I purchased this lens to take my daughters senior portrait. Great lens, I couldn't be happier with it. The lens paid for itself . Money well spent. Thanks for the review!
Quite so. One of the main reasons that despite owning full frame Nikon and Canon cameras, I decided to get a used EM1 MKii. I already had an EM5 MKii. The size of some of the recent offerings for other mirrorless cameras, verges on monstrosity. The whole point of mirrorless was to be light, small, affordable plus giving high quality images not being as large and heavy and expensive as the DSLRs.
This lens is absolutely stunning! Ultra sharp images, no distortion and makes you work hard for those great compositions unlike zoom lenses. A gem of a lense
Reason number 11. A wonderful lens for street photography. It is so small that it doesn't attract a lot of attention. Thanks Robin for a wonderful video ... also for the reminder to dig this out of my camera bag more often.
my main lens for street photography, bought it by mistaking it for a 25mm, never shipped it back, became my main. So small it's contrasting when I see other photographers sometimes with their huge full frame and lenses
It is a very good lens and I love its simplicity, compactness and am reminded of the image quality of my Leica Summicron 35mm 1.4 optic I used during the 1970s.
I totally agree with you about this lens Robin. I used to own it a few years ago but I sold my entire M43 system back in 2016. However whenever I looked back at my photos from that era, the pictures taken with the Olympus 45mm f1.8 always stood out. Beautiful colour, sharpness and bokeh. So, a couple of months ago I saw a good price on a new Olympus EM10ii and this lens and I bought it. I am so pleased that I did. I shan't buy any other lens for the camera. This is a pairing that will be permanent for me. Its a unique combo; a high quality setup for candid portrait/street shots that weighs so little and performs so well. I really appreciate it when TH-cam reviewers go back in time and review older hardware that is now available at such an affordable price.
I keep researching this lense and have almost purchased it several times, but have stopped each time thinking I don't shoot enough portraits to justify the purchase. However, this video has finally convinced me that I need to add it to my camera bag and will be buying it straight away! Thank you Robin...for this great video and all your other awesome videos!
Going to buy one, but got a Panasonic 25mm lens instead. The Olympus and Panasonic primes, when coupled with IBIS, are awesome lenses for night photography.
I have this lease and portraits are the furthest from my mind. It’s a great lens and I’ve just started to use it on my Panasonic G9 and the results have blown me away. I hope you purchased it!
Photographers anecdote with this lens: Me to model: "Let's take close ups with my favourite lens" Model "Oh, what a tiny cute thing. Is it a toy?" Model after shoot: "Wow!" :-) In my opinion, it still outcompetes the 25mm/1.2 during most situations Thanks, dear Robin and enjoy your coffee. Joerg
Thanks Joerg for the coffee and kind words. I guess, we can't compare 25mm vs 45mm, they are both very different lens, they render the background (telephoto compression) very differently!
@@robinwong Thanks, dear Robin. Indeed, the telecompression is an very important effect. Therefore I'm only switching from 45mm to 25mm if needed, e.g. limited space. Have a nice day. Cheers , Joerg
I own the Zuiko 17mm, 25mm, and 45mm lenses. They are all excellent lenses, but the 45mm is certainly my favorites. Absolutely beautiful results every time. It is a real bargain and a must-have for any micro four-thirds set up.
The 17 wasn’t that sharp overall and the 25 I had wasn’t sharp at the borders. The 45 is perfect though. I have to test the 75 :))) Although for the same price I got a Canon 135 f2 which of course has monster size...
I just bought this lens second hand (£140) as my first ever lens because of this review and others like it, to go with my Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7. I'm completely new to photography, so am scratching around the internet looking for online photography courses, and reviews on how to use this lens to its maximum. Thank you Mr Wong. 👍😊
I just bought this lens in mint condition from ebay. It included a clear glass lens protector/filter for %150. Been testing all day on my venerable OM-D E-M1 camera and I must say it is exceeding my wildest expectations. Great video Robin! I consistently watch your reviews before buying Any lens. Bravo! just boug
I totally agree Robin. This lens is so small and light and the results are amazing. It is so much fun to take pictures with my Pen-F. A realy good combo. At least the price is really good for this lens. Thanks for your video. Your pictures in this video are very nice by the way!
Thanks Andreas for the kind words. I always emphasize on photos first - for me at least, no photos, no talk! There is no point rambling on about how great the lens is, if I don't have anything to show!
I’ve had this lens for years and it continues to amaze me! Almost all my MFT lenses are Olympus. My only complaint is the lack of included lens hoods in all but the most expensive Oly lenses, and the fact that the hoods are expensive if you do get them. Great images Robin!
This 45mm F1.8 was one of the reasons y buyed the omd 10 markIII months ago for my family portraits, and even street photography. Its really small and the price ratio is glorious. Still i'm really impressed with the smooth bokeh and sharpnes of this lens. Ty Robin your videos are really great, your passion for photography is really contagious!!
