If you pull out your compact camera to take a photo, you will not see that you have three emails, a new follower on instagram and 7 unread text messages...thus being distracted from the beauty surrounding you and your compact camera 😀
I tried all kinds of normal cameras and phones to document breakdowns in factories, but they all ended up dead. Since I got a TG-4 back in 2017 I never had it fail me - ever - not even in the worst conditions imaginable. I am actually now looking at upgrading to a TG-6, not because there is anything wrong with my TG-6, but only because I want better video capabilities. The TG series is a true workhorse, even in an engineering environment like mine.
Hi Peter, an update. I purchased the TG-6 at Christmas as a present for myself. I also use the TG-6 for my part time inspection photography work, which has me in various environments. This camera has always paid for itself over and over. I use the TG-6 for travel these days. It's reliable and I enjoy the features that you discussed. Plus, the TG-6 allows me to use my smartphone for what it's designed to do: be a phone. All the best!
I have the TG-5 and agree it is better than my iPhone 8 for images. I bought it mainly for the durability, f2.0 lens, and raw capture. The macro capability is its most impressive feature. For me a major disappointment is that lack of manual mode. I agree with many that a “tough” camera with a 1” sensor would be great.
I love my TG-5. It goes everywhere with me. Some of my favorite photos of my kids are from the TG-5 because it’s so easy to take with me. I love the macro capabilities as well. I previously owned the TG-4. The TGs are worlds better than using a smartphone. Thanks for the video Peter.
Nice presentation! Time lapsing outdoors, e.g. while camping, with the camera attached to a power bank, and charging while in use (!), is my favourite feature.
I love what you're saying about phones as cameras. A phone's camera is Ok to have if you've got nothing else. But I will ALWAYS prefer a camera over a phone with a camera.
It's a great camera!!! Another one that beats the competition... as a former Canon guy who was considering transitioning to Fuji I can only say that I'm so pleased to be an Olympus user now... they're so unique, different and so good!!! I'm in love with this brand like if it was the first time I picked it... Canon never did that for me...
I love compact cameras. I still have two: the aforementioned Panasonic rugged camera and my old Pentax MX-1. Today, I got out my old Rollei 35 (Singapore model with the Rollei Tessar lens). I'm going to introduce my daughter to film photography soon. Another reason this is a better choice than a phone: Lower risk. Even though the camera is expensive, we don't keep our whole LIVES on it, like we do on the phone. If it is lost or broken, it won't "hurt" as much as if we lost a $1k smart phone. Last reason: using the camera will preserve the phone's battery. If a person is using his phone all day to snap vacation pix, he might find that it won't last until the end of the day. Then, inevitably, is when a person will fall and break his ankle in a remote area, then be unable to call for help.
I used a little Rollei 35 in the late 70s / early 80s for hiking trips in SW Tasmania when my OM1 would have been too heavy & too bulky. Got some great shots, until I stupidly left it on the side of a mountain 😥
Over the weekend Olympus had a 12 hour sale for this camera $249.00. I picked one up based on this review. I love it. The macro is amazing. I will never shoot with my iPhone again.
Just got a TG-6 for a trip I have coming up. I was very happy to find out that you can import the GPS logs from the TG and use them to geo-tag pictures on another camera (My E-M5III for example). So now I can use the TG-6 for tracking instead of the app on my phone.
@@ForsgardPeter The annoying part is the app can only be setup to connect to one camera at a time so you have to register the app to the TG, download the log, then redo the WiFi setup for the other camera, then add geotags to your images.
Totally agree with you 👏🏻 STYLUS TG series is a must to carry on everywhere (I own the 3 and the 6) and, on professional side, it is perfect to check composition & exposure, quite before to take my Lumix G9 or GX85 out the backpack for shooting (especially on extreme outdoors - e.g. beach, snow, mountains). Take care. See ya, blue skies 🤙🏻🍀📸
I'm with you on the durability. While I shoot mostly with my iPhone these days rather than my OM-D EM1 just for convenience, there are times - extreme cold or extreme heat - where the phone just stops working. I love my TG-4 and am debating about getting the TG-6.
Hi Peter, nice video. I own the TG-5 and for me it is also an advantage that you can take pictures in RAW. Also taking time lapses and correct the RAW images as a bundle is great.
I dislike iPhone cameras for the reasons you stated, and in searching for a pocket camera I figured waterproof dustproof and indestructible with dials you can use with wet fingers would be ideal. The TG6 has the best compromises in a small sensor pocket camera with decent photographs and a few solid photo features. Its my first camera without an EVF but considering all the other advantages I can handle that. Now I can keep a pocket camera in my pocket all the time. Thanks for the review, it made a lot of sense.
Great overview video of the Tough TG-6. Before I got the TG-6 in 2020, I actually had the Olympus Tough TG-4 from 2014-2020. I used the TG-4 everywhere I went. I actually used it for all of my street photography photos during my month long trip to the Philippines in 2019. Despite it being a 5 year old camera at the time, I was able to take some of my all time favorite street photography photos. I currently use the Tough TG-6 as my main camera (even though I have my Lumix G9 with a couple of M Zuiko lenses.) due to how rugged and durable it is. I hope that OM System announces a Tough TG-7 this year that wouldn't just be another Tough camera with minor upgrades. It is also great news that OM System confirmed that the Tough line will be continued due to how successful of a product line it is. I hope the new TG-7 would have: 1. Bigger battery to accommodate longer battery life 2. Slightly thicker and larger overall camera body for improved ergonomics 3. A larger sensor (maybe a 1 inch sensor) 4. Manual Control 5. New color option (silver camera body)
Thanks for making this video. A friend helped me pick the TG-6 a few months ago. It takes sharp pictures with so little effort. I'm not a photographer but wanted better pics for vacations as well as walking and hiking trails. I'm notoriously rough on outdoor gear, so I needed a camera that would withstand drops. This camera has that a lot of features that I'm very excited to learn more about. After watching your video, I want a light ring. Can we say there's a new hobby emerging? :-)
I have always thought phones make terrible cameras...one other reason...they might ring when you are taking photos.Thanks for great info, I m an Olympus owner, I appreciate your channel.
