Olympus OM-D E-M1X a 6 Month Real World Review
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 9 มิ.ย. 2024
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It's here, the OM-D E-M1X flagship camera from Olympus!
I've had the pleasure of using the new E-M1X since the end of September 2018. I've shot photos and video. Shot a part of the campaign, shot surfing, dune buggies, portraits, rugby, landscapes in the arctic. Shot in rain and hail and even in sand storms with it. From -20ºC to +35ºC, the E-M1X and I have been there. And this is my in-depth real-world review of the new OM-D.
► Video Time Codes:
00:00 - Intro
01:13 - Disclaimer
03:35 - Ergonomics
09:05 - Camera Menu
11:22 - Target Audience
14:04 - Shooting Campaigns
18:00 - Travel with the Camera
19:00 - Image Quality
21:04 - Hi-Res Mode
25:04 - Long Exposures
26:17 - Video Stabilisation
27:57 - Video Auto Focus
30:20 - Video Features
31:51 - LOG
34:01 - Weather Sealing
34:50 - USB-C Power
36:50 - Live ND
37:54 - Deep Learning
40:20 - Being Different
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► Disclaimer:
I was not paid for this video. Olympus did not have any say in its contents, they did however check it for factual correctness. - วิทยาศาสตร์และเทคโนโลยี
You did great! Really excited to see the camera pushed to extremes! Glad to see Olympus R&D listens and is moving forward!
What a great review of this camera. The photos and videos are beautiful and your enthusiasme is also great
I just bought the EM1X yesterday and my interest started with this video of your when I first watched it a couple of months ago. Switched from A7R2 and so happy already.
Welcome to the family 😉
Grateful you could update us on your experience
How does iq compare against a7r2
Colourberry What a change! could you explain that step from sony a7rII to Olympus em1x? It would be interesting. thanks !
I have two EM1 Mkii's and one Sony A7R2, they each have their place, the Olympus' are so fast, they feel agile and accurate, they hit focus every time and I get fabulous shots up to 3200ISO, the Sony has the advantage with high ISO, 51000 works well and the dynamic range at 100ISO is truly stunning, but it just cannot hit focus if things are moving. At the end of the day I take the camera that suits the shoot, and I am happy with all three :-)
Chris this is the most practical review of the m1x I have seen. I plan on purchasing one this coming weekend. While a new version may be due soon, I feel the current model has everything I could ever want in a camera. Durable, full of features, size and weight, what more could anyone ask for. Nit picking the tiny details like some full framers do is silly. Thanks for such a fantastic review!
Chris,
Excellent work. One of the best video reviews I've seen for ANY camera. You guys look like you had a lot of fun shooting with it. Keep up the good work!
Amazing review, Chris! And your enthusiasm is inspiring. The beautiful imagens enchant the eyes... Thank you for this! 😊
Best real world review of the camera with easy to follow descriptions and demonstrations of the camera's new capabilities. Great job!
Thanks!
INCREDIBLE job Chris! So informative and honest.
Chris - wow - what an excellent, informative review. I loved the stills and video footage which really illustrated the points you are making. I hadn't really thought about this camera but I have to say your review has swayed me - keen to try it out now!
Sorry for potentially emptying your pockets. You won’t regret it. Promised.
Had been patiently waiting for your review to show up. Thanks Chris, looking forward to picking up this little beauty.
Very good and indepth review. I like the fact that you speak about the actual experience of living with this camera everyday. That is what I think matters more than dishing out numbers like many other reviewers do - including the esteemed dpreview.
I took my E-M1 Mark 2 on a trip to Tibet last year. I had the entire Olympus system with me in one backpack. It was a joy to be able to carry gear not knowing what I might need in one 10 pound bag. This E-M1X takes the legacy further.
Chris, this is just one of the best reviews I have ever seen! Keep on doing this!
Thanks Peter.
Not wanting to turn this channel into a ‘gear talk’ and review one... but this camera deserved my fullest attention and a lengthy video.
Expect more real world photography here in the future though.
As a long year Olympus shooter (EM1 and EM1.2) I was very interested while also being sceptical about this EM1X. What I have heard and seen so far is now mind blowing for me! I want to stay in that Olympus ecosystem and I think the direction Olympus is going is the right one, so we also can expect much more great things in the future!@@chriseyrewalker
Epic video, I don’t even use Olympus but this camera is so amazing I want to get one!!! Maybe in the future! Glad you’ve got an awesome new tool Chris! Can’t wait to see more epic videos with it!
I was already convinced in Norway, but now I know for sure that Olympus will be my next system. Great Review Chris! Looks like you had some amazing adventures!
You’d love this camera bro.
Chris I love your videos they meet what is required in an film, along with your photographs great to look at. All I hope is that the formate continues for us both, me a total amateur. I suppose it all comes down to the professional image delivering all that is required in every aspect for us both to continue with our formate. Only you and your profession know its merits to deliver.
A real review by a real photographer. I love it. Thank you!
Congrats mate this is an awesome video ! You have done an amazing job previewing this !!!
A fellow tech-head! Love it. I will definitely be getting this camera...hard to believe I will be trading up so soon but I am tough on my gear and need an even more reliable consistent extreme camera. Love your point about high res image feature which I’ve never used and was even debating getting the D850 as my 3rd landscape cam for large landscapes. Thank you for keeping me in my Oly environment with all PRO lenses. Glad I invested so heavily in them. Olympus has NEVER failed me and I am as equally pleased with their customer service. Thank you, I’m a new subscriber
It's up to you, I bought this camera. Thank you for this fantastic review.
I had been an Olympus lover and when this camera was announced I was a little disappointed they took this approach -- but the more video I have watched I start to appreciate it more and more. It is definitely built for professionals and I can imagine that for professionals the functions/shape/designs are going to be so useful when they are working. Big battery life, vertical grip and gps, great balance with longer pro lens (as opposed to what I thought). It is by no means a consumer camera, and I really am looking forward to the successor of EM1ii, but EM1X now makes a lot more sense to me, especially watching all the Olympus visionaries' videos. I really love Olympus. Thank you Chris for the video! I really hope your video will help some people, professional or to-be to consider this camera, it is a joy watching this video and makes me a proud Olympus user :P
DUDE! YES!! Cant wait! Been ticking off the days on the calendar until I can get my hands on it!
