Olympus Photography Articles

4 Cheap Mirrorless Cameras for 2021

4 Cheap Mirrorless Cameras for 2021

 photo byhsyncoban via iStock

As 2021 gets closer and closer, and as 2020 hopefully begins to fade into a bad memory, I’ve been thinking a lot about getting rid of some of my older camera equipment in favor of something new.  

Since I primarily shoot with DSLRs, I’ve been thinking about upgrading my mirrorless kit to something a little better. But, I also don’t want to spend a fortune doing so since most of my photography income is coming in from projects that I’m using my very expensive DSLR setup with. 

So, I started searching for cheap mirrorless cameras. I obviously didn’t want to get a mirrorless setup that was ancient and ineffective, so I read through plenty of articles where the authors were claiming to have found the best cheap mirrorless cameras in 2020. 

I combined this research with a little bit of hands-on research of my own and I found four really solid cheap mirrorless cameras that I expect to keep performing well in the coming year.

If you’ve been toying with the idea of picking up some budget mirrorless camera for yourself, check out this list. 

Sony a6000

Sony a6000 1

The Sony a6000 tops this cheap mirrorless cameras list because, despite its age, it features some incredible specs and, because of its age, you can pick one up for super cheap.

The Sony a6000 features a 24MP CMOS APS-C sensor and a Bionz X image processor. It can shoot 11fps and both its screen and its electronic viewfinder feature a surprisingly high resolution, considering the camera came out in 2014. Its OLED electronic viewfinder comes with 1.44m-dots, and its 3-inch tilting LCD screen comes with 921k-dots.

Sony a6000 2

Since it is older, it doesn’t shoot 4K video, but you’re going to be hard-pressed to find  any cheap mirrorless cameras that do. 

But, perhaps the best spec to this camera is its autofocus system. It is a hybrid autofocus system that comes with 179 phase-detect points and 25 contrast-detect points. Thanks to this autofocus system, the camera is able to track a subject in burst mode. 

The Sony a6000 also comes with built-in NFC and WiFi. 

Sony a6000 3

Since the Sony a6000 did come out six years ago, there are plenty of them available for sale from other photographers online. 

I went to MPB, which is a used camera retailer that basically does all the leg work of finding and vetting cameras for you, and they had nearly 30 of them listed starting at $314.

If you want an even better deal, you can buy a Sony a6000 in excellent shape for $359. Some of them even come in their original packaging. 

Fujifilm X-T30

Fujifilm X T30 1

The Fujifilm X-T30 is definitely the most interesting camera on this list, if just for its looks. Like the Sony a6000, this camera is incredibly compact so that you can bring it everywhere with you, but it definitely has that Fujifilm flair. It looks much more like an antique rangefinder than any of the other cheap mirrorless cameras in this article. 

This camera definitely has more impressive specs than the Sony a6000 because it is newer, which means it is one of the better mirrorless cameras for 2021 and beyond.

Fujifilm X T30 2

This camera comes with a 26MP APS-C X-Trans IV sensor, which is paired with an X-Processor 4. Both this sensor and this processor are also in the Fujifilm X-T3 which was a mirrorless camera built for professional photographers. So, both the sensor and the processor hold up under intense scrutiny.

If you’ve ever shot with a Fujifilm X-T20 before, then the X-T30 will feel similar. It measures 4.7” x 3.3” x 1.8” and weighs just 13.5 oz. 

This camera features a tilting LCD screen with 1.04m-dots and an electronic viewfinder with 2.36m-dots, so the resolution of both will be better than the previous camera.

Fujifilm X T30 3

The burst mode on this camera is also much better at 30fps, which means that this camera will be wonderful for sports or wildlife photographers. 

Like the Sony a6000, this Fujifilm features an excellent autofocus system. Unlike the Sony a6000, this camera can shoot 4K video, which will appeal to videographers. 

Again, I went to MPB to see if any Fujifilm X-T30s were available for cheap. The best deal on the site is a Fujifilm X-T30 for $629.

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Canon EOS M50

Canon EOS M50 1 

If you’re looking for inexpensive mirrorless cameras, Canon also has an option for you: the Canon EOS M50. 

Of all the cheap mirrorless cameras on this list, the Canon EOS M50 is the newest since it just came out in 2018, but unlike some of the other cheap mirrorless cameras on this list the Canon EOS M50 was never aimed at professional or mid-level photographers. This is definitely one of the best mirrorless cameras for beginners on the market.

Canon EOS M50 2 

The Canon EOS M50 features a 24MP APS-C CMOS sensor with a pretty impressive ISO range of 100-25,600, which means you can shoot great images in low light with this camera.

It comes with the DIGIC 8 processor, which was the newest processor at the time. It definitely isn’t outdated like some of the other processors on this list.

The autofocus system on this Canon is also good. The focus area comes with 99 AF points and if you use certain lenses you can increase this to 143. For beginners, you can use the Eye Detection AF system to track your subjects.

Canon EOS M50 3

This camera does shoot 4K, but the footage is nowhere near as excellent as the footage on the Fujifilm above. For example, the footage that you take in 4K comes with a 1.6 crop. 

The EOS M50 features a 1.04m-dot vari-angle touchscreen and a 2.36m-dot electronic viewfinder. Additionally, it comes with built-in WiFi, NFC and bluetooth. 

You can pick up a used Canon EOS M50 on MPB for as little as $444.

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III

 Olympus OM D E M10 Mark III 1

Last but not least, we have an Olympus. 

Olympus was a little late to the cheap mirrorless cameras game, but has been struggling to catch up. This camera was released in 2017 and was one of the first that featured 4K video. It is the best option for videographers who are looking for cheap mirrorless cameras. 

 This camera features a 16MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, which means the camera is ultra-light and ultra-compact. It would be great for a photographer looking to travel with a light mirrorless setup. 

Olympus OM D E M10 Mark III 2

This is the only camera on our list that comes with 5-axis in-body image stabilization and I think that makes up for the less than impressive sensor. It’s also yet another spec on this camera that suggests it was built for travel photographers. 

This camera can shoot 8.6fps and features a 121-point autofocus system. While shooting with autofocus, you can only shoot 4.8fps. 

The camera looks really retro, sort of like the Fujifilm. 

Olympus OM D E M10 Mark III 3

The 3” LCD screen is a touchscreen and tiltable, so you can use it to shoot in a variety of scenarios. The electronic viewfinder comes with 2.36m-dots. 

If you’re interested in picking up this Olympus, it’s actually the cheapest camera on this cheap mirrorless cameras list. You can purchase one for just $304

And, if you’re interested in learning more about the website that I’ve been referencing throughout this article, MPB, you can read our review of MPB in the learn more links below. 

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4 Reasons to Consider Buying the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

4 Reasons to Consider Buying the Olympus OM D E M5 Mark III

While Sony, Canon, and Nikon receive most of the publicity for digital cameras today, one company you shouldn’t overlook is Olympus. With that said, one of the most popular Olympus cameras ever is the OM-D E-M5 Mark III. And if you want to learn more about it, it’s your lucky day!

In this Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III review, we’ll share four reasons to consider buying one in 2023. We'll cover everything from its design and handling to its imaging and video capabilities to our favorite Micro Four Thirds lenses. Additionally, thanks to innovative online platforms like MPB, buying a used mirrorless camera has never been cheaper and easier than it is today.

Who is MPB? They are a trustworthy and reliable online platform selling pre-owned photography and videography gear at unbeatable prices. Better yet, all their cameras and lenses are meticulously hand-inspected by expert product specialists with years of experience and backed by six-month warranties, allowing you to make your purchases confidently and worry-free.

Over the years, we’ve saved thousands of dollars upgrading our photography kits by buying, selling, and trading in camera equipment on MPB’s online marketplace. Do you want to do the same? Head to their website to start saving money today. Now, without further ado, let’s discover more about the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III! 

Check out the video above by Robin Wong to compare the E-M5 Mark III with the E-M1 Mark II and find out which one is better. 

Table of Contents

The Design and Ergonomics of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

 Design and Ergonomics of the Olympus OM D E M5 Mark III

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is a beginner-friendly camera released in November 2019 and replaced the OM-D E-M5 Mark II. Compared to its predecessor, the Mark III received tons of design upgrades. For example, the mode dial was moved, the Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) was upgraded, and the rear screen now has touchscreen autofocus (AF) capabilities. 

The new mode dial placement lets you control all the most important dials and buttons with one hand. The EVF changed from an LCD to an OLED viewfinder. And the touchscreen allows you to quickly and easily select focus points. These changes, along with the camera’s compact and lightweight design, make the ergonomics and handling one of this camera's biggest strengths. 

Now, here’s an in-depth look at the key features and specs of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III: 

  • Camera Type: Mirrorless
  • Sensor: 20.4MP Four Thirds CMOS Sensor
  • ISO: 200 - 25,600 (expandable to 64 - 25,600)
  • Lens Mount: Micro Four Thirds
  • Speed: 10.0 fps
  • Autofocus: 121 focus points
  • Video: 4K/30p & 1080p/120p
  • Size/Weight: 125 x 85 x 50 mm / 414 grams
  • Battery Life: 310 shots
  • Stabilization: Yes
  • Touchscreen: Yes
  • Weather-Sealed: Yes
  • Used Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Price: $619 - $649

The Imaging Performance of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

Imaging Performance of the Olympus OM D E M5 Mark III

At the heart of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III lies a 20.4-megapixel Four Thirds sensor and a TruePic VIII image processor. That’s four megapixels more than the previous model had and the same as the higher-end OM-D E-M1 II. The sensor delivers sharp and detailed RAW and JPEG images, while the processor improves the camera’s speed. 

Other imaging features include 10 fps burst shooting, beautiful out-of-the-camera colors, and a high-resolution mode. The fast burst shooting is good for action, adventure, sports, and wildlife photography. The attractive colors (especially when shooting JPEGs) mean less time editing images. And the high-res mode creates stunning 50 or 80MP photos – ideal for landscapes and cityscapes.

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The Video Performance of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

Video Performance of the Olympus OM D E M5 Mark III

Unlike most entry-level cameras, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III boasts UHD and DCI 4K video capabilities. UHD video is shot at 4K/30p, and DCI footage is recorded at 4K/24p. Furthermore, it offers 1080p/120p slow-motion video capture and a fully articulating rear screen –  absolute must-have features for vloggers. 

However, the camera’s signature video feature is its updated image stabilization (IS) system. It adds 5.5 exposure stops to your content (6.5 if using a lens with optical image stabilization) and significantly reduces camera shake when shooting handheld video. Another benefit of the IS is that it boosts the OM-D E-M5 Mark III’s low-light performance for photos and videos.

The Lens Compatibility of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

Lens Compatibility of the Olympus OM D E M5 Mark III

Like all Micro Four Thirds (MFT) cameras, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III has an incredibly deep selection of native Micro Four Thirds lenses. Olympus and Panasonic are the two primary manufacturers of MFT lenses, but there are also tons of high-quality third-party lenses. Over 200 MFT lenses are currently on the market, with more and more debuting every year. 

Here’s a short list of some of the best Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III lenses for photo and video to pair with the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III.

Final Thoughts on the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

Thoughts on the Olympus OM D E M5 Mark III

The bottom line is the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is a kick-ass camera! It’s a compact, portable, mirrorless camera packing a powerful punch thanks to its outstanding photo and video performance. It’s perfect for entry-level and enthusiast-level photographers, especially those who enjoy capturing adventure, travel, and street photography.

Thank you for taking the time to read our Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III review. We hope you found it informative and that it has helped you come closer to deciding on your next camera! Having said that, if you want to compare it against other Olympus mirrorless cameras currently in stock at MPB, check out the list below:

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4 Reasons Why the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II is a Great Beginner Camera

the Olympus OM D E M5 Mark II is a Great Beginner Camera

Beginners looking for a great camera to get them into serious photography and with the capacity to allow them to grow as a photographer should check out the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II mirrorless interchangeable lens MFT format camera. 

There are plenty of reasons for this recommendation, but the four most important are outlined below.

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Features

Olympus OM D E M5 Mark II Features

Released in 2015, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II is an MFT (also called Micro Four Thirds or Micro 4/3rds) format camera with a 16MP sensor in a retro-style body that mimics the design of the classic 35mm SLR, the original Olympus OM series film cameras made from1972 to 2002.

Micro Four Thirds is considered a crop sensor format since it is physically smaller than the 35mm film equivalent format known as Full Frame. There is a crop factor of 2X when comparing lenses for MFT vs Full Frame format lenses.

One of the biggest pluses of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II for beginner photographers is the compact size and light weight of the camera and its lenses. Don’t let the small size fool you, this is professional-capable, high-quality gear.

Mid-Tier Prosumer Camera

Mid Tier Prosumer Camera

The hierarchy of the OM-D series of cameras is told by the number series. E-M1 cameras are considered the top-of-the-line full-fledged professional level, E-M5 cameras are considered intermediate by Olympus and can be used as prosumer-level cameras, E-M10 cameras are considered entry-level.

You’ve probably already noticed that the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II has been superseded by a newer model, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III of 2019 with a 20MP sensor.

Which is why the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II is a great beginner camera. Since you will be finding it as a used camera, a huge selling point for why you might choose this camera is the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II price.

If you shop for used photography gear at a reputable store with a warranty program and only selling gear they have checked out as excellent working condition, you could find yourself with a prosumer level camera for an entry-level price.

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Image Stabilization

 Image Stabilization

The built-in 5-axis image stabilization is one of the best features of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II camera. This allows you to use virtually any lens by means of the appropriate mount adapter and still have modern image stabilization.

This feature is also usable when filming in the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II video modes. The E-M5 Mark II records video in 1080p up to 60fps, for good quality video. It’s not 4K, but for casual videography, 1080p is very high quality.

Articulated Screen

where to buy an Olympus OM D E M5 Mark II

In addition to the very bright and sharp eye-level viewfinder (EVF), the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II has a fully articulated 3 inch viewscreen that also functions as a touch screen display for the camera menu.

Autofocus control is controllable from the viewscreen, giving you multiple options for videography or still photography. 

High-Resolution Mode

High Resolution Mode

The 16MP sensor can be turned into a higher resolution camera by accessing the High-Resolution mode of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II. 

Usable only for non-moving subjects, the high-resolution mode takes 8 exposures of the scene, moving the sensor slightly between captures, and then blends them together in-camera for an effective 4X increase in sensor resolution.

Image file sizes are up to 40MB for JPEGs and 100MB for RAW files. Since the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II physically moves the sensor between exposures, it’s really only usable for static subjects and tripod use is recommended.

Eye-Detection AF

Eye Detection AF

The Olympus single shot autofocus is super rapid and the focus sensors can be controlled in a predictive program that searches for faces and eyes, allowing for being able to capture sharply focused images of portrait subjects.

This automatic mode is switchable from left eye, to right eye, or closest eye, giving you some great control over your focus. You can also switch focus points yourself or use focus lock or back button focus.

Where to Buy

mpb

So now that you’re impressed with the fine camera as a great beginner camera with prosumer level features and ruggedness, you’re now wondering where to buy an Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II for yourself.

MPB is an online used camera store that is a great place to find good condition used photography gear. MPB inspects each item they buy or allow as a trade-in to be sure the item is in great workable condition, so they never sell a broken or substandard piece of gear.

MPB offers a generous refund policy and also has a 6-month warranty on the vast majority of their gear. Since used photography gear is all they do, they have really built up a fine reputation as a source for high-quality cameras and lenses at greatly reduced prices compared to brand new.

Another thing that makes MPB a good place to purchase used photography gear is their item condition ratings and descriptions. You can trust them as they show you exactly what’s going on with the camera or lens you're considering.

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II is a great beginner camera with awesome pro and prosumer level features and rugged build quality. Pair it with a great used MFT mount lens for a complete kit that will produce high quality images and allow you to grow as a photographer. 

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5 Features That Make the Olympus PEN-F a Fantastic Used Camera

Features That Make the Olympus PEN F a Fantastic Used Camera

If you are hunting for a cool, used camera, one of the hippest mirrorless cameras on the market is, without a doubt, the Olympus PEN-F. It was released in 2016 and is a digital replica of the original PEN-F 35mm film camera from 1963. This means it has the retro look and feel of a classic camera and all the convenient features of modern-day cameras that we have come to love.

One killer resource with tons of used Olympus PEN-F cameras in stock and a place I have bought and sold countless photo and video gear throughout the years is MPB. They are a trustworthy and reliable online platform that sells used photo and video kit at unbeatable prices. And if that wasn’t enough, they also sell tons of great used Olympus PEN-F lenses!

Now, let’s dive in and take a closer look at five features that make the Olympus PEN-F a fantastic used camera in 2023!

Check out the video above by DigitalRev TV to learn more about the Olympus PEN-F.

Table of Contents

The Excellent Ergonomics of the Olympus PEN-F Camera

Excellent Ergonomics of the Olympus PEN F Camera

For starters, the mirrorless Olympus PEN-F is tiny compared to most mirrorless cameras. Its compact, portable size makes it a terrific camera for traveling, everyday use, and everything in between! And while many smaller cameras receive complaints about their handling and ergonomics, that is not the case with the PEN-F.

In fact, two of my favorite things about this camera are how easy it is to shoot with and how good it feels in my hands. You can control all the buttons and dials with one hand, and plenty of customizable options exist. Also, I absolutely love the two control dials on top of the camera. They are ideal for manual shooting and drastically increase productivity and workflow speeds.

Here’s an in-depth look at the key features and specs of the Olympus PEN-F:

  • Camera Type: Mirrorless
  • Sensor: 20MP Four Thirds CMOS sensor
  • ISO: 200 - 25,600 (expandable to 80 - 25,600)
  • Lens Mount: Micro Four Thirds
  • Speed: 10.0 fps (20.0 fps when using the electronic shutter)
  • Autofocus: 81 contrast-detection points
  • Video: 1080p/60p, 1080p/30p, & 1080p/24p
  • Size/Weight: 125 x 72 x 37 mm / 427 grams
  • Battery Life: 330 shots
  • Stabilization: Yes
  • Touchscreen: Yes

The Impressive Image Quality of the Olympus PEN-F Camera

Image Quality of the Olympus PEN F Camera

The Olympus PEN-F produces stunning still photos thanks to its high-resolution, 20-megapixel Four Thirds image sensor. It’s the same resolution found in other premium Olympus mirrorless cameras, such as the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III and Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III. JPEG and RAW images are sharp, and the colors look fabulous straight from the camera. 

Another awesome feature of this camera is the electronic shutter. Switching to the electronic shutter enables you to enter silent shooting mode, which gives you extra privacy as a photographer. It’s ideal for situations where you don’t want to draw attention toward you, like wildlife and street photography. And best of all, there is no drop in image quality when shooting with the electronic shutter.

The In-Body Image Stabilization & Fully Articulated LCD of the Olympus PEN-F Camera

Image Stabilization Fully Articulated LCD of the Olympus PEN F Camera

The Olympus PEN-F is a highly capable video camera due to its 5-axis in-body image stabilization and fully-articulated rear screen. The IBIS increases video quality, especially during handheld recording, by significantly reducing camera shake. This makes it an excellent camera for on-the-go videographers. Also, the IBIS improves the low-light performance of the PEN-F. 

In addition, the fully-articulated rear LCD is super useful for vloggers and YouTubers who commonly record themselves. It makes it easy to center yourself in the frame, even when shooting selfie footage. The screen is 3-inches wide, has over one million dots, and is touch sensitive. 

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The Fun Creative Modes of the Olympus PEN-F Camera

Creative Modes of the Olympus PEN F Camera

Two cool new features of the Olympus PEN-F are the High-Res mode and 4K Timelapse mode. They are a lot of fun to play around with and provide tons of creative freedom when behind the camera. The high-resolution mode combines multiple frames into one image and produces either an 80MP RAW image or a 50MP JPEG. It is wonderful for capturing landscapes and cityscapes.

On the other hand, the 4K timelapse mode creates spectacular 4K videos. It is powered by a built-in intervalometer and can use both the mechanical and electronic shutter. Lastly, the PEN-F has pre-installed film, color, and art presets that allow you to create unique, unedited images.

The Unbeatable Price of the Olympus PEN-F Camera

Price of the Olympus PEN F Camera

If all that wasn’t enough, you can get your hands on a like-new Olympus PEN-F for under $900 on platforms like MPB. MPB rates the condition of all their photography products, so you will know exactly what to expect from your new gear before buying it.  

Furthermore, every camera at MPB is carefully hand-inspected by expert product specialists and backed by warranties, allowing you to make your purchases confidently and worry-free. One last brilliant feature of MPB is its online marketplace, where you can trade in and sell your old gear to help offset the cost of new-to-you photo and video equipment.

Final Thoughts on the Olympus PEN-F Camera

Thoughts on the Olympus PEN F Camera

Now that you know why the Olympus PEN-F is still a highly capable camera in 2023, what’s the hold-up? It’s time to hop over to MPB and get your hands on one of these amazing little cameras today!

And while you’re there, don’t forget to browse their outstanding selection of used Olympus PEN-F lenses. Here’s a short list of my favorite lenses for photo and video to pair with your new Olympus PEN-F camera:

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5 Reasons Why the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is the Best Micro Four Thirds Camera for 2024

5 Reasons Why the Olympus OM D E M1 Mark III is the Best Micro Four Thirds Camera for 2024

Micro Four Thirds (MFT) camera systems have long been famous for their small, portable size and excellent performance. And while you can see fantastic results with all micro four thirds cameras, we feel that one in particular has separated itself from the others– the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III.  

Below, we’ll share five reasons why the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is the best micro four thirds camera for 2024. Its strengths include its powerful photo and video capabilities, outstanding lens compatibility, and more. Additionally, thanks to innovative online platforms like MPB, buying a used MFT camera has never been cheaper and easier than it is today.

Who is MPB? It is a trustworthy and reliable online platform selling pre-owned photography and videography gear at unbeatable prices. Better yet, all of its cameras and lenses are carefully hand-inspected by knowledgeable product specialists with years of experience and backed by six-month warranties, allowing you to make your purchases confidently and worry-free.

We are huge supporters of MPB because, over the years, we’ve saved thousands of dollars buying, selling, and trading equipment on their one-of-a-kind online marketplace. If you are considering upgrading your camera kit and want to save money, visit their website today. Now, continue reading to discover if the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III suits you and your needs! 

Check out the video above by Robin Wong to learn more about this best micro four thirds camera. Alternatively, visit our full Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III review.

Table of Contents

The Image Sensor and Processor of This Best Micro Four Thirds Camera

Image Sensor and Processor of Olympus OM D E M1 Mark III

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is a mirrorless camera that came out in 2020, replacing the E-M1 Mark II. Its environmentally-sealed body is built around a 20.4-megapixel four thirds sensor and a TruePic IX image processor. The pair delivers high-resolution photos and videos with fantastic sharpness and enhances the camera's speed. 

One area where this speed is immediately noticeable is in the camera's autofocus (AF). Advanced AF modes include face/eye detection (for portrait photography), subject tracking (for action photography), and Starry Sky (for astrophotography). Moreover, the AF uses machine learning to constantly improve the AF performance. 

Now, here’s an in-depth look at the key features and specs of this Best Micro Four Thirds Camera: 

  • Camera Type: Mirrorless
  • Sensor: 20.4MP Live MOS Four Thirds CMOS Sensor
  • ISO: 200 - 25,600 (expandable to 64 - 25,600)
  • Lens Mount: Micro Four Thirds Mount
  • Speed: 60.0 fps
  • Autofocus: 121 focus points
  • Video: 4K/30p & 1080p/60p
  • Size/Weight: 134 x 91 x 69 mm / 580 grams
  • Battery Life: 420 shots
  • Stabilization: Yes
  • Touchscreen: Yes
  • Weather-Sealed: Yes
  • Used Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III Price: $754 - $909

The Continuous Shooting of This Best Micro Four Thirds Camera

Continuous Shooting of Olympus OM D E M1 Mark III

The speed is also extremely apparent during continuous burst shooting. When working with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III’s electronic shutter, it can shoot 60 frames per second (fps) using single-shot AF and 18 fps using continuous AF. At 60 fps, the buffer is 50 RAW frames; at 18 fps, it’s 90 RAW frames. 

If you prefer using the camera’s mechanical shutter, you can capture up to 101 RAW frames at a maximum continuous shooting speed of 15 fps. These impressive numbers make the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III the best micro four thirds camera for action, sports, and wildlife photography. 

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The 4K Video of This Best Micro Four Thirds Camera

4K Video of Olympus OM D E M1 Mark III

When you switch the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III to video mode, the first spec that jumps out is its 4K video capabilities. It can record both UHD (3840 x 2160) and DCI (4096 x 2160) 4K. UHD footage tops out at 4K/30p and DCI footage at 4K/24p. Furthermore, the video dynamic range is boosted thanks to the camera’s OM-Log professional video format. OM-Log gives you more control when filming and makes color correcting easier during post-production.

This best micro four thirds camera also has 1080p/60p and 720p/60p frame rates. Other highlight-worthy video features include a fully articulated LCD, a time-lapse mode, dual memory card slots, and various useful audio controls. Its overall video package makes the E-M1 Mark III a great camera for entry-level and enthusiast YouTubers and vloggers.

The Image Stabilization of This Best Micro Four Thirds Camera

Image Stabilization of Olympus OM D E M1 Mark III

Another thing we love about the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is the all-new in-body image stabilization (IBIS). Because of their smaller size, most micro four thirds cameras omit IBIS, but there are so many advantages of having it. For starters, it significantly improves low-light performance. 

On top of that, it reduces camera shake, leading to smoother and steadier handheld videos. The IBIS of this best micro four thirds camera adds up to seven stops of exposure to photos and videos (7.5 stops when paired with a lens with optical image stabilization).

The Lens Compatibility of This Best Micro Four Thirds Camera

Lens Compatibility of Olympus OM D E M1 Mark III

Lastly, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III uses the micro four thirds lens mount. It boasts hundreds of native lenses to choose from, including telephoto lenses, wide-angle lenses, prime lenses, zoom lenses, and macro lenses. Good lens adaptors are also available for people who want to use non-native lenses.

Here’s a quick list of some of the best Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III lenses for photo and video to pair with this best micro four thirds camera.

Final Thoughts on Micro Four Thirds Cameras

Final Thoughts on Olympus OM D E M1 Mark III

There you are, five reasons why the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is the best micro four thirds camera for 2024! While no doubt everyone would benefit from working with it, it's especially ideal for hybrid content creators due to its wonderful combination of photo/video features. 

Do you want to compare the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III against other micro four thirds cameras before making a final decision? Check out the list below of popular Olympus and Panasonic cameras on sale now at MPB

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APS-C vs MFT: Which Camera System is Best for You?

APS C vs MFT Which Camera System is Best for You

Are you moving up from serious smartphone photography into the world of interchangeable lens cameras? Or did you use to shoot with film cameras and have decided to jump back into photography with digital cameras?

Either way, welcome! You will enjoy everything about serious photography with interchangeable lens digital cameras. 

No, all you have to do is choose what type and camera format to use. Mirrorless vs DSLR and APS-C vs. MFT are two decisions we can help you decide. I’ll also show you how to save lots of money setting up your camera outfit by shopping on the pre-owned market at the online platform MPB.

MPB is my favorite store for buying, selling, and trading used photography equipment. They provide six-month warranties on the gear they sell, and the item descriptions are wonderfully accurate. It’s the best way to save money on cameras, lenses, and important photography accessories.  

More on that in a moment. First, we’ll examine the differences between APS-C vs MFT camera systems and what it means to be a DSLR or mirrorless. I’ll also show you good examples of these great formats I found at MPB.

Table of Contents:

APS-C vs MFT - What Is APS-C?

APS C vs MFT What Is APS C

Looking at the camera formats for serious digital photography can be a little confusing at first, but it’s really simple to understand once you see the formats explained. Describing APS-C vs MFT, let’s take APS-C first. 

What is the APS-C format? APS-C was a film format that didn’t quite catch on before digital photography pretty much-eclipsed film. It was based on the 35mm film format standards, just smaller. It keeps the same aspect ratio of 3:2 and has become one of the leading digital photography formats for serious amateurs and pros.

Since the format is smaller than the Full Frame (35mm) format, cameras can be made smaller, lighter, and less expensive than Full Frame cameras. If you are coming to digital from a 35mm film photography background, a crop factor of 1.5X applies to how lens focal lengths compare to 35mm.

Of the three most used digital photography formats (APS-C vs MFT vs Full Frame), APS-C format cameras and lenses seem to be the least expensive route, especially with DSLR cameras.

APS-C vs MFT - What Is MFT?

APS C vs MFT What Is MFT

MFT stands for Micro Four Thirds, also seen listed as Micro 4/3rds. It is an evolution of the original 4/3rds (Four Thirds) digital format created by Olympus and Kodak. It was designed as a smaller digital format that could still supply high-quality professional results. 

The difference between 4/3rds and Micro 4/rds (MFT) is that 4/3rds cameras were DSLR designs, while all MFT cameras are mirrorless camera systems. This allows for even smaller cameras than the original 4/3rds systems. All MFT cameras have the same lens mount.

The format has an aspect ratio of 4:3 and a lens crop factor of 2.0X compared to the Full Frame format. The sensor size was loosely based on a pre-existing video camera format, which is why this aspect ratio differs from the Full Frame and APS-C formats. 

Comparing APS-C vs MFT formats, we find many MFT cameras are designed a step or two above entry level, with more advanced and professionally capable cameras filling this niche. As such, many MFT cameras may cost more than APS-C format cameras.  

We also find that many MFT cameras have extremely capable video modes when considering APS-C vs MFT systems. In fact, MFT is one of the primary formats for serious videography.

DSLR vs Mirrorless - One Big Difference

DSLR vs Mirrorless One Big Difference

DSLR stands for Digital Single Lens Reflex, meaning cameras with this design have a mirror box and a pentaprism for viewing through the picture-taking lens. The mirror swings out of the way instantaneously to e exposures.

Mirrorless cameras have done away with the mirror and prism, using the sensor and advanced electronic visual displays for allowing through-the-lens (TTL) viewing. Cameras can be made smaller, lighter, and, in some cases, more durable by eliminating the mirror box.

Simon d’Entremont has a fantastic YouTube video on his channel that explains some of the differences in more detail; check it out here:

When shopping APS-C vs MFT, I find a good rule of thumb for pricing is that APS-C DSLR cameras can often be found for a lower price than MFT cameras, though the difference may be smaller the newer the cameras.

One large advantage to this rule of thumb is that you can often find higher-level cameras, advanced intermediate, prosumer, and even full-fledged pro-level cameras for remarkably low prices. In fact, for this discussion, I’m using more capable, prosumer-level cameras as examples to show you what you can find for upgrading or jumping into serious digital photography. 

If you’re already serious about digital photography or cut your teeth on film photography, you’ll want the better quality and increased features these cameras provide.

APS-C Camera Example - Nikon D7200

APS C Camera Example Nikon D7200

When deciding between APS-C vs MFT cameras, I looked for cameras that more serious amateurs would want - higher quality, more features, and other qualities allowing the camera user to utilize their existing skill and creativity fully.

Nikon has a knack for creating amazingly rugged and full-featured cameras in this advanced intermediate or prosumer level of cameras, the Nikon D7200 being among the best cameras at this level.

The Nikon D7200 has a 24.2 MP APS-C sensor and takes Nikon F-mount lenses. It is rugged enough and has advanced features that place it firmly in the prosumer category of cameras while still being fully usable by entry-level users. I found examples of this camera on the online platform MPB in Like New condition for the remarkably low price of $569.

Nikon AF S DX Nikkor 16 80mm

You’ll want to choose an upgrade from the standard kit lens to take full advantage of the high level of this camera. I found the superb Nikon AF-S DX Nikkor 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR normal range zoom lens in Excellent condition for $489, making this camera system right around the $1K mark.

MFT Camera Example - Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mk II

MFT Camera Example Olympus OM D E M1 Mk II

Olympus makes amazingly high-quality cameras, most of which are weather-sealed for added ruggedness and with full 4K video recording capability. Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II is what I chose to highlight for this APS-C vs MFT comparison.

