Why I'm SWITCHING from FULL FRAME to MICRO FOUR THIRDS | PENTAX K1 to PANASONIC G9
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 22 фев 2019
- I have finally bitten the bullet and downsized from Pentax K1 full frame to Panasonic G9 micro four thirds. I love Pentax and have being using their cameras for over 40 years. In this video, I discuss why I'm changing and demo some shots to dispel some of the common (mis)beliefs about micro 4/3 cameras.
I hope you enjoy.
------------------------------
Follow me at:
www.iansmissenphotography.com
/ iansmissen
------------------------------
Photography, video and editing
Ian Smissen
Music
On My Way Home (Sting) by The 126ers
Old Friend by Silent Partner
------------------------------
Gear I use:
Cameras
- Panasonic Lumix G9 Camera amzn.to/39bpNNs
- Panasonic Lumix GX8 Camera
- Apple iPhone Xs
- GoPro Hero 4 Silver
Lenses
- Panasonic Lumix 12-35mm f/2.8 Lens amzn.to/3bnvsl4
- Panasonic Lumix 35-100mm f/2.8 Lens amzn.to/3a9bXMG
- Panasonic Leica 100-400mm f/4-6.3 Lens amzn.to/2QEIR09
- Panasonic Leica 8-18mm f/2.8-4 Lens amzn.to/3bleWly
- Panasonic Leica 12mm f/1.4 Lens amzn.to/2vIylO5
- Olympus M.Zuiko 60mm f/2.8 Macro Lens amzn.to/2xXgNhO
- Panasonic Lumix 25mm f/1.7 Lens amzn.to/3blBXEU
Filters
- Nisi V5 100mm Kit (now superseded) V6 Starter Kit: amzn.to/39cELmf
- K&F Concept ND2-ND32 Variable ND Filter amzn.to/2J9QWG0
Tripods
- Jobu Design Algonquin Tripod
- Jobu Design BWG-HD3 Gimbal Tripod Head
- Really Right Stuff BH-55 LR Tripod Ball Head amzn.to/39a0Dyr
- Sirui N3203X tripod + Sirui K-30X ballhead
- Davis & Sanford TR553-P228 Traverse Super Compact Tripod + Ballhead amzn.to/33E3nDe
Gimbal
- DJI Osmo Mobile 3 for Smartphone (Combo) amzn.to/2UzyXOe
Drone
- DJI Mavic Air (Combo) amzn.to/33LhN4v
Audio
- Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Microphone amzn.to/3bgWnij
- Rode SMARTLAVPRode Microphone for Smartphones amzn.to/2UyIZ2p
- Rode VMGHORode VideoMic On-Camera Shotgun Microphone amzn.to/2Usiify
- Zoom H1N Handy Recorder - amzn.to/2UdqUI2
- Apple iPhone 5
Camera Bags
- Mindshift Gear Backlight 26L amzn.to/2xhbk59
- Tarion RS-01 Canvas Photography Bag amzn.to/2UzBdFc
- LowePro Sling amzn.to/2WBvUYA
This is the first time I have heard a logical and sensible argument for changing your camera gear. Some people become obsessed with chopping and changing equipment with the focus on parading the “latest and greatest” kit. I’m a wrinkley with arthritic hands and you have clearly demonstrated that you can change gear and not diminish your photography at all. Those new to photography and the more experienced in the art ought to view your video before they consider their equipment needs. Many thanks for this excellent video.
Thanks Tony. Glad you found it useful.
…and thanks for reintroducing “wrinkly” to my lexicon…been a long time since I heard that one 😜
You made the right choice! Any disadvantages of M43 is way, way over blown by people who never use or own M43 cameras. I personally have M43 and a Nikon D750, but my go to camera is the Olympus E-M10.2. Why? Because I can take fantastic images and especially in situations where I find it difficult to use my D750. I do a lot of street and travel photography and the D750 plus lenses is a serious issue for size, weight and not being able to be discrete in the way I have to take images.
t Lim Thanks for watching and your comments - much appreciated.
I have the same combo and love the m43 for travel. The livecomp and bulb features are also quite fun. I’m also a former Pentax user having used the K3/5/7 for a decade.
Well said yes I was a idiot and listened to the bloggers about mft dying and sold my Olympus gear and I can say it was the biggest mistake I have made (photographically wise) 😥 I now have Sony gear that sits in the cupboard as the lenses are all to big to carry round.
Cannot agree more. Same here.
I am stunned and elated the Sony crowd has not passed through here. Nikon D200 and Oly EM5 mk2 here. Love M43! Truly underrated format.
I just switched from Sony full frame to Panasonic G9.
Sony builds great cameras (with shitty menus).
But lens prices are ridiculous and the weight is more than I want to handle.
did you enjoy your decision now it has been a few months
I actually had both systems, Sony A7R4 and Lumix G9. Ended up trading the G9 and lenses (100-400 mm, 12-60 mm both Lumix Leica) including a Fuji X100F, to purchase Sony lens. While I enjoyed the Lumix cameras and system, the focusing was still just not as accurate as Sony and the IQ is still better then the Lumix.
sony got the worst software ever!
One of the few intelligent appraisals of the strengths of M43 it’s uses in specific circumstances !
Beautifully paced and delivered .
It looks like you have made the right choice for your needs and preferences. Logically reasoned and well presented. You make a strong case for MFT.
Thanks Christopher. I'm happy so far (but haven't sold any Pentax gear...yet...). Cheers, Ian
Dedicated 43 year Nikon shooter here: The siren song of M43 is luring me towards Olympus. I am about to give in.