Oh yes. This is going to be one big exciting day for Olympus 👌🏼
best shot from the M1X yet! Thanks a lot!
I should probably expand my thoughts. I use three camera systems - full frame Nikon, Fuji X, and m4/3 Olympus/Panasonic. While nowhere close to the pro level that Chris Eyre-Walker shoots, I've done a fair amount of high level college sports, including several national championships, over 8 years. I don't want to sound dismissive, but for any major camera review (be it full frame, crop, whatever), I always am dubious of shooting sports such as motor cross for review photographers to "test" the camera's sports potential. I'm not saying it's easy, but the subject is moving in a mostly linear fashion, along a relatively predictable track, and outdoors with lots of ambient light. You want to push the camera? Shoot high level volleyball or basketball in a poorly lit gym that does not have or will not give you external strobe capacity, and be sure to catch all the key players moving in all sorts of unpredictable directions within 30 minutes. THAT would be better test of autofocusing/tracking/low light performance. I have tried all three systems in such conditions and yes, full frame dSLR still wins out: best low light performance, best subject isolation because of bokeh, best AF, etc. But you know what? The m4/3 photos, while a bit soft and with less background blur, would probably be fine for editorial uses. And if the venue provides just a bit more light and if you can shoot in RAW and do just a bit of recovery after, the images would probably be even better. Thrown on a good long prime and you might be 95% there. Plus, after standing around for 3 hours with track delays, etc. a big full frame camera and lens gets really, really, heavy. So, you have to ask yourself, are you going to get the best photos after dragging around big gear after a half day of continuous shooting? And let's not forget expense. People are bemoaning how expensive this is... but at $3900 Cdn or $3000 US, you'd have to pay a whole lot more to get a similarly spec'd out Nikon. The Nikon D5 is a whopping $8000 Cdn! And the Nikkor 70-200 is over $3000 Cdn! By the way, the bigger the gear, the more likely it's going to stick out and get hit by a 250 lb football player charging the sidelines (I was lucky; the lens hood took the brunt; but it still cost $500 to fix). All the critics are tossing out well intended but incomplete comparisons... Sony is cheaper, not enough bokeh, blah blah blah... I'm betting most of these armchair naysayers haven't actually shot an event or multiple events that leaves your hand completely cramped. As Chris pointed out, it's how the entire system performs as a holistic unit, not about nit picking some technical advantage on paper. And if you don't know what to do, you can still produce crap with a full frame camera...
First of all,,the FACT is,many people shoot with DSLRs and huge gear,because they are evidently not bothered by it.I mean,if you take the example of backpacking,hiking,and hunting,people just wear,it,use it,and happen to be in good enough shape to handle weight/size.NO ONE can say without FACTS,that using a DSLR all day is going to have any negative effects on your hands nor anything else.Without FACTS,the next person can also say that a smaller camera can cramp your hands too.Since it depends on the person,and situations,unless we are there,in person,an opinion about that is also 'armchair'.The Canon M50 is the TOP mirrorless,and it's not what the EOS R is.The top brands,on all counts,are Sony and Canon,in the USA/Japan,hands down,and the PEOPLE have decided,for the past 5 years at least,what shooters REALLY buy,use,and rent.
Now,it is possible to make horrible images with Leica,Nikon,or even a Rebel,or make great images,so that's a moot point.It has always been the person using the tools,not the tools themselves because cameras do not take pictures,people do.Now the EM1X seems to be a great camera,yet the MAIN issue is if the upgrades from it's previous version are worth $1500.This camera is ONLY matched by it;s previous version,because that is what will determine if enough people BUY and use it.not comparisons with other brands.The only thing that matters if if it will SELL and zoom off the shelves,not anyone's comparisons with other brands or other opinions.Would I get it?Sure,if it was $1500 or less...Like Chris said,it all depends on your needs,because most folks out here will be satisfied with MOST of these cameras over $1500.Oh and by the way,we can get the Fuji XT3 and glass,with firmware upgrades regularly,for less than $3000,with battery grip..
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and the grip is $400 if you round it upwards..
@Geoff Longford ..
I dont need to,want to,and it makes no difference to me.I spun vinyl records for decades,so i carried crates of them,and still have them,even though we use digital now,outside the house.I have analog amps,with cables,and I use wireless speakers and tech when i am out,for the most part.I use multiple brands and formats of computers,and before last year,carrying my laptop was a pain,not because of the computer,but the power supply seemed to weigh more than the laptop itself,yet I just worked it out.
So being a MAN,me and tons of people developed this thing called STRENGTH,so carrying 1 or even two cameras and other gear around means nothing to me.Is it lighter?I have had Olympus,had Sony APS-c,I have a fim camera i use,ad I have a nice,big ole DSLR..
Now to directly answer your question technically,yes,4/3 is lighter than my DSLR,usually.Now is the Olympus EM1X lighter than my DSLR?If it is,it's not by much,when i can get Fuji XT3 with battery grip and glass.My main concern is if the EM1X is worth $3000,since it is an upgrade of a camera which already exists,for less than $1600.
I might even go find this film for this Ansco 600 we just found sitting around in the house yesterday.Size and weight are not factors to great images,it's the person using the gear.What matters to me,is if my shoes and clothes are light and efficient,because over time,that's the actual weight which makes the difference in the field.That's exactly why we stopped using the old canvas,leather,wool,metal framed packs,etc,etc..
TOTALLY agree with this:/
I always am dubious of shooting sports such as motor cross for review photographers to "test" the camera's sports potential. I'm not saying it's easy, but the subject is moving in a mostly linear fashion, along a relatively predictable track, and outdoors with lots of ambient light
The thing is the whole micro 4/3 market was predicated on being small, light, and cheap. But there are APS-C and FF cameras that are better in all three aspects. There are advantages to a smaller sensor such as a smaller mass to move for a camera that has IBIS, but that's not enough to make much of a difference. Once people realize they can have a FF camera for about the same price as a micro 4/3 many of them will choose to upgrade to FF. On top of this the overall interchangeable camera market is shrinking and something has to give. I'm guessing Olympus and micro 4/3 won't be around for too many more years. Perhaps the image quality difference between a micro 4/3 and a FF but if I consider I'd get better image quality, better low light performance, and lose nothing for about the same price (or less in the case of this new camera) I would choose to step up to FF.