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II is a 20.4 MP, weather-sealed, rugged, pro-level MFT format camera with comfortable ergonomics and controls that allow for entry-level and advanced photography. I found examples of this camera for $619 in Like New condition at MPB.

Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12 40mm

Pair this camera with the remarkable Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO normal range, weather sealed, professional level zoom lens, which I found for $614 in Like New condition at MPB for a fully capable rig to shoot still images or high-end videography. That makes this kit come out in the just over $1200 range, quite the steal for a pro-level camera system.

APS-C vs MFT Final Thoughts

APS C vs MFT Final Thoughts

The bottom line for me in this APS-C vs MFT camera discussion is that it’s hard to go wrong with your camera choice when you stick to top-level cameras and lenses from the manufacturers you know and love. 

Combine that thought with the fact that you can save money by purchasing used cameras and lenses with no worries by using the reputable online platform MPB with their six-month warranties and completely accurate condition reports, and you can move up into serious photography with reasonable prices and amazingly high-quality gear.

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Beginner Photography Primer: Types of Cameras Used for Photography

Types of Cameras Used for Photography

Photo by structuresxx via iStock

As you browse the web for learning more and more about photography, you have no doubt seen many types of cameras used for photography. 

There are so many options that you have to choose from, so we decided to make a primer covering what cameras are used for photography by beginners and intermediate photographers.

Even if you’ve already made your choice, this may help you understand some basic principles for your future growth as a photographer.

Format Options for Digital Photography

One of the concepts that I see many entry-level photographers struggle with is the types of formats that are available.

The three most popular digital formats of cameras used for photography from beginner through advanced levels are MFT, APS-C, and Full Frame.

MFT Format

Olympus OM D E M5 Mark II

Also known as Micro Four Thirds or Micro 4/3rds, MFT (like the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II shown above) is the smallest of the three formats and offers advantages and disadvantages. A major advantage is the small size and weight of cameras and lenses. 

A disadvantage is that since the actual pixels are small for any given resolution, their light-gathering ability is lower than comparable resolution cameras in larger formats. Other advanced features like image stabilization can offset that issue.

Many MFT cameras used for photography are also excellent cameras for high-quality video recording. In fact, many of the premier videography cameras are in this MFT format. The 4:3 aspect ratio of this format transfers over to video formats with little or no loss of quality.

APS-C Format

types of cameras used for photography sony a6300

APS-C format cameras (like the Sony a6300 shown above) that are used for photography actually predate digital photography, having been an alternate film format from 35mm or 135 format. It is one step down in size from Full Frame 35mm format and offers several advantages over the other two formats for entry-level photographers.

Advantages of the APS-C format are smaller size and lighter weight cameras and lenses compared to Full Frame, larger pixel size compared to MFT, and having some of the most budget-friendly cameras for beginners and intermediate level photographers. The 3:2 aspect ratio is the same as Full Frame cameras.

Disadvantages include the lower light gathering ability of sensors in the same resolution compared to Full Frame and few truly budget-friendly entry-level cameras have 4K video capability. 

4K video is a high-quality standard usable for extremely sharp videos to be viewed on larger devices such as a TV. Plus the 3:2 aspect ratio often requires some alteration to fit common video display formats.

Full Frame Format

canon eos 1dx

Full Frame format (like that in theCanon EOS 1DX shown above) is the exact same size as 35mm or 135 format film and is the largest of the three common digital formats of cameras used for photography.

Advantages are ultra-high-quality imaging and extreme low-light capability. Disadvantages are the increase of size, weight, and prices of cameras and lenses. Even with larger sizes and prices in mind, there are some excellent cameras in this format that beginners could consider.

As you read through other articles or chat forums discussing cameras used for photography, don’t let any camera snobbery or snide comments get you down about format and camera choices. All three of these options are excellent choices for photographers of all levels of expertise. 

DSLR and Mirrorless Cameras Used for Photography

dslr and mirrorless cameras used for photography

Photo by yanik88 via iStock

DSLR is an acronym for digital single lens reflex, meaning the cameras use a mirror and a prism to show you the view through the lens that will be captured on the sensor. Mirrorless cameras use the sensor and an electronic display to accomplish the same thing.

Both types of cameras have pros and cons. Most mirrorless cameras are smaller and lighter than DSLR cameras but they are often more expensive and use up battery charge faster. 

Also, even though mirrorless cameras are generally smaller, in Full Frame format the lenses are still going to be large. MFT and APS-C format mirrorless camera lenses can be rather small and lightweight, but are still usually more expensive than lenses for DSLR cameras.

Learn More:

Shop Used Cameras for Lower Prices

mpb

I’ve mentioned price concerns a few times already because it’s on the minds of pro photographers too, not simply beginners. One way to offset some of the monetary outlay of our pricey photography equipment is to shop used cameras and lenses.

Especially as a beginner, you will want to stick with reputable sources when looking for used photography cameras for sale. One of my most trusted sources that sell used photography equipment is MPB.

There are a plethora of reasons why I trust MPB so much. 

For starters, they offer a 6-month warranty on most items, return privileges in case an item isn’t what you expected, and I appreciate how they approach buying and selling used equipment.

Specifically, they rate these cameras and lenses based on their exhaustive inspection, ensuring you get exactly what you want - a great camera or lens at an awesome price. A lot of the used items in stock are currently in-production equipment or very recently introduced gear.

Cameras Used for Photography - Entry-Level

canon eos rebel t6i

Entry-level cameras should be easy to use and most beginners want a price that doesn’t stress a budget. Here are three I like that qualify on these counts. Two are APS-C format and  one is Full Frame.

  • Canon EOS Rebel T6i is a DSLR camera in the APS-C format that has a high-resolution 24.2mp sensor and uses Canon EF lenses for a huge variety of lens options. Beginners can pair it with the Canon EF-S 18-135mm IS STM lens for an extremely versatile beginner kit.
  • If mirrorless is your preference, look at the APS-C format Sony Alpha a6300 camera with a Sony 16-50 PZ lens for an ultra-compact, fully-capable beginner setup.
  • A Full Frame format camera that beginners will find both comfortable and affordable is the mirrorless Canon EOS R. It’s lightweight, full-featured, Full Frame format, and records 4K video. Add the Canon RF 24-105mm lens for a compact and affordable system.

Cameras Used for Photography - Intermediate

fuji xt20 cameras used for photography

An APS-C mirrorless choice is theFujifilm X-T20 with18-55mm f/2.8-4.0 LM OIS lens that has a high-resolution sensor and fast aperture lens.

If DSLR is more your preference, it’s hard to beat the APS-C format Nikon D7100 with the high-performance Nikon 18-140mm DX lens for features, quality, and affordability. You can find almost the same exact camera but in Full Frame format, the Nikon D750 and Nikon 24-120mm zoom lens.

A mirrorless Full Frame prosumer or intermediate level camera such as the Sony Alpha a7R III has a 42.4mp Full Frame sensor and professional level build. It goes well with an all-around zoom lens such as the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DN Art lens.

MFT cameras make excellent prosumer-level cameras. Options such as the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mk II camera and fast zoom Olympus 12-40mm f/2.8 Pro lens are ideal.

Cameras Used for Photography - Advanced and Professional

nikon d4s

Advanced users or anyone wanting full-fledged professional build and the extra features added to pro-level cameras should look at the DSLR choices in Full Frame format such as the Nikon D4s and Canon EOS 1DX, or the mirrorless Full Frame Nikon Z6, Panasonic DC-S1R, or Sony Alpha a9 II

For the other formats, in APS-C, look at the Nikon D500, Fujifilm X-T4, and Canon EOS 90D. MFT format pro cameras include the Olympus OM-D E-M1X and Panasonic DMC-GH5S which is also a super high-quality videography camera. 

Cameras Used for Photography and Videography

panasonic gh5s

If video is your primary love, then in addition to the Panasonic GH4 and GH5 series of MFT cameras which have become virtually industry standards for videography, you should also take a good hard look at the Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema 4K camera with MFT mount.

As you can see, you have a lot of fine options to choose from when shopping for the types of cameras used for photography. All of the options on this short list will be excellent as your first camera or as an upgrade from whatever you’re currently using.

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Best Camera of 2022 for Beginners, Enthusiasts, and Pros

best camera of 2022

Photo by Cecilie_Arcurs via iStock

What is the best camera of 2022? Well, that's a complicated question...

The best camera for me might not be the best camera for you. It depends on many factors like your skill level, your needs in terms of specs and features, and your budget, to name a few.

So the answer to our question is that it depends!

What we've done, though, is compile a list of cameras for beginners, enthusiasts, and professionals. For each category, we've included multiple cameras, each with detailed information about specs and features, as well as details about the pros and cons of each camera.

In other words, this is a one-stop-shop for you to find the best camera to fit your current situation!

Table of Contents

Best Camera for Beginners

best beginner camera

Photo by andresr via iStock

If you're a new photographer and you've outgrown the capabilities of your smartphone or existing DSLR or mirrorless camera, the options listed below give you loads of features without breaking your budget.

What's more, these cameras have enough in the way of specs that you can grow as a photographer in the coming years without necessarily needing to invest in a more robust camera.

Additionally, while this list includes options for the best camera for photography, each beginner camera also offers decent video features. It's the best of both worlds!

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Olympus OM D E M10 Mark IV Review

Specs and Features

  • 20MP Micro Four Thirds Live MOS sensor
  • TruePic VIII processor
  • 121-point Contrast Detection AF system
  • EVF with 2.36m-dots 
  • 3” tiltable touchscreen with 1.03m-dots 
  • 15fps burst mode
  • 4K video at 30p, 25p, and 24p; Full HD video at 60p, 50p, IPB
  • Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth
  • Approximately 360-shot battery life

Pros and Cons

  • Pros
    • Fantastic sensor
    • Image stabilization
    • Compact size
  • Cons
    • Good video capabilities
    • No microphone port
    • No USB-C

Olympus OM D E M10 Mark IV Body Design 1

If you want a small, highly capable mirrorless camera that is compatible with hundreds of affordable lenses, the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is right up your alley.

Though it's a beginner camera, you get some nice features headlined by a fantastic 20.3-megapixel micro four thirds sensor. The TruePic VIII processor makes it a speedy camera as well, offering up to 15fps burst shooting speed.

The camera's flip-down touchscreen is a nice touch for capturing low-angle shots while the image stabilization will help you create tack-sharp images, even when you're holding the camera.

There's no microphone or USB-C ports, and the autofocus isn't the best in this class. However, this camera is loaded with other features, has great ergonomics, and with all those available lenses, you can really build an impressive kit that can grow with you as you gain skills. It's certainly an option for the best camera of 2022!

Learn more in our Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV review.

Sony A6000

sony a6000

Specs and Features

  • 24.3-megapixel CMOS APS-C sensor
  • Bionz X image processor
  • Hybrid autofocus system with 179 phase-detect and 25 contrast-detect AF Points
  • 1.44-million dot OLED electronic viewfinder
  • 3-inch tilting LCD with 921.6K dots
  • 11 fps continuous shooting
  • 1080p HD video at 24p and 60p
  • Built-in NFC and WiFi
  • Approximately 300-shot battery life

Pros and Cons

  • Pros
    • Excellent autofocus system
    • Huge selection of lenses
    • Small and lightweight
  • Cons
    • Old model
    • No 4K video
    • OLED EVF resolution isn't up to par

sony a6000 back

Debuting in 2014, the Sony a6000 isn't exactly a new camera. However, it's still one of the top choices for best camera for beginners because it offers excellent features at a great price point (given its age, you can often find it at steep discounts).

Sure, you don't get 4K video, but if you're more focused on stills, you can reap the benefits of a robust 24.3-megapixel sensor, a fast and accurate autofocus system, and 11fps continuous shooting. Additionally, Sony has a huge selection of images for cameras in this range, so you can outfit your a6000 with any lens you could possibly want.

Fujifilm X-T200

  • ​​Specs and Features
  • 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor
  • New image processing engine
  • 425-point Phase Detection AF system
  • EVF with 2.36m-dots 
  • 3.5” fully-articulated touchscreen with 2.78m-dots 
  • 8fps burst mode
  • 4K video at 30p, 25p, and 24p; Full HD video at 120p, 60p, 50p, 25p, and 24p
  • Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth
  • Approximately 270-shot battery life

Pros and Cons

  • Pros
    • Big and bright display
    • Excellent uncropped 4K video
    • Digital gimbal stabilizes 1080p footage
  • Cons
    • No video subject tracking
    • Small buffer during continuous shooting
    • Small joystick

TheFujifilm X-T200 is an entry-level mirrorless camera ideal for hybrid photographers who shoot photos and videos. It was announced in January 2020 and replaced theFujifilm X-T100 as the company’s signature interchangeable lens camera for beginner photographers. 

It combines a 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor with an upgraded image processor, and the pair delivers fantastic results in both photo and video modes. Moreover, the colors in JPEGs are bright, vibrant, and very pleasing to the eye. JPEGs look great straight out of the camera and are perfect for new photographers.

Also, thanks to a new hybrid autofocus system capturing sharp, in-focus images has never been easier. The AF works during photo and video modes, and the face/eye-detection setting is phenomenal for portraits and videos. Manual autofocus is also available for people interested in learning how to use it. 

A few more noteworthy features of the Fujifilm X-T200 include a giant fully-articulating touchscreen display, intuitive menus, and uncropped 4K video. The high-resolution video and articulating screen, in particular, make it an excellent camera for beginner YouTubers and filmmakers. 

Learn more in our Fujifilm X-T200 review.

Sony ZV-1

​​Specs and Features

  • 20.1MP 1” Exmor RS BSI CMOS sensor
  • Bionz X image processor
  • 315-point Phase Detection AF system
  • No viewfinder 
  • 3” fully-articulated touchscreen with 921,600-dots 
  • 24fps burst mode
  • 4K video at 30p, 25p, and 24p; Full HD video at 120p, 100p, 60p, 50p, 30p, and 24p
  • Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth
  • Approximately 260-shot battery life

Pros and Cons

  • Pros
    • Great for vlogging
    • Lightweight and portable design
    • Attractive price
  • Cons
    • No viewfinder
    • Weak battery life
    • Not weather-sealed

The Sony ZV-1 is an award-winning point-and-shoot camera specifically designed for vloggers, YouTubers, and influencers. It came out in May 2020 and has been flying off the shelves ever since. It has a 1-inch CMOS sensor and a powerful Bionz X image processing engine.

While it does take high-quality still images, video shooting is its bread and butter. It offers 4K video capture at frame rates of 30, 25, and 24 frames per second and has 1080p Full HD options. I recommend 30p for most people, but if you want a more cinematic look to your movies, you should opt for 24p.

More killer video features of the Sony ZV-1 are an in-camera 1080p/120p slow-motion mode, a fully-articulating touchscreen LCD, a strong battery life, and advanced audio controls. The audio controls include a port for an external microphone, a headphone jack, and a built-in directional microphone with a wind protector. 

If you like the look and feel of this camera but want an interchangeable lens camera instead, you should consider the Sony ZV-E10. It has a massive lineup of native Sony E Mount lenses and is like a newer version of the Sony Alpha a6100

Learn more in our Sony ZV-1 review.

Best Enthusiast Camera

Sony a7 IV

sony a7 iv best enthusiast camera

Specs and Features

  • 33-megapixel full frame EXMOR R back-illuminated CMOS sensor
  • Bionz XR image processor
  • Hybrid autofocus system with 759 phase-detect and 425 contrast-detect AF Points
  • 3.68-million dot EVF with 120fps refresh rate
  • 3-inch tilting LCD with 1.036 million dots
  • 10 fps continuous shooting
  • Up to 4K video at 60p with 7K oversampling at 4K 30p
  • Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth
  • 5-axis in-body image stabilization
  • Approximately 580-shot battery life

Pros and Cons

  • Pros
    • Amazing 33-megapixel back-illuminated sensor
    • Next-level autofocus
    • Exceptional EVF
  • Cons
    • Some menu options are very complex
    • 4K video is cropped
    • LCD resolution isn't that great

sony a7iv back

If you're an enthusiast photographer, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better all-around camera than the Sony a7 IV.

This Sony camera has a new 33-megapixel sensor that offers excellent imaging quality and good video performance, though 4K video is heavily cropped. As expected, the a7 IV has a killer autofocus system that is among the leaders in the industry.

This camera also has great battery life, which is estimated at 580 shots.

Of course, all these goodies come at a price. This is not a cheap camera, but with features like a Bionz XR processor, 10-bit video support, and a buffer that's hard to fill, you definitely get what you pay for. That's why we've ranked it as the best enthusiast camera of the year!

Canon EOS R6

canon eos r6

Specs and Features

  • 20.1MP full frame CMOS sensor
  • DIGIC X processor
  • 6,072 Dual Pixel CMOS AF II AF points
  • 0.5” OLED EVF with 100% coverage and 3.69k-dots
  • 3” fully articulating touchscreen
  • 12fps burst mode with mechanical shutter, 20fps burst mode with electronic shutter
  • 4K video capabilities at 60p, 50p, 30p, 25p and 24p
  • Built-in WiFi and built-in Bluetooth
  • 5-axis in-body image stabilization
  • Approximately 510-shot battery life

Pros and Cons

  • Pros
    • Superb autofocus system that's easy to set up
    • Great ergonomics
    • Full frame in-body image stabilization
  • Cons
    • Rolling shutter is an issue
    • Low sensor resolution compared to similar cameras

canon eos r6 back best enthusiast camera

Another great option for the best enthusiast mirrorless camera is the Canon EOS R6.

One of its biggest draws is that it offers similar capabilities as the Sony a7 IV, but with a smaller price tag. It's also a true hybrid camera, so if you want excellent photo and video performance, it's a solid choice - especially if you're already in the Canon ecosystem.

Aside from the breathtaking autofocus system, the EOS R6 offers top-of-the-line burst shooting, a 5-axis stabilization system, and is compatible with Canon's impressive and ever-growing lineup of RF lenses.

While it is a good performer on the video front, overheating limitations pose a bit of a problem. Rolling shutter is also an issue, and for some, the 20.1-megapixel resolution will be a turn-off. However, despite a few flaws, this is a fantastic option for enthusiast shooters.

Learn more in our Canon EOS R6 review.

Nikon Z6 II

​​Specs and Features

  • 24.5MP full-frame BSI-CMOS sensor
  • Dual Expeed 6 image processor
  • 273-point Phase Detection AF system
  • EVF with 3.69m-dots 
  • 3.2” tiltable touchscreen with 2.1m-dots 
  • 14fps burst mode
  • 4K video at 30p, 25p, and 24p; Full HD video at 60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, and 24p
  • Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth
  • Approximately 410-shot battery life

Pros and Cons

  • Pros
    • Terrific video and image quality
    • Two SD card slots
    • Excellent ergonomics
  • Cons
    • AF occasionally “hunts”
    • Highest quality video compressions require an external recorder
    • Intricate menu system

The Nikon Z6 II is a powerful hybrid mirrorless camera launched in October 2020 to much anticipation. It boasts a 24.5-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and two Expeed 6 image processors. The dual processors seriously increase the camera's speed and will improve your overall productivity when in the field. 

One fantastic feature of this camera is its autofocus. It covers approximately 90% of the camera's sensor, has 273 selectable focus points, and works equally well in video recording as it does during still shooting. Moreover, the subject tracking in C-AF is superb and is ideal for portrait and wildlife photographers who shoot moving subjects.

On top of that, its low-light performance is far superior to the original Nikon Z6. This improvement is due to the camera’s 5-axis image stabilization technology and wide ISO range. Low-light autofocus is also much more accurate and responsive than its predecessor.

More awesome features of the Z6 II are its fast continuous shooting, dual memory card slots, and a vertical video mode. The 14fps max continuous shooting makes it an excellent camera for sports and action photography. And the vertical video mode is useful for creating content for social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. 

Learn more in our Nikon Z6 II review.

Panasonic Lumix S5

​​Specs and Features

  • 24.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor
  • Venus Engine image processor
  • 225-point Depth from Defocus AF system
  • EVF with 2.36m-dots 
  • 3” fully-articulated touchscreen with 1.84m-dots 
  • 7fps burst mode
  • 4K video at 60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, and 24p; Full HD video at 60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, and 24p
  • Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth
  • Approximately 440-shot battery life

Pros and Cons

  • Pros
    • Great in-body image stabilization
    • Unique creative photo modes
    • Dual memory card slots
  • Cons
    • 30-minute video recording limit
    • Slow burst shooting
    • Awkwardly located AF-On button

The Panasonic Lumix S5 is an advanced yet affordable mirrorless camera that debuted in September 2020. It has the same 24.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and Venus Engine image processor as its cousin, the Panasonic S1, but is significantly smaller and less expensive.

It is aimed at both photographers and videographers, and new and improved features help to improve the quality of both photos and videos. For starters, it has several unique photo modes, such as the 96MP multi-shot mode. This mode captures multiple frames and compiles them together into one ultra-high-resolution image.

Alternatively, videographers and filmmakers love the video quality of the oversampled 4K/30p footage. Thanks to in-camera image stabilization, it has terrific sharpness and very little camera shake. Also, you can capture 4K/60p clips with this camera. They are ideal for slowing down in post-production and playing back in slow-motion.

Two more great features of the Panasonic Lumix S5 are its weather-sealed body and long-lasting battery. One group, in particular, who loves working with this camera is event photographers. It’s perfect for weddings, concerts, and more!   

Learn more in our Panasonic S5 review.

Best Camera for Professional Photography

Nikon Z9

Nikon Z9 Front

Specs and Features

  • 45.7-megapixel full frame stacked CMOS sensor
  • EXPEED 7 image processor
  • 493 phase-detect autofocus points
  • 3.69M dot OLED EVF with reduced lag and greater brightness
  • 2.1M dot rear LCD with multi-directional tilt
  • 30 fps JPEG shooting
  • 20 fps Raw shooting (for over 1000 compressed Raws)
  • 120 fps JPEG shooting at 11MP resolution
  • 8K/30p capture and 4K/60p-from-8K, with ProRes 422 HQ option
  • 8K/60p in 12-bit N-Raw with 4.1K ProRes RAW option
  • Internal 10-bit N-Log and HLG capture
  • 5-axis sensor shift in-body image stabilization
  • Twin CFexpress Type B card slots
  • Approximately 700-770-shot battery life

Pros and Cons

  • Pros
    • Excellent high-resolution sensor
    • 120fps continuous shooting
    • 8K video at 60p
  • Cons
    • Absolutely enormous body
    • Paltry lens options compared to rival Sony and Canon models
    • Rear LCD isn't fully articulating

Nikon Z9 back

While it took a while for the Nikon Z9 to debut, it has certainly made a splash in terms of its photography and video capabilities.

Since there's no mechanical shutter, you get up to 120fps continuous shooting, which, along with the 1/32,000 top shutter speed makes this the ideal choice for sports and wildlife photographers.

But this isn't just the best professional camera for those reasons - it has an incredible autofocus system that's powered by Deep Learning AF. This means the Z9 has unsurpassed autofocus capabilities, and can recognize everything from human eyes and faces to cars, motorcycles, and animal features.

On top of that, the Z9 offers 8K 60p video. It's also capable of 8K 30p video with a two-hour time limit.

It's also the cheapest of the three flagship professional cameras - the Canon EOS R3 and Sony a1 being the other two.

Canon EOS R3

Canon EOS R3 Front

Specs and Features

  • 24.1-megapixel full frame stacked CMOS sensor
  • Digic X image processor
  • 4,779-point autofocus system (3,969 points for videos)
  • 0.5-inch EVF with 5.76-million dots
  • 4.15-million dot 3.2-inch vari-angle touchscreen
  • 12fps burst shooting (mechanical shutter), 30fps burst shooting (electronic shutter)
  • 6K up to 60p, 4K up to 120p, 1080p up to 60p
  • 5-axis in-body image stabilization (up to 8 stops with certain lenses)
  • 1 SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot and 1 CFexpress Type B card slot
  • Approximately 620-shot battery life

Pros and Cons

  • Pros
    • Excellent video capabilities
    • Superb autofocus
    • No blackout
  • Cons
    • Low resolution compared to competitors
    • No 8K video

Canon EOS R3 back

Another pick for the best professional camera for photography is the Canon EOS R3

If it looks like a 1D X Mark III, you wouldn't be far off. This is a big camera, but it has the modern functionalities of a high-end mirrorless camera.

While the 24.1-megapixel sensor resolution seems paltry compared to other options at this price point, its stacked design gives you plenty of firepower. In fact, the EOS R3 is capable of 30fps burst shooting in RAW.

Complementing the lightning-quick burst shooting is the autofocus system, which is capable of eye control - just look at the AF point you want and the camera will select it.

Sure, the R3 doesn't have 8K video, but it does offer up to 6K at 60p with internal recording. But, this is not intended to be a video camera - it is a photo-first rig, and it shows. That's why it's on our list for the best camera for photography!

Sony a1

​​Specs and Features

  • 50MP full-frame stacked CMOS sensor
  • Dual Bionz XR image processor
  • 759-point Phase Detection AF system
  • EVF with 9.44m-dots 
  • 3” tiltable touchscreen with 1.44m-dots 
  • 30fps burst mode
  • 8K video at 30p, 25p, and 24p;4K video at 120p, 100p, 60p, 50p, 30p, and 24p; Full HD video at 120p, 100p, 60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, and 24p
  • Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth
  • Approximately 530-shot battery life

Pros and Cons

  • Pros
    • Exquisite 6K video
    • Best-in-class AF
    • Super-fast continuous shooting
  • Cons
    • Expensive
    • EVF resolution drops slightly when using C-AF
    • Top burst shooting speeds only work with some lenses

The Sony Alpha 1 was released in March 2021 and is the most powerful Sony digital camera ever. It is their flagship product and boasts a 50-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and dual Bionz XR image processing engines. The trio works together seamlessly and delivers jaw-dropping results.

For photographers, the 50MP image sensor can take pictures with a max resolution of 8640 x 5760 pixels. That is absolutely gigantic and means that your photos will never suffer a drop-off in image quality, even when enlarged for magazines, posters, or billboards. Furthermore, the 30 fps continuous shooting makes the a1 a great camera for sports, wildlife, and adventure photography.

As a video camera, the standout feature is the 8K video. And while the file sizes of these clips are huge, the quality is off-the-charts. Luckily, the camera also has two memory card slots so that you can record more footage. AF tracking during video recording is also industry-leading.

Lastly, this camera has many professional connection ports, including inputs for a full-size HDMI, a microphone, headphones, and more! 

Learn more in our Sony a1 review.

Canon EOS R5

best camera of 2022 canon eos r5

​​Specs and Features

  • 45MP full-frame CMOS sensor
  • Digic X image processor
  • 5,940-point Dual-Pixel II AF system
  • EVF with 2.36m-dots 
  • 3.2” fully-articulated touchscreen with 2.1m-dots 
  • 20fps burst mode
  • 4K video at 30p and 24p;4K video at 120p, 60p, 30p, and 24p
  • Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth
  • Approximately 320-shot battery life

Pros and Cons

  • Pros
    • 8K video and Canon EOS Cinema features
    • Outstanding AF performance
    • Amazing in-body image stabilization
  • Cons
    • Occasional overheating during extended high-resolution video recording
    • You can turn off the noise reduction in RAW files
    • Limited customization

canon eos r5

Another excellent camera for professionals is the Canon EOS R5. It’s Canon's flagship mirrorless camera for consumers and a direct competitor of the Sony a1. Canon launched it in July 2020, and it has a high-resolution 45-megapixel full-frame sensor and a Digic X image processor.

My favorite thing about this camera is its two unique operating systems—one for photography and one for video shooting. Moreover, the EOS R5 has a nifty new toggle switch that allows you to quickly and easily switch between the two. Also, you can customize the buttons and settings of the two operating systems independently.

The camera functions like a Canon EOS cinema camera in video mode. This means you have tons of professional features such as 8K video, 4K/120p slow-motion video, and advanced codecs. RAW, 10-bit, C-log, and HDR PQ are only a few of the compression formats. 

One last amazing feature of the EOS R5 is the Dual Pixel autofocus. It covers 100% of the full-frame sensor and has excellent subject tracking technology. It can even locate and track the faces and eyes of animals! 

Learn more in our Canon EOS R5 review.



We Recommend


Best Cameras for Beginners 2021

Best Cameras for Beginners 2020

Photo by Pablo Guerrero on Unsplash

If you, like me, are going crazy sitting at home then maybe it’s time to take up a new hobby. And if you, like me, love photography then maybe you need a new camera to help you start practicing that new hobby. 

Thankfully, it’s 2021, which means there are plenty of inexpensive cameras available for beginners that still have all of the features you could ever need.  

So, I’ve compiled a list of the “best cameras for beginners 2021,” which features the best cheap DSLRS and the best cheap mirrorless cameras that have the newest features. There’s no need to break the bank if you’re just starting out.  

Sony a6000

best cameras for beginners 1

I’ve written about the Sony a6000 plenty of times before because I genuinely think it is one of the best cameras for beginners… so much so that I’m placing it as my number one choice on my “best cameras for beginners 2021” article.  

The Sony a6000 is just over 6 years old, which means it’s one of the most inexpensive cameras on our list, but it still features a 24.3MP sensor and compatibility with a huge range of Sony lenses.  

It’s one of the best DSLRs for beginners because it does lack some features many cameras in 2021 come with, like 4K video, but it comes with a built-in electronic viewfinder and a tilting screen so you can get used to the feel of a Sony. 

If you’re shopping for inexpensive cameras, like the Sony a6000, then you should be doing so on Adorama. You can find the Sony a6000 for $550 there. 

Recommended Photography Reading

 

Nikon D3500 

top cameras for beginners 2 

I tried to choose a wide range of manufacturers for this “best cameras for beginners 2021” list since I know some people really prefer the feel of a camera their parents used to use way back when. However, I would have included the Nikon D3500 on this list regardless because it is dirt cheap.

The Nikon D3500 is the best entry-level DSLR on this list because of its user-friendly layout. So, if you’ve never shot with a DSLR before, or if you’re trying to transition to Nikon from another brand, you won’t have any trouble figuring this camera out. 

The Nikon D3500 comes with a “Guide” shooting mode that essentially walks you through how to use the camera. 

Plus, the image quality on this camera is sharp. 

You can purchase this best entry-level DSLR, with a nice NIKKOR lens, for $400. 

Canon SL3

best dslrs for beginners 3

If you’re a photographer looking to break into videography, then this is the best entry-level DSLR for you because it is the first budget DSLR that can shoot 4K.

It also features a 3.5-mm microphone jack so you can capture better audio. 

The screen is fully articulated and the camera feels balanced despite the fact that it weighs under 1 lb. 

However, my favorite thing about The Canon SL3 is that, unlike some of the other cameras on this “best cameras for beginners 2021” list, it features an incredible battery life of 1,550 shots. 

The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is available on Adorama for $550.  

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III

best mirrorless cameras for beginners 4

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is the first best entry-level mirrorless camera on our list. You’ll love its retro look and feel, its tilting touchscreen and its electronic viewfinder with a resolution high enough to compete with a camera of a much higher price point.

It shoots 4K video and 8.6fps in burst mode, making it one of the most versatile of our inexpensive cameras. 

It also features in-body image stabilization. 

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 MARK III is currently on sale for $450. 

Nikon D5600

beginner cameras 5

The Nikon D5600 is one of our top cameras for beginners if you suspect you’re going to stick with photography, because this camera will allow you to grow with it. 

It comes with an advanced autofocus system and can shoot in low-light scenarios.  

Unlike the Nikon D3500, there is no interactive “Guide” mode, so again, this DSLR may be better for beginners who are at least a little tech-savvy. 

It can’t shoot 4K video, but it does shoot Full HD video, and you can shoot that video on a 3.2” vari-angle touchscreen, which is better than most of the other LCDs on this “best cameras for beginners 2021” list.  

The Nikon D5600 is available for $600 right now.  

Panasonic Lumix GX85

best cameras of 2020 6

This is another option for beginner photographers who may want to start getting into videography.

The Panasonic Lumix GX85 is the best entry-level mirrorless camera for videographers due to its 4K shooting capabilities, its impressive 2.76M-dot electronic viewfinder, and its in-body image stabilization. 