A big reason that I like my TG-6 is because it is easy to use while riding a bike. The camera hangs from my wrist while riding. I can't drop it because it of the wrist strap. I can easily turn the camera on, zoom, and shoot with ONE hand while riding. I can take pictures behind me too. This falls under ergonomics.
My first digital camera was Olympus C-2100 with 10x optical zoom & 2,1 megapixels resolution.Actually it was one of the first bridge cameras. People was very happy with photos I produced on this camera, even from very beginning Olympus skin tones was excellent.And 2.1mpx was fully enough for 10x15 photos. Regarding TG6 many consider Olympus as best in tough cameras field.
Great video Peter :) I've got a TG-3 which I take out with me on my little boat. For me it's much, much nicer to use than a phone and unlike most phones it doesn't mind getting wet. At some point I'll upgrade to a TG-5 or TG-6.
My first Olympus was a TG-4 I bought only for a vacation were I would be skin diving, and it was rated very good. Indeed it was very good and I got some phenomenal pictures of reef fishes. Two years later I bought an OM-D E-M5 Mark II, and was amazed at the quality and especially the in-camera features. Later that I year the TG-4 came out for another holiday, by then I was more familiar with the Olympus menus and I was shocked to find the Live Comp and even a macro focus stack feature! In-camera stack, not just bracket. I still use the TG-4, but when it is not longer adequate or I finally manage to kill it, I will definitely purchase the next in the TG line.
I have an Oly Tough Stylus with 5 X zoom. The only thing I don't like and wish it had was M,A,S,P modes. I don't know of any P&S cameras from Olympus that have these options. Cell phones with 2 lenses, actually have 2 seperate cameras, one behind each lens. You didn't mention how the sensor in a cell phone compares to that of a good camera and the imaging processing power of a camera processor vs a cell phone processor or flash of a cell phone vs an Oly P&S. Cell phones are basically designed to be phones with a camera. I only know of one cell phone that is designed as a camera with a phone. That is the KODAK EKTAR phone. It doesn't have an optical zoom lens either. However as with all things designed to multitask you have a choice, either you get a good camera with a mediocre phone, or a good phone with a mediocre camera. The best camera you own is the camera you have with you. If all you have with you is the camera in your cell phone by all means use it for photography. I have an iphone XR, takes good pictures, but I'll use my Oly tough any time ove it.
You just talked me into plunking down 5 bills for the TG-6. It's interesting you led the vid with "are you thinking of an old phone upgrade just to get a better camera??" bc that's EXACTLY how this started. I LOVE my little iPhone 5S, don't need lots of hi tech, and the price difference between that and a new 12-mini turns out to be more than a nice combo beginning set for the TG-6. Definitely going to add that light ring, too. Great video and...thanks!
One thing you didn't comment on (piggy-backing on Reason 5 [Durability]) is that this camera's durability makes it a good first REAL camera for a kid. Not any kid, just kids of photographers. (as no one else will want to invest that much in kid's camera) Right now, my daughter has an older Panasonic rugged camera. Soon, it will be time to upgrade, as it does not do well at all in low light. I will have to check, but I think the sensor is larger on this TG6 than my Panasonic from several years ago. Nice job on the video.
Your review did the trick. I purchased one today. But bought the upgrade instead the TG -6. Been on the market for a compAct camera but just didn’t know which one.
Hello from Atlanta Georgia in the USA thank you for sharing this wonderful camera you did a great presentation now I see the five reasons why I need this camera thank you again
Thanks for such an informative and fun video. I'm thinking about the TG-6 for hiking and everyday use. I have an old Nikon Coolpix P310 that I still use. The Nikon beats the smartphone thanks to having that good Nikon glass, and I don't have to hunt for the "shutter button" on my phone's screen.
Thanks for the walk-through on the TG-6. It's going to be the first purchase with my next paycheque. And it will be so much lighter than the Nikon D800 plus macro lens to which I have been addicted. Can't wait to get started!
Hello, after 2 years, what is your opinion on this camera? I have d7200+flash+macro lens and it is bulky and heavy, I want to have something easy to carry in long hikes. Do you recommend TG-6?
Thanks, I check these out with each release, and I'm still waiting for one with a 1" sensor format...! I like the concept, though :) I'd prefer a prime or very limited zoom range to a sub-1" sensor - perhaps like the GR or X100-series it could have long and wide adaptors for other focal lengths, or even come in two focal length options (a 1" sensor also affords digital crop/zoom that's no worse than a phone-sensor image...)
Hi Peter great video again, I have recently purchased a tg6 for mostly hiking and biking ,my em5 mk2 is just a bit to big to stuff in the rucksack although I have been doing that several years , the tg6 looks more suitable for outdoor activities and you don't have be constantly worried about damaging the em mk5 2.
Another GREAT reason for preferring the TG5 to an iPhone is that in freezing cold weather [e.g. -5C in Chicago] I used my TG-5 with gloves on. Can't do THAT with an iPhone!!
Not sure if stated below but one additional reason, simple phone and TG-5, no more data charges hence save money for other more important things like beer.
Well done, Peter. I was considering a newer iPhone myself for photography and other reasons. But I think - why not just use my old iphone 4 for phoning and text, eh? How many computers do you need anyway. I love landscape photography but am also trying out light-painting, time-laspe and slow mo, etc., etc. So yes I think this one is for me. Thanks
I was really disappointed with a Pentax, similar to the TG5, got mushy IQ definitely worst than my smartphone. You've got me thinking about the TG-6 with your video
Fair list. Been eyeing those Olympus TGs for a while. Currently use a Ricoh WG-30 that has produced many serviceable shots but also many low quality images. Since I also have a fair-weather bridge camera that always produces good results, I hope my skill or lack thereof is not part of the problem. The very low resolution screen on the Ricoh probably lends to my not being able to tell when the focus is on the correct object. That high pixel screen on the TG-6 sounds like the answer to my needs!
I was really disappointed with a Pentax, similar to the TG5, got mushy IQ definitely worst than my smartphone. You've got me thinking about the TG-6 with your video.
