Olympus 45mm f1.8 Lens USA - amzn.to/2VuuOuD UK - amzn.to/2AthCxb DE - amzn.to/2AAfuUK Macro Extension Tubes USA - amzn.to/2YvOnmW UK - amzn.to/2E9iLvH DE - amzn.to/2W2foBa 37mm Lens Hood USA - amzn.to/2HjY6qX UK - amzn.to/2JjlG9r DE - amzn.to/2WNgqxW Godox TT350o Flash: USA - amzn.to/2RPJp51 UK - amzn.to/2QO0BU0 Donations to support my channel greatly appreciated! www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=76UF47BN2ZJA6 Social: Instagram: instagram.com/robtreklens/ Facebook: facebook.com/RobTrekLens/ My Blog: robtrek.com Recommended Gear*: www.amazon.com/shop/robtrek My eBay Store*: ebay.to/2DuHOt8 *We are a participant in the Ebay and Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Ebay.com Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Couldn't agree more! You will not regret getting a 45mm lens! Once you are bored with the 45, go buy the 25. I will never get the 75, too rich for my blood. Great video, keep em coming!
Hi Rob.............As always thanks for sharing......... I have a Nikon 50mm 1.4 AIS. No point in having this 45mm 1.8. I really don't miss the auto focus and the Olympus in body manual focus assist with magnify and peak focussing is awesome. Any decent 50mm manual lens from the usual suspects up to f2.0 will do the same. My Asahi Pentax SMC 50mm1.8 is one of my favourites. It is up there with any lens currently made.
I like the OM 50mm f/1.8 and Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 pancake. A bit more compact than the 50mm 1.4. I actually tried a focal reducer on my Nikon 50mm 1.4 to get at 35mm f/1. Fun times!
@@RobTrek Hi Rob. I have been kind of put off of buying any old manual OM lenses as in most cases the front elements section can't be serviced. If you get fungus creep into the front element section there is nothing you can do about it. I like the Nikon Series E pancake but it is no longer a reasonable price for me in the UK. To get one over here in above average condition is like $150.00. I will keep looking for one to come up at a reasonable price.
Rob I have sent you a few $ for a coffee kinda thing. I have to live on a small amount of money here in the UK., like State pension.....When I can spare a coffee for you "you know I will".... Really appreciate the time you give and have learned a lot about the Olympus M4/3 system. You helped me realise after a lifetime of coming from film to digital..... that we don't need full frame or DX to produce world class images.
Great video! I totally agree with your choice of lenses. Can you make a video using the 45mm for portraits, maybe like a little tutorial, with some advice and techniques to get better and more artsy photos?
I own and use the 45mm f/1.8 Olympus. However, it was the third lens I purchased for my micro 4/3 because based on my shooting style, I know that I rely more on normal and wide lenses than telephoto lenses. The 20mm f/1.7 Panasonic normal lens was the first lens I purchased and the 14mm f/2.5 Panasonic wide-angle lens was the second. The forth lens I purchased was the 14-45mm f/3.5 - f/5.6 zoom which I used as a backup to my three prime lenses. The fifth lens I purchased was a Panasonic 45-200mm f/4 - f/5.6 to use when I needed something longer than 45mm in focal length. The last lens I purchased was a refurbished 17mm f/2.8 because it only cost me $75 and I could use it as a backup lens.
Very useful thank you Rob! It helps me understand the purposes of 17mm vs 35/45mm more. Also I was not aware of macro tubes, that's amazing. I will pick one up from the Canadian amazon if they have them, hopefully.
Good info. Always enjoy your videos. Just got my 17mm & 14-150mm travel kit but the 45mm is on my list and I'm using my 40-150mm with extension tubes. My favorite lens with my old Pentax was 35mm and 100mm. I like shooting with my Olympus 17mm and use my 40-150mm at 40mm, so it makes sense to get the 45mm prime lens.
Thanks. You have a great setup. I think the 45 will be a nice addition. I loved shooting with my vintage Nkon 105mm AI. I may have to do a video on it showing the joy of shooting telephoto.
So very interesting thing about this video... I got started with M43 just over a year ago. I'm currently deployed and wanted something WAY lighter to carry around than the Canon 70D I had back at home. Like you suggested in this video, I got the kit lens, then the 40-150mm zoom, and then first prime? Yup, the 45mm. To this day it's still my favorite lens. About the only thing I did differently is I went with an older OM-D E-M1 over a new entry-level one :) Your video is absolutely spot on. I've now replaced the kit lens with the 12-40mm Pro, and it's a nice general purpose one, but it doesn't do the same thing as the 45mm. The huge difference is the bokeh. I bought an OM system Macro to try a vintage lens, but your video got me curious -- I'm going to try shooting some stuff with the 45mm and extension tubes. :) Guess the question - since you pretty much hit me perfectly, what's the next prime? Got a good idea, but curious your take...
Well, it's a tough call from here. Let me think this through. For me it was the 12mm f/2. But that's because I do vlogging. The 75mm is a bit too special purpose but that was my next lens as I do portraits time to time. The 300mm is too pricey for what I do as well. So that narrows it down to the 17mm, 20mm, and 25mm. Since the 12-40pro already covers all of these, it comes down to size and weight. I'd say the Panasonic 20mm f/1.7 is is your future. Fast, sharp, and pancake size. General purpose focal length, not too wide, not too close to the 45mm. If you want to stick with Olympus, then the 17mm. Probably not as sharp as the 20mm wide open, but a very useful focal length for street shooting and travel. Being a tad wider, manual focus ring, and compact, might be the better choice and a perfect match to the 45mm. Keep one on the camera, one in the pocket.