Tom Burchill Have a play with a few models and see if they meet your needs. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Amateur photographer who is picking up hobby after a 25 year break & will miss FM2N & F2, but moving to Panasonic M4/3 based on cost & quality.
I've only been shooting Nikon for 12 years but I already use the Canon m-50 for youtube. Thinking about going Micro 4/3 instead of investing any further into the m-50 or Nikon Z mount. What to do.
I shot a pretty slim Pentax in film days. I don't use the long/fast glass that Ian does here, so size/weight wasn't as big an issue for me as it was for Ian. Even so, Olympus won me over to 4/3rds because of the in-body image stabilization, AND the ability to adapt almost any film lens to the mount (still with IBIS), great color rendition, and ergonomics. 8 MP was plenty for 8"x10" and enlargements when you view it from far away enough to see the whole picture. The self-cleaning sensor is really effective, and it gave me confidence to change lenses and use my camera for years without requiring service/sensor blowers (which all suck). I have to admit though... several of the m4/3rds lenses are small enough that I can put one or two different primes in my jacket pockets, wear my camera on a sling, and go bagless on a lot of shoots with a lot of capability.
Flash forward to November last year... Now, Panasonic has IBIS, nice JPEG color, a few stops worth of improvement in ISO performance while still stepping up to 16 or 20MP (more freedom to crop), and you really can't beat Panasonic for a stills/video hybrid. Olympus' new M5 mkIII gives Panasonic's models a run for their money though, and is almost Panasonic's equal except Panasonic does have nicer menus for the less common settings. The Olympus' autofocus is really interesting, with Phase-detect AF (like film cameras and 4/3rds) and Contrast Detect AF (like all "live view" cameras today) providing more autofocus compatibility and better Continuous AF, but Panasonic's CDAF is extremely competent and I have no complaints for most situations. Sony has some cool rangefinder form-factor models, nice sensors, and also have models with both CDAF and PDAF, however the IBIS isn't as good, their kit lenses aren't very good, and their best glass is designed for full frame sensors (APS-C can use them) so they have the same big and heavy problems as the Pentax. I would be happy to have the latest Panasonic or Olympus models, but I think my weather-sealed, dual-control-wheel, quiet shutter, wonderful ergonomics G85 will serve me well for the next 7-8 years.
Tom Burchill As a former Nikon shooter do it. I love m43 now. Would never go back.
Oh man, I am you!
"I ache in the places where I used to play ". Arthritis and age turn me away from my beloved Pentax gear towards MFT. Thanks for sharing this.
Excellent Video. Possibly the best explanation with examples of why micro four thirds is a viable option for so many of us!
Gerry Beltgens Thanks Gerry, very kind 😀
Welcome to a fantastic format, and I hope that you will be as satisfied as I am.
I have used the 4/3 format exclusively since I left 35mm film for digital. I liked the idea that Olympus and a few others started with a clean slate and looked at the digital sensor and decided that near telecentric lenses were important and then came up with the optimal size of sensor. My film camera was a Canon A1, and my digital camera is an Olympus e5, 12 mp dslr. I honestly don’t see why there is such a perceived problem with the 4/3 sensor. I am not a working professional but I have sold prints via Fine Art America 30” x 15” from a cropped image. I also have prints that large at home on my walls, and they are perfectly fine, not grainy or banding or soft.
Hi Guy, thanks for watching and your comments - both much appreciated :-)
Thanks Ian, nicely explained. It's what I needed to hear.
Cheers for posting this clip, learned a lot.
Glad I found your channel Ian! Some really nice work.
Thanks Terry Lovejoy. Hasn’t been much activity recently due to some health issues but hope to revamp the channel soon. Cheers Ian
Well stated, I can’t agree more. My G9 is fantastic!
martyptx Thanks 👍
Great video! Loved seeing your photos with the G9. I went from a Pentax K-r to the G9 very recently. I love the G9 which is feature packed to say the least. Great weather sealing, dual system IBIS and stabilized lenses, fully articulated screen, super fast frame rates, 80 mp high resolution mode, huge EVF, dual card slots etc etc. Also Panasonic's video capabilities leave Pentax way behind. Appreciate that a seasoned photographer such as yourself has given it a thumbs up! Hope to see more of your photos, just subscribed.
Steven Harte Hi Steven, thanks for checking out my video and taking the time to comment 😀 I am looking forward to deep diving into the feature set of the G9. Cheers, Ian
Great video! I went from decades of Canon to Olympus micro 4/3. I really did like the smallness of the camera and the much smaller lenses. Over the next 5 years of shooting Olympus the longer DOF and noise at higher ISO (more so loss of detail) started getting to me for certain shooting conditions. I still have my Olympus gear but ultimately I switched to Sony. With the right lens choices you can get smaller lightweight glass and still have great ISO capabilities with short DOF. The size of my a7III with the Tamron 28/75 f/2.8 is still very small and only ounces heavier than the equivalent Olympus setup. I really did enjoy using micro 4/3 for several years but I'm happier now.
Thank you for the informative video. The photos are technically difficult and you've put the G9 through its paces.
This all makes perfect sense to me. The proof is in the pudding - and your photos tell the story. I went from Canon to using Olympus and Panasonic for both personal and professional work about 4 years ago (stills and video). The dynamic range is better on the MFT. The "noise" is manageable in low light higher ISO's and actually renders very well compared to Canon. The Olympus I will say is stellar for stills, but so is the G9. The glass choice is huge in the MFT world. The results have never disappointed me. Nor my clients. A good decision for me personally and never regretted it. Your body will thank you, and you'll continue to enjoy making art pain and stress free. Hopefully. Excellent video presentation.
