OM System E-M1 Mark III Astro Camera The OM System E-M1 Mark III Astro Camera is a dedicated camera for astrophotography that optimises the IR cut filter located in front of the image sensor of the mirrorless single-lens camera E-M1 Mark III for astrophotography, allowing you to capture colourful red nebulae that are popular among astrophotography enthusiasts. In addition, the filters included with this product, OM SYSTEM's computational photography, and M.ZUIKO DIGITAL lenses enable a wide range of expression from starry sky photography to full-scale astrophotography, such as constellations and nebulae. The OM SYSTEM E-M1 Mark III ASTRO has an IR cut filter in front of the image sensor that has been optimised for optical characteristics to achieve approximately 100% transmittance of Hα rays, which are important for astronomical photography. This allows you to vividly capture the beautiful shapes and colours of nebulae that emit light from Hα rays, which are difficult to capture with ordinary digital cameras. Combining a wide variety of M.ZUIKO DIGITAL lenses, from wide-angle to telephoto, which can be selected according to the subject, you can capture beautiful images of various celestial objects, from magnificent starry skies to specific constellations and distant nebulae. In addition, using a commercially available Micro Four Thirds compatible adapter, you can attach it to an astronomical telescope and take pictures. Light pollution filters cut out light from artificial light sources such as city lights and street lamps. This prevents colour casts in the night sky, allowing you to capture the original beauty of nebulae and constellations more vividly. In addition, since the area near the horizon is most susceptible to light pollution, they are also effective when photographing constellations rising in the eastern sky or setting in the western sky.
OM System E-M1 Mark III Astro Camera The OM System E-M1 Mark III Astro Camera is a dedicated camera for astrophotography that optimises the IR cut filter located in front of the image sensor of the mirrorless single-lens camera E-M1 Mark III for astrophotography, allowing you to capture colourful red nebulae that are popular among astrophotography enthusiasts. In addition, the filters included with this product, OM SYSTEM's computational photography, and M.ZUIKO DIGITAL lenses enable a wide range of expression from starry sky photography to full-scale astrophotography, such as constellations and nebulae. The OM SYSTEM E-M1 Mark III ASTRO has an IR cut filter in front of the image sensor that has been optimised for optical characteristics to achieve approximately 100% transmittance of Hα rays, which are important for astronomical photography. This allows you to vividly capture the beautiful shapes and colours of nebulae that emit light from Hα rays, which are difficult to capture with ordinary digital cameras. Combining a wide variety of M.ZUIKO DIGITAL lenses, from wide-angle to telephoto, which can be selected according to the subject, you can capture beautiful images of various celestial objects, from magnificent starry skies to specific constellations and distant nebulae. In addition, using a commercially available Micro Four Thirds compatible adapter, you can attach it to an astronomical telescope and take pictures. Light pollution filters cut out light from artificial light sources such as city lights and street lamps. This prevents colour casts in the night sky, allowing you to capture the original beauty of nebulae and constellations more vividly. In addition, since the area near the horizon is most susceptible to light pollution, they are also effective when photographing constellations rising in the eastern sky or setting in the western sky.
OM System E-M Mark III Astro Mirrorless Camera Body (Black)
OM System E-M1 Mark III Astro Camera The OM System E-M1 Mark III Astro Camera is a dedicated camera for astrophotography that optimises the IR cut filter located in front of the image sensor of the mirrorless single-lens camera E-M1 Mark III for astrophotography, allowing you to capture colourful red nebulae that are popular among astrophotography enthusiasts. In addition, the filters included with this product, OM SYSTEM's computational photography, and M.ZUIKO DIGITAL lenses enable a wide range of expression from starry sky photography to full-scale astrophotography, such as constellations and nebulae. The OM SYSTEM E-M1 Mark III ASTRO has an IR cut filter in front of the image sensor that has been optimised for optical characteristics to achieve approximately 100% transmittance of Hα rays, which are important for astronomical photography. This allows you to vividly capture the beautiful shapes and colours of nebulae that emit light from Hα rays, which are difficult to capture with ordinary digital cameras. Combining a wide variety of M.ZUIKO DIGITAL lenses, from wide-angle to telephoto, which can be selected according to the subject, you can capture beautiful images of various celestial objects, from magnificent starry skies to specific constellations and distant nebulae. In addition, using a commercially available Micro Four Thirds compatible adapter, you can attach it to an astronomical telescope and take pictures. Light pollution filters cut out light from artificial light sources such as city lights and street lamps. This prevents colour casts in the night sky, allowing you to capture the original beauty of nebulae and constellations more vividly. In addition, since the area near the horizon is most susceptible to light pollution, they are also effective when photographing constellations rising in the eastern sky or setting in the western sky.