Very cool indeed. I also noticed that my display warns me if cardslot 2 is empty. That is also new. For me it is nice because i shoot raw to card 1 and jpg to card 2.
I have a tg5 and it's a Great camera I still find new useful functions on this thing. Why not get a cheap phone for phone calls and one of these cameras for pictures.
Hi Peter does your phone take better quality photographs due to a larger sensor than the tg6 tough. That is apart from the advantages that you have mentioned, where it would be difficult to even take a photograph on the phone like you can on the TG6 tough. ?
If we talk about technical quality. phones are quite good to a certain extend. I always prefer a "real" camera. They have so many benefits, one being ergonomics. I time tot ime use my phone as a camera. It is quite handy in some situations. That is when I want to take a note about something. I might photograph something that I need to get back to. Another case is if I want to share something.
I always carry an Olympus Mju and have done so since 1994. In fact my first digital camera was a 3MP Mju Stylus 200 in 2004; I didnt replace my film Nikon with a digital camera till 2013. There is no need to belittle phones as they have astonishingly good cameras if you turn all this rubbish digital processing off permanently (tarring and feathering is too good for the person who started writing depth of field algorithms and silly filters, its the work of the devil). I often use my Pixel2 XL Panda and the images are fantastic but, a fixed 28mm lens is a severe limitation. Nowadays my current Mju is the TG-3 and it provides me with a zoom. I mostly put a prime on my main camera and carry the TG-3 in a pocket to provide a zoom; its wonderful. My prefered setup for the zoo is Panasonic GX9 with Olympus 45mm f1.8 and my Olympus TG-3 in my coat pocket; an unbeatable combination ;-)
Thank you for this. Perhaps my next camera for „immer dabei - in English: in your Pocket and Not at Home“ I would be interested in the difference to its predecessor TG5. Is the Monitor usable in bright sunshine?
One issue not mentioned is there’s no protection for the front glass, the cameras promoted as tough & shown on beaches & in rivers. These environments have sand & as there’s no way of putting a protective filter then the glass can be scratched. Getting it repaired costs around £150. Saying you don’t have to worry about anything is misleading, on every camera I own there’s a filter to avoid this issue but non of the so called Olympus Tough cameras have a way of protecting the glass from accidents.
@@ForsgardPeter I have the TG-5 and I've seen a protective lens filter for the TG series on the Olympus website. I was surprised it didn't come with a lens cap so I bought one, but that also required me to buy an adapter so the cap could attach. I really like the macro photos it takes. My biggest gripe is that on very sunny days the screen is washed out with light and I can't see. Also, I'd add privacy as the reason to get a dedicated camera. Many phone apps have access to your personal photos.
I had the TG-4 and the zoom stuffed up. So I bought a TG-5 and the zoom stuffed. The mechanism seemed the same and jams as well as that if you zoom while taking a video the motor noise is noisy on the finished video. I won't be buying another one.
Hi! I will be traveling to Switzerland and taking many photos of nature, mountain, waterfalls, landscapes. Do you have any suggestions on the settings for these types of photos and also for videos? Any advice is appreciated. I had an slr that broke and usually only use my TG got diving
Have just found your videos Peter and what a breath of fresh air they are. Most enjoyable and educating. Not sure if you can help? I am retired and getting fed up of carrying my old Canon DSLR around. I am considering the TG-6 based on your excellent review. I like photography but even at my age still struggle with the technicalities. I am torn between the TG-6 (looks great fun but do not need underwater)and the Canon G9x (better quality images). Shame neither have viewfinders. Any comments/help?
Well, I did not buy a phone with a really good camera -- on purpose. I did not want to be tempted to take important pictures with a phone. Too many compromises *for me* -- I have my Lumix G85 for important photos and video, an old Nikon L26 (14MP) point-and-shoot for quick snapshots, and then my overwhelming collection of vintage 35mm and 120 cameras and lenses for more creative film work. But I do see your points about the value of this camera -- it's as rugged as an action camera, but as usable as a good digital bridge camera -- both things which, for the most part, phones are not all that good at (yet -- sigh). Thank you Peter! Looks beautiful there in Finland!!!
What about the new TG-7. Do you think that will be better buy than the TG-6? I will buy my first underwater camera to bring in Holidays with my child and also to the slimming pool.
I am seriously thinking about getting this camera with all its accessories for my hiking camping and adventure travel camera. I'd like to see how it shoots portrait. I am not expecting it to perform like a camera with a pro prime lens but it would be nice to see how the pictures are like especially using the telephoto converter lens. Do you really need the underwater expensive case for this camera if I am not going too deep to take photos underwater?
Great video! =) I'm looking for a compact camera for macro photography of insects while using GPS, and this seems like the best option so far. Capturing birds would be nice as well, and the zoom in combination with procapture seems to make this somewhat doable. My girlfriend 'demands' that the camera can also be used for other everyday purposes (for example, making photos / videos of our daughter). Your video gives the impression that this camera can do this just fine. Would you recommend it for such purposes?
Hi Peter, I’m since 4 to 5 years a fanatic Olympus user. I possess two E-M1 bodies and almost the complete set of Zuiko 4/3 objectives and several other Olympus gear. In summer time I bought the TG-6 as a travel companion when I don’t drag my other stuff with me. On my E-M1 bodies I’m using on the LCD and LV the blue and orange under and overexposure colors. I’ve notices in the video that this is also a possibility on the TG-6 … but I don’t find nowhere how to set it up. Can you please give me the required info? Many Thanks.
Talking about the shutter button struggle on phones. Do you have the shutter gadget for your iPhone? So it has better camera grip and a real shutter button? I think it's only a thing for iPhones, but not android phones 😬
What lens do you recomend for taking close ups of mushrooms, and taking pictures of animals far away, and wide angle for mountain pictures? I would really appreciate some pointers
Good idea, because I want to do the Way to Santiago de Compostela from Oporto in December, but I have to spend and work hard why my lens is broken and need also a lens for my EM 5 Mk I. Live is as it comes, not as we plan sometimes. Thanks for the video.