The one thing I don’t love about this camera is that it doesn’t feature microphone or headphone inputs, so ideally you would be using this mirrorless camera to shoot video in a quieter space, like your office instead of a crowded subway. However, it also isn’t weather-sealed, so you’d ideally not be traveling with it a lot anyways. 

This camera isn’t just for videographers, though, because it shoots impressive photographs, can take 6fps in burst mode with AF, and weighs under 1 lb, so you can lug it around with you all day comfortably.  

The Panasonic Lumix GX85 is currently half off on Adorama for $500. 

Canon EOS Rebel T7i

best entry level cameras 7

Canon’s EOS Rebel range has basically had the market for the best DSLRs for beginners for years now, and the T7i is no different.

This camera comes with a 24MP sensor, built-in Wi-Fi and can shoot Full HD video. 

But, what really draws people to the Canon EOS Rebel line is the fact that the Auto mode is the best around. You can basically set the camera to Auto and it’ll perform excellently by itself. You can also use the rear screen to take all of your photos like you would with a smartphone and its performance remains the same. 

While this isn’t the cheapest camera on our “best cameras for beginners 2021” list, it is the best option for an older photographer who mostly wants to point and shoot and we think it’s worth the extra money. 

You can purchase a Canon EOS Rebel t7i for $700. 

Fujifilm X-T200

best entry level mirrorless 8

When shopping for the best mirrorless cameras for beginners, everyone starts with the Fujifilm X-T200.  

It shoots 4K video, features a pretty large 3.5” vari-angle touchscreen, and will also allow you to grow with the camera, so you won’t need to upgrade for quite a few years. 

This Fujifilm also dropped in February, so since most cameras have been cancelled or postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic, this may be one of the all-time best cameras for beginners 2021.  

The Fujifilm X-T200 is available for $700. 

Pentax K-70

best entry level dslr

Due to the fact that Pentax isn’t as large as Canon or Sony, I don’t regularly get to write about Pentax cameras, but Pentax made the Pentax K-70 one of the best cameras for beginners 2021 due to its cheap price, its “Shake Reduction” in-body image stabilization, and its impressive 24MP sensor.  

The Pentax K-70 also has an ISO range of 100-102,400, which is definitely the best low-light shooting of any of our other top cameras for beginners. 

A good way to look at the Pentax K-70 is as an almost complete opposite to the Sony a6000, because the Pentax K-70 will allow you to grow with the camera and learn about manually adjusting autofocus settings whereas the Sony a6000 is truly for absolute beginners. 

You can buy the Pentax K-70 for $650.

Nikon Z50

best cheap cameras 9 

The Nikon Z50 is one of the best entry-level mirrorless cameras because Nikon specifically designed it for people who don’t consider themselves photographers. 

But, it still creates incredible photos. It can shoot 4K video, features a tiltable touchscreen, and can shoot 11fps in burst mode. 

Since the Nikon Z50 is one of the best cameras for beginners 2021, it is currently more expensive because it just came out. However, we suspect that with the incoming economic recession, this camera will be much cheaper in just a few months time. 

The Nikon Z50 is the most expensive of our best cameras for beginners at $850. 



We Recommend


Best Digital Camera for Beginners Under $100

Best Digital Camera for Beginners Under 100

 photo bywundervisuals via iStock

Interested in improving your photography skills and want to invest in a “real camera” but have no idea where to start? You’ve come to the right place!  

This article elaborates on four of the best digital cameras for beginners under $100. They are all terrific cameras to learn on without spending a fortune. Additionally, I provide a list of bonus cameras to consider at the end of the article. 

As wonderful as all these cameras are, please keep in mind that the cameras I recommend below are all older, used cameras. None of them feature the newest camera technology, but when you are a beginner, you don’t need the biggest, baddest camera to learn how to take amazing photos. 

One resource I like to recommend for camera gear is MPB. They are an online camera platform with tons of camera options and unbeatable prices. Furthermore, they have superb deals on used lenses to pair with your camera.

With that said, let’s look at the best digital cameras for beginners under $100! 

Table of Contents

Best Canon Digital Camera for Beginners Under $100

Canon EOS Rebel T3

The Canon EOS Rebel T3 is a fantastic DSLR first released in 2011. It’s one of many cameras in Canon’s ever-popular entry-level “Rebel” lineup, the newest being the Canon EOS Rebel T8i

Featuring a 12.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor, this camera still has a place in the world of photography and provides incredible value to beginner photographers. It shoots RAW and JPEG stills and has five distinct file sizes (large, medium, small 1, small 2, and small 3). Alternatively, you can select to shoot both RAW and JPEG copies with one click of a button!

Canon EOS Rebel T3 2

An important thing to note is that, like all Canon APS-C cameras, it applies a crop factor of 1.6x. For example, using a Canon 50 mm lens, you will instead have the equivalent focal length of 80 mm on the Rebel T3.

Speaking of lenses, they are arguably the strongest selling point of this best digital camera for beginners under $100. The Rebel T3 uses the Canon EF lens mount, which is absolutely loaded with great lenses. Finding cheap used Canon lenses to pair with this camera is a walk in the park at online platforms like MPB

Canon EOS Rebel T3 3

A few more things to keep in mind are that it has video capabilities, good but not great autofocus, and easy-to-use straightforward controls. Check out the list below of the key features and specs of the Canon EOS Rebel T3. 

  • Camera Type: DSLR
  • Megapixels: 12.2MP
  • Sensor Type: APS-C
  • Lens Mount: Canon EF / EF-S
  • ISO: 100 - 6400
  • Speed: 3 fps
  • AF Points: 9
  • Video: 720p/30p

Best Nikon Digital Camera for Beginners Under $100

Nikon D40X

Another one of the best digital cameras for beginners under $100 is the Nikon D40X. It first hit the shelves in 2007 but remains a capable DSLR camera perfect for learning the basics. 

It has a 10.2MP maximum resolution and three image size options (small, medium, and large). Also, just like the Canon EOS Rebel T3, you can choose to capture your stills in RAW, JPEG, or both. 

Nikon D40X 2

Thanks to a compact, lightweight body, the D40X is ideal for kids or people with small hands. Moreover, the button layout and menu system create an extremely user-friendly interface. All of the current settings are clearly displayed on the rear LCD screen and can be quickly changed using the buttons or the dial on the top of the camera.

The biggest drawback of this best digital camera for beginners under $100 is the lack of a video mode. If you are interested in upping your filmmaker skills, you are better off going with one of the other cameras in this article. However, if you are ok strictly taking photos, the D40X is a crazy bargain.

Nikon D40X 3

A couple of other things to consider are that the autofocus is average at best, and it has a burst mode of 3 frames per second. Check out the list below of the key features and specs of the Nikon D40X. 

  • Camera Type: DSLR
  • Megapixels: 10.2MP
  • Sensor Type: APS-C
  • Lens Mount: Nikon F
  • ISO: 100 - 3200
  • Speed: 3 fps
  • AF Points: 3
  • Video: None

Learn More:

Best Sony Digital Camera for Beginners Under $100

Sony NEX 3N

Debuting in 2013, the Sony NEX-3N is undoubtedly one of the best digital cameras for beginners under $100. It’s a pocket-sized entry-level mirrorless camera boasting a 16MP APS-C CMOS sensor and a ridiculously compact body.

While many people overlook the NEX-3N in favor of the slightly more expensive Sony Alpha A6000, its features and specs are not that far behind it. Along with the powerful sensor, this Sony mirrorless camera also uses a BIONZ image processor. The pair work together seamlessly to generate sharp images with outstanding image quality. 

Sony NEX 3N 2

Another area it excels is video shooting. It’s the only camera highlighted in this article capable of recording 1080p Full HD video. If you are a hybrid shooter looking to get your feet wet in both photo and video, this is hands-down the best digital camera for beginners under $100 on this list.

On top of all that, its autofocus is highly effective, it has a flip-up screen, and it uses the Sony E mount lens system. In particular, the flip-up screen is a valuable feature and makes it a go-to choice for Vloggers and YouTubers.

Sony NEX 3N 3

Check out the list below of the key features and specs of the Sony NEX-3N. 

  • Camera Type: Mirrorless
  • Megapixels: 16MP
  • Sensor Type: APS-C
  • Lens Mount: Sony E 
  • ISO: 200 - 16000
  • Speed: 4 fps
  • AF Points: 25
  • Video: 1080p/30p

Best Olympus Digital Camera for Beginners Under $100

Olympus Pen E P1

The Olympus Pen E-P1 is an interchangeable lens mirrorless camera that hit the market in 2009. It was their first-ever Micro Four Thirds camera and remains a popular choice for beginners today. 

Essentially, it’s a replica of two legendary Olympus cameras (the E-620 and E-30) but with two significant upgrades: A 12.3MP Micro Four Thirds sensor and an electronic viewfinder. The sensor increases resolution and improves sharpness, while the EVF is fast and delivers a crystal clear live view. 

Olympus Pen E P1 2

Another key feature of the Pen E-P1 that no other camera on this list has is in-body stabilization. The “Supersonic Wave Drive” stabilization, as they call it, produces four stops of additional EV compensation. That is a huge advantage for new photographers and helps deliver better results in low-light situations, video recording, and more! 

Furthermore, it records HD movies, has two control dials for making adjustments, and has face-detection technology. With all those advanced features, it’s unquestionably one of the best digital cameras for beginners under $100.

Olympus Pen E P1 3 

Check out the list below of the key features and specs of the Olympus Pen E-P1. 

  • Camera Type: Mirrorless
  • Megapixels: 12.3 MP
  • Sensor Type: Micro Four Thirds
  • Lens Mount: Micro Four Thirds
  • ISO: 100 - 6400
  • Speed: 3 fps
  • AF Points: 11
  • Video: 720p/30p

Bonus Best Digital Cameras for Beginners Under $100

Best Digital Camera for Beginners

 photo bysvetikd via iStock

While the cameras listed above are my favorite cheap digital cameras, they are far from the only ones available. Below are some more of the best digital cameras for beginners under $100:

These cameras are available on MPB, just like those I listed earlier. When purchasing gear from MPB, you get the peace of mind of having a six-month warranty, a seven-day return window, and a detailed grading scale that lets you know the precise condition of the gear you’re interested in buying. What more could you ask for when buying camera gear?!

Learn More:



We Recommend


Best Mirrorless Camera for Street Photography

Best Mirrorless Camera for Street Photography

I’ll give you three different options so you can tailor the answer of the best camera for street photography to your specific situation, needs, and desires. We’ll look at the best choice for many people, a bargain option as an affordable street photography camera, and a high-end camera.

To understand just what you need as the best mirrorless camera for street photography, we’ll also review what street photography is, discuss some street photography ideas, review easy-to-master street photography techniques, and go over some inexpensive accessories for street photography.

Table of Contents

What Is Street Photography?

street photography technique

 photo byOrbon Alija via iStock

My best answer to this question, especially as it relates to what may be the best mirrorless camera for street photography for you, is to point to some examples from the past.

Classic street photography artists such as Henri Cartier-Bresson, Robert Frank, and Helen Levitt, are all pioneers of this craft.

Street photography can be random, candid photography, hastily posed portraits on the fly, documentary photography, or any combination of those or somewhere in between any of these street photography ideas.

Many of the classic era of street photographers gravitated toward the smaller 35mm rangefinder cameras from Leica, Contax, Canon, and Nikon. A fast normal lens or slightly wide-angle lens was most often used. A 50mm f/1.4 or a 35mm f/2.0 was commonly the lens of choice.

A lot more could be said about street photography techniques and ideas, but I’m sure you get the picture. The current crop of mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras are closest to the style of those older cameras. So, now let's look at my three choices of the best mirrorless camera for street photography. 

Best Mirrorless Camera for Street Photography

Olympus OM D E M5 Mk III with 12 45mm Pro lens

I will start with the MFT format Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mk III with 12-45mm Pro lens, which retails for a little under $1900.00. It has multiple features that make it a fantastic candidate as being the best mirrorless camera for street photography.

This camera has a 20MP MFT format sensor which provides outstanding image quality within a very compact camera body. MFT is one of what I consider the three formats best suited for serious photography. The other two are APS-C and Full Frame formats.

There is an in-body image stabilization function that gives up to 5 ½ stops of ability to handhold the camera in a wide range of exposure conditions. That helps make up for the lens being of modest maximum aperture, f/4.0, for allowing good image captures in street photography.

Olympus OM D E M5 Mk III with 12 45mm Pro lens 2

So, the photos you can get with this camera are going to be high quality, sharp, and full of exposure information when used in RAW file capture mode. That is a very desirable feature for any camera boasting to be the best mirrorless camera for street photography. 

The camera body and this pro lens are weather sealed for extra protection from the elements, another feature that benefits our choice of best mirrorless camera for street photography. 

This particular lens is well suited for a lot of street photography ideas since it has a range from wide-angle, through normal, up to a little bit of telephoto. There are many lenses from various manufacturers in the MFT mount, so this camera can do a lot for you besides being the best mirrorless camera for street photography. 

It isn’t the perfect camera for everything - it doesn’t have a built-in flash or 4K video. But I find it hard to beat as my top choice for best mirrorless camera for street photography. Now let’s see what other options we have.

Learn More:

Best Mirrorless Camera for Street Photography - Bargain Version

Sony Alpha a6000 with 16 50mm power zoom lens

Sony Alpha a6000 with 16-50mm power zoom lens is my choice for the bargain version of the best mirrorless camera for street photography. It is an APS-C format camera with a 24.2MP sensor and retails for under $750.00.

Features of this camera which make it a bargain choice for best affordable street photography camera are its super-fast autofocusing, a huge array of lenses available, Full HD video, and a super-vivid tilting viewscreen for a lot of street photography ideas and street photography techniques.

Best Mirrorless Camera for Street Photography - High-End Version

Leica Typ 240 Full Frame format mirrorless rangefinder camera

Let’s go back to the camera brand which epitomized the classic era of street photography, the Leica rangefinder. Perhaps the closest to the spirit of the Leica III-G screw mount camera or Leica M3 camera with M-mount bayonet lenses is the 24MP Leica Typ 240 Full Frame format mirrorless rangefinder camera

Leica Typ 240 Full Frame format mirrorless rangefinder camera lens

If the budget works for you, a Leica rangefinder camera with a relatively fast medium wide-angle lens such as the Leica Summicron-M 35mm f/2.0 is probably the best mirrorless camera for street photography that I could consider recommending.

The quality of all Leica products is nothing short of amazing, but you will pay for that privilege. This particular combo, for instance, will set you back around $9,300.00 or so to own this high-end version of the best mirrorless camera for street photography. 

Inexpensive Accessories for Street Photography

OctoPad Camera Mount

After the camera and lens, a few choice accessories will round out our gear for the best mirrorless camera for street photography. Three accessories I will focus attention on are a portable camera mount, a comfortable strap, and a versatile bag.

For street photography, flash is seldom used, but we may need a little more capability for low light shooting than is offered by our lens aperture and the camera image stabilization functions. But, using a tripod isn’t likely to be our best solution.

 OctoPad Camera Mount 2

The stability and portability of the OctoPad Camera Mount make it virtually indispensable for our street photography techniques and ideas. 

OctoPad is a lightweight, compact, inexpensive, and ultra-steady camera mount that pairs perfectly with our best mirrorless camera for street photography choice. It has a weighted disk base with a non-slip pad underneath and a ball head on top.

You can carry this camera mount with you for all types of street photography techniques and it even can be placed on surfaces with an incline of up to 45 degrees. It really is about the best accessory for your new best mirrorless camera for street photography. 

BlackRapid RS 4

Other useful accessories to combine with the best mirrorless camera for street photography are a sling strap such as the BlackRapid RS-4 and a heavy-duty bag such as the Hex Ranger for camera and gear protection.

That’s my take on the best mirrorless camera for street photography and some very useful accessories. I’m curious what your choices would be? 

Learn More:



We Recommend


Best Olympus Lenses for Landscape Photography in 2021

Best Olympus Lenses for Landscape Photography in 2021

photo bySjo via iStock

It has been an interesting couple of years for photographers involved in many genres, but one opportunity that always stays available is landscape photography. Since I’m a landscape photographer myself, common questions I get asked concern what to look for in a landscape photography lens and what is the best focal length for landscape photography.

Shooters of Micro Four-Thirds format (MFT, Micro 4/3rds) cameras will appreciate this roundup of the best Olympus lenses for landscape photography. Since the MFT format lens mount is shared by Panasonic, Blackmagic, DJI, and Kodak mirrorless cameras, users of those cameras can also add any Olympus MFT lens to their gear bags.

Crop Factor, Aspect Ratio, Legacy Lenses

best lenses for landscape photography

photo byBranislav via iStock

As a user of MFT cameras myself (along with other formats), I appreciate that many photographers and videographers of this format are likely already intermediate or advanced level photographers, so you don’t need a primer on crop factor.

Still, if you have been a photographer for a while, you probably started out on a different format camera, perhaps even with film-based 35mm cameras, so we’ll remind ourselves of the 2.0X crop factor and slightly more square aspect ratio.

A large reason why I think about crop factor a lot with MFT cameras has to do with how focal lengths compare on the wide-angle end of the lens spectrum. Mounting a legacy lens via an adapter especially requires us to do some mental conversions.

With all of the high-quality lenses designed specifically for MFT cameras though, especially by Olympus, I’ve narrowed down my current recommendations for best Olympus lenses for landscape photography to 3 fine options.

Features and Capabilities

best olympus lenses for landscape photography

photo byVichienPetchmai via iStock

Landscape photographers have certain requirements and expectations regarding lenses that they use as a go-to lens for serious landscape photography.  In addition to focal length and lens aperture, we also place high value on weather sealing and ruggedness for deciding the best lenses for landscape photography.

As a user of micro four-thirds cameras, you know quite well that a large number of lenses made for this mount are basically professional level lenses that are very well built and many of them have weather sealing for increased usability in extreme conditions.

Fast and accurate autofocus performance is a high priority for some of the rapidly changing views or conditions we find on our treks and adds the benefit of making the lens more usable for video recording. 

We’re always looking for a good bargain, even when shopping for high-quality and pro caliber gear, so excellent condition used lenses, such as what I constantly find at MPB.com, get put into my things to check out when shopping for lenses and other photography gear.

Focal Lengths

Focal Lengths

Among all of the available options, most of us tend to narrow our personal choices down to a few types of lenses for landscape photography. Wide angle lenses are an obvious choice, but not every landscape situation is solved by carrying a medium wide-angle.

Zoom lenses are often excellent choices, especially in the ranges of extreme wide-angle and general-purpose. With Olympus lenses, the optical quality of zoom lenses is absolutely fantastic, so we can remove that worry from any criteria list.

What I consider to be a general-purpose range of focal lengths lines up with what are often paired with some cameras as a kit, but I like to upgrade from the basic kit lens to one that has more rugged construction The Olympus PRO line of lenses all meet that requirement.

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Olympus 12-100mm f/4.0 IS PRO

Olympus 12 100mm f4.0 IS PRO

An excellent choice for all-around photography, the Olympus 12-100mm f/4.0 IS PRO zoom lens is an upgrade from the 12-42mm f/3.5-5.6 kit lens. The 12-42mm kit lenses are excellent optically, but their relatively slow maximum aperture and lighter-duty construction will have landscape photographers outgrowing them in short order.

The maximum aperture of f/4.0 is still not super speedy, but that f-stop stays constant throughout the zoom range and the built-in 5-axis image stabilization makes it a superb choice for both photography and videography in a wide range of shooting conditions. 

It has professional-level construction for ruggedness and weather sealing that protects from moisture, sand, and temperature extremes negatively affecting the lens and its use. It is superbly corrected from optical distortion and aberrations and the lens element coatings reduce flare and improve color transmission and contrast. 

The focal length range is extremely versatile, running from wide-angle through normal and up to a good bit of telephoto. The MFT crop factor of 2.0X tells us that the equivalent focal length range in Full Frame 35mm format is 24-200mm, which is a good deal of wide-angle all the way through to moderately long telephoto. 

This is a very usable range for general photography. Since it also has close focus capability, it can work as our one lens to take if limited to that. It is a bit heavy, but not outstandingly so since it’s a crop format lens. That tends to reduce size and weight for this type of lens compared with larger formats. 

Olympus 17mm f/1.8

Olympus 17mm f1.8

Sometimes a prime lens is what will work best, either due to size, lens aperture, or simply wanting that particular focal length. The Olympus 17mm f1.8 wide-angle lens is one of the best options for Micro Four-Thirds mount cameras.

At a focal length of 17mm (Full Frame format 34mm equivalent), this lens is wide enough for many scenic views that we may come across for our landscape photography. At a maximum aperture of f/1.8, it is also very fast, two or more stops faster than many zooms that also cover this focal length.

Many consider a lens such as this to be the best focal  length for landscape photography and candid or street photography because it is only a little bit wider than what is considered “normal” in field of view, apparent perspective, and distortion. The fast maximum aperture allows low light shooting and selective focus techniques which can be difficult with the crop format and slower lenses.

Olympus OM D E M10 II

While not weather-sealed like a PRO lens, it is very nicely made, heavier duty than kit lenses. It feels solid and works flawlessly with current and older Olympus MFT cameras. It's a great choice for traveling light and compact. Paired with an Olympus OM-D E-M10 II, it’s a wonderful outfit to carry in a sling pack for a day hike. 

Olympus 7-14mm f/2.8 ED PRO

Olympus 7 14mm f2.8 ED PRO

A lens option that some will list as their number one choice of best Olympus lenses for landscape photography is the Olympus 7-14mm f/2.8 ED Pro ultra wide-angle zoom lens.

With a crop factor equivalent in Full Frame format of 14mm at the widest end, this lens is what can be labeled as extreme wide-angle. Since it’s a zoom lens, it is also extremely flexible and versatile in use.

The vert fast maximum aperture of f/2.8 adds to the versatility and being a PRO series lens, it is also ruggedly built and weather sealed. The built-in petal lens hood is vital not only for flare control but also as an added layer of protection for the very large front element that would otherwise protrude out into the wild.

Olympus 7 14mm f2.8 ED PRO 2

That large front element also means there is not a filter thread for some of the filters we like to use in landscape photography, although there is some debate as to whether filters like a polarizer should be used on extremely wide lenses anyways. 

A filter holder system could be used with a specialty mount that attaches on the outside of the hood, there are several brands making this type of outfit. That way, you could still use neutral density (ND) and graduated neutral density (GND) filters on this ultra wide-angle lens for creating amazing images. 

Used Lens Options

what to look for in a landscape photography lens

photo bysergeyryzhov via iStock

High-quality lenses and other professional level photography equipment can cost quite a lot, so any time we can save some money for our awesome tools by buying some gear used. Each of these lenses were found used at a substantial savings from brand new.

The trick with buying used cameras and lenses is to know what you are buying and who you’re buying from. A reputable retailer with years of experience in what makes a worthwhile piece of used gear, a consumer-friendly return policy, and a great warranty is how I prefer to purchase used stuff that I will use in my photography. 

mpb

Besides these examples I found to illustrate my choices of the best Olympus lenses for landscape photography, MPB.com also has a huge and continuously changing array of other brands of cameras, lenses, and accessories. Some items are virtually brand new, and MPB.com stands behind what they sell, making them among my favorite stores for photography and video gear.

If you’re using one of these amazingly capable and high-quality MFT cameras, you should consider one of these 3 Olympus lenses when you want to upgrade to your own choice of the best lenses for landscape photography.

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Best Used Cameras for 2021

Best Used Cameras for 2020

Photo by Omid Armin on Unsplash

Used Cameras

Considering the pandemic, we are seeing a lot of photographers experiencing reduced business. If you need new gear, that creates a problem.. 

While this is, of course, unfortunate, it also means we could be saving a ton of money this year by simply purchasing used cameras. 

Also thanks to the pandemic, a lot of photographers are trying to downsize and get rid of their old gear, which means that you have an even better chance at snagging a great deal.

best used cameras for 2020 1

 photo byhiphotos35 via iStock

So far, we have seen a ton of incredibly cheap used cameras this year, but the following four are some of the best used cameras for 2021.  

We chose these cameras for a few reasons. Firstly, in order for a camera to make our best used cameras for 2021 article, it has to be inexpensive. This means different things for different people, so we tried to include a wide range of cameras we think are a great deal.

Secondly, we wanted to make sure that every camera on this list has features that make it a realistic option for a professional photographer working in 2021. 

It took us quite a while to pick these out and we hope you benefit from it. 

NIKON D7100

Nikon D7100 1

The first camera on our “best used cameras for 2021” list is the Nikon D7100.  

The Nikon D7100 is a workhorse if I’ve ever seen one. It features a 24MP sensor, an impressive 3.2” LCD 1.22m-dot screen, and a 6fps burst mode that can last for up to 100 shots.

In order for me to consider a camera workhorse, though, it has to have a great battery life, which the Nikon D7100 does. Its battery is rated at 950 shots, which means it can last for well over 1,000 in the right conditions.

Nikon D7100 2 

Unfortunately, it doesn’t feature 4K video, but it can shoot full HD at 60, 50, 30, 25, and 24fps.

As you can see in this video by Jo Jo Productions, this camera can handle itself in video mode.  

You can also throw this camera around a bit because of its robust weather-proofed body. If you’ve ever shot with any of the cameras in the Nikon D line before, then you will be able to pick this one up with ease.   

You can find a used Nikon D7100 on MPB starting from just $314, making it one of the best used cameras for 2021.

OLYMPUS OM-D E-M1

Olympus OM D E M1

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 is the cheapest camera on our best used cameras for 2021 list because it’s getting old. It came out in 2013 and has since been replaced with two newer versions. 

But, I think the Olympus OM-D E-M1 specs have aged exceptionally well. For instance, this camera features a 16MP sensor and an ISO range up to 25,600. Its EVF has 2.36m-dots and 100% coverage.

Its 3.0” touchscreen comes with 1.03m-dots and tilts so that you can capture the best images from any angle.

Olympus OM D E M1 2

It also features some impressive specs for its age. For example, it comes with built-in Wi-Fi and a 10fps burst mode with autofocus. 

While its battery life is definitely not as impressive as the Nikon D7100, it is workable at 440 shots. 

The one thing I wouldn’t recommend this camera for in 2021 is its video quality. But, you can check out the video test by Blizzardfoto above to judge for yourself. 

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 tops our list of the best used cameras for 2021 because you can find it on MPB for only $209. 

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CANON EOS 6D 

Canon EOS 6D 2

The Canon EOS 6D is one of the more expensive best used cameras for 2021 on our list at $680, but we promise it's worth it. 

The Canon EOS 6D specs include:

  • 20MP sensor
  • DIGIC 5+ processor
  • ISO range o 100-25,600
  • 4.5fps burst mode
  • Full HD video 
  • 97% viewfinder coverage
  • 3.2” LCD screen with 1.04m-dots
  • Built-in Wi-Fi and GPS

Canon EOS 6D 2

My favorite quality of the Canon EOS 6D is its vari-angle screen, which makes taking selfies or vlogging incredibly easy. For this reason, I’ve used this camera while traveling to various countries. 

But, it's one of the best used cameras for 2021 because it's rugged. 

SONY A7R

Sony a7R 1

The Sony a7R is probably the most popular camera on our best used cameras for 2021 list, and for good reason, because the Sony a7R specs are nothing short of impressive. 

The Sony a7R dropped in 2013 and immediately solidified itself as a favorite everyday shooter for professional photographers. If you remember, the Sony a7R dropped alongside two other cameras in the same line: the Sony a7S and the Sony a7, though these cameras really had more in common than Sony made it seem at first.

Sony a7R 2

The sony a7R is a first-generation E mount, compact camera. It came with a high resolution 36MP full-frame Exmor CMOS sensor. It also came with Sony’s best processor to date, the BIONZ-X Image Processor.

Its electronic viewfinder features 2.36m-dots and its 3.0” LCD tilts. 

Again, this camera is nearly a decade old at this point, so it doesn’t feature 4K video, but it can shoot full HD video at 24 or 60p. 

Its ISO rating is the same as every other camera on this list: 100-25,600. 

Sony a7R 3

If you’re wondering what the difference is between the Sony a7R, the Sony a7, and the Sony a7S you aren’t alone.

The major difference between these three cameras is the sensor. For example, the Sony a7 comes with a 24MP sensor, while the Sony a7S comes with a 12MP sensor.

Sony a7R 4

There’s also a large difference in the low light capabilities of these three models, since the Sony a7S was specifically built for low-light shooting and comes with an ISO range of 100-102,400.

The battery life on all three cameras is pretty similar, with the Sony a7R reporting a 340-shot battery life, the Sony a7 reporting a 340-shot battery life, and the Sony a7S reporting a 380-shot battery life. 

Unfortunately the last of the “best used cameras for 2021” is currently out of stock on MPB, but check back frequentlybecause MPB rotates through hundreds of products every day. 

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Budget-Friendly Cameras to Consider for 2021

Budget Friendly Cameras to Consider for 2020 

 photo byARTYuSTUDIO via iStock

If you’re like me and have a family, then there’s pretty much no way to run a photography business or even have a photography hobby without searching for budget-friendly cameras.

For starters, almost all cameras now-a-days feature similar specs, and if they don’t, you can get almost any effects that you want in post-production.

While I follow all of the news on the up and coming tech, I’m really a cheap cameras aficionado at heart. 

So, here are the top 3 budget-friendly cameras I’m looking at as we head into 2020.

Canon 5D Mark II

canon mark 5d

If you’re like me and have a family, then there’s pretty much no way to run a photography business or even have a photography hobby without searching for budget-friendly cameras.

For starters, almost all cameras now-a-days feature similar specs, and if they don’t, you can get almost any effects that you want in post-production.

While I follow all of the news on the up and coming tech, I’m really a cheap cameras aficionado at heart.  

So, here are the top 3 budget-friendly cameras I’m looking at as we head into 2020.

The Canon 5D Mark II is a phenomenal full-frame camera that is not for beginners. This budget full frame camera dropped back in 2008, but it still features a 21.1MP CMOS sensor, full HD 1080p video, and 3.9fps burst shooting. 

If any of these budget-friendly cameras prove my point that technology in professional cameras is no longer evolving so quickly that you need a new one every year, it’s the Canon 5D Mark II. 

Other Canon 5D Mark II specs include:

  • 21.1MP sensor
  • 1080p shooting
  • 3.9fps burst shooting
  • 1.87 lbs
  • ISO range of 100-6400
  • 3” fixed LCD screen 
  • Waterproof and dust resistant

JordanPhotoAudio does a great job of explaining the many benefits this camera still has over a decade later. So, check it out.

Pros of the Canon:

  • Crisp visuals, even in burst mode
  • Full 1080p video capabilities
  • Long battery life
  • LCD screen that competes with cameras well into the 2010s
  • Self-cleaning sensor

Cons of the Canon:

  • No autofocus illuminator
  • Less-than-ideal low-light shooting
  • Power switch button can be difficult 

You can buy the Canon 5D Mark II on Amazon for $1,300, or get it for almost one-third of the cost by buying used. MPB features the Canon 5D Mark II starting at $539.

Olympus OM-D EM-1 

olympus om d em 1

On top of my budget-friendly cameras list is this micro four thirds Olympus. It features a 16.3MP Live MOS sensor, 2.36m dot electronic viewfinder, and is very cheap used.

This Olympus dropped back in 2013, and held the highest camera sensor rating of any Olympus cameras for the next year. 

olympus om d em 1 2

Olympus OM-D EM-1 specs:

  • 16MP MOS sensor
  • ISO range from 100-25,600
  • 10fps burst shooting, or 6.5fps burst shooting with continuous AF
  • 1.04M-dot 3” LCD touchscreen that tilts
  • 2.36M-dot electronic viewfinder
  • Built-in Wi-Fi
  • Dust, splash and freeze-proof 

olympus om d em 1 3

Pros of the Olympus:

  • Incredibly weather sealed
  • Clear and crisp photos
  • Ergonomic grip
  • Accurate AF system

Cons of the Olympus:

  • Significant noise introduced at ISO 2000 and above
  • Slow Wi-Fi
  • AF points are too large 

You can purchase the Olympus OM-D EM-1 on Amazon for $850 right now, or head over to MPB to take a look at their used selection where you can find this camera for $339.