@@johndonaldson5126 /
i on the other hand would select m43
1) great unbelievable Image Stablization. I no longer carry a tripod.
2) more depth of field at 600mm is great. I truly appreciate that.
3) 600mm with the weight of 300mm, YES
4)shooting video without too much concern about shaky videos
5)unbelievable quick AF lock and tracking.
6)the ONLY flip screen PRO camera with weather sealing.
Awesome stuff once again Chris! It almost seems Olympus made it this job of reviewing this camera too easy for you! ;-) I appreciate the work you've put into this review. Your enthusiasm for this camera really comes across very good and I hope that your video helps Olympus sell more of these beasts!
Thanks Jan. The hardest thing here, was to not keep on talking for another 30minutes. Sooo many new and exciting features!
Thank you for sharing Chris! As an ex Olympus owner, I have no intention to go back to the brand nor purchase the E-M1X, but I have to say the content you present in your video and channel is simply astonishing, which just makes me want to go out and shoot.
Great Video and you Transport the feeling you have with this Camera. Top
I've never been this early to a camera announcement. So stoked for this!
Stoked to have you here :-)
Great work Chris! I think the content you create is epic. You're the biggest reason I stayed with olympus system. I Olympus had more cool visionaries in the USA.
In 2024 I’m watching this deciding on om1 or em1x. I love this camera and I add battery grips to everything. It’s an upgrade over my first generation em1.
Honestly, the EM1X is, to this day, the ergonomically best camera I’ve ever used. It’s just perfect.
However, the OM1 produces a better image and outperforms the EM1X in every aspect. Not by as much as it might seem sometimes though.
And a camera I prefer holding and ultimately USING, is still a better camera than one I don’t.
I’ve shot the most and some of the best work with the EM1X. Still love picking it up to this day. Always will.
WOW is all I can say...... Chris you made my decision easy, preorder here we come!!!
Glad I could help
Thanks for a very well presented video and great insight to this marvellous camera!
Amazing, fantastic review! It is something I am looking to get my hands on, will possible rent it as I am not a fully time photographer and don't necessary need it at this moment in time. I have been a long Olympus fan from my first camera being the ep3 and now the Em1ii.
Looking to see great things happening in the future, and thank you for all your work and videos you have shared.
I moved from Panasonic GH5 to the E-M1X. The Camera is amazing and I really love it. Love the IBIS and the AF. I mainly shoot video and wish there will be 4k 60fps and higher bit rates and some more cool video features in future updates. I hope Olympus will improve this.
Great review Chris! Obviously as a Visionary, you already have a passion for what Olympus brings. But yours is very much a "real world" review showing what the camera is capable of doing. I particularly love the example shots (still and video) you showed from your time in Africa. Some of that work was really stunning and shows what you can do with this equipment. I envy your talent!
Thanks Edward. Means a lot to hear that! On hindsight I think I could have shown more video and photos while I talk... maybe next time :-)
Thanks a lot, for this large panel... Luc, from Brussels
Thanks for a very good overview of this camera.
I know I'm a little late to the party here but thanks for a great video and your thoughts on the E-M1X. I've just bought my first Olympus (E-M10 III for my work travel camera) and as I dig into the Olympus system I'm really impressed with what I've seen and read. Love this little "entry level" camera I have and can see more Olympus gear in my bag soon.
Thanks again Chris for a very well put together and in depth video.
Welcome to the family!
And thanks for the kind comment. Much appreciated.
I've used other manufacturer cameras. But in my honest opinion Olympus cameras have something magical about them. I am so glad I discovered the m4/3 system. Because it's inspired me to shoot more, because it's a fun system to use, which in turn has made me a better photographer. Even the limitations of the small sensor have made me think of ways to work around them, which has improved my technique and the ability to produce high quality images.
I'm convinced ! ... Most excellent video 👍
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great review! Have been out on travel for the last month so still haven't got this camera in my hands myself. As an Olympus ambassadour it is indeed very exciting to be on the team when Olympus does so much exciting. Unless you regularily print billboard size pictures you don't really need more than 20MP and with all the other exciting features packed into both these top model Olympus cameras the choice for me is really easy. As a professional wildlife photographer I especially value the image stabilisation (people who hasn't tried just don't understand how good it is - it is something completely different from any other camera brand out there), the amazing Pro-capture mode, the weather resistence and the complete silent mode that more than one time have helped me take photos of super shy critters that would have fleed had I used my old camera brand. Will for sure be interesting to test the inbuilt ND filters in this new one. Really looking forward to get this camera myself!
Great review Chris. You’re very persuasive with your enthusiasm and passion. You’ve nearly won me over but I feel I might not be able to justify such a “run and gun” machine.Take me back 20 years and I’d be onto it in a flash, but my needs today are a little less frenetic.Still, I’m not ruling it out altogether, love the concept of no tripod (definitely not my scene) and just that 12-100 bolted on for it’s life is very tempting.
Great review! I own an OMD EM5 Mark II.. and love it! It’s my second Olympus camera.. Was thinking of getting OMD Em1-II . However, totally considering the E-M1X. Of course, the price is not as obtainable but will save towards it. Hopefully take my photography to higher level.. Besides just being a gorgeous camera!! Great job Olympus!
Thanks for the review. I love your passion for the camera. I too love the Olympus cameras. Your excitement over the new camera really makes me want one. Thanks!! I may be $4k lighter soon. Arrrh, how do I explain that one. Cheers and nice work.👍
Great review mate! cant wait to get my hands on one !
Thanks mate.
Best - still feels so good to be working with this tool in 2023
Great Review from someone who has actually used the OM-D E-M1X over a number of months in multiple locations and different weather situations. The bulk of the negative comments I have seen are from people who have not had the opportunity to use a great good imaging system. Used with the Olympus Pro lenses makes it most useful for the wet and muddy outdoor conditions experienced in parts of the uk. I own a E-M1 M1 mkii and found it to be a very nice camera.