@@RobTrek Hmmm, OK :) I was thinking the 25mm because of the "nifty fifty" thing which to be honest besides supposedly the perspective of the eye, I wasn't sure what that would get me. I think I like your suggestion better... I like the versatility of the 12-40mm Pro, but I'm more about weight, and that's about as heavy as I'd want to go. I have no interest in the 40-150mm Pro for that reason. One of the reasons I love my 45mm Prime is the f/1.8. So even though I'm covered, I still see myself getting primes in the future... Thanks!
Lovely video here. Lots complaint about not shallow enough the depth of field of this len, but you show me the way how me make use of it here. Tiny little len just Nice out, tq!!🤏👍
Excellent video, as always, Rob. If I didn't already own the original 4/3 Zuiko 50mm f/2.0 Macro (with mft adapter), I would run out and buy this 45mm f/1.8, immediately.
My route with Pen-f was first the 25mm then the 45mm. I agree with most of your observations. One other reason to buy the f1.8 primes is size/weight. Challenge: put the 45mm f1.8 in one pants pocket and the bigger zoom or the f1.2 version in another pocket. The small prime travels better, imo. 🤔
I wanted to mention the small size/weight, as I think it's one of the lightest of all lenses from Olympus. Honestly, I forgot. But is is an important factor for many. Thanks for sharing.
It's also on sale right now for $289. It seems too good to pass up. I'd appreciate knowing more if you have the time. Is it suitable for travel? How well does the autofocus work? I'm looking for a fast prime at about that focal length to take to China later this year.
Have this prime - love the focal length (similar to my old canon 85 1.8). Nice info on the extension tubes, I’ve been looking for a cheap fake macro lens so this is perfect for me.
Absolutely agree, I can't say enough good things about this lens. Brilliant video and well thought out presentation of your proposition, very convincing. I've been having fun and putting on instagram with some russian lenses using an L39 adaptor, great fun!
Thanks! Haven't done anything with Russian Lenses, but do have a nice collection of vintage Nikon and Minolta glass. Will do a video about those one day.
Hi Rob Just a note.I bought a lens hood for my 45mm f1.8 but after recieving it,i was stunt to try and fit the hood and i just could not see how it will fit on the lens.I try reading reviews and looking at youtube vlogs but just could not get anything to advise me on the lens hood.I then wrote to olympus and ask for advise and was really stunt and very surprice to learn about removing the " decorative ring " on front of the lens.I could then manage to attach the lenshood after removing the ring.I do not see many people nentioning this in vlogs and even reviews.Just a interesting note.
Thanks. Yes, the decorative ring can be easy to miss. I'll have to mention that on lenses that I review. As I use hoods that usually screw into the filter threads, I often forget to mention that other hoods require removal of the decorative ring.
I'm here because I'm thinking to buy this little lens. I always enjoy your exposed subjects and the brilliant demos you apport on your channel. Very matter of fact, yes. I might have. a little personal observation; a pet peeve: Why is most of the main subject dedicated, not only on your videos or someone else's, by the way, the matter of depth of field, as if it was the main reason to buy a lens? It seems to me that this is the most important reason to value a lens when we can always concentrate on composition, angle of view, and perspective? Everybody is concentrating on bokeh.... I sometimes see images where the nose is in focus and the ears are out of focus. Lens apertures are more significant than just shallow depth of field. This is not a critic, Sir. Just a personal point of view. Keep on sharing.
Thanks for the feedback. For this particular lens, being used for portraits, the bokeh is a consideration. It's a common question for all lenses, so I always address it. I agree with you though, it's only one of many things to consider and it really shouldn't be a priority with most lenses.
@@RobTrek Thanks for your kind feedback, Rob. You not only have the looks of a Gentleman, but you also act like one. Keep on sharing. Have a great Season!
Great review...! A short tele lens is a perfect choice for portraits, faces in particular. Just like your pictures show. Good of you to point out, that the distance to subject and features is very neutral...just right amount of exclusion around it. (A portrait with a wider lens shows more surroundings, a person and space...personal space.)
@Rob Trek For sure, best first prime...! We learn to zoom with our feet. Material for another series of yours down the line...? Comparing old and new glass...? You have many reviews of different lenses.Like you, I also use old primes...enjoy the f stops and distance scales.
Hi Rob, I have a technical question. We already know that the focal length and aperture of MFT lenses must be multiplied by 2. So does that mean that a 45mm f1.8 MFT lens is like a 90mm f3.6 in Full Frame? So we can't achieve a true aperture of 1.8 with MFT lenses? Tnanks, Medi
Hi Rob, Thanks for another great video. I have the 14-42 kit lens and the 40 -150 , and am considering the 45 f1/8. Can you recommend the best lens for product photography? (to be used for online ecommerce ) I have the OMD EMD10 II Best regards Braden
Thanks. Either the Olympus 30mm or 60mm macro lens depending on subject size. Macro lenses are designed to be up close with zero distortion so ideal for product work. That said, for basic things like ebay photos I'd stick with the 14-42 kit lens.
The 45mm is a good lens and gives lovely colourful results, but I'd suggest the Panasonic 20mm F1.7 first as it can be used for street photography, landscape and to a degree close-up work so is more practical.
The Panasonic 20mm f1.7 is definitively on my list, but at least in my case I rarely do street photography in low light (might be that I don't feel very comfortable taking my camera out at night in my city) so I can get very good results with the 14-42 kit lens.
@@Jormungandr69 If you know what you are doing, it's possible to get good results with most kit these days so if you're happy with the kit you have don't rush to buy more. What I like about the P20mm is the simplicity of it. It's compact and easy to pre-focus or use in AF mode. If you do go for one, try to get the original as is considered the better image quality version.
www.flickr.com/photos/127459554@N06/44888183572/in/dateposted-public/ < That isn't meant to be a shameless plug for my photography! It's just an example of using the Pen F with the P20mm at night handheld, and why I like it even though I have the big three Oly Pro zoom lenses.