OM System E-M1 Mark III Astro Camera The OM System E-M1 Mark III Astro Camera is a dedicated camera for astrophotography that optimises the IR cut filter located in front of the image sensor of the mirrorless single-lens camera E-M1 Mark III for astrophotography, allowing you to capture colourful red nebulae that are popular among astrophotography enthusiasts. In addition, the filters included with this product, OM SYSTEM's computational photography, and M.ZUIKO DIGITAL lenses enable a wide range of expression from starry sky photography to full-scale astrophotography, such as constellations and nebulae. The OM SYSTEM E-M1 Mark III ASTRO has an IR cut filter in front of the image sensor that has been optimised for optical characteristics to achieve approximately 100% transmittance of Hα rays, which are important for astronomical photography. This allows you to vividly capture the beautiful shapes and colours of nebulae that emit light from Hα rays, which are difficult to capture with ordinary digital cameras. Combining a wide variety of M.ZUIKO DIGITAL lenses, from wide-angle to telephoto, which can be selected according to the subject, you can capture beautiful images of various celestial objects, from magnificent starry skies to specific constellations and distant nebulae. In addition, using a commercially available Micro Four Thirds compatible adapter, you can attach it to an astronomical telescope and take pictures. Light pollution filters cut out light from artificial light sources such as city lights and street lamps. This prevents colour casts in the night sky, allowing you to capture the original beauty of nebulae and constellations more vividly. In addition, since the area near the horizon is most susceptible to light pollution, they are also effective when photographing constellations rising in the eastern sky or setting in the western sky.
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The lowest price for OM System E-M Mark III Astro Mirrorless Camera Body (Black) right now is $2,239.30 at digiDirect Australia, compared across 3 retailers.
The all-time low was $2,239.30 on 13 June 2026. That's the lowest price we've ever tracked — a great time to buy.
Prices last updated 13 June 2026.
Last updated at 13/06/2026 16:23:40
OM SYSTEM E-M1 MARK III Astro Kit
Delivery between 19–23 June $8.95
Olympus OM SYSTEM E-M1 Mark III Astro Kit Compact System Camera
Free delivery between 18–26 June
OM SYSTEM E-M1 Mark III Astro Kit
Delivery $9.90
originally posted on bhphotovideo.com
Earlier this year I bought an E-M1.2 to replace my Canon FF gear as a primary backpacking landscape system, and in short order added this E-M1.3 to the stable too. The Olympus MFT system allows you to use compact, sharp, lightweight, rugged lenses, which is a boon when hauling heavy gear into the backcountry. Despite the equivalence penalty on light gathering, the E-M1.3 IBIS allows me to shoot at impossibly slow shutter speeds and still get a razor sharp image. The grip and ergonomics are the most comfortable I've used, though my Canon R6/5 are no slouches. HHHR is an amazing feature for static scenes, giving me resolution on par with the R5, while also substantially improving noise & DR, without the need for a tripod. My only critique for this camera is the ... MoreEarlier this year I bought an E-M1.2 to replace my Canon FF gear as a primary backpacking landscape system, and in short order added this E-M1.3 to the stable too. The Olympus MFT system allows you to use compact, sharp, lightweight, rugged lenses, which is a boon when hauling heavy gear into the backcountry. Despite the equivalence penalty on light gathering, the E-M1.3 IBIS allows me to shoot at impossibly slow shutter speeds and still get a razor sharp image. The grip and ergonomics are the most comfortable I've used, though my Canon R6/5 are no slouches. HHHR is an amazing feature for static scenes, giving me resolution on par with the R5, while also substantially improving noise & DR, without the need for a tripod. My only critique for this camera is the relatively low res EVF, although it's still quite usable. Beyond landscape, I've started dipping my toes in the water of bird photography, and despite the lack of AI bird subject detection, when configured appropriately the E-M1.3 is a solid birding body, made better by the availability of wicked sharp, handholdable lens options like the 40-150 f/2.8 and the 300 f/4. Coming from FF, I'm sold on the benefits of the MFT system for backpacking landscapes and wildlife (although I'll keep my Canon FF gear & f/1.4 lenses for portrait work), and will be keeping a close eye for good deals on an OM-1 body.