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Nikon D7100 

nikon d7100

In an effort to keep this budget-friendly cameras list diverse, I chose the Nikon D7100 as the final camera. This mid-range APS-C camera came out in 2013, just like the Olympus, but features very different strong points. 

For example, The Nikon D7100 features a 24.1MP DX-format sensor, shoots incredibly well in low-light, and has one of the best AF systems of any camera from the early 2010s. 

nikon d7100 2

Other Nikon D7100 Specs include:

  • 24.1MP sensor
  • Mobile connectivity
  • ISO range of 100 to 6400
  • 6fps burst shooting for up to 100 shots
  • AF system with 51 points
  • 3.2” LCD screen with 1,229K dots
  • Full 1080p video capabilities
  • 100% frame coverage
  • Wi-Fi connectivity

nikon d7100 3

Pros of the Nikon:

  • Incredible AF system
  • Good LCD screen
  • Dust and moisture proof body
  • Performs well in low-light situations

Cons of the Nikon:

  • RAW shooting is lacking
  • Must purchase accessories for Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Noise becomes a problem at higher ISOs

You can purchase the Nikon D7100 on Amazon for $900. If you’re looking for a better bargain, though, MPB features the same camera starting at $364.

Where Can I Buy Cheap Cameras in 2020?

MPB

While I think these three cameras are the most budget-friendly cameras you can purchase new going into the new year, they’re also the best cheap used cameras you can buy. 

These cameras are all older, so you probably won’t find any of them in excellent condition, but if you’re looking to upgrade for half the price and are willing to purchase used, MPB has a wide variety of these cameras for you.

And, if you’re looking for newer used cameras, MPB has those as well. Some of which are in near-mint condition. You just need to browse around. 

I trust MPB because of their grading system, which tells me exactly what condition my new-to-me camera is in. They also have one of the biggest selections of any used camera store online, which is helpful for me because I don’t have many physical camera stores nearby.

Learn More:

 

 



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Camera Sensor Sizes Explained

Camera Sensor Sizes Explained

 photo by4kodiak via iStock

Camera sensor sizes, crop factor, and focal lengths vary quite a bit among all the different digital cameras presently up for grabs. This can cause no end of confusion for beginner and advanced photographers alike.  

In order to have camera sensor sizes explained, and to understand just what a crop factor is, we’ll have to go back in time… Not too far, though, just to the golden age of film photography.

Table of Contents

35mm Film and the Nifty Fifty Lens

camera sensor sizes 1

Photo by Stefan Grage from Pexels

If you’re old enough to have firsthand memories of the 1970s and 80s, one of those memories could be the Canon AE-1 camera commercial with tennis pro John Newcombe informing us that the AE-1 was “so advanced - it's simple. 

The reason I bring this up is because that era pretty much cemented in the minds of the populous the idea of 35mm film cameras being the “standard” format for most photography. At least, most amatuer photography, and a whole bunch of pro photography, too.

camera sensor sizes 2

Photo by Dave Craige on Unsplash

The Nifty Fifty 50mm lens has been the standard or normal lens for the 35mm film format for about 100 years. So, everything involved in lenses and formats tends to be based on or compared to these two standards. 

Full Frame digital format is the same as 35mm film format, with most other digital formats being compared to Full Frame by means of a crop factor. And many lenses are compared to that format’s 50mm lens for magnification.

So, a 200mm lens might be referred to as a 4X lens, since 200mm on Full Frame delivers 4X the magnification of the 50mm lens. Crop factor refers to how a lens focal length behaves on a format other than Full Frame.

 

Recommended Photography Reading

 

Crop Factor and Sensor Size 

Crop Factor and Sensor Size

Crop Factor is mentioned so often in camera advertisements and digital photography articles, we should probably find a good explanation of it so we understand what it means to us and our digital photography. 

Specifically, crop factor is the ratio of a format’s imaging area compared to the reference format, in most cases, the Full Frame format. Any sensor smaller than Full Frame sees a narrower field of view, thus any focal length lens will provide a narrower field of view on smaller formats.

This is what is referred to when listing a crop factor. As an example, on a format with a 1.5X crop factor, a 200mm on Full Frame will behave similarly to a 300mm lens on the smaller format. The focal length has not changed, only how the sensor sees it compared to Full Frame. See what I mean in the video below by ProAV TV:

Compared to Full Frame is the important part to understand. It is still a 200mm lens. Focal lengths don’t change, only how a format sees the field of view of that focal length. Compared to a 50mm lens on Full Frame, a 200mm lens is a 6X telephoto on a 1.5X crop factor format camera, even though it’s only 4X on Full Frame. 

Is your head swimming yet? Yeah, I know. Imagine how it feels to some of us who shoot with multiple formats or who have dyslexia!

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Larger Sensors Have Higher Quality

full frame sensor size 3

Photo by picjumbo.com from Pexels 

This isn’t a knock on any sensor size or camera brand. It’s simple physics. The larger the sensor, the larger each individual pixel is. Which is why my 7 gazillion MB smartphone camera can not provide the overall image quality of my Full Frame mirrorless.  

That won’t stop me from using my smartphone, MFT, or APS-C cameras, though. Like many pros or other serious users, I choose the equipment to fit the needs of that photo or video shoot. Likewise, if you have standardized on one or two formats for yourself, you can achieve outstanding results. 

When used properly, any camera gear can produce outstanding images. Conversely, the highest end equipment on the planet won’t deliver superior results if not used well.

The Various Camera Sensor Sizes

full frame sensor size 4

 photo by recep-bg via iStock 

The pixel size and overall area of larger digital formats also impacts depth of focus. Crop factor is a huge reason, but there are other characteristics that come into play as well. Which is why there are post processing programs and smartphone apps for selective focus effects. 

It should also be noted that most of the digital formats have an aspect ratio of 4:3 as opposed to the Full Frame format’s aspect ratio of 3:2. Which means that Full Frame and the closest crop format APS-C have a height to width ratio that is slightly more rectangular than most of the other formats. 

The MB count is only part of what provides overall image quality. But enough about that, let’s get to the most used camera sensor sizes. I’ll start from small and get larger. 

1/3.2” Sensor

Canon PowerShot A100

Canon PowerShot A100 

There are smaller sensor sizes in some older smartphone and point-and-shoot style cameras, but this size is one of the smallest currently used in a decent quality camera. Camera examples include the iPhone 5 and Canon PowerShot A100.  

This sensor size is 4.5mm x 3.4mm, so it’s pretty small. This small size allows it to be a smartphone camera sensor size. In order to get any selective focus from this sensor, you will need to use a smartphone app or post processing.  

Crop factor is 7.6X, so focal length calculations usually aren’t even mentioned for this smartphone camera sensor size.

1/2.3” Sensor

Panasonic Lumix FZ80 

Panasonic Lumix FZ80 

A more common size, this is also used as an iPhone camera sensor size and in many point-and-shoot style cameras. Plus you may find it in various medical and scientific imaging devices where small size is vital. 

Several Super Zoom Compacts use this sensor with a crop factor of 5.6X and a size of 6.3mm x 4.7mm. The Nikon Coolpix B500 and Panasonic Lumix FZ80 use this sensor. So does the waterproof compact camera Olympus TG-6

Image quality can be quite good, which is also because of the excellent lenses in many of these cameras. Few of these or smaller sensor cameras offer any RAW image file recording, using JPEG as their standard image file type.

2/3” Sensor

Fujifilm X30 

Fujifilm X30 

Fujifilm X30 and some tablets like the iPad Mini 2 use this 8.8mm x 6.6mm sensor with a crop factor of 3.9X. Just so you know, many tablets have excellent imaging capabilities, a fact that sometimes gets overlooked by focusing on the super portable and ubiquitous smartphone. 

Some older cameras such as early Leica Digilux cameras made outstanding use of this sensor size. Many of these cameras can be found for great prices on your favorite used camera sites. 

1” Type Sensor

Sony RX 100 VI

Sony RX-100 VI 

The 1” type sensor is one of the more common sensors for serious video cameras such as the Sony FDR-AX100 4K camcorder and the Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema 4K camera, as well as super high quality compact cameras like the Sony RX-100 VI with Carl Zeiss lens and the Canon PowerShot G9.  

Some ultra compact interchangeable cameras use the 1 inch sensor as well, Nikon 1 series of cameras and lenses is a prime example.  

A crop factor of 2.7X is a characteristic of the 13.2mm x 8.8mm sized 1 inch sensor. Excellent video in 4K is capable with this sensor as well as exceptional still imaging with the ultra high quality lenses normally paired with these cameras.

4/3rds and MFT Sensor Cameras

Olympus OM D E M1X

Olympus OM-D E-M1X 

Both 4/3rds and MFT (micro four thirds) cameras use this camera sensor size, the difference in cameras is one is a DSLR and the MF is mirrorless. Almost all of the newest offerings are MFT.

MFT is also an excellent format for high end video recording. It offers video recording quality that actually surpasses film formats such as 16mm and Super16, depending on the exact application. 

Serious and professional level still photography can also be accomplished with this format that has a crop factor of 2X and an image area of 13.5mm x 18mm. Notable cameras with superior performance in MFT are the Olympus OM-D E-M1X, the ultra compact Olympus PEN-F, and the video superstar Panasonic LUMIX GH5s

APS-C Format

Nikon D3500

Nikon D3500 

APS-C is used on still imaging and video-capable DSLRs and mirrorless cameras from entry-level up to professional caliber. For most brands, APS-C format sensors are 23.6mm x 15.6mm with a crop factor of 1.5X. Canon APS-C cameras use a 22.3mm x 14.9mm sensor for a 1.6X crop factor. 

There is also the APS-H crop format with a 1.3X crop factor, but no current cameras are using that format. It was really more of a stop gap format before any of the camera manufacturers were building any of their own DSLRs in Full Frame sensor size.

Canon EOS 90D

Canon EOS 90D 

This format is a great option for serious photography as it gives you outstanding image quality while maintaining a smaller size and lower price that photographic enthusiasts have been leaning towards since well before digital photography became commonplace.  

Several amazingly advanced cameras and camera systems are using the APS-C format, including ones from Sony, Nikon, Canon, Pentax, and Fuji. Notable lower-priced cameras include the Nikon D3500, Canon EOS Rebel T6, Pentax K-70, Fujifilm X-T30, and Sony A6100. Prosumer or professional models include the Nikon D7500 and Nikon D500, Canon EOS 90D, Pentax K-1 Mark II, Fujifilm XT-4, and Sony A6600.

Full Frame 35mm Format

Nikon D780

Nikon D780 

Some simply call it Full Frame, leaving off the 35mm label, but this is the same size as the film cameras using 135 or 35mm film. The full frame filter size is 24mm x 36mm, crop factor of 1X. 

There aren’t many entry level priced cameras in this format because it costs much more to make larger sensors, not to mention the increased size, weight, and cost for lenses as well. Still, there are several models from the various brands that cost less than a nice used car.

Sony a9 II

Sony a9 II 

A few excellent general use cameras that come to mind are the Nikon D780 and the mirrorless Nikon Z6, Canon EOS 6D Mark II, and Sony a7 III. Professional use cameras such as the Nikon D6, Nikon Z7, Sony a9 II, and Leica M10 are among the finest imaging tools ever made but are extremely expensive for any average user.

What you get with Full Frame digital, DSLR or mirrorless, is absolutely excellent image quality, plus all the other characteristics that can be used to create superior images and video. And no crop factor! Everything is larger, heavier, and more expensive than crop formats, but for those who want or need it, it’s definitely worth those costs. 

Medium Format Digital

Hasselblad X1D II

Hasselblad X1D II 

A digital format that is very important in the commercial photography world but doesn’t get a lot of discussion among any but the most serious photographers is medium format. Actually, we could say multiple medium formats as there is a lot of variation in format sizes. Some aren’t much larger than Full Frame, others are equal to 6X6cm film format.  

Some of the best options in medium format digital are the mirrorless cameras such as the Hasselblad X1D II, Fujifilm GFX 50S, and Fujifilm GFX 100. These cameras are amazing tools and their price points are amazing, too. A little rich for most enthusiasts, but absolutely  superb cameras. 

Learn More:

What Camera Sensor Size Should You Get?

crop factor 5

 photo by tomazl via iStock 

Any of the larger camera sensor sizes are worthy professional and advanced photo enthusiast cameras. The larger sizes like Full Frame and APS-Care preferred for pro use more so than smaller formats, outside of MFT and 1 Inch Type being the favorites of many serious videographers.

As we say many times, though, a camera is only as good as the photographer using it. Check out the Learn More links in this article to reference other guides to help you continue to grow as a photographer, regardless of what camera sensor size you are currently using.

 



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Micro Four Thirds vs APS-C: Pros and Cons

difference between micro four thirds and aps c

photo byjacoblund via iStock

Two different crop formats have a large share of beginner, enthusiast, and professionals using them, APC-C and MFT (Micro Four Thirds). The form factor is similar to what photographic enthusiasts have been using since the 1960s, the 35mm film SLR. 

Of course, in current cameras, APS-C and Micro Four Thirds are digital camera formats, not film. What is the difference between Micro Four Thirds vs APS-C, what are the pros and cons of Micro Four Thirds vs APS-C, and which format system is right for me?

What is a Crop Format?

micro four thirds vs aps c

photo byAlexander Shelegov via iStock

A crop format, APS-C or MFT, is a smaller format than the Full Frame format. Full Frame corresponds directly to 35mm film format, being 24mm x 36mm in size. The other two formats we’re considering are cropped down from that.

So, what is APS-C? It’s a format with the same image aspect ratio (height to width) as Full Frame, namely a 3:2 ratio, but with a sensor size of 23.6mm x 15.6mm. This gives a crop factor compared to Full Frame of 1.5X, a specification you will see in a lot of articles and ads.

What is Micro Four Thirds?  Micro Four Thirds (MFT or Micro 4/3rds) sensors are a slightly different aspect ratio, 4:3 specifically, and have a sensor size of 17.3mm x 13mm producing a crop factor of 2X. 

For a full explanation of crop factors, sensor sizes, and aspect ratios, Micro Four Thirds vs APS-C vs Full Frame, check out the articles in our archives. 

What it all really means for many beginner or enthusiast photographers is that we can get high-quality cameras and lenses for serious photography without the higher costs and larger sizes of Full Frame cameras and lenses.

Pros and Cons of APS-C

Micro Four Thirds vs APS C Pros and Cons

photo byMarioGuti via iStock

APS-C format also first started as a film format, a smaller alternative to Full Frame 35mm film format. It kept the aspect ratio that everyone was using, 3:2, but featured smaller cameras and lenses, plus the film cartridge was easier to load, virtually foolproof, in fact.

So, making the jump to high-quality digital imaging, it was actually a simple transition to APS-C digital format. Interestingly, many of the earliest professional and prosumer digital cameras from the major players like Kodak, Fuji, Nikon, and Canon, were APS-C format cameras.

Let’s consider some of the pros and cons of APS-C format digital cameras. Pros include the smaller size of most of the cameras and lenses compared to Full Frame, plus there are many very budget-friendly cameras in APS-C, both entry-level and higher-end gear. 

One of the cons of APS-C format can also be considered a pro, depending on how you look at it, the crop factor. It is a pro when considering telephoto lenses but a con when going the other way toward wide-angle. 

In order to use wide and ultra-wide lenses in this format, the focal lengths are very short. With a crop factor of 1.5X, in order to get the equivalent coverage of a 21mm lens in Full Frame format, it requires a 14mm lens in APS-C. 

Low light performance is also less in smaller formats. A larger sensor size allows for larger pixel sizes, so a 24mp camera in Full Frame has better low light performance than a 24mp sensor in an APS-C format camera because the actual pixels are larger. That’s oversimplified, but you get the idea.

Some of the most budget-friendly cameras in entry-level and prosumer level are in APC-C format DLSRs, and some of the most advanced cameras at a reasonable price are APS-C mirrorless. 

Here are a few examples: 

The Nikon D7200 is a prosumer level APS-C DSLR that is very favorably priced compared to full ledged pro cameras in Full Frame format. 

Canon EOS Rebel T6i is a fine entry-level DSLR with lots of great features that will allow you to grow as a photographer.

Mirrorless cameras in APS-C format include the Fujifilm X-T4 pro camera and many Sony cameras from entry-level to professional such as Sony Alpha A6500.

By the way, all of the cameras listed in this article are used items from MPB.com. Buying used is another great way to get high-quality camera gear for reasonable prices.

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Pros and Cons of Micro Four Thirds

what is micro four thirds

photo byProstock-Studio via iStock

Now let’s look at the pros and cons of Micro Four Thirds cameras. All Micro Four Thirds cameras will be mirrorless, no DSLRs in MFT. Some earlier cameras in 4/3rds format were DSLRs, but all of the major players now in this format are mirrorless.

Mirrorless cameras generally use power from the batteries quicker than a comparable DSLR, so that’s one of the cons. Another con is also a pro, just as in APS-C, the crop factor for lenses. Micro Four Thirds cameras have a 2X crop factor compared to Full Frame.  

A great pro for Micro Four Thirds cameras is the size and weight. This format has some of the most compact, lightest weight professional capable cameras and lenses in all of serious photography.

Video performance is generally outstanding with Micro Four Thirds but you’ll be hard-pressed to find rock bottom dollar entry-level cameras in this format. Some of the pro and prosumer cameras are a little pricey, but the features are fantastic.

Examples of fine cameras in Micro Four Thirds are the video superstar Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH5 and a favorite of many wildlife photographers, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 III

Micro Four Thirds vs APS-C - Which Should I Buy?

what is aps c pros and cons of micro four thirds

photo byg-stockstudio via iStock

So now the question of Micro Four Thirds vs APS-C formats comes down to which one to buy. There’s no one easy answer to this question, as is the case with so much photography gear and methods.

The smallest, lightest fully professional cameras are in the mirrorless Micro Four Thirds format. These cameras also have superb video capabilities. But you will be paying more for many MFT cameras than comparable items in APS-C DSLRs. And keep the 2X crop factor in mind also.

Some of the most budget-friendly entry-level cameras can be found in DSLRs in APS-C format. Many fine prosumer DSLRs of this format are surprisingly affordable as well. You can really do well with your personal budget by considering a used camera from a reputable dealer such as MPB.com.

mpb

This format has the same aspect ratio of Full Frame format so if you transitioned from 35mm film to digital photography, APS-C format will feel familiar. Some of these cameras may even take some classic lenses you may still have, though with some limitations of functionality.

Many excellent mirrorless system cameras can be found in APS-C format, many of them with excellent video features. As with Micro Four Thirds, these mirrorless system cameras are often a little higher priced than comparable DLSRs in this format.

Micro Four Thirds vs APS-C camera systems is an interesting discussion. You won’t go wrong whichever way you choose. 

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Olympus E-M5 Mark III is Coming

Olympus E M5 III Price

*The above photo is of the Olympus E-M5 Mark II, for visual purposes

Let’s talk about Olympus’ newest Micro Four Thirds camera because it’s dropping this week and we’re excited over here at PhotographyTalk.

The Olympus E-M5 Mark III release date, aka the pre-order date, is officially October 17th (according to the latest rumors), and the fact that Amazon’s UK website accidentally published the sales page for the Olympus E-M5 Mark III a few days ago leads me to believe it won’t drop any later than this. The rumor site 4/3 Rumors believes the ship date will be November 18th. 

Olympus E-M5 III Specs

Olympus E M5 III Specs 

*The above photo is of the Olympus E-M5 Mark II, for visual purposes

So, now that you know when this gorgeous Micro Four Thirds is dropping, I’m sure you’re wondering what the Olympus E-M5 III features are like.

First, it should be about 55% of a full-size model, so it’s compact but it’s also light.

It also features a tropical, frost and water resistant housing, for those of us who travel or live in less than ideal climates for photography.

But, most importantly, it’s going to feature a fully redesigned Micro Four Thirds image sensor with 121 on-sensor cross-type AF points. Plus, it will feature a 5-axis IBIS system. 

There is one more upgrade: the OLED electronic viewfinder, which should give you an extremely clear view of the scene from corner to corner. 

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Olympus E-M5 III Price 

Olympus E M5 Mark III is Coming

*The above photo is of the Olympus E-M5 Mark II, for visual purposes

This is always one of those brace yourselves moments; the Olympus E-M5 III price is estimated to be around $1,700. This will include the camera and a 14-150mm f/4-5.6 lens. 

 If you, like me, can’t just find nearly $2,000 under your bed, there is another good option. The Olympus E-M5 II has officially been out for 5 years, and cameras that are 5 years old are usually much, much cheaper, despite the fact they usually feature about the same specs. 

 This is true of the Olympus E-M5 II, which features full HD video, Olympus’ trademark 5-Axis image stabilization, built-in WiFi, and a 81-point autofocus system. 

Olympus E M5 II

Plus, it’s available for 1/3rd of the price on MPB.You read that right, there are multiple Olympus E-M5 II cameras on sale for under $500 right here. 

I always recommend buying your used cameras on MPB for a few reasons: firstly, they always have good deals on a wide variety of cameras, and secondly, because you know every single one of those good deals has been extensively inspected to insure you know the precise condition of the gear you buy. And as an added bonus, you can trade in your old gear on MPB to help you reach your goal of a brand new camera. 

The grading scale MPB uses is easy to follow and allows you to know exactly what condition the camera is in before shelling out the money for it. Plus, free shipping. I can’t remember the last time I paid for shipping; that’s how much free shipping means to me!

So, if you aren’t in a position to upgrade to a brand-new camera at this point, try finding a quality used rig instead. You can save a great deal of money without sacrificing too much in the way of features.

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Olympus OM-D E-M1 I Review

Olympus OM D E M1 I Review

I recently did a review of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 II and had quite a few messages from people asking me to also review the older version in this lineup, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 I. 

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 I came out in 2013 and was the second model in this lineup by Olympus. When it first came out, it was considered top of the line. In terms of its specs, it was one of Olympus’ most impressive cameras. 

However, with age, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 I became cheaper and more photographers were able to use it. It is now no longer considered a camera strictly for professionals.  

So, who is it for? I would argue that the Olympus OM-D E-M1 I would make a great camera for advanced photographers, especially advanced photographers who like to travel or shoot in crazy weather. It would also be really good for a new photographer who wanted their first camera to be a camera that they could grow into over time. 

This Olympus OM-D E-M1 review will cover all of the basic things you need to know about this camera, like its specs, and towards the end of it I will also mention where you can buy an incredibly cheap Olympus OM-D E-M1 I right now. 

Olympus OM-D E-M1 I Specs

Olympus OM D E M1 I Specs

This camera is a mirrorless camera with a 16MP MOS Four Thirds sensor. It is weather-sealed, which is super helpful for people who are planning on using it outside pretty frequently.

It features a dual autofocus system and a TruePIC VII processor. 

For the fact that this camera is as old as it is, some of its specs are pretty spectacular. It comes with in-body image stabilization, for one. It also features a viewfinder with 2.36m-dots, which is a better resolution than many entry-level mirrorless cameras come with today. 

Other Olympus OM-D E-M1 I Specs Include:

  • 16MP MOS Four Thirds sensor
  • ISO range of 100-25,600
  • 3” tilting touchscreen with 1.04m-dots
  • 10fps burst mode or 6.5 fps burst mode with autofocus
  • 2.36m-dot electronic viewfinder 
  • 5-axis in-body image stabilization
  • Full 1080p HD video capabilities
  • Built-in Wi-Fi
  • Weather-proofed body

Olympus OM-D E-M1 I Body & Design

Olympus OM D E M1 I Body Design 1

One of the biggest complaints about the Olympus OM-D E-M1 I design is that Olympus was trying to do too much with this camera. It’s a mirrorless camera, so it should be small inherently, but a lot of photographers find that the Olympus OM-D E-M1 I is actually quite large. 

Of course, this does come in handy in certain ways. For instance, the grip on the Olympus OM-D E-M1 I is one of the best I’ve ever found on a mirrorless setup.

However, photographers have also complained that the aesthetic of the camera is a little confusing. Whereas other camera manufacturers have decided to go with an old-school aesthetic for a lot of their modern cameras, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 I feels like a mix of a vintage aesthetic and a more modern one. I personally would have liked it better if Olympus just made the decision to make their camera look exactly like an old film camera.

Olympus OM D E M1 I Body Design 2

However, the aesthetics of the camera don’t really affect how it works and if you’re buying a camera that’s nearly a decade old, you likely aren’t doing so for the way it looks.

So, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 I body measures 5.1” x 3.7” x 2.8” and it weighs just over a pound. In many ways, this is clearly a camera that Olympus made. For instance, the top of the camera is absolutely jam packed with buttons.

The tilting touchscreen is definitely a nice touch, although it is going to be odd if you’ve never used an Olympus before. It tilts 80-degrees upwards and 50-degrees downwards. This type of tilting touchscreen is very clearly for shooting at hip level.  

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Olympus OM-D E-M1 I Build & Handling

Olympus OM D E M1 I Build Handling 1

Most Olympus cameras have their quirks and I feel like this one is no different.  

I would argue that the Olympus OM-D E-M1 I handling is excellent with one huge caveat… that you take the time to learn how to handle it properly. You likely won’t be pleased with its handling if you’re planning on shooting with it right out of the box.

Olympus OM D E M1 I Build Handling 2

Let me give you an example. The moment you get your new Olympus OM-D E-M1 and start shooting with it, you are going to be shooting Fine JPEG shots. This makes no sense to me because this camera comes with another quality JPEG, the Super Fine JPEG, which produces much clearer images.

Without reading the manual or reviews online about this, you would have an incredibly difficult time finding it and likely never would.

So, give yourself at least a half hour to flip through the manual and adjust all of your settings the way you would like them. 

Otherwise, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 I build is what you would expect of the line. 

Olympus OM-D E-M1 I Video Performance

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 I video performance test above was provided to use courtesy of Geekanoids.

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 I features Full HD video capabilities. It comes with a microphone socket so that you can listen to your audio while recording. It also allows you to use the 5-axis image stabilization while recording video.

The autofocus system also works impressively well for the age of the camera. 

However, this camera still isn’t designed for videographers and it isn’t without its fair share of problems, the most noticeable of which is that it can only record in three different volume levels.  

Olympus OM-D E-M1 I Price

Olympus OM D E M1 I Price

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 I cost over $800 when it first came out in 2013 because it was definitely aimed at professional photographers.  

However, 7 years later and the Olympus OM-D E-M1 I price has dropped significantly, primarily because you can only find used versions of it available anymore.

But, I always recommend beginner photographers use old equipment because they don’t yet know how to take care of their gear. I also buy used camera gear myself because it’s a great way to save money so that I can spend more on things that really matter, like lenses. 

MPB currently has an Olympus OM-D E-M1 I for sale for $269. I should also mention that it is in excellent condition, which means it has barely any signs of use. 

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Olympus OM-D E-M1 II Review

Olympus OM D E M1 II

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 II is the perfect fully featured camera for a photography enthusiast, or the perfect second camera body for a professional. It came out in 2016, which means all of its specs are fairly up to date but its pricing is cheaper than similar coming out right now.  

Let’s dive into this quick Olympus OM-D E-M1 II review to see if it may be a good choice for you. 

Olympus OM-D E-M1 II Specs

Olympus OM D E M1 II Specs

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 II is a mirrorless camera with impressive in-body image stabilization, an incredible 60fps burst mode and very good AF system.  

Other Olympus OM-D E-M1 II Specs:

  • 20MP sensor
  • 5-axis in-body image-stabilization
  • 121-point AF system
  • 60fps electronic burst mode
  • 15fps mechanical burst mode
  • 3” fully articulating LCD screen
  • 4K video capabilities
  • Weather-sealed body 

Olympus OM-D E-M1 II Body & Design

Olympus OM D E M1 II Body Design 1

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 II body is relatively compact. It’s built from magnesium and aluminum, which means it’s built to withstand just about anything you could throw at it. 

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 II features impressive weather-sealing, a familiar build for anyone that has worked with the E-M1 line before, and an elongated grip.

Olympus OM D E M1 II Body Design 2

The biggest change with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 II build is that what used to be a tilting LCD is now a fully articulating screen. This is a welcome change for videographers, however there is one problem. If you have anything plugged into the jack on the left side of the camera, it will prevent your screen from fully rotating, which is a bit frustrating.  

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 II doesn’t come with a built-in flash, but it does come with an external flash that can tilt upward by 90 degrees or rotate 180 degrees in both directions. 

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Olympus OM-D E-M1 II Build & Handling

Olympus OM D E M1 II Build Handling 1 

When it comes to the Olympus OM-D E-M1 II handling the first thing you’ll notice is the impressive weather-sealing. In order to showcase just how good the weather-sealing on this camera is, Olympus held a press event in Iceland wherein the camera shot through snow, hail and rain in the first few minutes.

Otherwise, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 II feels very similar to its predecessor. It’s balanced. It’s sturdy. It shoots for up to 440 shots before needing to be recharged. Keep in mind that your battery may drain more quickly if you are using the Olympus OM-D E-M1 II for its intended purpose: shooting in insane weather. 

Olympus OM D E M1 II Build Handling 2

The one negative thing I noticed about the handling of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 II

(other than the videography jack problem I discussed earlier) is that the shutter release button is a bit too sensitive, which may lead to unnecessary shots. 

Olympus OM-D E-M1 II Video Performance

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 II video performance is pretty spectacular, as showcased by Mathieu Gasquet above. 

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 II is the first Olympus to feature 4K video, and exploring this spec with Olympus’ image stabilization is a blast. 

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 II features on-screen audio level monitoring, tap-to-track autofocus, and face detection that works pretty well.

Olympus OM-D E-M1 II Price

Olympus OM D E M1 II Price

You can find the Olympus OM-D E-M1 II starting at $780 used on MPB. At that price, this is a great buy for a second camera body to add to your bag or as a first camera for someone that wants something extremely capable but without paying out the nose for it. 

And if you’ve never bought a used camera before, I understand if there is some trepidation about it. Buying used photography gear on places like Craigslist, for example, can be a wild ride that might end up with you getting a camera that is not at all as it was described.

mpb

That’s why I prefer to rely on outfits like MPB for buying used gear because they thoroughly inspect each camera and grade it so you know precisely what condition it is in before you buy. And if for some reason the camera you get isn’t the camera that was described, MPB will work with you to rectify the situation. 

Plus, MPB offers a six-month warranty on most items, so you get that peace of mind as well. Add in fast shipping, a great selection of gear, and fantastic customer service, and you have the makings of the ideal used gear buying experience!

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Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs OM-D E-M10 Mark II

Olympus OM D E M1 Mark II vs OM D E M10 Mark II

Today, two of the most popular mirrorless cameras on the market are the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II and the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II. And while they have been superseded by newer models (the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III and the OM-D E-M10 Mark III, respectively), they remain powerful cameras in 2022.

One reason they continue to fly off shelves is their incredibly low prices. Since the release of the newer models, the costs of the two cameras have dropped significantly, and now they are two of the best value buys out there. 

For even better bargains, I recommend buying a used camera. Not only are there tons of high-quality used cameras out there, but it’s also a great way to save money to spend on additional gear like lenses, tripods, etc. 

One place that has tons of used Olympus cameras in stock is MPB. They are a trustworthy and reliable online platform that sells used photo and video kits at unbeatable prices. Furthermore, all of their cameras are carefully hand-inspected by experienced product specialists and backed by warranties, allowing you to make your purchases confidently and worry-free. 

Below, I compare the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II and the OM-D E-M10 Mark II. First, I’ll cover their key features, and then we’ll look at their image and video performance. Now, without further ado, let’s dive in and check out these two amazing cameras! 

Table of Contents

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs OM-D E-M10 Mark II: Specs and Key Features

OM D E M1 Mark II 1

OM-D E-M1 Mark II

For starters, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II (shown above) was released in 2016, while the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II came out one year earlier, in 2015.

Both cameras feature high-resolution Four Thirds sensors, with the OM-D E-M1 Mark II having a slightly higher megapixel count (20MP vs 16MP). Additionally, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II has an upgraded TruePic VIII image processor, making it faster and giving it more substantial video capabilities.