Thanks Alex :-)
I thought Eric Clapton was switching formats for a few seconds.
Eric Clapton on steroids ;).
Hahahhahaha
This is a very good and informative video! I have shot on multiple cameras, from full frame to m43, and honestly if the exposure is correct and the framing is right its hard to tell what you shot it with.
Many people cast away m43 becuse of the smaller sensor size leading to poorer low light performance and less depth of field. But honestly it's not as bad as some people make it out to be. The fact that you can carry a full array of lenses with a camera body and not break your back while getting similar performance to full frame is amazing! Thank you for the video!
Have just come across your video. Great stuff. Having just bought the same camera after a lifetime of Canon I am beginning to love it. Hasn't been easy (old dog........New tricks!!) but getting there, and finding it much more impressive than I imagined it would be. Like you I was finding carrying all the Canon gear just too much these days and if I only took out some of my lenses, I never had the right one I needed with me. I tend to photograph birds and wildlife mostly and the dual stabilisation makes such a difference in the ability to take more hand held shots. Anyway, have subscribed and off to find some more of your videos. Many thanks for your reassuring review of the G9.
If you think the current FF lenses are big and heavy, well, you're in for a surprise. The latest Nikon and Canon FF mirrorless camera lenses are even bigger and heavier! Out of curiousity, I had a look at the Nikon Z6 and some of the new lenses and just could not believe how much bigger and heavier they are compared to my current Nikon D750 plus 35-70/24-120, 50/1.8 and 90/f4 macro lenses!
Excellent video. Thank you. I learned more than just about the MFT system.
This camera and lens combo is incredible !
You made a god choice, it's so versatile and light weight :D
I have been a Pentax K-1 FF user for about 2 years now and while I love the system and the quality, the weight is often an inconvenience, for sure. Thanks for the review and comparison, because I've been considering adding a lighter system to my arsenal.
What a lovely video Ian, full of informative content delivered in a most articulate way, I have only just found your channel so I look forward to more new videos and catching up with your existing catalogue, I have used the Olympus 4-3rds system for a few years, taking mostly Landscape and Seascape images, and if you can get passed all the rubbish talked about system by the ill informed, I just love it, regards, Colin.
colin clewley Thanks Colin 😀
Yeah, I expected the trolls and flamers to rant up as soon as I decided to do this video but everyone is entitled to their opinion. Thanks for yours 👍
Nice well put together video and some good observations. Thanks
I made a similar decision about 9 years ago when I purchased my first 4/3rds camera (Panasonic GF1). I, like you, started with Pentax (SV purchased in the 1960's followed by the LX in 1984..amazing camera with a removable prism and light metering through a semi-transparent mirror right off the film). I transitioned to Nikons (film and digital) but after having a stroke in 2009 realized I could no longer handle the weight of the larger lenses. I've shifted to the Olympus cameras for stills (with Panasonic GH's for video) but also love the 100- 400 Leica lens. I recently picked up the Olympus EM1X and have absolutely fallen in love with it's features. I don't mind the larger form factor (I always pick up the vertical grip anyway) and have found the pro-capture mode amazing. It's like taking pictures in the past. Taking much of my kit with me as we travel is invaluable!!
Been using M43 for three/four years, at first alongside Canon 5DSr, now Sony A7R3. I like M43 for the same reasons, light on the knees and light on the pocket. Last year I took a lot of images with both systems that I didn't edit until November. To my surprise most of the keepers came from my G9, perhaps because the best camera in the world is the one you have with you. Don't get me wrong, the Sony 16/35 2.8 is better than any M43 wide angle zoom (sharpness, colour depth, exposure latitude), and Sony eye focus is great for portraits (the 85 1.4 is out of this world). But going on holiday, or hiking, my 69 year old knees don't want to carry massive weights. And the G9 produces great images for A3 printing or displaying on a 55" TV. I shall continue to run both systems.
Hi Tony, thanks for checking out my video and taking the time to comment. As I have said elsewhere, there will always be a place for different systems for different folks. Cheers, Ian
Sony better than Panasonic? Only if you want to workout whilst being an artist at the same time.
@@soundknight Hi Brian, which Sony cameras and lenses do you use?
Fantastic video, very educative and beautiful images, Thanks a lot!!! Best of experience with your camera and adventures....!!
Thanks Uday, much appreciated :-)
Thanks for that; just discovered you and looking forward to many G9 Aussie vlogs. I've had my G9 for about a year and enjoying and still learning how to get maximum benefits from its many features. Good to see Australian content with this top camera.
Mike in Oz
Thanks Mike :-)
Let me know if there's anything in particular you'd like to see - no guarantees but I'm always happy to take requests.
The whole point is, that we wouldn't have known what this images were shot on had you not told us. As an old boss of mine used to say, 'if it LOOKS right, then it probably IS right'!
Thanks Keith :-)
I used to do quite a bit of photography when I was younger but that was on film. I have had some point and click digital camera's but wanted to have a bit more control back. So the wife said I should buy a new system. Now my shoulder and neck are not what they used to be when I was twenty so I searched for something portable. I fell in love with micro four thirds. And contrary to every RUclips commenter out there (so it seems) I am a full on amateur . I take pictures of the wife, kids and cat augmented with some travel shots. And the quality is amazing. People might whine and moan but they forget not all film was great, not every roll was developed right and not everyone's kit was top of the line. I just love taking pictures again. I hope you too continue to enjoy these nifty cameras.