@@ForsgardPeter I dont think so, the atachement from the lens to the body is out and conenctions out and some plastics from the lens to fix the attachement broken, i cost sobut 200 €
@@ForsgardPeter I am checking if I can buy the 14-150 4-5,6 II or the 40-150 4-5.6. The first is more expensive and is Waterproof the second not. I will check my availability and I will tell you. Thanks
Hi Peter, i have the very same camera and i love it. I am thinking of taking it outdoors to record some videos. Do i need somehow some microphones? I also have an E-M10 Mark III, but i am a little bit afraid for outside videos with that one.
Great video! Are you able to zoom in some on a subject while filming and have it focus well/blur the background. looking for something for better b roll and transition shots for my fishing channel.
I have had my Olympus TG-6 camera for about a month. I have had an om-d camera in the past and it was destroyed in an accident. The menu system of the TG-6 just does not mesh with my brain. I have no problems with my old Fujifilm and Sony RX100 as well has my even older Nikon and Canon's digital camera menus. Is there a video that you have made on set up and use of the Olympus TG-6 cameras. I could not find a way to do the bracketing of a hand full of Art Filters. Is this a feature of the TG cameras? I have read the manual from Olympus and now have a giant headache. Thanks for any help you can offer. I really enjoy your videos. They are very educational and of high quality. Thank You!
I got the Finnish army sleeping pad and sleep on it each night on top of a board in my van. That thing has a built in ground cloth. It's indestructible. I'm looking for the changes that will come in the TG7.
Hi and thank you for replying, Could you possibly do a video tutorial on how to use those lenses that are included in the package, the extra telephoto, HD 2.2xAF and the wide angle, HD 0.43x AF. absolutely no change when attached....
Can't get my hands on the TG6 where I live yet. Has anyone any comments on its performance when taking monochrome shots? I'm not into photoshop editing etc etc thanks
Great video...I love my TG4 and am planning on purchasing a TG6, especially after your video. I have seen some postings regarding a permanent pink/purple dot on the screen of the TG6, which apparently is a flaw. Should this be a concern or is it just a flaw in theirs do you think? Have you heard anything about this?
Hello Peter, thank you very much for your review. We are going to the North in a couple of months and I wondered if you would still recommend the TG-6 today? I do have a SX730HS and an iPhone 11. But I am a bit worried when we go hiking, Whale Watching on a RIP boat, Husky dog sledding and visiting a glacier in Iceland. Furthermore, I am looking at the FCON-01 lens, which appears to be able to do nice images when we travel in The North.
I have not. Yes those topics are on my bucket list of videos. Multiple exposure was covered breifly in one of my top 5 features videos. I try to dig it up and put a link here.
I have two questions. First, can the battery be charged while in the camera using USB? Second, can it be connected to your smartphone in order to use the phone as a remote viewfinder and to take pictures remotely?
I do not have the TG-6 right now, but if I remember correctly TG-6 cannot be used while charging. It can be used remotely with OI.Share app. It uses wifi for the connection.
@@ForsgardPeter Thank you for the reply. I was worried the battery had to be removed and placed in a separate charger. That would have been a deal breaker for me. While hiking I take a battery backup that charges my gear through USB.
If you pull out your compact camera to take a photo, you will not see that you have three emails, a new follower on instagram and 7 unread text messages...thus being distracted from the beauty surrounding you and your compact camera 😀
Nice point 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
So true hahaha
Also get a worse picture
I tried all kinds of normal cameras and phones to document breakdowns in factories, but they all ended up dead.
Since I got a TG-4 back in 2017 I never had it fail me - ever - not even in the worst conditions imaginable.
I am actually now looking at upgrading to a TG-6, not because there is anything wrong with my TG-6, but only because I want better video capabilities.
The TG series is a true workhorse, even in an engineering environment like mine.
Hi Peter, an update. I purchased the TG-6 at Christmas as a present for myself. I also use the TG-6 for my part time inspection photography work, which has me in various environments. This camera has always paid for itself over and over.
I use the TG-6 for travel these days. It's reliable and I enjoy the features that you discussed. Plus, the TG-6 allows me to use my smartphone for what it's designed to do: be a phone.
All the best!
Thanks for the info!
I have the TG-5 and agree it is better than my iPhone 8 for images. I bought it mainly for the durability, f2.0 lens, and raw capture. The macro capability is its most impressive feature. For me a major disappointment is that lack of manual mode. I agree with many that a “tough” camera with a 1” sensor would be great.
I love my TG-5. It goes everywhere with me. Some of my favorite photos of my kids are from the TG-5 because it’s so easy to take with me. I love the macro capabilities as well. I previously owned the TG-4. The TGs are worlds better than using a smartphone. Thanks for the video Peter.
Nice presentation! Time lapsing outdoors, e.g. while camping, with the camera attached to a power bank, and charging while in use (!), is my favourite feature.
Nice to know about this feature; thanks for sharing!
I love what you're saying about phones as cameras. A phone's camera is Ok to have if you've got nothing else. But I will ALWAYS prefer a camera over a phone with a camera.
It's a great camera!!! Another one that beats the competition... as a former Canon guy who was considering transitioning to Fuji I can only say that I'm so pleased to be an Olympus user now... they're so unique, different and so good!!! I'm in love with this brand like if it was the first time I picked it... Canon never did that for me...
@RK RocketKnight cool!
I love compact cameras. I still have two: the aforementioned Panasonic rugged camera and my old Pentax MX-1. Today, I got out my old Rollei 35 (Singapore model with the Rollei Tessar lens). I'm going to introduce my daughter to film photography soon.
Another reason this is a better choice than a phone: Lower risk. Even though the camera is expensive, we don't keep our whole LIVES on it, like we do on the phone. If it is lost or broken, it won't "hurt" as much as if we lost a $1k smart phone.
Last reason: using the camera will preserve the phone's battery. If a person is using his phone all day to snap vacation pix, he might find that it won't last until the end of the day. Then, inevitably, is when a person will fall and break his ankle in a remote area, then be unable to call for help.