@@robinwong Yes! i will do that that 45mm is truly a gem on the system, my next step will be the 25 prime or the 12-40 2.8 pro i cant decide! probably the 12-40 pro if i can purchase one on good state second hand. Thank you Robin!
Thanks Robin, beautiful video about the amazing M.Zuiko 45mm f/1.8. I own this lens for years and it never fails in tacking beautiful portraits. Greetings from Germany 📷 👍🤗🙏
I ordered this lens a couple months ago with a $50 discount on the Olympus website. I am in Vietnam, and it was delivered to my dad's place in Vermont. It'll be my present to myself when I get home, once the world becomes sane again. Please world, get sane, so I can use this lens!
I've got this lens mounted now on an original E-M5 (Mark i) body that I purchased just last week(!) for under $140! It's a low cost light weight rig but delivers great images!
Great review. For my very light kit, I carry the 45 and the Panny 20 to use on my good old EPL5. Works for most situations I find myself in when mountain biking, ski touring, or just wanting a light kit than with my OMD with Pro lenses. It's hard to beat a such great lens that fits in a shirt pocket!
Hey man, may I ask a question, is there an advantage using ibis even it's brod daylight? Or should I disable it and just use it when shutter needs to be low?
I have the Olympus 17mm, 45mm and 75mm f/1.8 primes which cover most use cases. They are all seriously good lenses, for me though it is the 75mm that really stands out.
Thanks for the video. One reason I like the Olympus 45mm f/1.8 lens on my micro 4/3 digital camera is that I can use it for test shots for my Leica M6 35mm film rangefinder with 90mm f/2 Leitz lens.
Great video Robin bringing out the Top reasons of this unique lens...and the fact that it was introduced in 2011 and still remains a top choice...and all this for an unbeatable price of USD 299 !!!
Hi Robin, hope youre well! Thanks for the video as always. I own the 12-45mm M.Zuiko Pro, which has been a great entry into M43 and digital cameras in general. However I've found a 45mm f1.8 2nd hand at a good price. I was considering the 17mm as I shoot landscape & street more frequently; but after seeing this video Im going to pick t 45mm up and hopefully that'll sort me out for low light & portrait on my travels!
Hi Robin. This was one of my first Olympus lenses. In pre-OM-D days I intended to work with the 4 f1.8 primes only. The EM-5 and the 12-40 PRO changed all that. I still have the 45, and use it periodically. Thanks for a good review.
I really love this lens too. When I'm not underway with the "big" equipment (M1M3 and Pro lenses), I always have the PEN-F with the 17 mm 1.8 attached, the 45 mm 1.8 and the FL-LM3 in my bag. So I can do Landscape, Street and Portrait with minimal gear in a superb quality. :-)
This is the first non-kit Olympus lens I purchased. Not realizing that the lens is often discounted, I paid the full price of $400 for it. I feel it is worth every penny even at full price. That Olympus could make a 90mm equivalent lens with such great performance in such a small package is nothing short of amazing.
Just got mine delivered today ☺️ Just 110€ including a lens hood (used, but like new). Coming from a vintage 50mm 1.9, this tiny thing is a beast for taking pictures of our cats in low light 🤣
Hi Robin, Thanks for the reviews. I really appreciate them. I am a Canon full frame user (amateur), but purchased an used Olympus pen ep7 with a 14-42 lens following a review on zenography TH-cam channel about the pen cameras and I am really impressed with the image quality and the fact I can put it in my pocket. Please keep up your reviews for ordinary non-professional photographers like me. Thank you again.
I recently bought the 45mm 1.8 and the 25mm 1.8. I love the look and overall picture quality of both of those lenses! For street photography the 45mm is a little tight. In crowded places there´s always someone between you and your "target". But for people and portraits in particular, it´s fantastic!
Just grabbed this for 219$ on mpb love how in just getting into m43 at the right time where all these lens were 4-6 hundred dollars years ago and are now dirt cheap on the used market. Bought a g7 about 2 months ago and have sourced 4 lens for under 1k
Great lens loves the f1.8 lenses, so easy to keep in a pocket just wish the 45mm had the same focus ring like the 17mm and all f1.8 lenses used the same filter thread thought your point 11 would be you have ten for sale on eBay lol. point 12 try the 45mm with the extension tube it's a fantastic macro lens then.
The 45mm was meant to be in a lower tier than the 17mm, hence it has plastic body and no manual focusing clutch. Not sure what happened after that, Olympus just put them all in the same category.
I scored one for $120. It's actually the second prime lens I purchased (found a 30mm macro for $160). I love how versatile it is for what I do with it (family events, snake photos).
What an amazing experience with yo article! Congratulations. Thanks for sharing that story!! Keep up!! Love the videos. And yes, love the look of the 45mm.
