging population. Most of us are fortunate to have property, retire at a reasonable age, and will have access to funds to purchase cameras and lenses that suit our arthritic hands, weak grips and not particularly wanting to lug heavy cameras and lenses around. We also want to get into a hobby that generates outdoor actively and mindfulness. Considering the collapse in the overall camera marketplace, I would far prefer to be seeing niche cameras to this perpetually regenerating cash rich sector, than massively overpriced and oversized alternatives. Full frame cameras are fantastic, they are not for me. But I have no intention of debating the cons and pros. I am happy that people are happy with what choices they made and then, politely, explain the positives. Thanks for your video
I’m with you. The cost is more than double for this hobby in full frame. Secondly as I’m getting older I have shaky hands and the ibis in my OM 5 is amazing. Thirdly I’ve taken some of my best pictures on this system
As someone who own m4/3 and fullframe and use them all for professional full time work… they all have their strengths and weaknesses. And as we’ve been hearing a lot more from influencers, there really is no bad camera. You can make magic with any of them, but like any tool you don’t use an impact driver to hammer a nail.
I really hope M43 doesn't die out and they manage to recapture the entry level market. The OM-1ii has some insane capabilities for wildlife photography and the GH7 has video features that beat cameras twice the price. Buying into this system with a cheaper body would be very appealing for those looking to upgrade in the future.
I agree. Although I actually LIKE the large bodies, I definitely see the benefit of small bodies. The ideal, for me, would not only be more/new compact bodies, but then some compact premium lenses that are weather resistant. I'd LOVE to have a small, weather sealed camera to go along with my OM-1 and long wildlife lenses. Currently, there aren't many options.
@@eyeamstrongest wildfire photography is actually unbelievably fun to shoot. It is by far my favorite 'landscape' to shoot. Being in Southern California I get to do it quite often 😅 the images I get are magical
I'm 42 and have been a M43 shooter since my 30th, in Brazil where there isn't even official sellers available. I have full frame and 1" too but my m43 cameras are chosen 95% of the time! Hope that after this video you might look at more M43 lenses too, your reviews are great!
I was just about to comment that I just picked up a micro 4/3 camera recently an I am not an old man! I then remembered I am in my mid 40's and younger photographers might disagree with me :) Also I have been buying micro 4/3 bodies and lenses recently on the used market and I am loving them. Mostly for their size and ibis, its a good time to play with great used cameras.
I own an Olympus E-M10 III and it has amazing IBIS. I wish they hadn't effectively crippled it with 8bit video only. It's good for 8bit. But you can't tell me that 10bit would've been impossible with the hardware it has. Other than that it's my dream camera.
Haha, yes, after lugging around big camera bags with FF and APSC cameras and lenses for 10+ years I just now had enough and started building a compact m43 system for personal use. My requirements were: 1. Camera and lens need to fit in a largish coat pocket, or carry in strap without being too weighty and cumbersome 2. Significantly better IQ and photographic control than a regular smartphone / compact camera 3. Not too expensive 4. Equipment readily available From my quite extensive reading, only m43 scratch all these itches somewhat. And with the decline of the "advanced compact camera" market, m43 is the only option for us who don't want to pay for and carry large FF/APSC cameras and lenses. Fuji /could/ be an option, but as m43 is already in the gray are wrt point 1 and 3, for a poor hobbyist, Fuji somewhat cross the line on both points, at least for me. I really hope people wake up and see they dont need the latest FF mirrorless for family gatherings, but I will buy what I need to last me another 10 years, and if m43 is not fulfilling my requirements by then, I will evaluate and reinvest.
@@kreeeofmnht Yup. I mean you can get all those things above in a APS-C or FF camera but for way more money. Or you can get a used good as new GH5 with a very ok kit lens for around 600 €/£/$ 🤷🏻♂️ No idea why someone wouldn't want a 4k 10bit hybrid shooter with great IBIS and usable AF for a little more than ½ the price of an Apple monitor stand.
32 years old, living in new york, sold all of my Sony and Canon gear (most of them barely a year old), and now fully invested in MFT. I have my E-M5 as my EDC, E-M1 for more purposeful photography, and a Lumix G7 as a B cam for either purpose. I truly hope MFT doesn't die down, especially Olympus/OMD because I just love their design and colors. But, selfishly, I hope it also doesn't get too successful that their prices skyrocket ala Fuji and that the "cool kids" and "creators" take over the brand and system I identify with the most ala Sony.
As a Fuji shooter, lenses like the 23mm 1.4 LM WR (35mm f2 equivalent) being more expensive than an actual Sigma 35mm 1.4 ART is absolutely crazy and annoying.
I am an ex MFT shoter and now an fuji one:)) i loved the mft world but i needed some extra iso capability. But every time someone tells me that they want i camera, i sugest mft, because is more than enough for the begginers and enthusiasts
Fuuuck. I understand that Fuji one (as someone deleting TikTok and did not know about their "quirky" status in social media until looking for a XT model recently). I'm actually surprised why Olympus didn't take off, they look like Fuji models and so enjoyable to use
@@felathamekitty Olympus never properly launched their Pen line in the west. The problem with most of their other bodies is that they're simply too big to make sense for the small sensor, when you can buy other cameras of the same size that offer better image quality. But the Pen models are really great, they just screwed up by limiting them to Japan for some reason.
It's crazy that MFT is not more popular. It would suit so many photographers. Not just wildlife ones. The misnomer "crop sensor" is a real problem, I feel. Too many people think that FF is the only option.
I blame the social media trends. People buy into hype instead of being objective. Not only FF but also towards cameras like the X100 V/VI as compact shooters when many people would be better served with a more versatile GX9 or EM/OM-5. Heck, the X100V goes for $1500+ used when you can pick up a used GX85 kit for
@@NiSE_Rafter The X100 models is targeting fashion oriented buyers. This people buys the camera taking the style of the camera into consideration. So the X100 is a complete different product to other cameras .Talk to a marketeer and he will explain what is a product. Then you understand the difference.
@@GenX_in_the_wild Sure the bodies are getting smaller. But the lenses are not getting smaller and they never will. Bigger sensors need bigger glass. Size is the whole point of MICRO(!) 4/3 to me, but it seems like the manufacturers are going in another direction with massive bodies and lenses. I'm not a super passionate photographer who has a photography page on instagram and flickr. I just like taking pictures (sometimes) and I appreciate looking back at memories in higher quality. I have a GX9 with tiny lenses, and while that thing fits in a jacket pocket, sometimes I don't take it out because I don't feel like bringing extra stuff with me, even though it's so small. Sure FF is cool, sure it would be fun to geek out on the quality, but if I had a full frame setup, it would mostly just stay on the shelf at home because everything is bigger and heavier.
The EP7 is sold in the west, and is readily available in the UK and Europe at a really good price. Micro Four Thirds are a superb option for wildlife, macro, travel and sports photography (lightweight and pack a punch) because of the form factor. I use M43 Lumix and Olympus cameras, as well as full frame and APSC from Canon. I also shoot analogue with Leica, Canon, Ricoh, Olympus, but I normally pick up a M43 camera when heading out for a day, and my EDC is an M43 ... A Lumix GX1 or GX880 with a Lumix 15mm f1.7 Summilux, and it's made more versatile by having a tiny 15 - 150mm zoom.
This is my travel camera, and when it breaks i don’t know wtf i’ll do, i refuse to go to the other cameras that are as big as my sony FF. They should come asap with the pen f 2. Bought it in Europe
Very good point. Olympus PEN EP-7, released in 2021, was the first new camera released after OM Systems took over. While not a low-end camera, it is not for professional shooters and is available in Australia which, last time I looked, was a western country?
I've been into photography since I was 18, and my first camera was a Lumix G7. I still have it, and it's been awesome. I've grown to love it over the years. I've bought a few prime lenses over time, and my current favorites are the Lumix Nocticron 42.5 f1.2 and the 12mm Summilux f1.4. I love the Micro Four Thirds system because it's not as common as full frame or APSC, and it lets me show off how powerful it is.
Very good analysis of the state of affairs. I am a cashed-up old guy who has recently bought into the system to supplement my FF cameras. I agree completely with your summation: Doesn't matter; go have fun with your cameras.
I agree that it's all about fun, unless your a pro. But if you shoot with FF users it's not much fun to compare images as photo clubs often do. M43 is fine if you only surround yourself with other m43 shooters but it's easy to see why it doesn't get respect in the world of photography. Except, of course, from those who are compensated to shill for m43.
I only recently got into m43 with the purchase of an EM-1 and a couple of el-cheapo Lumix lenses. The knock-on effect from the smaller sensor is truly amazing. My entire daily usable kit packs into a bag that's half the size and weight of the FF Nikon and Canon bags I lug around.
I am 78 years old. I am the very beginning of the Baby Boomers....to many companies, the cash cows. I have shot Minolta film cameras, and Nikon digital cameras for more years than I care to count. I continue to shoot, primarily, Nikon cameras. But....I also use a Lumix G9 with a gorgeous Lumix / Leica 45 mm macro and a small handful of other 4/3 lens. I've just ordered a G9II at a very competitive price. My Nikon and Lumix systems have different uses. I enjoy both. I totally agree that Lumix / OM Systems would benefit from offering a physically smaller body, as they once did. The G9II is no smaller than my Nikon Z6....but the lenses are significantly smaller. The combined package is smaller. Still, a small, even fixed lens camera, would be an easy purchase, not only for younger buyers, but for those who want an easy upgrade from their current primary camera....a cell phone.
I'm a working videographer that's been using m43 for a long time and really don't care for lugging around full frame gear around when a few GH6 can work so well for me with a good set of panasonic f1.2/1.4 primes and a set of f0.95 voigtlanders. I do make some use of shooting anamorphic nicely with the vazens as well. My kit is small, easy to pack and bring with me (fewer bags/cases) and still gives amazing quality at 4k with 10-bit internal or RAW (mind blowing considering the kit size) with an external recorder... its really amazing when you know what you're doing and lighting appropriately. Personally it's not a price thing, it's a size and utility thing. Nobody can look at my footage and tell its not FF.
full frame Canon user here. The kit is heavy and has a dedicated backpack. No, it's not "better" than MFT for any and all situations- that is why I ALSO have a MFT system . Smaller, lighter- and I can lug around more lenses in that format. Happy with both. Yeah I also have some APS-C older cameras I still use. There is no winner in format wars... only our wallets lose. If you can do this, it is best to have the right tool for the right job- or at least make do with something you like.
I really hope executives at Panasonic and OM Systems are watching this video. Two cameras that the format needs to attract buyers: - A truly small, compact and affordable camera (like the GM1) - A full-feature camera (EVF, IBIS, weather sealing) with the latest 20M+ image sensor that is compact and under 450 grams (like the E-M5)
Totally agree. It should also be advertised for backpackers. Weatherproof and minimal weight. Size not as important as weight over hundreds if kilometers. Thats why i do not carry my sony gear. I just cant…
Yes, an MFT equivalent of the Leica Q3 in 'reporter' garb and selfie capable for entry level. ~20mm non removeable Lumix style lens. Marketing: "For the Wide Wide World", "The Documentary Eye", "My Vision" ....
I have recently upgraded from the E-M1III to the OM1II. I also own several full frame systems, e.g. Nikon Z7, Canon 5DsR, Leica M10 and more. The 14 bit RAW file support in high red mode is a GAME CHANGER for landscape photographers who need to climb a mountain through miles of hiking to get to their photography location. These files can easily compete with my Z7 or 5DsR for detail and fidelity.
Some weeks ago i bought two used Lumix GX9 cameras and some small lenses for every-day-fotografie. I really love them, because they easily fit my kind of photographie. Do I want full frame? Yes, and I own two Lumix S-bodies. Do I need them? Not really.
Long life to Micro 4 Thirds! I love the system! Great video, excellent documentation! Having the GH6 and the OM-1 among others let me be a testimony to these powerful arguments! Thanks, Mr. Wiemels.
Im a 35 year old enthusiast travel, street, portrait shooter and traded in my Nikon Zf for an Om1ii. That Nikon Zf was an amazing camera, just a bit heavy with any lense other than their 28 or 40mm lenses. I wasnt tryning to lug around bigger lenses on an already hefty body. Also have a EM10iv , nice lil travel camera.
