I made a comment in one of Peter F’s videos to the effect of, if a Kardashian or Beckham were spotted with a PenF, Olympus would still be making them and there would be a year long back order. Olympus is making cameras with groundbreaking and genuinely useful technology, but no one but us legacy owners and a few trend bucking YT creatives seem to notice. As always Rob, great info with excellent delivery without nonsense and clutter.
The pen-f is even much more. It has support for profoto flash light and another great feauture: build in movie with the option to shoot video for 4 or 8 sec each time. And to merge all or several of these short videos and even add a background sound. Kind regards, olympus fanatic 😀
Thanks! I finally get the way the colour profile works! I was getting lost because each time I tried to revert to C1/4 the camera seemed to have lost it's setting, but it was just because you have A LOT of them embedded in different colour profile. I think most of this came in a later firmware because you didn't mentioned them in your previous Pen-F camera setting videos. This camera is simply FUN, but the problem is that you don't really get it until you start shooting jpeg and experiment with that, a bias that comes from "PRO" keeping telling us they only shoot raw and form the useless point and shoot with embedded "Instagrammy profiles". On the Pen-F the more you try and tweak, the more you get confident and amazed by the amount of things you can do in camera. Raw is fine when you try to archive something in post because you cant straight away (dynamic range reasons mostly), but if you can nail exposure, you get so much more creative changing things in the viewfinder and drawing inspiration from the actual subject under your eyes then you do, looking at your computer screen and just drawing sliders to mess up things!
Thanks. If I remember correctly, I think you emailed me asking about doing a video on the custom settings for the Pen F? If so, glad this video solved that for you. You're right about the camera, it is very fun! I rarely process the raw files I take and very happy with the jpgs.
Thank you for this video. I am new to m43 having purchased a pre owned EM10 MK2. I do not intend to purchase the Pen F but your careful explanations of the differences between the two cameras clearly show me any limitations of the EM10 MK2, very helpful.
Worth mentioning that the fully articulated screen is excellent for portrait photography at low angles, and is one of the main reasons why i bought the Pen F and had been.looking at an M5 to replace my E620/E420. Now have an M10 mk1 and a Pen PL9 as well for back up and can cover all bases - all in the silver - but my go -to camera is the Pen F, and I really need to learn more of its tricks.
Another great video... thanks Rob. Think Olympus advertising hints at drawing in camera phone users wishing to push their boundaries, and the Pen range is particularly suited and especially the Pen f, phone users don't want the complexities of complicated post processing, they want the immediacy of in camera realities, they (we) live for the moment and this is the perfect step. I'm a Sony pro shooter and an Olympus Street Photographer, thanks again for your very informative RUclips content.
This was a long awaited video and I must say worth the wait Rob. Your in-depth knowledge of the functions and the differences is so insightful and remarkable. I adore the Pen-f and agree that to me it was not meant to be one that will continue with versions. The fully articulating screen is what stopped me getting one as I much prefer the em10ii style. If I do eventually get one that screen will be in the closed position as it looks so much better and more nostalgic. Great video
I have both these cameras and have used them a lot. Still, watching this video I learned quite a few things that I didn't know and that will be very useful to me going forward. Such a great channel this, I am very grateful for your awesome and inspiring work. Thank you Rob!
Thanks for the video. My 1st Olympus was the em 10 mk 2. I bought it 5-6 years ago mostly based on your advice. My 2nd camera was the TG-5 and last year I added the em 1 mk 2. I still have and love the em 10 and use it for travel and short walks, Saturday shopping etc. The flip up screen is the best for waste level shots.
I have a Pen _F, I love it, but then I am all about crative photo, no Video. The art filters and BW mode are so much fun to play around with. The knobs and dials are in the right place. This is a keeper for me.
Excellent presentation as usual Rob. The Pan F is my dream camera but here in the UK it is very expensive. I am saving though so hopefully in the near future I will be able to purchase it. Until them my EM-10 mk ii is more than up to the job. Thank you for yet another excellent video Rob.
Great video! I own the Mark II and have really considered my options with the PenF. This video was really helpful to me and my future purchasing decisions. Thank you.
@@RobTrek Being honest with myself i prefer doing processing from my PC or the phone (when time is scares). Even though it's a great camera, it would appear that when I decide to change my em10 II, the best alternative that actually provides a noticable difference is the EM1 II, or perhaps some of the Panasonic bodies.
@@Eternai91 Yes, the em1-ii would be a significant upgrade. Once you take away the in-camera processing of the penf, then it's all about style. Nothing wrong with that. It's actually the only reason I bought it.
@@RobTrek Yes, nothing wrong with style what so ever. My main "concern" with the EM1 II is that my main investments are the 17mm and 45mm f1/8 primes, which i believe wouldn't fit the larger body as well. Meaning that I'd feel a bit pressured to invest in Pro glass. Nothing wrong with any of the Pro lenses! It's just that photography is incredibly expensive as a hobby for the standard where I live.
Dear Rob, I have recently purchased a pre-cherished PEN-F with a Panasonic15mm f1.7 lens, as a backup for my EM1 MKII and can't put it down! I have just discovered your channel and am slowly working my way through it. I do like your very relaxed style and teaching skills, which are much appreciated.
Another great video! I have the Pen F & love it but you have pointed out so many additional features that make it an even better camera for walk around & travel.
Thorough info, Rob. Cam has what amounts to built-in image editing software. I prefer separate software, myself, but do enjoy using the Pen-F. As you referenced, the retro look was important. When the PenF first came out, street photography camera ergonomics was a big selling point.
Thanks. I experiment sometimes with Olympus Workspace all the settings I want to try in camera before heading out. I then setup the camera based on that initial research. I like seeing the images when in the field in case creative inspiration strikes and I can make the changes in camera.
Great Video! When I was looking to upgrade my em5 mk1 two years ago I decided to go with the em10ii because of the tilt screen (I love shooting waist level) and also it was about half the price of the em5 ii. I love the penF looks but on paper it seemed a rip-off compared to the em10ii. But your video has me reconsidering due to the features your video revealed.
@nexus I had both for a while and sold the EM5ii. It is weatherproof and with the grip is a little easier to handle than the Pen F, but I much preferred the functionality of the Pen F
@nexus I don't own the em5-ii, so can't make videos about it. I don't prefer the em10 over the em5. I just started with the em10, then got the PenF, skipped the em5 and got the em1.
Hi Rob, I am late on this video, but I hope you're seeing it. As an enthusiastic amateur, even if I am happy for changing from Fuji to Olympus, I confess that I never overcome the nostalgia that still remains in my hearth. Olympus gave me better IBIS, more affordable lens, (not allways!), more dof, better size and even better customization. Better evf in samll bodies. But out of the box jpegs from fuji are gorgeous, (like that beautiful oil painting effet), even if I miss the vivid colors that are better with all the other brands. Here I have to agree with Ken Rockwell. However, with the Pen-F, I have the looks that can rival any fuji body and a state of the art color composition in camera. So jpegs are how we want them to be. I can have velvia and more ! I am not a big fun of PP... Before this video I had doubts brtween a Pen-f or a EM1 Mark II. Thanks to you, I am sure about the good choice for me now. Tius is by far the best video about the exclusive features of the Pen-f and I am not talking only about color. All those features you refered are very interesting and important. So thank you very much for this video. I wish you the best ! Francisco
I have got a 10mk2, the built in flash is a good idea for me. The screen tilt is good for photo, but is delicated versus the rotary screen in closed position. The 20Mpx is good, but the ISO response is BEST. Thank you, Rob, from Madrid, Spain.