I have three best lenses for video -- Tokina 11mm-16mm f2.8 (there is a learning curve for getting to know how to use this lens), Nikkor 35 mm f1.8 on my D3300 and Olympus 45 mm f1.8 on my G85. You are right, this lens is the best to convince clients.
I'm doing my first official wedding gig and the store clerk at B & H photo recommended this lens. I also have a 12-60mm Leica lens so I hope I'm covered as I've run out of budget for more lenses. Thanks for this reassuring video.
Thanks Robin. I found an "open box" lens being offered by a reputable online retailer at a reduced price and just bought it based on this review and a Peter Forsgard review.
Hi Robin, fab video and I agree it is an outstanding portrait lens for the size and money.. great for video too...my own preference for the majority of outdoor portraits is now the Olympus 75mm f1.8 but the 45mm and 25mm are still gems to use when needed...
@@robinwong you ARE a good sales person indeed Robin. I like all your videos and have been following you for a few years now. I especially liked one particular thing you said that was not directly photography related and to which I do not want to attract attention here in this forum as this is out of context. :-)
I did a photoshoot in studio last saturday and I am in the middle of processing the photos. Was very curious about background highlights on few of my lenses with Christmas lights and other shiny decorations. Zooms unfortunately have "onion rings", while M.Zuiko 75mm F1,8 and M.Zuiko 45mm F1.8 came to have the best highlights I was about to be critical a bit about the sharpness when compared to 25mm F1.4 Summilux, but after closer examination of the photos I retracted that argument. Also at F2,2 and F2,5 were both lenses exceptionally sharp. Given the fact that Summilux is considered to be among the sharpest M43 lenses this is quite surprising find. Also highlights. Summilux unfortunately has visible aperture at the edges, 45mm F1.8 had perfectly round highlights, both at F2.2 and F2.5 apertures. One last find... Olympus lenses tend to be slightly more bluish compared to Lumix lenses. Comparing 25mm Summilux and 45mm F1.8 this difference appears to be 350 Kelvin. If you want to match two such lenses, add to Olympus one, or alternatively substract from Lumix.
Thanks Robin, I've had the 45mm 1.8 for about 6 years and I concur with your assessment. While it was my most desired M4/3 lenses has turned out to be one of my least used after going back to Panasonic bodies, largely because of ucorrected chromatic aberration with Panasonic bodies and somewhat, harsh distracting bokeh on complex backgrounds when stopped down a bit from wide open. While your's and other photographer's M.Zuiko 45mm shots are stunning in terms of contrast, color and detail, on the Panasonic bodies, I'm unimpressed when compared to the 42.5mm f/1.7 Panasonic and bigger, heavier and more expensive Leica options.
Great video, Robin. I do own the lens and agree it is light, has nice bokeh and excellent image quality. I do find it is prone to hunting in low light or back light situations.
I'd suggest shooting at wide open F1.8, then the hunting is less. Also depends on which camera you are using. If you are using the older Olympus cameras, then yes, the hunting is a real issue. Any newer OM-D cameras (E-M1 Mark II, E-M1X, E-M5 Mark III, etc) will have the ability to take advantage of wider aperture and focus much better in low light.
Awesome I have this lens and dont use it as much as I should. Recently I bought the Panasonic Lumix. G9 II i think this lens will be a perfect partner for it. Cheers John
You can get this lens for used about 160 Euros in Germany. Actually I saw one still with the original plastic covers not removed for 165 Euros in the shop. I have the zuiko 14-150 mm and the Lumix 20mm and all the shots that people like are taken with the Zuiko 45mm f1.8. For Robin the lens is the money maker, I don't make any money with it yet, but it is the lens which makes most people happy with their pictures.
Three and a half years ago this was the lens that was finally responsible for me selling all my full frame gear and moving to Micro 4/3rds. I handled the lens at a photography show and coundn't believe that it really was the equivalent of a full frame 90mm f1.8, after the big, heavy 85mm and 90mm f1.8 full frame lenses I'd been using. It's now my most used prime lens and second only to the Olympus 12-40mm f2.8, which is the most used lens I have. It's sharp and it's lovely, what more can I say?
Sometimes there are lenses that make you wanna switch camera brands. This is one of those lenses. Thank goodness Tamron made the 45 1.8 USD VC lens for Nikon. I feel just a great about my Tamron as you do about this great little lens.
This lens weather sealed and with a 46 mm filter thread - it would be a dream lens! Well, with this low price, weather sealing is not that much of an issue, because the lens is so cheap. Still, I would pay more and carry (a bit) more weight for the convenience. It might actually come … ;-)
This lens sparked my interest in M43. I bought it used together with a Panasonic GX850, combined 400€. My other cameras didnt leave the draw since. I am so surprised about the quality in this little form factor. Truly amazing technology. Thank you for the vid, great review!