12:21 that's a marvellous shot. Truly the best camera is the one that you have with you.
That Leica 100-400 lens is amazing - it was a recent purchase if mine and one of my very best!
That was a really good demonstration of the system, thanks.
Brian Cullen Thanks 😀
Good stuff, I have the G9 as well, love it.
Liked and subscribed.I love the way you approach this topic.
You've just convinced me to invest in some of the pro lenes been using mft some four years now gx7 gx8 but just budget glass great video and work mate thanks:)
Blackwing Visuals Thanks! I have always been an advocate of high quality glass.
Excellent presentation and eliminates many of the questions I may of had in relation to camera weight and ease of carry, thanks. I still lean toward the Pentax K1 Mk2'
Thank you Ian , you have just convinced me that I am on the right track, that I am about to change to Panasonic
Shane Allwood Good luck with your decision. I spent months researching and looking at options and it’s been the right decision for me but everyone has different reasons, likes and dislikes. Cheers Ian
Really intereting video. I think you made the right descision for taking tele shots.
Great video with helpul tips and strong arguments.
Just a couple of months ago I've restarted in m43. An old GF1 and a tiny and convinient GM1. It's my new dream team cause it can be taken to anywhere, and can swap bodies or share one with my wife when we are walking around. With a 12-38 kit lens, voigtlander 40/2 (F nikonmount) and a takumar 105/2.8 or Nikkor 135/2.8 ai-s. A little side bag that no one notices, even at a musuem on last weekend I was shooting while a nearby security guard was stopping some guy with a gimbal. Nobody cares about my palm-sized GM1😉
Two legendary cameras (GF1, GM1) -- absolutely enjoyable to shoot with.
I was thinking to upgrade from a apsc, and you convinced me to get a M43
I don't think you'll be disappointed :-)
Great review Ian. Loved Pentax too, but have gh5 and g85 and blown away by performance and size.
I made the same decision for much the same reasons about 8 month ago. I went down the Olympus path with an e-m1 mk2 originally coupled with the Pani-Leica 100-400. I did find for me the cross manufacturer thing didn't work as well as I would have liked and I ended up part exing the lens for the Oly 300mm f4. I'm more than happy with the results whilst recognising there are some areas where mft will struggle to compete against larger sensors. So no I'm not selling my D500 any time soon but the Oly setup has become my default go to.
I was fortunate enough to have a play with an em1x last week and now have one on order. My back has forgiven me since not carrying the Nikon around daily even if my bank manager has his doubts.
Very well explained. I for one look at the option of owning a full frame but its so nice to carry a Micro Four thirds kit that i cant see myself with anything else. For the outdoors is amazing to carry such a small system.
Miguel Sanchez el aventurero Thanks for watching and commenting. Cheers Ian
Looks like the G9 a great fit for what / how you shoot and I always say its important the photographer finds the gear that fits their needs (which varies widely from photographer to photographer). Great observations regarding size and weight too - I think size and weight is so often overlooked in reviews in the pursuit of ultimate IQ IMO.
I'm still really enjoying my K-1 but then I don't have a need for long focal length or f2.8 zooms and I really enjoy shooting with small primes like FA 31, FA50 and FA 77 limited (and a bunch of old lenses that still look great). The DFA*24-70 does not appeal to me currently, but when I want WR the relatively small / light DFA 28-105 does a great job (quite close to DFA*24-70 IQ but obviously slower aperture).
Jonathan Wilson Thanks for watching and commenting 😀
Awesome! Made the same decision about 10 months ago leaving behind 30 years of Canon shooting.
There is also some seriously sharp glass in the Olympus line that marries very well with the Panasonic line.
The Oly 40-150/2.8 and the 1.4 matched tc will rival anything I’d used in the Canon line at less than half the weight and physical size. It is completely possible to carry everything from 16-800 (equiv) in a small shoulder pack and still produce magazine publishable images all the time..
One other thing that I’d suggest. Check out Capture One software. IMO it has the edge over LR and I use both but def prefer C1.
Nice video, well executed.
Aloha!
David Croxford Thanks for watching my video and taking the time to comment. I am looking at the Olympus 7-14 in preference to the Panasonic 8-18 but will need a filter adapter to cope with the fixed petal hood. Cheers Ian
Would that Oly 40-150 AF-C work as well on the G9 without support for DFD on that lens though?
Delightful Vegans Hi and thanks for contributing to the discussion. I haven’t tested any Olympus lenses on G9 yet but will take my camera into store and test first hand before paying out $$$
@@IanSmissenPhotography Hi Ian, I nice fair assessment. I use the Olympus 7-14mm for real estate work and for landscapes I love that lens in portrait. But beware, it is prone to flaring. When zoomed out, the built-in hood actually pulls further back exposing the bulbous glass, so a strong directional light, even from 90° to the side can create unwanted flare, so I'll often use my hand to shield it. It is however a very sharp lens virtually free of barrel distortion
Alex Reay Thanks Alex, flare is inevitable with bulbous front elements but it’s usually manageable with manual/hat etc used for extra shading. Just need to be careful to avoid getting your impromptu sun shade in the frame. It looks like a wonderful lens but will need a 3rd party filter system adapter. Thanks for contributing to the discussion and sharing your experience.
I love my G9 for travel! I'm excited to have another youtuber with the same camera as me. I hope to learn a lot from your future videos.