One area where the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II has the upper hand is size and portability. It measures 120 x 80 x 47 mm, while the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II is a more robust 134 x 91 x 67 mm. At least part of this can be attributed to the fact that the OM-D E-M1 Mark II is weather-sealed, whereas the more compact OM-D E-M10 Mark II is not. 

Here’s a more in-depth look at the key specs and features of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II.

image 6

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Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs OM-D E-M10 Mark II: Imaging Performance

OM D E M10 Mark II 1

OM-D E-M10 Mark II

Both cameras consistently deliver detailed still images with excellent edge-to-edge sharpness thanks to their high-resolution sensors. Moreover, they have identical ISO ranges of 200 - 25,600. While low-light performance can’t compare to full-frame cameras, images remain relatively noise-free through ISO 6400.

Also, both cameras boast 5-Axis in-body image stabilization technology that Olympus claims adds up to 5.5 stops of exposure. This is particularly useful for photographers who like to shoot macro and wildlife photography.

Two areas where the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II tops the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II (shown above) are autofocus and continuous shooting. The OM-D E-M1 Mark II uses a hybrid AF system featuring 121 phase-detection points and 121 contrast-detection points. On the other hand, the OM-D E-M10 Mark II AF system only uses contrast-detection points, employing 81 of them.

In terms of continuous shooting, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II is no slouch (8.5 fps), but the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II has one of the fastest drives of any camera on the planet. Using its electronic shutter, it has a ridiculous 60 fps max burst rate, making it a terrific choice for sport and action photography. 

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs OM-D E-M10 Mark II: Video Performance

OM D E M1 Mark II back 1

OM-D E-M1 Mark II

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II (shown above) is a far superior video camera for serious videographers, filmmakers, YouTubers, and vloggers. It captures UHD and DCI 4K video at speeds of up to 30 frames per second and 1080p Full HD at 60 fps. 

The video quality of the 4K footage is excellent, no additional crop factor is applied, and rolling shutter issues are non-existent. Colors are bold and vibrant and need little or no correction in post-production. On top of that, it can output uncompressed 4:2:2 video using an HDMI.  

Alternatively, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II has a max video resolution of 1080p Full HD. Although 4K video would have been nice, the 1080p video quality is sharp and more than enough for non-professionals. Other cool video features of the OM-D E-M10 Mark II are a dedicated slow-motion mode and the option to record shareable clips of different lengths (1, 2, 4, and 8 seconds). 

Thanks to image stabilization, camera shake is reduced, and handheld shooting with both cameras is possible. One final thing I wanted to highlight is the rear LCD screens. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II has a fully articulating screen, while the OM-D E-M10 Mark II has a tilting screen. Vloggers and Youtubers especially will benefit immensely from the ability to see themselves on the articulating screen of the OM-D E-M1 Mark II. 

Final Thoughts on the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs the OM-D E-M10 Mark II

OM D E M10 Mark II top 1

Without a doubt, both of these fantastic cameras have a place in 2022. No matter which one you go with, you really can’t go wrong! With that said, here are my final recommendations. 

Courtesy of its higher resolution and better video capabilities, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II is the better choice for advanced and professional photographers. On the other hand, beginner photographers will love the cheaper, more compact, and easy-to-use Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II (shown above). 

Finally, don’t forget to check out MPB.com if you want to find killer Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II used deals and Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II used deals!

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Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III Review

Olympus OM D E M1 Mark III Review

photo byAlberto Duran Photography via iStock

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is a relatively new edition to this Olympus lineup as it only came out in February of 2020. 

This camera is a wonderful choice for professional photographers who like to dabble in all sorts of photography. That’s because the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III can keep up with sports photography, travel photography, wedding photography and more. 

Of course, all of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III specs mean that this camera does come with a hefty price. Still, it is one of the most versatile cameras I’ve ever seen, so I’d argue the price is more than worth it if you can afford it. 

In this Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III review, I’ll go over all of its features, the build quality, as well as its price. 

Olympus OM-D E-M1 III Specs

Olympus OM D E M1 III Specs

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III features a 20.4MP four thirds Live MOS sensor, which is paired with a TruePic IX image processor. 

The camera can shoot both regular 4K video and C4K video. When shooting 4K video the camera can work at up to 30fps, and when shooting C4K this rate drops to 24fps. 

The max burst mode is 60fps, which means that the camera is going to really appeal to sports and wildlife photographers. 

The camera features an incredible 2.36m-dot EVF and a 3” fully articulating touchscreen with 1.03m-dots. 

Of course, it also features Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. 

Other Olympus OM-D E-M1 III Specs Include:

  • 20.4MP four thirds Live MOS sensor
  • TruePic IX image processor
  • C4K video capabilities at up to 24p, 4K video capabilities at up to 30p
  • 3” fully articulating touchscreen with 1.03m-dots
  • 2.36m-dot EVF 
  • 60fps burst mode 
  • 7.5 stops of shake reduction 
  • 1.28 lbs

Olympus OM-D E-M1 III Body & Design

Olympus OM D E M1 III Body Design

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III body closely mimics the body of its predecessor, the E-M1 Mark II. However, there are a few changes. 

The biggest change is that the camera now features an 8-way joystick. This allows you to select autofocus points much more easily. 

The camera still features a weather-sealed body, which has been rated to IPX1, and a ton of customizable options. For instance, the two-position custom switch hasn’t changed from the older model. In fact, the camera actually adds another customizable option: four settings slots that can be changed to fit your needs. What is really fascinating about them is that you can actually change them when you are shooting. 

Additionally, the camera allows you to fully customize your menu. You can save 35 different menu items so that you really can be shooting with a new camera every single time you go out. This is a wonderful option for professional photographers who find themselves shooting a wedding one day and a high school football team the next. 

Other than this, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III design truly hasn’t changed much. 

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Olympus OM-D E-M1 III Build & Handling

Olympus OM D E M1 III Build Handling

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III weighs 1.28 lbs and measures 5.3” x 3.6” x 2.7”, meaning it just about exactly mimics the E-M1 Mark II. In fact, it is almost exactly the same weight and it is the same size. 

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III handling is also almost exactly identical, except for the fact that it comes with a joystick, which I already mentioned above. It also comes with an ISO button, which is new. 

You can charge this camera via a USB, which is excellent for those of us who travel a lot and don’t know when we will be next to electricity. The camera is also rated for 400,000 shutter actuations, which means that you will be handling it for years.

Olympus OM-D E-M1 III Video Performance

Huge shout out to INGAF for the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III video performance test above.

If you’ve shot with the E-M1 II before, then you’ve basically already got the gist of how this camera performs when it comes to video. This camera features 4K video, which is to be expected, but this 4K video is then combined with image stabilization that works incredibly well. This means that you can use your Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III for amazing shooting, even when you’re on the go.  

This will be an appealing quality both for professional vloggers and for travel photographers. The DCI “Cinema” 4K video allows you to shoot at up to 24p with 237Mbps output. It’s regular 4K video allows you to shoot at up to 30p with a 102Mbps bitrate. 

The camera comes with headphone and microphone ports, which both can be a little annoying to work with since they prevent the screen from having full mobility. 

The camera also features a flat picture profile and a minimal rolling shutter. 

Olympus OM-D E-M1 III Price

Olympus OM D E M1 III Price

As I’ve already hinted, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is pretty expensive. If you’re looking to purchase a brand new Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III, then you should expect to spend $1,800 on the body alone. 

However, I’m all for finding cheaper used versions of all my favorite cameras and the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is no different. 

As usual, I went in search of a used Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III on MPB, which is my favorite used camera retailer. Unfortunately, as of the publishing of this article, MPB is out of stock.

However, since MPB operates both in America and Europe, they get hundreds of new cameras every day. So, by the time you’re reading this article, they may very well have a Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III in stock. You’ll just have to check their Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III pageto find out. 

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Olympus OM-D E-M10 II Review

Olympus OM D E M10 II Review 1

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 II came out in the winter of 2015 and was a great addition to Olympus’ mirrorless camera lineup. 

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 II came with 5-axis image stabilization and an incredible EVF, but the camera wasn’t without flaws. So, if you’re planning on picking up an Olympus OM-D E-M10 II in 2021, then you definitely need to know what to look out for.

In this Olympus OM-D E-M10 II review, I’ll walk you through its design, and I’ll also share the Olympus OM-D E-M10 II specs with you. 

Olympus OM-D E-M10 II Specs

Olympus OM D E M10 II Specs 1

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 II features a 16MP sensor, a TruePic VII processor, and, frustratingly, Full HD video. That’s right, one of the worst parts of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 II spec list is the fact that it is missing 4K video capabilities.

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 II also features an ISO range of 200-25,600, which means that it’s low-light shooting still holds up even in 2021. 

The camera features an 81-point AF system, as well as a touchscreen that is very responsive. It also comes with 5-axis image stabilization, which is pretty impressive for a camera of this age. 

Other Olympus OM-D E-M10 II Specs Include:

  • 16MP sensor
  • TruePic VII processor
  • Full HD video capabilities at up to 60p
  • 2.36m-dot EVF with 100% coverage
  • 3” tilting touchscreen with 1.04m-dots
  • 8fps burst mode
  • 81-point AF system
  • Built-in flash
  • 320-shot battery life
  • .86 lbs

Olympus OM-D E-M10 II Body & Design

Olympus OM D E M10 II Body Design 2

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 II body measures 4.7” x 3.3” x 1.8” and weighs .86 lbs, which makes it competitively sized for a mirrorless released a few years ago. 

But, the true draw of this camera is its design. Olympus is wonderful at creating mirrorless cameras that look retro, while still being practical. The camera looks like something out of the 1960s, while still being functional.

Olympus OM D E M10 II Body Design

This camera is designed very similarly to the original E-M10, which was released a year before the Olympus OM-D E-M10 II. But, on the other hand, the camera is also designed very similarly to the E-M5 II. So, if you’re an Olympus shooter, you’ll feel right at home shooting with the Olympus OM-D E-M10 II.

This means that it comes with a built-in flash, a large and responsive tilting screen, and Wi-Fi. The camera does come in a few different color options so that you can pick one which suits you. It is offered in either black and silver or all black. 

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Olympus OM-D E-M10 II Build & Handling

Olympus OM D E M10 II Build Handling

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 II build is pretty standard. It is made out of magnesium alloy and feels good in your hand. Though it does not come with any weatherproofing, it also doesn’t feel cheap like other cameras that don’t feature weatherproofing sometimes do.

The one real problem I have with the feel of this camera is the fact that its battery door feels pretty cheap. I would be nervous that I would break it if I owned this camera. However, overall, the camera feels expensive. 

Olympus OM D E M10 II Build Handling 2

The EVF is one of the best parts of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 II handling. Its high resolution means that you’ll feel as if there isn’t a camera between yourself and your scene. 

One of the worst parts of the camera is its grip. Frankly, it absolutely isn’t big enough. If I were to get this camera, I would be getting the ECG-3 grip accessory because I would be too nervous I would drop the camera without it. 

Olympus OM-D E-M10 II Video Performance

Huge thanks to Touch Technology Review for the Olympus OM-D E-M10 II video performance test above.  

As I already mentioned, this camera shoots Full HD video at up to 60p, though you can also choose to shoot at 30, 25 or 24p, or a slow-mo option.

As is typical of an Olympus, the camera features different special effects when you’re shooting video, like echo and different fades. 

Unfortunately, you don’t get a microphone jack with this camera, so I definitely don’t recommend it for anyone who relies on their videos to make money. The built-in microphones just aren’t good enough. 

Olympus OM-D E-M10 II Price

Olympus OM D E M10 II Price 1

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 II price is not what it used to be when it first came out. Despite the fact that it came out in 2015, you may still be able to find a new Olympus OM-D E-M10 II for somewhere around $500.  

However, I highly recommend that you don’t do that. One of the biggest benefits of buying a camera that came out a few years ago is the fact that you can buy it used and save a ton of money doing so. 

In fact, if you look for the Olympus OM-D E-M10 II on MPB (our recommended used camera retailer), you can find it for as little as $290. Even if you want an Olympus OM-D E-M10 II in “like new” condition, you can still get one on MPB for $335. So, you would essentially be saving $200 for a camera in the same condition, just because you’re willing to buy from a third-party. 

And MPB is a reliable third-party. They offer a 30-day return policy on each piece of gear that they sell, so you can feel confident buying with them. For a full list of other reasons why we recommend MPB, you can read our MPB Review in the learn more links below. 

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Olympus OM-D E-M10 III vs. Olympus OM-D E-M5 II

Olympus OM D E M10 III vs. Olympus OM D E M5 II 2

Photo by Matheus Bertelli from Pexels

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 III and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II dropped in 2017 and 2015 and both function as mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras.

Both of these cameras feature a 15.9MP sensor, both are Micro Four Thirds format, and both feature in-body stabilization. 

Since these cameras are so similar, it makes sense that an Olympus OM-D E-M10 III vs. Olympus OM-D E-M5 II debate has been raging for nearly three years.

But, since they are so similar, where do they differ? 

OM-D E-M10 III vs OM-D E-M5 II Specs

OM D E M10 III vs OM D E M5 II Specs

*Olympus E-M5 II pictured above 

The Olympus E-M5 II, although it features a 15.9MP sensor, an ISO range of 200-25,600, and an electronic viewfinder with 2360K dots just like the Olympus E-M10 III, made a name for itself with a solid weather-sealed body, a 10fps burst mode, and an advanced LCD screen for its age.

Olympus OM-D E-M5 II Specs:

  • 15.9MP four-thirds sensor
  • ISO range of 200-25,600
  • Full 1080p HD video
  • 2360K dots electronic viewfinder
  • 3.0” LCD swivel touchscreen with 1037k dots
  • 10fps burst mode
  • In-body image stabilization
  • Weather-sealed body
  • 310-shot battery life
  • 1.03 lbs

OM D E M10 III vs OM D E M5 II Specs 2

*Olympus OM-D E-M10 III pictured above

Olympus OM-D E-M10 III Specs:

  • 15.9MP four-thirds sensor
  • ISO range of 200-25,600
  • 4K video capabilities
  • 3.0” tilting touchscreen LCD with 1040k dots
  • 8.6fps burst mode
  • In-body image stabilization
  • 330shot battery life
  • .9 lbs

As you can see, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 III features 4K video and a slightly improved touchscreen. It’s also a bit lighter. 

 

Recommended Photography Books

 

OM-D E-M10 III vs OM-D E-M5 II Body & Design 

OM D E M10 III vs OM D E M5 II Body Design

*Olympus OM-D E-M10 III pictured above 

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 III comes with a built-in flash, which is one of the design benefits of this camera. 

OM D E M10 III vs OM D E M5 II Body Design 2

*Olympus E-M5 II pictured above 

My favorite thing about the Olympus E-M5 II’s body is that it has an articulated screen that can be flipped to be forward-facing, which is a nice feature for vloggers.

The Olympus E-M5 II can also connect to an external microphone, whereas the E-M10 III cannot.  

The Olympus E-M5 II is made of only magnesium alloy, while the E-M10 III features metal plates on the top and bottom of the body. 

Overall, both of these camera bodies are extremely similar. 

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OM-D E-M10 III vs OM-D E-M5 II Build & Handling

OM D E M10 III vs OM D E M5 II Build Handling

*Olympus OM-D E-M10 III pictured above 

As previously mentioned, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 III is slightly lighter than the E-M5 II. It’s also slightly smaller at 3.3 x 4.8 x 2 inches , as opposed to 3.3 x 4.9 x 1.8 inches for the E-M5 II.

The E-M5 II is also splash and dust-proof, while the E-M10 III features no safety precautions like this. 

Both the Olympus OM-D E-M10 III and E-M5 II are especially thick compared to regular cameras, so neither of them would be extremely comfortable for someone with smaller hands. 

OM D E M10 III vs OM D E M5 II Build Handling 2

*Olympus E-M5 II pictured above  

Both of these cameras can use the exact same lenses, which comes in handy if you have a friend that sided against you in the OM-D E-M10 III vs OM-D E-M5 II debate.  

But, again, the build of both of these cameras are so similar that you would be hard pressed to choose between them from this category alone. 

 

 

OM-D E-M10 III vs OM-D E-M5 II Video Performance 

As featured in this short video by Picture Palette Productions, the E-M10 III has a leg up on the E-M5 II, if only because it features 4K shooting. 

However, as you can see in this short video by Tyler Lovelady, the E-M5 II still shoots gorgeous video, just in 1080p instead of 4K. 

 

 

OM-D E-M10 III vs OM-D E-M5 II Price 

OM D E M10 III vs OM D E M5 II Price 

*Olympus OM-D E-M10 III pictured above

You can find the Olympus OM-D E-M10 III on Amazon for $450, or used on MPB starting at $315. 

OM D E M10 III vs OM D E M5 II Price 2 

*Olympus E-M5 II pictured above 

You can find the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II on Amazon for $1,000, or used on MPB starting at $360.  

Whichever of these cameras suit your needs better, clearly, there are substantial savings available if you buy used.

mpb 

MPB is one of my favorite used gear sites because they grade each and every item they list for sale, that way you know exactly what kind of condition the item is in before you buy. 

Add in excellent customer service, fast shipping, and a 6-month warranty on purchased items, and you have a recipe for getting top-quality gear without breaking the bank.

What’s not to like about that?!

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Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV Review

Olympus OM D E M10 Mark IV Review

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV just dropped a few months ago, which means I’ve given myself enough time to play around with it to do a full Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV review.

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is yet another entry-level Olympus model with the look and feel of a much more high range Olympus Micro Four Thirds camera. 

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV features a 20MP sensor, in-body image stabilization which is pretty impressive for its class, and some specs that vloggers are going to love. 

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV replaced the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III, which came out in September of 2017 and has been absolutely loved by beginner photographers ever since. So the question has to be asked: does the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV live up to the hype of its predecessor?

Let’s find out. 

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV Specs

Olympus OM D E M10 Mark IV Specs

As I already mentioned, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is an entry-level DSLR type camera body with a 20MP sensor. As we are seeing more and more often in entry-level cameras, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV comes with 5-axis in-body image stabilization, which is great news for all photographers, but vloggers specifically.

Some of the other Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV specs that vloggers are excited about include the flip-down touchscreen display, which makes it easy to take photos and videos on the go or in the studio. Another feature vloggers should love? The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV comes with 4K video and an excellent AF system. 

Other Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV Specs Include:

  • 20MP Live MOS sensor
  • TruePic VIII processor
  • 121-point Contrast Detection AF system
  • EVF with 2.36m-dots 
  • 3” tiltable touchscreen with 1.03m-dots 
  • 8.7fps burst mode
  • 4K video at 30p, 25p, and 24p; Full HD video at 60p, 50p, IPB
  • ISO range of 80-25,600
  • Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
  • 360-shot battery life
  • 0.84 lbs

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV Body & Design

Olympus OM D E M10 Mark IV Body Design 1

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV body is incredibly reminiscent of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III body. It’s super light at just 0.84 lbs, which means that a lot of the body is made out of plastic. I understand that this can be a dealbreaker for some photographers, but I don’t think the plastic feels especially cheap on this model. Besides, the top plate and the dials are all made of metal. 

It measures 4.8” x 1.9” x 3.3”. I personally think this is the sweet spot for an entry-level model such as this. It’s compact enough to not overwhelm a new shooter, while still being large enough to be comfortable to hold and to fit all of the necessary controls that a shooter who is advancing in their photography might need in the coming years. 

If you’re into the aesthetics of a camera, and let’s face it most entry-level photographers are, then the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV provides a beautiful vintage look that will impress younger shooters especially.

Olympus OM D E M10 Mark IV Body Design 2

A lot of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV design is just plain fun to work with. For instance, if you push the power button further than the “on” position, the camera will pop the flash for you. 

These are obviously not features a professional photographer would need or want, but for a photographer who has never worked with a professional camera before, they’re great. 

The top plate features two different control dials, which means an entry-level photographer has a much greater chance of being able to grow with this camera, a mode dial, and two different customizable buttons. 

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Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV Build & Handling

Olympus OM D E M10 Mark IV Build Handling 1

Obviously the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV handling is going to be pretty awesome based on its specs alone. Very few cameras come with a flip-down touchscreen LCD like the one the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV has. You can tilt it to a variety of angles depending upon what you’re trying to capture.

Additionally, this camera features a 360-shot battery life, which is above average for a camera of this price range directed at beginner photographers. I still don’t think it’s wildly impressive, but you likely won’t need to bring an additional battery with you for longer shoots unless you know you’re going to be shooting a lot of video.

Olympus OM D E M10 Mark IV Build Handling 2 

This is great news for photographers who are looking to keep their load light and are purchasing this camera for its size.

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV build has changed slightly from its older model and some of these changes have helped with the ergonomics of this camera. For example, the grip on this model means your hand is going to be sitting higher up on the camera body, which makes it easier to get your fingers to all of the controls on the top plate. It also feels really secure without a wrist strap.  

The menu on this camera still hasn’t changed much at all. For someone who has used an Olympus camera before, this is great news. For those who have and don’t like it, less so. 

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV Video Performance

When it comes to the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV video performance, photographers are going to be impressed. You can watch the video by Robin Wong to see a full video performance breakdown on this camera, but let me give you the down low.  

You can shoot in either 4K or Full HD with this camera. When shooting in 4K, you can do so at either 30p, 25p, or 24p. When shooting in Full HD, you can do so at 60p, 50p, or IPB. 

Regardless of how you’re shooting, though, you’re going to be impressed with the in-body image stabilization when you’re shooting video. While the in-body image stabilization is a nice feature to have when shooting stills, it works flawlessly when shooting video. It keeps everything incredibly smooth.

You’ll also love the fact that this camera comes with a flip-down LCD, so you’ll be able to take videos of yourself without needing any sort of stand. It’s one of the reasons travel vloggers have taken a liking to this camera so quickly. 

Now, the battery life on this camera isn’t incredibly long, so if you’re purchasing it for videos specifically then I definitely recommend you purchase an extra battery just in case. 

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV Price

Olympus OM D E M10 Mark IV Price

One of the things that makes the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is its price. The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV price is currently $550.

Keep in mind that, as a brand new camera, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is going to be a bit more expensive right now. It’s why I suggest watching MPB’s Olympuspage for a cheaper version of all of Olympus’ gear.

Another great option for someone who doesn’t feel like they can afford a brand new Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV right now is to opt for the older version of this camera instead.

MPB has 5 Olympus OM-D E-M10 III bodies in stock right now and they start at just $330. Plus, every single one of those bodies is in “like new” condition, so you’re essentially saving $200 just by purchasing something that isn’t coming straight from the manufacturer. 

You can read all about why I shop on MPB in the learn more links below, but I strongly believe that no photographer truly needs the absolute latest camera body. It’s sort of a controversial belief, but it’s true, and MPB makes buying slightly older camera bodies safer and more efficient. 

This way, you can take all of the money you otherwise would have spent on the newest camera body with slightly better specs and buy something your photography business actually needs, like new subscriptions or new lenses. 

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Olympus OM-D E-M10 Review

Olympus OM D E M10 Review 1

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 came out in 2014. It was the third camera that Olympus released in its OM-D lineup. The Olympus OM-D E-M10 is built around a 16MP Four Thirds sensor. 

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 was a really great camera for both beginners and hobbyists when it was first released. I would argue that it is definitely still a good camera for beginners and those with a few more advanced photography skills. 

Most of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 specs are still relevant in 2021, particularly if you’re planning on shooting portrait photography.  

In this Olympus OM-D E-M10 review, I’ll walk you through its price, all of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 features, and its video performance. 

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Specs

Olympus OM D E M10 Specs 1

This camera features a 16MP Four Thirds sensor and a TruePic VII processor. 

The camera comes with a natural ISO range of 200-25,600, so it is good to go for low light shooting. 

The autofocus system on this camera features 81 AF points. The AF system includes contrast detect, continuous, touch and face detection modes. 

The 3” touchscreen tilts so that you can capture shots from every angle. It is also surprisingly responsive for a camera of this age.

The camera’s electronic viewfinder features 100% coverage and a 1.44m-dot resolution. 

The camera doesn’t feature 4K video, but it does feature Full HD video at up to 30p.

Other Olympus OM-D E-M10 Specs Include:

  • 16MP Four Thirds sensor
  • TruePic VII processor
  • ISO range of 200-25,600
  • 81-point AF system
  • 3” tilting touchscreen with 1.03m-dots
  • 1.44m-dot EVF with 100% coverage
  • 8fps burst mode
  • Full HD video capabilities at up to 30p
  • Built-in flash
  • 320-shot battery life

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Body & Design

Olympus OM D E M10 Body Design 1

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 body measures 4.6” x 3.3” x 2.1” and weighs .87 lbs. One thing to note about the Olympus OM-D E-M10 design is that it does feel a little cheap in a few ways.

 For instance, the ports, which include a micro-HDMI and a USB/AV output, are covered by a rubber door that feels really cheap. 

The camera also isn’t weather-proofed at all. You can tell, too. It’s almost as if the camera feels a little disappointing.

 For anyone familiar with this lineup by Olympus, the design of the camera will feel automatically familiar. It is built very similarly to the E-M5 in terms of its weight, size, and button placement. 

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Olympus OM-D E-M10 Build & Handling

Olympus OM D E M10 Build Handling 1

As I already mentioned, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 build feels a little cheap. However, I personally think that the Olympus OM-D E-M10 handling makes up for it.

Since the camera is so small and lightweight, it makes for the perfect everyday camera. I personally think that the grip is already excellent, but you can also purchase an additional grip if you would like to.

All of the dials on the back of the camera sit on a platform so that you don’t run into any issues with accidentally knocking buttons you weren’t intending on using. 

The camera’s CIPA rating is also pretty impressive. You’ll be able to get well over 300 shots without needing to charge your battery or bring an extra one with you. 

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Video Performance

Thank you to Matthew Wong for the Olympus OM-D E-M10 video test above.

 Given the fact that the Olympus OM-D E-M10 did come out so many years ago, you won’t be finding 4K video capabilities here. However, the camera does manage Full HD video recording at up to 30p.

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 features a dedicated movie button so that you can start recording video easily. It also lets you get still images from your video, which is a nice additional feature.

The built-in stereo microphone, as mentioned in the video above, is really sensitive. This is a big bonus because the Olympus OM-D E-M10 does not feature any way to attach an external microphone. So, you’ll have to deal with the audio you can capture internally.

 I was pleasantly surprised to find out that the camera features both a tilting screen and a touchscreen (given its age). This helps you to keep the focus on your subject when filming video. 

The camera also features image stabilization, but it is 3-axis. 

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Price

Olympus OM D E M10 Price 1

Given the fact that the Olympus OM-D E-M10 is now 7 years old, you can get it for really cheap online. It’s one of the reasons I swear by purchasing slightly older cameras, even if you have to give up some features in order to do so.

Before I published this article, I checked the MPB page for the Olympus OM-D E-M10 and found that you can get an Olympus OM-D E-M10 body for as little as $174. 

Conversely, if you’re more interested in an Olympus OM-D E-M10 in excellent shape, then you can purchase one for $179-$199. 

Then, you can take all of the money you’ve saved by purchasing a used camera and turn around and spend it on additional camera gear, like some new lenses. 

I typically recommend that photographers should purchase used camera gear from MPB because of their rating system. It’s one of the most accurate rating systems I’ve ever encountered. This means that you know exactly what your new-to-you camera will look like when it shows up at your front door.

But, I also recommend that you shop with MPB because they allow you to trade in your old gear and use whatever money you make off of it towards your new purchases. This helps to encourage me to clean out my gear closet on a more regular basis and ends up saving me a lot of money in the long run.

MPB also offers a gracious return policy so that you don’t lose out on any money if you recognize that the camera you just purchased actually isn’t going to work well for you.

For more information about purchasing used cameras from MPB, check out the MPB review in the learn more links below. 

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Olympus OM-D E-M1X Review

Olympus OM D E M1X Review

The Olympus OM-D E-M1X is a micro four thirds, professional-grade sports and action camera that dropped in early 2019. 

I haven’t seen a ton of coverage on the Olympus OM-D E-M1X since it dropped, probably because of its prohibitive price tag, but it’s a phenomenal camera that deserves its moment in the spotlight.

Some of the specs of the Olympus OM-D E-M1X are to be expected. For instance, its AF system is lightning-fast and its build is incredibly rugged. Still, there are some specs on this camera that very few people expected before it dropped. For example, it has a much smaller sensor than people expected it to.  

Now, if you aren’t a professional sports or action photographer, then this camera really isn’t going to do much for you. But, if you do work within one of these photography niches, then this Olympus OM-D E-M1X review will be really helpful for you. 

I’m going to take you through the basic Olympus OM-D E-M1X features, the more specific Olympus OM-D E-M1X specs, and give you a few thoughts on the camera overall. 

Olympus OM-D E-M1X Specs

Olympus OM D E M1X Specs 1

Let’s get right into the specs of the Olympus OM-D E-M1X.  

The first thing that people are pretty shocked about when they read the specs of the Olympus OM-D E-M1X is that it only uses a 20MP sensor. Typically, a lot of photographers think that a smaller sensor equates a less professional camera. But, I disagree. I think it’s less about the number of megapixels and more about how the camera uses them, since sensors are so advanced nowadays anyway. 

  • 20MP four thirds sensor
  • 2x TruePic VIII processor
  • 121 phase detection AF system
  • ISO range of 200-25,600
  • 4K video at 30fps or C4K video at 24fps
  • 2.36m-dots EVF with 0.84x magnification
  • 3” fully articulating touchscreen with 1037K-dots
  • 60fps burst mode
  • Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 
  • 2.19 lbs with both batteries
  • 870-shot battery life

Olympus OM D E M1X Specs 2

I do need to say a word about the battery life on the Olympus OM-D E-M1X…

While the CIPA rating is 870-shots, there is a “quick sleep mode” that you can use which extensively lengthens the amount of time you can shoot. According to Olympus, if you use the “quick sleep mode” all of the time when shooting with this camera, you can actually get 2,580 shots out of your batteries before needing to recharge them. 

Olympus OM-D E-M1X Body & Design

Olympus OM D E M1X Body Design 1

The Olympus OM-D E-M1X body is definitely odd, in that it has dual grips. So, for anyone adverse to the idea of a slightly bigger camera, this may not be the camera for you. I have seen it labelled as “bulky” by different reviewers for this reason.

But, if you can get over its body shape, this is a camera that is very rugged. 

The odd body shape also allows for a better battery life. It also allows you to shoot vertically much more comfortably. 

The most unique feature to the design of this camera, other than how box-like it is, is the fact that the power button is located on the left side of the camera. Otherwise, most of the controls are where you’d expect them to be. Since this camera is much larger than a traditional micro four thirds camera, the buttons are also properly spaced out so you don’t need to worry about shooting with gloves. 

Olympus OM-D E-M1X Build & Handling

Olympus OM D E M1X Build Handling 1

Since the Olympus OM-D E-M1X handling is a major selling point of this camera, I’m going to go pretty in depth with this section.

The Olympus OM-D E-M1X build is solid. Its environmental resistance is rated as IPX1, which means that your camera will not be damaged should it accidentally get caught in a light rainstorm for a few minutes. As sports photographers know, this is absolutely essential. You can’t stop shooting if the game hasn’t stopped, regardless of the weather.

I briefly mentioned the incredible battery life on this camera under the specs section. It can last for over 2,000 shots if you only use the “quick sleep mode,” but will otherwise last for nearly 900. I think the battery life on a camera is one of the most important aspects of its handling, since I tend to travel a lot and don’t know when I won’t have reliable electricity. This camera definitely passed my test.

Olympus OM D E M1X Build Handling 2

Another important thing, especially for sports photographers, is lag time. Thankfully, the viewfinder on the Olympus OM-D E-M1X is minimal, which means that you can track all of the action. While the viewfinder resolution will be slightly lower when you’re shooting in burst mode, I didn’t find it too bad. 

I found the menu on this camera to be very easy to use. It will be especially easy to use if you’ve owned an Olympus before. 

You can customize a lot about this camera and it does not come with an “index” page, instead opting for sections simply labelled alphabetically. 

The one problem I did see with the menu on this camera is that it isn’t color coded. I’ll always prefer a menu that is color coded, just because it's how my brain works, and I don’t think I’m the only one that wishes Olympus would have included this option into its menu. 