I have just had the opportunity to hold the new E-M1X and take a few shots with it. I was impressed with the feel and placement of the controls.
Well Done Chris...........
Thanks Adrian! And, will you be getting the new beast after holding it?
Hi Chris,
Yes, I ordered one last Saturday, will have to wait till the end of February to receive it, so should have it for the bluebells and snowdrops. I have a number of the Olympus Pro lens which are top class ( or even top glass!)
The Pro 45mm F/1.2 is superb for inner shots, also do landscapes with either Pro 7-14mm and Pro 12-40mm. I have used the E-M1 mkii for astronomy with the Pro 7-14, great for the Milky Way.
I forgot to mention that I also useE-M1 mkii for Bird Photography.... handheld in wooden hides (these hides have a great tendency to move / shake when other birders move around, birders using heavier gear have great difficulty trying to steady their equipment, some do manage to get good shots though) and because of the light weight M4/3 lens and the stabilisation I often get a better result than the FF guys with their 400mm monster lens. I use a Panasonic /Leica100-400mm F/4.0 lens and it is superb. I am way over 70 (years!!!) so weight of the gear is an issue, especially trekking in mountains.
Have spoken to an Olympus rep about putting "birding" into the Trains, Cars and Planes AI profiles.
I think you´ve made a fantastic job as an Olympus Ambassador and you managed that while still making a great review! Well done! Did you film all of the video with the EM1-X? (And if so, did you use the Log-profile all the time?)
I feel that all the planned "leaks" leading up to the presentation of the camera have somewhat hurt the image of it. It was rumored to be the Canikon killer and so on. When it was finally released, everyone had already read about AI AF and so on. I think that was a shame. If your video would have been one of the first things I ever saw about it. My first impression would have been SO much better!
Also, I wonder if Olympus will ever release really bright Telelenses? I think the coming 150-400 mm lens will be fantastic. But it is still a F4.5 lens. And much have been said about a new 2x teleconverter making it´s reach insane. I fear that lens (price aside) will not be as usable to me who use, and love, my EM1 mk2. I understand it will work fine with The EM1-X with it´s improved AF. But with the 2x teleconverter it would have to focus at F8. I wonder if that will be a problem for the EM1-X even with the improved AF? Also, at appertures higher than 8 the picture will start to deteriate in quality due to diffraction. That will mean that pictures at F11 - 22 will have lower quality.
Then there is all the talk about shooting sports indoor or not having great bokeh of the larger sensors. As for indoor shooting of sports, I thik a 200 mm F2 would be fantastic. And it would still be great with a 2X teleconverter! Or why not a 300mm F2 and a 400 mm F2.8? That would surely make the Canon and Nikon users perk up and reconsider a smaller sensor camera.
I belive lenses like these are neccesary in the long run to recruit users from other systems. Many FF shooters simply love their bokeh and brighter lenses would bring that AND better AF performance. (And allow for lower ISOs and less noise.) Please remember that these imaginary tele lenses, while being somewhat heavy for the old M43 user, would still be vastly more portable than Canons huge monsterlenses!
More tha a new EM1-mk3, I really wish Olympus would make these tele lenses. Even if it would break my bank. I am curious about your thoughts on this.
Finally I applaud Olympus move into computunal photography! It is, for me, the greatest features of the EM1-X. AI-AF, Software ND, to be able to set the AF pattern, Handheld highres with in camera stiching! All fantastic news!
My wishlist to Olympus for future features would be:
1. Shooting doubble-exposures with a preview. By this I mean that I would like to be able to choose a frame already shot from the memory cards and be able to superimpose it over the view in the viewfinder as I frame my next picture. It would be SO helpful when I take pictures for a montage I plan to do in photoshop. It would also be great to use in a studio I think.
2. I love panoramas. Why not have a smart panorama mode that help the photographer to take the greatest possible one with the lens used. The camera could, again, superimpose adapted guidelines in the viewfinder that changes depeding on lens used.
I would like a stiched panorama RAW in camera. Wow!
Then imagine if you could combine the panorama and live ND filter functions! You would be able to do all you creation in camera almost making post processing obsolete in your computer.
3. Bokeh. There is no way around it. It always come upp.
Olympus already have a fantastic Focus stacking feature that will let you take a series of pictures and put the sharp areas together in order to maximise sharpnes of a macro shots and so on. I will argue that this technique is usable for so much more. Why not use it in reverse and create a depth of field filter that will merge the sharp areas with the ones most out of focus.
As I understands it the focus bracketing takes a series of shots from your fucus point and forwards, away from you.
I propose that Olympus should try the other way around. Then stitch togerther the sharp and unsharp areas.
I would make the bokeh strenght variable and make i previewable in the viewfinder.
Olympus should call it "Live Bokeh". I think this feature alone would sell cameras if implemented well.
If you have contact with Olympus R&D please bring them my wishlist!
Again I have to commend you for a great video!
With regards
Stefan Schmidt - proud Olympus user! :)
Hi Stefan,
regarding "Live Bokeh" - I don't think the camera needs to use stitching for more bokeh, but use computational info to blur the unsharp areas more. Focus / lens / pixel data can provide the info for this & there could be a menu choice for straight RAW &/or computational RAW for the photographer. Then have variable bokeh options, like in a modern iphone’s ‘portrait’ mode. This should be 'even easier' to implement (and less restrictive than stitching) as there is so much more basic optical picture info from the comparatively massive MFT sensor.
23:25 My #1 reason for looking to switch to Olympus (probably E-M5 II or E-M1 II) is the IBIS, but the hi res mode is brilliant as an idea. Very exiting prospect for people who want/need both.
Hi, Chris, thanks for your deep review! :-) Keep doing well! :-)
Thanks my friend!
Thanks for your through review. I’m considering unloading all of my full-frame gear (D850, 5DM4, A7R3) and moving to MFT. I will be renting one shortly and try it out.
