Getting this lens plus a Panasonic 20mm f1.7 or Olympus 17mm/f1.8 is the most wonderful intro you can have to m43 or any camera system. Everything the reviewer says about the lens is true.
Your comparison between 17mm phone shot and 45mm is something no one has tried giving in a RUclips review. A lot of times I need to carry a 14mm on one camera to get the entire wide angle outdoors and this would be perfect to get closer shots on my second camera. Thanks.
I handled this in the shop when buying my OMD EM10 Mark II and I could not believe how small it was. It actually put me off! It shouldn't have done so I am going to watch your review to see whether I should get this or the 25/1.8 as a first prime lens. Good reviews by the way! I have subscribed just now. I like the landscapes with the longer focal length and the narrowed perspective. Nice cat too!
My favourite lens is the Olympus 17mm f1.8, nothing comes close to that. I bought the 45mm f1.8 at the same time to provide a set but never used it; well I dont take portraits, hate bokeh, hate shallow depth of field. So the 45mm just gathered dust in my drawer. Then late summer I took it to the zoo just to see what it was like. OMG this little lens totally blew me away, it was so sharp and contrasty with stunning colour. At 90mm it gets in close and with a x2 zoom it closes in on any zoo animal. More importantly to me the depth of field is huge so I also get the habitat as well. No way could I take zoo animals like this with a DSLR. And in use it looks like I am holding a compact and I have occasionally used it x4 to get shots that nobody with a DSLR and 300mm prime was getting by holding teh camera in strange places using teh tilt screen. This lens has become my nature lens of choice, all it needed was to find its niche; it has completely replaced my 14-140mm ;-)
yes its a great lens....i am wondering why you start talking about wide angle, its not marketed as a wide angle and its a long way from a wide angle as everyone knows...on olympus you need at a minumim 12mm to get 24 which is considered where wide angle photography starts.
Many thanks for the Interesting review, the lens is equivalent to 90 mm in Normal Film lenses, which is Ideal for Portraits and could also be used as standard lens, as used in the original Rolleiflex and Haselblad film cameras. My question is how is this lens performing in Video Shooting, please respond.
The 45mm is my second favorite lens, as the Pan-Leica 25mm 1.4 is my first due to it's wider focal length. As a micro 4/3rds system user and advocate, it's refreshing to stumble upon a reviewer who doesn't feel compelled to needlessly convert focal lengths and apertures to it's 35mm "full-frame" equivalences. Once more reviewers do away with such conversions, people unfamiliar with the system (and those who criticize it) can have a greater understanding and appreciation of the strengths and benefits of m43rds. Thank you and looking forward to more reviews in the future.
Thanks for watching :) IMO, the "35mm equivalent" talk is useful for folks that use those cameras (and KNOW how to use them), but for folks used to shooting photos with point-and-shoots, iPhones, or even entry-level DSLRs, it doesn't mean anything and just confuses the point. In fact, I'd probably avoid mentioning focal length at all if we had a better way to describe field of view and identifying specific lenses. But for now, FOV is still "measured" in focal length, and lenses are identified by it. I wish we, as photographers, gravitated toward an "angle of view" measurement to identify lenses. "It's not a 25mm lens, it's a 47-degree lens."
Michromatic I think the conversion to 35mm equivalent is still helpful: while I know what is the crop factor for a micro 4/3, I don't know what sensor the iPhone has, so I can't quite place that 17mm...
***** Yup, Olympus do put in on the box. Bought it a few days ago, checked the box. Gotta agree that people should be aware of that all lenses use the 35mm format as a standard, so they don't get all surprised when they see the difference between a 50mm on a m43 and 50mm on a full-frame.
It is easy for the conversion between four thirds and full frame though because it is half. So this 45mm is equivalent to 90mm on a full frame correct? I don't mind hearing the equivalent when four thirds is just halfing the full frame focal length. Sorry if im wrong about this, i have an EM-5 and it's my first camera. I have the 25mm, 45mm and 12mm and they are great lenses. If I was to suggest two lenses to start with it would be the 12mm and the 45mm. 25mm is the most practical but the least exciting in my opinion..
Michromatic That's a fair point, but it would disguise [for those who'd have any conception of it] the relative DoF characteristics which remain [more or less] constant according to focal length+aperture and bear no relation to AoV. I too am a fan of good subject isolation - which means fast primes are a bit of a must for the m43 format, at least at non-telephoto lengths. I do find it a little odd though that you don't seem to factor in any consideration of Panasonic lenses. Like one of your other viewers my personal favourite is the PanLeica 25/1.4 which is very good for limiting DoF for body/group shots and that additional 1/3 counts. Possibly if I could afford it my affections might be transferred to the PanLeica 42.5/1.2 - arguably the 'best' native m43 lens currently available. I do have the Oly 45 though and if you were to say it's probably the best 'bang for buck' for the format I would be hard pressed to argue. The legacy OM 50/1.8s have a completely different 'look' to the newer lenses. Perhaps a bit fiddly as a workaday optic, but copies plus an adapter can be had so cheaply there's little reason not to own and play with one in addition to the 45.
I own this lens and use it quite a bit. It's the real deal. It's razor sharp, and when I attach my MCON-P01 macro converter on it, it's unbelievable for those kinds of shots. Not a true macro lens in the case (like the Oly 60mm f2.8), but it's awfully good. That said, I also have the Panasonic Leica Summilux 25mm f1.4, and it's spectacular as well. I especially enjoy shooting cityscapes at night with that one. If you shoot Micro 4/3, you really need something close to both of those focal lengths in your kit. They complement each other well for different purposes. But if I had to choose only one to keep, it would be the 45mm only because it provides that nice bokeh at an appropriate focal length for portraiture...and it can shoot well at night too if you adjust to the focal length.
Very good review! You style is excellent. I've already decided on the 45mm, but you somehow managed to amp that to the dead-sure-decided levels. Especially how you covered the landscape aspects, of which i'm highly interested additionally. Yes, i do understand it's great for portraits etc. But when so much of it, SO much of it is about portraits, flowers, bokeh craze, with shaky artsy footage... Well, i'm thankful that you're around :) Happy shooting everybody!
Hello, excellent review! Thanks for doing that. Could you please share with me what type of camera and lens you used to shoot this video with? I have seen a ton of RUclips videos, and I publish many myself, and I have never seen 720p look this sharp. Could you please also tell me what compression settings you are using? Thanks!
Great lens. I love that with mirrorless I can slap a ND filter on in the bright sun and shoot them wide open without affected the view through the EVF. Big advantage.
Had this lens in the past, sold it when I sold the E-M10 kit, got a D800, and sold that to get the E-M1 + 12-40 2.8. Getting this for portraits, it's sublime.
subscribed! really like your posts. well balanced channel, well presented information, tone, speed, eloquence, etc. good job and wish you success. thanks for the work you do.
Hello, i'm about to buy a OMD 10 or the EM 10MARK II, the thing is that , the second one has both mechanical and electronic shutter, while the first one has only the mechanical. i'm wondering if this is an importing reason the choose the EM10 over the EM10MARK II? caus i shoot with big apertures and i hate that overexposure result..Second question: i've been ofered the kit 14-42 EZ and the 14-42 II R , which one u think is better? thank you very much and i'm waiting for your answer!! hope u help me :)
Hey man, love your channel! I know you'd recommend the 25 1.8 as a first prime, but at the moment it costs twice as much as the 45mm (in Europe), so I'm kinda leaning towards buying the latter. I'm mostly outdoors, so do you think the 9mm fisheye and the kit zoom I already have combined with the 45 would be a good set up, or should I just save some more and get the 25?
Looks pretty good. But I can't believe it's a patch on my LUMIX nocticron 42.5mm f1.2 (Admittedly the noccy is very ££) What's your thoughts on the Olympus 12mm f2?
While looking on on the screen of my camera by a sonny day, I can not determine if I'm going to take a nice photo, an underexpose photo or a blurry photo. Without a view finder, does it has any way to take nice photos in manual mode?