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Olympus OM-D E-M1X Video Performance

There’s only so much you can say about a camera’s video performance without actually showing a video taken by that camera. 

I’ve chosen a video test by DPReview that you can view above. 

The Olympus OM-D E-M1X video performance specs are just as good as the real thing, though. 

It can shoot Cinema 4K video at 24p, or regular 4K at 30p. On the opposite end of the spectrum, you can also shoot slow-motion footage at 1080/120p. 

Olympus OM D E M1X Video Performance

The Olympus OM-D E-M1X was also the only Olympus camera that allowed videographers to use Log capture when it first came out.

Some videographers have complained that the Olympus OM-D E-M1X design is lacking in certain videography aspects, though. For instance, the camera comes with an external recorder, which is great, a cable retaining clip to prevent your HDMI from coming out, which is wonderful, and 1/24th and 1/48th shutter speeds for videographers working with 360-degree videos, but Olympus did not create a way for this camera to output a 10-bit signal over HDMI.  

It’s small issues like this that may frustrate videographers who purchase this camera specifically for video. 

Still, at the price point, it’s a wonderful camera even with a few small problems.

Olympus OM-D E-M1X Price

Olympus OM D E M1X Price

While the Olympus OM-D E-M1X is still relatively new, since it came out early last year, there are still a good amount of them for sale on used camera sites.

As is true of any professional sport or action camera, the Olympus OM-D E-M1X is incredibly expensive, so I suggest you buy one used in order to save some money.

The Olympus OM-D E-M1X price on MPB, my favorite used camera retailer, starts at $1,850. Every Olympus OM-D E-M1X available on MPB right now is in either “excellent” or “like new” shape, which means you’re going to get an almost identical shooting experience, while still saving hundreds of dollars that you can spend on better lenses. 

mpb

You can read more about why I use MPB in the learn more link below, but suffice it to say that, if you’ve worked in the industry as long as I have, you get pretty exhausted working with sites like Ebay or Craigslist. You never really know what shape your used camera gear is going to be in when it arrives at your door, but with MPB, every camera is rated by professional photographers. I’ve yet to purchase a camera I was unhappy with. 

And, like in the case of the Olympus OM-D E-M1X, you can choose whether or not options like “original packaging” matter to you. 

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Olympus OM-D E-M5 II Review

Olympus OM D E M5 II Review 1

Though the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II came out in the mid 2010s, I still think it’s a pretty nifty camera if you’re into the whole Micro Four Thirds category. 

For starters, this camera is an Olympus, which means that it is weather-sealed, compact, and well-built. I’ve had mine since a year after the camera was originally announced and, if I’m being honest, I’ve beat the crap out of it. It takes it like a champ.

This camera also comes with a 10fps burst mode, which is excellent for adventure shooting. It’s still my go to whenever I’m going on a camping trip with my son, since I know it can handle the weather and it can keep up with a very bouncy 6-year-old.

Plus, since it came out so long ago, you can find one for really cheap online. In this Olympus OM-D E-M5 II review, I’ll walk you through all of its specs, I’ll explain the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II design, and finally I’ll show you why I like this camera’s handling so much. 

Olympus OM-D E-M5 II Specs

Olympus OM D E M5 II Specs 1

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 II features a 16MP CMOS sensor. Since it is an SLR-style mirrorless camera, this isn’t too terrible given the camera’s age. 

It also features a TruePic VII processor, an ISO range of 200-25,600, and 5-axis image stabilization so that you can take awesome photos on the go.

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 II also features a 3” fully articulating touchscreen with 1.03m-dots and an electronic viewfinder with 100% coverage. The EVF features a 2.36m-dot resolution.

The camera can shoot Full HD video at up to 60p. It also comes with built-in Wi-Fi, a BLN-1 lithium ion battery that is capable of up to 310 shots per charge, and a relatively small body that weighs just 1.03 lbs. 

Other Olympus OM-D E-M5 II Specs Include:

  • 16MP CMOS sensor
  • TruePic VII processor
  • ISO range of 200-25,600
  • 3” fully articulating touchscreen with 1.03m-dots
  • 2.36m-dot EVF with 100% coverage
  • 10fps burst mode
  • 81-point AF system
  • Full HD video at up to 60p
  • 310-shot battery 
  • Built-in Wi-Fi
  • 1.03 lbs

Olympus OM-D E-M5 II Body & Design

Olympus OM D E M5 II Body Design 1

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 II body measures 4.9” x 3.3” x 2.0” and weighs just over 1 lb. I think this is my personal sweet spot for a camera since it feels comfortable in my hands, but doesn’t seem too bulky or heavy.

As I already mentioned, this camera was designed to be weather-sealed, so you don’t have to worry as much if you get caught outside in bad weather. In fact, unless you’re going to opt for a professional-level DSLR, I think that the weather-sealing on this camera is some of the best I’ve seen. 

The only issue you may have with the design of this camera is the fact that some of the buttons are made out of plastic. Given the sturdy magnesium alloy that the rest of the camera is made out of, it’s a little disappointing. 

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Olympus OM-D E-M5 II Build & Handling

Olympus OM D E M5 II Build Handling 1

When it comes to the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II build, I’ve pretty much said all I have to say. This camera is built very seriously. You won’t need to worry about it while out doing some serious shooting.

I do have a few problems with the handling, though. This camera doesn’t come with a built-in flash, which isn’t great for most amateur photographers who aren’t going to have their own external flashes. Moreover, the camera’s battery isn’t excellent. 310 shots isn’t bad, but I like to get at least a few more in most of my cameras. 

But, you do get a ton of customization options with this camera that will make up for any handling issues you may find. For this reason, don’t expect to be able to operate this camera straight out of the box. Take some time to learn all of your options first. 

Olympus OM-D E-M5 II Video Performance

Huge thanks to Mathieu Gasquet for the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II video performance test above.

As you can tell from this video, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II produces some excellent footage. It features image stabilization, Full HD video footage at up to 60p, and a max bitrate of 77Mbps.

In fact, when the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II first came out, one of its major selling points was all of the new video features it offered. Of course, many of these features are now out of date for serious videographers, but a serious videographer isn’t going to be looking at a camera that is 6 years old. Since you are, I’m going to assume that some slightly outdated video specs aren’t going to be a huge turn off for you. 

In fact, Olympus actually bet on this as well. They made a statement about the lack of 4K capabilities in the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II when it came out. They specifically noted that, since the camera was aimed at amateurs, they didn’t think it was necessary to include. 

You can record clips of up to 29 minutes in length. It also comes with a microphone socket and focus peaking. 

Olympus OM-D E-M5 II Price

Olympus OM D E M5 II Price 1

Since the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II did come out six years ago, you will be happy to know that the  Olympus OM-D E-M5 II price is nothing like it used to be. When the  Olympus OM-D E-M5 II first came out, it cost nearly $1,000.  

But, since you can only find used Olympus OM-D E-M5 II bodies available for sale now, you can find them for under $400.

And, if you know where to look, you can find them for even less. Before publishing this article, I checked MPB (which is one of my favorite used camera gear websites) and they have five  Olympus OM-D E-M5 II bodies available for sale, starting at just $369. 

Each of the cameras at this price are in good condition, but if you’re really serious about getting the full experience, then MPB has one Olympus OM-D E-M5 II in “like new” condition for $425. The only thing is that you’re going to have to act fast since MPB is pretty popular.

If you are nervous about buying an Olympus OM-D E-M5 II, since you’re nervous about buying used cameras, then you should definitely check out our full MPB Review in the learn more links below. MPB is a trusted website with a grading system that was created by professional photographers. Plus, they offer a really nice return policy if you aren’t totally happy with your purpose. 

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We Recommend


Olympus OM-D E-M5 III Review

Olympus OM D E M5 III Review

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 III is definitely a mouth full; does the expectation for this camera live up to its name? 

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 III was Olympus’ much anticipated update to the line. It came out in 2019 and, I think, brought the Micro Four Thirds format to the forefront of the discussion about professional-grade cameras.  

For what it is, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 III is relatively small and lightweight, yet it packs a 20MP MFT sensor and one of the better in-body stabilization systems that I’ve seen on a camera at this price range (the camera is definitely aimed at enthusiasts, or beginners looking to grow into their equipment).  

If you’re reading this article hoping that the Olympus OM-D E-M5 III doesn’t live up to everyone’s expectations because you don’t have the money to splurge on a new camera right now, you’re going to be sorely disappointed.

But, if you’re reading this article hoping you can find a cheaper version of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 III, then I’ve got some news for you. Keep reading to find out. 

Olympus OM-D E-M5 III Specs

Olympus OM D E M5 III Specs

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 III specs are really impressive. This little camera packs a 20MP MFT sensor, a 127-phase AF point system, 4K video, C4K video, and 1080p at 120fps video capabilities. 

I’ve noticed that a lot of the cameras I’ve been doing reviews of lately have less than spectacular video capabilities, so I’m really happy to announce that this is not the case with this Olympus OM-D E-M5 III review. Of course, I’m going to touch more on this later.

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 III is actually the first camera in this lineup that comes with on-sensor phase detect autofocus (for both face and eyes). 

It also comes with an external flash and a vari-angle LCD. 

Other Olympus OM-D E-M5 III Specs:

  • 20MP MFT sensor
  • TruPic VIII image processor
  • 127 phase detection AF points
  • ISO range of 200-6,400
  • C4K, 4K, and 1080p at 120fps video capabilities
  • OLED EVF with 2.36m-dots
  • 10fps burst mode with mechanical shutter, 15/30fps Pro Capture
  • Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
  • .912 lbs
  • 310-shot battery life

Olympus OM-D E-M5 III Body & Design

Olympus OM D E M5 III Body Design

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 III body is compact, weighing less than 1 lb. It measures 4.92 x 3.34 x 1.92 inches. The body is also weatherproofed. 

Now, the body is actually one problem a lot of people have with the Olympus OM-D E-M5 III design because it is partially made of plastic. Photographers argue that this makes the camera feel like its lower quality. I don’t necessarily disagree with them, but I do think that it is a very small price to pay for enthusiast photographers who are looking for an affordable, yet capable camera. It’s just something to keep in mind. 

Olympus OM D E M5 III Body Design 2

Every other part of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 III build is excellent. It manages to fit a large amount of controls on a relatively small body without feeling cramped. Olympus did this by creating a large mode dial and two customisable control dials on the top plate that come with a lever to switch these customisable control dials between multiple functions. It’s clever and is definitely spoiling enthusiast photographers, if you ask me. 

The camera also comes with a rear four way controller that’s rather small, but handy. 

As I mentioned, this camera comes with a vari-angle LCD and an EVF with enough resolution for enthusiasts. This camera comes with a larger grip than past models,which is welcome. 

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Olympus OM-D E-M5 III Build & Handling

Olympus OM D E M5 III Build Handling

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 III handling is really fun. It’s weatherproofed to IPX1 standards, which means that you could feasibly take this camera out into the rain to shoot and you wouldn’t have any problems with it. Professional photographers would, of course, warn you against such recklessness regardless.

Like I mentioned above, there are plenty of customisable options with this camera. Additionally, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 III features a menu system that feels more like a menu for enthusiasts on the more experienced side of things. I would be a little worried to hand the menu system to a beginner, but someone who is more experienced will probably be thankful they have so many options. 

Olympus OM D E M5 III Build Handling 2

One frustrating aspect of the handling on this camera is that the eye sensor doesn’t automatically turn off when you start to use the screen, like it does with different Olympus cameras. While this obviously isn’t going to kill your shooting experience, it will kill your battery.  

Speaking of the battery, this camera can shoot a little over 300 shots on one charge. Since this isn’t quite enough for me, I carry an additional battery with me when I’m shooting with this camera.

Olympus OM-D E-M5 III Video Performance

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 III video performance is much better than other cameras in a similar price range and other cameras targeted at a similar audience. You can watch an in-depth field test by Gordon Laingabove. 

As Laing mentions, this camera’s video performance makes it the perfect option for professional vloggers. It can create Cinema 4K video at 24p and up to 237mbps. Conversely, you can shoot 4K footage at up to 30p. 

The camera’s sensor-shift stabilizer does a fairly good job when shooting video, but I would still add a digital stabilizer if you’re serious about the footage you’re getting. 

Olympus OM D E M5 III Video Performance

The camera’s tracking is smooth, so long as there are not a ton of distractions in the background. For instance, I wouldn’t recommend this camera to a videographer who mainly shoots travel videos in crowded tourist spots, but it would be an excellent choice for a food vlogger who eats out at different restaurants. 

Now, a lot of videographers do point out that, for serious videographers, the jump to the Olympus E-M2 Mark II seems logical. But, for an additional $700, I personally don’t think it’s worth it. 

The biggest problems you’re going to have using the Olympus OM-D E-M5 III instead of the Olympus E-M2 Mark II is that your footage will be a little soft at times. This gets worse when you shoot in 4K, as opposed to C4K, so I recommend staying in C4K if at all possible. 

Olympus OM-D E-M5 III Price

Olympus OM D E M5 III Price 1

I previously mentioned that the Olympus OM-D E-M5 III price is relatively good for the features it comes with. While I stand by this, since the Olympus OM-D E-M5 III is for sale for just under $1,000 brand new, I really stand by it if you purchase the Olympus OM-D E-M5 III second hand.  

MPB, PhotographyTalk’s favorite used camera retailer, currently has a Olympus OM-D E-M5 III available for only $769.This model is also in excellent condition which, according to MPB’s website, means the camera has “only the lightest signs of use.”

So much so, that it actually comes in its original packaging. 

For a camera that is relatively so new to the market, it’s rare to get a version for over $200 off, which is why we don’t expect it to be up for very long.

Of course, MPB does go through hundreds of used cameras every single day. So, if you check MPB looking for the Olympus OM-D E-M5 III and you don’t find it, you can continue to check throughout the week. Chances are, a new one will be for sale soon.

Plus, if reading this Olympus OM-D E-M5 III article made you want to upgrade your current camera, MPB lets you do just this. You can actually trade in your old equipment and use the credit you receive for this old equipment on a new purchase. 

For more information about all of the reasons why we shop with MPB, you can read the learn more links below. 

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We Recommend


Olympus PEN E-PL10 Review

Olympus PEN E PL10 Review 1

If you’re looking for a fun, modern, retro-style mirrorless camera then you need look no further than the Olympus PEN E-PL10.

The Olympus PEN E-PL10 is a relatively new retro-style mirrorless camera that came out in 2020, which means that it has all of the style of a classic camera with all of the features of something far newer. 

I honestly don’t know why the Olympus PEN E-PL10 hasn’t gotten more love from the photographic community except that it is designed for a far broader audience. It’s definitely something I could see influencers carrying around with them on their trips to the south of France. 

I think that the photographic community needs to take another look at the Olympus PEN E-PL10, though. Keep in mind that Olympus does have two different retro-style mirrorless lines. This one and the OM-D and the main difference is the fact that the PEN cameras do not have built-in viewfinders. 

If you’re still interested to learn more about this camera, I’m going to cover everything you need to know in my Olympus PEN E-PL10 review. 

Olympus PEN E-PL10 Specs

Olympus PEN E PL10 Specs 1 1

The Olympus PEN E-PL10 specs are pretty much what you’d expect of a camera of this type. It features an 18MP micro four thirds sensor, 3-axis in-body image stabilization, and a 3” tilting LCD screen. 

The screen is a little odd. It features 1.04m-dots and can tilt upwards up to 80 degrees and downward up to 180 degrees. This means that the camera will technically allow for selfies, but it isn’t great for longer vlogging episodes.

The camera also features a 121-point AF system, along with face and eye priority AF, and focus peaking. 

Olympus PEN E PL10 Specs 2

It isn’t the best camera in low light settings, but it still performs pretty well with an ISO range of 100-25,600

If you’re looking to use it for videos, it shoots 4K video at 30, 25, or 24p and Full HD video at 30, 25, or 24p as well. It can record movies up to 29 minutes in length and it also comes with a high speed movie option. 

The camera also comes with a ton of different art filters, like Instant Film, Pop Art, and Vintage. 

Other Olympus PEN E-PL10 Specs Include:

  • 18MP micro four thirds sensor
  • 1.04m-dot 3” tilting LCD
  • 121-point AF system
  • ISO range of 100-25,600
  • 4K video capabilities 
  • 14fps burst mode
  • Built-in flash

Olympus PEN E-PL10 Body & Design

Olympus PEN E PL10 Body Design 1

The Olympus PEN E-PL10 body weighs .83 lbs and measures 4.6” x 2.7” x 1.5”. 

The Olympus PEN E-PL10 design is very basic. This is either exactly what you’re looking for or it’s way too simplistic for the type of shooting you’ll be doing.

However, if you’re looking for a camera that only features one command dial and a series of buttons on the right side of the rear camera, then this camera will provide a great shooting experience.

Olympus PEN E PL10 Body Design 2

As I mentioned earlier, this camera doesn’t feature a viewfinder, so you’ll have to do all of your shooting via the LCD screen. The screen isn’t fully articulating, so you won’t be able to film your own vlogs with it. However, the screen does tilt slightly up and down for shooting different angles and you can slide it all the way underneath the camera for selfies.

The camera comes with a pop-flash and a hotshoe. You aren’t stuck with the kit lens because the Olympus PEN E-PL10 features a removable lens so you can use other compatible lenses. 

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Olympus PEN E-PL10 Build & Handling

Olympus PEN E PL10 Build Handling

When it comes to the Olympus PEN E-PL10 build, you can expect a leather-like wrap around the entire body to help ensure you don’t accidentally drop it. 

As for the Olympus PEN E-PL10 handling, it offers a pretty typical entry-level mirrorless experience. The camera is quite small and will feel too small for photographers who have a lot of experience shooting with other cameras or for photographers with large hands. It also feels a really thick front grip and a smaller thumb rest on the back so that you can feel secure. 

You also will need to shoot with smaller lenses on this camera since shooting with larger lenses may feel a bit odd given its size.

Olympus PEN E-PL10 Video Performance

Huge thanks to Robin Wong for the Olympus PEN E-PL10 video test above. 

The Olympus PEN E-PL10 is, as I’ve mentioned, a great vlogging camera. It isn’t designed for a professional videographer. 

The camera shoots 4K video and Full HD video at up to 30p. It also comes with a high speed movie option at 120fps.

The camera comes with a wind noise reduction option since you don’t have the option of using an external microphone.  

Olympus PEN E-PL10 Price

Olympus PEN E PL10 Price

Given the fact that the Olympus PEN E-PL10 was only released last year, it’s price really hasn’t dropped that much.  

The original MSRP on the Olympus PEN E-PL10 was $700, but you can save a lot of money on this Olympus PEN E-PL10 price if you buy the camera used.

I checked MPB, which is my favorite used camera retailer, and they currently have just one Olympus PEN E-PL10 available.

However, you can save $300 by doing so because it is on sale for $400. 

It also happens to be in excellent condition, which means that it only shows the lightest signs of use. This exact model has some signs of use around the paintwork on the bottom of the camera. However, the sensor doesn’t have any scratches, the screen only features the lightest of marks and everything else is in perfect condition.

This specific model even comes in its original packaging. 

The Olympus PEN E-PL10 does come in different colors, so if you don’t like the tan version that MPB has for sale right now, then you can keep checking back because they rotate through hundreds of cameras everyday and you could save yourself a ton of money by doing so.

For more information about MPB and why we swear by it, you can read the MPB Review in the learn more links below. 

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Olympus PEN E-PL9 Review

Olympus PEN E PL9 Review

If you’re looking for a cheap, entry-level mirrorless camera then you’ve found it in the Olympus PEN E-PL9. 

The Olympus PEN E-PL9 was officially released in the spring of 2018 and essentially acts like a pared down version of some of Olympus’ more professional mirrorless cameras. For example, whereas most Olympus cameras come with 5-axis in-body image stabilization, the Olympus PEN E-PL9 comes with 3-axis in-body image stabilization. Whereas most modern Olympus mirrorless cameras come with 4K video capabilities at up to 60p, the Olympus PEN E-PL9 comes with 4K video capabilities at up to 30p.

In these ways and many more you can think of the Olympus PEN E-PL9 as a cheaper, teenage version of some of Olympus well-loved professional mirrorless setups. 

This is why young photographers and vloggers have been flocking to this camera for the past 2 years. If I had to guess, I would think that they’ll likely continue to do so for a couple more.

In this Olympus PEN E-PL9 review I’ll walk you through the Olympus PEN E-PL9 specs, build, and handling. But, perhaps most importantly, I’ll also tell you how you can get a large reduction in the Olympus PEN E-PL9 price.

Olympus PEN E-PL9 Specs

Olympus PEN E PL9 Specs 1

The Olympus PEN E-PL9 is an entry-level mirrorless camera with a 16MP Live MOS sensor and a Truepic VIII processor. 

This camera features 4K video at up to 30p. This feature is paired with the camera’s 3-axis in-body image stabilization system which provides excellent video for vloggers, or for young travellers.  

The autofocus system, like the rest of the Olympus PEN E-PL9 specs, isn’t the best system available, but it is definitely decent. It comes with a 121-point contrast-detect system that is paired with both eye and face detection, which once again will be very appealing to vloggers.

 Olympus PEN E PL9 Specs 2

Perhaps one of the most intriguing Olympus PEN E-PL9 features is the Bluetooth connection which lets photographers transfer their tagged images to their cellphones even when the camera is turned off. 

Finally, as can be expected with a camera that is clearly aimed at both vloggers and new photographers venturing outside of smartphone photography for the first time, the Olympus PEN E-PL9 comes with a tilting touchscreen. It flips 90 degrees up and 180 degrees down. 

Other Olympus PEN E-PL9 Specs Include:

  • 16MP Live MOS sensor
  • Truepic VIII processor
  • 4K video capabilities at up to 30p
  • 3-axis in-body image stabilization
  • 121-point contrast detection AF system
  • 3” tilting touchscreen LCD with 1.04m-dots
  • ISO range of 200-6400
  • 350-shot battery life
  • .84 lbs

Olympus PEN E-PL9 Body & Design

 Olympus PEN E PL9 Body Design 1

It’s rare that I get to write a review of a camera with a design as interesting as the Olympus PEN E-PL9 design.

To me, it is quite obvious that this camera is being targeted at a younger audience. It comes in an array of different colors, like white, tan, and black, and each of them are designed to fit that retro-aesthetic which is so popular right now. 

The camera actually looks quite expensive because the Olympus PEN E-PL9 body is built out of metal and faux leather.

The camera comes with a four-way control pad on its back, which could be too small for some. 

Olympus PEN E-PL9 Build & Handling

Olympus PEN E PL9 Build Handling 1

The Olympus PEN E-PL9 build, as I mentioned, feels expensive. The camera measures 4.61” x 2.68” x 1.54”, and despite the fact that it looks quite heavy, it actually weighs well under 1 lb.  

This, obviously, means that the Olympus PEN E-PL9 handling is quite fun. It’s light enough to bring with you wherever you’re headed and its battery life, at 350 shots, is just long enough to make this camera really versatile.

If you are a photographer with a bit more experience with other cameras, then the fact that this one doesn’t come with a viewfinder may be a dealbreaker for you. However, for a camera of this size and price, the lack of a viewfinder should be expected. 

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Olympus PEN E-PL9 Video Performance

Shout out to Precision Camera and Video for showing off this camera in their Olympus PEN E-PL9 video performance test, which you can watch above. 

The obvious attraction of this camera to vloggers is that it shoots 4K video at a cheaper price range and that this 4K video is also paired with a pretty good autofocus system that allows you to track eyes and faces.  

The camera also comes with a touchscreen, which is wonderful for photographers who are switching from a smartphone for the first time. Touchscreen LCDs simply come with less of a learning curve, and since they are so popular, you may as well start using one now. 

Vloggers will also be attracted to some of the more fun video features of this camera, like the Art Filters and Movie Effects, as well as the Clips mode which allows photographers to grab 4 second videos at a time. You can think of these mini-videos like Apple’s Live Photo option for their iPhones. 

Finally, the camera comes with an HS mode if you’re looking to create slo-mo videos.

Olympus PEN E-PL9 Price

Olympus PEN E PL9 Price 

When the Olympus PEN E-PL9 first came out in the spring of 2018 it was going for $600. However, as the camera has gotten older and has gotten a lot more competitors, the price has been steadily decreasing.

Now, the camera is available secondhand from plenty of sellers online. While we always recommend purchasing cameras second hand, since that means you can use all of the money you’ve saved to purchase other camera gear that will really make or break your shooting experience, buying second hand from individual sellers is kind of a crap shoot. You never really know if the camera you see online is going to actually look that way when you get it in the mail.

This is one of the many reasons why we recommend MPB to our readers. MPB is a popular second hand camera retailer. Unlike a lot of the other second hand camera retail websites, though, you don’t actually have to deal with other photographers.  

MPB hires photographers to purchase old equipment from photographers all over the world. This equipment is then rated, by those professional photographers, before it is put up for sale to you.

While this isn’t the absolute cheapest way to buy used gear, it is the best way to ensure that your camera is in full working condition because MPB has a 30-day money back guarantee. 

A photographer selling one old camera likely doesn’t care about a bad review online, but a big company like MPB certainly does. I have never purchased anything from the site that didn’t show up in a timely manner in the exact condition I was expecting it to. I definitely can’t say the same for Amazon or Ebay.

Plus, since MPB is a large company, they receive hundreds of new cameras every day. It may be worth checking out MPB’s Olympus PEN E-PL9 pageto see if you can save. 

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Olympus PEN F vs Nikon Z fc

Olympus PEN F vs Nikon Z fc

While we acknowledge that the Olympus Pen F and Nikon Z fc have A LOT of differences, they have one huge thing in common – their compact, old-school designs. With that in mind, we wrote this Olympus Pen F vs Nikon Z fc review to help people struggling to decide which stylish, retro-style camera better suits their photography needs. 

Below, we share everything you need to know about these two popular digital cameras. We’ll start with general overviews before breaking down their individual photo and video capabilities. Also, thanks to innovative online platforms like MPB, buying a pre-owned mirrorless camera has never been cheaper and easier than it is today.

MPB is a trustworthy and reliable online platform selling pre-owned photo and video gear at unbeatable prices. All their cameras and lenses are dutifully hand-inspected by knowledgeable product specialists and backed by six-month warranties, allowing you to make your purchases confidently and worry-free.

We’ve been using MPB’s online marketplace to buy, sell, and trade in camera equipment for years and would never have achieved the success we did without their help. That’s why we wanted to give them a much-deserved shout-out here today. Now, let’s dive in and discover whether the Olympus Pen F or Nikon Z fc is the right camera for you!

Table of Contents

Olympus PEN F vs Nikon Z fc: Overview

Olympus PEN F Overview

Olympus PEN F

The Nikon Z fc was released in 2021, while the Olympus Pen F first debuted in 2016. Both mirrorless cameras utilize cropped sensors – the Z fc has an APS-C sensor, and the Pen F has a Four Thirds sensor. The smaller sensors allow their bodies to be lighter and more portable than full-frame cameras.

Another shared strength of these two cameras is their handling and ergonomics. Both can easily be controlled using only one hand and have multiple customizable buttons and control dials. The customization options grant you the freedom to set up the cameras in a way that best matches your shooting style, speeds up your workflow, and improves your overall productivity.

Nikon Z fc Overview

Nikon Z fc

Here’s a head-to-head look at the key features and specs of the Olympus PEN F and Nikon Z fc to see how they stack up:

Olympus PEN F vs Nikon Z fc Table

Olympus PEN F vs Nikon Z fc: Imaging Performance

Olympus PEN F Imaging Performance

Olympus PEN F 

Still photographers will be thrilled with the sharpness and image quality of photos taken on the Olympus Pen F and Nikon Z fc. However, the Pen F has the advantage of boasting in-body image stabilization (IBIS). The stabilization reduces camera shake, boosts low-light performance, and makes it easier to snap sharp, in-focus images. 

Both cameras have fast continuous shooting – the Z fc captures bursts at 11 fps and the Pen F at 10 fps (20 fps with the electronic shutter), making them good action and sports photography options.

Nikon Z fc Imaging Performance

Nikon Z fc 

One more thing these retro cameras have in common is their high-resolution electronic viewfinders (EVFs). The EVFs have 2.36 million dots each, which will greatly help you when composing your photos.  

Which is the best camera for photos? It’s a close call, but we like the Olympus Pen F. 

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Olympus PEN F vs Nikon Z fc: Video Performance

Olympus PEN F Video Performance

Olympus PEN F 

Switching to video, there is one camera that clearly has the upper hand – the Nikon Z fc. For starters, it has oversampled 4K video capabilities at speeds of up to 30p. Additionally, it records stunningly smooth 1080p/120p slow-motion video and has a microphone port for advanced audio control. 

The Olympus Pen F isn’t a bad video camera, though. Beginners and people who rarely film video content will find the 1080p Full HD video quality more than suitable (better than mobile phones, for example).

Nikon Z fc Video Performance

Nikon Z fc

Another design feature you will find on both cameras is a fully-articulating screen. This is a must-have for modern videographers, making it much easier to shoot selfie video footage for YouTube, social media, etc. 

Which is the best camera for video? The Nikon Z fc in a landslide. 

Recommended Olympus PEN F & Nikon Z fc Lenses

Recommended Olympus PEN F Nikon Z fc Lenses

Nikon Z fc

Here are two quick lists of the best Micro Four Third lenses and the best Nikon Z Mount lenses to pair with the Olympus Pen F and Nikon Z fc

Olympus Pen F Lenses

Nikon Z fc Lenses

Final Thoughts on the Olympus PEN F vs Nikon Z fc

Thoughts on the Olympus PEN F vs Nikon Z fc 

Nikon Z fc 

As you can see, these two classic-looking mirrorless cameras are packed full of modern and advanced features. And while you can’t go wrong with either one, here are our final recommendations: 

People who mostly or exclusively shoot photos should opt for the Olympus Pen F. On the other hand, for those of you more interested in creating video content, the Nikon Z fc is the superior option. And lucky for you, MPB has fantastic deals on both right now!

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Olympus PEN-F Review

Olympus PEN F Review

The Olympus PEN-F, which came out 5 years ago, was created with the original in mind. So, for enthusiast photographers who like the feel of shooting with antique cameras, this one will definitely appeal.

Since it did come out 5 years ago, some of the specs are outdated. For instance, it definitely isn’t a good choice for videographers, since it doesn’t even feature 4K video. However, some of the features on this camera are really fun. For example, there are plenty of artistic filters to play around with. It also has a nice high resolution mode. 

In this Olympus PEN-F review, I’ll discuss a little bit more about what the Olympus PEN-F body looks like and I’ll also share what types of photographers it might appeal to. 

Olympus PEN-F Specs

Olympus PEN F Specs 1

The Olympus PEN-F features a 20MP Four Thirds sensor. It also features an electronic viewfinder with a nice resolution of 2.36m-dots. Likewise, the Olympus PEN-F handles itself well in low light scenarios thanks to its ISO range of 200-25,600, which can be expanded up to 80-25,600.  

One important note about the Olympus PEN-F specs is that its screen is a TFT, which is arguably the best type of display technology available for cameras. It features a 3” 1.037m-dot TFT screen. TFT stands for “thin-film transistor” and it provides you with the most accurate color representations on your screen. 

Olympus PEN F Specs 2 1

Another important note is that this camera features a 50MP “High Res” shot mode. When you look at this camera’s video capabilities, which are outdated since it cannot shoot 4K, it seems pretty clear that it was designed for stills photographers. 

You can expect to get a 10fps burst mode out of this camera. It also comes with 5-axis image stabilization, built-in Wi-Fi, and an 81-point AF system.

Other Olympus PEN-F Specs Include:

  • 20MP Live MOS sensor
  • TruePic VII image processor
  • 5-axis image stabilization
  • ISO of 200-25,600
  • 81-point AF system
  • 3” 1.03m-dot screen 
  • Built-in Wi-Fi
  • 330-shot battery life 

Olympus PEN-F Body & Design

Olympus PEN F Body Design 1

The Olympus PEN-F body measures 4.9” x 2.8” x 1.5” and weighs 15.3 oz, making it the perfect size for a camera you can bring with you everywhere. 