Very cool camera. This camera is beyond my needs, but I love my Em-1 mark ii. Love the firmware update for that camera. I've purchased a good quality dive housing for it so the fact Olympus shared that firmware to keep my Camera as up to date as possible makes me really happy I've invested in their brand. It's a great way to build customer loyalty. Would love to buy and EM-1X one day for on land shooting, but until then I'm happy with all my other Olympus gear.
Excellent sharing, thank you.
As a pro' photographer myself, this really is one of the best reviews I've seen for any camera, truly addressing the points a working photographer finds out about a camera, and how it stands up to pro' use.
I've pretty much given up on many other channels and reviewers because, for a pro', they only 'play' with cameras, so yes, I get a good overall idea of a camera and it's specs, but there isn't the provenance if you like, that I'm looking for.
Many early comments and reviews of the E-M1x have been a little puzzled by the camera, but this video puts the camera's design and purpose into true perspective, and it's impressive.
I've shot MFT alongside my Nikon and Canon DSLRs for 10 years now (sorry, it's Lumix!) and fully see how mirrorless can be a great tool for the pro', more so as camera's as advanced as the E-M1x come along.
Great vid, a worthwhile investment in my time!
This is a great camera and a great video from your side!
Thanks Tea Jay! Spent months on it and it’s nice to hear that people are appreciating it :-)
I've used all kinds of cameras of various sensor sizes and TBH they all are capable of taking fantastic images. Olympus is a great system for the right person and the E-M1X is a nice iterative step forward for the pro or hardcore enthusiast. I'm not complaining about the size of the E-M1X at all, in fact I think it's the perfect size for the type of camera it is, but moving forward, I do hope Olympus continues to focus on smaller body cameras for those who enjoy the best compromise between ultimate portability and image quality.
Looking forward to watching this when I get back from work tonight :D
Let me know what you thought of it when you’re through :-)
Wow Chris that looks like one amazing camera :D Completely out of my budget though but like you say it is a great working camera for the professional photographers out there. I really enjoyed watching your thoughts on it. Those images and video you have captured looked amazing keep up the good work Chris and I hope you have lot's of happy shooting with the new camera. I will have to stick to my EM5 and Pen f of which are more than suitable for my own needs as an amature photographer ( unless I come in to a lot of money ) :D Teddy
Amazing! It was fascinating to hear, watch and observe professional photographers going through a tons of natural obstacles to deliver amazing and inspiring images and videos. I really enjoyed these 43 minutes. Yes, this amazing camera is not for me, I am not making living out of photography, just a hobby but few days ago I had a chance to hold and shoot with Em1x and it feels so good. Really, really good. Totally understand you. Thanks again for sharing your experiences. Please tell your friends at Olympus, they cameras, lenses and most important they vision and technological capabilities always bring a joy each time when I take Olympus camera in my hand.
Thanks for watching Mike. Even after the release of the latest flagship, the E-M1 III, the E-M1X is still one of my favourite cameras. It just feels 'right' in hand.
Hi Chris, great review. I've been invested in the Em1 system since day one and from the moment I heard about the X I really thought that Olympus was going to sell this camera to me as a matter of routine. Like many though, I was kind of disappointed that really this is basically the mk2 in a bigger body, but I am slowly getting my head around all the ways it has actually improved and I do think for stills its for sure greater than the sum of its parts. I'm not an integrated grip/big body hater by the way, this camera is absolutely for me in almost every way. I gave my feedback to Olympus way back in 2013 that what they should do with the pro level bodies is make a mini D4 so I'm super happy they did that. Its a pure joy to me that they have gone this direction with the build and it looks like they have done an incredible job. I can't wait to play with one when my store gets one in. The battery grip never leaves my Em1. I want to buy this camera so bad.
The video side though, is where I just can't get myself onboard to pay the premium Olympus is asking for this product. I actually believe the price is determined by the cost of producing the body alone more than any of the tech inside, and I think that reliability and durability are worth it. But I am sick of needing a to reach for a second camera when I want quality video. I'm really glad you have spoken about having some disappointments with the video implementation in this review, and that you have engaged in the comments here with regard to the video and expressed a hope that Olympus will listen to users and hopefully offer a little something for us disappointed in the video in a firmware update. I have my reservations as to how much this is actually possible, so if its not possible then I am determined not to make an emotional purchase of this camera no matter how much I want it. Because if I have to rely on a second body for video, the Em1x starts to look like more or a luxury than a tool. Thats a value judgement that will be different for everyone though, sure. Real world though, this camera today is $4500 where I am [AU] and a Sony a9 is a little less than $4800 on sale. And ok, thats an apples to oranges comparison for sure, the Em1x is unique and thats fine. I agree. But there are limits to emotions overriding rationality, Olympus are currently offering cash back on new Em1 Mk2s which makes them a $1500 camera, so its 3 camera's for the price of one compared to the X and those 3 camera's currently have the exact same video specs as the em1x and make pretty much the same image in stills too. This is kinda infuriating, how hard can it be to make even the slightest improvement in such a key area. Olympus can say all they want they are primarily focused on stills, but at this point how do they not understand that their users actually care about video too. Its been this way in the camera business for literally a decade now.
But I don't want to complain here. I want to ask you, since you have that dialogue with Olympus and seem to share similar frustrations with this lack of video advancement, what you think might realistically be achievable if Olympus can indeed do something in future firmware? I think these are muddy waters that kind of need to be cleared up since you have raised the possibility of that occurring. I'm going to say that I personally don't think much can be done to change these video specs, but I am very interested in that very small amount that might be able to be done. Because every little bit helps. Small changes can make big differences. Which is almost Olympus's mantra with the X so lets hope they can share that vision for the video capabilities on the camera moving forward. Lets find out what it is capable of and what it is not capable of and do what we can to squeeze out a little more value. And more importantly than value for money, squeeze out a little more practicality, make the video files the best they can be.