Those are my two main lenses too--I'm just getting a micro four thirds set-up going. I wonder if I would have been happier with the 'Leica' 25mm f1.4 over the Olympus 17mm f1.8. Dunno. Maybe I'll have to pick up the 25mm also, haha. But I'm also super tempted by some of the really nice Olympus glass: the 12mm, 75mm, and 12-40mm Pro zoom.
Tzadeck I had the Olympus 25mm before. While it's a sharp lens, I didn't quite get used to the 50mm equivalent FOV which made me decide to sell it. The 17mm + 45mm works really well for me.
Hmm, I see. I do think a 50mm equivalent would be good to have when hanging out with friends. Since it's a little longer and the Panasonic Leica lens is f1.4, I figure I could get a bit of bokeh pretty easily if I wanted to take a shot of a few friends. The 17mm is too short a focal length to easily blur the background, and the 45mm's focal length is long enough that you have to be super far away to take a picture of more than one person. That and the Panny 25mm is supposed to be super sharp--I can be a bit of a pixel peeper.
Is there a way to turn off the stupid variable focus speed for manual focusing? It makes shooting video almost impossible if your subject distance changes.
+Michelle N My picks for best first lens: (1) Olympus 25mm f/1.8. (2) Panasonic 25mm f/1.7. (3) Panasonic 20mm f/1.7. Any one of those will do! ruclips.net/video/4qANiuIBUEc/видео.html
i have the pana 25mm 1.7 and am very happy with it. want to get the 45mm + a wide angle to have a simple prime set to use for photos + videos on the GH5
I've um-ed and ah-ed over whether to go for the Olympus 25mm f/1.8 or the Panasonic 25mm f1/7. Went as far as actually ordering the Panasonic from Amazon but have cancelled and have gone with the Olympus. Price wasn't an issue for me and from comparing pics I've seen taken with both, for some reason I preferred the Olympus. Both seem to be rated so highly so it was a REALLY hard decision.
what do you think about getting this lens and a panasonic 20mm f/1.7 for $375? They're both in great condition and i believe the 45mm comes with a uv filter.. I already have a panasonic 25mm 1.7 but it seems like too good of a deal to pass up lol.. let me know
Nunez87 The funny thing is, I had a Canon Rebel with the Canon 50mm before I got into Micro 4/3, but I didn't use it as much as I should have -- I didn't realize how much I liked the focal length because I got it in my head that it was for portraits, not everyday use. I was wrong.
Michromatic Isn't the 45mm micro 4/3 format equivalent to a 90mm on Canon/Nikon? So the nifty 50mm on a Canon you were referring to would be closer to the 25mm lens on an Olympus.
DmaaaaaxC If comparing the field of view to a full-frame (or 35mm film) camera, yes, the 45mm lens on a Micro 4/3 camera will give the same field of view as a 90mm lens on the other system. The 25mm Olympus I reviewed has the same field of view as a 50mm lens on full-frame cameras. (If you took that same 50mm lens and adapted it to work on an Olympus camera, it would have the field of view of a 100mm lens on a full-frame camera.)
I decide to skip 14-42 3.5 Pancake (kit lense) and just add extra money for the 45mm 1.8 - also i wonder what is the best and wider lense for general daily use, 20mm/25mm or 17mm? and if 25 or 20mm they which, Olympus or Panasonic? I will be using with E-M10 Mark III.
Here's another 25mm or 45mm question. Should I still get the 45mm if I already have a legacy OM 50mm 1.8? Or would it be too similar (regarding focal length) that I should just go for the 25mm? Or perhaps the benefits of autofocus and native mount is already worth it for getting the 45mm and just toss out my old 50mm?
Personally, yes, I would still get the 45mm. I have the 45mm and an old, manual 38mm lens. Focal lengths are pretty similar and I find myself using the lenses for roughly the same framing. BUT the 45mm has autofocus and generally has better optics -- it's sharper wide open, and doesn't flare -- so it's definitely the more useful lens. I still use my 38mm lens when I don't need autofocus because I love its character, but it doesn't fully replace the 45mm.
Toss out the old OM 50mm f1.8 and get this 45mm f1.8. I used the OM 50mm. And got rid of it after seeing and comparing results with this little silver 45mm here. Which is sharper, And a beautiful little lens to handle
Thank you for this video I'm just a newbie here. Planning to buy Olympus Omd em5 mark ii. Im into self-photography. What do you think? I guess this lens is truly the best one! 😍
Hi ! I am very new to photography and following your videos to learn more. I have an Olympus E-M10 with 14-42mm EZ lens. I came across this Olympus 3CON-P01 lens conversion kit. As a newbie and with a restricted budget, I was thinking to buy the conversion kit rather than buy different lenses. What do you think of the conversion kit? I am not much into sports and wildlife photography. More of a traveller who likes taking potrait and landscape shots. Is it good enough to start off with?
I'm not familiar with that convertor. I do have an MCON P02 macro convertor and it works pretty well. I don't do a lot of macro, so for me it made sense to get a convertor rather than spend more for a full-on macro lens. If I planned to do a lot of macro, however, it would be worth paying extra.
I have a Zuiko 25mm for portrait photos I take and I'm very happy with it, however Im looking for something to use outdoors, body shots, kids playing in the park .... What do you recommend? Thank you,
Hello! I'm looking for a tird MFT lens to add to my repetoire. currently I have a 12-42 mm and a 40-150 mm lens. Im' hesitating between this lens or the 12-50. What i'm looking for is is sharpness, nice portret, and good evening shots. Wich one of hte two would you recommend? love the review, i've subscribed
+FunThemePark Based on what you've said, the 45mm is a no-brainer over the 12-50. The 12-50 doesn't do anything that your other lenses don't already do (except macro). The 45mm will give you much better low-light performance and bokeh.
Great,great,great review! Thanks a lot! You mix foto-and vid-examples in way that makes all so interesting. What camera did you use for the fotos? I have know the e-p5 and I'll get this lens this week. Thanks again for this great vid and best wishes from Switzerland!
Hi, great review... Im an amateur in this... I have a quick question, If I use this lens on a Panasonic GH3, will it be impossible to use the auto-focus ??
Cesar Flores Yes, this lens will work 100% with your GH3, autofocus included. Do note that this lens, like all Olympus lenses, does not have stabilization built in. At 45mm, I don't think stabilization is a must except in low light. You might, however, look at Panasonic's new 42.5mm f/1.7 lens. Very similar focal length to this lens, AND it has stabilization. It's a newer lens and may cost a bit more because of it. Personally, I don't think you can go wrong with either lens. Just something to keep in mind.
Michromatic Gee thanks... definitely will check them both out. Keep up the good work man, already subscribed to your channel... Greetings all the way from Mexico !
Hi! first thing. I love your channel! I own a G7 with 14-42 and 45-150. I was thinking of buying a fast prime for better low light and to have better background blur (I also value sharpness a lot). However I cannot afford many or too expensive lenses. I was thinking about panasonic 20mm 1.7 or sigma 30mm 1.4. Do you think that 30mm would be to thight (fov) for an allround lens?
Great video. However, this is the 45mm for micro 4/3, so this is actually a 90mm in full frame size, right? Coming from Canon camera, I could not understand why you were talking about headshots only with a 45mm. This is a bit confusing.
Thanks for the great review. I am thinking of getting this for my pen epl2. Either that or I just get a new omd em10 and use the kit lens. I mostly want to take better portraits. Any thoughts on what would be the better choice?
Hm, tough choice. The 45/1.8 lens will be a nice step up from the kit lens for portraits. I think it'll make the biggest difference. That said, the EM10 is a great bargain camera and a worthwhile upgrade from the EPL2.
@Michromatic Excellent review video and what a beautiful cat :) one question : how does this lens hold up for video ? (could you explain) I just bought a gh4 and I am brand new in the field of photography and videography , I want to use a lens for making my own youtube video's . thanks for any advice on the matter.
+Dave Clark It's as good as any for video, will really depend on the framing you're looking for. Though as you've got the GH4, I suggest checking out the Panasonic version of this lens -- the 42.5mm f/1.7. The Panasonic lens has stabilization, which you'll definitely want if shooting video at this focal length.
