Olympus OMD EM5MII
Dec 19, 2015 23:27:48 #
laf
Loc: Nordland
E M5MII, is high on my list for replacement of too heavy DSLR.
So tell me how you find the em5/2: Handling and ergo, IQ, lens quality and price and lastly reliability and dealing with Olympus.
Please save Panasonic/Fuji comments.
So tell me how you find the em5/2: Handling and ergo, IQ, lens quality and price and lastly reliability and dealing with Olympus.
Please save Panasonic/Fuji comments.
Dec 19, 2015 23:52:36 #
I use an EM-1, if you have largish hands, the EM-5 may feel a bit too small - I used to have version 1. Lenses are top notch, picture quality IS fantastic. Non of my Oly cameras needed any service. The HI REZ mode on the EM5II provides a 63MP raw file or a 40MP JPEG. Image stabilization on it is the best available (now with the new firmware the EM-1 has it as well) What do you normally shoot?
Dec 19, 2015 23:55:10 #
cant speak specifically to the II but I got my Omd E5 when it first came out and LOVE IT. Shamefully, I set it to all manual settings and then put down the manual. The menu is huge and deep and there is so much to learn, but I'm thrilled with using it like my good old Vivitar SLR. Set the ISO, set shutter, set the aperture and shoot. OK OK I will adjust the white balance...but really that is about it. It was pricey no doubt and the two lenses I started with were also pricey 12-35 panny and 75-300 Oly. I ultimately picked up the 35-100Panny, and am in the market for a new lens. might take a few outings to adjust to the size especially if you have big hands like bears...but once you do, I doubt you will ever go to grab your biggy. I never had to deal with Olympus so I can hardly talk about that. But I did go to a photography exhibit in NYC, where Olympus had a big set up. Got my sensor cleaned for free. I made my purchase at B&H NYC so I was able to handle everything before making my purchase. I don't think you will be disappointed.
Dec 20, 2015 00:48:56 #
laf wrote:
Please save Panasonic/Fuji comments.
Will do you a disservice and save Sony comments.
Dec 20, 2015 02:28:19 #
Dec 20, 2015 04:40:23 #
laf wrote:
Please I love my rx100
Enough to consider any of Sony's 11-12 current MILC's, including the a6000?
Dec 20, 2015 06:13:16 #
sueyeisert
Loc: New Jersey
One of the reasons I switched from Olympus to Fuji was repair. I won't repeat the sequence of events. I sent the camera to Texas for repair (I'm in NJ) from Texas Olympus sent to to Connecticut.Two camera's and a grip later, I got a good camera. In Oct. Olympus told me the repair center was moving to NJ. BTW Olympus sells their own refurbished cameras and they also sell an extended warranty.
laf wrote:
E M5MII, is high on my list for replacement of too heavy DSLR.
So tell me how you find the em5/2: Handling and ergo, IQ, lens quality and price and lastly reliability and dealing with Olympus.
Please save Panasonic/Fuji comments.
So tell me how you find the em5/2: Handling and ergo, IQ, lens quality and price and lastly reliability and dealing with Olympus.
Please save Panasonic/Fuji comments.
Dec 20, 2015 06:26:30 #
Have the OM-5 & 1, wear a size 10 glove, no problem.
Three problems only:
Menu needs patience to learn
Do NOT buy any kit lens; just not sharp enough
If you are not used to framing as you shoot and try to enlarge a small segment (1/10?) to larger than 8.5x11, expect to be disappointed.
Three problems only:
Menu needs patience to learn
Do NOT buy any kit lens; just not sharp enough
If you are not used to framing as you shoot and try to enlarge a small segment (1/10?) to larger than 8.5x11, expect to be disappointed.
Dec 20, 2015 07:03:28 #
I have an OMD EM10 and an EPL-5, I have a prime Panny 20mm lens on the OMD and a 1445mm lens on the other.
I use my EM10 as my main camera and the EPL5 when I need a wider angle or more zoom.