One of the more fun parts of this camera is its front-mounted dial. Back in the day, this dial would have been used to adjust the shutter speed. Now, though, it lets you choose different artistic filters for your shots. For this reason, the Olympus PEN-F is a ton of fun to shoot with.  

One of the more interesting artistic filters is a film grain filter that is supposed to be pretty darn accurate. It isn’t like most film grain filters that put the same effect over the entire photo.  

The touchscreen is articulated, making it great for taking selfies or vlogging. Unfortunately, you cannot change any of your main menu selections via the touchscreen. It’s definitely a more antique camera in this way. 

The 2.36m-dot EVF features a really good refresh rate, as well, so that you can easily track moving objects. One thing you do need to watch out for when using the EVF is the fact that the Auto Luminance feature likes to make you think your photo is brighter than it actually is, which can make you underexpose your images. Thankfully, you can set your EVF brightness yourself. 

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Olympus PEN-F Build & Handling

Olympus PEN F Build Handling

The Olympus PEN-F build is pretty serious, like most other Olympus cameras. It is made completely of metal, except for a few plastic buttons on the back of the camera. One unfortunate thing about the Olympus PEN-F design, though, is the fact that it is not weather-sealed. 

When it comes to the Olympus PEN-F handling, the shooting experience definitely leans towards one you would get with a rangefinder. It’s why the viewfinder is located on the left corner of your camera. 

This does mean, though, that you shouldn’t expect any sort of a grip on this camera. It is true to its 1960s version. You do get a thumb grip, but I would absolutely keep this camera on a wrist strap while you are using it.

Olympus PEN-F Video Performance

Huge shout out to Blunty for providing us with the Olympus PEN-F video performance test above. 

As I already mentioned, the Olympus PEN-F only features Full HD video at up to 30fps. Even when the Olympus PEN-F first came out, it wasn’t designed to appeal to hardcore videographers. If you’re looking for a hardcore videography camera, then you should move on. 

However, if you’re looking for a stills camera that can still produce video, the Olympus PEN-F might work for you. It does have some really great videography features. For instance, the in-body image stabilization provides a great steadiness to videos that you take while on the move, making it a nice option for vloggers who aren’t ready to purchase anything with 4K. 

Olympus PEN-F Price

Olympus PEN F Price 1

Since the Olympus PEN-F is now 5 years old, you can’t find it for sale from Olympus. It has been discontinued. However, this may be a blessing in disguise because it means that a lot of Olympus photographers are offloading their Olympus PEN-F cameras in favor of something a little bit newer. 

This means that the Olympus PEN-F price continues to plummet. Whereas the Olympus PEN-F cost $1,500 when it first came out, you can now find it for around half the cost.

For instance, MPB is currently selling an Olympus PEN-F, in excellent condition, for only $809. It even comes with its original packaging. 

I recommend that you do purchase your Olympus PEN-F from MPB because they hire professional photographers to grade all of their equipment. You may be able to find a slightly cheaper version elsewhere, like on eBay or Craigslist, but I really don’t think it’s worth the risk that you’re taking buying from an anonymous seller online. That camera could show up to your front door looking completely different, or worse, it could not show up at all.

With MPB’s customer service, you can rest assured that your camera will look exactly as it does in the photos and you can always return your camera up to a month after you purchased it if it wasn’t exactly what you were looking for. I can promise you that no Craigslist seller will offer a month-long warranty, either!

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OM-1 vs OM-5: Overview

om 1 vs om 5

Many of you might be familiar with the brand Olympus, but what about OM System? Well, you might be surprised to learn that they are now one and the same! The two companies merged in 2021, and since then, all of their interchangeable lens mirrorless cameras have fallen under the OM System label. The first two cameras they’ve launched since then are the OM-1 and OM-5.  

In this OM-1 vs OM-5 camera review, we’ll share a basic overview of the two cameras before comparing and contrasting their photo and video capabilities. After that, we’ll recommend our favorite compatible micro four thirds lenses. Moreover, thanks to innovative online platforms like MPB, buying a used mirrorless camera has never been cheaper and easier.

Who is MPB? It is a trustworthy and reliable online platform selling pre-owned photography and videography gear at affordable prices. Better yet, every one of its cameras and lenses is hand-inspected by expert product specialists with years of experience and backed by a six-month warranty, allowing you to make your purchases confidently and worry-free.

We highly encourage you to visit MPB because of its state-of-the-art online marketplace. It’s a remarkable tool that has helped us save thousands of dollars buying, selling, and trading in high-quality photography equipment over the years, and we believe it can help you do the same. Now, let’s jump in and explore everything there is to know about the OM-1 vs OM-5!

Check out the video above on the MPB YouTube Channel to discover which Olympus/OM System camera is right for you.

Table of Contents

OM-1 vs OM-5: Overview

OM 1 Overview

OM System OM-1  

The OM System OM-1 and OM System OM-5 both debuted in 2022. The OM-5 is a versatile mid-range camera designed for everyone, from people who have never picked up a camera to semi-professionals. On the other hand, the OM-1 is a high-end camera aimed more toward professional content creators (photo and video). 

Although both cameras feature 20-megapixel MFT sensors, the two sensors are totally different outside of resolution. For example, the OM-5 has one Live MOS CMOS sensor, while the OM-1 boasts a stacked BSI Live MOS sensor. Additionally, the OM-5 uses a TruePix IX image processor, while the OM-1 has an upgraded TruePic X Dual Quad Core Processor.

OM 5 Overview

OM System OM-5

Design-wise, the OM-1 is like the beefed-up big brother who hit the gym all summer. Some pros and cons come with that. One advantage is that it has more customizable buttons and dials, which can boost productivity. Another benefit is that the OM-1 holds a larger battery, providing significantly better life. 

However, a disadvantage is that it’s noticeably bigger and heavier than the OM-5. With that in mind, the OM-5 is popular for travel photography and vlogging. Here’s a head-to-head comparison of the OM-1 vs OM-5 specs and key features to see how they stack up.

OM 1 vs OM 5 Overview Table

OM-1 vs OM-5: Imaging Performance

OM 1 Imaging Performance

OM System OM-1 

As micro four thirds (MFT) cameras, the OM System OM-1 and OM System OM-5 have smaller sensors than their APS-C and full-frame competitors. Don’t let that scare you away, though. The truth is that photos taken with both of these cameras have excellent image quality, detail retention, and colors.

One of the first things people look at when deciding on a new camera, and one of the keys to consistently capturing sharp, in-focus images, is autofocus. Both cameras have solid autofocus, but only one is worth bragging about—the OM-1. It has over eight times the number of focus points and markedly better subject recognition and tracking than the OM-5. 

OM 5 Imaging Performance

OM System OM-5 

Other differences include max burst shooting speed and low-light performance. The OM-5 has a better-than-average 30 fps max continuous shooting speed, but the OM-1 boasts an out-of-this-world 120 fps continuous shooting. When working in low-light situations, the stacked sensor and wider ISO range of the OM-1 yield sharper images with less noise. 

One cool feature the two cameras share is their high-res shooting modes. They can both capture 50MP handheld stills and 80MP stills when the cameras are on a tripod. These modes are perfect for creating impressive images of landscapes and cityscapes.

Which is the best camera for photos? The OM System OM-1

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OM-1 vs OM-5: Video Performance

 OM 1 Video Performance

OM System OM-1  

The OM System OM-1 and OM System OM-5 are hybrid mirrorless cameras. This means that, unlike many older cameras, they can take photos and record videos, so you don’t have to buy two cameras! Furthermore, both boast 1080p Full HD and 4K video capabilities. 

The OM-1 can film 4K video at 24, 30, and 60 fps, while the highest frame rate of the OM-5 is 30 fps. Are you a fan of slow motion? If you are, we have good news for you! And if you aren’t…well, you should be! The OM-5 records 1080p/120p slow-motion videos and the OM-1 1080p/240p super-slow-motion movies. 

OM 5 Video Performance

OM System OM-5

Two other differences are that the OM-1 offers 10-bit video compared to 8-bit video on the OM-1 and that the OM-1 has uncropped 4K video while the OM-5 applies a 1.19x crop factor to footage. The crop factor isn’t huge, but it does make capturing wide-angle video slightly harder. 

Conversely, mutual video similarities include in-camera image stabilization and fully articulating rear screens. Stabilization adds up to eight stops of exposure on the OM-1 and 7.5 stops on the OM-5, making it easier to film handheld video. At the same time, the cameras articulating screens make them popular choices for YouTubers and social media influencers.  

Which is the best camera for video? The OM System OM-1

Recommended Olympus Lenses

 Recommended Olympus Lenses

OM System OM-1 with 12-40mm f/2.8 lens 

Here are some of the best micro four thirds lenses for photo and video to pair with the Olympus OM-1 or OM System OM-5

Final Thoughts on the OM-1 vs OM-5

Final Thoughts on the OM 1 vs OM 5

A group of friends with the OM System OM-5 

The OM System OM-1 is clearly the more advanced camera, but that doesn’t mean it’s better than the OM System OM-5 for everyone. Actually, the target market for these two cameras is completely different. 

Beginners, people on a budget, and photographers prioritizing portability will prefer the OM-5. Alternatively, professionals, video-oriented shooters, and photographers who often shoot in low-light conditions will see better results with the flagship OM-1.

As wonderful as these two cameras are, we understand if you don’t feel either is quite the right fit for you. That said, see the links below to compare the OM-1 and OM-5 with other popular Olympus/OM System cameras currently available at MPB

Disclaimer: Just so you know, some of the cool stuff we mention comes with affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission if you buy (no extra charge to you!). Plus, we occasionally feature sponsored content, but rest assured, we only shout out products we genuinely stand behind.

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Photography Equipment List for Beginners

Photography Equipment List for Beginners

photo byEXTREME-PHOTOGRAPHER via iStock

One of my favorite things to see online are questions from beginner photographers. Seeing or being asked questions tells me that the wonderful hobby of serious photography is growing and new photographers are reaching out to learn. 

A common set of questions from beginners concerns the best photography equipment to purchase. I get asked this all the time and I have decided to create a photography equipment list for beginners that mirrors what I tend to say in person as replies. A beginner photography gear checklist, more or less.

The Camera

beginner photography gear checklist 3

photo bywundervisuals via iStock

The Camera is the title of one of my favorite photography books, but I’ll get to books later in the list. Right now I am looking at good camera choices for beginners. 

I usually assume that anyone asking about what camera to choose is probably a photographer who either has outgrown their smartphone or a photographer who used to shoot a lot on film as a hobby back when. 

This type of beginner is familiar with the creative process and wants to do more, but also sees a new camera as a significant purchase that they don’t want to make a mistake getting. Basically, you’re simply needing an interpretation of all that ad junk so you can figure out what’s best for you.

I recommend one of the two larger crop format camera types. Either APS-C or MFT. These cameras come closest to the hobbyist film cameras of just a few years ago. So, they will feel correct to anyone coming back to photography. They are also full of helpful features that will be appealing to photographers coming from current smartphones. Get more details on APS-C vs MFT formats in the video below by The Hybrid Shooter:

If we were speaking in person, I would ask you several more questions myself to narrow down your wants and needs, but for now I can point you in a general direction of a couple of nice entry level but full featured cameras. 

photography equipment list for beginners 1

In the APS-C format DSLR category, a fine camera is the Canon EOS Rebel T6. It has an 18MP sensor, Wi-Fi, video recording, 3” rear screen, and a bright optical viewfinder. It has autofocus, auto exposure, full manual override, and menu options with special effects.

photography equipment list for beginners 2

A mirrorless MFT format camera choice is the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mk II. This superbly designed camera boasts a 16MP sensor, electronic eye level viewfinder, in body 5-axis image stabilization. Adding classic camera styling makes this an attractive camera for beginner photographers.

 

Recommended Photography Reading

 

Prime and Zoom Lenses 

beginner photography gear checklist 4

 photo by delihayat via iStock 

Most of the entry-level cameras suitable for beginners come in kits with an all-around multi-purpose zoom lens. Lenses like 18-55mm or 14-42mm are common. These lenses have some limitations but are generally very optically sharp. So go ahead and buy the camera with the kit lens, the prices of most cameras with the kit lens is usually very close to the price of the camera body alone. 

Part of the joy of moving into interchangeable lens cameras is having lenses to interchange. After the kit lens, other good choices are a telephoto zoom lens, an ultra-wide-angle zoom lens, or a fast prime lens.

You will probably get a telephoto zoom first, and as I explain in the video above, that’s a good choice. Telephoto lenses have long focal lengths that allow you to get up-close images of far-away objects, making them prime tools for things like sports and wildlife photography, though they have many more uses.

The fast primes available for these formats will allow for low-light imaging and selective focus tricks. Ultra-wide-angle lenses open up many interesting views for landscapes, interiors, and other creative ideas. This is the beginning of a decent photography equipment list for beginners.

photography equipment list for beginners 5

If you picked up a DSLR like the Nikon D3500 as your first camera, several Nikon brand lenses fit those criteria and are also relatively inexpensive. Some lens choices could be:

Each camera brand making the best photography equipment of APS-C or MFT cameras has a similar range of inexpensive lenses targeted for beginners and enthusiasts. Several independent brands such as Sigma and Tokina do so as well.

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Flash or Speedlights

photography equipment list 6

Photo by Tom Pumford on Unsplash 

Those built in pop-up flashes are great photography tools for snapshots and to get good exposure for people pictures up-close. Their range is limited, though. As are their features.  A virtually essential early purchase of photography equipment for beginners is an external flash. 

An external flash opens up a whole bunch of opportunities for photographers, so be sure to include one on your own personal photography equipment list for beginners. External flashes give more power for increased range and a variety of exposure settings, plus they usually have zoom, bounce, and swivel functions, opening up yet more lighting options.

photography equipment list 7

Those built in pop-up flashes are great photography tools for snapshots and to get good exposure for people pictures up-close. Their range is limited, though. As are their features.  A virtually essential early purchase of photography equipment for beginners is an external flash. 

An external flash opens up a whole bunch of opportunities for photographers, so be sure to include one on your own personal photography equipment list for beginners. External flashes give more power for increased range and a variety of exposure settings, plus they usually have zoom, bounce, and swivel functions, opening up yet more lighting options. 

The camera brand speedlights can cost almost as much as the initial camera kit kit with lens does, but other, less expensive options exist. YONGNUO YN560 IV speedlite has most of the same features as camera brand flashes, such as TTL metering, slave and wireless control, and a deep menu. 

Neewer NW-670 is another nice choice for our photography equipment list for beginners. It also has the features you expect and is a great lower priced option.

Tripod

photography equipment list 9 

A tripod of some sort definitely deserves a spot on our photography equipment list for beginners. Newer DSLRs and mirrorless cameras and their lenses have amazing image stabilization features. Even so, having a good tripod gives you the ability to take advantage of special techniques such as HDR, panoramas, and ultra long exposure.

The trick with choosing a good tripod is figuring out the balance between a stable platform and a portable tripod. Two good tripod choices for our beginner photography list checklist are the GEEKOTO AT24EVO aluminum tripod and the Vanguard 263AB-100 3-Section Aluminum Alloy Alta Pro 263-AB Tripod Legs with SBH-100 QR Ballhead.  

photography equipment list 8

The Geekoto tripod has a removable center column that doubles as a monopod and the Vanguard Alta Pro has a center column that pivots plus extremely spreadable legs to let you put your camera anywhere you need for the picture. 

If you’re going to have photography tools such as a tripod, it may as well be one that you can use to the full.

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Filters

photography tools 13

Photo by Chris Yang on Unsplash 

If you’ve come from the world of smartphone photography, the term filter probably brings to your mind apps to use for certain effects or functions. Interchangeable lens camera systems use different filters, optical filters that fit on the lens.  

A couple of extremely useful optical filters that belong on our photography equipment list for beginners are circular polarizers and neutral density filters.  

Personally, I prefer filter systems with a filter holder, lens adapters, and the various filters to fit them. An advantage of a filter system is that you only need to buy one filter that can be adapted to fit on all of your lenses, and you can position the filters exactly as needed.

photography equipment for beginners 10

A fantastic set of filters is the Haida M10 Enthusiast Filter Kit with holder, adapters, circular polarizer (C-POL), 10 stop neutral density (ND), and graduated neutral density (GND) filters.  

This kit may be a little more expensive than what you expected, but the beauty of a filter system is that it can be used on many different lenses, so it will grow along with you as you move on to other high quality photography tools including professional caliber cameras and lenses.

If your photography equipment list for beginners budget is more modest, an essential filter purchase that is easy to afford is the screw in circular polarizer. A high quality example is the Hoya Pro-1 C-POL filter, available in a variety of single sizes.

The polarizer filter is one of the most useful of all the photographic filters. We have a lot of good things to say about circular polarizers.

Camera Bag

photography equipment for beginners 11

You have a fair amount of the best photography equipment for you to use now, you also need a way to carry it safely and efficiently. It’s not enough to carry your photography tools around safely, you also need to be able to access them efficiently. Therefore, a camera bag should be designed around photography, not just the gear. 

HAZARD 4® Plan-B Hard™ - Go-Bag Shell Sling-Pack is one of the better examples of a bag that meets both criteria for fantastic protection and very efficient operation. A less expensive, somewhat more traditional approach is the Lowepro m-Trekker SH 150 Shoulder Bag. Both bags are far better than the bag that was included in the kit you may have started with.

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Extra Batteries

photography equipment for beginners 12

Learn from our mistakes. You don’t want to be at the photo opportunity of the year and have your battery die on you because you forgot to charge it. A very inexpensive way to make sure this doesn’t happen is also simple, keep an extra battery in your bag.

There are off-brand or third-party brands that fit and function well in many cameras, but some cameras don’t act properly with other brands that are not the manufacturer batteries. The camera brand batteries aren’t that much more expensive, so be sure to read the customer reviews to find out if the battery you are considering will work properly.  

The battery for the Nikon D3500 and for the Canon EOS Rebel T6 will hold a charge for a long time in storage making them one of the essential photography tools that should be on our photography equipment list for beginners.

Memory Cards

best photography equipment 

Memory cards are part of the film for digital cameras, taking what the sensor sees and holding it for transfer or storage. Just as with film, not all memory cards are created equal.

Besides the size of the card’s storage capacity, file transfer speeds are also an important consideration. With large file sizes, the speed a camera can write those files to memory may make a difference in capturing the best image.

So, we look for a balance here, too. A balance among memory size, durability, transfer speeds, and price. Good news for beginners is that there really isn’t a bad card out there. Most of the entry level cameras will use a variant of the SD card, a format with a good track record in digital photography.

You can either get a larger capacity cardor you might like having several smaller capacity cards. Either way, you’re covered if you have a few extra memory cards in your beginner photography gear checklist. 

Post-Processing Program

photography tools 14

 photo by vgajic via iStock 

Now comes the scary part. Photoshop! It’s really not that hard to learn, there are even tutorials you can take to give you a head start. Post processing is an essential part of digital photography, just as a darkroom or photo lab was a part of consumer film photography. 

It can be a lot of fun, don’t let it worry you. Scaled down versions of some of the most powerful programs are simple and inexpensive, putting them on our best photography equipment list for beginners. Adobe Photoshop Elements 2020 and Auto FX software are two fine choices. 

Learn more about post-processing in our continuing series of articles on this website.

Photography Books

photography tools 15

 photo by MesquitaFMS via iStock 

You learn by doing, you also learn by instruction. Some of the best instruction for photographers comes from books written by experts. Websites with member forums and manufacturer websites are other good resources for helpful information.

Besides books like Nikon, Canon, or Sony for Dummies, there are general photographic instruction books that will expand your knowledge and skill set. DSLR Photography for Beginners

Is available in Kindle or dead tree versions. Another fine book, paper or electronic, is Mastering Aperture, Shutter Speed, ISO and Exposure.

Thousands of great instructional guides are out there, check the reviews to see which ones work for your photography equipment list for beginners.

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What’s On Your Own List?

Pick and choose from our photography equipment list for beginners. You know your wants, needs, budget… 

Then, give us a shout out here. I would love to hear what worked for you. By the way, welcome to the wonderful world of serious photography!

 



We Recommend


The Olympus OM-D E-M1X is the Budget Pro-Level Camera You Need

The Olympus OM D E M1X is the Budget Pro Level Camera You Need

Want a professional camera but don’t want to pay through the roof to get it? Look no further than the powerful Olympus OM-D E-M1X. It’s a mirrorless camera with the rare combination of providing pro-level quality but at an affordable price. 

In this Olympus OM-D E-M1X review, we’ll share a basic camera overview, break down its advanced photo and video specs, recommend our favorite micro four thirds lenses to shoot with, and more. Additionally, thanks to innovative websites like MPB, buying a used mirrorless camera has never been cheaper and easier.

Who is MPB? It is a trustworthy and reliable online platform selling pre-owned photography and videography gear at unbeatable prices. Better yet, all of its cameras and lenses are hand-inspected by knowledgeable product specialists with years of experience and backed by six-month warranties, allowing you to make your purchases confidently and worry-free.

We love MPB because, over the years, we have saved thousands of dollars buying, selling, and trading in photography equipment on their state-of-the-art online marketplace. You can start saving by visiting their website today. Now, join us as we discover everything there is to know about the Olympus OM-D E-M1X mirrorless camera. 

Check out the video above by Qippy’s Channel to learn why the Olympus OM-D E-M1X still provides tons of value in 2024. 

Table of Contents

Olympus OM-D E-M1X: Overview

Olympus OM D E M1X Overview

The Olympus OM-D E-M1X is a high-end mirrorless camera built to optimize speed. It is powered by a 20.4-megapixel micro four-thirds image sensor and Dual TruePic VIII image processing engines, which work in unison to deliver excellent results during photo and video capture.

The OM-D E-M1X's signature specs are its fast readout speeds, fast processing speed, and blistering burst shooting speed (more on that later). All three are crucial in making it one of the most sought-after budget pro-level cameras on the market. A newly designed autofocus (AF) system that uses machine learning is also notably faster than the AF of older Olympus cameras.

The OM-D E-M1X has a unique dual-grip design, which makes it bigger and heavier than most mirrorless cameras. That said, the strengths of this design are that it has superb handling, holds two batteries at once, and is more comfortable to shoot with for extended periods. Those benefits more than compensate for its bulky size.

Now, here’s an in-depth look at the Olympus OM-D E-M1X specs and key features:

  • Camera Type: Mirrorless Camera
  • Sensor: 20.4MP Micro Four Thirds CMOS Sensor
  • ISO: 200 - 25,600 (expandable to 64 - 25,600)
  • Lens Mount: Micro Four Thirds Mount
  • Speed: 60.0 fps
  • Autofocus: 121 focus points
  • Video: 4K/30p & 1080p/120p
  • Size/Weight: 144 x 147 x 75 mm / 997 grams
  • Battery Life: 870 shots
  • Stabilization: Yes
  • Touchscreen: Yes
  • Weather-Sealed: Yes
  • Used Olympus OM-D E-M1X Price: $839 - $879

Olympus OM-D E-M1X: Imaging Capabilities

Olympus OM D E M1X Imaging Capabilities

As promised, we have to start with the burst shooting of the Olympus OM-D E-M1X. Whether you select JPEGs or RAW images, it can shoot continuously at a remarkable speed of up to 60 fps. If you use continuous AF, that number drops to a still-outstanding 18 fps. For comparison, the similarly priced Sony Alpha a6600 has a maximum continuous shooting speed of 11 fps.

We would have liked to see a little more resolution than 20MP from the sensor, but the OM-D E-M1X's image quality is solid, particularly when shooting well-lit scenes. Moreover, you can boost the resolution using one of the two new high-resolution modes. Handheld high-res mode produces 50MP stills, and the tripod high-res mode yields 80MP pictures.

Two more highlight-worthy photography features are Pro Capture mode and Live ND mode. The nifty Pro Capture mode saves a handful of frames from before you press the shutter button, ensuring you never miss the perfect shot. Conversely, the Live ND mode captures multiple frames progressively and combines them to create a single image that simulates the results of long-exposure photography.

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Olympus OM-D E-M1X: Video Capabilities

Olympus OM D E M1X Video Capabilities

When you switch the camera to video mode, you will be excited to learn that the Olympus OM-D E-M1X boasts many pro-level specs and features. The first is its 4K video capabilities, allowing the camera to record 4K movies at 24 or 30 fps. The 30 fps frame rate is better for vloggers and YouTubers, while 24 fps footage has a beautiful cinematic look that filmmakers prefer. 

Dropping the resolution to 1080p bumps the max frame rate up to 120 fps, which is ideal for filming slow-motion videos. We found the video quality of the 1080p Full HD video a little soft around the edges, but it’s good for creating content for social media and live streaming to popular platforms like YouTube and Twitch. 

Other great video features of the OM-D E-M1X include advanced audio controls, 8-bit video, a fully articulating screen, and its two types of image stabilization. The stabilization, in particular, is impressive. On-sensor and digital stabilization work together to add up to 7.5 stops of exposure, leading to better low-light performance and less camera shake.

Recommended Lenses for the Olympus OM-D E-M1X

Recommended Lenses for the Olympus OM D E M1X

Here’s a quick list of some of the best micro four thirds lenses for photo and video to pair with the Olympus OM-D E-M1X

Final Thoughts on the Olympus OM-D E-M1X

Final Thoughts on the Olympus OM D E M1X

Wow! The Olympus OM-D E-M1X is an amazing camera that packs a powerful punch, especially for sports, action, and wildlife photographers. Furthermore, its budget-friendly price means anyone from first-time camera buyers to professionals can afford it. For an even better deal, consider purchasing an Olympus OM-D E-M1X used from a dependable retailer.

Do you want to browse some more similar options before deciding which camera to buy? If so, check out the list below of other popular Olympus mirrorless cameras and OM Systems mirrorless cameras currently in stock at MPB:

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We Recommend


These Budget Bird Photography Cameras are Worth Their Weight in Gold

These Budget Bird Photography Cameras are Worth Their Weight in Gold

Photo by MarkLane45 via iStock

Bird photography is so much fun! The colors, the surroundings, and the interesting aspects of different birds all add up to an enjoyable photography experience. Oh yeah, the resulting images are amazing as well.

If you’re new to serious photography, you may be wondering what the best camera for bird photography is, as well as what other bird photography gear you might want. As I show each bird photography camera I think is great, I’ll link to them at the online platform MPB, my favorite camera candy store.

MPB is the best place to buy, sell, and trade used photography gear, from cameras and lenses to specialty accessories and even drones. I have saved tons of money over the years I’ve been using them and have always been satisfied with the quality of each item and their 6-month warranty.

Let’s see what you might want to have as your bird photography camera. 

Table of Contents:

Crop Format as a Bird Photography Camera

Crop Format as a Bird Photography Camera

Photo by DieterMeryl via iStock

Three main formats are popular for digital photography: Full Frame format, APS-C format, and MFT format. 

There are also two styles of camera design: DSLR (digital single lens reflex), which uses a mirror box and prism for through-the-lens (TTL) viewing, and mirrorless cameras, which use electronic viewfinders. 

For a bird photography camera, I recommend a mirrorless camera in one of the crop formats, though you can achieve amazing results with whatever type of camera you own now by implementing tips and techniques we’ve discussed in other articles.

First off, a mirrorless design is nice for a bird photography camera for several reasons. Having no mirror mechanism, the cameras are usually much quieter than SLRs. The viewfinder display never blacks out, allowing easier tracking of a moving target. And they are generally compact and lightweight.

Crop Format as a Bird Photography Camera 2

Photo by MikeLane45 via iStock

Secondly, the crop formats work very well, in my opinion, as a bird photography camera due to the lens crop factor.  

Crop factor can be a confusing idea to grasp, but it basically refers to how a lens's focal length braves in the crop format as opposed to the same focal length on a Full Frame format camera. The lens focal length does not change, but the same focal length is longer in the effective field of view on the smaller formats. 

APS-C cameras have a crop factor of 1.5X (or close to it), and the MFT cameras have a 2X crop factor. This really works well for sports, wildlife, and bird photography when it comes to telephoto lenses. 

Crop Format as a Bird Photography Camera 3

Photo by Anantha Jois via iStock

As an example, a 300mm lens on a Full Frame camera provides a reach of 6X over the normal focal length of 50mm. On an APS-C format camera, that same 300mm focal length is 9X over the normal lens for that format (35mm). With MFT format cameras, that is 12X over the normal 25mm lens for that format. 

That 300mm lens focal length gives the same field of view and telephoto reach as a 450mm lens for 1.5X crop factor and a 600mm lens for 2X crop factor, if compared to the standard of Full Frame format. 

While all of that figuring out factors may sound odd, the bottom line is that crop format cameras are very friendly to telephoto use, such as what we want from a bird photography camera and lens setup.

Now, on to the bird photography camera options!

Bird Photography Camera - Sony a6400

Bird Photography Camera Sony a6400

The Sony a6400 is a mirrorless APS-C format camera with interchangeable lenses in the Sony E-mount. You can get one in Like New condition with a 6-month warranty at MP for only $704, body only. Add the super compact normal range kit lens Sony E PZ 16-50mm for $83 in Like New condition for all-around use.

Watch this YouTube video from DP Review TV for an overview of this neat bird photography camera:

Here are the main features:

  • APS-C format 24MP sensor
  • 425-pt phase-detection AF system with Real-Time Tracking
  • Tilting rear viewscreen
  • 2.36M-dot electronic viewfinder
  • ISO range from 100-32000
  • 11fps burst shooting (8fps with silent shutter)
  • 4K/30p video capture
  • 410 shots per battery charge (per CIPA)

Bird Photography Camera Sony a6400 2

A couple things that stand out as great for a bird photography camera are the silent shutter, super fast AF, and a long battery life. Adding 4K video means any video footage you capture will also be superb quality.

Bird Photography Camera - Olympus OM-D E-M1X

Bird Photography Camera Olympus OM D E M1X

The Olympus OM-D E-M1X is a fully professional-level camera with a 20MP MFT sensor and interchangeable lenses in the MFT mount, meaning you can use OEM lenses from Olympus, Panasonic, Leica, and others. 

I found it in Like New condition for $984. A good kit lens is the M.Zuiko 12-45mm PRO zoom lens for $449 in Like New condition. A huge plus for this camera and Olympus PRO line lenses is the rugged build and weather sealing, making this a prime option as a bird photography camera.

DP Review TV on YouTube has an in-depth review of this fully professional camera system:

Features highlights:

  • 20MP Four Thirds sensor
  • 121-point hybrid autofocus system
  • 50MP hand-held high-res shot mode
  • 10 fps burst shooting with AF-C, 30 fps with electronic shutter
  • Cinema (DCI) and UHD 4K video
  • 7.5 EV of image stabilization with supported lenses
  • 2.36M-dot OLED viewfinder with an ultra-fast refresh rate
  • Fully articulating touchscreen
  • IP53-rated weather-sealed body

Bird Photography Camera Olympus OM D E M1X 2

In addition to the weather sealing, some other specs that stand out as a bird photography camera are the enhanced level of image stabilization (great for those long telephoto lenses) and the high-resolution mode that can be accessed hand-held.

Bird Photography Camera - Canon EOS R7

Bird Photography Camera Canon EOS R7 2

The Canon EOS R7 has an APS-C format 32.5MP sensor and takes lenses with the Canon RF-mount. It is $1319 in Like New condition for the body on MPB. The $94 Canon RF-S 18-45mm lens for APS-C format is a good multipurpose compact lens in Like New condition.

Here is the DP Review TV YouTube review of this high-end mirrorless camera:

Features and specs:

  • 32.5MP APS-C CMOS sensor with Dual-Pixel AF
  • Up to 30 fps shooting with e-shutter
  • In-body image stabilization (IBIS), up to 7 stops
  • Oversampled UHD 4K up to 30p
  • 10-bit video in 'PQ' true HDR footage or C-Log
  • 2.36M dot OLED viewfinder
  • 1.62M dot fully-articulating touchscreen
  • Twin UHS-II SD card slot
  • Environmental sealing

Bird Photography Camera Canon EOS R7

Some stand-out features that add up to great benefits as a bird photography camera are the Dual Pixel AF for rapid autofocus, advanced video functions for pro-level results, weather sealing, and the 7-stop IBIS. 

