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Evaluation of Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III Digital Camera

Top-tier micro four thirds camera for underwater imagery: the upgraded Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III, boasting a performance akin to the Mark II.

Review of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III Camera Model
Review of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III Camera Model

Evaluation of Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III Digital Camera

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III, released in 2020, has made a significant impact in the Micro Four Thirds camera market. This camera, with its compact size and impressive features, is a great choice for photographers who already own Olympus and Panasonic lenses.

Superior Image Quality and Wide-Angle Shooting

The Olympus 7-14mm Pro lens delivers superior image quality compared to the Panasonic 7-14mm, making it an excellent choice for wide-angle shooting. For those seeking the best fisheye lens, the Olympus 8mm Pro offers superior image quality, while the Panasonic 8mm fisheye lens has a wider coverage.

Underwater Photography Capabilities

The Ikelite E-M1 Mark III Housing provides a redeeming quality for the camera in underwater photography, offering full control and access to Nauticam's range of useful accessories. The camera's weatherproof and ergonomic design also makes it suitable for underwater photography. However, it's worth noting that the camera's sensor performs better when it comes to shadow recovery but worse when it comes to highlight recovery, which could be a detriment to underwater photographers who are shooting wide angle and want to recover details from sunballs.

Video Capabilities and Autofocus

The camera's video capabilities are similar to the Mark II, with 4K video @ 30 fps resolution and the OM-Log profile available. The autofocus system allows for custom autofocus target areas and the ability to differentiate the subject area from the background. However, the camera's white balance could be improved in underwater video.

Performance and Specifications

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is equipped with a 20.4 Megapixel Live MOS Sensor, TruePic IX Quad Core Processor, 121 point cross-type phase detect AF system, 5 axis image stabilization up to 7 stops, 2.36M dot electronic viewfinder, 3 inch touch LCD, and a weathersealed body. It offers 15fps [H]/10 fps [L] burst shooting with mechanical shutter, and features such as handheld high res shot mode, live ND filter, electronic shutter, 4K video @ 30 fps with an OM-Log mode, and 440 shot battery life rating.

Controls and Size

The controls underwater are relatively straightforward, but it is recommended to use the custom AF area selection feature due to the small AF box. The camera has dimensions of 90.9 mm X 68.9 mm X 134.1 mm and weighs 580 grams, making it a compact option compared to full frame cameras.

Competition in the Market

In the APS-C mirrorless market, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II and Fujifilm X-series cameras are notable competitors. These cameras offer strong autofocus and video capabilities, similar in size and performance to the E-M1 Mark III. In the full frame mirrorless market, notable competitors include the Nikon Z6 II, Sony A7 IV, and Canon EOS R6 Mark II, all offering larger sensors and higher resolution but larger bodies and price tags.

In summary, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is a Micro Four Thirds camera that excels in in-body image stabilization (IBIS) and rugged weather sealing. It competes mainly against APS-C mirrorless cameras for users valuing compact size, stabilization, and lens ecosystem, while full frame cameras targeted higher-end image quality and professional use cases. Despite its smaller sensor, the E-M1 Mark III offers a great balance of features and performance for photographers who value compactness and the Olympus/Panasonic lens ecosystem.

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  1. For superior diopter performance underwater, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III pairs well with the Ikelite E-M1 Mark III Housing, providing control and access to Nauticam's accessories.
  2. The compact Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is a traveller's delight, equipped with a color-rich 20.4 Megapixel Live MOS Sensor and a weatherproof, ergonomic design.
  3. Wreck enthusiasts will appreciate the 7 axis image stabilization up to 7 stops that the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III offers, ensuring a sharp focus even in bluewater depths.
  4. Underwater macro photographers will find the camera's mirrorless and DSLR compatible focal length useful, managing both wide-angle and close-up shots with ease.
  5. Photographers can capture dynamic reef life with the camera's handheld high res shot mode and live ND filter, providing clear images even in sunlit conditions.
  6. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III's autofocus system endeavors to closely track moving subjects such as sharks, making it an efficient tool for capturing gadgets and technology in their natural underwater environment.
  7. For those seeking more flexibility in their lens choice, the camera supports a wide range of lenses, from compact zooms to specialist optics like the Olympus 7-14mm Pro and 8mm Pro lenses.
  8. While the camera's video capabilities are impressive, underwater videographers may want to consider adjusting the white balance settings to achieve accurate colors.
  9. The compact and rugged Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III proves to be a formidable competitor in the market, giving APS-C mirrorless cameras a run for their money with its unique combination of compact size, IBIS technology, and the Olympus/Panasonic lens ecosystem.

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