originally posted on thetedstore.com
I switched from FT to MFT about 18 months ago with the purchase of an E-M1ii. It's a great camera, but the E-M1iii is an order of magnitude better. Some people may view the E-M1iii as only a minor evolutionary upgrade to the E-M1ii, but I think they are focusing only on the sensor, EVF, and flippy screen being the same and on a few of the little improvements, and are totally missing the bigger picture (two puns intended). In reality, the sum total of the little improvements PLUS the major improvements make the E-M1iii a huge upgrade: faster and newer TruePic processor, USB power and charging, LiveComp extended from 3 hours to 6 hours, better face detect, better IBIS, joystick, rated weather sealing, higher rated shutter, four custom modes and bulb on the dial, ... MoreI switched from FT to MFT about 18 months ago with the purchase of an E-M1ii. It's a great camera, but the E-M1iii is an order of magnitude better. Some people may view the E-M1iii as only a minor evolutionary upgrade to the E-M1ii, but I think they are focusing only on the sensor, EVF, and flippy screen being the same and on a few of the little improvements, and are totally missing the bigger picture (two puns intended). In reality, the sum total of the little improvements PLUS the major improvements make the E-M1iii a huge upgrade: faster and newer TruePic processor, USB power and charging, LiveComp extended from 3 hours to 6 hours, better face detect, better IBIS, joystick, rated weather sealing, higher rated shutter, four custom modes and bulb on the dial, MyMenu, handheld high res, LiveND, and the list goes on. The E-M1iii is a fantastic camera to handle and shoot with.Here are two example images. I wish I had more, but shelter at home and smoke from California's forest fires have mostly kept me from shooting outside. The star trails image is from mid-August (before the fires) and used a Laowa 4.3 mm circular fisheye and 270x30s LiveComp frames, for a total exposure time of 2h15m. The blue and gold macaw is from the local zoo under smoky skies. I used the 40-150 f/2.8 Pro + MC-14 teleconverter + digital zoom. I almost never use the digital zoom, but I wanted to see how this would turn out. It worked just fine, although the digital zoom reduced the effective resolution.
originally posted on thetedstore.com
I've been shooting M43 since 2010 and they've all been a joy to use and the output never let me down. Keep in mind this is a power user camera so it favors the type of person who researches and sinks in time into technical things. The menus have been improved since the first time I tried Olympus em5ii back in 2016- which was so bad I swore never again. I usually shoot Panasonic, and had/have a G9, but the em1iii really intrigued me so I gave it another try. It really won me over. If you shoot stills this is IMO the most unique and well rounded stills camera there is. I have taken m43 cameras up Yosemite big walls, on Sierra through hikes, on 3000'+ mountain bike climbs and you still can't beat m43 when it comes to size, weight, portability and value. Olympus really ... MoreI've been shooting M43 since 2010 and they've all been a joy to use and the output never let me down. Keep in mind this is a power user camera so it favors the type of person who researches and sinks in time into technical things. The menus have been improved since the first time I tried Olympus em5ii back in 2016- which was so bad I swore never again. I usually shoot Panasonic, and had/have a G9, but the em1iii really intrigued me so I gave it another try. It really won me over. If you shoot stills this is IMO the most unique and well rounded stills camera there is. I have taken m43 cameras up Yosemite big walls, on Sierra through hikes, on 3000'+ mountain bike climbs and you still can't beat m43 when it comes to size, weight, portability and value. Olympus really upped the game with this one because the features and improvements really play into fast and light ethos and let me go tripod free and filterless for drastic weight savings. All my lenses are Panasonic yet in controlled indoors testing I can handhold 6-8" second long exposures. It's magic IBIS. Auto focus and bursts are spot on, I'm no nature photographer but had no problems casually shooting birds in flight. With HHHR you can shoot at high ISO's (6400) and cancel out all noise and have more DR and all the resolution you want. LiveND is INSANE— thought it would be a gimmick but its completely changed photography for me. A simple stroll down the beach or across all the streams, rivers and waterfalls I come across (but not carrying the gear or have time to do traditional longer exposure) have yielded fantastic photos I otherwise wouldn't have made. See attached photo. It is also not limited to water- there is huge creative opportunity here. And when I do place the camera on a tripod LiveComp is so much more convenient and I don't have to guess or do all the PP. I love the JPEG output, especially the Natural setting. Yeah it's not FF but I was quite surprised at how well it jpeg processes high ISO files (10,000+, even at max ISO 25,600 was quite surprising) You can obsess about specs, sensor size, DOF, frames per second, f2.8 in FF all you want (lol at guy who returned his), but when was the last time a new camera actually enhanced your creativity? There are some things to complain about (like the evf) but if you are like me you understand trade offs (size & battery life for example) and what actually matters in the final output then this is the camera for you.