I worry about M43's future for still photography, but don't think the standard is facing peril because it has a strong presence in video and industrial cameras. The only point I think you missed is that M43 lenses are so affordable. Usually 1/2 to 2/3 the price of their APSC counterparts.
M43 has a lock on the professional market, I think they represent insane value for videography, sports and wildlife genres. What will get them back into the playing field with everyone else imo is competing with Fujifilm in the fun and entry level market. They used to make small cameras and small prime lenses and it's high time they come back to it, maybe with their own implementation of in camera film sims. The biggest appeal for m43 is their size, but in recent years their pro bodies and pro level lenses are massive, comparable to even an APSC kit. If they can find their place in this niche they'd do very well I think.
I have a em1x as my "pro" camera. It's the one that pays my bills. I'm looking at an em1 mkii as a secondary/every day camera. Both fit a role. I shoot mainly portrait, but micro 4/3 is adept and works for me well.
Olympus has a lock on pro market? I personally have not seen one single working pro using this system, i have EM1x myself but i always grabbed my Z9 or old even my old D5 or 1Dx when i have a important assignment, paid or none paying volunteer work.
@@dannyli9424 that's what they locked-on to but sadly fails to appeal to, because western "pros" are all about that bigger sensor size as if to compensate for something.
Old men buy M43. It's a hilarious insight, but what does it really tell us? Are young people buying anything at all? Have old guys with experience of photography just worked out that M43 is a great system?
I'd say (as someone who has worked in camera sales) younger, inexperienced photographers will go with the full frame cameras because they want the 'best' or at least have been told that a bigger sensor camera is the be all and end all. Canon, Nikon and Sony marketing efforts are massive and they're household names in cameras, especially the first two, probably Canon most of all. It's difficult to overcome that inertia with different camera systems that are relatively unknown outside of specialist knowledge.
Yes. It's the "biggest sensor", thing, and the hype of Sony giving their cameras to every youtuber there is. There is precious little on M4/3. It should be marketed as a young man's (and) trave/adventure/hikingl camera. I'm actually thinking of getting one for my son.
An interesting video for sure. I have an OM-1 Mk 1 and lenses and a Nikon Z8. I am in the “old man” demographic, and I use the Nikon for most of my wildlife photography and the Olympus for travel. Even if I was built like a tank (I’m not), I would tire of carrying around the big Z8 body with only one lens, but I can easily carry the OM1 with a couple of lenses when I travel, and I travel to some rather outlandish places where weather sealing and temperature tolerance is a big advantage. For me, these systems are complimentary. I get superb results from both. I do hope that M4/3 continues to thrive.
Very fair video. At 63, I am in the Micro 4/3 demographic. Still, I left the Olympus system because Cameras like the Z8 were getting smaller while Olympus seemed disinterested in exploiting the size advantage. I still kept 3 lenses for underwater use... the smaller camera is even more important inside a housing. OM System's outdoor wildlife and backpacking focus is luring me back in. OM-Systems needs to make a few lighter splash resistant long lenses. The 75-300 is perfect in size but lacks weather protections and is not sharp. That be the best lens in the line up.
Hey there.. I started with Canon HD Camcorders back some 15+/- years ago. When I hired a videographer, he had a GH4 setup, and that started my journey with Micro 4/3. I've tried APSC (canon M50, Sl3), Full Frame (Panasonic S5II, Canon R8), Sony (ZV-1 & RX10 IV), and more Panasonics (GH95 & FZ-2500). In the end, they all can produce some great photos and videos if you know what you are doing. But for me and my workflow, including peace of mind with usability, I just bought two used Gh5 II cameras and moved over the 12-60 lenses from my G95s. It's the feature set and the ease of the production process that trumps everything for me. I'm a solo creator now, and I can trust these to deliver time and time again. These cameras work for me, and I have enough of an investment in micro 4/3 lenses to cover most situations. And I still have the full frame options if I "NEED" to utilize them for a particular shoot. I'm not "loyal" to the micro 4/3 format, I am loyal to anyone who creates an easy-to-use and manage system with feature sets that help me reliably and efficiently create content. Thanks for the video. Cheers Rick p.s. I'm 54.. one of those old guys with micro 4/3 ;)
It's funny, I bought a new to me Panasonic G9 and searched RUclips for tutorials on it. My first M43 camera. I've seen a range of ages from teenagers to "old men". Even a few ladies.
In my 20s, bought an OM System OM-1 and I'm in love. I have no complaints and I won't need another camera system anytime soon. The quality of this camera is superb and I like the M43 sensor. + the cost factor and size factor is a big one, The Olympus 12-40mm f2.8 zoom is TINY compared to, say, the Sigma 24-70mm f2.8 for Full Frame. This camera is so much fun to shoot with and I can't wait to get another lens with different focal lengths. Would recommend M43 to anyone wanting to have fun with photography!
I was 44 this year and am coming back to photography after a few years out. I trialled all the sensor sizes, bought a Fuji X-H2 and an OM-1.2 and ran them side by side for the summer. All the Fuji kit has just gone to MPB. It's not that I disliked the Fuji, but I just clicked more with the OM. Size, ergonomics, and user experience. I appreciated the lighter lenses, I appreciated the decent weather sealing (of the pro lenses), and the RAW files are half the size of the Fujis. That being said, I wish OM weren't so hell bent on focusing on birding and wildlife - I don't think that's doing them any favours. There are so many other genres of photography that they'd be brilliant for, but they just ignore it.
Olympus strategy is correct in focusing on birding and wild life. the m4/3 technology with it's smaller sensor and smaller lens for long zooms is predisposed to taking photographs at high burst rates and at long focal lengths. If Olympus wants to focus on street photography and landscapes with wide angle lens, full frame cameras would beat the pants out of them. Olympus would have been bankrupt some time ago.
I think this was one of your best videos. I think it is great when you survey retailers and try to corelate it with the official postions of camera manufacturers.
I am starting a new film production company and our main camera is the Pen E-P7, it has a 20MP sensor, about 13 stops of dynamic range and a great ibis too, you can even create your own LUTs inside the camera. It is compact, never overheats and has no crop in 4K. I got it for €450. Most of us are in our 20s. Nuff said 😂
I bought my first MFT camera (the Lumix GF1) in my twenties back in 2009, then the lovely EM5 mark I a few years later, before "going full frame" for while. I then kinda lost interest in photography and cameras for a while, until I recently bought a used EM1 II, a GX800 and an E-PL8. I can't help but love the system with its quality lenses - and hope it sticks around forever:)
Depth of field is not just useful for macro photography. It's useful most of the time for all kinds of things. And it allows wider apertures which means that you don't need such high ISOs. f4 gives you "f8 of FF" depth of field. Straight away you've reduced your ISO by 2 stops. So it ends up not any noisier than FF.
Hi Mark, Thanks for the video. New image editing software may help overcome some of the perceived issues about resolution of cameras with smaller sensors and give M4/3 a boost. One issue that I have not seen discussed is the pros and cons of the 4:3 aspect ratio sensors vs the 3:2 aspect ratio sensors, which are in current full frame and APS-C cameras. The smaller sensor area of M4/3 cameras means that lenses can be smaller but presumably the sensor shape also helps. The image projected onto the sensor is circular and larger than the sensor, so the sensor effectively takes a crop from the circular image. I presume that a rectangular sensor that is closer in shape to a square would need a smaller circular image (and so smaller lens) than a rectangular sensor that has the same area but is more elongated in shape. If so, the lens size advantage of M4/3 compared to current full frame and APS-C systems is due to a combination of smaller sensor size and the difference in sensor shape (4:3 vs. more elongated 3:2 aspect ratio). I have not seen this discussed anywhere so please correct me if I am wrong.
I have followed your argument with interest. I am one of those "older" photographers. It has been 55 years since I took my first photos. Dozens of cameras have passed through my hands. My first encounter with the MFT format was also quite a while ago. A walking tour through the Himalayas made me decide to leave the heavy Nikon equipment at home. The professional full-frame Nikon is still there, but I almost always reach for one of my MFT cameras. For street work an Olympus Pen F and for telephoto and macro work the Lumix G9. A collection of light, affordable and manageable lenses. Razor-sharp prints (40 x 60 CM). They will not earn most of it from me anymore. I cannot think of anything I lack.
I own a PEN F, an OM-1 and my latest addition, an E-M1X, combined with the 17mm F1.8, 25mm F1.8, 8-25mm F4, 60mm F2.8, 45mm F1.2, 40-150mm F2.8, 300mm F4, 100-400mm. Looking forward to get the 12-40mm F2.8 and the 12-100mm F4. Call me an old man.
What good content, I really think you haven't missed anything, I happen to live in Japan and the M43 is still very popular there, it goes very well with the Japanese philosophy of making things more compact and efficient. In my case, I use various devices and sensor sizes. One of my favorite activities is to go out on my mountain bike and take photos. Therefore I need lightweight equipment that I can carry in an external bag so I can grab it quickly. I used several compact cameras, Canon G1X, G7, Pentax Q and finally OM5. The OM5 is a fantastic small camera that, accompanied by good fixed optics, provides excellent results. The meaning of the M43 was always its portability, lightness robustness and price. The problem is that lately the M43 has forgotten these founding principles, they have made increasingly larger bodies, more voluminous lenses and prices even above competitors with larger sensors that have also already equaled the technological advances that the M43 had. long ago. In forums you will always read Lumix GX, GM and Olympus Pen users asking for updated versions but in Lumix they go the opposite way, like the atrophied S9.
I am an old man and had Canon equipment. When mirrorless came I discovered that price on lenses were rather high. Further Canon equipment was heavy and big. I switched over to Fuji for my street photography and OM-1 for wide life. But for street I almost have switched over 100% to sony's pocketable Sony RX100 V and VII. As long as full frame is bulky, heavy and big and there are softwares that manage noice in an excellent way light weight and small is the future for non proffesionals.
You must not forget the older man are skilled photographers and move from Nikon/Canon to m43 and aps-c. And they now their software and noice is not a big deal.
Great discussion without any grinding an axe one way or the other. I had the opportunity to be able purchase and extensively use every DSLR and mirrorless system with the best of cameras and lenses until about 8 years ago when I got my hands on MFT. Before the MFT I suffered with carting so much gear around when I went on shots. I really spending 400 dollars shipping a Pelican case of cameras and lenses when I was doing a shoot in Yellowstone park. After switching to MFT I was able to put two Olympus MFT bodies and every possible lens I might need into a carryon backpack that went under the seat in front of me. This was perfect. I started out shooting film in the 1950s as a kid and haven’t stopped. I lived in Alaska for 30 years doing many outings and shoots that required rugged equipment. I had extensive collections of Nikon, Canon, Sony that I really liked, but as I got older I just didn’t want the weight. As I have mellowed with age and don’t seem to get around to life threatening adventures. My life is pretty much spent traveling by plane, car, or ship. I picked up a Leica Q when they first hit the market and still have it. I have added a Leica M rangefinder with spectacular manual focus glass. I couldn’t resist picking up a SL2S Leica. I have sold off all of my Nikon, Canon, and Sony gear. I still have and am keeping my 3 Olympus MFT bodies: and almost every great lens that Olympus made. I agree that this is a great outdoor camera. Indoors, I much prefer the Leica cameras and non of the MFT cameras I had did very well punching the ISO up much. I presume that most high end full frame cameras these days can handle higher ISO and deliver better dynamic range. I have never had a camera that is anywhere as weather resistant as my Olympus MFT cameras and many of the lenses. Sadly, the small Leica M system is not very weather resistant, so when I travel to wet countries I feel like I have to babysit the Leica. Absolutely, no concerns about the Olympus.
My little brother (22) wanted a new camera under $1000 with kit lens to upgrade from his iPhone. Initially I though m43 would be a good fit since he wants it for travel, hiking, wildlife, landscape…but the only options at his price are the ancient Lumix G7 and less ancient but still 4yo OMD EM10 iv. He ended up with a Sony a6400 which is also pretty old now…it seems like there are very few new options at lower budget. Canon has some new APS-C cameras but their lenses are so expensive, cheaper now with third party APS-C lenses. Idk much about Nikon, maybe the Z30 could’ve been an option.
