AGENDA NEWS
Retro-style OM-1 comes into its own It’s a final farewell to the Olympus
animals and humans. Also improved is the auto white-balance algorithm for precise colour reproduction. The OM System OM-1 Mark II features up to 8.5 stops of five-axis in-body image stabilisation and has an IP53-class splash- and dust-proof design, built to operate down to -10°C. The camera has improved grip surfaces for vertical video support, with UVC/UAC connections to PCs for webcam use. Other video specs aren’t a huge improvement, unfortunately. The OM-1 Mark II shoots 10-bit H.265 internally, with OM-Log 400 gamma for maximum dynamic range. Although full video specs have yet to be revealed, it will match the OM-1 and can record in C4K at up to 60fps in 4:2:0 10-bit or 4:2:0 8-bit, or HD in 240fps in 4:2:0 8-bit. It can also output C4K in 12-bit Raw to an external recorder like an Atomos Ninja. Optional accessories include the HLD-10 Power Battery Holder and RM- WR1 Wireless Remote Control. The OM Workspace image-editing software and OM Capture software offer advanced features and camera control. The OM-1 Mark II costs £2200/ $2399 or £2700/ £3000 with a 12- 40mm f/2.8 kit lens. explore.omsystem.com
name as the OM-1 mirrorless is finally branded as the OM System OM-1 Mark II. Back in 2022 when the OM-1 was the first launch from new owner OM Digital Solutions, it was announced that the pro flagship would be the final to carry the Olympus brand, but the new version still carries the iconic OM-1 model number. The new 4K camera has key upgrades from the Olympus OM-1, but uses the same 20-megapixel stacked BSI Live MOS sensor working with a Truepic X image processor. The stacked sensor gives blackout-free viewing ideal for sports and action. Enhanced memory enables a higher number of sequential stills at up to 120fps with AF disabled, or 50fps with AF tracking. The brand-new Micro Four Thirds camera is the first to offer a Live GND (graduated ND) function, which uses AI to replicate the effects of a graduated ND filter. This allows filter steps of ND2, 4 or 8, and with a soft, medium or hard edge to be applied in real time through the EVF or rear LCD. But it seems this may be for still photos only. The camera, like the older model, boasts built-in ND filters with up to six stops of adjustment. Subject detection AF is improved, as it’s developed from deep-learning technology that recognises cars, birds,
OM SYSTEM EXPANDS A super-telephoto zoom to give incredible reach is the perfect partner for the new OM System OM-1 Mark II. The Zuiko ED 150-600mm f/5.0-6.3 IS gives a 35mm equivalent of a 300- 1200mm lens, so is ideal for sports and wildlife. In combination with the optional 2x Teleconverter MC-20, it goes to 2400mm equivalent. Compatible with five-axis sync image stabilisation when used in conjunction with the OM-1 Mark II, the lens provides up to seven stops of improvement. Independently, it offers up to six stops. The £2400/$2700 optic also boasts IPX1 splash- and dust-proof performance – and has a fluorine coating to fend off the elements. This super-optic has customisable zoom-ring torque settings, allowing for adjustments between Smooth (S) and Tight (T) modes through the Zoom Torque/Lock switch. Using Lock (L) mode secures the lens at the wide-angle end, preventing the zoom from extending while carrying. Additionally, there are switches for focus limiter, focus mode, IS (image stabilisation) as well as a customisable lens function button. It has a closest focusing distance of 56cm at the wide-angle end and 280cm at the telephoto end. At the opposite end of the scale is the new 9-18mm f/4.0-5.6 II, with a 35mm equivalent of 18-36mm. It is the lightest and most compact option among three Zuiko ultra wide-angle zoom lenses, perfect for travel. But the variable maximum aperture may bother some. It costs £600/ £700.
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