I used a little Rollei 35 in the late 70s / early 80s for hiking trips in SW Tasmania when my OM1 would have been too heavy & too bulky. Got some great shots, until I stupidly left it on the side of a mountain 😥
On long remount adventures, taking a camera is essential, saving your phone battery for emergencies
Over the weekend Olympus had a 12 hour sale for this camera $249.00. I picked one up based on this review.
I love it. The macro is amazing. I will never shoot with my iPhone again.
That is an amazing price.
Just got a TG-6 for a trip I have coming up. I was very happy to find out that you can import the GPS logs from the TG and use them to geo-tag pictures on another camera (My E-M5III for example). So now I can use the TG-6 for tracking instead of the app on my phone.
Very cool! I did not know that it was possible! Thanks for the tip. I might share that in a future video.
@@ForsgardPeter The annoying part is the app can only be setup to connect to one camera at a time so you have to register the app to the TG, download the log, then redo the WiFi setup for the other camera, then add geotags to your images.
Totally agree with you 👏🏻 STYLUS TG series is a must to carry on everywhere (I own the 3 and the 6) and, on professional side, it is perfect to check composition & exposure, quite before to take my Lumix G9 or GX85 out the backpack for shooting (especially on extreme outdoors - e.g. beach, snow, mountains). Take care. See ya, blue skies 🤙🏻🍀📸
I'm with you on the durability. While I shoot mostly with my iPhone these days rather than my OM-D EM1 just for convenience, there are times - extreme cold or extreme heat - where the phone just stops working. I love my TG-4 and am debating about getting the TG-6.
Hi Peter, nice video. I own the TG-5 and for me it is also an advantage that you can take pictures in RAW. Also taking time lapses and correct the RAW images as a bundle is great.
I dislike iPhone cameras for the reasons you stated, and in searching for a pocket camera I figured waterproof dustproof and indestructible with dials you can use with wet fingers would be ideal. The TG6 has the best compromises in a small sensor pocket camera with decent photographs and a few solid photo features. Its my first camera without an EVF but considering all the other advantages I can handle that. Now I can keep a pocket camera in my pocket all the time. Thanks for the review, it made a lot of sense.
Great overview video of the Tough TG-6.
Before I got the TG-6 in 2020, I actually had the Olympus Tough TG-4 from 2014-2020. I used the TG-4 everywhere I went. I actually used it for all of my street photography photos during my month long trip to the Philippines in 2019. Despite it being a 5 year old camera at the time, I was able to take some of my all time favorite street photography photos. I currently use the Tough TG-6 as my main camera (even though I have my Lumix G9 with a couple of M Zuiko lenses.) due to how rugged and durable it is.
I hope that OM System announces a Tough TG-7 this year that wouldn't just be another Tough camera with minor upgrades. It is also great news that OM System confirmed that the Tough line will be continued due to how successful of a product line it is. I hope the new TG-7 would have:
1. Bigger battery to accommodate longer battery life
2. Slightly thicker and larger overall camera body for improved ergonomics
3. A larger sensor (maybe a 1 inch sensor)
4. Manual Control
5. New color option (silver camera body)
Another great feature is all of the modes and settings like one for snow scenes. Forgot about the light ring attachment, amazing.
1 cm focusing was just shocking! It's so good feature!
Thanks for making this video. A friend helped me pick the TG-6 a few months ago. It takes sharp pictures with so little effort. I'm not a photographer but wanted better pics for vacations as well as walking and hiking trails. I'm notoriously rough on outdoor gear, so I needed a camera that would withstand drops. This camera has that a lot of features that I'm very excited to learn more about. After watching your video, I want a light ring. Can we say there's a new hobby emerging? :-)
Greta to hear. Yes TG-6 is very durable.
I have always thought phones make terrible cameras...one other reason...they might ring when you are taking photos.Thanks for great info, I m an Olympus owner, I appreciate your channel.
Sometimes a phone is a very good camera, but as we see in the video it might not be the best after all.
A big reason that I like my TG-6 is because it is easy to use while riding a bike. The camera hangs from my wrist while riding. I can't drop it because it of the wrist strap. I can easily turn the camera on, zoom, and shoot with ONE hand while riding. I can take pictures behind me too. This falls under ergonomics.
My first digital camera was Olympus C-2100 with 10x optical zoom & 2,1 megapixels resolution.Actually it was one of the first bridge cameras. People was very happy with photos I produced on this camera, even from very beginning Olympus skin tones was excellent.And 2.1mpx was fully enough for 10x15 photos. Regarding TG6 many consider Olympus as best in tough cameras field.
Thanks Peter I haven’t used my TG-5 in quite awhile now but I think I’ll dig it out and take it with me more often. Cheers.
Great video Peter :) I've got a TG-3 which I take out with me on my little boat. For me it's much, much nicer to use than a phone and unlike most phones it doesn't mind getting wet. At some point I'll upgrade to a TG-5 or TG-6.
Thanks. The difference between TG-5 and TG-6 are not very big.
My first Olympus was a TG-4 I bought only for a vacation were I would be skin diving, and it was rated very good. Indeed it was very good and I got some phenomenal pictures of reef fishes. Two years later I bought an OM-D E-M5 Mark II, and was amazed at the quality and especially the in-camera features. Later that I year the TG-4 came out for another holiday, by then I was more familiar with the Olympus menus and I was shocked to find the Live Comp and even a macro focus stack feature! In-camera stack, not just bracket. I still use the TG-4, but when it is not longer adequate or I finally manage to kill it, I will definitely purchase the next in the TG line.
Yes, TG-series have quite amazing features in them.
I have an Oly Tough Stylus with 5 X zoom. The only thing I don't like and wish it had was M,A,S,P modes. I don't know of any P&S cameras from Olympus that have these options. Cell phones with 2 lenses, actually have 2 seperate cameras, one behind each lens. You didn't mention how the sensor in a cell phone compares to that of a good camera and the imaging processing power of a camera processor vs a cell phone processor or flash of a cell phone vs an Oly P&S. Cell phones are basically designed to be phones with a camera. I only know of one cell phone that is designed as a camera with a phone. That is the KODAK EKTAR phone. It doesn't have an optical zoom lens either. However as with all things designed to multitask you have a choice, either you get a good camera with a mediocre phone, or a good phone with a mediocre camera. The best camera you own is the camera you have with you. If all you have with you is the camera in your cell phone by all means use it for photography. I have an iphone XR, takes good pictures, but I'll use my Oly tough any time ove it.