The problem here is the "new" requirement. A Lumix G90 / G91 / G95 is not ancient and can be bought for under 500€. Which leaves enough budget for a Pana Leica 12-60 lens. That should be a pretty decent beginner combo if no animal AF is required.
@@hendrickziegler8487 IMO buying used is a very enthusiast idea. My hobbies are PCs and cameras so the used market is very near and dear to me. But in my experience most of my friends or family or just random people on Reddit, when they enter this space they want something brand new with a warranty. Part of Mark's analysis was young people buying into a system, and I think for that demographic, you need a brand new budget option that is relatively recent, even if its a minor refresh. It's just a bad look when you google Lumix G7 review and dpreview's article on it is from 2015...
One big advantage for the smaller sensor is not the smaller body, but the way smaller lenses for equivalent zooms, at least on the longer side. And even for the same focal lengths, some weight can be shaved off due to the smaller required imaging circle.
Micro four-thirds has exactly 1 role to justify its existence to me: Making big kit small. Now that comes in two flavours. The first, is taking those mega size ultra techy sports and wildlife set ups and making them into the size of a regular full frame camera with a 70-100 - they seem to be pretty committed to this one and doing it well still. The second is taking the mid range prime rangefinder style set up people love for travel/street/doc and making it pocketable and snappier - they have dropped the ball here almost entirely. We basically only need the OM-1/Lumix G9 + Pen/GX9.
IMO the big issue with m4/3 has been that in order to squeak out better image quality esp. Olympus/OM has been using full frame lenses with m4/3 mounts. Basically almost all the Fuji film lenses i have are smaller than the m4/3 lenses of similar focal rage. Now people will go "but!" and make an excuse, but it defeats much of the appeal of m4/3 if more modern APS-C camera/lenses are smaller.
@@genevostok agree. I also hate the direction Fujifilm is going for optical perfection currently with their 1.4 glass. It's full frame size and weight. No thanks. Fujifilm are supposed to be jpeg machines with no grip and character lenses - that's how they can justify terrible AF as a feature like Leica. 👋
Best, most informed and balanced assessment of m4/3 I've seen on youtube. I have EM1 m1, EM1 m2, OM1 m1, and the Ep-7. I thought I would sell the EM1's when I upgraded to OM1 but they're such good back up bodies I can't let go of them, for all the reasons you've stated
Old man on a budget here! Like many of my group, I got tired of lugging my heavy FF gear and jumped into M43. Love my "old" used Olympus E-M-1 (original) and some perfectly fine used lenses I've acquired over the past couple years at a total cost that's less than a new mid-range camera. For my needs, I'm very happy with the capabilities of this system.
I'm so old I'm using my original Olympus 14-45 F2.8-3.5 4/3 lens on my G7. My original 4/3 was an Olympus E300 that I just replaced with a Lumix G7. The Old lenses work well on the new body and are amazing glass. I'll be sad to see MFT cameras go away when that universal format has so many possibilites. I've been shooting digital since about 1993 and 4/3 was a promise of opening up the world to a new standard of interoperability that hadn't existed till then. I've got some terrific MFT lenses including the Lumix 42.5/f1.7... But my old semi-pro 4/3 lenses are still there with full electronic compatibility. I haven't tried my old Zeiss t* 50mm 1.4 C/Y manual prime on the new body, but I'm looking forward to seeing how well all my old gear works with a ten year newer 16MP body. I've been shooting since 1975 or so when I got my first 35mm. Gone through Yashica/Contax, Canon, Nikon, and Rolliflex film cameras. Published weekly pictures in a paper with abou 25,000 circulation for several years, and lost a pile of negatives and prints over moves to europe and back a couple of times. Love digital and have a half dozen storage devices with my files going back to 1996. MFT may be a niche format, but I suspect it's gaining popularity with the pros that do outdoor street, or wildlife photography simply because of the weight advantage over full frame cameras and lenses. Even for consumers a MFT mirrorless body and pancake lense can drop in a pocket and provide features only the most expensive cellphone cameras offer. My EDC is a Galaxy S23, with my G7 bag in the car/truck. This morning I dragged my E300 bag in, and realized it weighed about five times what the G7 bag and the same number of lenses did. I can see pros using their full frame sensor cameras in studio and formal assignments, but having a MFT system for mobile/casual shooting on the side. The glass on the market right now has incredable values in excellent lenses, wonderful video lenses, and inexpensive lenses that cost a fraction of what we used to see. I've got a 25mm F1.7 manual lense that cost $80, weighs hardly anything despite being and all metal build, and shoots excellent quality images. It only adds 2 inches to the depth of the camera verses the 10 plus inches of my 4/3 50-300 F2.8-3.5 zoom. At 70+ and shooting casually these days I'm a 4/3 and MFT lover.
Another way to look at it is that M43 is shot by photographers with a lot of experience. I shot Nikon film cameras for around 30 years, switched to D70 and the D80, and then M43. I’ve gone through several, buying used and trading in or selling old ones. I’m currently using an GH2 for microscopy, a GX85 for most work, and a GM5 that fits in a pocket for hiking. Compact M43 cameras don’t attract attention like big DSLRs. No one stops you and says “You need a permit to shoot here.”
32 here. Bought my first digital camera last month and chose a GX85. I take it everywhere. Just shot over 2k pictures over 2 days in Gettysburg. I love the camera and this system and hope it stays around for a long time and continues to be developed.
I wonder if there are many people like me that will not buy MFT, because almost all of them have flippy screen. I'd love the OM-1 or G9II, but with two-way tilt instead of the flippy. Or some nice, compact camera with two-way tilt, like gx9, but also with proper AF.
Interesting. In New Zealand there are plenty of younger people using m43. Esp video shooters. Having said that I think Fuji has probably taken a fair bit the market that would have bought m43ds, at least since Olympus looked doomed.
I was given an EM10 Mk4 as a handme down. I am so impressed with it that I am going to trade it in for the OM-1. Don't need the Mark 2. Even though I have a Nikon Zf i like the M4/3 environment. As long as there is someone to service my cameras and lenses if anything goes wrong, I am set. The Olympus system is my macro setup. Love the JPEGs that come out and the colors in raw are amazing. I am in my 30s and I got into M4/3 system very recently
Interesting to introduce the very good used market as positive for the system. This is just because so many have left MFT. But it is great for all of us still using it. I recently bought a lens I never ever thought I would use: the Panaleica 200/2.8. It was offered even new for a fraction of the launch price. And yes I’ve used it a lot for shooting outdoor sports. Great fun.
4:30 Placed an order on the OM-1 Mark 1 Kit with 2 Lenses on the sale on September 30th. Was 40 years at that point of time. Went to sleep, woke up and was 60. Do not reccommend!
Thanks for the report. I downsized from Sony FF to M43, two years ago. I ordered an E-P7 from amazon JP. And I started to enjoy taking my camera with me again. The lenses made a huge difference when travelling. I bought an OM-5 for those rainy or bright sunny days. Yes I am in US and 64; but who counts the years and the ISO numbers.
I need a good camera for my long hikes and backpacks into the mountains..often 15 mile or more days and elevation gains of over 4000 ft. I also need a solidly built camera with no question about its weather sealing and with strong photographic features. M43 and needed lenses are often small and light which is key. That said, some of the Sony APSC cameras get close; often with strong video features, but less on the photo side. Image quality between m43 and APSC is effectively the same for most uses, but APSC cameras these days are often smaller, so very tempting, but I’m not sure as durable. Do wish Pan and Om would focus on small and light once again! BTW I’m 67.
It is about choice and priorities. I have moved on from APSC cameras. Full frame 35mm sensors are my preference. The M4/3rds market share is not the issue. It’s not about camera size or lens sizes either. It is just about finding a camera system you like. I like my full frame Nikon cameras. My Z9 is about as large as I want to go. My Z6ii is quite compact. I see no need to go smaller. (Mid 70s ancient guy).
Montreal based here, what I have seen in the past was mostly younger folks with Olympus, now mostly Fuji or Sony, the small APS-C. I have not seen a Panasonic/Lumix in ages, over 10 years. This is in the downtown area or in various tourist sites and the Botanical Garden.
These days, most people buy their gear online, with younger buyers usually going to Amazon after checking out reviews on RUclips. Camera store data tends to show more older customers, since they prefer shopping in person. But the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) system is still popular with creators and hobbyists, so reports from stores may not give the full picture, especially considering the younger crowd shopping online.
Not just men! I’m in my 60s and started using the mft about ten years ago when my Nikon became too heavy to use all day while travelling. I have only bought 2nd hand and have had a blast with five I have had so far. I’m looking forward to a trip to Australia with the 75-300 lens I recently bought for bird and nature photography.
I've always loved the size of 4/3 and I went all out on Canon full frame (and yes L RF lenses). The partner wants to learn photography but does not want all the bulk - and now we have a 4/3 customer. Here I am. I need to learn some new things but this format is literally perfect for a beginner manual photographer. (due to price/features/size)
I'm on the cusp of 39. I've mainly invested in Canon RF--I've got an R5, and R6, and an R10, with a mix of RF and adapted EF lenses. I used to have some m43 gear for hiking, but I sold it all a couple years ago. Then I recently bought an E-M1 Mark III as a lighter complement to my other stuff, a long with a couple lenses. I think I'll probably stick with just one m43 body at the moment, but the ergonomics, weather sealing and image stabilization are all excellent. I'll probably use it in conjunction with the R10 for hiking (don't like swapping lenses mid-hike). I hope m43 does have a future, because it really is a great system.
35 here. Purchased an em10 mkiv in July. Recently upgraded to a g9ii. Decided to stick with micro four thirds because I didn't want to invest in lenses all over again. I have no idea what I'm doing. I fit that "I just want to do better than phone pictures" market. So far I'm really enjoying it. Im happy with both cameras so far. Im blissfully ignorant when it comes down to the details of it all, but I'm okay with my decision so far.
I enjoy both my a6700 hundred and my om5 they both have their strengths. I think we have to see these sensor sizes as its own thing and not compare them. I like to use the car analogy for cameras. the micro four thirds being a four cylinder the apsc six and full frame 8 cylinders. They are all important in achieving different objectives efficiently. Ps I don’t consider my self to be too old but I am 37. Excellent video Mark as always. I
I just got myself a used Olympus EM-1 III a couple of months ago in additional to my existing 4 Lumix cameras and an Olympus PEN F body. The weight and size advantage of M4/3 as a system is unbeatable (the keyword here is "a system"). The image quality is good enough for me as a hobbyist who shoots photos only although Lumix camera are famous for their video capabilities. And I truly appreciate these two camera manufacturers' generosity in releasing camera features to their customers. They are the best in the industry (exact opposite to Canon, which I also own several). I also enjoy their innovative and practical lens offerings at a reasonable price, especially in Hong Kong. M4/3 camera makers should be rewarded for these reasons alone.
I'm 33 and i love my m43 because it's small and packed with features, and all my lenses with my lights and mics and the gimbal fit in a mini backpack that barely holds my 14" laptop, so no, not only old people, I have a full frame canon gathering dust because it doesn't fit my portastudio setup
The irony about the size point at 6:25 is that modern full frame lenses (and some bodies) are now as big as the medium format setups of the past - while the place to go for the compact experience of classic 35mm cameras is APS-C and m43. Just look at the size difference going from a Super Takumar 50 1.4 to today's Sigma Art 50 1.4.
I am an old young man of over 62, and I am very happy. In anticipation of what Canon will bring us in the way of full frame lenses and cameras at the end of November, I sold my Canon R3. as canon tried to plunder my bank account with a big and heavy one. RF 200-500 F/4 lens and a large and heavy R1 camera body, then I will seriously look at the M4/3 system from Om-sytem. I see many very good and beautiful results. So if Canon wants to keep me on board, they have to get to work
I am a A retired American Service man living in Bangkok... I don't know about U.S. buying habits but in much of SE asia, many folks still buy and use M43 (all ages) Tho many of us also have full frame as well... I currently use an Olympus EPL9 and some lenses...Cheers ( my fav full frame is a small A7c and a couple of lenses).