@Richard Thanks for sharing your thoughts and awesome flickr pics! I hear only good things about the 20mm and I love pancake lenses. It's on my short list of things to get that I don't need LOL! As I said in the video, it was a tough call between the 45 and 25 for me to make a recommendation. The 25 is a more practical choice, but it's practically covered with the kit lens. Ultimately I felt the 45 would make the biggest difference, but it all depends I suppose.
I really enjoyed this video. I know it’s a little older but new for me as I just bought my first M43 -OM1. What are your feelings on the 17mm f/1.2 or hold onto your hard earned money for something else?
I don't have the 17mm 1.2, but I've only heard good things about it. I prefer smaller lenses like the 17mm 1.8. If you shoot for money, then the pro series of lenses make more sense.
So with the Prime lens I wont be able to focus on a subject that is 2 m away and then another that is 5 meters away with the ring on the lens? Is there any setting on the camera to set the focus on any subject in the frame? Sorry about this because I got confused, Thanks
When you have the extension tube on, you can't focus much beyond 2m. Extension tubes change the optics of the lens so it can no longer focus beyond a certain distance.
@Rob Trek and without the extension tube, can the 45mm be focused on 10m or 4 m objects? I m considering an all rounder lens for Olympus EP7 csmera Thanks agaib
Hi Rob! Thanks for another great video! I completely agree with you, that 45mm f1.8 is something special indeed, specially with that price tag, it's unbeatable! My first prime was the 17mm f1.8 (which I love) and I purchased the 45mm just a couple of months ago but if i had to start now, I would choose the 45mm because it gives much more. I was curious about those expansion tubes on the 45mm, but I own the 60mm macro lens (it is amazingly sharp). The 45mm is also very sharp, so, in your opinion, does it beat the dedicated macro lens? Thank you.
Thanks. I really can't say since I don't own the 60mm. But dedicated macro lenses are usually the sharpest lenses with the least distortion at close distances.
thnx lot for vedio.i have olympus pen e-p7 with lens 45mm f1.8 and this is good for potrtai.plz give advice for best lens for vlogin and vedio.tbnx again
What about adapted lenses ? One of the reasons i bought my OMD EM10 iii was to use my old OM mount lenses. I have the 50mm f1.8 prime and a Vivitar 70-210 zoom as well as a 28mm wide.. How about a primer on focus peaking love your videos, thanks !
Years ago, I took photos with 45mm f/1.8 and 25mm 1.4 most of the time , but when I compared their color, I noticed that the color of 45mm was "too warm" and "not attractive". I'm wondering whether the lens got problem or it is normal for 45mm f/1.8.
Yes, it certainly is. I don't own that one and I wanted to stay within the Olympus brand. I considered that lens over the more expensive 75mm last year.
Hi Rob. First of all many thanx for your inspirative videos ! I have a small question for you. I own a old Olympus E520 (4/3 socket) and a friend gave me a 45mm f1. 8 (so mft) as a present. Is there any way to connect them ? I searched the internet but I only found adapters for 4/3 lens to mft cameras, not the opposite.... Or do I have to plan a camera change ? Thanx in advance !
Thanks. Sorry, no way to adapt m4/3 to 4/3rds that I know of. The problem is the flange distance for m4/3 is much smaller than 4/3rds. So an adapter would push the lens into the mirror.
Oh... Ok, then in the near future I will change my camera ! I was thinking about an E-M10 mark iii, powerful but not too expensive. Do you recommend it ? I read its viewfinder is not well suitable for people wearing glasses (like me)... Is it really a big or a minor issue ? Thanks in advance
@@maurovendri4987 I'm not sure about the viewfinder as I don't wear glasses (yet). However, I'd recommend the e-m5ii over the em10 series. You should be able to find one between $300 and $400 in near mint used or new if you shop around.
Onestly I chose the e-m10 iii because I found a good offer (body + 14-42 + 40-150) at a good price, about 610€ (that's 740$, but I live in Italy). In this way I would have got a new camera, two zoom lenses plus the 45mm that I already own.... Anyway I will think about a e-m5 ii.... Thank you for the suggestion !
@@maurovendri4987 The E-10iii will certainly give just as good images as any of the current Olympus cameras. The only deal breaker for me was the lack of custom settings or mysets. But it has arguably better AF, 4k video, and a deeper buffer for continuous shooting.
Rob- are you planning to test Sigma 56 mm f1.4 lens? I'm still thinking which one I should buy as next: Oly 45 mm or this Sigma 56 mm. I already own Oly 12-40 and now looking for some portrait lens with at least f1.8.
No plans for the 56mm. Seems like a nice lens and viable alternative to the 45mm. Lighting is more important for portrait work. LIke the kit lens shot in this video was not bad at all and I could give that to a client.
They are both very good lenses. I think the 25mm is a bit sharper at the wider (lower number) apertures. For physical differences, the 45mm is a little smaller. Look here for exact specs: www.four-thirds.org/en/microft/single.html
Hello and thanks for your vids! They're really helpful, I've recently bought a Em-10 Mark III and I'm an absolute beginner to this immense world. I currently have the 14-42 mm lens, which new lens would you advise as a good all-rounder? This model or the 40-150 lens? Thank you again and my apologies for my bad English.
That was my second prime lens and it was my biggest disappointed I sel it pretty fast, this lens is so soft wide open even my voigtlander 42.5mm f0.95 is much sharper. My first prime lens was the 25mm 1.4 amazing ! I think is the osmo pocket for this vlog ? Great quality
Voigtlander makes fantastic lenses! I probably used the Osmo Pocket in this one. I really can't remember. But it is a nice little camera. I use it a lot now.
Thank you! It was a tough decision between the 25mm and 45mm, but ultimately I felt the 45mm added the most for someone wanting to expand their photography. It's also the best value in m43 imho, typically $100 to $200 cheaper than the Olympus 17mm or 25mm. That said, the 20mm and 25mm from panasonic are great deals too. Really can't lose either way.