| Lens mount | Micro Four Thirds Mount |
| Level indicator | 2-axis (horizontal/vertical) spirit level |
OM SYSTEM E-M1 MARK III Astro Kit
Delivery between 19–23 June $8.95
Olympus OM SYSTEM E-M1 Mark III Astro Kit Compact System Camera
Free delivery between 18–26 June
OM SYSTEM E-M1 Mark III Astro Kit
Delivery $9.90
Earlier this year I bought an E-M1.2 to replace my Canon FF gear as a primary backpacking landscape system, and in short order added this E-M1.3 to the stable too. The Olympus MFT system allows you to use compact, sharp, lightweight, rugged lenses, which is a boon when hauling heavy gear into the backcountry. Despite the equivalence penalty on light gathering, the E-M1.3 IBIS allows me to shoot at impossibly slow shutter speeds and still get a razor sharp image. The grip and ergonomics are the most comfortable I've used, though my Canon R6/5 are no slouches. HHHR is an amazing feature for static scenes, giving me resolution on par with the R5, while also substantially improving noise & DR, without the need for a tripod. My only critique for this camera is the ... MoreEarlier this year I bought an E-M1.2 to replace my Canon FF gear as a primary backpacking landscape system, and in short order added this E-M1.3 to the stable too. The Olympus MFT system allows you to use compact, sharp, lightweight, rugged lenses, which is a boon when hauling heavy gear into the backcountry. Despite the equivalence penalty on light gathering, the E-M1.3 IBIS allows me to shoot at impossibly slow shutter speeds and still get a razor sharp image. The grip and ergonomics are the most comfortable I've used, though my Canon R6/5 are no slouches. HHHR is an amazing feature for static scenes, giving me resolution on par with the R5, while also substantially improving noise & DR, without the need for a tripod. My only critique for this camera is the relatively low res EVF, although it's still quite usable. Beyond landscape, I've started dipping my toes in the water of bird photography, and despite the lack of AI bird subject detection, when configured appropriately the E-M1.3 is a solid birding body, made better by the availability of wicked sharp, handholdable lens options like the 40-150 f/2.8 and the 300 f/4. Coming from FF, I'm sold on the benefits of the MFT system for backpacking landscapes and wildlife (although I'll keep my Canon FF gear & f/1.4 lenses for portrait work), and will be keeping a close eye for good deals on an OM-1 body.
I switched from FT to MFT about 18 months ago with the purchase of an E-M1ii. It's a great camera, but the E-M1iii is an order of magnitude better. Some people may view the E-M1iii as only a minor evolutionary upgrade to the E-M1ii, but I think they are focusing only on the sensor, EVF, and flippy screen being the same and on a few of the little improvements, and are totally missing the bigger picture (two puns intended). In reality, the sum total of the little improvements PLUS the major improvements make the E-M1iii a huge upgrade: faster and newer TruePic processor, USB power and charging, LiveComp extended from 3 hours to 6 hours, better face detect, better IBIS, joystick, rated weather sealing, higher rated shutter, four custom modes and bulb on the dial, ... MoreI switched from FT to MFT about 18 months ago with the purchase of an E-M1ii. It's a great camera, but the E-M1iii is an order of magnitude better. Some people may view the E-M1iii as only a minor evolutionary upgrade to the E-M1ii, but I think they are focusing only on the sensor, EVF, and flippy screen being the same and on a few of the little improvements, and are totally missing the bigger picture (two puns intended). In reality, the sum total of the little improvements PLUS the major improvements make the E-M1iii a huge upgrade: faster and newer TruePic processor, USB power and charging, LiveComp extended from 3 hours to 6 hours, better face detect, better IBIS, joystick, rated weather sealing, higher rated shutter, four custom modes and bulb on the dial, MyMenu, handheld high res, LiveND, and the list goes on. The E-M1iii is a fantastic camera to handle and shoot with.Here are two example images. I wish I had more, but shelter at home and smoke from California's forest fires have mostly kept me from shooting outside. The star trails image is from mid-August (before the fires) and used a Laowa 4.3 mm circular fisheye and 270x30s LiveComp frames, for a total exposure time of 2h15m. The blue and gold macaw is from the local zoo under smoky skies. I used the 40-150 f/2.8 Pro + MC-14 teleconverter + digital zoom. I almost never use the digital zoom, but I wanted to see how this would turn out. It worked just fine, although the digital zoom reduced the effective resolution.