You're reviews are very pleasant and refreshing to watch. I'm wondering if you could make a review for the 12mm f2 and the 17mm 1.8? I already own all 3 of these lenses but would enjoy hearing your thoughts on them.
LocoLynx I'll probably review the 12mm eventually. To be honest, I had a hard time using a lens that wide, but I think I'm getting better. As for the 17mm, I actually just sold it -- great little lens, but I wanted to pick up a Ricoh GR and I couldn't justify having both the Ricoh and a 17mm.
It's confusing, but short answer is: no, not quite. The iPhone doesn't actually have a 17mm lens -- it's actually less than 5mm. But the field of view you get is roughly equivalent to a 34mm full-frame camera. I divided the number in half to get a number equivalent to Micro 4/3. A bunch of crop factor nonsense. iPhone gives a wide angle of view. This Olympus lens gives a narrower angle of view. That's what matters.
Ah so you used an MFT equivalent FOV for the iPhone focal length to compare with the Olympus. Got it. Would be more common to use full frame equivalent, though.
Hi, I'm new to photography recenty purchased omd m10+14-42 pancake+40-150, i'm looking for a prime mostly shooting holiday photos in a city usualy, , friends and family, I'm strugling to diside between the 45 and 25 mm. which should i go for? Thanks!
+Theo Your zooms cover all the common ranges, so I think you're free to make an exciting decision rather than a practical one :) I'd recommend the 45mm.
how far away physically from a person shooting a head and shoulders portrait approximately would you need to stand to frame their head and shoulders shooting at this focal length with micro four thirds? thank you
Hello! I'm new on photography and I've just bought an Olympus OM-D E-M10 with the M. Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm f/3,5-5,6 EZ. At the end of the video you say that the 45mm f/1.8 is a great complement for a standard, wide angle normal lens. What is it in terms of lens specifications a mode standard lens? Thank you or whoever will answer my question :).
+Natalia Alonso Movilla You already have everything you need to get started. The next lens you should consider is the 40-150 to give you a total range of 14-150. What f1.8 gives you that the zooms don't is a more out of focus background. I doubt you'll see the extra sharpness in anything smaller than an 11x14 print.
+Natalia Alonso Movilla "Standard" is a common description for a lens that gives roughly a 47-degree field of view. In Micro 4/3 terms, that's a 25mm lens (on a full frame camera, it's 50mm). The field of view through a "standard" lens is very versatile and works well for lots of types of photography (see my review of the Olympus 25mm: ruclips.net/video/4qANiuIBUEc/видео.html). And FWIW, I think the 45mm lens would go great with your kit zoom :)
i have a question. i wanted to buy olympus 12-40 mm f2.8 but instead of that i am thinking of buying two prime lenses it will cost almost same. 45mm f1.8 and 12mm f2 what do you think?
+Matt Nz Depends on your preference. The primes will be smaller/lighter, and better in low light. But you have to switch lenses to change field of view. The zoom is a lot more flexible, and it's weather sealed. (Personally, I choose the primes, but both choices have benefits.)
Thank you so much for the review. I own a Panasonic GH3 and I have the Panny 14mm f/2.5, Nikkor 28mm f/2.8 ais & 50mm f/1.8 ai. I love my old manual nikkor's, but I think the Olympus 45mm is a must have. The colors look beautiful and documentary interviews with autofocus will come in very handy. Thanks again for the great review!
Thank you very much for your great review. By the way, what a beautiful cat you have.! I will have a look to this one, I think it will serve me well in very many scenarios. What about the Olympus M.Zuiko 25 mm f1.8? Do you know this one? Please, let me know. MERRY CHRISTMAS, many greetings from Germany. Alfredo
i can see there are 2 versions of the Olympus 45mm f1.8 : international version (Japanese) and US version. Is there any difference between them? cuz i could see that the international version is often cheaper. please give me some advices if u have time. thanks
There's no actual difference between the two versions, at least not in the lens itself. The difference is that, if you live in the US, you won't have a manufacturer's warranty with an imported lens. (If the savings are big, I'd still go for the international version.)
my camera a (gf7) does not have in body stabilisation. would this affect my picture quality to am extent that I shouldn't buy this lens? are there any out there which is within this price range and aperture that has ois?
Panasonic recently released their own version of this lens, a 42.5mm f/1.7 lens. It has stabilization in the lens. I used the Olympus lens on my Panasonic GF3 for a while and it worked great. Just watch the shutter speed doesn't get too low.
Awesome info. I'm getting into photography and didn't know much about lenses at all so this was the best video I've found so far. One question though. You mentioned that this would be the best second lens to get but what would be your recommendation for your first micro 4/3ds ?
Hello, I'm very new to trying out different lens for my olympus epl7 and was wondering if the 45mm lens would be better for product shots or 17mm lens?
+Alene B For product shots? IMO, the 17mm is too wide. I think you'd be better with the 45mm. Also consider the 25mm lens, which I reviewed (ruclips.net/video/4qANiuIBUEc/видео.html). It can focus very closely, which is very useful for product shots. It's the lens I used for most of these: www.flickr.com/photos/markryansallee/albums/72157651902583725
I heard a photographer tell me its not neccerially about the camera you use, but more so the lens is that the case? please elaborate. If so can i buy the cheapest Olympus digital camera and just buy this lens? would i still get those shots you got in your video?
Hi. Please help me with this: I have a 45mm 1.8 and I'm interested in the 75mm 1.8. Focal length aside, do you think the 75mm is worth it, or is just keeping the 45mm ok? Thanks
etmoem I dunno what you mean by "focal length aside," that's the main difference! The 75mm is a great lens, I'll probably review it next. I have one in my bag. It's pretty long, and for some people it's awkward to have a long lens that doesn't zoom out, but I've always had fun using it and it returns great results.
Michromatic Thanks. What I mean't was: a) I should have one only if I really need a 75mm lens, vs. b) I must have one just because it's one of the best lenses around. As you mentioned the 45mm is your favorite lens, I was curious about your opinion about the 75mm. Waiting for your review. Cheers.
Michromatic, thank you for your speedy reply on your other video! You do a fantastic job! Now that I have discovered this lens, I think that I'll be choosing the 45mm instead of the 25mm for my G7. Would you agree with this decision? Also, will the "autofocus" work on the Panasonic body?
+David Gatto Yes, autofocus and everything else will work with your G7 :) That said, you might consider the Panasonic 42.5mm f/1.7 lens, which is just like this one...but has stabilization. Your G7 would benefit from it. Both great lenses.
+Michromatic, this morning I purchased a Panasonic G7 with a 14-42mm and 45-150mm in a kit. I also added the 42.5mm. I can't thank you enough! I didn't know it existed until your response. I can't wait to shoot! Thank you again! Happy New Year!
Hi Michromatic, I'm going to buy the Oly 45 mm 1.8 lens to compliment my 12/35mkii on my GH5. However the oly is made in 3 countries, China, Japan and also Vietnam. Does the build and optical quality depend on where the lens was manufactured? Great review, cheers!
Michromatic I read a comment on an online retailer’s blog -he complained about receiving a lens from Vietnam rather than Japan, perhaps the issue was in his mind... thanks for yr reply. Cheers 🤠👍
This is a great little lens for the price especially. This and the 25mm 1.8 are a perfect match for portraits. The images they make have very similar looks. However if I can only have one or recommend a prime lens for someones first lens it would be the 17mm. Very fast AF very sharp and a great 35mm FF equivalent focal length. Which is good for scenic and groups and even portraits with some background. My most cherished Portrait lens is my very sharp 75mm 1.8. Fantastic for headshots or even full body length if shooting outdoors. But that really is kind of a special lens. The most do everything lens I have is the 12-40 f2.8. it is wide for scenic landscapes and at 40mm great for portraits.
The 17/1.8 is a great lens, but its results will be very different than this 45/1.8. The wider angle means that more of the image will be in focus, which isn't a bad thing, just different :) In terms of absolute quality -- if there is such a value -- I'd say the 17/1.8 is definitely on par with the 45/1.8.
+Michromatic thank you for answering! one more question, does it mean the 17 mm will produce less blurry background since more things will be in focus?