I use the 25 1.8 on a GH-1. It is a great lens, very fast to focus and very sharp. If the 45 is similar, as all reports say, it is a great choice. For portraits, I find the 45mm focal length gives better results. I use a 45mm f/2 Minolta adapted, that I got before the oly or pana came out. It would be nice to have AF, and since I don't have an ibis camera I would probably get the pana 42.5 for the ois. When I am close to the subject, even the 45 f/2 has barely enough depth of field to keep the whole subject in focus. On a camera where the only focus aid is magnification on a lo res screen, focusing can take some effort.
I shoot aperture priority for macro since I need to control the depth of field. Generally have to go f14 to f22, hence the flash to bring back some light!
Yes, the 20mm is a more practical focal length. I had a tough time picking between the 25 and 45, but decided to go with the 45 since it's just outside the 14-42 kit range and offers significantly shallower dof.
What a silly fuss on shrinked depth of field! It is mainlyfor those who are not able or willing to get an interesting yet not dominating background for their motifs! Especially for your often cited family photos - they require sheer a localization for later recognition and reminiscence. For street pbotography it is sheer nonsense to require shallow depth of field!
I agree that the emphasis on shallow depth of field is silly. It's important to embrace the entire composition and make things work harmoniously with the subject. That said, the 45mm does separate the subject and it's a popular, even if unjustified, technique. It's simply one creative choice among many that can be done with the 45 vs the kit lens.
most likely Olympus planned his sale long before, like Nokia, otherwise, you cannot explain the idiotic pricing policy, stupid marketing, and those who are called by Olympus a visionary. all, almost, videos coming from Olympus for some reason are presented by specific people, shabby-looking gray-haired peasants, with the look of losers. (not include Rob Wong but this is a different story) I certainly apologize, but seeing this author I want to advise the next meeting of Alcoholic Anonymous. just compare to X-photographers
Thanks for the feedback. Sorry, I can't help how I look. People have told me my entire life I look tired. It's okay. We all play the cards we are dealt in life.
![Olympus 17mm, 25mm and 45mm F1.8 - [Which One?]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/DfwnhP0szOo/mqdefault.jpg)
Olympus 45mm f1.8 Lens
USA - amzn.to/2VuuOuD
UK - amzn.to/2AthCxb
DE - amzn.to/2AAfuUK
Macro Extension Tubes
USA - amzn.to/2YvOnmW
UK - amzn.to/2E9iLvH
DE - amzn.to/2W2foBa
37mm Lens Hood
USA - amzn.to/2HjY6qX
UK - amzn.to/2JjlG9r
DE - amzn.to/2WNgqxW
Godox TT350o Flash:
USA - amzn.to/2RPJp51
UK - amzn.to/2QO0BU0
Donations to support my channel greatly appreciated!
www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=76UF47BN2ZJA6
Social:
Instagram: instagram.com/robtreklens/
Facebook: facebook.com/RobTrekLens/
My Blog: robtrek.com
Recommended Gear*:
www.amazon.com/shop/robtrek
My eBay Store*:
ebay.to/2DuHOt8
*We are a participant in the Ebay and Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Ebay.com Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
Dude, I cannot stop watching your content
As an Olympus user, I’m glad to have found you on TH-cam! Peter Forsgard recommended you in the comments on one of his videos.
Peter is great and far better photographer than I.
That lens is the best value for money on the m4/3 system.
Agreed! Thanks, Peter.
M43 lens system has the best value among brands. Love them
irrelevant. you work for Olympus)))
Very informative, thank you. Love how it can be adapted to macro too, I didn’t realise that
Glad it was helpful!
Hi Rob, thank you for taking the time to reply, an excellent tutorial on the 45mm lens. Regards,
Neil.
Thanks, Neil.
Couldn't agree more! You will not regret getting a 45mm lens! Once you are bored with the 45, go buy the 25. I will never get the 75, too rich for my blood. Great video, keep em coming!
Thanks. Yeah, I rarely take out the 75mm. The 45mm is just about perfect.
Hi Rob.............As always thanks for sharing.........
I have a Nikon 50mm 1.4 AIS. No point in having this 45mm 1.8. I really don't miss the auto focus and the Olympus in body manual focus assist with magnify and peak focussing is awesome. Any decent 50mm manual lens from the usual suspects up to f2.0 will do the same. My Asahi Pentax SMC 50mm1.8 is one of my favourites. It is up there with any lens currently made.
I like the OM 50mm f/1.8 and Nikon Series E 50mm f/1.8 pancake. A bit more compact than the 50mm 1.4. I actually tried a focal reducer on my Nikon 50mm 1.4 to get at 35mm f/1. Fun times!
@@RobTrek Hi Rob. I have been kind of put off of buying any old manual OM lenses as in most cases the front elements section can't be serviced. If you get fungus creep into the front element section there is nothing you can do about it.
I like the Nikon Series E pancake but it is no longer a reasonable price for me in the UK. To get one over here in above average condition is like $150.00.
I will keep looking for one to come up at a reasonable price.
@@racl1954 Yikes! I'm seeing them here for about 1/3 of that price.
Rob I have sent you a few $ for a coffee kinda thing. I have to live on a small amount of money here in the UK., like State pension.....When I can spare a coffee for you "you know I will"....
Really appreciate the time you give and have learned a lot about the Olympus M4/3 system.
You helped me realise after a lifetime of coming from film to digital..... that we don't need full frame or DX to produce world class images.
@@racl1954 Thank you!
I love my 45mm prime. Also have the 25mm & 14-150mm, but the 45 always is my fave.
Great video! I totally agree with your choice of lenses.
Can you make a video using the 45mm for portraits, maybe like a little tutorial, with some advice and techniques to get better and more artsy photos?