I've been shooting M43 since 2010 and they've all been a joy to use and the output never let me down. Keep in mind this is a power user camera so it favors the type of person who researches and sinks in time into technical things. The menus have been improved since the first time I tried Olympus em5ii back in 2016- which was so bad I swore never again. I usually shoot Panasonic, and had/have a G9, but the em1iii really intrigued me so I gave it another try. It really won me over. If you shoot stills this is IMO the most unique and well rounded stills camera there is. I have taken m43 cameras up Yosemite big walls, on Sierra through hikes, on 3000'+ mountain bike climbs and you still can't beat m43 when it comes to size, weight, portability and value. Olympus really ... MoreI've been shooting M43 since 2010 and they've all been a joy to use and the output never let me down. Keep in mind this is a power user camera so it favors the type of person who researches and sinks in time into technical things. The menus have been improved since the first time I tried Olympus em5ii back in 2016- which was so bad I swore never again. I usually shoot Panasonic, and had/have a G9, but the em1iii really intrigued me so I gave it another try. It really won me over. If you shoot stills this is IMO the most unique and well rounded stills camera there is. I have taken m43 cameras up Yosemite big walls, on Sierra through hikes, on 3000'+ mountain bike climbs and you still can't beat m43 when it comes to size, weight, portability and value. Olympus really upped the game with this one because the features and improvements really play into fast and light ethos and let me go tripod free and filterless for drastic weight savings. All my lenses are Panasonic yet in controlled indoors testing I can handhold 6-8" second long exposures. It's magic IBIS. Auto focus and bursts are spot on, I'm no nature photographer but had no problems casually shooting birds in flight. With HHHR you can shoot at high ISO's (6400) and cancel out all noise and have more DR and all the resolution you want. LiveND is INSANE— thought it would be a gimmick but its completely changed photography for me. A simple stroll down the beach or across all the streams, rivers and waterfalls I come across (but not carrying the gear or have time to do traditional longer exposure) have yielded fantastic photos I otherwise wouldn't have made. See attached photo. It is also not limited to water- there is huge creative opportunity here. And when I do place the camera on a tripod LiveComp is so much more convenient and I don't have to guess or do all the PP. I love the JPEG output, especially the Natural setting. Yeah it's not FF but I was quite surprised at how well it jpeg processes high ISO files (10,000+, even at max ISO 25,600 was quite surprising) You can obsess about specs, sensor size, DOF, frames per second, f2.8 in FF all you want (lol at guy who returned his), but when was the last time a new camera actually enhanced your creativity? There are some things to complain about (like the evf) but if you are like me you understand trade offs (size & battery life for example) and what actually matters in the final output then this is the camera for you.
I am not a pro BUT an avid photo guy since the 70s. I rarily do video so my comments are limited to the stills capability. I primarily use my camera system for travel/hiking trips - so in addition to image quality, my priority is size/weight/portability of the full system.I had adopted the MFT system when I ditched my old Nikon D70s DSLR for a OMD EM5-ii around 2013. In 2021 I decided I wanted to upgrade. Since the OMD M1 mkiii was $1899 at the time I also was trying to decide if I should go to FF. My budget was bodies in the $2000 range - Sony A7iii and Z6 ended up being the FF contenders (both 24 Mp imagers). After about 4 months of trying the various camera and lens combos and hundreds of real-life side-by-side image tests and print tests, I decided on sticking ... MoreI am not a pro BUT an avid photo guy since the 70s. I rarily do video so my comments are limited to the stills capability. I primarily use my camera system for travel/hiking trips - so in addition to image quality, my priority is size/weight/portability of the full system.I had adopted the MFT system when I ditched my old Nikon D70s DSLR for a OMD EM5-ii around 2013. In 2021 I decided I wanted to upgrade. Since the OMD M1 mkiii was $1899 at the time I also was trying to decide if I should go to FF. My budget was bodies in the $2000 range - Sony A7iii and Z6 ended up being the FF contenders (both 24 Mp imagers). After about 4 months of trying the various camera and lens combos and hundreds of real-life side-by-side image tests and print tests, I decided on sticking with the MFT format. I saw small differences (mainly in shadow detail at higher ISO) but in many shots the differences just did not matter when displayed at 100% (vs. pixel peeping at 400%) and were actually NOT visible in the final ink jet prints at 300 and 600 dpi. Again I am just saying for me and the kind of images I do, I did not see a noticable difference between FF 24Mp and MFT 20Mp images for the kind of photography I do. Mileage will vary on teh indivudal and the application.The GOOD: At a very high level, this camera allows you to be creative and try out a lot of image ideas - the controls and buttons are placed logically (at least for me) and the ability to reassign button function makes the camera your own. Color and image detail are awesome and 20 Mpixel is fine for me. The body fits in the hand very comfortably and is well-balanced with all the MFT lenses I own from tiny primes to bigger fast zooms. The IBIS is second to none - I never though this would be a thing for me, until I started realizing that I could take hand-held shots at a couple seconds and they were razor sharp. Weather sealing - this is not BS. On a trip to the desert I was taking some sunset photos and the fines that were blowing took out one of my non-weather sealed Oly cameras (EPL5 - IBIS stopped working) and a friend's SONY had the mechanical shutter go out. The OMD EM1 iii worked right through the sand storm. In Iceland similar experince with others complaining of camera fails near waterfalls - this OMD M1 mkiii worked without a hitch despite a lot fo water and is still working a year later.CONS: A lot of folks complain about the menus - I won't argue exept to say that once you figure them out they aren't really harder than other systems, just a bit quirky. HOWEVER Oly allows you to set up custom menu screens bypass the standard arrangement so you can have only those features you want in a single screen access and you can create multiple tabbed menus.Last words: There is no perfect camera and ultimately it is a personal choice based on a lot of factors. I suggest people TRY an oly and of course other brands and pick the camera that works for them. In the MFT arena I think the OMD M1 mkiii has the most bang for the buck - between its unbeaten image stabilization system that allows good shots with crazy low shutter speeds, a natural way of working (button placement and customization), tons of mature and stable computational tricks under the hood (50m and 80mpixel shift capability, electronic ND filters, focus and exposure stacking, live view so you can build up exposures in real time and see the result developing, a great ouit-of-camera JPEG with no image twiddling, un-rivalled camera customization as well as a huge selection of high-quality lenses. The OMD M1 iii offers the ability to capture very high quality images, in a very lean and robust weather-sealed travel kit that gives super high quality images in many situations where other systems would fail.