Correct, the 17/1.8 won't blur out the background as aggressively as the 45/1.8. You can still get blurry, out-of-focus backgrounds, but you need to be closer to your subject. Here's an album of photos I took with the 17/1.8 lens, to give you an idea: www.flickr.com/photos/markryansallee/albums/72157653361867842
Short answer: This is probably not the lens you want for taking star pictures. Long answer: For astrophotography, you generally want a wide-angle lens. The real limitation with astro is the length of your exposure (aka your shutter speed). Stars move, so if your exposure is long enough you'll start to see the stars become "trails" instead of dots. Here's an extreme example, with a 30-minute exposure: www.flickr.com/photos/markryansallee/28651551881/in/album-72157671687542206/ So you want as long an exposure as possible without getting star trails. (Unless you're trying to take a picture of star trails.) The trick is that star trails happen much sooner with longer lenses -- a 30-second exposure on a 45mm lens will show star trails, where that same 30-second exposure on a 12mm lens will probably NOT show star trails. The wider the lens (e.g. the shorter the focal length), the longer your exposure can be before the stars become trails.
OREOMILKYSHAKE Three cheap options. (1) Panasonic 14mm f/2.5. It's pretty wide, and decently fast. (2) Panasonic 20mm f/1.7. It's not as wide angle, which is a limit, but it's much faster at f/1.7. (3) Samyang/Rokinon 7.5mm f/3.5. It's SUPER wide angle, and while not as fast as the other lenses it makes up for it with the short focal length (meaning your exposures can be longer). Note that this lens is manual focus only -- which isn't so bad when taking pictures of the stars.
Got the Oly 25 1.8 for indoor and general purpose, now I'm definitely getting the 45 for outdoor and landscape. Nice review, by the way, it is unique in that you don't translate the specs into full frame terms. I kinda like that approach :)
The full frame translation is useful for people coming to M43 from full frame, but is otherwise unnecessary confusion IMO. I want my videos to be helpful for newbies too, and making sense of one focal length number is challenging enough :) Thanks for watching, you'll love the 45.
Your legacy 50 is going to b obsolete once u get this lens. This 45 is everything he says, plus more. Yes, the focal length is kind of different to work with in closer quarters such as the bar scenario, but u will adjust. I find that taking shots of even partial faces makes for awesome shots with this lens.
I love the 45mm but some might ask "compared to what?" and I suppose they'd have a point. I've not used a Canon or Nikkor 85mm to compare so all I can say is In my limited experience I find the 45mm pleasing. I bloody love it!
Thank you for this review. Looks like a great lens. How does this lens compare to the Panasonic 42.5mm F1.7 which many think is one of the best portrait lenses for m4/3? A couple of corrections please: 1. The 35mm equivalent focal length of an iPhone 5s is 29.7mm, basically call it 30mm. It is not 17mm as you stated in your review. 2. The Japanese word for blur is not pronounced Bo-Kay, it is pronounced Bo-Keh.
Thanks for review, your shots are really great, can't believe u made them with this 45mm, so I ordered one from Amazon:) Just a couple questions, what camera did u use with it, and what you think about Olympus ED 40-150mm 1:4.0-5.6 R lens?
I use two cameras, Olympus EP5 and Olympus EPM2. That 40-150mm lens is surprisingly good for the money -- I have one, but don't use it as much as I should. I tend to underestimate it because it's so cheap, but it gives me photos like this: www.flickr.com/photos/markryansallee/16281894697/
Alex Knyaz you should grab the 40-150. its the best bang for the buck. it'll give you a pretty long telephoto in a pretty small package comparing to the panasonic one. the image quality is good, the only downside maybe is the build quality.
Jason K thanks, mate. Already have, but I've got that idea, 'cause kit lens pretty crappy (Olympus14-42mm EZ), perhaps, I should try superzooms like, Olympus 14-150mm and Tamron 14-150mm, instead? Or better save the money and stay with kit and 40-150?
This lens cannot be used on an A6000. Something like this Sony 50/1.8 would be the closest equivalent I can find, but I don't have any experience with Sony lenses: amzn.to/2lrduYa
Great video. I like when you contrast the iPhone image with the lens image. My only criticism would be to edit in some space at the beginning as the voiceover is getting clipped depending on which device I am streaming it with.
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
Getting this lens plus a Panasonic 20mm f1.7 or Olympus 17mm/f1.8 is the most wonderful intro you can have to m43 or any camera system. Everything the reviewer says about the lens is true.
Your comparison between 17mm phone shot and 45mm is something no one has tried giving in a RUclips review. A lot of times I need to carry a 14mm on one camera to get the entire wide angle outdoors and this would be perfect to get closer shots on my second camera. Thanks.
I handled this in the shop when buying my OMD EM10 Mark II and I could not believe how small it was. It actually put me off! It shouldn't have done so I am going to watch your review to see whether I should get this or the 25/1.8 as a first prime lens. Good reviews by the way! I have subscribed just now. I like the landscapes with the longer focal length and the narrowed perspective. Nice cat too!
Great! Now I can finally take sharp pictures of my 4 Velociraptors! They were always so blurry :(
I feel like two is the limit -- once you get three or more, you become a crazy old velociraptor lady/man.
My favourite lens is the Olympus 17mm f1.8, nothing comes close to that. I bought the 45mm f1.8 at the same time to provide a set but never used it; well I dont take portraits, hate bokeh, hate shallow depth of field. So the 45mm just gathered dust in my drawer. Then late summer I took it to the zoo just to see what it was like. OMG this little lens totally blew me away, it was so sharp and contrasty with stunning colour. At 90mm it gets in close and with a x2 zoom it closes in on any zoo animal. More importantly to me the depth of field is huge so I also get the habitat as well. No way could I take zoo animals like this with a DSLR. And in use it looks like I am holding a compact and I have occasionally used it x4 to get shots that nobody with a DSLR and 300mm prime was getting by holding teh camera in strange places using teh tilt screen. This lens has become my nature lens of choice, all it needed was to find its niche; it has completely replaced my 14-140mm ;-)
yes its a great lens....i am wondering why you start talking about wide angle, its not marketed as a wide angle and its a long way from a wide angle as everyone knows...on olympus you need at a minumim 12mm to get 24 which is considered where wide angle photography starts.
The pana leica 15mm 1.7 is much better
Many thanks for the Interesting review, the lens is equivalent to 90 mm in Normal Film lenses, which is Ideal for Portraits and could also be used as standard lens, as used in the original Rolleiflex and Haselblad film cameras.
My question is how is this lens performing in Video Shooting, please respond.
I have it and it's great!...And absolutely silent! 👍 This lens is a gem and a bargain.
Totally agree, the lens is surprisingly small in size and very sharp even wide open on both omd-em1 and em10.
I couldn't agree with you more - the 45mm f/1.8 is sublime - and especially at it's meager price point - SUCH a great lens! Great job on the review!
The 45mm is my second favorite lens, as the Pan-Leica 25mm 1.4 is my first due to it's wider focal length. As a micro 4/3rds system user and advocate, it's refreshing to stumble upon a reviewer who doesn't feel compelled to needlessly convert focal lengths and apertures to it's 35mm "full-frame" equivalences. Once more reviewers do away with such conversions, people unfamiliar with the system (and those who criticize it) can have a greater understanding and appreciation of the strengths and benefits of m43rds. Thank you and looking forward to more reviews in the future.
Thanks for watching :) IMO, the "35mm equivalent" talk is useful for folks that use those cameras (and KNOW how to use them), but for folks used to shooting photos with point-and-shoots, iPhones, or even entry-level DSLRs, it doesn't mean anything and just confuses the point.
In fact, I'd probably avoid mentioning focal length at all if we had a better way to describe field of view and identifying specific lenses. But for now, FOV is still "measured" in focal length, and lenses are identified by it. I wish we, as photographers, gravitated toward an "angle of view" measurement to identify lenses. "It's not a 25mm lens, it's a 47-degree lens."
Michromatic I think the conversion to 35mm equivalent is still helpful: while I know what is the crop factor for a micro 4/3, I don't know what sensor the iPhone has, so I can't quite place that 17mm...