I'm finding that it is not the extra pixels but the newer technology providing a quieter better sensor. I have two with 20Mp and the rest 16Mp. Whilst the 20Mp can handle higher ISO, they seem to give better results with a faster shutter. I'm supposed to be a radiometrologist and I don't fully understand this as yet. But to get sharp images of birds in flight out of the G9 I'm having to use 1/1500, 1/2000 or faster. With the 16Mp I can maybe go a stop slower to freeze movement blur. I haven't figured out whether it's pixel size, resolution, or stabilisation yet. Probably a combination. May seem a bit ocd but it's innate for a scientist to ask why. Play with it. The best camera is the one you are holding. Have fun.
That's really neat. Almost thought about buying it a couple times but I'm really waiting on the EM5 III. Would be nice if they incorporate some of those features in the future EM5, certainly will have 20mp sensor. DSLR like is more my style. Or it would be even better if they drop EM1 II to around $1000 and build a new EM1 III. Probably will never happen.
Really interesting video, thanks. I have the Pen F and absolutely love it. It’s just such a fun camera to use. I had the EM5ii and for a while kept both, but the functionality of the Pen F is just great. Your analysis really highlights why it is more expensive. I was very sad to hear it’s unlikely to be continued and will treasure mine. I like to leave it set to RAW and then when I use the creative dial - which I do for B&W a lot, I have the best of both raw and Jpeg. I also have the EM1ii for when I shoot action or bad weather so couldn’t justify keeping all 3.
Thanks. I also shoot the raw + jpg just in case I want to post process, but it's rare that I have too. I skipped the em5-ii and got the em1-ii since I already had the Pen F.
The E-M10 mark II is a great deal compared to the mark III -- love the metal body :) Actually, my little PL-8 was a sweet deal too! So cheap in 2020 now.
Thanks for this. I’ve had an EP5 for 6 years and thought about getting the pen f for a while but always felt I couldn’t justify it having an EM5 mk1 and EM1 mk2, but with the Pen F getting cancelled I wondered if I should look out for a bargain - you’ve definitely made up my mind lol!
Where were you two weeks ago! This was almost literally my dilemma - although I had a Pen F and an EM10 mk1 at home. Ended up selling both, and buying an EM10MK2 for the better EVF/IBIS. Saved a ton of money and so far happy with my choice.
Excelent video. Thank you for make it. I have the Pen F and I have see all of yours about this camera and I learned a lot with them, and so I can ejoy more with my pretty pen f.
Hi Rob, for my situation I find the Pen F far superior. Sure what you say is right, however for me I am in a wheelchair. Taking photos, then having to post edit photos can be very difficult for people in a wheelchair. I love the fact I can get the shot I want out of the camera then transfer to my phone and send to family and fiends. However all that aside it looks better handles better and a benefits of 20mp . There are other features that make this Superior to the camera you are comparing to. As said for people in a wheelchair this is a great light camera, and despite 4yrs old, I still would highly recommend to any serious photographer.
Hello, Hanz. I love that about the PenF too. It's still my favorite camera of all the ones I own. I recommend it as an "Only" camera or "Second" camera to everyone. However, I rarely tell people that it is an upgrade to any camera. It really stands on it's own and is unique.
K thanks for the advise Rob.Like many other people would advice.I just purchase a oly 17mm f1.8 and looking foreward to get the lens.I am a keen street photographer and do not really want splashproof/freeseproof etc.
12:15 You know what would be better? If the focal length setting is integrated in (or can be set to be put into) the control panel. Great review, by the way. I have the EM10-2 but been lovestruck by the Pen-F since its release because of the flip screen. But it's too late, already got the 10-2. Heheheh... I love it though. Great size, great design; better than other Olympuses IMO, except Pen-F. That thing is perfect... perfectly out of my league. For now.
Thanks. You'll get there soon enough. It's a great camera. The focal length can be accessed through the ibis setting in the super control panel. 2 clicks and you're there.
I appreciate being able to flip the screen right around, but I would still have preferred a tilting screen I just can't get used to the screen sticking out the side when I'm trying to shoot at waist level or low level. The camera really is a joy to use though, and I love the black and white jpegs The camera came in for all kinds of criticism when it was released, but I think that most reviewers just didn't get it, just didn't understand how it was meant to be used. I had a chuckle the other day reading a review of a Nikon lens I own which is getting rave reviews. This guy said it was total garbage, but I couldn't see if he actually had one. So I asked him and he said he was basing his review on other F4 lenses he had owned, and was sure all F4 lenses were garbage! Not only had he not shot with it, he hadn't even seen one. I suspect a lot of the negative feedback on this camera was by people who had never used it.
Thanks. Yes, the tilty screen is my preference for photos too. Why would anyone talk about a specific lens and give an opinion on it if they never even seen one? It's okay to generalize and disclose you've never used one so it leaves room for exceptions or corrections. Like I would say most vintage zoom lenses suck and would avoid them, but if someone can name a specific exception to the rule, then at least I left some wiggle room by saying "most".
Certain opinions seem to go "viral." All kinds of people are saying that micro four-thirds image quality is terrible. Some get quite passionate about it. I've had people call me names on line for defending it. However, I'm pretty sure they are repeating popular wisdom they've run into on review sites. I doubt they have ever used one for the most part. The same with the f4 debate. The lens I was speaking about was the new Nikon 14-30 F4S. I haven't read one review where somebody has tested the lens and doesn't rave about it. But this idea that any lens can't be any good if its F4 is widespread. Personally, I would much rather carry an F4 than an F2.8 at twice the size and weight. The old Nikon 200mm F4 AIS is another one. Nice and small and compact, and supposedly good image quality, and cost $100. But horrors! It's only f4! Well that one's on my shopping list. Same with the Olympus 40-150 F4-5.6. OK it's not the 40-150 2.8, but it fits in a jacket pocket and I've got some great shots with it. I sold my first copy and still regretting it. My 2.8 sits at home most of the time. That lens weights almost as much as my whole travel kit. One of the things I like about your channel is you go out and use the equipment and show the results. So please keep it up.
Hello Rob, very nice video, I just learned a few new tricks ... I too have E-M10ii and PEN-F , but found myself using the PEN-F over the E-M10 . I love the B&W images which the PEN-F is producing, no need for Light Room . Olympus is not making them anymore, does anybody know if PEN-F II is in works ???
Thanks. I doubt a Pen F II is ever coming. A followup was never planned to begin with. They need to really knock it out of the park with the E-M5-iii, drawing buyers away from Sony and Fuji.
21:28 "...PEN-F gives so much more control..." -- indeed, but at 4x the price! :D Most of the things you were talking about are meaningful for those about to use JPGs produced directly within the camera -- but using E-M10 Mark II one can still decide "any more sophisticated cases I'll process using RAWs and Lightroom". Of course PEN-F is the alternative for most demanding (and qualified) users, because for the most of the others its firmware can be somewhat overwhelming. Even menu system of E-M10 Mark II is quite complex, let alone the one of PEN-F. So there's a need to ask yourself a question: "do I really need that much?" and consider, that E-M10 Mark II can be bought for a quarter of the price of PEN-F. So there's a choice: PEN-F vs the "little one" along with very fine lens. Besides: there also are things PEN-F can't do -- like, for example, some of the "creative toys" its little brother offers (e.g. "photo story"). No "scenery" selection on the dial -- well, I agree, users of PEN-F most probably wouldn't use it anyway, but still: E-M10 Mark II has it, right?
No question the E-M10 mark II is one of the best cameras ever made. Using Olympus Workspace, you can do anything with the E-M10ii that you can do with a PenF - including all the jpg special features of the PenF. The only difference is the PenF let's you do more in the field rather than post. Good point about the Scenery mode. I think the PenF is missing Story mode to (although I'm not sure right now.)
what is the final output format of post editing? JPEG? if a camera can customize 90% or more of what you want in jpg, why bother to do it in post? shooting 'jpg' is not necessary for amateurs!