Being a first-time E-M1 owner coming over from a Sony APS-C A6500, I had reservations about the move to a smaller camera sensor that'd sacrifice image quality for a better IBIS. However, after renting this camera with the Zuiko Pro 12-100mm lens, I was actually surprised to find out that it actually produces sharper images than the A6500. Yes, provided you pair this with a Zuiko Pro lens, it is actually better than any of the zoom-lenses I could find with the APS-C E-mount setup (The closest thing I've came across was the SEL1655G, which has a faster aperture but lacks the zoom and image stabilization. There are better full frame e-mount lenses, but they also do weigh and cost a lot more).While this is a great camera for my need (a travel camera that could ... MoreBeing a first-time E-M1 owner coming over from a Sony APS-C A6500, I had reservations about the move to a smaller camera sensor that'd sacrifice image quality for a better IBIS. However, after renting this camera with the Zuiko Pro 12-100mm lens, I was actually surprised to find out that it actually produces sharper images than the A6500. Yes, provided you pair this with a Zuiko Pro lens, it is actually better than any of the zoom-lenses I could find with the APS-C E-mount setup (The closest thing I've came across was the SEL1655G, which has a faster aperture but lacks the zoom and image stabilization. There are better full frame e-mount lenses, but they also do weigh and cost a lot more).While this is a great camera for my need (a travel camera that could eliminate the need for a tripod in many cases), it is not a camera without some weaknesses, and may not necessarily represent the best value for everyone due to its unique features that may require more knowledge beyond point-and-shoot.Why you'd want to consider the E-M1 Mark 3 in particular:1. Superb IBIS (in practice, at least 2-3 stops better than Sony/Nikon where you can consistently get sharp pictures even at 1/5 s)2. Handheld High-Res Mode3. LiveND / Starry Auto-focus for working with long exposure or astrophotography.If none of the above features bring any value to you, then at this price range there may be better choices as a general still-shooting (e.g., Fuji XT-4 or Nikon Z5 will offer theoretically better image quality in ISO 1600+ scenarios whereas you'd need to use the E-M1's high-res mode to deliver similar or better image quality). Similarly, you could get the E-M5 Mk3 which would deliver the same image quality sans the above features for $400~$500 less.You shouldn't consider this camera if:You shoot a lot of night-time / low-light photos that require fast shutter speed (e.g., live action/music performance in a dark setting), as unfortunately none of the camera's features can offset the limitations of a smaller sensor at capturing as much light in a short moment when compared to a full-frame+ camera (Although if you shoot raw, the advancement of post processing software today does close the distance by quite a lot).The top feature for me (and the main reason I got this over the E-M5 Mark 3): Handheld High Res mode. The high-res mode is what allows a micro-four-third sensor camera to deliver image quality close to that of a full frame in the scenarios it was designed for (landscape and stills), and while the tripod high res mode delivers a higher 80 MP resolution, it requires disabling image stabilization (the strength of the camera) which in turn leads to likelihood of ending up with a blurred image due to even the slightest movement. Hand-held high res mode on the other hand, keeps the image stabilization on and seems to deliver more consistent results.As an added bonus, besides the higher resolution, the high res mode also removes a significant amount of noise, giving the camera essentially 1-2 stops of ISO improvement (e.g., an ISO 1600 high res mode more or less will have the noise level of a normal ISO 400 picture), which helps make up some of the inherit limitations of a smaller sensor while still maintaining the size/weight advantage compared to full-frame cameras.Overall, a great landscape / travel camera, but does require you to learn and take advantage of its unique features to really get the most out of it.