They both produce high quality images, they are a lot smaller and lighter than most DSLR's and are easy to handle even with large hands.
The menu system takes some getting used to but after four various Olympus cameras it has become quite easy to navigate, the secret is not to try to learn too much at a time.
Anyway I why not go ahead and treat yourself to the OMD you are considering you won't regret it.
I use my EM10 as my main camera and the EPL5 when I need a wider angle or more zoom.
They both produce high quality images, they are a lot smaller and lighter than most DSLR's and are easy to handle even with large hands.
The menu system takes some getting used to but after four various Olympus cameras it has become quite easy to navigate, the secret is not to try to learn too much at a time.
Anyway I why not go ahead and treat yourself to the OMD you are considering you won't regret it.
Dec 20, 2015 07:10:32 #
lukan
Loc: Chicago, IL
I had the OMD EM-1 until it, and my whole bag, was stolen out of a parked car. The PRO lenses are the way to go on the EM5/ii body, or any of their primes. The menu simply requires that you pay attention and have a reasonable understanding of what you're doing... I never had a problem with it. The body is durable, the feel is precise (not bulky like a DSLR).
The two lenses I'd start with are the 12-40 f2.8 and the 75 f1.8 (portraits!); then eventually get the 40-150 f2.8.
GREAT system, 1/3 the weight of a DSLR. Awesome pictures.
The two lenses I'd start with are the 12-40 f2.8 and the 75 f1.8 (portraits!); then eventually get the 40-150 f2.8.
GREAT system, 1/3 the weight of a DSLR. Awesome pictures.
Dec 20, 2015 08:17:47 #
johnmowry
Loc: Northern Indiana, USA
I got the Mk 1 at clearance prices and love it. When I read the reviews on the Mk 2, I decided to try it, and have since decided to sell my Canon gear. I have the 12-40 2.8, and it's great. Also ditto for the 20 mm Pany & 42.5 Oly. The small sensor will probably limit you to 20x24 prints. I have only printed to 13x19, and those are quite good. The manual is a challenge. I haven't tried to master the whole thing, but found the key bits I needed and will add more later. I have not had any problems, so no comments on dealing with Olympus. Focus peaking is a plus. And my whole kit weighs about the same as my Canon with a good mid=range zoom. Enjoy.
Dec 20, 2015 08:23:15 #
dasphoto
Loc: Lancaster County, Pennsylvania
I got the OMD-5 Mk2 in July. I have the 12-40 2.8, 40-150 2.8, 1.4 tele-converter, and the 75-300 4.8-6.7 lenses. Christmas will hopefully bring the 60 macro. Ive made approximately 3500 exposures, so Im beginning to get a feel for the camera. I shoot lots of topics including closeups, landscape, humminbirds etc. FYI I started with a Minolata SRT-101 many years ago. Then a Nikon 8008. My digital experience began with a Canon G2. Then for 10+ years, Ive primarily been using various Canon image stailized P&S and currently have an S120 very nice and compact. I also have an old Nikon D70 which never saw much use. I read about the Canon SX50 on UHH (Ive been lurking and learning for close to 2 years) and got one early in 2015. It really brought back the interest in photography. While it is a wonderful bridge camera, I wanted a more advanced system and knew from my SLR and D70 experience that I was NOT going to lug around a full size kit on a regular basis.
Thus the Olympus and especially the OMD-5 Mk2. The body and lenses have met my expectations. The 2.8 pro lenses have exceeded them. The body is just large enough to feel good in my hands. I initially looked at the Sony A6000 but it was too small for my hands and comfort. The Olympus controls are mostly well placed and useable with ease. The menu is learnable but not near as intuitive as my Canons. There are so many programmable options that with some time, you can set buttons to do what would be more difficult when using a menu. The menu is certainly not a deal breaker to me. My primary mode is aperture priority and I find the available wheels and toggles allow easy access to all the elements of the exposure triangle (quadrangle if you include ISO). All modes work easily.