Mark, I thank you for presenting a fair review of the Micro 4/3 system. I agree that this system may not last. However, I find a lot of value in it. Personally, I have a wide variety of cameras, many of them pro level. 35mm and 120 film cameras, digital FF, APS-C, and MFT. As I get older, I am moving to lighter cameras and lenses since most of my photography is outdoors. The high quality and feature rich MFT cameras fit my use case very well. Even if they quit entirely, I still can use all my cameras and lenses to photograph anything I want. So, for me, it really doesn't matter what happens.
I am a MFT shooter since I bought my first camera 20 years ago and went through the whole Olympus Lineup. Recently I bought a canon full frame camera to jump on the bandwagon. Was quite surprised how small the difference is in reality. Even when it comes to autofocus, Olympus latest firmware update puts them head to head. One thing that was not mentioned in the video is just how much smaller the image circle is in MFT compared to full frame making for lenses that are much smaller in diameter. After experiencing the difference, I am not worried MFT is going to live and is a great system.
I completely agree with you, it is inevitable. Although it is funny that I am doing the reverse trip. For the first time on the way with micro 4/3. Greetings and thanks for your channel.
Great Video. I use a g9 and a gx8 and indo all the stuff, you typical use a fullframe Sensor. Weddings, concerts and Sport. And the quality is more than enough. Im looking forward to see an new GM5 or gx9 with a price under 1000 Bugs. That will be a big boost for the system.
I bought my first SLR style camera at age 38 last year and it was a Nikon Zfc. Within a few months I sold it and bought an Olympus E-M1 MKIII second hand. I’ve since added a G9II to my kit. I shot my first wedding with these cameras a few months ago and I’ve won photo contests with them. Sure, I have FOMO for a full frame rig, but I am getting the job done fine with the bodies I have.
Bought my G9 used from some guy who bought it new in (was in his 20's) just a few weeks ago. Sub 1200 shutter count for under $500 w/ a 25mm f1.7 lens.
Excellent video, well researched and presented. I have sold and re-bought my lumixes multiple times as I really love the weight, size and more importantly the colour science. It only takes one famous tik-tokker to put MFT back onto the map for the younger audiences.
The budget, mirrorless FF cameras from Nikon, Canon and Panasonic are very tempting and I think they are having an impact on M43 and APS-C sales. As a Olympus user for more than a decade, i love the system, but a couple of years ago, I upgraded to a Nikon Z-5, a budget FF mirrorless. it that was cheaper than the top of the line Olympus offering. I don't shoot any video, so it was a no brainer,
IK agree re. the camera body but FF lenses at f2.8 or wider are heavy and expensive. For me weight is an important factor when out in the hills for a full day. But we all need to balance our priorities and at the moment 35mm sensor size is paranmount.
You can buy new Lumix G85s here in Poland for like 400$. I think it's a great deal for a camera that has IBIS, 20MP, great handling, great menus, Weather Sealing, noce viewfinder, good video. I just bought a small Olympus body as a carry around camera because Samsung fucked up Raw editing on my S23 Ultra and have been enjoying it greatly :)
Thanks for this presentation of scenarios for MFT. Being a semi-prof for almost 60 years, I've used many camera systems, from 110, to 6x9, with cameras from Rollei, Leica (M's and R's) to Zeiss Ikon folders. Two years ago I bought a second hand Panasonic GX7, with some Leica glass. Conclusion: I love it, but.... I am still using all my other gear as well.
Excellent break down on the M43's Camera market. 7yrs ago when panasonic released the GH5 I jumped on it immediately to accompany my Canon 6D. The canon 6D didn't offer 4k and the fact the GH5 had 4k 60fps made it perfect for real estate video walk-throughs. I do believe that the GH series really did light a fire under Canon and Sony. I remember Watching a local commercial being filmed on the GH3 13yrs ago. It floored me. That being said, it is very hard to not be with a full frame camera now days with such clean high ISO's and similar cinematic features as the GH series. The funny thing is I didn't once use my GH5 for photography. It was an affordable 4k video camera that made it easy to produce professional quality videos.
@@angeloplayforone it is needed if you want to sell something. Without it some of there lenses have bad af and people like me spread this info i paid over 400€ fot my lumix 42.5 1.7 only to see that af is slugish and not relieable with this lense and a firmware from 2018! I use gh7 and it has great af with other lenses.
The best thing that holding MFT system as it is, is that there is no advancements or updations from Full Frame. Its common in every business. There is nothing wrong in MFT objectively. But manufacturers will favor the new trends. If another system comes ahead of FF, that will push the hierarchy to the Oblivion. Eg. The mobile technology CDMA
Five or so years ago both manufacturers had small, colourful micro four thirds cameras that they marketed at younger buyers. I still have a Lumix GM1 - small enough to carry anywhere in a pocket.
@@solidamber I’m 52, most demographic data stops at 65. It’s 65+, at that point, demographically, you’re old. As a side note, being old is a privilege, not some horrible affliction. I’m not sure why people seem to have an issue with the term old. It’s the cycle of life, you’re young, then, if you’re lucky, you get old.
@@johnG-x8l I am 65 and will take your advice to heart. That is exactly what I am doing too. My best friends are an 86 YO man and a 93 YO woman. Both in excellent health.
I need an OM-10, even if this would be the last OMDS camera to ever release. I have the em10 iv, just release that camera with more autofocus points and revamped menus and I'm sold.
You don''t talk much about it, but the biggest benefits of my OM1 are the lenses. They are cheaper, lighter and smaller for the same focal length and speed. For outdoor, travel and wildlife photography it's hard to beat the value and utility. The weather sealing is a plus. To shoot 600mm F4 on FF is too costly and cumbersome. I can handhold and focus on Ospreys in flight way better than by Canon FF did. It hold focus on the eye! In flight! All for a fraction of the cost. Oh, no argument about demographics - I'm 71. I think old guys share some other attributes: 1) We have shot everything, we don't give a shit about image (except IQ), we have money and we are not likely to suffer the weight of FF. You're wrong, The market does not dry up - the population ages. Duh!
I really hope to see OM System lean into the advantages of M43 and continue to add/improve the built in features for macro photography. I keep looking at buying into Olympus used specifically to take my macro photography to the next level with their superior macro lenses and focus stacking to larger sensor counterparts. I want M43 to succeed (and actually want to buy in), but I also want to see more affordable point of entry for new adopters (hey Panasonic/OM watch this video and read the comments). Right now if I were to buy in I'd likely opt to go used OM-D E-M1 MK III over a new OM-5 and to me that's telling because I should WANT to be looking at their latest offerings but I don't think there is enough of a difference in body quality to justify buying in new for a niche.
I'm a fairly old timer these days and yes, I use M 4/3. You need to be young and keen to want to carry heavy gear about and the sensor size is only one parameter. There are pros and cons and all the recent(ish) models are pretty well sorted. You are right, you can pack a lot of capability into a small bag with minimal weight and the cost advantages (excepting those high end recent releases you mention) are real. For the younger buyers, maybe they need to take a cue from Leica's recent D Lux 8 release. Thing to note is the didn't bump the core specification much if any, still the same 17mpx sensor under the hood, but refinements on style, controls etc. I expect that is to keep the size down, the more power you put under the hood, so to speak, the bigger they need to get, more cooling needed etc. It still has a viewfinder. I'm all for that approach, keep the size and cost down and just make clever refinements to improve the user experience.
The MFT grandpas might still buy OMS for wildlife and G9iis as well-featured hybrid cams but not GH7 pro video production cams. At Panasonic there is even a strong in-house competition from the S5ii with the light 1.8 primes and especially with slower but smaller zooms. It definitely needs a new compact MFT camera with really good app / online connectivity. In some aspects the S9 had some good points but is a misconception, to me.
After watching the video I wonder if I'm old now ;-) I think not at almost 45. I got a used G9 2 years ago. Previously with an old Nikon D3300. After 2 years, I haven't even figured out all the features of the G9. But I have now completely switched to M43 and have never looked back. Thanks for the interesting videos and lens tests. My "manual" favorite thanks to you: 7artisans 35mm for M43. My best portraits were taken with it. Thanks for your tips and tests and videos in generell - I hope the system stays around for a long time. Good closing words on the video. Simply discover, do and enjoy.
Thanks Mark for this very comprehensive and interwsting analysis.zMakes a lot of sense. I, in this system since 2010. Very pleased for the readons you clearly stated.My latest Lumix G9ii is just great with its new AF , features, colors and image quality.Happy with the veriety of lenses, eapecially the Leica ones(jv).
![BLACK BAG - Official Trailer [HD] - Only in Theaters March 14](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Du0Xp8WX_7I/mqdefault.jpg)
My Favorite Ultra-Cheap Micro 4/3 Lens (affiliate) - geni.us/yOmBF or geni.us/Hgbx
Please understand, sensor size is irrelevant for anything but lens combinations. Anything like noise, zoom, or macro can be done by any sensor size, IF paired with the right lens. What makes the FF superior is the lens selection. For any system, it's good enough provided you have the lenses you need for that particular sensor size.
APS-C F1.8 35mm = FF F2.8 50mm, everything is the same: DoF, noise (SNR), FoV, etc., so it's all a matter of lens combinations.
I kind of hate having to rely on aperture to brighten images, if I could stay f2.8 and above as well as 1/100 and above and the ISO just take care of the rest that would be ideal. Small lenses on a body that has phenomenal iso performance is what I want to see from micro four-thirds, or even 1". 😮
@@-grey You can, it's called auto ISO, then you dial in the rest manually.
I have a FF system (Sony), but just got into MFT (OM system) as a replacement for my APS-C dSLRs. I used the APS-C by far the most, and now it's MFT. Sure, more megapixels, and yes, with my faster lenses, the Sony FF is better for moving subjects in low light, but that's it. The FF system is big (the lenses, not the cameras), heavy, and very, very expensive. If young buyers can buy Sony FF, then they can afford MFT high-end cameras as well. If not, then stick to the camera phones, because point-and-shoots are being discontinued, and the same goes for bridge cameras and dSLRs.
The future is serious enthusiasts who pay for the best and those who stick with their phones. So, I do not think an MFT entry-level camera is a viable option in the current market.
Me and old men I guess 😂 great video. I still live in hope 📷
haha... At least you help even out the numbers!
@@markwiemels And Taylor Swift. I don't know any of her songs, but thanks to 43rumors I now know that she is using an Olympus E-M10 IV.
@@liselottepulver2819 OM System just needs for her to do a promo shoot with her using the m 4/3 camera and full frame might be dead 🤣 A lot of really young buyers will have OM cameras on their wish list, but that will also drive up prices!
You are a force to yourself and an inspiration to all of us MFT fans 🙂
He doesn't have access to many of the small MFT cameras because they're not sold in North America. They're very popular with people as young as 69¾
I shoot with a EM1 MIII and love the M43 system. I sell my work online and through galleries. At NO point has anyone said, "oh, I'm not buying your work because you didn't shoot it with FF" or asked what type/brand of camera the pic was shot with! Its the person behind the camera, not the camera!
A good photography is a good photography!
Hi Mark, to be fair, I watched the entire video rather than shutting it down after the frankly patronising start, especially for ancient people like me.
I am indeed one of those fossilised people who have spent a lot of money on a MFT + 4 Pro Lenses. To do this on an equivalent full frame would have cost twice as much, and for me, unaffordable.
I am not a good photographer, it will take me many years for me to get to any decent standard. My focus (sorry), is exclusively outdoors, so I tie in exactly with the OM1 profile.
Now hears the thing. One of the biggest demographic shifts in Western populations is the aging population. Most of us are fortunate to have property, retire at a reasonable age, and will have access to funds to purchase cameras and lenses that suit our arthritic hands, weak grips and not particularly wanting to lug heavy cameras and lenses around.
We also want to get into a hobby that generates outdoor actively and mindfulness. Considering the collapse in the overall camera marketplace, I would far prefer to be seeing niche cameras to this perpetually regenerating cash rich sector, than massively overpriced and oversized alternatives.