Thanks. I can do a couple of things for portrait, but the master of portrait photography is Joe Edelman. He shoots Olympus now.
@@RobTrek Two months latter and I came back to watch this once more. I love your videos man!!!
I own and use the 45mm f/1.8 Olympus. However, it was the third lens I purchased for my micro 4/3 because based on my shooting style, I know that I rely more on normal and wide lenses than telephoto lenses. The 20mm f/1.7 Panasonic normal lens was the first lens I purchased and the 14mm f/2.5 Panasonic wide-angle lens was the second.
The forth lens I purchased was the 14-45mm f/3.5 - f/5.6 zoom which I used as a backup to my three prime lenses.
The fifth lens I purchased was a Panasonic 45-200mm f/4 - f/5.6 to use when I needed something longer than 45mm in focal length.
The last lens I purchased was a refurbished 17mm f/2.8 because it only cost me $75 and I could use it as a backup lens.
Great setup!
Thanks for the info Rob. Very helpful and gives me additional ideas on how to use it more in the field. Much appreciated!
Thanks. It's a staple lens that should be on everyone's short list.
Very useful thank you Rob! It helps me understand the purposes of 17mm vs 35/45mm more. Also I was not aware of macro tubes, that's amazing. I will pick one up from the Canadian amazon if they have them, hopefully.
Great! You'll love them.
Good info. Always enjoy your videos. Just got my 17mm & 14-150mm travel kit but the 45mm is on my list and I'm using my 40-150mm with extension tubes. My favorite lens with my old Pentax was 35mm and 100mm. I like shooting with my Olympus 17mm and use my 40-150mm at 40mm, so it makes sense to get the 45mm prime lens.
Thanks. You have a great setup. I think the 45 will be a nice addition. I loved shooting with my vintage Nkon 105mm AI. I may have to do a video on it showing the joy of shooting telephoto.
Although I don't use it too much (because of its focal lenght), it's my favorite - its quallity is very good and bokeh fantastic.
Totally agree!
So very interesting thing about this video... I got started with M43 just over a year ago. I'm currently deployed and wanted something WAY lighter to carry around than the Canon 70D I had back at home. Like you suggested in this video, I got the kit lens, then the 40-150mm zoom, and then first prime? Yup, the 45mm. To this day it's still my favorite lens. About the only thing I did differently is I went with an older OM-D E-M1 over a new entry-level one :) Your video is absolutely spot on. I've now replaced the kit lens with the 12-40mm Pro, and it's a nice general purpose one, but it doesn't do the same thing as the 45mm. The huge difference is the bokeh. I bought an OM system Macro to try a vintage lens, but your video got me curious -- I'm going to try shooting some stuff with the 45mm and extension tubes. :) Guess the question - since you pretty much hit me perfectly, what's the next prime? Got a good idea, but curious your take...
Well, it's a tough call from here. Let me think this through. For me it was the 12mm f/2. But that's because I do vlogging. The 75mm is a bit too special purpose but that was my next lens as I do portraits time to time. The 300mm is too pricey for what I do as well. So that narrows it down to the 17mm, 20mm, and 25mm. Since the 12-40pro already covers all of these, it comes down to size and weight. I'd say the Panasonic 20mm f/1.7 is is your future. Fast, sharp, and pancake size. General purpose focal length, not too wide, not too close to the 45mm. If you want to stick with Olympus, then the 17mm. Probably not as sharp as the 20mm wide open, but a very useful focal length for street shooting and travel. Being a tad wider, manual focus ring, and compact, might be the better choice and a perfect match to the 45mm. Keep one on the camera, one in the pocket.
@@RobTrek Hmmm, OK :) I was thinking the 25mm because of the "nifty fifty" thing which to be honest besides supposedly the perspective of the eye, I wasn't sure what that would get me. I think I like your suggestion better... I like the versatility of the 12-40mm Pro, but I'm more about weight, and that's about as heavy as I'd want to go. I have no interest in the 40-150mm Pro for that reason. One of the reasons I love my 45mm Prime is the f/1.8. So even though I'm covered, I still see myself getting primes in the future... Thanks!
Please keep these vids coming Rob, I find them very useful. Btw I took your recommendation for the Godox flash and am very happy so far.
Thanks. So glad to hear you're happy with the Godox.
Good video. I wouldn't have thought of using the extension tubes for macro. Good tip.
Thanks, Mark. I carry my tubes with me always.
Lovely video here. Lots complaint about not shallow enough the depth of field of this len, but you show me the way how me make use of it here. Tiny little len just Nice out, tq!!🤏👍
Glad you enjoyed it.
Excellent video, as always, Rob. If I didn't already own the original 4/3 Zuiko 50mm f/2.0 Macro (with mft adapter), I would run out and buy this 45mm f/1.8, immediately.
Thank you! no need for the 45 in your case!
I have both the 45 and the 75 and they are without a doubt the sharpest lenses I have ever used.
The 75 is about the nicest lens I've ever owned! Thanks for sharing.
I bought both the 45mm and 25mm when they were on sale and they are both great lens
Agreed! Thanks for sharing.
My route with Pen-f was first the 25mm then the 45mm. I agree with most of your observations. One other reason to buy the f1.8 primes is size/weight. Challenge: put the 45mm f1.8 in one pants pocket and the bigger zoom or the f1.2 version in another pocket. The small prime travels better, imo. 🤔
I wanted to mention the small size/weight, as I think it's one of the lightest of all lenses from Olympus. Honestly, I forgot. But is is an important factor for many. Thanks for sharing.
I'm using Sigma 30 mm 1.4 DC DN and it's amazing lens with beautiful, creamy bokeh. It's also super sharp from f/1,4.
Thanks for sharing. Not a lens I've tried, but hear good things about it.
It's also on sale right now for $289. It seems too good to pass up. I'd appreciate knowing more if you have the time. Is it suitable for travel? How well does the autofocus work? I'm looking for a fast prime at about that focal length to take to China later this year.