@@RobTrek much later I noticed one more difference: PEN-F seems to be somehow using/discharging its battery even when just lying on the shelf unused, while the battery in E-M10 can stay in unused camera long time still keeping its charge. I wonder did you notice that disadvantage in your PEN-F?
Perhaps a better "comparison" would have been made to the E-M5 Mark II with which the PEN-F shares a lot of hardware, they were developed and released around the same time. The menus are still different but the E-M5ii has more capabilities than the E-M10ii. (The E-PL7 shares hardware with the E-M10ii). I realty like the tilt screen on the E-PL7, it would suit the way the PEN-F handles but the flip out screen suits the E-M5ii very well. Hard to explain, they work in the hand differently, haptics. Where are the ART and SCN filters on the PEN-F? It took me a moment to figure out. They have to be assigned to C3 and C4. I can live without the SCN but being a jpeg monster found I want the ART filters on the PEN-F. On the Lens Info settings, if you adapt a zoom lens, put the longest focal length in as the stabiliser will use that. It's often more about weight and balance than focal length and with some lenses the stabiliser has to be cheated on the F/L, adapted film lenses can be long and heavy.
Rob, another great video and timely. I’ve been considering the pen-f for a few months. I’m disappointed the pen-f isn’t being continued. I’ve been holding off purchasing a new camera in hopes of a new release of the pen-f, but not to be, or do I wait for the em-5 III?
I suspect the EM5 update will incorporate much of these features since it is unlikely that Olympus will drop such useful consumer features when the Pen-F is discontinued.
I bought the 10mkii for my big bros 51s t bday this april!he showed me how nice the wifi is on the camera!and he says he will try to take some sunsets in 4K mode next weekend!I am pretty sure I will get the 5mkii for myself in october! I hate recording video on my Nikon D750 and my photopusher doesnt sell Panasonic, so no GH4-5 for me!
Very generous of you! Lucky brother you have there. By October, the 5mkiii will be out or announced, so maybe get a smoking deal on the mkii or get the mkiii if it's any good. The 4k mode is only for timelapse stuff, which I have a video on if interested. Too bad about panasonic not available. It's currently the superior video camera choice.
@@RobTrek I asked him about the GH4 when it came out!he doesnt sell Panasonic as mentioned! I pay in rates and can choose the good stuff and pay over time! if the price of the 5mkiii is over 2-2.500 dollars im out and will choose the 5mkii for sure!!
Hi Rob. I just bought the em10 mk2 but Amazon sent me the PEN F by mistake. Should I keep the PEN F? I want the camera that gives me more options to improve my photography skills
Hi Rob.I am thinking if getting a Pen F to advance my photography and also i saw a lot of advance option on the Pen F.Would you advise my to go for it although its discontinued by olympus.I was also looking at the EM5 MK11 but think the Pen F should be a better one.I am now using my EM10 MK11 and still loves it.From a price point the EM1 MK11 and the forthcoming EM5 MK111 wil be above my price range.please advise.
I wouldn't let the camera being discontinued deter you from getting it. I wouldn't buy it specifically to advance your photography, the EM10 Mark 2 is a more than capable camera to take you as far as you want to go. The PenF is an excellent jpg camera for playing with color and monotone and has features not found on any other camera regardless of brand. So if you enjoy setting up color profiles while in the field, it makes a great choice. Otherwise, most settings can be done in post processing with workspace or lightroom. If you need weather sealing, mic jack, and fully articulating screen, then the em5 mark 2 would be a great upgrade. It has better IBIS and more advanced features. But again, not sure it's worth the price difference over the em10 mark 2 in terms of image quality and advancing your photography. I think money will be better spent on new lenses.
Hello Rob, one question to my Pen F: the automatic switch betwwen EVF and display is no more enabled - I now must switch manually. What is the fault I have done? The switching between on an out in menue doesn`t work.
Thank you Rob. Very informative. Do you know of a good book on the Pen F? Like "The complete guide to the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mk II", I have not been able to find one. If there is not one available, perhaps you should write one in that format. I am sure many of us your subscribers would purchase it immediately. Good shooting
Hi, Another fascinating video Rob.Your older ones on the Olympus menu system really helped me get the most out of my Pen F. Regarding books I did find this one on the Kindle book store which I also found a useful reference, though it is a bit like an alternative instruction book...’The Olympus pen f menu system simplified” by David Thorpe ( Kindle book)
Dear Rob, very nice review. I have installed a soft-release shutter button on my Pen-F, but when stored in its leather jacket case, the shutter button is kept pressed. Is that something to harm the camera?
Hello, I note what you say, which highlights the improved features of the Pen F, however I really question how many people would spend so much time in the field doing all those in camera adjustments
I usually setup before I head out, then make minor tweaks if needed. It would be very time consuming even for me to experiment in the field. Sometimes creative inspiration strikes and it's nice to be able to make the changes in camera while in the moment.
Does the M10 Mark ll allow for live viewing on both the LCD as well as thru the EVF? Thanks..... also do you feel the changing of settings such as shadows, or contrast, or grain etc,...is as easy in the Mark ll as in the Pen F?
You definitely do a better job than Olympus in showing what the Pen F is actually about (not lifestyle, for sure, but a lot of useful features - the one feature that is missing is weather sealing, sadly). You missed the most important feature, though, that makes the Pen F quite unique in the Olympus MFT line-up: The cable release thread! Okay, I'm not completely serious here, but this actually was a factor for me, and it does come in handy from time to time, because I can use all the cable releases that I have for my analog cameras that are always in my bag. And I like the leathered side of the screen, less problems with touchscreen functionality, and the screen is better protected. I have it this way most of the time, it has something of the Leica M10-D that I can't afford … ;-)
Thanks. You are so right about the cable release being unique! I can't believe I missed that. I usually pick up on those little things. (face palm!). I might have to do another video just for that one feature.
@@RobTrek Well, easy to overlook ;-) Thinking about it - I seldomly use a cable release with my Pen F, because most of the time using the self-timer is sufficient.
Me too. I only used my wireless trigger once. In practice, I'd rather wait 2 seconds than bring another battery operated device and it takes more than 2 seconds to screw in a cable release.
Another great video Rob. Thank you. Maybe the PEN F for my next camera when I have more experience. I know this maybe a stupid request but can you do a short video on camera care and cleaning lenses? thank you
Thanks. I'm the last one person you want to ask about cleaning and care! Generally I use a dry tooth brush and keyboard vacuum for the camera and some rubbing alchohol on a q-tip for grime.
Yes, both ends. Usually just need an air blower for the rear, then use a q-tip with rubbing alcohol and distilled water for the front element. ruclips.net/video/yH-N6-lzOgM/видео.html
Of assistance in 2020. Have just purchased a 2nd nib Pen F as just loved using the minty Pen F + nib 12-40 2.8 combo. Real fun combination, but whilst I can find my way around the Menus, can't seem to set up permanent settings? I shoot in Aperture priority 99% of the time. How do I make settings assign to C1-4 etc. Do I just turn custom dial to e.g. C1,2 3 etc & does that capture the various individual settings made while dial set to e.g C1? Thanks.