Full frame cameras are fantastic, they are not for me. But I have no intention of debating the cons and pros. I am happy that people are happy with what choices they made and then, politely, explain the positives.
Thanks for your video
Great points my friend. Completely agree. 👍
I’m with you. The cost is more than double for this hobby in full frame. Secondly as I’m getting older I have shaky hands and the ibis in my OM 5 is amazing. Thirdly I’ve taken some of my best pictures on this system
As someone who own m4/3 and fullframe and use them all for professional full time work… they all have their strengths and weaknesses. And as we’ve been hearing a lot more from influencers, there really is no bad camera. You can make magic with any of them, but like any tool you don’t use an impact driver to hammer a nail.
No mention of G9(ii) I see
he also didn't get into what young people buy... I think smartphones.
I really hope M43 doesn't die out and they manage to recapture the entry level market. The OM-1ii has some insane capabilities for wildlife photography and the GH7 has video features that beat cameras twice the price.
Buying into this system with a cheaper body would be very appealing for those looking to upgrade in the future.
I don’t get why m43 cannot make zve10 competitor that’s smaller and better… I have many m43 lens and need to use on a nice small camera…
I agree. Although I actually LIKE the large bodies, I definitely see the benefit of small bodies. The ideal, for me, would not only be more/new compact bodies, but then some compact premium lenses that are weather resistant. I'd LOVE to have a small, weather sealed camera to go along with my OM-1 and long wildlife lenses. Currently, there aren't many options.
Bought an em1 mark ii to learn a few months ago. I love the community around it. Check out micro four nerds.
read that as wildfire photography 😭
@@eyeamstrongest wildfire photography is actually unbelievably fun to shoot. It is by far my favorite 'landscape' to shoot. Being in Southern California I get to do it quite often 😅 the images I get are magical
I'm 42 and have been a M43 shooter since my 30th, in Brazil where there isn't even official sellers available. I have full frame and 1" too but my m43 cameras are chosen 95% of the time! Hope that after this video you might look at more M43 lenses too, your reviews are great!
I was just about to comment that I just picked up a micro 4/3 camera recently an I am not an old man! I then remembered I am in my mid 40's and younger photographers might disagree with me :) Also I have been buying micro 4/3 bodies and lenses recently on the used market and I am loving them. Mostly for their size and ibis, its a good time to play with great used cameras.
I'm 42 and use m43
I own an Olympus E-M10 III and it has amazing IBIS. I wish they hadn't effectively crippled it with 8bit video only. It's good for 8bit. But you can't tell me that 10bit would've been impossible with the hardware it has. Other than that it's my dream camera.
Haha, yes, after lugging around big camera bags with FF and APSC cameras and lenses for 10+ years I just now had enough and started building a compact m43 system for personal use. My requirements were:
1. Camera and lens need to fit in a largish coat pocket, or carry in strap without being too weighty and cumbersome
2. Significantly better IQ and photographic control than a regular smartphone / compact camera
3. Not too expensive
4. Equipment readily available
From my quite extensive reading, only m43 scratch all these itches somewhat. And with the decline of the "advanced compact camera" market, m43 is the only option for us who don't want to pay for and carry large FF/APSC cameras and lenses. Fuji /could/ be an option, but as m43 is already in the gray are wrt point 1 and 3, for a poor hobbyist, Fuji somewhat cross the line on both points, at least for me.
I really hope people wake up and see they dont need the latest FF mirrorless for family gatherings, but I will buy what I need to last me another 10 years, and if m43 is not fulfilling my requirements by then, I will evaluate and reinvest.
@@kreeeofmnht
Yup. I mean you can get all those things above in a APS-C or FF camera but for way more money. Or you can get a used good as new GH5 with a very ok kit lens for around 600 €/£/$ 🤷🏻♂️
No idea why someone wouldn't want a 4k 10bit hybrid shooter with great IBIS and usable AF for a little more than ½ the price of an Apple monitor stand.
You are buying second hand with does not contribute with the revenue of the manufacturer so no R&D money which lead the system to a death.
Great system, great cameras. No practical disadvantages. The rest is hype. Keep taking your best photos every day. Enjoy.
Uh, you forgot about the mediocre image quality.
Topaz lightroom even fullframe user use
32 years old, living in new york, sold all of my Sony and Canon gear (most of them barely a year old), and now fully invested in MFT. I have my E-M5 as my EDC, E-M1 for more purposeful photography, and a Lumix G7 as a B cam for either purpose.
I truly hope MFT doesn't die down, especially Olympus/OMD because I just love their design and colors. But, selfishly, I hope it also doesn't get too successful that their prices skyrocket ala Fuji and that the "cool kids" and "creators" take over the brand and system I identify with the most ala Sony.
Don't worry about price skyrocketing, lol, they will be happy if they can sell any with discount
As a Fuji shooter, lenses like the 23mm 1.4 LM WR (35mm f2 equivalent) being more expensive than an actual Sigma 35mm 1.4 ART is absolutely crazy and annoying.
I am an ex MFT shoter and now an fuji one:)) i loved the mft world but i needed some extra iso capability. But every time someone tells me that they want i camera, i sugest mft, because is more than enough for the begginers and enthusiasts
Fuuuck. I understand that Fuji one (as someone deleting TikTok and did not know about their "quirky" status in social media until looking for a XT model recently). I'm actually surprised why Olympus didn't take off, they look like Fuji models and so enjoyable to use
@@felathamekitty Olympus never properly launched their Pen line in the west. The problem with most of their other bodies is that they're simply too big to make sense for the small sensor, when you can buy other cameras of the same size that offer better image quality. But the Pen models are really great, they just screwed up by limiting them to Japan for some reason.
It's crazy that MFT is not more popular. It would suit so many photographers. Not just wildlife ones. The misnomer "crop sensor" is a real problem, I feel. Too many people think that FF is the only option.
Yes, the name crop simply implies inferiority.
I blame the social media trends. People buy into hype instead of being objective. Not only FF but also towards cameras like the X100 V/VI as compact shooters when many people would be better served with a more versatile GX9 or EM/OM-5. Heck, the X100V goes for $1500+ used when you can pick up a used GX85 kit for
@@NiSE_Rafter The X100 models is targeting fashion oriented buyers. This people buys the camera taking the style of the camera into consideration. So the X100 is a complete different product to other cameras .Talk to a marketeer and he will explain what is a product. Then you understand the difference.
FF is the Future.. They get smaller so there is no need for smaller sensors
@@GenX_in_the_wild Sure the bodies are getting smaller. But the lenses are not getting smaller and they never will. Bigger sensors need bigger glass.
Size is the whole point of MICRO(!) 4/3 to me, but it seems like the manufacturers are going in another direction with massive bodies and lenses.
I'm not a super passionate photographer who has a photography page on instagram and flickr. I just like taking pictures (sometimes) and I appreciate looking back at memories in higher quality. I have a GX9 with tiny lenses, and while that thing fits in a jacket pocket, sometimes I don't take it out because I don't feel like bringing extra stuff with me, even though it's so small. Sure FF is cool, sure it would be fun to geek out on the quality, but if I had a full frame setup, it would mostly just stay on the shelf at home because everything is bigger and heavier.
The EP7 is sold in the west, and is readily available in the UK and Europe at a really good price. Micro Four Thirds are a superb option for wildlife, macro, travel and sports photography (lightweight and pack a punch) because of the form factor. I use M43 Lumix and Olympus cameras, as well as full frame and APSC from Canon. I also shoot analogue with Leica, Canon, Ricoh, Olympus, but I normally pick up a M43 camera when heading out for a day, and my EDC is an M43 ... A Lumix GX1 or GX880 with a Lumix 15mm f1.7 Summilux, and it's made more versatile by having a tiny 15 - 150mm zoom.
You are lucky. I wish it was sold in America.
This is my travel camera, and when it breaks i don’t know wtf i’ll do, i refuse to go to the other cameras that are as big as my sony FF. They should come asap with the pen f 2. Bought it in Europe
And for Street let's not forget.
@@joncope9175 I ordered mine from amazon japan. It was easy and quick.
Very good point. Olympus PEN EP-7, released in 2021, was the first new camera released after OM Systems took over. While not a low-end camera, it is not for professional shooters and is available in Australia which, last time I looked, was a western country?
I've been into photography since I was 18, and my first camera was a Lumix G7. I still have it, and it's been awesome. I've grown to love it over the years. I've bought a few prime lenses over time, and my current favorites are the Lumix Nocticron 42.5 f1.2 and the 12mm Summilux f1.4. I love the Micro Four Thirds system because it's not as common as full frame or APSC, and it lets me show off how powerful it is.
Very good analysis of the state of affairs. I am a cashed-up old guy who has recently bought into the system to supplement my FF cameras. I agree completely with your summation: Doesn't matter; go have fun with your cameras.
I agree that it's all about fun, unless your a pro.
But if you shoot with FF users it's not much fun to compare images as photo clubs often do.
M43 is fine if you only surround yourself with other m43 shooters but it's easy to see why it doesn't get respect in the world of photography.
Except, of course, from those who are compensated to shill for m43.
I only recently got into m43 with the purchase of an EM-1 and a couple of el-cheapo Lumix lenses. The knock-on effect from the smaller sensor is truly amazing. My entire daily usable kit packs into a bag that's half the size and weight of the FF Nikon and Canon bags I lug around.
I am 78 years old. I am the very beginning of the Baby Boomers....to many companies, the cash cows. I have shot Minolta film cameras, and Nikon digital cameras for more years than I care to count. I continue to shoot, primarily, Nikon cameras. But....I also use a Lumix G9 with a gorgeous Lumix / Leica 45 mm macro and a small handful of other 4/3 lens. I've just ordered a G9II at a very competitive price. My Nikon and Lumix systems have different uses. I enjoy both. I totally agree that Lumix / OM Systems would benefit from offering a physically smaller body, as they once did. The G9II is no smaller than my Nikon Z6....but the lenses are significantly smaller. The combined package is smaller. Still, a small, even fixed lens camera, would be an easy purchase, not only for younger buyers, but for those who want an easy upgrade from their current primary camera....a cell phone.
I'm a working videographer that's been using m43 for a long time and really don't care for lugging around full frame gear around when a few GH6 can work so well for me with a good set of panasonic f1.2/1.4 primes and a set of f0.95 voigtlanders. I do make some use of shooting anamorphic nicely with the vazens as well. My kit is small, easy to pack and bring with me (fewer bags/cases) and still gives amazing quality at 4k with 10-bit internal or RAW (mind blowing considering the kit size) with an external recorder... its really amazing when you know what you're doing and lighting appropriately. Personally it's not a price thing, it's a size and utility thing. Nobody can look at my footage and tell its not FF.
Very informative Video, thank you ! I hope OM is watching this. Am I the only one who wishes for a Pen-F II (maybe with a titanium body)🙏🏻?
+1. Pen-F mkII or an EP7 successor with an included EVF would be in the zone for me.
or plastic so it’s lighter than the original pen f
I have a nice wooden grip on my Pen F …. why not a wood top and base plate !!!
new cheap end must have pics auto load up to phone for sharing … connectivity
full frame Canon user here. The kit is heavy and has a dedicated backpack. No, it's not "better" than MFT for any and all situations- that is why I ALSO have a MFT system . Smaller, lighter- and I can lug around more lenses in that format. Happy with both. Yeah I also have some APS-C older cameras I still use. There is no winner in format wars... only our wallets lose. If you can do this, it is best to have the right tool for the right job- or at least make do with something you like.
I really hope executives at Panasonic and OM Systems are watching this video.
Two cameras that the format needs to attract buyers:
- A truly small, compact and affordable camera (like the GM1)
- A full-feature camera (EVF, IBIS, weather sealing) with the latest 20M+ image sensor that is compact and under 450 grams (like the E-M5)
Totally agree. It should also be advertised for backpackers. Weatherproof and minimal weight. Size not as important as weight over hundreds if kilometers. Thats why i do not carry my sony gear. I just cant…
I LOVE my m5iii, has every feature I'd ever want, still relatively small and light, and oly pro lenses are boss
I am happy with GX7/Gm5 /em10 / lx100 😂
You got most of the thing on GM5 and it is really compact
Yes, an MFT equivalent of the Leica Q3 in 'reporter' garb and selfie capable for entry level. ~20mm non removeable Lumix style lens. Marketing: "For the Wide Wide World", "The Documentary Eye", "My Vision" ....