Great video as always Rob . How about a quick video on extension tubes was wondering which make your using
Thanks. Will do! I have an older video on tubes here: th-cam.com/video/Xhxche-R1aY/w-d-xo.html
I agree too.Super lens, I now have it permanently on a Pen PL9 which I use for urban/street photography, gives great results.
I love it for street too!
the value of this lens is amazing...
Agreed!
Have this prime - love the focal length (similar to my old canon 85 1.8). Nice info on the extension tubes, I’ve been looking for a cheap fake macro lens so this is perfect for me.
A bit tricky to focus, but results are great. Especially give the cost of entry.
Vintage Intro. Love it
Thank you!
Absolutely agree, I can't say enough good things about this lens. Brilliant video and well thought out presentation of your proposition, very convincing. I've been having fun and putting on instagram with some russian lenses using an L39 adaptor, great fun!
Thanks! Haven't done anything with Russian Lenses, but do have a nice collection of vintage Nikon and Minolta glass. Will do a video about those one day.
Couldnt agree more. for portraits this 45 1.8 is a no brainer, but really it is also an allround great performer.
Thanks. It is my favorite prime!
Good video, good explanation. It was my first prime and I love it for all the reasons you gave although I never tried the macro extension rings.
Thanks. The macro rings work better on the 40-150 kit lens, but they are fine with the 45. Just hard to lock in focus.
Hi Rob
Just a note.I bought a lens hood for my 45mm f1.8 but after recieving it,i was stunt to try and fit the hood and i just could not see how it will fit on the lens.I try reading reviews and looking at youtube vlogs but just could not get anything to advise me on the lens hood.I then wrote to olympus and ask for advise and was really stunt and very surprice to learn about removing the " decorative ring " on front of the lens.I could then manage to attach the lenshood after removing the ring.I do not see many people nentioning this in vlogs and even reviews.Just a interesting note.
Thanks. Yes, the decorative ring can be easy to miss. I'll have to mention that on lenses that I review. As I use hoods that usually screw into the filter threads, I often forget to mention that other hoods require removal of the decorative ring.
I'm here because I'm thinking to buy this little lens. I always enjoy your exposed subjects and the brilliant demos you apport on your channel. Very matter of fact, yes. I might have. a little personal observation; a pet peeve: Why is most of the main subject dedicated, not only on your videos or someone else's, by the way, the matter of depth of field, as if it was the main reason to buy a lens? It seems to me that this is the most important reason to value a lens when we can always concentrate on composition, angle of view, and perspective? Everybody is concentrating on bokeh.... I sometimes see images where the nose is in focus and the ears are out of focus. Lens apertures are more significant than just shallow depth of field.
This is not a critic, Sir. Just a personal point of view.
Keep on sharing.
Thanks for the feedback. For this particular lens, being used for portraits, the bokeh is a consideration. It's a common question for all lenses, so I always address it. I agree with you though, it's only one of many things to consider and it really shouldn't be a priority with most lenses.
@@RobTrek Thanks for your kind feedback, Rob. You not only have the looks of a Gentleman, but you also act like one.
Keep on sharing.
Have a great Season!
Great review...! A short tele lens is a perfect choice for portraits, faces in particular. Just like your pictures show.
Good of you to point out, that the distance to subject and features is very neutral...just right amount of exclusion around it.
(A portrait with a wider lens shows more surroundings, a person and space...personal space.)
Thanks. DIstance to subject is an important consideration. There are so many things about a lens but I tried to narrow it down to the key things.
@Rob Trek For sure, best first prime...! We learn to zoom with our feet.
Material for another series of yours down the line...?
Comparing old and new glass...?
You have many reviews of different lenses.Like you, I also use old primes...enjoy the f stops and distance scales.
I really enjoy your videos. Keep it up! I own a 2nd hand em10 great camera. I want the 45mm now!
Thanks!
Hi Rob,
I have a technical question. We already know that the focal length and aperture of MFT lenses must be multiplied by 2. So does that mean that a 45mm f1.8 MFT lens is like a 90mm f3.6 in Full Frame?
So we can't achieve a true aperture of 1.8 with MFT lenses?
Tnanks,
Medi
For exposure, you don't multiply the aperture. For depth of field, you multiply by 2.
Hi Rob, Thanks for another great video. I have the 14-42 kit lens and the 40 -150 , and am considering the 45 f1/8.
Can you recommend the best lens for product photography? (to be used for online ecommerce )
I have the OMD EMD10 II
Best regards
Braden
Thanks. Either the Olympus 30mm or 60mm macro lens depending on subject size. Macro lenses are designed to be up close with zero distortion so ideal for product work. That said, for basic things like ebay photos I'd stick with the 14-42 kit lens.
The 45mm is a good lens and gives lovely colourful results, but I'd suggest the Panasonic 20mm F1.7 first as it can be used for street photography, landscape and to a degree close-up work so is more practical.
The Panasonic 20mm f1.7 is definitively on my list, but at least in my case I rarely do street photography in low light (might be that I don't feel very comfortable taking my camera out at night in my city) so I can get very good results with the 14-42 kit lens.
@@Jormungandr69 If you know what you are doing, it's possible to get good results with most kit these days so if you're happy with the kit you have don't rush to buy more. What I like about the P20mm is the simplicity of it. It's compact and easy to pre-focus or use in AF mode. If you do go for one, try to get the original as is considered the better image quality version.
www.flickr.com/photos/127459554@N06/44888183572/in/dateposted-public/ < That isn't meant to be a shameless plug for my photography! It's just an example of using the Pen F with the P20mm at night handheld, and why I like it even though I have the big three Oly Pro zoom lenses.
@@Rick--A-F thanks! It looks great. I'll defintely consider this lens over the 25mm in the future.