***** Yup, Olympus do put in on the box. Bought it a few days ago, checked the box. Gotta agree that people should be aware of that all lenses use the 35mm format as a standard, so they don't get all surprised when they see the difference between a 50mm on a m43 and 50mm on a full-frame.
It is easy for the conversion between four thirds and full frame though because it is half. So this 45mm is equivalent to 90mm on a full frame correct?
I don't mind hearing the equivalent when four thirds is just halfing the full frame focal length. Sorry if im wrong about this, i have an EM-5 and it's my first camera. I have the 25mm, 45mm and 12mm and they are great lenses. If I was to suggest two lenses to start with it would be the 12mm and the 45mm. 25mm is the most practical but the least exciting in my opinion..
Michromatic
That's a fair point, but it would disguise [for those who'd have any conception of it] the relative DoF characteristics which remain [more or less] constant according to focal length+aperture and bear no relation to AoV. I too am a fan of good subject isolation - which means fast primes are a bit of a must for the m43 format, at least at non-telephoto lengths. I do find it a little odd though that you don't seem to factor in any consideration of Panasonic lenses. Like one of your other viewers my personal favourite is the PanLeica 25/1.4 which is very good for limiting DoF for body/group shots and that additional 1/3 counts.
Possibly if I could afford it my affections might be transferred to the PanLeica 42.5/1.2 - arguably the 'best' native m43 lens currently available. I do have the Oly 45 though and if you were to say it's probably the best 'bang for buck' for the format I would be hard pressed to argue.
The legacy OM 50/1.8s have a completely different 'look' to the newer lenses. Perhaps a bit fiddly as a workaday optic, but copies plus an adapter can be had so cheaply there's little reason not to own and play with one in addition to the 45.
Just recently discovered your channel, and I really like it! It's pleasant and informative. Great work!
I own this lens and use it quite a bit. It's the real deal. It's razor sharp, and when I attach my MCON-P01 macro converter on it, it's unbelievable for those kinds of shots. Not a true macro lens in the case (like the Oly 60mm f2.8), but it's awfully good.
That said, I also have the Panasonic Leica Summilux 25mm f1.4, and it's spectacular as well. I especially enjoy shooting cityscapes at night with that one. If you shoot Micro 4/3, you really need something close to both of those focal lengths in your kit. They complement each other well for different purposes.
But if I had to choose only one to keep, it would be the 45mm only because it provides that nice bokeh at an appropriate focal length for portraiture...and it can shoot well at night too if you adjust to the focal length.
Daniel Dougan I myself use Olympus 40-150 F4-5.6 with a set of Fujimi macro filters to do macro. Works well.
Very good review! You style is excellent. I've already decided on the 45mm, but you somehow managed to amp that to the dead-sure-decided levels. Especially how you covered the landscape aspects, of which i'm highly interested additionally.
Yes, i do understand it's great for portraits etc. But when so much of it, SO much of it is about portraits, flowers, bokeh craze, with shaky artsy footage... Well, i'm thankful that you're around :)
Happy shooting everybody!
Hello, excellent review! Thanks for doing that. Could you please share with me what type of camera and lens you used to shoot this video with? I have seen a ton of RUclips videos, and I publish many myself, and I have never seen 720p look this sharp. Could you please also tell me what compression settings you are using?
Thanks!
Great lens. I love that with mirrorless I can slap a ND filter on in the bright sun and shoot them wide open without affected the view through the EVF. Big advantage.
Is the body of your lens metal? I purchased the international version black and its plastic...
Naw, it's plastic. My silver lens shows a few scuffs on its barrel.
Had this lens in the past, sold it when I sold the E-M10 kit, got a D800, and sold that to get the E-M1 + 12-40 2.8. Getting this for portraits, it's sublime.
subscribed! really like your posts. well balanced channel, well presented information, tone, speed, eloquence, etc. good job and wish you success. thanks for the work you do.
Hello, i'm about to buy a OMD 10 or the EM 10MARK II, the thing is that , the second one has both mechanical and electronic shutter, while the first one has only the mechanical. i'm wondering if this is an importing reason the choose the EM10 over the EM10MARK II? caus i shoot with big apertures and i hate that overexposure result..Second question: i've been ofered the kit 14-42 EZ and the 14-42 II R , which one u think is better? thank you very much and i'm waiting for your answer!! hope u help me :)
Hey man, love your channel! I know you'd recommend the 25 1.8 as a first prime, but at the moment it costs twice as much as the 45mm (in Europe), so I'm kinda leaning towards buying the latter. I'm mostly outdoors, so do you think the 9mm fisheye and the kit zoom I already have combined with the 45 would be a good set up, or should I just save some more and get the 25?
Matthias Deckx It sounds like you've got the wide angle covered -- go for the 45mm :)
Michromatic Thanks!
I'm unhealthily hyped for this lens at this point. Got one for 130€ used in good nick, but it hasn't arrived yet.
Looks pretty good. But I can't believe it's a patch on my LUMIX nocticron 42.5mm f1.2
(Admittedly the noccy is very ££)
What's your thoughts on the Olympus 12mm f2?
While looking on on the screen of my camera by a sonny day, I can not determine if I'm going to take a nice photo, an underexpose photo or a blurry photo. Without a view finder, does it has any way to take nice photos in manual mode?
I just got this lens yesterday to compliment my Olympus 17mm f1.8. Never been happier!
Those are my two main lenses too--I'm just getting a micro four thirds set-up going. I wonder if I would have been happier with the 'Leica' 25mm f1.4 over the Olympus 17mm f1.8. Dunno. Maybe I'll have to pick up the 25mm also, haha. But I'm also super tempted by some of the really nice Olympus glass: the 12mm, 75mm, and 12-40mm Pro zoom.
Tzadeck I had the Olympus 25mm before. While it's a sharp lens, I didn't quite get used to the 50mm equivalent FOV which made me decide to sell it. The 17mm + 45mm works really well for me.
Hmm, I see. I do think a 50mm equivalent would be good to have when hanging out with friends. Since it's a little longer and the Panasonic Leica lens is f1.4, I figure I could get a bit of bokeh pretty easily if I wanted to take a shot of a few friends. The 17mm is too short a focal length to easily blur the background, and the 45mm's focal length is long enough that you have to be super far away to take a picture of more than one person.
That and the Panny 25mm is supposed to be super sharp--I can be a bit of a pixel peeper.
Is there a way to turn off the stupid variable focus speed for manual focusing? It makes shooting video almost impossible if your subject distance changes.
is this lens compatible with E-510 Evolt? It looks pretty small and you mentioned micro 4/3 so I guess it's smaller.
can you shot like short little travel videos with this lens? kinda cant afford two lenses and the camera but i really want to blurry background thing
Since this is not your recommendation for a first micro 4/3 lens.. I'm curious what that recommendation would be?
+Michelle N My picks for best first lens: (1) Olympus 25mm f/1.8. (2) Panasonic 25mm f/1.7. (3) Panasonic 20mm f/1.7. Any one of those will do!
ruclips.net/video/4qANiuIBUEc/видео.html
which lens has better Quality the 45mm or the 25mm micro four thirds from olympus?
i have the pana 25mm 1.7 and am very happy with it. want to get the 45mm + a wide angle to have a simple prime set to use for photos + videos on the GH5
I've um-ed and ah-ed over whether to go for the Olympus 25mm f/1.8 or the Panasonic 25mm f1/7. Went as far as actually ordering the Panasonic from Amazon but have cancelled and have gone with the Olympus. Price wasn't an issue for me and from comparing pics I've seen taken with both, for some reason I preferred the Olympus. Both seem to be rated so highly so it was a REALLY hard decision.
what do you think about getting this lens and a panasonic 20mm f/1.7 for $375? They're both in great condition and i believe the 45mm comes with a uv filter.. I already have a panasonic 25mm 1.7 but it seems like too good of a deal to pass up lol.. let me know
Awesome video.. I am using G85 body do I need a adapter to connect the lens? Do you recommend this lens for fashion photography??
On apsc my favourite focal length is 50mm. So I understand why you love it. I find it fantastic for framing.