I would love to be wrong on this, but I don't think that the bigger body or addition of a second image processor is of any significance to what can be done. Obviously other manufacturers do far more with video in far smaller bodies so heat is not a factor here and having a bigger body is not going to be an advantage that can be leveraged. Similarly, the extra processor, while processing power is a factor in encoding video its not necessarily [in fact I'm sure its not] the job of the truepic 8's to encode/process the video signal. So all of the surface level guesstimates of what the camera might be capable of judging on the size and power of the body compared to similar cameras are not going to be relevant, because the video is handled [or is it?] by dedicated hardware chips that is built to serve a very narrow purpose. What those chips encode is what those chips encode. They are not built do do more than what Olympus wanted them to do back in 2016. And obviously they are the same as they were in 2016 as with everything else. So there's no moving from 8 bit to 10 bit, no switching from IPB to All-I, no chance of switching from h264 to something like pro-res, or h265 or anything of that nature. In other words, no chance of making anything approaching drastic improvements. And while thats a shame, it is understandable that Olympus wanted to use what they had in the mk2 and focus their time in other directions. What they have done in those other directions is mind blowing. So, agree with you there.
So what is possible to be improved in video? And what is likely to be improved?
I think we have to look at what is already happening and ask for some tweaking around the edges. I might not be remembering this correctly but I think that when the Em1 came out the 1080p was 30 frames a second only. There was no 24 or 25 frames. Then the em5 ii came along with those frame rates and via firmware the Em1 got 24p and 25p. So something like that would be a good start. The 4k DCI mode is the highest quality video mode with a bitrate of 237Mbps at 24p. And I love that the camera does proper 4k not just UHD. But almost no-one any actually views their "4k" videos in DCI. Its cinema format for projection, so useful for cropping back down to UHD though perhaps. If Olympus could give us 1 more frame per second in DCI, we could have higher quality 4k 25p for not much stress on the camera and that is a tangibly useful thing for many people. Because the drop in bitrate down to 102Mbps for the UHD frame rates is a massive drop. I don't really understand how the numbers work there, DCI is about 6% more pixels yet the UHD bitrate drops by almost 2.5 times? For the same frame rate, or 1 extra frame per second, or 6 frames a second. I'm not sure why that is. Doesn't make sense to me. So thats what I would ask for first, can we get at least 25p in DCI for those who may want to finish in UHD 25p but want the higher bit rate and/or ability to crop a little. Then ask, well could we get 30p in DCI perhaps? Or alternatively, can we increase the bit rate in UHD? Up to say 200Mbps?
That would be a start, and I'm sure that while the existing components can't be pushed to do things they aren't designed for, the things I've just mentioned should be within the capability of the hardware via software tweaking. Little changes like that would make a tangible difference, and would be much appreciated. If after those basic changes it were possible to push for video specs that are more competitive with the competition, well we could ask for a little bit more, like how about seeing if we can do 4:2:2 internal in 8 bit rather than 4:2:0? Maybe that is possible. Maybe. It would be another big step. Then, how about if we could increase the bit rates across the board just as far as you can go, give us everything you can, and maybe that turns out to be 400Mbps? That would also be huge. That would make 8 bit log more practical too.
Honestly, I just wish that they had of seen the opportunity to invest in video encoders available in 2018 that weren't around in 2016 and update the system to give us 10 bit internal in h265 or prores. But, they didn't. It is what it is. For a fence sitter like me who just assumed that that is what they would of done, and just assumed I would buy the Em1x but can't now because I can't stomach the idea of paying for the privilege of shooting with such a great body and all that cool new tech when the video is still so far behind, firmware is the only hope. And I share your hope that now the camera is out there the engineering team could turn their focus to making some very small, but very meaningful, improvements to make sure those of us who do actually use the video features on our Olympus camera's can enjoy something more if we pony up for the Em1x.
Looking forward to seeing what you do with your camera Chris. Again, thanks for the great review.
My dream camera 📸
Great detail video
Thanks for this video - You have answered many of my questions, the answer to the main one („is this camera for me?”) I’ll have to answer myself, hopefully after giving it a proper whirl over a weekend. As a happy user of the EM1II, I can see that the X is a step forward in many aspects - and I do not mind the from factor. If I’m going for a wildlife outing, my camera is gripped anyway, as it is a boost in ergonomics with bigger lenses. I am a bit dissapointed that they did not use a BSI sensor though - might have still bumped the IQ up a bit.
Funny thing - I got into m4/3 with an idea that it will be my „second” system - for travelling and such. I am also an owner of a competing, full-frame mirrorless system, and guess what... with time, I noticed that the FF stays home more often than not. The weight of the setup, the ergos, the IS, the ruggedness, and the overall shooting experience - all a lot better with the Oly. And also, somehow I have more lenses for the m4/3... So now I’m getting used to thinking that the m4/3 is now my main system. How did THAT happen ?! 🤯😉
Chris, I found your approach to this much more meaningful than the more technical reviews. Thank you. Does back button focus work well in both vertical and horizontal? It appears the AEL/AFL button is there but you did not mention it in your video. Thanks again. Well done.
Thanks Andy.
Yes BBF works great in either direction.
Best review until now. Thanks for this piece of true view. Nice camera. In fact, I think Olympus is running towards the future: small, capable and computacional photography aids. EVF quality and other issues will be taken care in a more simple way then the tech inside this camera.
Fully agree with you here.
Can’t wait to watch
I bought one, thanks for sharing this great review.
Enjoy it!
Chris, excellent review, I totally enjoyed it. After seeing your desert adventure, I'd have loved to have taken this camera body to war during my career shooting imagery for the US Air Force. Thanks.
Would have been the right tool for that job too. For sure!
We did the original cold weather testing for Nikon on the original D1 at Eielson AFB in Alaska. Learned all about carrying extra batteries and hot swapping! If you want to shoot the northern lights, the ideal place is about 50 miles outside of Fairbanks AK at a place called Chena Hot Springs. Find me an extra EM-1x and I'd even guide for you! LoL. @@chriseyrewalker
Excellent, review, Chris - thank you! I have been using Olympus equipment for several years since re-kindling my photography hobby, and I fell in love with the original E-M1. I now use my E-M1MarkII primarily for wildlife including birds-in-flight. I've seen that the deep learning AF settings in the EM1X initially encompasses, to paraphrase, 'trains, planes, and automobiles'. While it's been reported that Olympus is 'working on others' - is there any indication of a possible time frame for when they may release updates for wildlife, and hopefully include the recognition of birds-in-flight? Your thoughts and insight would be appreciated! Thanks again for the outstanding review!