I have the TG2, used to take it driving and the super macro feature can focus in on pixel elements on your monitor
Excellent video, Peter. You have convinced me that I should place an order for the new TG6 this week!
Cool!
You just talked me into plunking down 5 bills for the TG-6. It's interesting you led the vid with "are you thinking of an old phone upgrade just to get a better camera??" bc that's EXACTLY how this started. I LOVE my little iPhone 5S, don't need lots of hi tech, and the price difference between that and a new 12-mini turns out to be more than a nice combo beginning set for the TG-6. Definitely going to add that light ring, too. Great video and...thanks!
Thanks for a great review, I have a TG-6 being delivered today! Subscribed!
Thanks for the sub!
I learn a lot from you about Olympus cameras and photography. Kiitos!
One thing you didn't comment on (piggy-backing on Reason 5 [Durability]) is that this camera's durability makes it a good first REAL camera for a kid. Not any kid, just kids of photographers. (as no one else will want to invest that much in kid's camera) Right now, my daughter has an older Panasonic rugged camera. Soon, it will be time to upgrade, as it does not do well at all in low light. I will have to check, but I think the sensor is larger on this TG6 than my Panasonic from several years ago.
Nice job on the video.
That is a good point about this camera being suitable for kids.
Loved the macro images!
Your review did the trick. I purchased one today. But bought the upgrade instead the TG -6. Been on the market for a compAct camera but just didn’t know which one.
Hello from Atlanta Georgia in the USA thank you for sharing this wonderful camera you did a great presentation now I see the five reasons why I need this camera thank you again
Great!
Thanks for such an informative and fun video.
I'm thinking about the TG-6 for hiking and everyday use. I have an old Nikon Coolpix P310 that I still use. The Nikon beats the smartphone thanks to having that good Nikon glass, and I don't have to hunt for the "shutter button" on my phone's screen.
Thanks for the walk-through on the TG-6. It's going to be the first purchase with my next paycheque. And it will be so much lighter than the Nikon D800 plus macro lens to which I have been addicted. Can't wait to get started!
Hello, after 2 years, what is your opinion on this camera? I have d7200+flash+macro lens and it is bulky and heavy, I want to have something easy to carry in long hikes. Do you recommend TG-6?
Thanks for the great review and good info on why designated cameras are still good to have for people who like photography. Thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
+ very useful zoom range - compared to even professional compact cams like LX100
+ GPS notation
+ practical accessories
Thanks, I check these out with each release, and I'm still waiting for one with a 1" sensor format...! I like the concept, though :)
I'd prefer a prime or very limited zoom range to a sub-1" sensor - perhaps like the GR or X100-series it could have long and wide adaptors for other focal lengths, or even come in two focal length options (a 1" sensor also affords digital crop/zoom that's no worse than a phone-sensor image...)
Hi Peter great video again, I have recently purchased a tg6 for mostly hiking and biking ,my em5 mk2 is just a bit to big to stuff in the rucksack although I have been doing that several years , the tg6 looks more suitable for outdoor activities and you don't have be constantly worried about damaging the em mk5 2.
For multi-week hiking trips with limited access to power points for charging, I pre-charge 3 or 4 spare batteries. That has always worked for me.
Another GREAT reason for preferring the TG5 to an iPhone is that in freezing cold weather [e.g. -5C in Chicago] I used my TG-5 with gloves on. Can't do THAT with an iPhone!!
Not sure if stated below but one additional reason, simple phone and TG-5, no more data charges hence save money for other more important things like beer.
Well done, Peter. I was considering a newer iPhone myself for photography and other reasons. But I think - why not just use my old iphone 4 for phoning and text, eh? How many computers do you need anyway. I love landscape photography but am also trying out light-painting, time-laspe and slow mo, etc., etc. So yes I think this one is for me. Thanks
Great Video Peter, I am a recent purchaser of a TG-6 I'm very impressed! Thanks for sharing
Great to hear!
Thank you!
Not sure what changed, but the quality of your videos seem to have improved quite noticably! Great content as always.
Thanks a lot! Have tried to improve my content.
I was really disappointed with a Pentax, similar to the TG5, got mushy IQ definitely worst than my smartphone. You've got me thinking about the TG-6 with your video
Fair list. Been eyeing those Olympus TGs for a while. Currently use a Ricoh WG-30 that has produced many serviceable shots but also many low quality images. Since I also have a fair-weather bridge camera that always produces good results, I hope my skill or lack thereof is not part of the problem. The very low resolution screen on the Ricoh probably lends to my not being able to tell when the focus is on the correct object. That high pixel screen on the TG-6 sounds like the answer to my needs!
I was really disappointed with a Pentax, similar to the TG5, got mushy IQ definitely worst than my smartphone. You've got me thinking about the TG-6 with your video.
Very cool indeed. I also noticed that my display warns me if cardslot 2 is empty. That is also new. For me it is nice because i shoot raw to card 1 and jpg to card 2.
You should use that to photograph saltwater reef tank underwater and you'll be amaze by the coral colors.
I have a tg5 and it's a Great camera I still find new useful functions on this thing. Why not get a cheap phone for phone calls and one of these cameras for pictures.
Good video. I have the TG870 Stylus. Im happy with this one as it has a flip screen.
Hi Peter does your phone take better quality photographs due to a larger sensor than the tg6 tough. That is apart from the advantages that you have mentioned, where it would be difficult to even take a photograph on the phone like you can on the TG6 tough. ?
If we talk about technical quality. phones are quite good to a certain extend. I always prefer a "real" camera. They have so many benefits, one being ergonomics. I time tot ime use my phone as a camera. It is quite handy in some situations. That is when I want to take a note about something. I might photograph something that I need to get back to. Another case is if I want to share something.
Thanks Peter.