Nunez87 The funny thing is, I had a Canon Rebel with the Canon 50mm before I got into Micro 4/3, but I didn't use it as much as I should have -- I didn't realize how much I liked the focal length because I got it in my head that it was for portraits, not everyday use. I was wrong.
Michromatic Isn't the 45mm micro 4/3 format equivalent to a 90mm on Canon/Nikon? So the nifty 50mm on a Canon you were referring to would be closer to the 25mm lens on an Olympus.
DmaaaaaxC If comparing the field of view to a full-frame (or 35mm film) camera, yes, the 45mm lens on a Micro 4/3 camera will give the same field of view as a 90mm lens on the other system. The 25mm Olympus I reviewed has the same field of view as a 50mm lens on full-frame cameras.
(If you took that same 50mm lens and adapted it to work on an Olympus camera, it would have the field of view of a 100mm lens on a full-frame camera.)
I decide to skip 14-42 3.5 Pancake (kit lense) and just add extra money for the 45mm 1.8 - also i wonder what is the best and wider lense for general daily use, 20mm/25mm or 17mm? and if 25 or 20mm they which, Olympus or Panasonic? I will be using with E-M10 Mark III.
Here's another 25mm or 45mm question. Should I still get the 45mm if I already have a legacy OM 50mm 1.8? Or would it be too similar (regarding focal length) that I should just go for the 25mm? Or perhaps the benefits of autofocus and native mount is already worth it for getting the 45mm and just toss out my old 50mm?
Personally, yes, I would still get the 45mm.
I have the 45mm and an old, manual 38mm lens. Focal lengths are pretty similar and I find myself using the lenses for roughly the same framing. BUT the 45mm has autofocus and generally has better optics -- it's sharper wide open, and doesn't flare -- so it's definitely the more useful lens.
I still use my 38mm lens when I don't need autofocus because I love its character, but it doesn't fully replace the 45mm.
Toss out the old OM 50mm f1.8 and get this 45mm f1.8. I used the OM 50mm. And got rid of it after seeing and comparing results with this little silver 45mm here. Which is sharper, And a beautiful little lens to handle
Kingsley Pedlar I hate you both. Ugghhh now it's in my cart...
Thank you for this video I'm just a newbie here. Planning to buy Olympus Omd em5 mark ii. Im into self-photography. What do you think? I guess this lens is truly the best one! 😍
Will this Olympus lens in the review autofocus with a Panasonic Lumix GX1? Or does using Olympus lens on Panys make them manual only?
Hi ! I am very new to photography and following your videos to learn more. I have an Olympus E-M10 with 14-42mm EZ lens. I came across this Olympus 3CON-P01 lens conversion kit. As a newbie and with a restricted budget, I was thinking to buy the conversion kit rather than buy different lenses. What do you think of the conversion kit?
I am not much into sports and wildlife photography. More of a traveller who likes taking potrait and landscape shots. Is it good enough to start off with?
I'm not familiar with that convertor. I do have an MCON P02 macro convertor and it works pretty well. I don't do a lot of macro, so for me it made sense to get a convertor rather than spend more for a full-on macro lens. If I planned to do a lot of macro, however, it would be worth paying extra.
Excellent, clear video. I have hust ordered this lens for my Panasonic G6, can't wait to try it out!
I have a Zuiko 25mm for portrait photos I take and I'm very happy with it, however Im looking for something to use outdoors, body shots, kids playing in the park ....
What do you recommend?
Thank you,
This 45/1.8 is a great choice.
Hello! I'm looking for a tird MFT lens to add to my repetoire. currently I have a 12-42 mm and a 40-150 mm lens. Im' hesitating between this lens or the 12-50. What i'm looking for is is sharpness, nice portret, and good evening shots. Wich one of hte two would you recommend? love the review, i've subscribed
+FunThemePark Based on what you've said, the 45mm is a no-brainer over the 12-50. The 12-50 doesn't do anything that your other lenses don't already do (except macro). The 45mm will give you much better low-light performance and bokeh.
Great,great,great review! Thanks a lot! You mix foto-and vid-examples in way that makes all so interesting. What camera did you use for the fotos? I have know the e-p5 and I'll get this lens this week. Thanks again for this great vid and best wishes from Switzerland!
ai siju Thanks! I use two cameras, (1) an EP5 like yours, and (2) an EPM2.
Hi, great review... Im an amateur in this... I have a quick question, If I use this lens on a Panasonic GH3, will it be impossible to use the auto-focus ??
Cesar Flores Yes, this lens will work 100% with your GH3, autofocus included.
Do note that this lens, like all Olympus lenses, does not have stabilization built in. At 45mm, I don't think stabilization is a must except in low light. You might, however, look at Panasonic's new 42.5mm f/1.7 lens. Very similar focal length to this lens, AND it has stabilization. It's a newer lens and may cost a bit more because of it.
Personally, I don't think you can go wrong with either lens. Just something to keep in mind.
Michromatic Gee thanks... definitely will check them both out. Keep up the good work man, already subscribed to your channel... Greetings all the way from Mexico !
Cesar Flores De nada, amigo.
Hi! first thing. I love your channel!
I own a G7 with 14-42 and 45-150.
I was thinking of buying a fast prime for better low light and to have better background blur (I also value sharpness a lot). However I cannot afford many or too expensive lenses. I was thinking about panasonic 20mm 1.7 or sigma 30mm 1.4. Do you think that 30mm would be to thight (fov) for an allround lens?
Jan Garcia maybe oly 25mm 1.8 is for you. I would recommend it. Not too tele, not too wide.. Its "normal focal length"
Great video. However, this is the 45mm for micro 4/3, so this is actually a 90mm in full frame size, right? Coming from Canon camera, I could not understand why you were talking about headshots only with a 45mm. This is a bit confusing.
This 45mm lens on Micro 4/3 will give the same field of view as a 90mm lens on a full frame camera.
Thanks for the great review. I am thinking of getting this for my pen epl2. Either that or I just get a new omd em10 and use the kit lens. I mostly want to take better portraits. Any thoughts on what would be the better choice?
Hm, tough choice. The 45/1.8 lens will be a nice step up from the kit lens for portraits. I think it'll make the biggest difference. That said, the EM10 is a great bargain camera and a worthwhile upgrade from the EPL2.
@Michromatic Excellent review video and what a beautiful cat :) one question : how does this lens hold up for video ? (could you explain) I just bought a gh4 and I am brand new in the field of photography and videography , I want to use a lens for making my own youtube video's . thanks for any advice on the matter.
+Dave Clark It's as good as any for video, will really depend on the framing you're looking for. Though as you've got the GH4, I suggest checking out the Panasonic version of this lens -- the 42.5mm f/1.7. The Panasonic lens has stabilization, which you'll definitely want if shooting video at this focal length.
You're reviews are very pleasant and refreshing to watch. I'm wondering if you could make a review for the 12mm f2 and the 17mm 1.8? I already own all 3 of these lenses but would enjoy hearing your thoughts on them.
LocoLynx I'll probably review the 12mm eventually. To be honest, I had a hard time using a lens that wide, but I think I'm getting better. As for the 17mm, I actually just sold it -- great little lens, but I wanted to pick up a Ricoh GR and I couldn't justify having both the Ricoh and a 17mm.
But with MFT it equals to 90mm. So, the comparison with iPhone is not 17mm va 45mm, but rather 17mm vs 90mm. Right?
It's confusing, but short answer is: no, not quite.
The iPhone doesn't actually have a 17mm lens -- it's actually less than 5mm. But the field of view you get is roughly equivalent to a 34mm full-frame camera. I divided the number in half to get a number equivalent to Micro 4/3.
A bunch of crop factor nonsense. iPhone gives a wide angle of view. This Olympus lens gives a narrower angle of view. That's what matters.
Ah so you used an MFT equivalent FOV for the iPhone focal length to compare with the Olympus. Got it. Would be more common to use full frame equivalent, though.
The shot of the Raven was incredible!
Hi,
I'm new to photography recenty purchased omd m10+14-42 pancake+40-150, i'm looking for a prime mostly shooting holiday photos in a city usualy, , friends and family, I'm strugling to diside between the 45 and 25 mm. which should i go for?
Thanks!