Great feedback thanks.
My pleasure
Thanks for a great video Chris. So good to hear from someone who has actually used the camera for an extended period. I use and love my EM1 ii for wildlife and am seriously interested in the EM1 X. Apart from the deep learning autofocus which as yet offers no benefit for wildlife has the continuous autofocus been improved over the EM1 ii?
Thanks Alan.
Yes, the focussing is on a different level now. Worlds better and you’d be getting a mich higher hit-rate with CAF on the E-M1X for sure.
A great Video, I am a long time Nikon Shooter and have been looking at the olympus system for a while, I have been very lucky and have been loaned a full pro kit to try out thanks to olympus Australia, first impressions for me start with is the going to take a while to learn the intense menu system not so much a con just so much customisation that i havent used before, now to the camera, WOW the feel of both the e-m1mx and the M 1 mk 2 is beatutiful the dials and buttons are sweet to use, I have had the camera for less than a week and am in love with it, I do an awefull lot of motor cycle sport photography and been getting the cameras set up for a national bike meeting in less than 2 weeks , took only a few shots and a few adjustments to get it to my liking and already i am blown away with the performance, been sitting beside the freeway for a half hour trying out my panning with the 40 - 150 2.8 pro if anyone was nearby they would have heard me chuckling as i reviewed the results, tried a few different kinds of subjects and my early impression of the 2 cameras for me personally think its time to jump to olympus, my only dear was with the small sensor and low light thats yet to be confirmed but most of my photography is in the middle of the day but i do like to go to live music events at local clubs but with currant restrictions there not been much in the way of inside events so i will need to wait to try out low light performance, I know this is a bit on the long side but i hope my enthusiasm comes through
Thanks for a great review. You answered a lot of the questions I had, and did so in a clear and realistic manner. Looking at the camera, I think the one area where I am most disappointed is that they did not upgrade the viewfinder screen. So much it looks like they did right but that is the one big omission in my mind. I am very excited about the hand-held Hi-Res. The samples I have seen look great. also the Live ND filter. I. am retired now, so don't make a lot of money with my photography but pursue it just for the love of the image. My current primary is the EM5-II. My primary subjects are travel, historical architecture and some landscapes. The handheld hires looks wonderful and if I can ever afford the camera is something I would use a lot, when subject conditions allowed. I am also excited about the inclusion of GPS and other date being included in the EXIF files. For me that is very useful as I am often shooting on the run in a very random manner. Thanks for you review. You told me a lot about what I wanted to know.
Thanks for taking the time to watch David. I’m so happy to hear that the video was useful for you. Hopefully the E-M1X will find its way into your camera bag soon then 😉
A great review thank-you! This seems like the camera I wanted when I switched from the E5 4/3 camera to the EM1 models. How does the weight feel compared to the EM1Mk2 - does it feel like going back to the 4/3 cameras if you ever used those? I got used to the lighter cameras now and also not so young to carry heavy stuff! Also, this USB power idea with a cable to a pack in your jacket in the field - can this power the camera while using it or just charge when turned off? I am thinking if batteries totally depleted. Your review has moved me to be more interested in getting this camera rather than wait 1-2 years for an updated Em1, I will have to try get my hands on a M1X to decide!
Thanks for the kind comment.
I haven’t used 4/3. But it’s definitely still a very compact and small system. Much like a gripped E-M5 or E-M1 but with much much better ergonomics and handling.
The USB power will charge the batteries when the camera is switched off and will power the camera when switched on. So yes, a very useful feature indeed.
Thanks, Chris for the excellent video. Would have liked you to mention a little about the audio side of the camera regarding the film making aspect for solo shooting. As an amateur I recently did Antarctica and South Atlantic islands after a trip in Norway with the OMD-EM10 Mk II and Mark III. Both of those managed the extreme conditions brilliantly with a little care. 4 hour timelapse in -18C of auroras and filming in snowstorms. Used external sound equipment, which meant carrying more gear of course. You certainly got my interest, especially on the handheld stabilisation, weather sealing and the focus pulling ability.
Despite the OM-1 raising the bar on MFT cameras, I think this model will still be my next buy. With how cheap they’ve become, I think they might still be the entry level adventure photographers best choice, especially with gps etc included. Seeing it in your hands was helpful, since the gripped nature of the body makes it look big in isolation!
Huge discount is on this camera at the moment, very tempted to buy one together with a lens or two.
I am predominantly a Fujifilm X series shooter as I love all that it offers yet I've admiring Olympus for a long time and considering a change or perhaps an experiment to shake things up a little in my photographic journey.
Great review by the way.
That stabilization at 13:35 is amazing!
It’s nuts isn’t it!!
Great review! I find the Deep learning AF to be the most interesting feature.
Yes the deep learning is definitely a VERY interesting idea. I just didn’t have the subjects or opportunities to really test it. But I’m keen to change that if Olympus let me 😁
I think they will.
I work with Machine Learning (SAP). The ML models are trained on a data set and then it is able to dynamically adjust and apply the model to incoming real world data. This is such an interesting application of the concept because I can already see Olympus creating multiple "trained" models which will be pre-loaded into the camera and selectable via the menus ... thereby giving the user the chance to determine how the camera thinks and behaves. The fact that this is applied to the area of video auto focus just opens up the possibility that with the evolution of this technology and the proper codec, Olympus may be a surprise player in the cinema world of the future.
What is so interesting about this Peter? The camera doesn't have deep learning AF, rather, the AF was developed using deep learning before being installed on the camera. You appear to suggest that the camera has 'deep learning' capability, and it doesn't. The AF will only be improved by future firmware upgrades as for every other camera.
Fantastic review! I'am certainly interested in switching to Olympus even before watching this video but the features you mention in the video are something that other brands really doesn't equal, especially the video features.
Thanks Gustav.
You say it. Olympus has implemented specs that aren’t just ‘more, better, faster’ but has also developed features that are new and unique and make this a very interesting camera.