Joseph Bonifacio Thanks Joseph 😀 Let me know if there’s anything you’d like me to do a video on - no promises but I like to hear what people want to see. Cheers Ian
I'm just about to buy a GH5 mostly for video. This is the first photography oriented video and I am seriously impressed by the image quality with these powerful zooms. Excellent focus and clarity.
Great video. Love those bird photos :)
Ingólfur Arnar Thanks for watching and your comments...and, yes, the sharpness if the Panasonic lenses is impressive.
After all, the best camera is the one you have with you. I'm sorry to say that my 43 year dedication to Nikon gear is nearing its end. As I've aged, I am finding it harder and harder to carry a FF kit all day. MF43 seems to be the most sensible compromise between weight/bulk savings and image quality. Yet another compelling video for this format. Thank you.
Hi Tom, thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. Everything in photography is a compromise - just need to find where the 'sweet spot' is for our own challenges, needs and aspirations. Cheers, Ian
You're a big contrarian I must say. Respect for that !!
Karun Verma Haha Thanks (I think) 😜
Have to admit I really enjoyed your down to earth Australian review! No nonsense but humorous at the same time.
Thanks Baz, have to keep these a little bit light :-)
Of course
welcome to the club - I've got Olympux EM10, with an eye on the EM1
Anthony Kernich Thanks 👍
I totally agree. As an amateur photographer, after years loyal to Canon EOS system I switched to M4/3 and I am very happy. Not only for the reduction in size, which makes me take the camera more time with me, but also due to the hybrid photo-video capabilities.
Pablo Matsumoto Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment - both much appreciated.
Thanks for your thoughts, as a fellow Pentaxian (since the K1000 days) it resonates. Now I have a K-70 and a decent suite of lenses, and while I'm very happy with the quality, it's a lot to carry. I have been eyeing M4/3, especially for birds and other wildlife. Ironically I see the most wildlife when I'm quietly setting up a landscape shot, so maybe I just need two systems :) But you also highlighted a few things that make me think it's time to switch completely. First, the AF on the Pentax is so bad. I haven't really minded, because "back in the day" there was no AF, and we still shot wildlife! But one test session with good AF is a spoiler. I bought a used OMD EM1 (mark 1) and it really is a pleasure to use. The AF is quicker, the stabilization is better (1 second on the OMD vs about 1/10th on the Pentax). The IQ of the K70 is still noticeably better, but the OMD is a 4-5 year old camera, so not a fair comparison. Everything about "ease of use" is pushing me to switch. Not sure I want the EM1-X, but if they came out with a EM1-mark 3 I'd probably jump.
Nicely thought out video, Ian. I am sure you will get great results from this system. I use full frame (Nikon D850) but also use micro-four-thirds frequently and I am convinced that, for most purposes we use our equipment, nobody sensible would ever tell the difference provided that the photographs are made by a competent photographer. My only serious wish is that Panasonic (and Olympus also) would have concentrated more R&D on actually reducing the weight of their lenses. Of course we like that their lenses are beautifully built (at least the parts we touch and feel) but, seriously, none of us are getting younger and I would have preferred high quality glass that weighed even less.
Derek Midgley Thanks for watching and commenting 😀
Excellent points, I'm an Olumpus user who's considering going in the other direction to a full frame mirrorless system which is around the same size as the bigger micro Four thirds system but with a with bigger sensors and more megapixels. I love the Olympus but when paired with pro lenses the weight savings are negible when compared to a full frame with native lenses.
Fantastic explanation!! No need to say anything else...thanks for posting..
Greg Delgado Thanks for watching and your kind comments😀
I really enjoy the real world approach to this video
Thanks 🙏
you have just explain'd exactly why I have just changed to MFT, the size and whaight is a killer when carrying full or cropped sensor cameras and lenses when you get older.
The Panasonic G9 and Leica lenses are amazing, the quality are easily good enough for most if not all amateur and hobbyists.
Great vid keep it up .. from dull and wet UK
Great video and confirmed what I have just done and moved from Nikon D3s to the G9 - If I had seen this video before I bought I could have save the sales person a stack of time. I shall now be able to handle the gear so much easier and as you say without always needing a tripod.
Thanks
Doug Welch Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment. Best of luck with your new journey 😀
Nice video with lots of information. It is refreshing to see because I feel like to many photographers are blinded by their brand loyalties. Also the FF thing - FF is great but I see many shots by many people that do not justify it's cost, or size - they could of used other systems for the same result. I feel FF is often adopted by users because bigger is better more pixels etc. Clearly you are wise enough to know exactly what your need and go after it. The right tool for the right job.
Dave Mac Thanks Dave. Yes I love my FF Pentax but too many compromises unrelated to IQ so opting for a take anywhere system.
Great video regarding this topic. The most important point in this video (in my opinion) is that it is your decision. And you took your time to share your reasoning as to why you made this move so that perhaps someone else may come to the same or similar conclusion. I agree with your conclusion, as I too have been using MFT for over ten years now. The key is to know the limitations of MFT and focus on the results. If your happy, then it works. One can analyze the comparisons between MFT and FF all day and as you said you cannot change physics. MFT will lack in dynamic rage, low-light performance but does it provide enough?... well for me, yes. And MFT cameras have had loads of features and comfort advantages long before the current FF Mirrorless entries (which are great) that have made them not only convenient but FUN to use for a decade now. When you compare them all-together they make a very viable alternative to larger systems. Ultimately, the best camera is always the one you have with you... and with MFT that is more often than not. Thanks for the video :)
Renato Cachina Thanks Renato for your kind and considered comments 😀
I am moving to MFT, and your video among a few others I have checked out lately, have helped me make my decision. Thank you!