Hi. I did a video on setting up custome settings for the E-M10. It's very similar to the PenF Here (starting at 16 minutes) ruclips.net/video/k5AqXNaUG44/видео.html
The Olympus cameras were released in pairs around then. E-PL7 September 2014 and contained a lot of the E-M10 II before the E-M10 II. E-M10 II September 2015 E-M5 II February 2015 PEN-F January 2016 and developed from the E-M5 II platform. Whilst I do not have an E-M10 - I do have the E-PL7, E-M5ii and PEN-F. The differences between the PEN-F and the E-M5ii are not as great as between the PEN-F/E-M5ii and the E-PL7. As noted, the PEN-F is in many ways unique and a very different camera. This is not to say that one is better than the other - the E-M5ii is excellent and like the PEN-F has Sync-IS. The PEN-F is "different". And the tiny tilting E-PL7 is possibly my favourite pocket camera, it even takes the tilting VF4 EVF. But whereas the E-PL7 is 3 axes, the E-M10ii got 5 axes as with the E-M5ii and PEN-F. In use with the E-PL7 as a pocket camera, this makes not a bit of difference, it's not a camera you put huge lenses on. Where a lens has OIS, which is most of the Lumix range, they will use "Olympus Dual Stabilisation" where OIS and IBIS operate simultaneously but unsynchronised. This not only helps framing the shot but aids focusing. I think the PEN-F might have been better with a tilt screen, it is really not a hybrid video camera, but I think they wanted to style it with a closed blank back, form over function fail.
There’s a significant price difference to the em10 mark ii. Not worth it in my opinion & guessing that’s why sales volume is too low for Olympus to justify continuing this product.
Hi Rob: I love your videos which I discovered a few weeks ago. You turned me on to the Pen F which I have been coveting since that time. I finally decided it would make a nice 72nd birthday present, and I received a used body today. It has a couple of scratches but overall it’s in great condition! So, I was wondering what lens is on your Pen F that you show in your video. Thanks for all you do!
@@RobTrek I think the flowers could come out great in anime style - actually I just ordered another macro attachment for my phone- 60x - should be fun and only cost about 5 dollars : )
Hi Rob i love your videos can you do a review on the Olympus EM10-markiii..And maybe compare it with the EM5Markii and maybe show us some AF-C tips related to the olympus EM10-markiii..Thanks in Advance..
I think...after using my Sony A57 for a week now...that the screen on your Pen is better...as far as flipping out and spinning around...and only for one reason...when I have the Sony on the tripod and go to flip the screen down....you cant see past the tripod..the tripod is in the way...I will soon be using a tripod so it does not affect me as much now as it will further down the road.
How do you switch between color profiles 1, 2 and 3 with the dial (14:30)? If i turn the dial in that situation it switches from "Color Profile 1" to "Mono Profile 1". The only way i know how to switch between 1, 2 and 3 is by pressing the "OK"-button, which is not ideal. I would appreciate an answer, because this is something i find really annoying.
A few years back when I was seriously considering the switch from DSLR to Mirrorless (after nearly 40 years with Canon), Olympus was a top contender, especially the Pen F, primarily due to that stunning retro design, so reminiscent of my Father' s Pen growing up on the 70s. However, after testing a friend's camera for a week, I decided on Fuji's line up. I was simply not that crazy about the micro 4/3 format. Fuji's retro design (shutter speed dial, f-stop ring on most of their X-Lenses) in part won me over as well as the larger ASP-C sensor and I felt that I got more bang for the buck. Still, the Pen F is a beautiful camera.
Thanks for sharing. I was in a similar situation but went Olympus. I'll have to tell the whole story one day on why I ultimately went with Olympus but I do love the fujifilm cameras. I actually have 4 old compact camera fujifilms. My F10 still takes great pictures! I shop fujifilm cameras time to time, just not ready to invest in another system.
@@RobTrek Indeed, I never saw the need for having two camera systems. When I was shooting news, most photogs were "married" to a single system and back then (the 80s) Nikon was the king. I was the odd man out as I was a Canon shooter, few papers stocked Canon glass or rigs, so I was on my own. The pressure to switch to Nikon from colleagues and editors was tough, but I simply did not want to make the switch, largely due to the cost, plus I knew Canon and I loved the system. Who knew that in 6 short years the tables would turn and Canon would usurp the throne?
Unfortunately, they don't offer the E-P7 here in the USA. So I've never seen on in person. That said, features look to be everything the PenF is without an EVF.
Hallo Rob Trek Greet Video. I use the omd em5 from 2014 and me Pen F from 2018 . And you help me Thank You. mit freundlichem Gruß aus dem Schaumburger Land Matthias
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I made a comment in one of Peter F’s videos to the effect of, if a Kardashian or Beckham were spotted with a PenF, Olympus would still be making them and there would be a year long back order. Olympus is making cameras with groundbreaking and genuinely useful technology, but no one but us legacy owners and a few trend bucking YT creatives seem to notice. As always Rob, great info with excellent delivery without nonsense and clutter.
Thanks. Yes, celebrity endorsement could go a long way.
The pen-f is even much more. It has support for profoto flash light and another great feauture: build in movie with the option to shoot video for 4 or 8 sec each time. And to merge all or several of these short videos and even add a background sound. Kind regards, olympus fanatic 😀
Martin Boltje -Wow! Thanks for the adds! I guess the limiting factor is the operator! 🤔 Cool!
Thanks! I finally get the way the colour profile works! I was getting lost because each time I tried to revert to C1/4 the camera seemed to have lost it's setting, but it was just because you have A LOT of them embedded in different colour profile. I think most of this came in a later firmware because you didn't mentioned them in your previous Pen-F camera setting videos.
This camera is simply FUN, but the problem is that you don't really get it until you start shooting jpeg and experiment with that, a bias that comes from "PRO" keeping telling us they only shoot raw and form the useless point and shoot with embedded "Instagrammy profiles". On the Pen-F the more you try and tweak, the more you get confident and amazed by the amount of things you can do in camera. Raw is fine when you try to archive something in post because you cant straight away (dynamic range reasons mostly), but if you can nail exposure, you get so much more creative changing things in the viewfinder and drawing inspiration from the actual subject under your eyes then you do, looking at your computer screen and just drawing sliders to mess up things!
Thanks. If I remember correctly, I think you emailed me asking about doing a video on the custom settings for the Pen F? If so, glad this video solved that for you. You're right about the camera, it is very fun! I rarely process the raw files I take and very happy with the jpgs.
Great comparison and informative. Price wise, EM10 mark 2 is the best choice.
Thanks. The EM10 is a bargain and great camera at any price!
Nothing beats year-long reviews. Neither so-called 'professional reviews' nor 'I've just bought this' ones.
Thanks.
I purchased a Pen F aat the beginning of the year. I have been very pleased with the camera. It is a great camera for macro work.
The Pen F is great for macro. The extra megapixels come in handy!
Thank you for this video. I am new to m43 having purchased a pre owned EM10 MK2. I do not intend to purchase the Pen F but your careful explanations of the differences between the two cameras clearly show me any limitations of the EM10 MK2, very helpful.
Glad it was helpful!
Worth mentioning that the fully articulated screen is excellent for portrait photography at low angles, and is one of the main reasons why i bought the Pen F and had been.looking at an M5 to replace my E620/E420. Now have an M10 mk1 and a Pen PL9 as well for back up and can cover all bases - all in the silver - but my go -to camera is the Pen F, and I really need to learn more of its tricks.
Another great video... thanks Rob. Think Olympus advertising hints at drawing in camera phone users wishing to push their boundaries, and the Pen range is particularly suited and especially the Pen f, phone users don't want the complexities of complicated post processing, they want the immediacy of in camera realities, they (we) live for the moment and this is the perfect step.
I'm a Sony pro shooter and an Olympus Street Photographer, thanks again for your very informative RUclips content.
Thanks, Anthony. The PenF is certainly unique that way.
As always, very informative and well researched. Thank you from all MFT camera users!
Thanks for watching!
Rob, I am contemplating purchasing a Pen F. This is a very helpful post. Thank you!
Glad to help!
This time, you have even outdone yourself. Great information and great video. Thanks
Thanks. I actually didn't think many would watch a video on 3 year old cameras.