I always carry an Olympus Mju and have done so since 1994. In fact my first digital camera was a 3MP Mju Stylus 200 in 2004; I didnt replace my film Nikon with a digital camera till 2013. There is no need to belittle phones as they have astonishingly good cameras if you turn all this rubbish digital processing off permanently (tarring and feathering is too good for the person who started writing depth of field algorithms and silly filters, its the work of the devil). I often use my Pixel2 XL Panda and the images are fantastic but, a fixed 28mm lens is a severe limitation. Nowadays my current Mju is the TG-3 and it provides me with a zoom. I mostly put a prime on my main camera and carry the TG-3 in a pocket to provide a zoom; its wonderful. My prefered setup for the zoo is Panasonic GX9 with Olympus 45mm f1.8 and my Olympus TG-3 in my coat pocket; an unbeatable combination ;-)
Today is January 8th, 2023. This review is 3 years old. Would you still recommend this camera?
Yes I would.
I was sold on the circular fisheye selfie.
Great Video Peter, great points. This is a amazing little camera.
Thanks. TG-6 is a small amazing camera!
Macro= WoW! Nice clip!
The TG-5/6 can also be used for gps tracking. Unfortunately, I am not happy with the image quality on the long end of the zoom range.
question for the expert ( you ) : how can the intervall of pct can be changed in live composite mode ?
Thanks
Great review 👍thx for sharing
Thank you and Thanks for watching!
8. Raw image processing for better dynamic range
Good review. This is exactly what i was looking for. Straight to the point and no BS. Have you made a review about the Sony RX0 II? Thanks in advance.
No I have not. That could be something I could test.
@@ForsgardPeter Great! Thanks.
Great review. Good points. Thank you
Thank you.
this is nice camera i love it
Thank you for this. Perhaps my next camera for „immer dabei - in English: in your Pocket and Not at Home“
I would be interested in the difference to its predecessor TG5.
Is the Monitor usable in bright sunshine?
Like all screens it is quite hard to see anything in bright light
Excellent review, Peter.
Thanks.
One issue not mentioned is there’s no protection for the front glass, the cameras promoted as tough & shown on beaches & in rivers. These environments have sand & as there’s no way of putting a protective filter then the glass can be scratched. Getting it repaired costs around £150. Saying you don’t have to worry about anything is misleading, on every camera I own there’s a filter to avoid this issue but non of the so called Olympus Tough cameras have a way of protecting the glass from accidents.
You have a point and the back screen gets scratch easily. The front glass was not a problem when I tested this camera.
@@ForsgardPeter I have the TG-5 and I've seen a protective lens filter for the TG series on the Olympus website. I was surprised it didn't come with a lens cap so I bought one, but that also required me to buy an adapter so the cap could attach. I really like the macro photos it takes. My biggest gripe is that on very sunny days the screen is washed out with light and I can't see. Also, I'd add privacy as the reason to get a dedicated camera. Many phone apps have access to your personal photos.
I had the TG-4 and the zoom stuffed up. So I bought a TG-5 and the zoom stuffed. The mechanism seemed the same and jams as well as that if you zoom while taking a video the motor noise is noisy on the finished video. I won't be buying another one.
Good video. I agree.
Thanks.
Hi! I will be traveling to Switzerland and taking many photos of nature, mountain, waterfalls, landscapes. Do you have any suggestions on the settings for these types of photos and also for videos? Any advice is appreciated. I had an slr that broke and usually only use my TG got diving
Just set the camera to P-mode and concentrate on the composition, subject etc. I think you will get the best results.
Have just found your videos Peter and what a breath of fresh air they are. Most enjoyable and educating. Not sure if you can help? I am retired and getting fed up of carrying my old Canon DSLR around. I am considering the TG-6 based on your excellent review. I like photography but even at my age still struggle with the technicalities. I am torn between the TG-6 (looks great fun but do not need underwater)and the Canon G9x (better quality images). Shame neither have viewfinders. Any comments/help?
TG-6 and g9x are a bit different cameras for different use. So you must decide based on what you like to make images of, when and in what conditions.
Well, I did not buy a phone with a really good camera -- on purpose. I did not want to be tempted to take important pictures with a phone. Too many compromises *for me* -- I have my Lumix G85 for important photos and video, an old Nikon L26 (14MP) point-and-shoot for quick snapshots, and then my overwhelming collection of vintage 35mm and 120 cameras and lenses for more creative film work. But I do see your points about the value of this camera -- it's as rugged as an action camera, but as usable as a good digital bridge camera -- both things which, for the most part, phones are not all that good at (yet -- sigh). Thank you Peter! Looks beautiful there in Finland!!!
Thanks. Right now the summer is as its best. It is light almost all the time.
@@ForsgardPeter -- getting more daytime hours would be great here -- extra time in the evening to hike and take pictures!!!
We have plenty during summer, but then the winter is totally opposite...
@@ForsgardPeter -- well, in the winter I would hibernate! :-)
What about the new TG-7. Do you think that will be better buy than the TG-6? I will buy my first underwater camera to bring in Holidays with my child and also to the slimming pool.
TG-7 is a better camera than TG-6. On the other hand TG-6 can be a lot cheaper if it is still available.
I am seriously thinking about getting this camera with all its accessories for my hiking camping and adventure travel camera. I'd like to see how it shoots portrait. I am not expecting it to perform like a camera with a pro prime lens but it would be nice to see how the pictures are like especially using the telephoto converter lens. Do you really need the underwater expensive case for this camera if I am not going too deep to take photos underwater?
You do not any extra case. Extra case is only needed if going deeper than 15 meters.
@@ForsgardPeter it's almost the same price of the camera....
Great video! =) I'm looking for a compact camera for macro photography of insects while using GPS, and this seems like the best option so far. Capturing birds would be nice as well, and the zoom in combination with procapture seems to make this somewhat doable. My girlfriend 'demands' that the camera can also be used for other everyday purposes (for example, making photos / videos of our daughter). Your video gives the impression that this camera can do this just fine. Would you recommend it for such purposes?
For macro this is very good. Also everyday shooting is ok with this camera. For birds maybe not so much.
Ohh my gud!!! I have a MII, it`s very very god. And what can be better complement??
Hi Peter,
I’m since 4 to 5 years a fanatic Olympus user. I possess two E-M1 bodies and almost the complete set of Zuiko 4/3 objectives and several other Olympus gear.