Rodney Kimbangu Thanks for watching. I don’t think you’ll regret it if you have the same challenges as me. I am loving the IQ and ease of use of the G9 and lenses.
@@IanSmissenPhotography Thank you very much. I am a lot more confident with my decision.
Superb breakdown
Good stuff mate! I also have a micro 4/3 olympus. Just don't forget to multiply the aperture of your lenses by the crop factor as well as your focal, and you'll achieve the same results with both systems. So my F/4 400ml for my micro 4/3rds is like an 800mm F/8 on full frame (that's part of the reason the lenses are so small) - exactly the same results on both as long as I adjust for it. So for what it is, when I'm with family taking pics of my friends - my Olympus is perfect for that (or for travel!) - Cheers /Chris.
did exactly the same thing a year ago...still have my K1 and lenses..don´t know why really, it´s only collecting dust nowadays...havn´t regretted the change a bit ..walking with dog and camera everyday with lighter steps now :) ..Great video !
Mats Olsson Thanks for watching and your comments - much appreciated.
Nice - first time I’ve come across your channel. You’ve made some great observations about MFT and what advantages outweigh the bulk and cost of full frame DSLR these days. Sub’d.
Hi Reginald, thanks for watching and subbing. Glad you enjoyed the video. Cheers, Ian
As a multi-decade Pentaxian, And still fondle my P67s, I just downsized to a M43 travel kit - Olympus Pen-F! Wow!
Hah! I'm selling my K1 and K3 and going all in on Olympus. I have the E-M10mk2 which I pair with a Lumix 20mm pancake lens. It'll fit in a coat pocket and it's very sharp. For travel M43 can't be beat.
love my E-M5 MkII. No regrets
...Until you see the ugly CA produced by the 20mm on a Olympus body....
@@godofhope You were wrong. Loving my kit.
I have the 20mm. What would you choose for your next lens for casual photography?
Good advice about testing the camera/lens in-store. And if you're really thinking about going to a new system (switching or even first-timing it), consider renting as well. It's funny, but getting into a system -- any system -- is like getting married, and in fact, marrying into a family. And yet we don't usually get to date!
I did this a little when I switched from Canon to Olympus M43, between 2012 and 2018. I bought my first M43 camera, an Olympus Pen E-PM1, the "Pen-mini", as a replacement for a P&S camera. I used it way more than the P&S, but still, my Canons were my serious cameras. Then the original OM-D came out, and I bought one, mostly out of nostalgia, since the OM-1 has been my first real camera. That was a very good camera, but I wasn't entirely sold on mirrorless yet. Some years later, I got the OM-D E-M1 Mark II, and that really became a game changer. I gradually used Olympus more, Canon less, and got pretty similar results in most situations. What I didn't expect, though, was that off-tripod, the Olympus actually did better in low light than the Canon if your subject wasn't moving, thanks to the uncanny IBIS. This was also pushed by the fact that much of my photography is on long walks, 10+ mile hikes in the country or exploring new cities. The 25lbs Canon bag was replaced by a 10lbs Olympus bag with more lens options!
Curious astronomy features. The Astro-tracer on Pentax cameras is brilliant, and they're the only ones with it. But the Starry Sky Auto Focus on the OM-D E-M1 Mark III is also unique -- the only autofocus that works on star fields. These need to be in one camera!
I agree with your assessment, I bought a Fuji xt3 mainly for video, but its great. I will be keeping my full frame Nikons.
I have just bought a G9 after already having D750 ..Canon R..6D etc. Until you buy a G9 you will not understand how incredible they are and loved the video Ian. Ps I bought the 12-35 f2.8 and the Oly 40-150 f2.8. Both lovely lenses.
Gary - thanks for watching and I am sure you’ll enjoy your new kit. I agree - I thought the Pentax K1 was the best camera I had used but the G9 is a dream to use. I always tell my students that the camera won’t make you a better photographer - practice will - but when you enjoy using the camera so much you will practice more! Cheers Ian
Great video. I still have some Nikon gear but it is rarely used, I have a GX9 and a couple of Olympus bodies, glad I switched. Getting older and really was not interested in hauling a heavy camera bag around with me.
More cameras is always better :D I have K-5IIs and I love it. Size is perfect for my hands, and combined with 17-50 2.8 Tamron it gives me everything I need. However... K-1 is something else
I made the same decision as you, for the same reasons. I really like your real world examples that illustrate what you gain and lose by making the change. For me, full frame technology places restrictions on me that I really don't want, nor have, to endure.
Hi Surfey-Liker thanks for watching and commenting. Cheers, Ian
I feel that you will be an excellent photographer, whatever system you use, after all if you are not comfortable with the full frame why use it, enjoyed your video. Look forward to seeing your Panasonic images! I'm sure it was difficult to give up the full frame tho.
Thanks Mate - much appreciated! Definitely difficult to give up FF esp. having waited so long for Pentax to produce one but time to move on.
Excellent showcase of the MFT format!
Thank you kindly!