I have recently upgraded from the E-M1III to the OM1II. I also own several full frame systems, e.g. Nikon Z7, Canon 5DsR, Leica M10 and more. The 14 bit RAW file support in high red mode is a GAME CHANGER for landscape photographers who need to climb a mountain through miles of hiking to get to their photography location. These files can easily compete with my Z7 or 5DsR for detail and fidelity.
Some weeks ago i bought two used Lumix GX9 cameras and some small lenses for every-day-fotografie. I really love them, because they easily fit my kind of photographie. Do I want full frame? Yes, and I own two Lumix S-bodies. Do I need them? Not really.
Long life to Micro 4 Thirds! I love the system! Great video, excellent documentation! Having the GH6 and the OM-1 among others let me be a testimony to these powerful arguments! Thanks, Mr. Wiemels.
Im a 35 year old enthusiast travel, street, portrait shooter and traded in my Nikon Zf for an Om1ii. That Nikon Zf was an amazing camera, just a bit heavy with any lense other than their 28 or 40mm lenses. I wasnt tryning to lug around bigger lenses on an already hefty body. Also have a EM10iv , nice lil travel camera.
Just bought a G9ii, with a 15-60mm and added a 100-400 ii tele-zoom. This Dual IS combination makes a great smaller wildlife photography kit.
I worry about M43's future for still photography, but don't think the standard is facing peril because it has a strong presence in video and industrial cameras.
The only point I think you missed is that M43 lenses are so affordable. Usually 1/2 to 2/3 the price of their APSC counterparts.
M43 has a lock on the professional market, I think they represent insane value for videography, sports and wildlife genres. What will get them back into the playing field with everyone else imo is competing with Fujifilm in the fun and entry level market. They used to make small cameras and small prime lenses and it's high time they come back to it, maybe with their own implementation of in camera film sims. The biggest appeal for m43 is their size, but in recent years their pro bodies and pro level lenses are massive, comparable to even an APSC kit. If they can find their place in this niche they'd do very well I think.
I have a em1x as my "pro" camera. It's the one that pays my bills. I'm looking at an em1 mkii as a secondary/every day camera. Both fit a role. I shoot mainly portrait, but micro 4/3 is adept and works for me well.
It is indeed a highly undervalued and underappreciated eco system. Light, small, easy to use with excellent to phenomenal colour science
Olympus has a lock on pro market? I personally have not seen one single working pro using this system, i have EM1x myself but i always grabbed my Z9 or old even my old D5 or 1Dx when i have a important assignment, paid or none paying volunteer work.
@@dannyli9424 that's what they locked-on to but sadly fails to appeal to, because western "pros" are all about that bigger sensor size as if to compensate for something.
Old men buy M43. It's a hilarious insight, but what does it really tell us? Are young people buying anything at all? Have old guys with experience of photography just worked out that M43 is a great system?
I'd say (as someone who has worked in camera sales) younger, inexperienced photographers will go with the full frame cameras because they want the 'best' or at least have been told that a bigger sensor camera is the be all and end all. Canon, Nikon and Sony marketing efforts are massive and they're household names in cameras, especially the first two, probably Canon most of all. It's difficult to overcome that inertia with different camera systems that are relatively unknown outside of specialist knowledge.
Yes. It's the "biggest sensor", thing, and the hype of Sony giving their cameras to every youtuber there is. There is precious little on M4/3. It should be marketed as a young man's (and) trave/adventure/hikingl camera. I'm actually thinking of getting one for my son.
An interesting video for sure. I have an OM-1 Mk 1 and lenses and a Nikon Z8. I am in the “old man” demographic, and I use the Nikon for most of my wildlife photography and the Olympus for travel. Even if I was built like a tank (I’m not), I would tire of carrying around the big Z8 body with only one lens, but I can easily carry the OM1 with a couple of lenses when I travel, and I travel to some rather outlandish places where weather sealing and temperature tolerance is a big advantage. For me, these systems are complimentary. I get superb results from both. I do hope that M4/3 continues to thrive.
Very fair video. At 63, I am in the Micro 4/3 demographic. Still, I left the Olympus system because Cameras like the Z8 were getting smaller while Olympus seemed disinterested in exploiting the size advantage. I still kept 3 lenses for underwater use... the smaller camera is even more important inside a housing. OM System's outdoor wildlife and backpacking focus is luring me back in. OM-Systems needs to make a few lighter splash resistant long lenses. The 75-300 is perfect in size but lacks weather protections and is not sharp. That be the best lens in the line up.
Hey there.. I started with Canon HD Camcorders back some 15+/- years ago. When I hired a videographer, he had a GH4 setup, and that started my journey with Micro 4/3. I've tried APSC (canon M50, Sl3), Full Frame (Panasonic S5II, Canon R8), Sony (ZV-1 & RX10 IV), and more Panasonics (GH95 & FZ-2500). In the end, they all can produce some great photos and videos if you know what you are doing. But for me and my workflow, including peace of mind with usability, I just bought two used Gh5 II cameras and moved over the 12-60 lenses from my G95s. It's the feature set and the ease of the production process that trumps everything for me. I'm a solo creator now, and I can trust these to deliver time and time again. These cameras work for me, and I have enough of an investment in micro 4/3 lenses to cover most situations. And I still have the full frame options if I "NEED" to utilize them for a particular shoot. I'm not "loyal" to the micro 4/3 format, I am loyal to anyone who creates an easy-to-use and manage system with feature sets that help me reliably and efficiently create content.
Thanks for the video.
Cheers
Rick
p.s. I'm 54.. one of those old guys with micro 4/3 ;)
It's funny, I bought a new to me Panasonic G9 and searched RUclips for tutorials on it. My first M43 camera. I've seen a range of ages from teenagers to "old men". Even a few ladies.
In my 20s, bought an OM System OM-1 and I'm in love. I have no complaints and I won't need another camera system anytime soon. The quality of this camera is superb and I like the M43 sensor. + the cost factor and size factor is a big one, The Olympus 12-40mm f2.8 zoom is TINY compared to, say, the Sigma 24-70mm f2.8 for Full Frame. This camera is so much fun to shoot with and I can't wait to get another lens with different focal lengths. Would recommend M43 to anyone wanting to have fun with photography!
It's not a format I recommend.
@formermpc10 well luckily I do recommend it ;)
I was 44 this year and am coming back to photography after a few years out. I trialled all the sensor sizes, bought a Fuji X-H2 and an OM-1.2 and ran them side by side for the summer. All the Fuji kit has just gone to MPB. It's not that I disliked the Fuji, but I just clicked more with the OM. Size, ergonomics, and user experience. I appreciated the lighter lenses, I appreciated the decent weather sealing (of the pro lenses), and the RAW files are half the size of the Fujis.
That being said, I wish OM weren't so hell bent on focusing on birding and wildlife - I don't think that's doing them any favours. There are so many other genres of photography that they'd be brilliant for, but they just ignore it.
Olympus strategy is correct in focusing on birding and wild life. the m4/3 technology with it's smaller sensor and smaller lens for long zooms is predisposed to taking photographs at high burst rates and at long focal lengths. If Olympus wants to focus on street photography and landscapes with wide angle lens, full frame cameras would beat the pants out of them. Olympus would have been bankrupt some time ago.
The old Oly and Panny camera are good for street photography. I recently bought a E-PL7 and it is fantastic for that purpose.
I think this was one of your best videos. I think it is great when you survey retailers and try to corelate it with the official postions of camera manufacturers.
thank you for all the informations. Lumix GH7 owner here hoping to see an f/0.95 lens with autofocus soon
I am starting a new film production company and our main camera is the Pen E-P7, it has a 20MP sensor, about 13 stops of dynamic range and a great ibis too, you can even create your own LUTs inside the camera. It is compact, never overheats and has no crop in 4K. I got it for €450. Most of us are in our 20s. Nuff said 😂
You may wish to consider ZCam E2M4 for film production.
@@travelbagphotography I tried it,but did not like the form factor.
I bought my first MFT camera (the Lumix GF1) in my twenties back in 2009, then the lovely EM5 mark I a few years later, before "going full frame" for while. I then kinda lost interest in photography and cameras for a while, until I recently bought a used EM1 II, a GX800 and an E-PL8. I can't help but love the system with its quality lenses - and hope it sticks around forever:)
Depth of field is not just useful for macro photography. It's useful most of the time for all kinds of things. And it allows wider apertures which means that you don't need such high ISOs. f4 gives you "f8 of FF" depth of field. Straight away you've reduced your ISO by 2 stops. So it ends up not any noisier than FF.
Hi Mark, Thanks for the video. New image editing software may help overcome some of the perceived issues about resolution of cameras with smaller sensors and give M4/3 a boost. One issue that I have not seen discussed is the pros and cons of the 4:3 aspect ratio sensors vs the 3:2 aspect ratio sensors, which are in current full frame and APS-C cameras. The smaller sensor area of M4/3 cameras means that lenses can be smaller but presumably the sensor shape also helps. The image projected onto the sensor is circular and larger than the sensor, so the sensor effectively takes a crop from the circular image. I presume that a rectangular sensor that is closer in shape to a square would need a smaller circular image (and so smaller lens) than a rectangular sensor that has the same area but is more elongated in shape. If so, the lens size advantage of M4/3 compared to current full frame and APS-C systems is due to a combination of smaller sensor size and the difference in sensor shape (4:3 vs. more elongated 3:2 aspect ratio). I have not seen this discussed anywhere so please correct me if I am wrong.
I have followed your argument with interest. I am one of those "older" photographers. It has been 55 years since I took my first photos. Dozens of cameras have passed through my hands. My first encounter with the MFT format was also quite a while ago. A walking tour through the Himalayas made me decide to leave the heavy Nikon equipment at home. The professional full-frame Nikon is still there, but I almost always reach for one of my MFT cameras. For street work an Olympus Pen F and for telephoto and macro work the Lumix G9. A collection of light, affordable and manageable lenses. Razor-sharp prints (40 x 60 CM). They will not earn most of it from me anymore. I cannot think of anything I lack.
I own a PEN F, an OM-1 and my latest addition, an E-M1X, combined with the 17mm F1.8, 25mm F1.8, 8-25mm F4, 60mm F2.8, 45mm F1.2, 40-150mm F2.8, 300mm F4, 100-400mm. Looking forward to get the 12-40mm F2.8 and the 12-100mm F4. Call me an old man.
What good content, I really think you haven't missed anything, I happen to live in Japan and the M43 is still very popular there, it goes very well with the Japanese philosophy of making things more compact and efficient. In my case, I use various devices and sensor sizes. One of my favorite activities is to go out on my mountain bike and take photos. Therefore I need lightweight equipment that I can carry in an external bag so I can grab it quickly. I used several compact cameras, Canon G1X, G7, Pentax Q and finally OM5. The OM5 is a fantastic small camera that, accompanied by good fixed optics, provides excellent results.
The meaning of the M43 was always its portability, lightness robustness and price. The problem is that lately the M43 has forgotten these founding principles, they have made increasingly larger bodies, more voluminous lenses and prices even above competitors with larger sensors that have also already equaled the technological advances that the M43 had. long ago. In forums you will always read Lumix GX, GM and Olympus Pen users asking for updated versions but in Lumix they go the opposite way, like the atrophied S9.
I am an old man and had Canon equipment. When mirrorless came I discovered that price on lenses were rather high. Further Canon equipment was heavy and big. I switched over to Fuji for my street photography and OM-1 for wide life. But for street I almost have switched over 100% to sony's pocketable Sony RX100 V and VII.
As long as full frame is bulky, heavy and big and there are softwares that manage noice in an excellent way light weight and small is the future for non proffesionals.
You must not forget the older man are skilled photographers and move from Nikon/Canon to m43 and aps-c. And they now their software and noice is not a big deal.