In summer time I bought the TG-6 as a travel companion when I don’t drag my other stuff with me.
On my E-M1 bodies I’m using on the LCD and LV the blue and orange under and overexposure colors.
I’ve notices in the video that this is also a possibility on the TG-6 … but I don’t find nowhere how to set it up. Can you please give me the required info? Many Thanks.
Talking about the shutter button struggle on phones. Do you have the shutter gadget for your iPhone? So it has better camera grip and a real shutter button? I think it's only a thing for iPhones, but not android phones 😬
I do have one from Pictar (I think it is Pictar). It is ok, but not hat great. I still would not want to step on my iPhone....
What lens do you recomend for taking close ups of mushrooms, and taking pictures of animals far away, and wide angle for mountain pictures? I would really appreciate some pointers
If you have an Olympus/OM SYSTEM camera, the 14-150mm lens is quite versatile. It is not a macro lens, but mushrooms should be ok.
Good idea, because I want to do the Way to Santiago de Compostela from Oporto in December, but I have to spend and work hard why my lens is broken and need also a lens for my EM 5 Mk I.
Live is as it comes, not as we plan sometimes.
Thanks for the video.
Hope you get your lenses fixed.
@@ForsgardPeter I dont think so, the atachement from the lens to the body is out and conenctions out and some plastics from the lens to fix the attachement broken, i cost sobut 200 €
Ou no!
@@ForsgardPeter I have already seen at a store the 40-150 R no so expensive, 4.0-5.6 is the most I can do. I will check it.
@@ForsgardPeter I am checking if I can buy the 14-150 4-5,6 II or the 40-150 4-5.6.
The first is more expensive and is Waterproof the second not.
I will check my availability and I will tell you.
Thanks
Hi Peter, i have the very same camera and i love it. I am thinking of taking it outdoors to record some videos. Do i need somehow some microphones? I also have an E-M10 Mark III, but i am a little bit afraid for outside videos with that one.
Great video!
Are you able to zoom in some on a subject while filming and have it focus well/blur the background. looking for something for better b roll and transition shots for my fishing channel.
I have had my Olympus TG-6 camera for about a month. I have had an om-d camera in the past and it was destroyed in an accident. The menu system of the TG-6 just does not mesh with my brain. I have no problems with my old Fujifilm and Sony RX100 as well has my even older Nikon and Canon's digital camera menus. Is there a video that you have made on set up and use of the Olympus TG-6 cameras. I could not find a way to do the bracketing of a hand full of Art Filters. Is this a feature of the TG cameras? I have read the manual from Olympus and now have a giant headache. Thanks for any help you can offer. I really enjoy your videos. They are very educational and of high quality. Thank You!
Thank you. I do not have the TG-6 right so I cannot unfortunately comment on if it is possible to bracket the Art-filters.
I got the Finnish army sleeping pad and sleep on it each night on top of a board in my van. That thing has a built in ground cloth. It's indestructible. I'm looking for the changes that will come in the TG7.
Is there a way to fix the blurry shots because of shaking?
You can test Photo AI or Sharpen AI. www.topazlabs.com/topaz-photo-ai/ref/644/
the link provided for the live composite video is different. can you create a separate video on how to do live comp for tg-6?
Any chance you could do a separate video for underwater photography? The macro capabilities blew my mind and I love shooting macro underwater.
The TG-6 I had in the video was from Olympus Finland. I had to take it back. Unfortunately, it is not possible right now.
Peter Forsgård I understand. Thank you for your answer though.
Marieta S. check out “backscatter” channel. They have underwater tutorial of TG-6.
Hi and thank you for replying, Could you possibly do a video tutorial on how to use those lenses that are included in the package, the extra telephoto, HD 2.2xAF and the wide angle, HD 0.43x AF. absolutely no change when attached....
Unfortunately I do not have a TG-6. I had that camera only for the test and returned it to Olympus.
Can't get my hands on the TG6 where I live yet. Has anyone any comments on its performance when taking monochrome shots? I'm not into photoshop editing etc etc thanks
Great video...I love my TG4 and am planning on purchasing a TG6, especially after your video. I have seen some postings regarding a permanent pink/purple dot on the screen of the TG6, which apparently is a flaw. Should this be a concern or is it just a flaw in theirs do you think? Have you heard anything about this?
No I have not heard about that.
Hello Peter, thank you very much for your review. We are going to the North in a couple of months and I wondered if you would still recommend the TG-6 today?
I do have a SX730HS and an iPhone 11. But I am a bit worried when we go hiking, Whale Watching on a RIP boat, Husky dog sledding and visiting a glacier in Iceland. Furthermore, I am looking at the FCON-01 lens, which appears to be able to do nice images when we travel in The North.
With the TG-6 you do need to worry about anything. It will hold all those conditions.
Hi Peter...have you done videos about time lapse and multiple exposure photography on Em1 Mk2? If not, would you consider showing us how it's done?
I have not. Yes those topics are on my bucket list of videos. Multiple exposure was covered breifly in one of my top 5 features videos. I try to dig it up and put a link here.
I have two questions. First, can the battery be charged while in the camera using USB? Second, can it be connected to your smartphone in order to use the phone as a remote viewfinder and to take pictures remotely?
I do not have the TG-6 right now, but if I remember correctly TG-6 cannot be used while charging. It can be used remotely with OI.Share app. It uses wifi for the connection.
@@ForsgardPeter Thank you for the reply. I was worried the battery had to be removed and placed in a separate charger. That would have been a deal breaker for me. While hiking I take a battery backup that charges my gear through USB.
@@mrq1701 Buy a spare battery....who does not carry a spare? and I hike too, sometimes always 1 spare and sometimes 2.
The exposure peaking was explained, but does this camera feature focus peaking? Thanks
Yes i has. Go to the special menu A and choose Focus assist. There you have magnify and peaking.
Great review ! How is the camera to cold tempratures?
Very good camera for bad weather.
Is it an "action camera" like Go Pro or different animal?
It is kind of an action cam, but I would discribe it: same, same but different.