This was a long awaited video and I must say worth the wait Rob. Your in-depth knowledge of the functions and the differences is so insightful and remarkable. I adore the Pen-f and agree that to me it was not meant to be one that will continue with versions. The fully articulating screen is what stopped me getting one as I much prefer the em10ii style. If I do eventually get one that screen will be in the closed position as it looks so much better and more nostalgic. Great video
Thanks. What they could have done is just put a tilty screen with a hard cover if they just wanted that look when people open the box.
@@RobTrek I was thinking the same, that would have been the winner for me.
I have both these cameras and have used them a lot. Still, watching this video I learned quite a few things that I didn't know and that will be very useful to me going forward. Such a great channel this, I am very grateful for your awesome and inspiring work. Thank you Rob!
Thank you. Glad I could show you a few new things.
I love my Pen F, I have two bodies and planning to get a third one before it disappears. It is my paint brush.
I may have to pick up a 2nd body soon myself!
Thanks for the video. My 1st Olympus was the em 10 mk 2. I bought it 5-6 years ago mostly based on your advice. My 2nd camera was the TG-5 and last year I added the em 1 mk 2. I still have and love the em 10 and use it for travel and short walks, Saturday shopping etc. The flip up screen is the best for waste level shots.
Thanks, Neil. Love my little TG-5 and EM10ii.
I have a Pen _F, I love it, but then I am all about crative photo, no Video. The art filters and BW mode are so much fun to play around with. The knobs and dials are in the right place. This is a keeper for me.
I love my PenF too!
Excellent presentation as usual Rob. The Pan F is my dream camera but here in the UK it is very expensive. I am saving though so hopefully in the near future I will be able to purchase it. Until them my EM-10 mk ii is more than up to the job. Thank you for yet another excellent video Rob.
Thanks. Look for refurbs from Olympus. I see them for $700 all the time!
Great video! I own the Mark II and have really considered my options with the PenF. This video was really helpful to me and my future purchasing decisions. Thank you.
Thanks. It's still a tough decision unless you really like doing those creative things in camera vs in post.
@@RobTrek Being honest with myself i prefer doing processing from my PC or the phone (when time is scares). Even though it's a great camera, it would appear that when I decide to change my em10 II, the best alternative that actually provides a noticable difference is the EM1 II, or perhaps some of the Panasonic bodies.
@@Eternai91 Yes, the em1-ii would be a significant upgrade. Once you take away the in-camera processing of the penf, then it's all about style. Nothing wrong with that. It's actually the only reason I bought it.
@@RobTrek Yes, nothing wrong with style what so ever. My main "concern" with the EM1 II is that my main investments are the 17mm and 45mm f1/8 primes, which i believe wouldn't fit the larger body as well. Meaning that I'd feel a bit pressured to invest in Pro glass. Nothing wrong with any of the Pro lenses! It's just that photography is incredibly expensive as a hobby for the standard where I live.
Wow, what a great vid. Loaded with goodies. Makes me want a Pen F even more.
Thanks! I love my PenF.
Dear Rob, I have recently purchased a pre-cherished PEN-F with a Panasonic15mm f1.7 lens, as a backup for my EM1 MKII and can't put it down! I have just discovered your channel and am slowly working my way through it. I do like your very relaxed style and teaching skills, which are much appreciated.
Thank you!
Another great video! I have the Pen F & love it but you have pointed out so many additional features that make it an even better camera for walk around & travel.
Thanks. I enjoy the PenF for all those features, so just wanted to share them.
Great! I made some super Nice B&W pictures this way!! Thank you Rob
Glad this helped.
Thorough info, Rob. Cam has what amounts to built-in image editing software. I prefer separate software, myself, but do enjoy using the Pen-F. As you referenced, the retro look was important. When the PenF first came out, street photography camera ergonomics was a big selling point.
Thanks. I experiment sometimes with Olympus Workspace all the settings I want to try in camera before heading out. I then setup the camera based on that initial research. I like seeing the images when in the field in case creative inspiration strikes and I can make the changes in camera.
Excellent tips & special features presentation! I always learn something, Rob! Thx! Best wishes!
Thank you!
Great Video! When I was looking to upgrade my em5 mk1 two years ago I decided to go with the em10ii because of the tilt screen (I love shooting waist level) and also it was about half the price of the em5 ii. I love the penF looks but on paper it seemed a rip-off compared to the em10ii. But your video has me reconsidering due to the features your video revealed.
I'm waiting for the em5-iii too. I'm curious how it's going to improve on what is already a great line up.
@@RobTrek I haven't had time to watch all your videos but do or did you ever own the em5 mk2? Do you prefer the em10ii?
@nexus I had both for a while and sold the EM5ii. It is weatherproof and with the grip is a little easier to handle than the Pen F, but I much preferred the functionality of the Pen F
@nexus I don't own the em5-ii, so can't make videos about it. I don't prefer the em10 over the em5. I just started with the em10, then got the PenF, skipped the em5 and got the em1.
Hi Rob, I am late on this video, but I hope you're seeing it. As an enthusiastic amateur, even if I am happy for changing from Fuji to Olympus, I confess that I never overcome the nostalgia that still remains in my hearth. Olympus gave me better IBIS, more affordable lens, (not allways!), more dof, better size and even better customization. Better evf in samll bodies. But out of the box jpegs from fuji are gorgeous, (like that beautiful oil painting effet), even if I miss the vivid colors that are better with all the other brands. Here I have to agree with Ken Rockwell. However, with the Pen-F, I have the looks that can rival any fuji body and a state of the art color composition in camera. So jpegs are how we want them to be. I can have velvia and more ! I am not a big fun of PP... Before this video I had doubts brtween a Pen-f or a EM1 Mark II. Thanks to you, I am sure about the good choice for me now. Tius is by far the best video about the exclusive features of the Pen-f and I am not talking only about color. All those features you refered are very interesting and important. So thank you very much for this video. I wish you the best ! Francisco
Glad this video helped. I still love my PenF!
I have got a 10mk2, the built in flash is a good idea for me. The screen tilt is good for photo, but is delicated versus the rotary screen in closed position.
The 20Mpx is good, but the ISO response is BEST.
Thank you, Rob, from Madrid, Spain.
Glad to help!
I'm finding that it is not the extra pixels but the newer technology providing a quieter better sensor.
I have two with 20Mp and the rest 16Mp. Whilst the 20Mp can handle higher ISO, they seem to give better results with a faster shutter. I'm supposed to be a radiometrologist and I don't fully understand this as yet. But to get sharp images of birds in flight out of the G9 I'm having to use 1/1500, 1/2000 or faster. With the 16Mp I can maybe go a stop slower to freeze movement blur. I haven't figured out whether it's pixel size, resolution, or stabilisation yet. Probably a combination. May seem a bit ocd but it's innate for a scientist to ask why.
Play with it.
The best camera is the one you are holding. Have fun.
That's really neat. Almost thought about buying it a couple times but I'm really waiting on the EM5 III. Would be nice if they incorporate some of those features in the future EM5, certainly will have 20mp sensor. DSLR like is more my style. Or it would be even better if they drop EM1 II to around $1000 and build a new EM1 III. Probably will never happen.
Yes, I'm waiting on the em5-iii as well. Curious how they will improve on an already great line up!
Thanks Rob, very informative. The comparison videos are always interesting.
Thank you!
Really interesting video, thanks. I have the Pen F and absolutely love it. It’s just such a fun camera to use. I had the EM5ii and for a while kept both, but the functionality of the Pen F is just great. Your analysis really highlights why it is more expensive. I was very sad to hear it’s unlikely to be continued and will treasure mine. I like to leave it set to RAW and then when I use the creative dial - which I do for B&W a lot, I have the best of both raw and Jpeg. I also have the EM1ii for when I shoot action or bad weather so couldn’t justify keeping all 3.