Great discussion without any grinding an axe one way or the other. I had the opportunity to be able purchase and extensively use every DSLR and mirrorless system with the best of cameras and lenses until about 8 years ago when I got my hands on MFT. Before the MFT I suffered with carting so much gear around when I went on shots. I really spending 400 dollars shipping a Pelican case of cameras and lenses when I was doing a shoot in Yellowstone park. After switching to MFT I was able to put two Olympus MFT bodies and every possible lens I might need into a carryon backpack that went under the seat in front of me. This was perfect. I started out shooting film in the 1950s as a kid and haven’t stopped. I lived in Alaska for 30 years doing many outings and shoots that required rugged equipment. I had extensive collections of Nikon, Canon, Sony that I really liked, but as I got older I just didn’t want the weight. As I have mellowed with age and don’t seem to get around to life threatening adventures. My life is pretty much spent traveling by plane, car, or ship. I picked up a Leica Q when they first hit the market and still have it. I have added a Leica M rangefinder with spectacular manual focus glass. I couldn’t resist picking up a SL2S Leica. I have sold off all of my Nikon, Canon, and Sony gear. I still have and am keeping my 3 Olympus MFT bodies: and almost every great lens that Olympus made. I agree that this is a great outdoor camera. Indoors, I much prefer the Leica cameras and non of the MFT cameras I had did very well punching the ISO up much. I presume that most high end full frame cameras these days can handle higher ISO and deliver better dynamic range. I have never had a camera that is anywhere as weather resistant as my Olympus MFT cameras and many of the lenses. Sadly, the small Leica M system is not very weather resistant, so when I travel to wet countries I feel like I have to babysit the Leica. Absolutely, no concerns about the Olympus.
My little brother (22) wanted a new camera under $1000 with kit lens to upgrade from his iPhone. Initially I though m43 would be a good fit since he wants it for travel, hiking, wildlife, landscape…but the only options at his price are the ancient Lumix G7 and less ancient but still 4yo OMD EM10 iv. He ended up with a Sony a6400 which is also pretty old now…it seems like there are very few new options at lower budget. Canon has some new APS-C cameras but their lenses are so expensive, cheaper now with third party APS-C lenses. Idk much about Nikon, maybe the Z30 could’ve been an option.
The problem here is the "new" requirement. A Lumix G90 / G91 / G95 is not ancient and can be bought for under 500€. Which leaves enough budget for a Pana Leica 12-60 lens. That should be a pretty decent beginner combo if no animal AF is required.
@@hendrickziegler8487 IMO buying used is a very enthusiast idea. My hobbies are PCs and cameras so the used market is very near and dear to me. But in my experience most of my friends or family or just random people on Reddit, when they enter this space they want something brand new with a warranty. Part of Mark's analysis was young people buying into a system, and I think for that demographic, you need a brand new budget option that is relatively recent, even if its a minor refresh. It's just a bad look when you google Lumix G7 review and dpreview's article on it is from 2015...
LUMIX G100 is $600. Excellent for hiking and backpacking.
@@crserrano Wow I totally forgot about the little G100. Would've been a great option!
The G85 is about the same price as the G7 and is a step above it.
One big advantage for the smaller sensor is not the smaller body, but the way smaller lenses for equivalent zooms, at least on the longer side. And even for the same focal lengths, some weight can be shaved off due to the smaller required imaging circle.
Micro four-thirds has exactly 1 role to justify its existence to me: Making big kit small.
Now that comes in two flavours. The first, is taking those mega size ultra techy sports and wildlife set ups and making them into the size of a regular full frame camera with a 70-100 - they seem to be pretty committed to this one and doing it well still.
The second is taking the mid range prime rangefinder style set up people love for travel/street/doc and making it pocketable and snappier - they have dropped the ball here almost entirely.
We basically only need the OM-1/Lumix G9 + Pen/GX9.
IMO the big issue with m4/3 has been that in order to squeak out better image quality esp. Olympus/OM has been using full frame lenses with m4/3 mounts. Basically almost all the Fuji film lenses i have are smaller than the m4/3 lenses of similar focal rage. Now people will go "but!" and make an excuse, but it defeats much of the appeal of m4/3 if more modern APS-C camera/lenses are smaller.
@@genevostok agree. I also hate the direction Fujifilm is going for optical perfection currently with their 1.4 glass. It's full frame size and weight. No thanks. Fujifilm are supposed to be jpeg machines with no grip and character lenses - that's how they can justify terrible AF as a feature like Leica. 👋
Best, most informed and balanced assessment of m4/3 I've seen on youtube. I have EM1 m1, EM1 m2, OM1 m1, and the Ep-7. I thought I would sell the EM1's when I upgraded to OM1 but they're such good back up bodies I can't let go of them, for all the reasons you've stated
Wow, you've spent a lot of money on cameras!
Old man on a budget here! Like many of my group, I got tired of lugging my heavy FF gear and jumped into M43. Love my "old" used Olympus E-M-1 (original) and some perfectly fine used lenses I've acquired over the past couple years at a total cost that's less than a new mid-range camera. For my needs, I'm very happy with the capabilities of this system.
I'm so old I'm using my original Olympus 14-45 F2.8-3.5 4/3 lens on my G7.
My original 4/3 was an Olympus E300 that I just replaced with a Lumix G7.
The Old lenses work well on the new body and are amazing glass.
I'll be sad to see MFT cameras go away when that universal format has so many possibilites.
I've been shooting digital since about 1993 and 4/3 was a promise of opening up the world to a new standard of interoperability that hadn't existed till then.
I've got some terrific MFT lenses including the Lumix 42.5/f1.7... But my old semi-pro 4/3 lenses are still there with full electronic compatibility.
I haven't tried my old Zeiss t* 50mm 1.4 C/Y manual prime on the new body, but I'm looking forward to seeing how well all my old gear works with a ten year newer 16MP body.
I've been shooting since 1975 or so when I got my first 35mm. Gone through Yashica/Contax, Canon, Nikon, and Rolliflex film cameras. Published weekly pictures in a paper with abou 25,000 circulation for several years, and lost a pile of negatives and prints over moves to europe and back a couple of times.
Love digital and have a half dozen storage devices with my files going back to 1996.
MFT may be a niche format, but I suspect it's gaining popularity with the pros that do outdoor street, or wildlife photography simply because of the weight advantage over full frame cameras and lenses.
Even for consumers a MFT mirrorless body and pancake lense can drop in a pocket and provide features only the most expensive cellphone cameras offer.
My EDC is a Galaxy S23, with my G7 bag in the car/truck.
This morning I dragged my E300 bag in, and realized it weighed about five times what the G7 bag and the same number of lenses did.
I can see pros using their full frame sensor cameras in studio and formal assignments, but having a MFT system for mobile/casual shooting on the side.
The glass on the market right now has incredable values in excellent lenses, wonderful video lenses, and inexpensive lenses that cost a fraction of what we used to see.
I've got a 25mm F1.7 manual lense that cost $80, weighs hardly anything despite being and all metal build, and shoots excellent quality images. It only adds 2 inches to the depth of the camera verses the 10 plus inches of my 4/3 50-300 F2.8-3.5 zoom.
At 70+ and shooting casually these days I'm a 4/3 and MFT lover.
Another way to look at it is that M43 is shot by photographers with a lot of experience. I shot Nikon film cameras for around 30 years, switched to D70 and the D80, and then M43. I’ve gone through several, buying used and trading in or selling old ones.
I’m currently using an GH2 for microscopy, a GX85 for most work, and a GM5 that fits in a pocket for hiking. Compact M43 cameras don’t attract attention like big DSLRs. No one stops you and says “You need a permit to shoot here.”
32 here. Bought my first digital camera last month and chose a GX85. I take it everywhere. Just shot over 2k pictures over 2 days in Gettysburg. I love the camera and this system and hope it stays around for a long time and continues to be developed.
I wonder if there are many people like me that will not buy MFT, because almost all of them have flippy screen. I'd love the OM-1 or G9II, but with two-way tilt instead of the flippy. Or some nice, compact camera with two-way tilt, like gx9, but also with proper AF.
Interesting. In New Zealand there are plenty of younger people using m43.
Esp video shooters. Having said that I think Fuji has probably taken a fair bit the market that would have bought m43ds, at least since Olympus looked doomed.
I am 40 + and just bought OM1 and I love it
I was given an EM10 Mk4 as a handme down. I am so impressed with it that I am going to trade it in for the OM-1. Don't need the Mark 2. Even though I have a Nikon Zf i like the M4/3 environment. As long as there is someone to service my cameras and lenses if anything goes wrong, I am set. The Olympus system is my macro setup. Love the JPEGs that come out and the colors in raw are amazing. I am in my 30s and I got into M4/3 system very recently
Thank you. This was an excellent, well-researched video that cut through all the hype and negativity with Micro 4/3.
Interesting to introduce the very good used market as positive for the system. This is just because so many have left MFT. But it is great for all of us still using it. I recently bought a lens I never ever thought I would use: the Panaleica 200/2.8. It was offered even new for a fraction of the launch price. And yes I’ve used it a lot for shooting outdoor sports. Great fun.
4:30 Placed an order on the OM-1 Mark 1 Kit with 2 Lenses on the sale on September 30th. Was 40 years at that point of time. Went to sleep, woke up and was 60. Do not reccommend!
I bought the OM-1 mark ii in the spring of 2024, was 45 at that time. I am now 85 and never photographed better! 😂
Thanks for the report. I downsized from Sony FF to M43, two years ago. I ordered an E-P7 from amazon JP. And I started to enjoy taking my camera with me again. The lenses made a huge difference when travelling. I bought an OM-5 for those rainy or bright sunny days.
Yes I am in US and 64; but who counts the years and the ISO numbers.
I need a good camera for my long hikes and backpacks into the mountains..often 15 mile or more days and elevation gains of over 4000 ft. I also need a solidly built camera with no question about its weather sealing and with strong photographic features. M43 and needed lenses are often small and light which is key. That said, some of the Sony APSC cameras get close; often with strong video features, but less on the photo side. Image quality between m43 and APSC is effectively the same for most uses, but APSC cameras these days are often smaller, so very tempting, but I’m not sure as durable. Do wish Pan and Om would focus on small and light once again! BTW I’m 67.
It is about choice and priorities. I have moved on from APSC cameras. Full frame 35mm sensors are my preference. The M4/3rds market share is not the issue. It’s not about camera size or lens sizes either. It is just about finding a camera system you like. I like my full frame Nikon cameras. My Z9 is about as large as I want to go. My Z6ii is quite compact. I see no need to go smaller. (Mid 70s ancient guy).
Montreal based here, what I have seen in the past was mostly younger folks with Olympus, now mostly Fuji or Sony, the small APS-C. I have not seen a Panasonic/Lumix in ages, over 10 years. This is in the downtown area or in various tourist sites and the Botanical Garden.
These days, most people buy their gear online, with younger buyers usually going to Amazon after checking out reviews on RUclips. Camera store data tends to show more older customers, since they prefer shopping in person. But the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) system is still popular with creators and hobbyists, so reports from stores may not give the full picture, especially considering the younger crowd shopping online.
Not just men! I’m in my 60s and started using the mft about ten years ago when my Nikon became too heavy to use all day while travelling. I have only bought 2nd hand and have had a blast with five I have had so far. I’m looking forward to a trip to Australia with the 75-300 lens I recently bought for bird and nature photography.
As a macro photographer there's just no beating MFT. I hope it sticks around.
I've always loved the size of 4/3 and I went all out on Canon full frame (and yes L RF lenses). The partner wants to learn photography but does not want all the bulk - and now we have a 4/3 customer. Here I am. I need to learn some new things but this format is literally perfect for a beginner manual photographer. (due to price/features/size)
I'm on the cusp of 39. I've mainly invested in Canon RF--I've got an R5, and R6, and an R10, with a mix of RF and adapted EF lenses. I used to have some m43 gear for hiking, but I sold it all a couple years ago. Then I recently bought an E-M1 Mark III as a lighter complement to my other stuff, a long with a couple lenses. I think I'll probably stick with just one m43 body at the moment, but the ergonomics, weather sealing and image stabilization are all excellent. I'll probably use it in conjunction with the R10 for hiking (don't like swapping lenses mid-hike). I hope m43 does have a future, because it really is a great system.