Hi Robin, I'm sure that now you are more famous than Steve Huff and Mike Johnston together (I never heard of them before). Please continue your great job!
I’m just about to move to M4/3 Robin by purchasing EM5 markiii & am finding your videos a great help in my selection of lenses. I’m pretty much settled on the kit lens14-150, +75-300 ( for wildlife ) and either the 30 mm macro or the lens you review here the 45 mm1.8. Iloved your photo examples but would really have appreciated the settings which you normally include. Thanks for great tips & Im delighted you are now an OMD visionary. They would have been mad to let you go. Greetings from a grateful Scot🙏🏻🏴
Here's 2 more to make it a dozen: size and price. Got the 45/1.8 lens since it was released. Even though my preference is to shoot wider, I always have this with me along with the 20/1.7. Because of this lens, I became the unofficial portrait photographer at the company I used to work at.
Great video Robin. I really love this lens too! I was very fortunate a few years ago to pick up a used OMD EM10 and a 45mm F1.8 for $200 AUD. Lens was in mint condition and decided to sell the EM10 for $200 and keep the 45mm for my EM5. I'm always happy with the results I get and will continue to use it for many years to come :)
Bonus : #11: Very low price, specially if compared to performances and image quality 😉
Agreed - purchased mine brand new for £130 (~$165 USD). I love this lens more than some of the more expensive ones I have
V
I purchased this lens to take my daughters senior portrait. Great lens, I couldn't be happier with it. The lens paid for itself . Money well spent. Thanks for the review!
This lens defines the M43 system for me. Small, light, compact, affordable and stunning image quality
Can't agree more
Quite so. One of the main reasons that despite owning full frame Nikon and Canon cameras, I decided to get a used EM1 MKii. I already had an EM5 MKii. The size of some of the recent offerings for other mirrorless cameras, verges on monstrosity. The whole point of mirrorless was to be light, small, affordable plus giving high quality images not being as large and heavy and expensive as the DSLRs.
Love his videos... Robin Wong has to be one of the most endearing and enthusiastic photographers around!
This lens is absolutely stunning! Ultra sharp images, no distortion and makes you work hard for those great compositions unlike zoom lenses. A gem of a lense
Reason number 11. A wonderful lens for street photography. It is so small that it doesn't attract a lot of attention. Thanks Robin for a wonderful video ... also for the reminder to dig this out of my camera bag more often.
NO worries, glad I can share. Yes, the lens deserves a bit more attention!
my main lens for street photography, bought it by mistaking it for a 25mm, never shipped it back, became my main. So small it's contrasting when I see other photographers sometimes with their huge full frame and lenses
Bro, your smile makes me smile. Imma buy this lens, thanks 🔥
It is a very good lens and I love its simplicity, compactness and am reminded of the image quality of my Leica Summicron 35mm 1.4 optic I used during the 1970s.
indeed, for such a small lens, the results you get from it is truly remarkable
i love your positive energy bro....keep the great work
I totally agree with you about this lens Robin. I used to own it a few years ago but I sold my entire M43 system back in 2016. However whenever I looked back at my photos from that era, the pictures taken with the Olympus 45mm f1.8 always stood out. Beautiful colour, sharpness and bokeh. So, a couple of months ago I saw a good price on a new Olympus EM10ii and this lens and I bought it. I am so pleased that I did. I shan't buy any other lens for the camera. This is a pairing that will be permanent for me.
Its a unique combo; a high quality setup for candid portrait/street shots that weighs so little and performs so well. I really appreciate it when TH-cam reviewers go back in time and review older hardware that is now available at such an affordable price.
This 45mm 1.8, and pany 25mm 1.7 are wonderful lenses...budget lenses
Yeah, for the price you are paying, you get a lot out of the 45mm F1.8 lens!
Oh great, I have those two! Glad someone else thinks they are good.
I keep researching this lense and have almost purchased it several times, but have stopped each time thinking I don't shoot enough portraits to justify the purchase. However, this video has finally convinced me that I need to add it to my camera bag and will be buying it straight away! Thank you Robin...for this great video and all your other awesome videos!
@Alex Konstantinow agree totally. So far, at least 90% of my shots with this lens haven't been portraits
Going to buy one, but got a Panasonic 25mm lens instead. The Olympus and Panasonic primes, when coupled with IBIS, are awesome lenses for night photography.
@@ianmcnamara2100 I have the Panasonic 25mm f1.7 as well.
I have this lease and portraits are the furthest from my mind. It’s a great lens and I’ve just started to use it on my Panasonic G9 and the results have blown me away. I hope you purchased it!
@@loushared6602 I did and loving it. Got a used one from BH Photo Video for good price.
Update. Just purchased my 45mm f/1.8 and I'm already loving it! Thanks for letting us know about it!
