Photography News 12

Camera review

The very first CSCs on the scene were Micro Four Thirds cameras fromOlympus and Panasonic. We find out exactly what four of the latest models are capable of Compact systemcameras big test: part 2

Words by Ian Fyfe

top-end models are serious investments. The flagships cost more than any flagship APS-C DSLR, in the same ballpark as entry-level full-frame DSLRs. In this final part of our CSC comparison test, we compare four Micro Four Thirds models and their performance in resolution and ISO. From Olympus we have the flagship OM-D E-M1 and the entry-level OM-D E-M10, and from Panasonic the flagship GH4 and top camera in the more compact line-up, the GX7.

becomes a 140-600mm lens. But there are downsides to the smaller sensor size. Smaller sensors risk lower image quality, with issues such as limited dynamic range and higher noise levels. Achieving shallow depth-of-field is not so easy either. Although they use the same system, Olympus and Panasonic have quite different offerings. Olympus’s cameras have iconic retro designs with very tactile controls, and are split into two levels – the OM-D range, aimed at serious enthusiasts and professionals, and the simpler, more compact PEN range. Panasonic’s Lumix G range, with more modern design and flexibility in the controls, is also split into two categories – those that are styled like DSLRs (GH and G series), and those that are more compact (GX and GF series). The lower-end models of each are ideal for those stepping up or as affordable but capable second cameras, but the

The latest compact system cameras (CSCs) with their APS-C or full-frame sensors match DSLRs when it comes to image quality, but have the advantage of being smaller cameras, hence their popularity. But there are systems based around smaller sensors that offer an even greater size advantage. One of the main players here – indeed the largest CSC system of all in terms of lenses available – is the Micro Four Thirds system, developed by Olympus and Panasonic. The Micro Four Thirds sensor is the same size as the original Four Thirds system used in Olympus digital SLRs at 18x13.5mm with an effective imaging area of 17.3x13mm. Despite the smaller sensor, Olympus and Panasonic claim image quality that rivals that of larger sensor DSLRs. The smaller sensor means a crop factor of two compared with the 35mm format and this gives a big advantage with telephoto lenses – a 70-300mm lens, for example, effectively

Lower-endmodels of each are ideal for those stepping up or as affordable but capable second cameras

Photography News | Issue 12