@Richard Thanks for sharing your thoughts and awesome flickr pics! I hear only good things about the 20mm and I love pancake lenses. It's on my short list of things to get that I don't need LOL! As I said in the video, it was a tough call between the 45 and 25 for me to make a recommendation. The 25 is a more practical choice, but it's practically covered with the kit lens. Ultimately I felt the 45 would make the biggest difference, but it all depends I suppose.
I really enjoyed this video. I know it’s a little older but new for me as I just bought my first M43 -OM1. What are your feelings on the 17mm f/1.2 or hold onto your hard earned money for something else?
I don't have the 17mm 1.2, but I've only heard good things about it. I prefer smaller lenses like the 17mm 1.8. If you shoot for money, then the pro series of lenses make more sense.
So with the Prime lens I wont be able to focus on a subject that is 2 m away and then another that is 5 meters away with the ring on the lens?
Is there any setting on the camera to set the focus on any subject in the frame?
Sorry about this because I got confused,
Thanks
When you have the extension tube on, you can't focus much beyond 2m. Extension tubes change the optics of the lens so it can no longer focus beyond a certain distance.
@Rob Trek and without the extension tube, can the 45mm be focused on 10m or 4 m objects?
I m considering an all rounder lens for Olympus EP7 csmera
Thanks agaib
@@MegaAluchi Yes, it will focus to infinity no problem.
Hi Rob! Thanks for another great video! I completely agree with you, that 45mm f1.8 is something special indeed, specially with that price tag, it's unbeatable! My first prime was the 17mm f1.8 (which I love) and I purchased the 45mm just a couple of months ago but if i had to start now, I would choose the 45mm because it gives much more. I was curious about those expansion tubes on the 45mm, but I own the 60mm macro lens (it is amazingly sharp). The 45mm is also very sharp, so, in your opinion, does it beat the dedicated macro lens? Thank you.
Thanks. I really can't say since I don't own the 60mm. But dedicated macro lenses are usually the sharpest lenses with the least distortion at close distances.
thnx lot for vedio.i have olympus pen e-p7 with lens 45mm f1.8 and this is good for potrtai.plz give advice for best lens for vlogin and vedio.tbnx again
I think the Panasonic 9mm f/1.7 would make a great lens for vlogging.
@@RobTrek thnx lot
Love my 14-150. Will upgrade to 12-100mm pro later on
Never heard one bad thing about the 12-100mm. Sounds like a good plan.
This lens just showed up today. It is my first experience with M4/3. I can't believe how small this is.
It's a great lens! Enjoy.
If I ever get an olympus I'll be sure to grab me one of those and do some macro shots
They make the tubes for all ILC's, no need to add Olympus for this. DId you get a macro lens for your phone yet?
Excellent video 😮!
Thank you very much!
What about adapted lenses ? One of the reasons i bought my OMD EM10 iii was to use my old OM mount lenses. I have the 50mm f1.8 prime and a Vivitar 70-210 zoom as well as a 28mm wide.. How about a primer on focus peaking love your videos, thanks !
Hi. This is an older video, but should still apply. th-cam.com/video/aMShIo-fHcs/w-d-xo.html
Years ago, I took photos with 45mm f/1.8 and 25mm 1.4 most of the time , but when I compared their color, I noticed that the color of 45mm was "too warm" and "not attractive". I'm wondering whether the lens got problem or it is normal for 45mm f/1.8.
I haven't noticed that it's any warmer than my other lenses. Maybe the 25mm 1.4 is cooler?
@@RobTrek among the lens i used, i find Panasonic lens have cooler colour temperature in general
I have it and I love it for portraits. Its crazy sharp. Its tiny.
Yes, it is smaller than most or all of their primes. Love this lens too!
The Sigma 60mm 2.8 is another great killer portrait lens and is available around 200 dollars.
Yes, it certainly is. I don't own that one and I wanted to stay within the Olympus brand. I considered that lens over the more expensive 75mm last year.
Hi Rob. First of all many thanx for your inspirative videos ! I have a small question for you. I own a old Olympus E520 (4/3 socket) and a friend gave me a 45mm f1. 8 (so mft) as a present. Is there any way to connect them ? I searched the internet but I only found adapters for 4/3 lens to mft cameras, not the opposite.... Or do I have to plan a camera change ? Thanx in advance !
Thanks. Sorry, no way to adapt m4/3 to 4/3rds that I know of. The problem is the flange distance for m4/3 is much smaller than 4/3rds. So an adapter would push the lens into the mirror.
Oh... Ok, then in the near future I will change my camera ! I was thinking about an E-M10 mark iii, powerful but not too expensive. Do you recommend it ? I read its viewfinder is not well suitable for people wearing glasses (like me)... Is it really a big or a minor issue ? Thanks in advance
@@maurovendri4987 I'm not sure about the viewfinder as I don't wear glasses (yet). However, I'd recommend the e-m5ii over the em10 series. You should be able to find one between $300 and $400 in near mint used or new if you shop around.
Onestly I chose the e-m10 iii because I found a good offer (body + 14-42 + 40-150) at a good price, about 610€ (that's 740$, but I live in Italy). In this way I would have got a new camera, two zoom lenses plus the 45mm that I already own....
Anyway I will think about a e-m5 ii.... Thank you for the suggestion !
@@maurovendri4987 The E-10iii will certainly give just as good images as any of the current Olympus cameras. The only deal breaker for me was the lack of custom settings or mysets. But it has arguably better AF, 4k video, and a deeper buffer for continuous shooting.
Nice video as always Rob but when using the extension tubes, do you have to focus manually?
Thanks. No, you just have to get it close to focus in the viewfinder by moving back and forth, then tap the shutter button to finish the job.
Rob- are you planning to test Sigma 56 mm f1.4 lens? I'm still thinking which one I should buy as next: Oly 45 mm or this Sigma 56 mm. I already own Oly 12-40 and now looking for some portrait lens with at least f1.8.