Bird Photography Camera Lenses and Accessories

Bird Photography Camera Lenses and Accessories

To take advantage of the features for whichever bird photography camera you decide on, you’ll want to add some high-quality telephoto lenses and some other useful bird photography gear. I found all of these on MPB. If something is out of stock when you first look, check back in a little while since the inventory rapidly changes.

Canon has an amazing telephoto zoom lens in the RF-mount that will be awesome for bird photography, the Canon RF 100-500mm zoom lens. It runs for $2519 in Like New condition. With the 1.5X crop factor of the Canon EOS R7, this lens will provide 15X magnification over the normal lens (750mm Full Frame equivalent). You can even use this lens hand-held at times with the 7-stop IBIS of the R7 camera.

Bird Photography Camera Lenses and Accessories 2

For those using Sony mirrorless cameras, see the Sony FE 100-400mm GM OSS zoom lens, which is currently selling for $1889 in Like New condition. A crop factor of 1.5X gives this lens an effective equivalency for Full Frame of 600mm for a 12X magnification over normal for the APS-C format.

The M.Zuiko 100-400mm ED IS zoom lens is in the MFT-mount for Olympus and can be found for $1259 in Like New condition. Enhanced image stabilization, advanced weather sealing, and ED elements make this an ideal lens for your MFT format bird photography camera. The 2X crop factor provides a Full Frame equivalency of 800mm for 16X magnification over normal, perfect for wildlife and sports.

Other bird photography gear available on MPB for your choice of the best camera for bird photography are tripods, monopods, flashguns, and a camera bag to hold it all. 

After you get set up with your bird photography camera, lens, and accessories, post some of your pics on our Photography Talk forum so we can see those beautiful birds!

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Three of the Best Cameras Under $500 to Consider for 2023

Three of the Best Cameras Under 500 to Consider for 2023

Photo by Vesnaandjic via iStock

If you are on the hunt for a cheap digital camera and don’t know where to start your search, you are in the right place! We designed this guide as a one-stop shop where you can learn everything there is to know about some of the best budget-friendly cameras on the market today.

One outstanding resource with heaps of used mirrorless cameras and used DSLR cameras for under $500 and a place I have bought and sold endless photography equipment throughout the years is MPB. They are a trustworthy and reliable online platform selling used photo and video kit at unbeatable prices.

Moreover, every one of their cameras is dutifully hand-inspected by expert product specialists and backed by warranties, allowing you to make your purchases confidently and worry-free. Another amazing feature of MPB is its online platform, where you can trade in and sell your old gear to offset the cost of new-to-you photography and videography gear you want and need.

With that said, it’s time to jump in and take a closer look at three of the best cameras under $500 to consider for 2023!

Table of Contents

Best Cameras Under $500: Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II

Olympus OM D E M5 Mark II

First on our list of the best cameras under $500 is the prestigious Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II. It originally debuted in 2015, but despite its old age, it remains an extremely capable camera thanks to its 16.1-megapixel Four Thirds sensor and fast TruePic VII image processing engine. The pair works together to deliver fantastic image quality in both still photos and videos.

One area where the OM-D E-M5 Mark II shines brightest is low-light shooting. The new TruePic VII image processor significantly improves low-light performance compared to the original OM-D E-M5 and boosts the camera's dynamic range. The wide dynamic range allows you to better edit your pictures in post-production.

Another advanced feature is the built-in 5-Axis image stabilization. It further enhances low-light image quality and helps reduce camera shake during handheld video recording. The last thing I love about this camera is the 40MP high-resolution mode. It uses AI technology to combine multiple exposures into one high-res photo and is great for nature and landscape photography. 

If you have a slightly higher budget, check out its successor, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III. Now, here’s an in-depth look at the key features and specs of one of the best cameras under $500:

  • Camera Type: Mirrorless 
  • Sensor: 16.1MP Four Thirds CMOS sensor
  • ISO: 200 - 25,600 (expandable to 100 - 25,600)
  • Lens Mount: Micro Four Thirds
  • Speed: 10.0 fps
  • Autofocus: 81 focus points
  • Video: 1080p/60p, 1080p/30p, & 1080p/24p
  • Size/Weight: 124 x 85 x 45 mm / 469 grams
  • Battery Life: 310 shots
  • Stabilization: Yes
  • Touchscreen: Yes

Check out the video above by Peter Forsgård to learn more about why the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II is still worth buying in 2023.

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Best Cameras Under $500: Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85

Panasonic Lumix DMC GX85

Next up is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 (or DMC-GX80 as it’s known in Europe). It was released in 2016 and is an intermediate-level mirrorless camera with a 16.0-megapixel Four Thirds sensor. It’s a fantastic all-around camera, perfect for photography and videography alike.

The standout feature of this camera is its 4K video capabilities. It records stunning UHD 4K footage at frame rates of 30p and 24p. Additionally, the camera’s powerful built-in image stabilization technology yields excellent results and all but eliminates unwanted camera shake. For even better results, use a Micro Four Thirds lens with optical image stabilization like the Panasonic Lumix G Vario HD 14-140mm f/4-5.8 Mega O.I.S.

Some standout still photography features include three 4K photo modes, superb ergonomics/handling, and responsive Depth-From-Defocus autofocus. The AF technology works well in both photo and video modes and has solid subject tracking. This makes the DMC-GX85 a good choice for portrait and street photographers. 

If you are willing to spend a little more, check out the upgraded Panasonic Lumix DC-GX9. Now, here’s an in-depth look at the key features and specs of one of the best cameras under $500:

  • Camera Type: Mirrorless
  • Sensor: 16.0MP Four Thirds CMOS sensor
  • ISO: 200 - 25,600 (expandable to 100 - 25,600)
  • Lens Mount: Micro Four Thirds
  • Speed: 8.0 fps
  • Autofocus: 49 focus points
  • Video: 4K/30p & 1080p/60p
  • Size/Weight: 122 x 71 x 44 mm / 426 grams
  • Battery Life: 290 shots
  • Stabilization: Yes
  • Touchscreen: Yes

Check out the video above by MicroFourLife to learn more about what makes the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 great in 2023.

Best Cameras Under $500: Sony a6000

Sony Alpha a6000

One more of the best cameras under $500 is the insanely popular Sony Alpha a6000. It launched in 2014 and is the longest-running and most-sold mirrorless camera of all time. For children and those of you brand-new to photography, there is no better camera on the market thanks to its user-friendly interface and lightweight, compact design.

The camera’s hybrid phase-detection autofocus is incredibly fast and means capturing crystal-clear images is a piece of cake, even when shooting moving subjects. Moreover, this camera offers burst shooting at speeds of up to 11 frames per second. This makes it an ideal camera for action, adventure, sports, and wildlife photography.

Lastly, the a6000 also excels as a video camera. While it can’t shoot 4K footage, the video quality of its 1080p Full HD clips is impressive. Other useful video features include the tilting touchscreen LCD, zebra markers, and a built-in stereo microphone.

If you can expand your budget slightly, check out its replacement, the Sony Alpha a6100. Now, here’s an in-depth look at the key features and specs of one of the best cameras under $500:

  • Camera Type: Mirrorless
  • Sensor: 24.3MP APS-C CMOS sensor
  • ISO: 100 - 25,600 (expandable to 100 - 51,200)
  • Lens Mount: Sony E Mount
  • Speed: 11.0 fps
  • Autofocus: 179 focus points
  • Video: 1080p/60p, 1080p/30p, & 1080p/24p
  • Size/Weight: 120 x 67 x 45 mm / 344 grams
  • Battery Life: 360 shots
  • Stabilization: No
  • Touchscreen: No

Check out the video above by Arron Prescott to learn more about why the Sony a6000 is still a fantastic camera to purchase in 2023.

More Excellent Cameras Under $500

Best Cameras Under 500

Photo by PeopleImages via iStock 

While those are undoubtedly three of the best cameras under $500 available today, there are many other great options out there if you know where to look. MPB, for example, has tons of cheap used cameras in stock now! And with that in mind, here are a few more of my favorites:

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We Recommend


Top Autofocus Lenses for Micro Four-Thirds Cameras

Top Autofocus Lenses for Micro Four Thirds Cameras

Photo by ShareGrid on Unsplash

I love shooting with Micro Four Third cameras, and I’m not alone.  

Google searches for “best micro four-thirds lenses” have gone through the roof in the past few years. But, newfound popularity in Micro Four Third cameras, also means that we can play around with some (resale!) top autofocuses lenses. And I’m always down for a bargain.

So, I compiled a list of the top autofocus lenses you can use with a Micro Four-Thirds camera, and all for under $300.

BEST PRIME AUTOFOCUS LENSES

PANASONIC LUMIX G 14MM F/2.5  

panasonic lumix 14mm f2.5

If you’re looking for the Micro Four-Thirds equivalent of a 28mm, this one by Panasonic is for you. I use it for street photography, and I’ll also take it traveling with me because it works just as well in low-light as it does at noon. 

It’s also tiny at 0.8” thick and 2oz, so it fits in my luggage, and comes with a multi-coated lens so it’s less prone to scratches. 

It’s also fun to play with the rounded seven-blade diaphragm because it produces cool highlights when working with selective focus.

PANASONIC LUMIX G 25MM F/1.7

panasonic lumix g 25mm 

Not to be that person, but I’m recommending another one of Panasonic’s line for my best prime autofocus lenses.  

This LUMIX strikes me as one of the best micro four-thirds lenses because it’s the equivalent of a 35mm, which means it can be used to shoot virtually any subject at pretty much any time of day, and for one of the cheapest prices of any top autofocus lenses. 

It comes with a f/1.7 aperture for incredible low light shooting, and doesn’t skimp in strong lighting conditions either due to a Nano Surface Coating which reduces lens flare. 

LF Banner Buy

SIGMA 30MM F/1.4 DC DN CONTEMPORARY

sigma 30mm f1.4 

We can’t get into the best prime autofocuses lenses and not at least mention Sigma’s versatile contemporary lens.  

The f/1.4 aperture offers wonderful opportunities for minimizing the depth of field for portraits and close-up shots. 

This Sigma should also be considered one of the best micro four-thirds lenses because of the aspherical elements in its optical design, which prevent spherical aberrations and produce sharper photos than any one of these other prime autofocus lenses. 

The Super Multi-Layer Coating on this Sigma also enables photographers to grab images with incredible contrast without color distortion. It’s a win-win!

OLYMPUS M. ZUIKO DIGITAL 45MM F/1.8

olympus m zuiko 45mm

Portrait photographers who haven’t worked with the Olympus Zuiko Digital, what are you doing? This is absolutely one of the best autofocus lenses for portrait photographers, thanks to the short-telephoto focal length and the f/1.8 maximum aperture. 

With this lens, you no longer need to be worried that golden hour is fading because it handles low-light portraits just as well.

This is also one of the top autofocus lenses for micro four-thirds cameras because of the Movie & Still Compatible (MSC) autofocus system. It shoots video in the same way it shoots photos - quickly and quietly. 

Learn More:

Best Zoom Autofocus Lenses 

LUMIX G VARIO 45-150MM F/4-5.6 ASPH. MEGA O.I.S. 

lumix g vario 45 150mm

This Lumix is so cheap, yet it’s great for 4K, is the full frame equivalent of 90-300mm, and is comparatively light. 

No, I wouldn’t recommend this Lumix as one of the top autofocus lenses for still photographers, but if you so much as dabble in videography, you need to experience shooting with a Mega O.I.S. It basically prevents your hand shake from diminishing the video quality, so you’re shooting better than with any other micro four-thirds lens. 

It also comes with a stepping motor to create an almost silent autofocus.  

Olympus M. Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm f/3.5-3.6

olympus m zuiko digital ed 14 42 

No, this lens isn’t as exciting as the previous Lumix, but it does everything it’s supposed to, which is sometimes a lot to ask of a lens. 

It’s small (3.2oz and less than 1in. In depth), quiet and comes with the MSC autofocus. 

It does have one downside though: at f/3.5-5.6, it’s not the fastest lens out there. So, if you’re not involved in sports or wildlife photography in which you need to crank up the shutter speed, check this zoom autofocus lens out. 

Where to Buy These Top Autofocus Lenses

Whenever I’m bargain shopping for the best micro four-thirds lenses, I always head straight to Lensfinder. 

Not only do they have an incredible array of the top autofocus lenses, but they are a resale website so each one of the lenses in their inventory has a caring photographer behind them. 

This means you can rest assured your lenses were taken care of before you came across them, and you can also ask any and all questions of the sellers (no more hassling with third-party sellers on eBay).

Plus, Lensfinder ensures the sellers pay all of the fees and you know exactly what your total is going to be up front. 

And, if you can’t find the exact lens you are looking for today, you can always come back tomorrow because the chances are it will be there! It’s a one-stop-shop for lenses that could help you save a good bit of money. What’s not to like about that?

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We Recommend


Top Beginner Cameras for 2021

Top Beginner Cameras for 2019

Photo by Jamie Street on Unsplash

In a world in which some cameras cost thousands and thousands of dollars, coming across a good beginner camera can seem really difficult. Why spend thousands of dollars when you’re not even sure if this is the hobby/job for you? 

Thankfully, there are some incredible budget DSLRs and mirrorless cameras on the market right now. Read on about Nikon D3500 review which is my favorite DSLR along with four more cameras from different brands.

This list of top beginner cameras includes a few of each. Some came out this year, some are years old, but they’re all great for exploring your inner photographer. 

Table of Contents

Nikon D3500

nikon d3500 3 

The Nikon D3500 is a special favorite DSLR of mine, primarily because of the price and the shocking battery life that’s good for over 1,500 shots.

This D3500 is Nikon’s follow up to the d3400 which came out in 2016, and offers some modest upgrades for today’s photographer.

Nikon D3500 Specs

  • 24.2MP APS-C CMOS 4
  • EXPEED 4
  • 11-point autofocus system
  • Max Image Size: 6,000 x 4,000px
  • 1920 x 1080 resolution HD video
  • 3.0-inch with 921K dots
  • Weight: 14.6 oz

Nikon D3500 Pros & Cons

  • Pro: 1,550-shot battery life
  • Pro: Incredibly lightweight and compact for a DSLR
  • Pro: Cheap
  • Con: No 4K video capabilities
  • Con: Fixed 3.0-inch LCD screen

nikon d3500 4 

Nikon D3500 Overview

The Nikon D3500 made our list of top beginner cameras for 2021, despite being released in 2018, due in large part to its price. At $395 new, or around $180 used, this DSLR performs just as well as many mirrorless cameras in the same price range. 

While this isn't one of the best beginner cameras for videographers due to the lack of 4K video, it's battery life of 1,550 shots, paired with its updated sensor and decent kit lens means this camera is one of the best entry-level cameras, especially for avid travelers.

 

 

This camera is also phenomenal for beginners because you can easily transition from its accessible guide modes to a more hands-on approach. Plus, the hands-on approach isn't frustrating due to the new layout of the buttons on the camera (so long as you're a rightie, lefties beware). 

Finally, you can also process your RAW images in-camera and connect to the camera via Bluetooth. It’s not the perfect camera, but it’s darn close for a beginner!

You can purchase the Nikon d3500 new for $395, or used starting at $180 on MPB.

Sony RX100 Mark V 

sony rx100

The Sony RX100 Mark V is the priciest camera on our list, but if you truly need something you can throw in your jacket pocket, then this is one of the top entry-level cameras for you. 

Sony RX100 Mark V Specs

  • 20MP 1”-type stacked BSI-CMOS sensor
  • 24fps burst shooting with full AF
  • 4K video capabilities for up to 5 minute clips
  • 220-shot battery life
  • 1,000fps for 8 seconds

Sony RX100 Mark V Pros & Cons

  • Pro: Pocket-friendly sizing
  • Pro: 4K video and high-res photos
  • Pro: Fast, accurate autofocus
  • Con: Pricey
  • Con: No touch screen  

The Sony RX100 V is another camera on this list that came out a few years ago, 2016 to be exact. 

If you're in the market for cheap beginner cameras, then look elsewhere. The Sony RX100 V is a top-of-the-line compact and knows it with a price tag of nearly $1,000. However, if you can afford the splurge, this will be among the most compact beginner cameras you can find. 

 

 

As mentioned, it shoots 4K video, has an incredibly fast burst mode, and features high resolution images. It automatically finds your focus areas, which is great for beginners, and it's faster than any of Sony's other mirrorless or DSLR cameras. 

It's also the best camera on this list for shooting in low light. 

However, because of all of the features in this camera, it may be best for those who have a decent amount of photography experience. 

You can purchase the Sony RX100 Mark V for $830 on Amazon, or $530 used on MPB. 

Panasonic Lumix ZS200/TZ200/TZ220 

panasonic lumix zs200

Entry-level cameras should have an entry-level price and that’s why I love this Panasonic Lumix ZS200. It comes with all the features a beginner will need, without anything extra.

Panasonic Lumix ZS200/TZ200/TZ220 Specs

  • 1-inch, 20.1MP MOS sensor
  • 3.0-inch, 1,240K dot LCD screen
  • 10fps burst shooting
  • 4K video
  • Electronic viewfinder with 2,330K dots

Panasonic Lumix ZS200/TZ200/TZ220 Pros & Cons

  • Pro: 15x optical zoom range
  • Pro: Excellent 1.0-inch sensor
  • Pro: 4K video
  • Con: Fixed LCD screen
  • Con: Smooths images at high ISO

panasonic lumix zs200 2

Panasonic Lumix ZS200/TZ200/TZ220 Overview

The Panasonic Lumix ZS200 is, as mentioned, one of the top beginner cameras because it features everything you need and nothing you don't. 4K video? It has it. A touch-enabled LCD screen? It has one. 

It features 15x optical zoom, connects to WiFi, and has the equivalent of a 24-360mm lens. It can shoot 20MP stills and its electronic viewfinder is 15% beginner than its predecessor's. 

Plus, the Panasonic Lumix ZS200 has an impressive battery life. It also shoots in both RAW and JPEG, and can easily fit in your bag.

 

 

However, the Panasonic Lumix ZS200 is slower than its competitors. And, its buttons seem to be unnecessarily pushed together, which can frustrate some shooters. Although, this button cramping issue does mean Panasonic had room to create a better grip, which means less chance you accidentally drop it. 

 

You can buy the Panasonic Lumix ZS200 on Amazon for $700 or search for used ZS200s to save some cash. 

Get more details about this camera in our Panasonic Lumix ZS200 review.

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II

olumpus om d e m10 mark ii

Other than the fact that I love the look of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II, it made this list for its great electronic viewfinder, its image stabilisation (which far outranks any others in its price range), and its fast burst shooting. 

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II Specs

  • 16.1 megapixel MOS sensor
  • 8.5fps burst shooting
  • WiFi connectivity
  • 5-Axis image stabilization
  • 1080p video 

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II Pros & Cons

  • Pro: Incredibly beautiful, with a retro vibe
  • Pro: Fast burst shooting
  • Pro: Tiling touch-screen 
  • Con: No 4K capabilities
  • Con: Unusual power switch

olympus om d e m10 mark ii 2

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II Overview

2021 is the year of the retro, from obsessions with the fashion of the 90s to an obsession with polaroids, and the photography community definitely didn't miss out. 

I love the way the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II is a small throwback to the beginnings of photography. It's definitely the most aesthetically pleasing camera on our list.

Other than its looks, this Olympus also features a 3-inch tilt-angle screen with 1,040K dots. It can continuously shoot in 8.5fps and shoots full HD video. But, its image stabilization system is what really sets it apart.

 

 

It’s not often you find such inexpensive cameras with five-axis image stabilization, but this Olympus delivers. With that kind of stabilization, you can shoot handheld at slower shutter speeds with less worry of camera shake. It’s also handy for shooting video that appears to be much smoother.  

Its sensor is a bit outdated and it doesn't shoot in 4K video, but what it lacks in these departments it makes up for with fast autofocus, easy handling, and smooth low light shooting. 

You can purchase the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II on Amazon for $499, or used on MPB starting from $269.

Sony a6000

sony a6000

If you are more of an intermediate photographer, then the Sony a6000 may be for you. I know this is technically a list of top beginner cameras, but sometimes it pays to purchase a camera that can grow with you, and that’s this Sony. 

Sony a6000 Specs

  • 24.3 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
  • 11fps continuous shooting
  • 3-inch tilting LCD screen
  • Hybrid AF system
  • WiFi connectivity 

Sony a6000 Pros & Cons

  • Pro: 25-point contrast detect Hybrid AF system
  • Pro: Bionz X processor
  • Pro: 11fps burst shooting
  • Con: Screen isn’t touch-sensitive
  • Con: No 4K video capabilities

sony a6000 2

This Sony a6000 is the oldest camera on our top beginner cameras of 2021 list; it's been on the market since 2014, which is the only reason the price is so ridiculously low.

While it doesn't have some 2021 features, like 4K video and a touchscreen LCD, it makes up for it by featuring specs that were way ahead of its time, like a 24MP sensor and 179-point autofocus system.

 

 

This is also one of the best beginner cameras because it shoots at 11fps. Whether you're a sports photographer or nature photographer, this camera will work well as you photograph fast-moving subjects. Plus, it autofocuses in 0.06 seconds, so there’s that! 

But, the best quality of the Sony a6000 is the Bionz X processor, which features three times the processing speed of earlier models and allows you to reduce blurry details and capture incredible textures. 

You can grab the Sony a6000 for $650 on Amazon, or used on MPB from $289. 

 



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Which Olympus Camera System is Right for You?

Which Olympus Camera System is Right for You

When choosing a camera system, plenty of options are available on the market, each with its unique features and benefits. That said, Olympus is one of the premiere camera makers on the planet. And if you are considering investing in an Olympus camera system, you’ve come to the right place!

In this Olympus camera guide, we break down three of the hottest-selling Olympus cameras currently on the market. With options for beginners, pros, and everyone in between, we promise there’s a camera for you here. Furthermore, thanks to innovative online platforms like MPB, buying a used Olympus digital camera has never been cheaper and easier than it is today.  

MPB is a trustworthy and reliable online platform selling used photo and video equipment at unbeatable prices. All their mirrorless cameras are rigorously hand-inspected by knowledgeable product specialists and backed by six-month warranties, allowing you to make your purchases confidently and worry-free.

We have bought, sold, and traded in loads of camera gear using MPB’s online platform and have always been thrilled with the results. That’s why we proudly want to recommend them to you here today. Now, without further ado, it’s time to dive in and discover which of these amazing Olympus cameras is best for you and your needs!

Table of Contents

The Best Beginner Olympus Camera

Best Beginner Olympus Camera

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is an entry-level mirrorless camera that debuted in 2020. It features a 20.3-megapixel sensor and an advanced TruePic VIII image processing engine. The sensor and processor combine to help make the E-M10 IV one of the fastest beginner-friendly cameras ever. 

Two areas where its speed really stands out are autofocus (AF) and burst shooting. The AF has solid continuous tracking and a face/eye detection mode. And with a max continuous shooting speed of 15 frames per second (fps), it can easily capture fast-moving subjects.

Additionally, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 IV has 4K video capabilities, 5-axis in-body image stabilization, and an ultra-portable body. Its compact and lightweight size make it a great choice for travel and children. 

Here’s an in-depth look at the key features and specs of this Olympus camera: 

  • Camera Type: Mirrorless
  • Sensor: 20.3MP Four Thirds CMOS Sensor
  • ISO: 200 - 25,600 (expandable to 100 - 25,600)
  • Lens Mount: Micro Four Thirds
  • Speed: 15.0 fps
  • Autofocus: 121 focus points
  • Video: 4K/30p & 1080p/60p
  • Size/Weight: 122 x 84 x 49 mm / 383 grams
  • Battery Life: 360 shots
  • Stabilization: Yes
  • Touchscreen: Yes

Check out the video above by Red35 to learn more about the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV and why it’s one of the best budget mirrorless cameras on sale today. 

The Best Mid-Range Olympus Camera

Best Mid Range Olympus Camera

For hybrid shooters with a bit more experience, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is a fantastic mirrorless camera. It was released in 2019 and replaced the Mark II as the company’s go-to camera for enthusiasts, YouTubers, and vloggers.  

Photo features include a high-resolution 20.4-megapixel sensor, 30 fps continuous shooting, and a 50MP high-res mode. The sensor delivers JPEG and RAW files with excellent image quality and sharpness. The 30 fps shooting blows similarly priced cameras like the Sony Alpha a6100 out of the water. And the high-res photo mode is great for landscape photography.

Video content creators and influences love the camera’s 4K video quality, IBIS, slow-motion video, and fully-articulated rear display. Both DCI and UHD 4K resolutions are present on the Olympus OM-D E-M5 III. The IBIS reduces camera shake and improves the quality of handheld video. And the rear display makes it easy to frame images when shooting selfie footage.

Here’s an in-depth look at the key features and specs of this Olympus camera: 

  • Camera Type: Mirrorless
  • Sensor: 20.4MP Four Thirds CMOS Sensor
  • ISO: 200 - 25,600 (expandable to 64 - 25,600)
  • Lens Mount: Micro Four Thirds
  • Speed: 30.0 fps
  • Autofocus: 121 focus points
  • Video: 4K/30p & 1080p/120p
  • Size/Weight: 125 x 85 x 50 mm / 414 grams
  • Battery Life: 310 shots
  • Stabilization: Yes
  • Touchscreen: Yes 

Check out the video above by Peter Forsgård to learn more about the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III and why it’s still worth buying today.  

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The Best Professional Olympus Camera

Best Professional Olympus Camera

Lastly, the best camera for professional photographers is the Olympus OM-D E-M1X. It came out in 2019 and is Olympus’s flagship camera for sports, action, and wildlife photographers. Its signature spec is its out-of-this-world continuous shooting speeds, which top out at a ridiculous 60 fps.

On top of that, it boasts lightning-fast autofocus, processing, and readout speeds. But where does all that speed come from? Well, that would be the dual TruePic VIII image processors. The Olympus OM-D E-M1X is the only Olympus mirrorless camera to utilize two all-new processors, and the results are amazing.

Other notable features include its best-in-class IBIS, built-in ND filters, and two battery slots. The stabilization adds up to 7.5 stops of exposure. The ND filters improve image quality and give you more control when shooting outdoors. And the dual batteries provide the camera with a battery life rated at 870 shots.

Here’s an in-depth look at the key features and specs of this Olympus camera:  

  • Camera Type: Mirrorless
  • Sensor: 20.4MP Four Thirds CMOS Sensor
  • ISO: 200 - 25,600 (expandable to 64 - 25,600)
  • Lens Mount: Micro Four Thirds
  • Speed: 60.0 fps
  • Autofocus: 121 focus points
  • Video: 4K/30p & 1080p/60p
  • Size/Weight: 144 x 147 x 75 mm / 997 grams
  • Battery Life: 870 shots
  • Stabilization: Yes
  • Touchscreen: Yes

Check out the video above by Qippy’s Channel to learn more about the Olympus OM-D E-M1X and why it still provides tons of value in 2023. 

Final Thoughts on Olympus Cameras

Thoughts on Olympus Cameras

Photo by AlenaPaulus via iStock

As you can see, there are some spectacular Olympus camera systems out there. Their current camera lineup stacks up against all the major brands and is full of everything from budget-friendly point-and-shoot cameras to high-powered mirrorless cameras

Thanks for stopping by, and we hope this Olympus camera review has helped you decide which Olympus camera system is right for you. Before you go, check out the list of our favorite Micro Four Thirds lenses for photo and video to use with Olympus cameras. All of them are in stock and available now only at MPB!

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Which Used Olympus Camera Lenses Should You Buy?

Which Used Olympus Camera Lenses Should You Buy

photo byArndt_Vladimir via iStock

With so many remarkable used Olympus camera lenses out there today, I know it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. Thankfully, I’ve created this ultimate buyer's guide to help you make the right decision.

One cool thing to keep in mind is that all Olympus camera lenses are built for Micro Four Thirds camera systems and will also work on Panasonic Micro Four Thirds cameras. Additionally, many of them are cheaper than their Panasonic equivalents. 

In this article, I highlight my favorite standard zoom lens, wide-angle lens, telephoto lens, and prime lens. Then, I share a long list of other fantastic Olympus camera lenses that you can browse through. 

If you are on the fence about buying a used lens, don’t be! There are tons of amazing resources out there that sell camera gear in excellent condition, and many of them even offer warranties.

One of those places is MPB.com. They have unbeatable prices and always have a giant selection of used Olympus camera lenses for sale. More on that in a bit…

Best Used Standard Zoom Olympus Camera Lenses

Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 9 18mm F4 5.6 2

For fans of wide-angle lenses, the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 9-18mm F/4-5.6 is without a doubt one of the premier options. First hitting the shelves in 2008, this ultrawide lens is an oldie but a goodie! It’s a testament to just how spectacular it is that even after all these years, it’s still one of the most popular and sought-after Olympus camera lenses. 

With an equivalent focal range of 18-36mm, this is an ideal lens for landscape photographers, real estate photographers, and astrophotographers alike. Moreover, weighing in at only 155 grams, it’s an incredibly lightweight and compact lens perfect for tossing into your travel kit.

Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 9 18mm F4 5.6

One of the only slight knocks on this lens compared to newer Olympus camera lenses is the maximum f/4-5.6 maximum aperture. Depending on how you like to shoot, it can sometimes be a bit limiting, especially when there’s less light. This is by no means a deal-breaker, though, and an easy solution is to throw it onto a sturdy tripod

Other drool-worthy features include responsive and silent autofocus, an easy-to-use manual focus ring, and extraordinarily sharp image quality. Lastly, since it’s an older lens, you can normally find ones for sale dirt cheap on websites like MPB.com.

However, not all used gear websites offer such detailed grades for the gear they sell, nor do all used gear websites offer six-month warranties. When you buy used gear, you want to do so with peace of mind, and for me, that’s precisely what MPB offers!

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Best Used Telephoto Olympus Camera Lenses

Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 100 400mm F5.0 6.3 IS

The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm F/5.0-6.3 IS was designed specifically for those who want a lightweight and compact telephoto lens with unrivaled reach. It came out in August of 2020 and is a super affordable option compared to other similar quality/length telephoto lenses. 

The 200-800mm effective focal length it delivers is absolutely out of this world and helps capture shots that would be impossible with nearly any other lens. If, for some absurd reason, that is still not long enough for you, you can pair it with the Olympus MC 2.0x Teleconverter or the Olympus 1.4x M.Zuiko Teleconverter MC-14 (shown below) to get even closer to your subjects.

Olympus 1.4x M.Zuiko Teleconverter MC 14

Furthermore, this is one of the only Olympus camera lenses that uses built-in image stabilization technology. While most Olympus camera bodies are equipped with stabilization, when shooting at extremely far distances, you will be happy you have it in the lens as well to help combat camera shake. 

More phenomenal features of this lens are that it has a dust and weather-sealed body, it uses three different types of high-quality glass to produce crisp images, and it works great for video. If you are a wildlife, sport, or action photographer, this is definitely one of the best Olympus camera lenses, and it will help take your photography to the next level. 

Best Used Prime Olympus Camera Lenses

Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 25mm F1.8

Far and away, my favorite Olympus prime lens is the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 25mm F/1.8. It’s a pocket-sized lens that delivers stunningly sharp images and can be purchased at unbelievably low prices. 

This lens is Olympus’s version of a nifty fifty and gives users the attractive effective focal length of 50mm. If you want to document life as the human eye sees it, or if you are a street photographer, this is an absolute must-add to your kit. 

Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 25mm F1.8 2

Additionally, the f/1.8 maximum aperture is one of the lowest found on Olympus camera lenses and makes this lens a great choice for early morning or late afternoon situations when there isn't a ton of light. Also, it creates a shallow depth of field and is perfect for shooting portraits. 

Other things to note are that it has a minimum focus distance of 0.25 meters, it’s crazy light at only 136 grams, it has excellent autofocus, and it comes in two different colors (black and silver). For beginners or photographers on a budget, this is an awesome choice! 

More Fantastic Used Olympus Camera Lenses

Olympus Camera Lenses

While those are my favorite Olympus camera lenses, they are definitely not the only ones out there. Here are some more sensational Olympus camera lenses to check out:

Learn More: 

 



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