Photographers anecdote with this lens:
Me to model: "Let's take close ups with my favourite lens"
Model "Oh, what a tiny cute thing. Is it a toy?"
Model after shoot: "Wow!"
:-)
In my opinion, it still outcompetes the 25mm/1.2 during most situations
Thanks, dear Robin and enjoy your coffee.
Joerg
Thanks Joerg for the coffee and kind words. I guess, we can't compare 25mm vs 45mm, they are both very different lens, they render the background (telephoto compression) very differently!
@@robinwong Thanks, dear Robin.
Indeed, the telecompression is an very important effect. Therefore I'm only switching from 45mm to 25mm if needed, e.g. limited space.
Have a nice day. Cheers , Joerg
I own the Zuiko 17mm, 25mm, and 45mm lenses. They are all excellent lenses, but the 45mm is certainly my favorites. Absolutely beautiful results every time. It is a real bargain and a must-have for any micro four-thirds set up.
Definitely a must have, agree with you!
The 17 wasn’t that sharp overall and the 25 I had wasn’t sharp at the borders. The 45 is perfect though. I have to test the 75 :))) Although for the same price I got a Canon 135 f2 which of course has monster size...
About to get one today.
I love my little 45mm 1.8 its so compact and delivers great image quality
Likewise
I just bought this lens second hand (£140) as my first ever lens because of this review and others like it, to go with my Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7. I'm completely new to photography, so am scratching around the internet looking for online photography courses, and reviews on how to use this lens to its maximum. Thank you Mr Wong. 👍😊
I just bought this lens in mint condition from ebay. It included a clear glass lens protector/filter for %150.
Been testing all day on my venerable OM-D E-M1 camera and I must say it is exceeding my wildest expectations.
Great video Robin! I consistently watch your reviews before buying Any lens.
Bravo!
just boug
This was the 3rd lens I got for mft and I'm absolutely thrilled with it. It's always in reach and has produced some of my favourite images!
I have and use the 45 f1.8 because of your advice! It truly is a great lens. It opened up a whole new world of possibilities for me.
Thanks, and I am glad you love the lens too!
Great content and you always make me happy somehow. You have sold me completely on this lens. Thank you Robin.
I totally agree Robin. This lens is so small and light and the results are amazing. It is so much fun to take pictures with my Pen-F. A realy good combo. At least the price is really good for this lens.
Thanks for your video. Your pictures in this video are very nice by the way!
Thanks Andreas for the kind words. I always emphasize on photos first - for me at least, no photos, no talk! There is no point rambling on about how great the lens is, if I don't have anything to show!
This is my favorite lens ever. Literally every picture i take with it makes every other lens feel underwhelming
Fully agree it was the first prime I bought and I was blown away from the first shots.
Me too!
I’ve had this lens for years and it continues to amaze me! Almost all my MFT lenses are Olympus. My only complaint is the lack of included lens hoods in all but the most expensive Oly lenses, and the fact that the hoods are expensive if you do get them. Great images Robin!
This 45mm F1.8 was one of the reasons y buyed the omd 10 markIII months ago for my family portraits, and even street photography. Its really small and the price ratio is glorious. Still i'm really impressed with the smooth bokeh and sharpnes of this lens. Ty Robin your videos are really great, your passion for photography is really contagious!!
Thanks Jaume, appreciate the kind words, and I am glad you have the Olympus 45mm F1.8 too. Go make more shots with the lens!
@@robinwong Yes! i will do that that 45mm is truly a gem on the system, my next step will be the 25 prime or the 12-40 2.8 pro i cant decide! probably the 12-40 pro if i can purchase one on good state second hand. Thank you Robin!
I bought it during my Japan trip from a second hand store and I love using it especially after kit lens it is a knife sharp 😍
Thanks Robin, beautiful video about the amazing M.Zuiko 45mm f/1.8. I own this lens for years and it never fails in tacking beautiful portraits. Greetings from Germany 📷 👍🤗🙏
I ordered this lens a couple months ago with a $50 discount on the Olympus website. I am in Vietnam, and it was delivered to my dad's place in Vermont. It'll be my present to myself when I get home, once the world becomes sane again. Please world, get sane, so I can use this lens!
I've got this lens mounted now on an original E-M5 (Mark i) body that I purchased just last week(!) for under $140! It's a low cost light weight rig but delivers great images!
Wow, what a bargain, and yes, that is a great combo, small, stealthy and can deliver fantastic results.
Thanks Robin. I bought this second hand today for a cheap price in perfect condition.
Another great video, thank you Robin, I purchased this lens over a year ago and have to say it produces razor sharp images.
Indeed, it does produce really impressive results, something many would not expect such tiny lens to be capable of making.