+Theo Your zooms cover all the common ranges, so I think you're free to make an exciting decision rather than a practical one :) I'd recommend the 45mm.
+Michromatic Thanks!
how far away physically from a person shooting a head and shoulders portrait approximately would you need to stand to frame their head and shoulders shooting at this focal length with micro four thirds? thank you
+justinspirational For just head + shoulder, I'd say about 6-7 feet back from the subject.
+Michromatic thanks!
Hello! I'm new on photography and I've just bought an Olympus OM-D E-M10 with the M. Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm f/3,5-5,6 EZ. At the end of the video you say that the 45mm f/1.8 is a great complement for a standard, wide angle normal lens. What is it in terms of lens specifications a mode standard lens? Thank you or whoever will answer my question :).
+Natalia Alonso Movilla You already have everything you need to get started. The next lens you should consider is the 40-150 to give you a total range of 14-150. What f1.8 gives you that the zooms don't is a more out of focus background. I doubt you'll see the extra sharpness in anything smaller than an 11x14 print.
+Natalia Alonso Movilla "Standard" is a common description for a lens that gives roughly a 47-degree field of view. In Micro 4/3 terms, that's a 25mm lens (on a full frame camera, it's 50mm). The field of view through a "standard" lens is very versatile and works well for lots of types of photography (see my review of the Olympus 25mm: ruclips.net/video/4qANiuIBUEc/видео.html).
And FWIW, I think the 45mm lens would go great with your kit zoom :)
Nice presentation. I have this lens for my Olympus E-PL1 and EP2. After watching your demo, am liking my 45mm all the more. Thx.
Hey, how would you compare this to the 25mm f1.8? I'm a canon user but olympus is so wonderful to carry around!
Very different focal lengths, I love both lenses. The 25mm will give you a wider field of view that's easier to shoot in more situations.
i have a question. i wanted to buy olympus 12-40 mm f2.8
but instead of that i am thinking of buying two prime lenses it will cost almost same.
45mm f1.8 and 12mm f2
what do you think?
+Matt Nz Depends on your preference. The primes will be smaller/lighter, and better in low light. But you have to switch lenses to change field of view. The zoom is a lot more flexible, and it's weather sealed. (Personally, I choose the primes, but both choices have benefits.)
Thanks
Thank you so much for the review. I own a Panasonic GH3 and I have the Panny 14mm f/2.5, Nikkor 28mm f/2.8 ais & 50mm f/1.8 ai. I love my old manual nikkor's, but I think the Olympus 45mm is a must have. The colors look beautiful and documentary interviews with autofocus will come in very handy. Thanks again for the great review!
Thank you very much for your great review. By the way, what a beautiful cat you have.! I will have a look to this one, I think it will serve me well in very many scenarios. What about the Olympus M.Zuiko 25 mm f1.8? Do you know this one? Please, let me know. MERRY CHRISTMAS, many greetings from Germany. Alfredo
i can see there are 2 versions of the Olympus 45mm f1.8 : international version (Japanese) and US version. Is there any difference between them? cuz i could see that the international version is often cheaper. please give me some advices if u have time. thanks
There's no actual difference between the two versions, at least not in the lens itself. The difference is that, if you live in the US, you won't have a manufacturer's warranty with an imported lens. (If the savings are big, I'd still go for the international version.)
thank you very much
my camera a (gf7) does not have in body stabilisation. would this affect my picture quality to am extent that I shouldn't buy this lens? are there any out there which is within this price range and aperture that has ois?
Panasonic recently released their own version of this lens, a 42.5mm f/1.7 lens. It has stabilization in the lens. I used the Olympus lens on my Panasonic GF3 for a while and it worked great. Just watch the shutter speed doesn't get too low.
+Michromatic Thanks so much for replying. Right now I'm also interested in the 25mm 1.8 from olympus haha
I'm thinking of getting OMD EM-5 Mark II, which lenses do you think I should get? First time using a Micro four thirds.
which do you recommend as first and only lens?
+LostInNeverland Olympus 25mm is my pick for "best first lens," find out more about it here: ruclips.net/video/4qANiuIBUEc/видео.html
Awesome info. I'm getting into photography and didn't know much about lenses at all so this was the best video I've found so far. One question though. You mentioned that this would be the best second lens to get but what would be your recommendation for your first micro 4/3ds ?
+Sara Either of these two lenses are my picks for the best first lens: ruclips.net/video/6YDTtybxp_Y/видео.html
This lens is my baby, I love it! I remember watching this video before buying the lens, I'm so glad did.
Hello, I'm very new to trying out different lens for my olympus epl7 and was wondering if the 45mm lens would be better for product shots or 17mm lens?
+Alene B For product shots? IMO, the 17mm is too wide. I think you'd be better with the 45mm.
Also consider the 25mm lens, which I reviewed (ruclips.net/video/4qANiuIBUEc/видео.html). It can focus very closely, which is very useful for product shots. It's the lens I used for most of these: www.flickr.com/photos/markryansallee/albums/72157651902583725
When this lens focuses, does the front thread rotate? I want to get this lens and mount an anamorphic adaptor to it.
No, the front threads do not rotate. (FWIW, I don't think I've ever used a camera lens where the front threads rotated.)
Much appreciated, thanks.
I heard a photographer tell me its not neccerially about the camera you use, but more so the lens is that the case? please elaborate. If so can i buy the cheapest Olympus digital camera and just buy this lens? would i still get those shots you got in your video?
That's a bit simplistic a view, but it's got some merit. The lens makes a bigger difference generally.
Hi. Please help me with this: I have a 45mm 1.8 and I'm interested in the 75mm 1.8. Focal length aside, do you think the 75mm is worth it, or is just keeping the 45mm ok? Thanks
etmoem I dunno what you mean by "focal length aside," that's the main difference! The 75mm is a great lens, I'll probably review it next. I have one in my bag. It's pretty long, and for some people it's awkward to have a long lens that doesn't zoom out, but I've always had fun using it and it returns great results.
Michromatic Thanks. What I mean't was: a) I should have one only if I really need a 75mm lens, vs. b) I must have one just because it's one of the best lenses around.
As you mentioned the 45mm is your favorite lens, I was curious about your opinion about the 75mm.
Waiting for your review. Cheers.
etmoem Both lenses are great, if I could have only one it'd be the 45mm just because the focal length is more versatile.
Hi could u tell me how it is in low light?
Michromatic, thank you for your speedy reply on your other video! You do a fantastic job! Now that I have discovered this lens, I think that I'll be choosing the 45mm instead of the 25mm for my G7. Would you agree with this decision? Also, will the "autofocus" work on the Panasonic body?
+David Gatto Yes, autofocus and everything else will work with your G7 :) That said, you might consider the Panasonic 42.5mm f/1.7 lens, which is just like this one...but has stabilization. Your G7 would benefit from it. Both great lenses.
+Michromatic, this morning I purchased a Panasonic G7 with a 14-42mm and 45-150mm in a kit. I also added the 42.5mm. I can't thank you enough! I didn't know it existed until your response. I can't wait to shoot! Thank you again! Happy New Year!
This raven photo on 1:30 is stunning. Can I get it somewhere?
+Daniel Leonov Boom: www.flickr.com/photos/markryansallee/12889047113/in/album-72157653359055232/
Michromatic Wow, thank you!
Hi Michromatic, I'm going to buy the Oly 45 mm 1.8 lens to compliment my 12/35mkii on my GH5. However the oly is made in 3 countries, China, Japan and also Vietnam. Does the build and optical quality depend on where the lens was manufactured? Great review, cheers!
Not that I've heard, but I haven't looked into it. I believe mine was manufactured in China.
Michromatic I read a comment on an online retailer’s blog -he complained about receiving a lens from Vietnam rather than Japan, perhaps the issue was in his mind... thanks for yr reply. Cheers 🤠👍
This is a great little lens for the price especially. This and the 25mm 1.8 are a perfect match for portraits. The images they make have very similar looks. However if I can only have one or recommend a prime lens for someones first lens it would be the 17mm. Very fast AF very sharp and a great 35mm FF equivalent focal length. Which is good for scenic and groups and even portraits with some background. My most cherished Portrait lens is my very sharp 75mm 1.8. Fantastic for headshots or even full body length if shooting outdoors. But that really is kind of a special lens. The most do everything lens I have is the 12-40 f2.8. it is wide for scenic landscapes and at 40mm great for portraits.