Awesome video! Been using m43 for over 5 years. I’ve been laughed at, a lot. Standing by the stage, with a press pass, shooting with a 45mm Olympus 1.4, standing next to all the canon/Nikon people. Then my images come out and my colleagues would actually get upset, lol. Now everyone is moving towards mirrorless full frame. Lol. So expensive and still not quite small enough for me. A real shame that m43 didn’t catch on. Now lumix has full frame? I hope that doesn’t kill m43. At any rate, the g9 is almost perfect. I don’t think I’ll need an upgrade until some very new, never heard of technology comes out. I absolutely love my g9, best camera ever. The only shortcoming is star photography. That’s it. I have an older camera for the rare time I want a pic of stars with a black background. Time lapse galaxy shots come out quite well with the g9 though, and I like those better.
Darth Hader Thanks Darth. Yeah, haven’t tried astrophotography with the G9 yet but most amateur deep sky astrophotographers are using cheap old DSLR cameras because a lot of the image quality comes from stacking hundreds of relatively short exposures rather than one high quality single image. Waiting for a clear sky night to do some testing. Cheers Ian
You do a great chat intro Ian, quite the orator . They say you get smaller as you age , I know...full frame but now GH5 and the H-FSA100300Mk Ii. It is a beast but your 100400 is a nice piece of kit. Have you used the Panasonic Image app to remotely pull focus, I have seen examples of around 30 yards plus to pull from one bird to another within a foot of two of each other and the detail is amazing, from pristine sharpness to wonderful depth blur in such a tiny distanced subject from a tripod range of 30 yards or more .. no shake at all . It is a really good app if your lens links to it .
As a few other below have said , you made the right choice and I can understand you wanting to hold on to your historical effects but hope you don't fall into the trap of holding on so long the re-sell value crashes . Thoroughly enjoyed watching and learning and you have a new sub.
Great video. If I didn't shoot one myself, I would have been skeptical.
I did a lot of photography in the 70s. Lots of B&W darkroom work and even shot a couple of weddings, gratis for friends who said they couldn't hire a professional. As I went to grad school and faced lots of professional obligations photography got lost in the shuffle. Several years ago I picked up a small digital compact for a European trip and then decided I wanted to a real camera again. Looked at all the main players and always in the back of my mind was the haunting feeling that because of size and weight, I'd leave it at home or leave it in the car trunk or... I wanted something manageable for travel, and hiking, and biking, and even skiing. And I like to carry something that's pretty inconspicuous for street photography. When the original E-M5 was released I felt it offered the best compromises for my needs. I've been shooting m43 since. Though I still ski a lot and don't want to admit it, I'm kind of an old guy. I'm not as steady holding a camera as I once was. And I don't want to carry heavy gear. And I don't want gear to get between me and my family and friends when traveling. It's really worked well for my uses. All of the systems and sensor sizes present compromises with advantages and disadvantages. None are ideal for everyones needs and we are blessed with a huge array of photographic tools that far exceed anything available just a few years ago. And, I'd wager, far exceed the ability of most of us to see photographically.
Both formats have their pros and cons. I had a Canon DSLR for six years and the issue I had was lugging around the weiighty camera, lenses and dedicated flash gun. In the end, I gave into the Olympus M43 ecosystem and never looked back. The 7-14 mm pro wide angle lens is a marvel of optical quality. It's the only lens I use.
I was a huge Pentax fan from the film days, bought an APSC-C Pentax DSLR. For my daughter, I purchased a Panasonic GF-6, a beginner camera. But I was blown away by much better software, superior movie capability, fold-out touch screen (!), by much lighter weight. Later; I bought myself a Panasonic GF8 with 4K video capability; a few weeks ago, a pristine 2nd hand Panasonic GX8.
The smaller form factor and lighter weight of cameras and lenses of M43 are fun; the system is very capable, reliable, and highly developed! M43 is the reason why the main manufacturers ditched the DSLR in favor of mirrorless cameras.
Pentax offered the stand-alone Q series which they ditched after a few years. If they had joined the M43 consortium, maybe the Q series would still be alive.
Oh one more comment - you are a very good photographer absolutely excellent wildlife shots - I'm a part time professional. Wanted to say that people are so polarized on camera gear for whatever reason. My full frame is for any low light and or my professional work - but my trusty Olympus goes with me everywhere and I love it for that. Perfect travel camera and I even sneak it in for a little professional macro work as well it's amazing for that. My full frame is expensive and yes and too damn heavy - but it's only a tool to do a job for me - nothing more. My Olympus is my amazing friend that goes with me everywhere. The main point I'm making is I wish people could just get over their gear and just get out there and shoot great photos! Kudos to the excellent photos - you've taken beautiful pics with your micro. Also you know what you are doing and personally - I believe gear is only a small part of the equation of what makes a good photographer. Sending you my best from Canada. Chris.
Chris Troy Thanks for your kind comments. I agree, a camera is just a tool. I’m not sure why so many people are obsessed with which brand/model. You never here a carpenter talk about which brand of hammer or saw they use or a painter talk about which brand of brush they use. I am very happy with the move to m43 mostly because it allows me to make pictures more easily due to being compact and light. What part of Canada are you from? Canada is like a second home to me. My sister lives in BC and I worked for a Canadian company for 10 years. I’ve lost count of the number of times I have been there. Seen a lot of it and love it. Cheers, Ian
@@IanSmissenPhotography Ian I completely agree and I think if more individuals had that type of attitude, we would all certainly be far better for it. I think that comes with maturity, and hopefully people will grow out of that - I can tell you from my experience - that actual photographers do generally feel the way we do. Your point about a carpenter is a perfect analogy and I couldn't agree more. I live in Victoria, BC and love it here - beautiful island. I work for BC during the day and work in photography part time. Where do you hail from and what part of BC does your sister live?