Thanks. I also shoot the raw + jpg just in case I want to post process, but it's rare that I have too. I skipped the em5-ii and got the em1-ii since I already had the Pen F.
The Pen F is one of the cameras I covet most from the past 10-15 years - the D200 (ccd), D3 (or D700), the D4 (or DF), X Pro2, Em1 II, & the Pen F.
Me too!
@@RobTrek Great minds think alike!😂
The E-M10 mark II is a great deal compared to the mark III -- love the metal body :) Actually, my little PL-8 was a sweet deal too! So cheap in 2020 now.
They could release the em10 mark ii as an upgrade to the em10 mark iii. LOL
Thanks for this. I’ve had an EP5 for 6 years and thought about getting the pen f for a while but always felt I couldn’t justify it having an EM5 mk1 and EM1 mk2, but with the Pen F getting cancelled I wondered if I should look out for a bargain - you’ve definitely made up my mind lol!
Thanks for watching! Not sure which way you decided. Still looking to get a PenF or is it off the table now?
Great info as always Rob. Your videos have helped me a lot with my Pen-F's features! I love this camera so much, it's a joy to use.
(I've had several people ask me if it was a film camera since I usually shoot with it closed! Saves a ton of battery, too :)
Thanks. I keep trying!
Where were you two weeks ago! This was almost literally my dilemma - although I had a Pen F and an EM10 mk1 at home. Ended up selling both, and buying an EM10MK2 for the better EVF/IBIS. Saved a ton of money and so far happy with my choice.
No reason not to be happy. The EM10MK2 is awesome! Use the extra cash to buy more important things in life.
Still in 2022 the Pen F have a very good of high photo tech inside,but not on the video side for sure,but that is ok for me ,i am not a video maker.
Excelent video. Thank you for make it. I have the Pen F and I have see all of yours about this camera and I learned a lot with them, and so I can ejoy more with my pretty pen f.
Hi Rob, for my situation I find the Pen F far superior. Sure what you say is right, however for me I am in a wheelchair.
Taking photos, then having to post edit photos can be very difficult for people in a wheelchair. I love the fact I can get the shot I want out of the camera then transfer to my phone and send to family and fiends. However all that aside it looks better handles better and a benefits of 20mp . There are other features that make this Superior to the camera you are comparing to. As said for people in a wheelchair this is a great light camera, and despite 4yrs old, I still would highly recommend to any serious photographer.
Hello, Hanz. I love that about the PenF too. It's still my favorite camera of all the ones I own. I recommend it as an "Only" camera or "Second" camera to everyone. However, I rarely tell people that it is an upgrade to any camera. It really stands on it's own and is unique.
K thanks for the advise Rob.Like many other people would advice.I just purchase a oly 17mm f1.8 and looking foreward to get the lens.I am a keen street photographer and do not really want splashproof/freeseproof etc.
Using bad weather as an excuse not to go outside? You are missing most fun if you live in a rainy city like Seattle 8)
I keep forgetting the custom Oly settings and at times gravitate to my old Nikon DSLRs.
Nothing wrong with the Nikon! I need to dust mine off and take them out sometime.
Just purchased the pen f as a walk around camera to go with my omd1 mk 2 finding it a great camera with the 17 mm lens very light to walk around with
It's my walk around camera too!
12:15 You know what would be better? If the focal length setting is integrated in (or can be set to be put into) the control panel.
Great review, by the way. I have the EM10-2 but been lovestruck by the Pen-F since its release because of the flip screen. But it's too late, already got the 10-2. Heheheh... I love it though. Great size, great design; better than other Olympuses IMO, except Pen-F. That thing is perfect... perfectly out of my league. For now.
Thanks. You'll get there soon enough. It's a great camera. The focal length can be accessed through the ibis setting in the super control panel. 2 clicks and you're there.
Gotta love that BM Video Assist 5"!
Comes in handy!
I appreciate being able to flip the screen right around, but I would still have preferred a tilting screen I just can't get used to the screen sticking out the side when I'm trying to shoot at waist level or low level. The camera really is a joy to use though, and I love the black and white jpegs The camera came in for all kinds of criticism when it was released, but I think that most reviewers just didn't get it, just didn't understand how it was meant to be used. I had a chuckle the other day reading a review of a Nikon lens I own which is getting rave reviews. This guy said it was total garbage, but I couldn't see if he actually had one. So I asked him and he said he was basing his review on other F4 lenses he had owned, and was sure all F4 lenses were garbage! Not only had he not shot with it, he hadn't even seen one. I suspect a lot of the negative feedback on this camera was by people who had never used it.
Thanks. Yes, the tilty screen is my preference for photos too. Why would anyone talk about a specific lens and give an opinion on it if they never even seen one? It's okay to generalize and disclose you've never used one so it leaves room for exceptions or corrections. Like I would say most vintage zoom lenses suck and would avoid them, but if someone can name a specific exception to the rule, then at least I left some wiggle room by saying "most".
Certain opinions seem to go "viral." All kinds of people are saying that micro four-thirds image quality is terrible. Some get quite passionate about it. I've had people call me names on line for defending it. However, I'm pretty sure they are repeating popular wisdom they've run into on review sites. I doubt they have ever used one for the most part. The same with the f4 debate. The lens I was speaking about was the new Nikon 14-30 F4S. I haven't read one review where somebody has tested the lens and doesn't rave about it. But this idea that any lens can't be any good if its F4 is widespread. Personally, I would much rather carry an F4 than an F2.8 at twice the size and weight. The old Nikon 200mm F4 AIS is another one. Nice and small and compact, and supposedly good image quality, and cost $100. But horrors! It's only f4! Well that one's on my shopping list. Same with the Olympus 40-150 F4-5.6. OK it's not the 40-150 2.8, but it fits in a jacket pocket and I've got some great shots with it. I sold my first copy and still regretting it. My 2.8 sits at home most of the time. That lens weights almost as much as my whole travel kit. One of the things I like about your channel is you go out and use the equipment and show the results. So please keep it up.
That 200mm f/4 is awesome! I'll have to find a 14-30 f/4. The widest I have for my nikon is a 20mm.
Hello Rob, very nice video, I just learned a few new tricks ...
I too have E-M10ii and PEN-F , but found myself using the PEN-F over the E-M10 . I love the B&W images which the PEN-F is producing, no need for Light Room . Olympus is not making them anymore, does anybody know if PEN-F II is in works ???
Thanks. I doubt a Pen F II is ever coming. A followup was never planned to begin with. They need to really knock it out of the park with the E-M5-iii, drawing buyers away from Sony and Fuji.
21:28 "...PEN-F gives so much more control..." -- indeed, but at 4x the price! :D
Most of the things you were talking about are meaningful for those about to use JPGs produced directly within the camera -- but using E-M10 Mark II one can still decide "any more sophisticated cases I'll process using RAWs and Lightroom".
Of course PEN-F is the alternative for most demanding (and qualified) users, because for the most of the others its firmware can be somewhat overwhelming. Even menu system of E-M10 Mark II is quite complex, let alone the one of PEN-F.
So there's a need to ask yourself a question: "do I really need that much?" and consider, that E-M10 Mark II can be bought for a quarter of the price of PEN-F. So there's a choice: PEN-F vs the "little one" along with very fine lens.
Besides: there also are things PEN-F can't do -- like, for example, some of the "creative toys" its little brother offers (e.g. "photo story"). No "scenery" selection on the dial -- well, I agree, users of PEN-F most probably wouldn't use it anyway, but still: E-M10 Mark II has it, right?
No question the E-M10 mark II is one of the best cameras ever made. Using Olympus Workspace, you can do anything with the E-M10ii that you can do with a PenF - including all the jpg special features of the PenF. The only difference is the PenF let's you do more in the field rather than post. Good point about the Scenery mode. I think the PenF is missing Story mode to (although I'm not sure right now.)
what is the final output format of post editing? JPEG? if a camera can customize 90% or more of what you want in jpg, why bother to do it in post? shooting 'jpg' is not necessary for amateurs!