I rented this camera for birding stills, and it's far and away the best micro 4/3 body I've tried for this purpose. The ergonomics are excellent, even for larger hands, the buttons are all in the right places for quickly switching modes and recalling custom settings at a moment's notice (needed for birds). It pairs perfectly with the 300mm Pro f/4 lens in terms of image quality and balance/handling.The PD autofocus is far, far better for birds than the DfD autofocus in any Panasonic body I've tried (GH5, GH5ii, GX9, G9). It's not as good as Sony's, but I still got an 80-90% hit rate compared to a 30-40% hit rate with the GH5ii or a near perfect one with the A7. 80-90% is totally acceptable for me since this is a hobby.The dual IS when paired with the Olympus 300mm ... MoreI rented this camera for birding stills, and it's far and away the best micro 4/3 body I've tried for this purpose. The ergonomics are excellent, even for larger hands, the buttons are all in the right places for quickly switching modes and recalling custom settings at a moment's notice (needed for birds). It pairs perfectly with the 300mm Pro f/4 lens in terms of image quality and balance/handling.The PD autofocus is far, far better for birds than the DfD autofocus in any Panasonic body I've tried (GH5, GH5ii, GX9, G9). It's not as good as Sony's, but I still got an 80-90% hit rate compared to a 30-40% hit rate with the GH5ii or a near perfect one with the A7. 80-90% is totally acceptable for me since this is a hobby.The dual IS when paired with the Olympus 300mm is crazy steady - I'd say on par with the Sony A7III/200-600, if not a little better even. The IS with a Panasonic lens is even pretty good, but it's a noticeable jump when you pair an Olympus lens with this body. I ended up never needing a tripod during my testing, which is just amazing.The EVF is serviceable, but feels a low res coming from a GH5 or an A7. Not crunchy enough to be annoying, but still noticeably low.The only places it still falls short compared to full frame is the ability to crop in and the low light capabilities, but the tradeoffs are worth it for me for how small and light (and cheap :D) the rig is compared to a full frame equivalent.This was my first experience with Lensrentals, and it was an excellent one - the camera was in perfect shape and packed well in a Pelican case.
Lensrentals and the Olympus EM1-III were just what I needed. I rented the EM-1 III as a backup for my main camera, an EM-1 II, for a community event I was photographer for. Lensrentals made the process simple and very enjoyable. The camera came in a soft case that was protected by a pelican style hard case. Basically short of the apocalypse the equipment would be safe coming and going back to them. As for the camera, it was great. It's condition was very good to excellent (MPB grade wise) and everything worked a treat. I enjoyed using it so much that I picked up a gently used example for a fantastic price right after returning Lensrental's unit. I will definitely rent from them again as the need arises. Thanks again Lensrentals!
In the 80's I had a Canon F1 and dreamed of a Leica R3 and Leica optics unattainable in price. a well-known photographer from Prentice Hall suggested that he pay attention to Olympus because their lenses, according to him, were of equivalent quality. Years later I bought the Olympus OM4T with 5 fixed lenses 21-2.0, 28-2.0, 50-1.4, 100-2.0 and 90 macro 2.0, a camera that had incredible 7-point multispot reading, the flash synchronized at all speeds, the body in titanium a small body with dreamlike optics. conclusion I sold the Canon F1 and all its optics. Then I decided to enter the world of autofocus, I bought the Canon EOS 1N, I found myself using the Olympus again despite the Canon's autofocus, conclusion, I sold the Canon and continued with the Olympus. I joined ... MoreIn the 80's I had a Canon F1 and dreamed of a Leica R3 and Leica optics unattainable in price. a well-known photographer from Prentice Hall suggested that he pay attention to Olympus because their lenses, according to him, were of equivalent quality. Years later I bought the Olympus OM4T with 5 fixed lenses 21-2.0, 28-2.0, 50-1.4, 100-2.0 and 90 macro 2.0, a camera that had incredible 7-point multispot reading, the flash synchronized at all speeds, the body in titanium a small body with dreamlike optics. conclusion I sold the Canon F1 and all its optics. Then I decided to enter the world of autofocus, I bought the Canon EOS 1N, I found myself using the Olympus again despite the Canon's autofocus, conclusion, I sold the Canon and continued with the Olympus. I joined the digital era and bought the Canon 5D and then Mark ll with 6 lenses, I thought of trying the Olympus OMD EM1, again I found myself using the Olympus and staying at home with the Canon. I switched to the Olympus OMD EM1 mark ll, and bought the Sony 7 All, again I was using the Olympus. Now I bought this model, and decided for now not to buy another brand. I am not going to go into technical details, which are abundant everywhere. For some strange reason, or not so strange, I always go back to Olympus and believe me they always try to afford another brand, and even force me to have and use another brand of camera. But naturally and unintentionally, I return to photograph with Olympus, and always the quality of its incredible optics, its comfort, its quality, those great details that you notice when you use and enjoy them and that reading a technical sheet cannot really be perceived . It is incorporated into your body, into your hands and you only think about the photographic shot that is in front of you or what you are going to look for. And despite the passing of the years I continue to experience the same thing, my mind, my eye, the scene and the photographic camera of this manufacturer that is incorporated as a natural extension of the body almost without realizing it and without perceiving it, but when it is not you have with you the longing My colleagues are surprised that I don't have a full frame and I don't understand why they don't have an Olympus. The only exception is that for a certain photograph I have to resort to my Hasselblad H6X, but that's another story.