35 here. Purchased an em10 mkiv in July. Recently upgraded to a g9ii. Decided to stick with micro four thirds because I didn't want to invest in lenses all over again. I have no idea what I'm doing. I fit that "I just want to do better than phone pictures" market. So far I'm really enjoying it. Im happy with both cameras so far. Im blissfully ignorant when it comes down to the details of it all, but I'm okay with my decision so far.
I enjoy both my a6700 hundred and my om5 they both have their strengths. I think we have to see these sensor sizes as its own thing and not compare them. I like to use the car analogy for cameras. the micro four thirds being a four cylinder the apsc six and full frame 8 cylinders. They are all important in achieving different objectives efficiently.
Ps I don’t consider my self to be too old but I am 37. Excellent video Mark as always. I
I just got myself a used Olympus EM-1 III a couple of months ago in additional to my existing 4 Lumix cameras and an Olympus PEN F body. The weight and size advantage of M4/3 as a system is unbeatable (the keyword here is "a system"). The image quality is good enough for me as a hobbyist who shoots photos only although Lumix camera are famous for their video capabilities. And I truly appreciate these two camera manufacturers' generosity in releasing camera features to their customers. They are the best in the industry (exact opposite to Canon, which I also own several). I also enjoy their innovative and practical lens offerings at a reasonable price, especially in Hong Kong. M4/3 camera makers should be rewarded for these reasons alone.
I'm 33 and i love my m43 because it's small and packed with features, and all my lenses with my lights and mics and the gimbal fit in a mini backpack that barely holds my 14" laptop, so no, not only old people, I have a full frame canon gathering dust because it doesn't fit my portastudio setup
The irony about the size point at 6:25 is that modern full frame lenses (and some bodies) are now as big as the medium format setups of the past - while the place to go for the compact experience of classic 35mm cameras is APS-C and m43. Just look at the size difference going from a Super Takumar 50 1.4 to today's Sigma Art 50 1.4.
I am an old young man of over 62, and I am very happy. In anticipation of what Canon will bring us in the way of full frame lenses and cameras at the end of November, I sold my Canon R3. as canon tried to plunder my bank account with a big and heavy one. RF 200-500 F/4 lens and a large and heavy R1 camera body, then I will seriously look at the M4/3 system from Om-sytem. I see many very good and beautiful results. So if Canon wants to keep me on board, they have to get to work
I am a A retired American Service man living in Bangkok... I don't know about U.S. buying habits but in much of SE asia, many folks still buy and use M43 (all ages) Tho many of us also have full frame as well... I currently use an Olympus EPL9 and some lenses...Cheers ( my fav full frame is a small A7c and a couple of lenses).
Mark, I thank you for presenting a fair review of the Micro 4/3 system. I agree that this system may not last. However, I find a lot of value in it. Personally, I have a wide variety of cameras, many of them pro level. 35mm and 120 film cameras, digital FF, APS-C, and MFT. As I get older, I am moving to lighter cameras and lenses since most of my photography is outdoors. The high quality and feature rich MFT cameras fit my use case very well. Even if they quit entirely, I still can use all my cameras and lenses to photograph anything I want. So, for me, it really doesn't matter what happens.
I am a MFT shooter since I bought my first camera 20 years ago and went through the whole Olympus Lineup. Recently I bought a canon full frame camera to jump on the bandwagon. Was quite surprised how small the difference is in reality. Even when it comes to autofocus, Olympus latest firmware update puts them head to head. One thing that was not mentioned in the video is just how much smaller the image circle is in MFT compared to full frame making for lenses that are much smaller in diameter. After experiencing the difference, I am not worried MFT is going to live and is a great system.
I completely agree with you, it is inevitable. Although it is funny that I am doing the reverse trip. For the first time on the way with micro 4/3. Greetings and thanks for your channel.
Great Video. I use a g9 and a gx8 and indo all the stuff, you typical use a fullframe Sensor. Weddings, concerts and Sport. And the quality is more than enough. Im looking forward to see an new GM5 or gx9 with a price under 1000 Bugs. That will be a big boost for the system.
I bought my first SLR style camera at age 38 last year and it was a Nikon Zfc. Within a few months I sold it and bought an Olympus E-M1 MKIII second hand. I’ve since added a G9II to my kit. I shot my first wedding with these cameras a few months ago and I’ve won photo contests with them. Sure, I have FOMO for a full frame rig, but I am getting the job done fine with the bodies I have.
Bought my G9 used from some guy who bought it new in (was in his 20's) just a few weeks ago. Sub 1200 shutter count for under $500 w/ a 25mm f1.7 lens.
Excellent video, well researched and presented. I have sold and re-bought my lumixes multiple times as I really love the weight, size and more importantly the colour science. It only takes one famous tik-tokker to put MFT back onto the map for the younger audiences.
The budget, mirrorless FF cameras from Nikon, Canon and Panasonic are very tempting and I think they are having an impact on M43 and APS-C sales.
As a Olympus user for more than a decade, i love the system, but a couple of years ago, I upgraded to a Nikon Z-5, a budget FF mirrorless. it that was cheaper than the top of the line Olympus offering.
I don't shoot any video, so it was a no brainer,
Canon R8 user agrees.
IK agree re. the camera body but FF lenses at f2.8 or wider are heavy and expensive. For me weight is an important factor when out in the hills for a full day. But we all need to balance our priorities and at the moment 35mm sensor size is paranmount.
Buying a FF camera after a MFT camera isn’t necessarily an upgrade. The OM-1 offers many specs not many FF cameras can match.
You can buy new Lumix G85s here in Poland for like 400$. I think it's a great deal for a camera that has IBIS, 20MP, great handling, great menus, Weather Sealing, noce viewfinder, good video. I just bought a small Olympus body as a carry around camera because Samsung fucked up Raw editing on my S23 Ultra and have been enjoying it greatly :)
g85 is 16 mp I think
@@lustgarten You're right
How is g85@@lustgarten
Thanks for this presentation of scenarios for MFT. Being a semi-prof for almost 60 years, I've used many camera systems, from 110, to 6x9, with cameras from Rollei, Leica (M's and R's) to Zeiss Ikon folders. Two years ago I bought a second hand Panasonic GX7, with some Leica glass. Conclusion: I love it, but.... I am still using all my other gear as well.
Excellent break down on the M43's Camera market. 7yrs ago when panasonic released the GH5 I jumped on it immediately to accompany my Canon 6D. The canon 6D didn't offer 4k and the fact the GH5 had 4k 60fps made it perfect for real estate video walk-throughs. I do believe that the GH series really did light a fire under Canon and Sony. I remember Watching a local commercial being filmed on the GH3 13yrs ago. It floored me. That being said, it is very hard to not be with a full frame camera now days with such clean high ISO's and similar cinematic features as the GH series. The funny thing is I didn't once use my GH5 for photography. It was an affordable 4k video camera that made it easy to produce professional quality videos.
No new lenses coming is q problem. Lumix did not even firmware updates for their old lenses when the new af system was introduced.
Maybe releasing firmware is not profitable
@@angeloplayforone it is needed if you want to sell something. Without it some of there lenses have bad af and people like me spread this info i paid over 400€ fot my lumix 42.5 1.7 only to see that af is slugish and not relieable with this lense and a firmware from 2018! I use gh7 and it has great af with other lenses.
The best thing that holding MFT system as it is, is that there is no advancements or updations from Full Frame. Its common in every business. There is nothing wrong in MFT objectively. But manufacturers will favor the new trends. If another system comes ahead of FF, that will push the hierarchy to the Oblivion. Eg. The mobile technology CDMA
Five or so years ago both manufacturers had small, colourful micro four thirds cameras that they marketed at younger buyers. I still have a Lumix GM1 - small enough to carry anywhere in a pocket.
The images coming out of the Panasonic GH7 are making me think about going back to using M4/3 for my main travel camera.
When I was 40 I thought 65 was an old man as well.
@@solidamber I’m 52, most demographic data stops at 65. It’s 65+, at that point, demographically, you’re old. As a side note, being old is a privilege, not some horrible affliction. I’m not sure why people seem to have an issue with the term old. It’s the cycle of life, you’re young, then, if you’re lucky, you get old.
@@johnG-x8l Love this comment and advice.
@@johnG-x8l I am 65 and will take your advice to heart. That is exactly what I am doing too. My best friends are an 86 YO man and a 93 YO woman. Both in excellent health.
65 is old, 85 is vers old, 105 is a challenge 👻
@@johnG-x8lThanks for inspiration..
I need an OM-10, even if this would be the last OMDS camera to ever release.
I have the em10 iv, just release that camera with more autofocus points and revamped menus and I'm sold.
You don''t talk much about it, but the biggest benefits of my OM1 are the lenses. They are cheaper, lighter and smaller for the same focal length and speed. For outdoor, travel and wildlife photography it's hard to beat the value and utility. The weather sealing is a plus. To shoot 600mm F4 on FF is too costly and cumbersome. I can handhold and focus on Ospreys in flight way better than by Canon FF did. It hold focus on the eye! In flight! All for a fraction of the cost. Oh, no argument about demographics - I'm 71. I think old guys share some other attributes: 1) We have shot everything, we don't give a shit about image (except IQ), we have money and we are not likely to suffer the weight of FF. You're wrong, The market does not dry up - the population ages. Duh!
I really hope to see OM System lean into the advantages of M43 and continue to add/improve the built in features for macro photography. I keep looking at buying into Olympus used specifically to take my macro photography to the next level with their superior macro lenses and focus stacking to larger sensor counterparts. I want M43 to succeed (and actually want to buy in), but I also want to see more affordable point of entry for new adopters (hey Panasonic/OM watch this video and read the comments). Right now if I were to buy in I'd likely opt to go used OM-D E-M1 MK III over a new OM-5 and to me that's telling because I should WANT to be looking at their latest offerings but I don't think there is enough of a difference in body quality to justify buying in new for a niche.
I'm a fairly old timer these days and yes, I use M 4/3. You need to be young and keen to want to carry heavy gear about and the sensor size is only one parameter. There are pros and cons and all the recent(ish) models are pretty well sorted. You are right, you can pack a lot of capability into a small bag with minimal weight and the cost advantages (excepting those high end recent releases you mention) are real. For the younger buyers, maybe they need to take a cue from Leica's recent D Lux 8 release. Thing to note is the didn't bump the core specification much if any, still the same 17mpx sensor under the hood, but refinements on style, controls etc. I expect that is to keep the size down, the more power you put under the hood, so to speak, the bigger they need to get, more cooling needed etc. It still has a viewfinder. I'm all for that approach, keep the size and cost down and just make clever refinements to improve the user experience.
Mark - I always enjoy your thoughtful analysis and this piece is no exception. Many thanks.
The MFT grandpas might still buy OMS for wildlife and G9iis as well-featured hybrid cams but not GH7 pro video production cams. At Panasonic there is even a strong in-house competition from the S5ii with the light 1.8 primes and especially with slower but smaller zooms. It definitely needs a new compact MFT camera with really good app / online connectivity. In some aspects the S9 had some good points but is a misconception, to me.
After watching the video I wonder if I'm old now ;-) I think not at almost 45. I got a used G9 2 years ago. Previously with an old Nikon D3300. After 2 years, I haven't even figured out all the features of the G9. But I have now completely switched to M43 and have never looked back. Thanks for the interesting videos and lens tests. My "manual" favorite thanks to you: 7artisans 35mm for M43. My best portraits were taken with it. Thanks for your tips and tests and videos in generell - I hope the system stays around for a long time.
Good closing words on the video. Simply discover, do and enjoy.
Thanks Mark for this very comprehensive and interwsting analysis.zMakes a lot of sense. I, in this system since 2010. Very pleased for the readons you clearly stated.My latest Lumix G9ii is just great with its new AF , features, colors and image quality.Happy with the veriety of lenses, eapecially the Leica ones(jv).
Congrats on 100K subs - Well deserved.
Thanks!