@@RobTrek much later I noticed one more difference: PEN-F seems to be somehow using/discharging its battery even when just lying on the shelf unused, while the battery in E-M10 can stay in unused camera long time still keeping its charge.
I wonder did you notice that disadvantage in your PEN-F?
Perhaps a better "comparison" would have been made to the E-M5 Mark II with which the PEN-F shares a lot of hardware, they were developed and released around the same time. The menus are still different but the E-M5ii has more capabilities than the E-M10ii. (The E-PL7 shares hardware with the E-M10ii). I realty like the tilt screen on the E-PL7, it would suit the way the PEN-F handles but the flip out screen suits the E-M5ii very well. Hard to explain, they work in the hand differently, haptics.
Where are the ART and SCN filters on the PEN-F? It took me a moment to figure out. They have to be assigned to C3 and C4. I can live without the SCN but being a jpeg monster found I want the ART filters on the PEN-F.
On the Lens Info settings, if you adapt a zoom lens, put the longest focal length in as the stabiliser will use that. It's often more about weight and balance than focal length and with some lenses the stabiliser has to be cheated on the F/L, adapted film lenses can be long and heavy.
Thanks for the tips. I didn't have the E-M5 Mark II when I made this video, so couldn't do that comparison.
Rob, another great video and timely. I’ve been considering the pen-f for a few months. I’m disappointed the pen-f isn’t being continued. I’ve been holding off purchasing a new camera in hopes of a new release of the pen-f, but not to be, or do I wait for the em-5 III?
I suspect the EM5 update will incorporate much of these features since it is unlikely that Olympus will drop such useful consumer features when the Pen-F is discontinued.
I'd wait for the em5-iii. I'm curious what it will bring to the table. I hope they do more than just add 4k.
I bought the 10mkii for my big bros 51s t bday this april!he showed me how nice the wifi is on the camera!and he says he will try to take some sunsets in 4K mode next weekend!I am pretty sure I will get the 5mkii for myself in october! I hate recording video on my Nikon D750 and my photopusher doesnt sell Panasonic, so no GH4-5 for me!
Very generous of you! Lucky brother you have there. By October, the 5mkiii will be out or announced, so maybe get a smoking deal on the mkii or get the mkiii if it's any good. The 4k mode is only for timelapse stuff, which I have a video on if interested. Too bad about panasonic not available. It's currently the superior video camera choice.
@@RobTrek I asked him about the GH4 when it came out!he doesnt sell Panasonic as mentioned! I pay in rates and can choose the good stuff and pay over time! if the price of the 5mkiii is over 2-2.500 dollars im out and will choose the 5mkii for sure!!
And Rob the Pen F do Both, Stacking and bracketing in camera ;)
Hi Rob. I just bought the em10 mk2 but Amazon sent me the PEN F by mistake. Should I keep the PEN F? I want the camera that gives me more options to improve my photography skills
Lucky you! Yes, keep the PenF. It is a much better camera.
Your blessed
Love it when they make misstakes in your favour!! One time I purchased a Lenovo, but they accidentally sent me a higher end model!
Hi Rob.I am thinking if getting a Pen F to advance my photography and also i saw a lot of advance option on the Pen F.Would you advise my to go for it although its discontinued by olympus.I was also looking at the EM5 MK11 but think the Pen F should be a better one.I am now using my EM10 MK11 and still loves it.From a price point the EM1 MK11 and the forthcoming EM5 MK111 wil be above my price range.please advise.
I wouldn't let the camera being discontinued deter you from getting it. I wouldn't buy it specifically to advance your photography, the EM10 Mark 2 is a more than capable camera to take you as far as you want to go. The PenF is an excellent jpg camera for playing with color and monotone and has features not found on any other camera regardless of brand. So if you enjoy setting up color profiles while in the field, it makes a great choice. Otherwise, most settings can be done in post processing with workspace or lightroom. If you need weather sealing, mic jack, and fully articulating screen, then the em5 mark 2 would be a great upgrade. It has better IBIS and more advanced features. But again, not sure it's worth the price difference over the em10 mark 2 in terms of image quality and advancing your photography. I think money will be better spent on new lenses.
Great video Rob (as always). Now a question. For general walk around vacation photos should I keep EM1 MkI or trade towards PEN F ????
I'd keep the EM1 for now. Wait and see what the em5-iii brings to the table!
Hello Rob, one question to my Pen F: the automatic switch betwwen EVF and display is no more enabled - I now must switch manually. What is the fault I have done? The switching between on an out in menue doesn`t work.
make sure the menu setting is "On". Also, try cleaning the eye sensor to the right of the evf.
THANK YOU - it works!!!
Thank you Rob. Very informative. Do you know of a good book on the Pen F? Like "The complete guide to the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mk II", I have not been able to find one. If there is not one available, perhaps you should write one in that format. I am sure many of us your subscribers would purchase it immediately.
Good shooting
Thanks. I don't know of any good books on any camera. The best places to look are the dedicated forums like mu43 and dpreview for help and ideas.
Hi, Another fascinating video Rob.Your older ones on the Olympus menu system really helped me get the most out of my Pen F. Regarding books I did find this one on the Kindle book store which I also found a useful reference, though it is a bit like an alternative instruction book...’The Olympus pen f menu system simplified” by David Thorpe ( Kindle book)
David is the best!
Dear Rob, very nice review. I have installed a soft-release shutter button on my Pen-F, but when stored in its leather jacket case, the shutter button is kept pressed. Is that something to harm the camera?
Thank you. Probably will be okay short term, but the shutter is not designed to be pressed continuously. I may be a problem down the road.
Hello, I note what you say, which highlights the improved features of the Pen F, however I really question how many people would spend so much time in the field doing all those in camera adjustments
I usually setup before I head out, then make minor tweaks if needed. It would be very time consuming even for me to experiment in the field. Sometimes creative inspiration strikes and it's nice to be able to make the changes in camera while in the moment.
To all shoppers: tell Olympus you want ☝️! They can make more! 😋
Does the M10 Mark ll allow for live viewing on both the LCD as well as thru the EVF? Thanks..... also do you feel the changing of settings such as shadows, or contrast, or grain etc,...is as easy in the Mark ll as in the Pen F?
Not at the same time. Yes, changing settings is about the same on either camera.
Whoever was sitting on the right side of the shot got away.
Haha! Actually, I was charging some batteries and rested the charger upside down from the wall. It just finally gave way.
You definitely do a better job than Olympus in showing what the Pen F is actually about (not lifestyle, for sure, but a lot of useful features - the one feature that is missing is weather sealing, sadly).
You missed the most important feature, though, that makes the Pen F quite unique in the Olympus MFT line-up: The cable release thread! Okay, I'm not completely serious here, but this actually was a factor for me, and it does come in handy from time to time, because I can use all the cable releases that I have for my analog cameras that are always in my bag.
And I like the leathered side of the screen, less problems with touchscreen functionality, and the screen is better protected. I have it this way most of the time, it has something of the Leica M10-D that I can't afford … ;-)
Thanks. You are so right about the cable release being unique! I can't believe I missed that. I usually pick up on those little things. (face palm!). I might have to do another video just for that one feature.
@@RobTrek Well, easy to overlook ;-) Thinking about it - I seldomly use a cable release with my Pen F, because most of the time using the self-timer is sufficient.
Me too. I only used my wireless trigger once. In practice, I'd rather wait 2 seconds than bring another battery operated device and it takes more than 2 seconds to screw in a cable release.
I agree about the weather sealing. I ended up buying the EM5 M2 because of that - otherwise I would have bought the Pen F.