A major plus of the OMD-5Mk2 for me was the fully articulated screen. This allows a whole new perspective to be explored without excessive body contortions. I would likely never try (or be able to I just dont bend as well as I age) the many photographic angles this screen flexibility allows. I use the EVF about half the time and it is adequate but not super.
The stabilization is great and is truly an asset.
I find that the camera still makes you work for tack sharp telephoto shots. You can do handheld but if you pixel peep, the sharpness is very acceptable but not great. Placed on a solid tripod, the sharpness is very good. Ive yet to get anything resembling the super tack sharp full frame examples on UHH (some by Gene51 are amazing). I dont want to corrupt this thread and get into the whole FF,APS, micro 4/3s argument as each has its many advantages. The OMD-5Mk2 as all the plusses and minuses of a micro 4/3 system. I am learning to get the image close to what I want in the camera as cropping in PP is somewhat limited by the available megapixels.
Image quality is very very good. Noise is not an issue for me up to ISO 1600 and above that it is ok and can be addressed in PP. The electronic shutter is fantastic. It is amazingly quiet and I think it helps reduce vibration. This body can be used in a quiet room with minimal sound intrusion! The normal shutter is also very quiet.
I just installed a Canon PixmaPro-100 and have only begun printing with it. (I find that taking the photo is much more fun than processing or printing but know I need to work on the later). I shoot both RAW and JPG and have begun using the RAW in PSE. Of note, the jpgs produced by the Olympus are very good and printing them straight out of the camera is entirely adequate. With my limited PP experience, the RAW images allow superior adjustments and Ive had a few that easily exceed the jpg. The Olympus will provide more than adequate quality for my printing as I move up to 13x19 inch prints. To me, the whole tack sharpness issue is less important when you print because the print is limited. You can;t zoom and pixel peep with a print. The OMD-5Mk2 has been super so far with my limited printing.
I have had no problems with the camera and have not dealt with Olympus.
I'm satisfied with the pricing. The body is very reasonable. The pro lenses are a bit pricey but the quality is definitely up there. When you compare what a larger system would cost for similar lenses etc, the price is much more acceptable.
One note on the pro lenses. Their larger diameter actually extends below the base of the camera. If you have a large tripod quick release attachment - ala Manfroto, it is possible that the lens barrel will hit the quick release. A smaller attachment is needed.
Handling has always been fine. The camera, being smaller, is not as 'grippable' as the SX50 or larger cameras. I may try a RRS L bracket and grip but they are not needed (they will solve the quick release issue with pro lenses mentioned above). The ergonomics are good. Many operations can be done easily without looking. The smaller buttons have not been a problem for me.
In summary, so far Ive been a happy camper with the OMD-5Mk2. I am only beginning to find its capabilities (and limits). It is my go to camera for most uses. If I ever want to be reminded how nice the size and weight are, I go pick up the D70 with an 80-200 zoom. The abilities of a modern FF are amazing, but so are those of the smaller systems. For me, the OMD-5Mk2 meets my needs and makes me want to go out and shoot!
Thus the Olympus and especially the OMD-5 Mk2. The body and lenses have met my expectations. The 2.8 pro lenses have exceeded them. The body is just large enough to feel good in my hands. I initially looked at the Sony A6000 but it was too small for my hands and comfort. The Olympus controls are mostly well placed and useable with ease. The menu is learnable but not near as intuitive as my Canons. There are so many programmable options that with some time, you can set buttons to do what would be more difficult when using a menu. The menu is certainly not a deal breaker to me. My primary mode is aperture priority and I find the available wheels and toggles allow easy access to all the elements of the exposure triangle (quadrangle if you include ISO). All modes work easily.
A major plus of the OMD-5Mk2 for me was the fully articulated screen. This allows a whole new perspective to be explored without excessive body contortions. I would likely never try (or be able to I just dont bend as well as I age) the many photographic angles this screen flexibility allows. I use the EVF about half the time and it is adequate but not super.
The stabilization is great and is truly an asset.