It’s one of the things I love about Olympus: innovation.
Except even the Lumix G7 does 4k 30fps and thats years old and a budget camera.
Hello, many thanks for the good video.
Take a drink every time Chris says "it just works" :P
Great vid though Chris
Hahaha
Great video, I was wondering why you had fewer videos recently. Why do you think they kept the same sensor as the EM1 mkii?
Thanks Mark. This one kept me quite busy haha.
I don’t know. But I do know that that sensor is more than enough for me to do my job. So I’m not really disappointed like most of the people who complain about it and don’t really use camera to make a living.
Thanks for the comprehensive review. As a sports shooter, but not a pro (although I do sell the odd pic), how is the blackout in the evf after shooting a burst? Presumably the buffer clears much quicker than on the Em1ii too?
Thanks.
Honestly, I’m not too sure. I haven’t had the situation where I needed to shoot multiple bursts in fast sequence and where the blackout would have been a problem.
Best contact Michel Hurren on Facebook. He’s an ambassador for Olympus Australia and shot a LOT of bursts of a driving car whilst sitting in a helicopter. He’ll know for sure.
Watch it over my firestick. Too expensive for me but thanks for sharing your thoughts and experience. Cheers.
Good Work!
I used Olympus back with E1 and E3 but then I became a proper Canon man. But the weight of the system pushed me back to Olympus more recently. The video is really good. I shoot a lot of running photography as my daughter is a top runner. I've found the M1ii very good for this. I've used a grip as well which I like for this. Like yourself, I've found IBIS terrific. I think I'll get one of these cameras. Resolution above 16mp is actually a false God, photographically IME.
That was by far the most interesting review of this camera, you do a really good job in "promoting" this camera. While not for me, I like to know what Olympus has achieved in it. I was a bit unhappy that they didn't come up with a new sensor - but what you say about the highlight roll-off sounds more like improved amplifiers and A/D converters alongside the increased processing power. I wish Olympus would tell a bit more about those details …
Hi Chris. So with the dials being more recessed how hard was it to change settings with gloves on? I shoot Northern Wisconsin winters and at 55 the circulation in my hands is not what it use to be(frozen them to many times). With my EM-1ii I've gotten good at using medium weight liner gloves and still having control with the dials and buttons. What weight gloves did you use and was it hard to get the settings you wanted quickly? Thanks for a great review and all your inspiration to get out and shoot!
Easy to change settings. No worries with gloves.
Andrew, try these. They're expensive, but I have a pair and they're excellent for what you describe. photographygloves.com/products/vallerret-photography-glove-ipsoot
Thanks so much, nice work. Just found out about you and have subscribed to your channel. Have just returned from a trip to Antarctica and many of the features in this new camera would have been very helpful, especially the larger buttons and the wider spacing between the buttons as well as the switch to disable inadvertent changes to the settings. I found using the em1.2 with gloves to be difficult and error prone even though I was using the battery grip. Still, I did get many satisfying photos but it was often a struggle. - Joan
I'm impressed, I love that you call out how an experience is more than just the specs. Olympus is never going to win on paper, but maybe they will convert a lot of photographers who have a chance to shoot with it. Thank you!
This camera is all about ‘being experienced’. I wasn’t convinced of it myself at our first meeting back in September. But it soon grew on me and now I wouldn’t leave the house without it.
I will try it out. Does the high res give you jpeg or RAW files? I am not sure it has enough to make me pay quite that much for the camera (but I reserve judgement until I try it)? I am currently a G9 user and 60fps 4K is something I use, so that would be an issue. The autofocus is of interest (again, being a G9 user, autofocus during video is not really a thing with that model 😆. For an enthusiast like me, the cost would be an issue, if it was within £500 of the current flagships I would be more inclined, but to justify that cost I'd need to be mightily impressed & happy to drop 60fps 4K as well...so I am not sure without seeing it in the flesh. It is an interesting idea and I hope it goes well for Olympus.
thank you for sharing your experience - may i ask what micro are you using at minute 14:01?
That’s the Rode Video Micro
Hi Chris, I can see your buzzing over this camera. 7 stop IS ! that alone is amazing and we know how good the EM 1m2 is. Has pricing been confirmed?
I believe it’s around 3000EUR
Whow ,it is probably a camera I couldn’t afford but most important is Olympus’s statement with this camera is that they are a big player without the need of a FF sensor absolutely mind blowing camera and well presented Chris 🤘
Great review! I really wan't this camera now :) I really like my EM-1 mkII and this seems even better. Better placement of the buttons and even better IS and weather seeling. The joystick is a great addition too. Is it the exact same sensor as on the EM-1X or can you see any improvements over the EM-1 MkII in ISO-performance and so on?
I have the same question.
25:30 I'm in Yunnan right now and just took the EM-1 MII through some dark caves with waterfalls, and have been shooting low shutter speed and in-camera HDR images *handheld* to smooth out the water and balance the exposure a bit more, and the images are great already. So this additional stops of IS plus the live ND feature are exciting for me, considering what the MII can already do. Will be able to leave my tripod at home!
Great review man. I do wish they at least gave us external 10bit like the em 5ii and em i mark ii, 4k 60 to keep up with the competition, increased resolution of the view finder/screen and a top lcd. It seems like Olympus held back on us. Solid camera nonetheless.
had Olympus and always enjoy it now want to go back and yes this one is ideal but which one a bit smaller++__
Great review! Wondering how the deep learning AF compares to the Sony A9 or A7R III. Also wondering if this is lens dependant - some lenses work with it better than others?
I’d assume that all PRO lenses will perform best with this feature. Faster AF also depends on the motors and design in the lenses of course.
Can’t really comment on the A9 or a7R comparison, haven’t tested them.
I have a EM1.2 and I'm very happy with it but I feel that Olympus over-sold the CAF and tracking abilities. I also shoot with a Sony A9 and Nikon D850 with long lenses. Would you say the EM1X CAF and tracking is comparable? Also, does Olympus have birds flying against busy backgrounds on their deep learning road map?
Thanks for a very enjoyable and competent video review!!
nice review
Thanks James ✌🏼