Another great video Rob. Thank you. Maybe the PEN F for my next camera when I have more experience. I know this maybe a stupid request but can you do a short video on camera care and cleaning lenses? thank you
Thanks. I'm the last one person you want to ask about cleaning and care! Generally I use a dry tooth brush and keyboard vacuum for the camera and some rubbing alchohol on a q-tip for grime.
@@RobTrek what about lenses? Do we clean both ends?
Yes, both ends. Usually just need an air blower for the rear, then use a q-tip with rubbing alcohol and distilled water for the front element. ruclips.net/video/yH-N6-lzOgM/видео.html
thank you Robfor taking the time to respond.
thank you @@johnG-x8l for your suggestions.
Can you change the items in the menu with the touch screen on the em 10? I know you can't on the pen F.
Not that I know of Kenny. Sorry. -Rob
Of assistance in 2020. Have just purchased a 2nd nib Pen F as just loved using the minty Pen F + nib 12-40 2.8 combo. Real fun combination, but whilst I can find my way around the Menus, can't seem to set up permanent settings? I shoot in Aperture priority 99% of the time.
How do I make settings assign to C1-4 etc. Do I just turn custom dial to e.g. C1,2 3 etc & does that capture the various individual settings made while dial set to e.g C1?
Thanks.
Hi. I did a video on setting up custome settings for the E-M10. It's very similar to the PenF Here (starting at 16 minutes) ruclips.net/video/k5AqXNaUG44/видео.html
The Olympus cameras were released in pairs around then.
E-PL7 September 2014 and contained a lot of the E-M10 II before the E-M10 II.
E-M10 II September 2015
E-M5 II February 2015
PEN-F January 2016 and developed from the E-M5 II platform.
Whilst I do not have an E-M10 - I do have the E-PL7, E-M5ii and PEN-F. The differences between the PEN-F and the E-M5ii are not as great as between the PEN-F/E-M5ii and the E-PL7. As noted, the PEN-F is in many ways unique and a very different camera.
This is not to say that one is better than the other - the E-M5ii is excellent and like the PEN-F has Sync-IS. The PEN-F is "different". And the tiny tilting E-PL7 is possibly my favourite pocket camera, it even takes the tilting VF4 EVF. But whereas the E-PL7 is 3 axes, the E-M10ii got 5 axes as with the E-M5ii and PEN-F. In use with the E-PL7 as a pocket camera, this makes not a bit of difference, it's not a camera you put huge lenses on.
Where a lens has OIS, which is most of the Lumix range, they will use "Olympus Dual Stabilisation" where OIS and IBIS operate simultaneously but unsynchronised. This not only helps framing the shot but aids focusing.
I think the PEN-F might have been better with a tilt screen, it is really not a hybrid video camera, but I think they wanted to style it with a closed blank back, form over function fail.
I've heard the same thing about the PenF screen. They wanted it to close and hide the screen.
There’s a significant price difference to the em10 mark ii. Not worth it in my opinion & guessing that’s why sales volume is too low for Olympus to justify continuing this product.
E-M10-ii is a bargain! Everything you need, nothing you don't.
Hi Rob:
I love your videos which I discovered a few weeks ago. You turned me on to the Pen F which I have been coveting since that time. I finally decided it would make a nice 72nd birthday present, and I received a used body today. It has a couple of scratches but overall it’s in great condition! So, I was wondering what lens is on your Pen F that you show in your video. Thanks for all you do!
Thanks and Happy Birthday! The lens is a 35mm f/1.7 cctv lens. I did a vlog with it recently here: ruclips.net/video/aDiBz2AY_28/видео.html
well not an olympus shooter but I enjoy watching anyways : )
I was just watching your anime video! Looking for inspiration for my next photowalk.
@@RobTrek I think the flowers could come out great in anime style - actually I just ordered another macro attachment for my phone- 60x - should be fun and only cost about 5 dollars : )
Hi Rob i love your videos can you do a review on the Olympus EM10-markiii..And maybe compare it with the EM5Markii and maybe show us some AF-C tips related to the olympus EM10-markiii..Thanks in Advance..
Hi, Kartik. Thanks. I don't own the E-m10-iii, ro the e-m5-ii, so can't do any comparison or testing.
I think...after using my Sony A57 for a week now...that the screen on your Pen is better...as far as flipping out and spinning around...and only for one reason...when I have the Sony on the tripod and go to flip the screen down....you cant see past the tripod..the tripod is in the way...I will soon be using a tripod so it does not affect me as much now as it will further down the road.
Tripods are essential!
How do you switch between color profiles 1, 2 and 3 with the dial (14:30)? If i turn the dial in that situation it switches from "Color Profile 1" to "Mono Profile 1". The only way i know how to switch between 1, 2 and 3 is by pressing the "OK"-button, which is not ideal. I would appreciate an answer, because this is something i find really annoying.
When the creative dial is on color mode, I simply go into the super control panel and highlight the color profile box and rotate the front dial.
@@RobTrek Thanks! My Pen F behaves different. Have to see if i find out why
Nice video.
I’m considering buying the Pen F. I’ve heard some rumors that the Pen F might be discontinued. Do you know anything about this?
I’ve also heard that. It might mean the price drops? Maybe they’ll incorporate the features in the next EM5iii. I really love my Pen F
I've heard the same and wouldn't be surprised if they dropped it. Hopefully they made enough to stock the used market.
A few years back when I was seriously considering the switch from DSLR to Mirrorless (after nearly 40 years with Canon), Olympus was a top contender, especially the Pen F, primarily due to that stunning retro design, so reminiscent of my Father' s Pen growing up on the 70s. However, after testing a friend's camera for a week, I decided on Fuji's line up. I was simply not that crazy about the micro 4/3 format. Fuji's retro design (shutter speed dial, f-stop ring on most of their X-Lenses) in part won me over as well as the larger ASP-C sensor and I felt that I got more bang for the buck. Still, the Pen F is a beautiful camera.
Thanks for sharing. I was in a similar situation but went Olympus. I'll have to tell the whole story one day on why I ultimately went with Olympus but I do love the fujifilm cameras. I actually have 4 old compact camera fujifilms. My F10 still takes great pictures! I shop fujifilm cameras time to time, just not ready to invest in another system.
@@RobTrek Indeed, I never saw the need for having two camera systems. When I was shooting news, most photogs were "married" to a single system and back then (the 80s) Nikon was the king. I was the odd man out as I was a Canon shooter, few papers stocked Canon glass or rigs, so I was on my own. The pressure to switch to Nikon from colleagues and editors was tough, but I simply did not want to make the switch, largely due to the cost, plus I knew Canon and I loved the system. Who knew that in 6 short years the tables would turn and Canon would usurp the throne?
Interesting. I was shooting Minolta Maxxum and Olympus OM-2s at the time. Just a hobby. But I remember Nikon was a bit pricey.
I agree. Fuji is knocking it out of the park. Had both brands. Prefer the Fuji so much more.
Does Olympus still support 4/3 cameras?
The Olympus camera division is now known as OM-Systems. They still support m4/3.
Hey Rob, have you looked into the E-P7? I'm curious if it is comparable to the Pen-F or if it packs the build quality or any features.
Unfortunately, they don't offer the E-P7 here in the USA. So I've never seen on in person. That said, features look to be everything the PenF is without an EVF.
👍
Any truth to the rumour that there may be a new PEN from OM systems?
Not that I know of. We can only hope!
Hallo Rob Trek
Greet Video. I use the omd em5 from 2014 and me Pen F from 2018 . And you help me Thank You.
mit freundlichem Gruß aus dem Schaumburger Land
Matthias
Thanks for watching!
They really need to do a Pen-F II with PDAF and dump the OM-5.
PenF II would be great!