No plans for the 56mm. Seems like a nice lens and viable alternative to the 45mm. Lighting is more important for portrait work. LIke the kit lens shot in this video was not bad at all and I could give that to a client.
Have a good day, can I ask a question, I'd appreciate it if you 'd answer 🙏 What are the differences of the olympus 25 mm 1.8 lens from 45 mm 1.8 ?
They are both very good lenses. I think the 25mm is a bit sharper at the wider (lower number) apertures. For physical differences, the 45mm is a little smaller. Look here for exact specs: www.four-thirds.org/en/microft/single.html
45mm is a must have lens!
Agreed!
Hello and thanks for your vids! They're really helpful, I've recently bought a Em-10 Mark III and I'm an absolute beginner to this immense world. I currently have the 14-42 mm lens, which new lens would you advise as a good all-rounder? This model or the 40-150 lens? Thank you again and my apologies for my bad English.
Thanks. Get 40-150mm f/4-5.6 R first!
You explain things in a way for people who are tech challenged to understand.
Thanks, Tina.
That was my second prime lens and it was my biggest disappointed I sel it pretty fast, this lens is so soft wide open even my voigtlander 42.5mm f0.95 is much sharper. My first prime lens was the 25mm 1.4 amazing !
I think is the osmo pocket for this vlog ? Great quality
Voigtlander makes fantastic lenses! I probably used the Osmo Pocket in this one. I really can't remember. But it is a nice little camera. I use it a lot now.
The Voigtlander is 6 times the price, so
Was a very nice portrait lens indeed. Sold it after buying Nocticron (the best lens ever)
Couldn't agree more! Leica makes some fine lenses.
What's the difference between V311030BU000 and V311030SU000 model numbers?
One is silver, one is black in color.
Hi. I can make food pictures with this lens ?
You can. You have to stand back about 1 meter to capture a full plate.
Thank you !
Does this work with the Panasonic lumix g85?
Yes, but I recommend the Panasonic 42.5mm f/1.8 for Panasonic. It retains the DFD autofocus feature, the Olympus does not.
@@RobTrek Oh man, I didn't see this. I already ordered it.😅
Thank you, I've gone with this advice.
You won't regret it! It's a great lens.
I like to get it in focus then switch to manual...on the lens or camera.
I do this for closeup work.
Excellent comparison of dof, however I must disagree. Most beginners have the urge to shoot general photography and not portraits.
Thank you! It was a tough decision between the 25mm and 45mm, but ultimately I felt the 45mm added the most for someone wanting to expand their photography. It's also the best value in m43 imho, typically $100 to $200 cheaper than the Olympus 17mm or 25mm. That said, the 20mm and 25mm from panasonic are great deals too. Really can't lose either way.
Just bought one $200AUD with hood and pouch. Bargain. Thanks Rob
That was a great deal!
I use the 25 1.8 on a GH-1. It is a great lens, very fast to focus and very sharp. If the 45 is similar, as all reports say, it is a great choice.
For portraits, I find the 45mm focal length gives better results. I use a 45mm f/2 Minolta adapted, that I got before the oly or pana came out. It would be nice to have AF, and since I don't have an ibis camera I would probably get the pana 42.5 for the ois.
When I am close to the subject, even the 45 f/2 has barely enough depth of field to keep the whole subject in focus. On a camera where the only focus aid is magnification on a lo res screen, focusing can take some effort.
Thanks for sharing your experience. Lots of good info. Manual focus definitely requires some practice and effort.
Subed. He knows what he is talking.
Thank you.
I got the 25 and then the 60 macro...
You can probably skip the 45mm for a while. Maybe consider the 12mm?
Is the camera in aperture priority when added the extension tubes?
I shoot aperture priority for macro since I need to control the depth of field. Generally have to go f14 to f22, hence the flash to bring back some light!
I have this Oly 45mm. It is a very good portrait lens. But I use my Lumix 20mm f1.7 more often.
Yes, the 20mm is a more practical focal length. I had a tough time picking between the 25 and 45, but decided to go with the 45 since it's just outside the 14-42 kit range and offers significantly shallower dof.
if it "best why it no sales? why on the second-hand market it's impossible to get even $100, I saw ads even $70?
Autor so lame(((
I don't think price is a valid way to judge a product. There are many great things that don't cost a lot of money. What lens do you recommend?
@@RobTrek i like old 4/3 40-150. 70-300 and 9-18/ also PZ12-42 very sharp. I have but do not like 17/2.8. on my canon 5d daily lens is 20/18
What a silly fuss on shrinked depth of field! It is mainlyfor those who are not able or willing to get an interesting yet not dominating background for their motifs!
Especially for your often cited family photos - they require sheer a localization for later recognition and reminiscence.
For street pbotography it is sheer nonsense to require shallow depth of field!
I agree that the emphasis on shallow depth of field is silly. It's important to embrace the entire composition and make things work harmoniously with the subject. That said, the 45mm does separate the subject and it's a popular, even if unjustified, technique. It's simply one creative choice among many that can be done with the 45 vs the kit lens.
most likely Olympus planned his sale long before, like Nokia, otherwise, you cannot explain the idiotic pricing policy, stupid marketing, and those who are called by Olympus a visionary. all, almost, videos coming from Olympus for some reason are presented by specific people, shabby-looking gray-haired peasants, with the look of losers. (not include Rob Wong but this is a different story) I certainly apologize, but seeing this author I want to advise the next meeting of Alcoholic Anonymous. just compare to X-photographers
Thanks for the feedback. Sorry, I can't help how I look. People have told me my entire life I look tired. It's okay. We all play the cards we are dealt in life.
@@RobTrek It’s not personally, it just seems to me that Olympus intentionally choose specific people
@@ShlomoLevi Thank you. I understand.