Great review. For my very light kit, I carry the 45 and the Panny 20 to use on my good old EPL5. Works for most situations I find myself in when mountain biking, ski touring, or just wanting a light kit than with my OMD with Pro lenses. It's hard to beat a such great lens that fits in a shirt pocket!
Hey man, may I ask a question, is there an advantage using ibis even it's brod daylight? Or should I disable it and just use it when shutter needs to be low?
I have the Olympus 17mm, 45mm and 75mm f/1.8 primes which cover most use cases. They are all seriously good lenses, for me though it is the 75mm that really stands out.
Thanks for the video.
One reason I like the Olympus 45mm f/1.8 lens on my micro 4/3 digital camera is that I can use it for test shots for my Leica M6 35mm film rangefinder with 90mm f/2 Leitz lens.
When I bought an olympus 12mm f2.0 and a hood for it, it turned out that the same lens hood fits 45mm 1.8, It looks very nice and gives good results.
It took me a long time to get around to buying this lens, but I finally did a few weeks ago, and I have no regrets. It certainly doesn't disappoint!
Indeed, once you have seen the results, it makes you want to use this lens more!
@@robinwong absolutely! I have rarely taken it off my camera since I got it.
Great video Robin bringing out the Top reasons of this unique lens...and the fact that it was introduced in 2011 and still remains a top choice...and all this for an unbeatable price of USD 299 !!!
indeed, for that price, it brings a lot to the table!
Hi Robin, hope youre well!
Thanks for the video as always. I own the 12-45mm M.Zuiko Pro, which has been a great entry into M43 and digital cameras in general.
However I've found a 45mm f1.8 2nd hand at a good price. I was considering the 17mm as I shoot landscape & street more frequently; but after seeing this video Im going to pick t 45mm up and hopefully that'll sort me out for low light & portrait on my travels!
Hi Robin. This was one of my first Olympus lenses. In pre-OM-D days I intended to work with the 4 f1.8 primes only. The EM-5 and the 12-40 PRO changed all that. I still have the 45, and use it periodically. Thanks for a good review.
Sure, the 12-40mm is a fantastic lens! And if you need a PRO, that is one must have lens.
I really love this lens too. When I'm not underway with the "big" equipment (M1M3 and Pro lenses), I always have the PEN-F with the 17 mm 1.8 attached, the 45 mm 1.8 and the FL-LM3 in my bag. So I can do Landscape, Street and Portrait with minimal gear in a superb quality. :-)
For portrait and street photography, the 45mm is a must have lens!
One of my favorite Olympus lenses.
Mine too
This is the first non-kit Olympus lens I purchased. Not realizing that the lens is often discounted, I paid the full price of $400 for it. I feel it is worth every penny even at full price. That Olympus could make a 90mm equivalent lens with such great performance in such a small package is nothing short of amazing.
Indeed, it showcases the lens expertise and know how of Olympus, they really do know what they are doing
I got it for $199 and couldn't be more pleased.
You’ve inspired me to use that little gem more! I agree that the 45/1.8 is a great lens. I think it’s destined to become a legend.
Yes, please bring the lens out more, it deserves some attention!
I love my 45mm! I use it a lot on my food photography.
me too!
Great lens for food shooting
This was my first lens buy after the ‘kit’ lens and it’s a portrait BEAST! So tiny and light but soooooo capable!
That is exactly my situation. I ordered mine before I saw this video. Not delivered yet but from what I see in comments I think it was a good choice 😊
Just got mine delivered today ☺️
Just 110€ including a lens hood (used, but like new).
Coming from a vintage 50mm 1.9, this tiny thing is a beast for taking pictures of our cats in low light 🤣
Love your energy! never lose that. LETS DO THIS!
Robin,I love your enthusiasm.
Cheers
Hi Robin,
Thanks for the reviews. I really appreciate them. I am a Canon full frame user (amateur), but purchased an used Olympus pen ep7 with a 14-42 lens following a review on zenography TH-cam channel about the pen cameras and I am really impressed with the image quality and the fact I can put it in my pocket. Please keep up your reviews for ordinary non-professional photographers like me. Thank you again.
I recently bought the 45mm 1.8 and the 25mm 1.8. I love the look and overall picture quality of both of those lenses! For street photography the 45mm is a little tight. In crowded places there´s always someone between you and your "target". But for people and portraits in particular, it´s fantastic!
This is the first lens I ever bought for my Olympus cameras. Sharp focus, dreamy bokeh (not too much, not too little). And cheap too!
Yeah, for the price, can't go wrong, it brings a lot to the table!
Great lens! I have a couple of other lenses in my camera bag, but this lens is always the first one I have attached to my camera!
I can say the same!
Just grabbed this for 219$ on mpb love how in just getting into m43 at the right time where all these lens were 4-6 hundred dollars years ago and are now dirt cheap on the used market. Bought a g7 about 2 months ago and have sourced 4 lens for under 1k
I'm convinced. Thank you Robin. I'm going to get one.