Chris Troy I am from a small coastal town in Victoria, Australia. My sister lives in Lions Bay just north of Vancouver on Hwy 99. I love (your) Victoria and Vancouver Island. Been there abt 5 times and always want to go back.
I decided to get back in to photography as a hobby and I bought the Panasonic Lumix G95. For me this I think was a good choice more for the cost to quality ratio. I am a little concerned about the range of lenses for this camera but so far what I have for me is a good selection. After watching your video I am even more confident that I made the right choice and I hope to soon be out in the wilderness of New Jersey taking what I hope to be some great picture.
Patrick Burnell Thanks for watching and good luck with your photography 😀
Thanks Ian, good to find a Austrailian review. Looking to upgrade from my canon D200 & D60 to the G9. My next set is to actually hold one in store to get the “feel” of the G9
cheers from the Latrobe Valley Victoria
Thanks Bruce, enjoy trying out the G9 😀
Still love my K-70, K-1, and K10d, but I'm definitely on the lookout for a gx85 kit for just portability
Thanks Ian for explaining the reasons for making the change. As a 74 year old with a very bad shoulder I've had to give up hand holding long lens, especially when shooting birds. Being able to lighten the load would really help, but my budget and accountant (my wife) says not now. I eager to see more of your images with your new gear.
Bob Freelove Thanks Bob! Looking forward to brining more soon 😀
Done exactly the same ,have the g9 and em1 mkii, like you the 100-400 which i use with the g9 ,have the Olympus 12-100 f4 and Olympus 45 1.2 would never go back ,gives me everything i need in a dam site smaller package. Dof and noise is vastly exaggerated by those that wont admit ff isnt that much better after all, well not any more. Panasonic and Olympus have improved mft so quickly and efficiently more than any other system whilst not enlarging the sensor ,a wonderful achievement in itself.
I'm an amateur but I have been shooting since the days of my praktica LTL, shot on Ilford B&W and processed myself on my old durst f30 onto ilford paper. I had years of Canon crop sensor dslrs, from the first rebel XT to the 80d but once I tried mirrorless I had to switch. First to Fuji then Panasonic. I love my G9. Proper exposure in camera yields great results. I went with the PL 12-60 and for sports initially the 45-175 X, now I have the 100-300. Sharp and weather sealed for reach and sports. For casual photography I can't fault fuji, but recently I bought the A7ii and a 50mm 1.8 to go with it, plus a sigma mc-11 for my canon lenses. Can't complain there either. We are lucky that all the gear these days is better than most photographers, me included. :) Choice is good. Your bird photos are beautiful!
Hi Brandon, thanks for watching and your comments :-)
The IBIS in the G9 is a game changer when used @800mm
I went on a trip with the tamaron 18-400mm on my aps-c camera
I had a real tough time getting an image of a common loon out on a still lake on a sunny day
400mm wasn't nearly long enough, the tamron wasn't sharp enough, and the stabilization wasnt stabile enough in a canoe.
I have no doubt the G9 and 100-400mm would have gotten the shot no problem
Weight is my main reason to be in M43 . Accordingly, my long tele gear is more modest : lumix G85 with 100-300 mk2 but i have a high opinion of the G9 / 100-400 combo . I still have also Pentax gear that i stopped evolving at the K5ii s . I still use it from time to time, mostly for concert with the 100 f2.8 macro since i love the rendition at 1600 iso .
Well done, I think you did a great job explaining yourself, and there really is no comparison to the telephoto size MFT allows. Too many brainwashed FF zealots these days, so many of the comments will be extremely predictable.
Hi Jay1
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment - both much appreciated. I agree regarding the predictable responses - seems to be the way of social media - but that's OK, everyone has an opinion and I'm happy to take the constructively critical along with the inevitable trolls.
Cheers, Ian
Someone has a different opinion and need than me = corporate zombies and trolls. 100% valid and fair assessment.
Jay1, nobody cares
@@arwlyx that's not what he's written though.
FF certainly has advantages over micro 4/3, you must admit. I personally passed on the K1 as I don't think the tech is quite there yet. The APS-c sensors in 16 and 24 MP are certainly matured enough and very satisfying to shoot. I haven't done the research, but I can't help but wander if there are better options out there if size/weight are the major considerations...
The g9 still an amazing camera today. Nothing in the price range competes!
Having the same Pentax set-up I bought a Leica D-Lux 7, which is Panasonic M4/3 at heart, as a walk-about camera. It’s fine within certain limits but the Pentax FF is on another level of controllability, low light tolerance and fantastic detail. If you just take snaps for Instagram then ok but for quality work forget it. It makes more sense to take small lightweight primes for trips than f2,8 zooms.
Thanks Ian for a fine presentation. I have been using a Lumix G7 for 3 years now wanting to get a new one while keeping the G7 as backup. I am confused about Lumix higher end like the GH and G9. You convinced me of G9 stunning quality and I will pick it too. And like all Lumix owners the weight and size kill it.
Heli City Thanks for watching. Glad it was useful!
Cheers Ian
Welcome to the M43 family!
ATT MEE Thanks 😀
Well. Looks like we both arrived at a similar decision at about the same time!! 😊👍🏻
D Griff Gallery Hi Dave. No regrets? None for me so far but early days. Have injured myself (torn intercostal muscle) so can’t get out to shoot for a while 😢
That's terrible news. Hope you're ok and get well soon. @@IanSmissenPhotography
Nick Buchholz Thanks Nick, recovering well - I can now twist, bend, cough and laugh again 👍😜
I hear you ... I've had to pay for over-weight luggage numerous times!