I find that the camera still makes you work for tack sharp telephoto shots. You can do handheld but if you pixel peep, the sharpness is very acceptable but not great. Placed on a solid tripod, the sharpness is very good. Ive yet to get anything resembling the super tack sharp full frame examples on UHH (some by Gene51 are amazing). I dont want to corrupt this thread and get into the whole FF,APS, micro 4/3s argument as each has its many advantages. The OMD-5Mk2 as all the plusses and minuses of a micro 4/3 system. I am learning to get the image close to what I want in the camera as cropping in PP is somewhat limited by the available megapixels.
Image quality is very very good. Noise is not an issue for me up to ISO 1600 and above that it is ok and can be addressed in PP. The electronic shutter is fantastic. It is amazingly quiet and I think it helps reduce vibration. This body can be used in a quiet room with minimal sound intrusion! The normal shutter is also very quiet.
I just installed a Canon PixmaPro-100 and have only begun printing with it. (I find that taking the photo is much more fun than processing or printing but know I need to work on the later). I shoot both RAW and JPG and have begun using the RAW in PSE. Of note, the jpgs produced by the Olympus are very good and printing them straight out of the camera is entirely adequate. With my limited PP experience, the RAW images allow superior adjustments and Ive had a few that easily exceed the jpg. The Olympus will provide more than adequate quality for my printing as I move up to 13x19 inch prints. To me, the whole tack sharpness issue is less important when you print because the print is limited. You can;t zoom and pixel peep with a print. The OMD-5Mk2 has been super so far with my limited printing.
I have had no problems with the camera and have not dealt with Olympus.
I'm satisfied with the pricing. The body is very reasonable. The pro lenses are a bit pricey but the quality is definitely up there. When you compare what a larger system would cost for similar lenses etc, the price is much more acceptable.
One note on the pro lenses. Their larger diameter actually extends below the base of the camera. If you have a large tripod quick release attachment - ala Manfroto, it is possible that the lens barrel will hit the quick release. A smaller attachment is needed.
Handling has always been fine. The camera, being smaller, is not as 'grippable' as the SX50 or larger cameras. I may try a RRS L bracket and grip but they are not needed (they will solve the quick release issue with pro lenses mentioned above). The ergonomics are good. Many operations can be done easily without looking. The smaller buttons have not been a problem for me.
In summary, so far Ive been a happy camper with the OMD-5Mk2. I am only beginning to find its capabilities (and limits). It is my go to camera for most uses. If I ever want to be reminded how nice the size and weight are, I go pick up the D70 with an 80-200 zoom. The abilities of a modern FF are amazing, but so are those of the smaller systems. For me, the OMD-5Mk2 meets my needs and makes me want to go out and shoot!
Dec 20, 2015 08:39:00 #
It really boils down to handling between the em5ii and the em1. I like a grip, therefore the em1 works well for me. It also has a faster focusing AF over the em5ii which works quite well for using legacy glass. Now if I wanted something more compact, needed a high Rez mode for studio work, or a slightly better video mode, the em5ii would get my vote.
Dec 20, 2015 09:43:42 #
moguy
Loc: St. Charles, MO
I have the EM5MII and love it. I did add on a Fotodiox grip which makes it much easier to hold and also solves the problem of the pro lenses hitting the tripod plate. Take most pictures with the 12-40 pro lens and am very happy with the outcome. Frustrating that my Photoshop Elements doesn't process raw and I find the Olympus Viewer 3 very user unfriendly in comparison.
Dec 20, 2015 09:46:19 #
moguy wrote:
I have the EM5MII and love it. I did add on a Fotodiox grip which makes it much easier to hold and also solves the problem of the pro lenses hitting the tripod plate. Take most pictures with the 12-40 pro lens and am very happy with the outcome. Frustrating that my Photoshop Elements doesn't process raw and I find the Olympus Viewer 3 very user unfriendly in comparison.
Convert to dng using a free raw to dng converter on adobe's website.
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