Great lens loves the f1.8 lenses, so easy to keep in a pocket just wish the 45mm had the same focus ring like the 17mm and all f1.8 lenses used the same filter thread thought your point 11 would be you have ten for sale on eBay lol. point 12 try the 45mm with the extension tube it's a fantastic macro lens then.
The 45mm was meant to be in a lower tier than the 17mm, hence it has plastic body and no manual focusing clutch. Not sure what happened after that, Olympus just put them all in the same category.
@@robinwong .seems just as sharp,would be fantastic if the new company revised the F1.8 lenses and updated them.
GAS attack- I had to have this lens on my Pen-f! Absolutely no regrets! Paired with the 12mmf/2, the kit is wonderfully sharp & lightweight! 👍
Perfect fit on the PEN-F!
I agree with everything you say in this review! This is indeed a fantastic lens packed into a tiny little package!
Thanks! What a great little lens!
I scored one for $120. It's actually the second prime lens I purchased (found a 30mm macro for $160). I love how versatile it is for what I do with it (family events, snake photos).
What an amazing experience with yo article! Congratulations. Thanks for sharing that story!! Keep up!! Love the videos. And yes, love the look of the 45mm.
Amazing quality and at a reasonable price. Highly recommended.
I love my 45 1.8 M.Zuico lens. My go to lens.
My 1st GO TO lens. I use it 90% of my work.
Maybe not 90% of my work, but 100% of my images with this lens came out great!
I have three best lenses for video -- Tokina 11mm-16mm f2.8 (there is a learning curve for getting to know how to use this lens), Nikkor 35 mm f1.8 on my D3300 and Olympus 45 mm f1.8 on my G85. You are right, this lens is the best to convince clients.
I'm doing my first official wedding gig and the store clerk at B & H photo recommended this lens. I also have a 12-60mm Leica lens so I hope I'm covered as I've run out of budget for more lenses.
Thanks for this reassuring video.
I've just bought this one! My first prime lens ever.
Thanks man! I am going to buy this lens!
Thanks Robin. I found an "open box" lens being offered by a reputable online retailer at a reduced price and just bought it based on this review and a Peter Forsgard review.
Hi Robin, fab video and I agree it is an outstanding portrait lens for the size and money.. great for video too...my own preference for the majority of outdoor portraits is now the Olympus 75mm f1.8 but the 45mm and 25mm are still gems to use when needed...
Luv your passion man....Always good stuff...😎
Thanks for the kind words!
ha, first comment! You always make me want buy more Robin! Bad influence :-) Thanks as always for sharing your knowledge and expertise.
Me too
Well, this is not an expensive lens, so don't feel too guilty buying it!
@@robinwong you ARE a good sales person indeed Robin. I like all your videos and have been following you for a few years now. I especially liked one particular thing you said that was not directly photography related and to which I do not want to attract attention here in this forum as this is out of context. :-)
thanks for sharing. I do love this lens too Greetings from Mexico
I love this lens; however, I'm thinking about selling it and buying the Sigma 56mm F1.4 in its place.
Olympus 45 mm f 1.8 Is fantastic!!
I did a photoshoot in studio last saturday and I am in the middle of processing the photos.
Was very curious about background highlights on few of my lenses with Christmas lights and other shiny decorations. Zooms unfortunately have "onion rings", while M.Zuiko 75mm F1,8 and M.Zuiko 45mm F1.8 came to have the best highlights
I was about to be critical a bit about the sharpness when compared to 25mm F1.4 Summilux, but after closer examination of the photos I retracted that argument. Also at F2,2 and F2,5 were both lenses exceptionally sharp. Given the fact that Summilux is considered to be among the sharpest M43 lenses this is quite surprising find.
Also highlights. Summilux unfortunately has visible aperture at the edges, 45mm F1.8 had perfectly round highlights, both at F2.2 and F2.5 apertures.
One last find... Olympus lenses tend to be slightly more bluish compared to Lumix lenses. Comparing 25mm Summilux and 45mm F1.8 this difference appears to be 350 Kelvin. If you want to match two such lenses, add to Olympus one, or alternatively substract from Lumix.
Thanks Robin, I've had the 45mm 1.8 for about 6 years and I concur with your assessment. While it was my most desired M4/3 lenses has turned out to be one of my least used after going back to Panasonic bodies, largely because of ucorrected chromatic aberration with Panasonic bodies and somewhat, harsh distracting bokeh on complex backgrounds when stopped down a bit from wide open. While your's and other photographer's M.Zuiko 45mm shots are stunning in terms of contrast, color and detail, on the Panasonic bodies, I'm unimpressed when compared to the 42.5mm f/1.7 Panasonic and bigger, heavier and more expensive Leica options.