The camera arrived. I was surprised by the heft of the package. On opening the box, was impressed by the heavy duty camera case. The package included camera, battery and battery charger. The camera was clean and in almost brand-new condition. Operation was flawless. The package arrived a day early. I was able to meet my obligations. They provided the return label and packing tape. Excellent experience all around. I was tempted to accept their "try and buy" offer.
I'm a fairly serious photographer and I own two full frame camera systems (Canon and Nikon.) Why I have both is a story for another time, but what they both have in common is that a shoulder bag with a body and 3 or 4 lenses is a brick.My first experience with Micro Four Thirds, an Olympus EPL2, was dismal. The camera was a delight to use and the color was exceptional but at 12 megapixels and with a "kit" lens it was no better than a phone. I would not have looked at m43 again if the Pen-F hadn't came along. This was a lovely camera, and having learned from prior experience, I paired it with some very good (and pretty expensive) lenses--mostly Panasonics, as they were smaller than their Olympus equivalents. The Pen-F went with me to China, Japan, Mexico and Agentina ... MoreI'm a fairly serious photographer and I own two full frame camera systems (Canon and Nikon.) Why I have both is a story for another time, but what they both have in common is that a shoulder bag with a body and 3 or 4 lenses is a brick.My first experience with Micro Four Thirds, an Olympus EPL2, was dismal. The camera was a delight to use and the color was exceptional but at 12 megapixels and with a "kit" lens it was no better than a phone. I would not have looked at m43 again if the Pen-F hadn't came along. This was a lovely camera, and having learned from prior experience, I paired it with some very good (and pretty expensive) lenses--mostly Panasonics, as they were smaller than their Olympus equivalents. The Pen-F went with me to China, Japan, Mexico and Agentina and I almost never wished I had a bigger camera. If you're old enough to have had a rangefinder camera system, you know where I'm coming from.I decided to get an EM1 III to try out some features that aren't on the Pen, like handheld high res, simulated neutral density, auto focus stacking and star focus. The handheld high res is a bit hit or miss but it's amazing they can do it at all--a 50 megapixel image from a 20 megapixel sensor. I find the biggest benefit of the high res is not the increased resolution, but the decrease in noise. Not surprisngly, a really good lens benefits the most from the high res feature. One feature I can't reccomend is the built-in HDR. I have yet to see a camera do this well. OTOH, the EM1 III will shoot 7 bracketed exposures almost instantly and when you combine them on your computer, you can get great results.The EM1 III is extremely customizable and it's worth spending an afternoon setting your preferences and saving them to the custom memories. Once that's done, the camera becomes fast to use, although you have to read up on what all the options are before you can set them. Like all expensive digital cameras, there are features that will leave you scratching your head as to who wanted that, but unnecessary features are the lifeblood of consumer electronics.Anything I didn't like? Yes, the EM1 III viewfinder is a somewhat coarse LCD whereas the Pen-F has a beautiful OLED. Supppesedly OLEDs don't react fast enough for the EN1 III's 60 frames/second capability. 60 fps is not a feature I would ever use but I guess someone will.In summary, a beautiful, somewhat expensive piece of gear, ideal for some but not all. If you want the best image quality money can buy, one of the new 40+ megapixel cameras is the way to go. If you're looking for the best value, there are $1000 full frame bodies. If you want excellent quality in a compact system for travel or just less of a burden, a system where even some telephotos weigh less than a pound, an m43 camera is a real treat.
| Lens mount | Micro Four Thirds Mount |
| Level indicator | 2-axis (horizontal/vertical) spirit level |