This great lens works fine on Panasonic Lumix camera too?
would you recommend the 17 mm f1.8 if one would like to get similar results with this lens but with wider angle?
The 17/1.8 is a great lens, but its results will be very different than this 45/1.8. The wider angle means that more of the image will be in focus, which isn't a bad thing, just different :) In terms of absolute quality -- if there is such a value -- I'd say the 17/1.8 is definitely on par with the 45/1.8.
+Michromatic thank you for answering! one more question, does it mean the 17 mm will produce less blurry background since more things will be in focus?
Correct, the 17/1.8 won't blur out the background as aggressively as the 45/1.8. You can still get blurry, out-of-focus backgrounds, but you need to be closer to your subject. Here's an album of photos I took with the 17/1.8 lens, to give you an idea: www.flickr.com/photos/markryansallee/albums/72157653361867842
Michromatic thank you! I can definitely see the difference from the lovely photos in your album.. seems like the 17 mm will be a better suit for me 😄
I just copped this lense for $176 on ebay during a bid. OMG! I'm so excited to try it out!
Is this lense good enough to take good quality timelapse of galaxy/stars...(im new to photography no idea about the difference between lense)
Short answer: This is probably not the lens you want for taking star pictures.
Long answer: For astrophotography, you generally want a wide-angle lens.
The real limitation with astro is the length of your exposure (aka your shutter speed). Stars move, so if your exposure is long enough you'll start to see the stars become "trails" instead of dots. Here's an extreme example, with a 30-minute exposure: www.flickr.com/photos/markryansallee/28651551881/in/album-72157671687542206/
So you want as long an exposure as possible without getting star trails. (Unless you're trying to take a picture of star trails.)
The trick is that star trails happen much sooner with longer lenses -- a 30-second exposure on a 45mm lens will show star trails, where that same 30-second exposure on a 12mm lens will probably NOT show star trails. The wider the lens (e.g. the shorter the focal length), the longer your exposure can be before the stars become trails.
Michromatic is there any cheap wide lense than can take star photo? I have omd 10 II
OREOMILKYSHAKE Three cheap options.
(1) Panasonic 14mm f/2.5. It's pretty wide, and decently fast.
(2) Panasonic 20mm f/1.7. It's not as wide angle, which is a limit, but it's much faster at f/1.7.
(3) Samyang/Rokinon 7.5mm f/3.5. It's SUPER wide angle, and while not as fast as the other lenses it makes up for it with the short focal length (meaning your exposures can be longer). Note that this lens is manual focus only -- which isn't so bad when taking pictures of the stars.
Got the Oly 25 1.8 for indoor and general purpose, now I'm definitely getting the 45 for outdoor and landscape. Nice review, by the way, it is unique in that you don't translate the specs into full frame terms. I kinda like that approach :)
The full frame translation is useful for people coming to M43 from full frame, but is otherwise unnecessary confusion IMO. I want my videos to be helpful for newbies too, and making sense of one focal length number is challenging enough :) Thanks for watching, you'll love the 45.
Thanks for your review. I finally bought this incredibly lens 2. hand for less then 200$ and it is amazing...
"And you want a body shot at the bar, don't you"
Hahaha
should I get the 45 and 60 macro, the 17 and 60 macro or just the 60 macro?
+Callum Chisholm I, uh, assume you want to shoot macro? Personally, the 17 and the 45 make a great combo...but I don't shoot macro.
Your legacy 50 is going to b obsolete once u get this lens. This 45 is everything he says, plus more. Yes, the focal length is kind of different to work with in closer quarters such as the bar scenario, but u will adjust. I find that taking shots of even partial faces makes for awesome shots with this lens.
I love the 45mm but some might ask "compared to what?" and I suppose they'd have a point.
I've not used a Canon or Nikkor 85mm to compare so all I can say is In my limited experience I find the 45mm pleasing. I bloody love it!
Olympus have always made fabulous quality glass, and their latest range seem to be up with the best!
I can't even begin to describe how helpful this was. Thank you!
what camera were you using to shoot this video? love the lighting too by the way!
+Landscaping With Zach Video is shot on Olympus E-P5 + Olympus 25/1.8 lens.
i like this lens alot too. I use it alot for portrait shooting and concert photography.
How does it change to focus on this lens? Auto focus works on panasonic gh4?
Thanks :-)
Can you review the Olympus M Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 Pro?
Enrique Santos I'd like to! But I haven't used the lens yet.
Enrique Santos I have one and it's just incredible. Check Darren Miles channel. He tested it.
Thanks for this video. I was thinking about buying this lens and this video finally made me to buy the lens. Good video!
I wish you had told us which camera you've used this with. Olympus and Panasonic cameras have different characteristics.
+loadofcobblers Glass is Glass
+Nathaniel Westveer oly has body stabilisation pana not
Thank you for this review. Looks like a great lens.
How does this lens compare to the Panasonic 42.5mm F1.7 which many think is one of the best portrait lenses for m4/3?
A couple of corrections please:
1. The 35mm equivalent focal length of an iPhone 5s is 29.7mm, basically call it 30mm. It is not 17mm as you stated in your review.
2. The Japanese word for blur is not pronounced Bo-Kay, it is pronounced Bo-Keh.
what bothers me with your review is the panning around in the fotos, dont do that when reviewing a lens, how am i supposed to judge the field of view?
Here's an album of photos shot with the lens: www.flickr.com/photos/markryansallee/albums/72157653359055232
I bought this lens because of you bro! thank you.
What other lenses that you have for your micro four third camera?
you said you have around 4 of them
+Neo BaJaafar I have too many :) The Olympus 25/1.8 is probably my next most used.
Why do I have to stand so far away from my subject with this lens? Can I change that?
It's a moderately long focal length, without the ability to zoom out. You can stay close to your subject if you want a photo of half their head :p
Thanks for review, your shots are really great, can't believe u made them with this 45mm, so I ordered one from Amazon:) Just a couple questions, what camera did u use with it, and what you think about Olympus ED 40-150mm 1:4.0-5.6 R lens?
I use two cameras, Olympus EP5 and Olympus EPM2.
That 40-150mm lens is surprisingly good for the money -- I have one, but don't use it as much as I should. I tend to underestimate it because it's so cheap, but it gives me photos like this: www.flickr.com/photos/markryansallee/16281894697/
These photos are superb, thanks again I had my doubts about these lens, 'cause I've read many mixed reviews, but now, I guess I'll give it a shot)
By the way, have you tried to compare Olympus 40-150mm with Panasonic Lumix G Vario HD 45-150?
Alex Knyaz you should grab the 40-150. its the best bang for the buck. it'll give you a pretty long telephoto in a pretty small package comparing to the panasonic one. the image quality is good, the only downside maybe is the build quality.
Jason K thanks, mate. Already have, but I've got that idea, 'cause kit lens pretty crappy (Olympus14-42mm EZ), perhaps, I should try superzooms like, Olympus 14-150mm and Tamron 14-150mm, instead? Or better save the money and stay with kit and 40-150?
No way, the 12mm F2 is FLAWLESS... gorgeous clarity and color!
I've just found your channel and your videos are so helpful for a beginner like myself so thank you so much! 😊
can this work with the samsung mirrorless camera ? nx300
im new to this
No :( Samsung has their own lens mount that is not compatible with Micro 4/3 lenses like this.
Michromatic :'( damn ok
Can it be used on a Sony A6000? If not, does Sony have a similar lens?
This lens cannot be used on an A6000. Something like this Sony 50/1.8 would be the closest equivalent I can find, but I don't have any experience with Sony lenses: amzn.to/2lrduYa
should i get this or the 25mm 1.8?
Great video. I like when you contrast the iPhone image with the lens image. My only criticism would be to edit in some space at the beginning as the voiceover is getting clipped depending on which device I am streaming it with.
would you recommend it for blogging? thank u
Which one should be the first please??