Thanks sharing the 10 reasons why Olympus M.zuiko 45mm f1.8 is awesomeness lens. Good jobs, Robin. You got 1 like from Singapore
Great video, Robin. I do own the lens and agree it is light, has nice bokeh and excellent image quality. I do find it is prone to hunting in low light or back light situations.
I'd suggest shooting at wide open F1.8, then the hunting is less. Also depends on which camera you are using. If you are using the older Olympus cameras, then yes, the hunting is a real issue. Any newer OM-D cameras (E-M1 Mark II, E-M1X, E-M5 Mark III, etc) will have the ability to take advantage of wider aperture and focus much better in low light.
Awesome I have this lens and dont use it as much as I should. Recently I bought the Panasonic Lumix. G9 II i think this lens will be a perfect partner for it. Cheers John
Beautiful lens. I absolutely love it!
Omg you’re so happy and kind when you’re talking about it 😭
I mainly shoot video and have an M.Zuiko 45mm F1.8, but I haven't mastered it yet.
I would like to consciously use it more.
It is a wonderful lens for video, creating cinematic look!
This lens is always AWESOME for me. Small, cheap and best. I'm addicted to its bokeh.
You can get this lens for used about 160 Euros in Germany. Actually I saw one still with the original plastic covers not removed for 165 Euros in the shop. I have the zuiko 14-150 mm and the Lumix 20mm and all the shots that people like are taken with the Zuiko 45mm f1.8. For Robin the lens is the money maker, I don't make any money with it yet, but it is the lens which makes most people happy with their pictures.
This is amazing! I have a mirrorless camera and got this lens too and I was hoping I can do TH-cam videos for this! I really enjoyed this.
nice video Robin i am thinking of adding this to my E-PL9/EM10 mkII, it will compliment my 14-42mm & 40-150mm.
Three and a half years ago this was the lens that was finally responsible for me selling all my full frame gear and moving to Micro 4/3rds. I handled the lens at a photography show and coundn't believe that it really was the equivalent of a full frame 90mm f1.8, after the big, heavy 85mm and 90mm f1.8 full frame lenses I'd been using. It's now my most used prime lens and second only to the Olympus 12-40mm f2.8, which is the most used lens I have. It's sharp and it's lovely, what more can I say?
A great little lens. My DJI Inspire 2 has a M43 camera and this lens works great on it.
Yeah, it’s a great lens, certainly my favour one, just next to 40150 Pro.
My favourite too!
Excellent review of this great lens greetings from Bogota Colombia.
Sometimes there are lenses that make you wanna switch camera brands. This is one of those lenses. Thank goodness Tamron made the 45 1.8 USD VC lens for Nikon. I feel just a great about my Tamron as you do about this great little lens.
I enjoy my 45mm f1.8 a lot!
Likewise
This lens weather sealed and with a 46 mm filter thread - it would be a dream lens! Well, with this low price, weather sealing is not that much of an issue, because the lens is so cheap. Still, I would pay more and carry (a bit) more weight for the convenience. It might actually come … ;-)
This lens sparked my interest in M43. I bought it used together with a Panasonic GX850, combined 400€. My other cameras didnt leave the draw since. I am so surprised about the quality in this little form factor. Truly amazing technology. Thank you for the vid, great review!
I love this lens! There are three lenses, I‘d never give away! The 300mm f4, the 60mm Macro and the 45 f1.8!
Hi Robin, I'm sure that now you are more famous than Steve Huff and Mike Johnston together (I never heard of them before). Please continue your great job!
It is not a competition! We are all different and we bring different things to the table. Variety is good for content especially these days!
@@robinwong That's what I say too! And thank you, Robin, for your kind words.
I’m just about to move to M4/3 Robin by purchasing EM5 markiii & am finding your videos a great help in my selection of lenses. I’m pretty much settled on the kit lens14-150, +75-300 ( for wildlife ) and either the 30 mm macro or the lens you review here the 45 mm1.8. Iloved your photo examples but would really have appreciated the settings which you normally include. Thanks for great tips & Im delighted you are now an OMD visionary. They would have been mad to let you go. Greetings from a grateful Scot🙏🏻🏴
Here's 2 more to make it a dozen: size and price.
Got the 45/1.8 lens since it was released. Even though my preference is to shoot wider, I always have this with me along with the 20/1.7. Because of this lens, I became the unofficial portrait photographer at the company I used to work at.
Great video Robin. I really love this lens too! I was very fortunate a few years ago to pick up a used OMD EM10 and a 45mm F1.8 for $200 AUD. Lens was in mint condition and decided to sell the EM10 for $200 and keep the 45mm for my EM5. I'm always happy with the results I get and will continue to use it for many years to come :)
I am thinking, this will be my first prime, when I go beyond the kit lens. Great review!
Definitely on my list to purchase! Thanks for this information Robin!