Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III Review

February 14, 2020 | Mark Goldstein | Rating star Rating star Rating star Rating star

Introduction

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is a brand new professional model in Olympus' well-established mirrorless camera line-up, only sitting underneath the much more expensive, much larger flagship E-M1X.

The fully weather-proof EM1 Mark III has a 20.4 megapixel Micro Four Thirds Live MOS sensor, new TruePic IX processor, and an amazing 5-axis in-body image stabilisation system that provides up to an incredible 7.5 steps of compensation.

Other standout features include 18fps burst shooting with continuous AF/AE or 60fps without, Cinema 4K video recording at 30p and 1080p at 120fps, 121-point all-cross-type Dual Phase and Contrast Detection AF system with improved face/eye detection, 2.36m-dot electronic viewfinder, vari-angle LCD touchscreen, dual SD-card slots, and 50 megapixel Handheld High-Res Shot and 80 megapixel Tripod High-Res Shot modes.

The Olympus E-M1 Mark III is available in black priced at £1599 / $1799 body-only in the UK and US, respectively, which is £250 / $200 cheaper than the previous Mark II model was at launch.

Ease of Use

Olympus OM-D E-M1
Front of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III

The EM1 Mark III looks an awfully lot like its 3-year-old predecessor, the Mark II, with most of the improvements being made to the inside of the camera rather than to the outside. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III weighs in at 504g body only and measures 134.1 x 90.9 x 68.9mm, a whole 4g heavier and exactly the same size. You can even use the same vertical grip on both models.

The Olympus E-M1 III sports a slightly bigger hand-grip, though, which makes it slightly easier to get a firm hold on the camera with three fingers whilst operating the shutter button with your right forefinger.

There's also a brand new ISO button on the rear and a multi-selector joystick that makes it much easier to quickly move the AF point using your right-hand thumb whilst holding the camera up to your eye.

The only other notable changes are the menu button being relocated over to the far-left of the viewfinder and a new Exposure Compensation on top in place of the previous Function2 button. Otherwise, the two cameras are nigh-on identical in terms of their control layout.

Just like the original E-M1, which was released way back in 2103, this new Mark III version also boasts a tough dust-, drip- and freeze-proof magnesium alloy body, which together with a similarly weatherproof lens fitted will withstand most things that you care to throw at it.

Olympus OM-D E-M1
Rear of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III

The OMD EM1 III is equipped with exactly the same 20-megapixel Four Thirds sensor as used by the Mark II, which will disappoint those looking for an increase in resolution. Given that the flagship E-M1X uses the same sensor too, and that Panasonic also employ a similar 20 megapixel sensor in their top-of-the-range Lumix-branded Micro Four Thirds cameras, it perhaps shouldn't come as a massive surprise though.

More disappointing is the EM1 III's electronic viewfinder and vari-angle LCD screen combination, disappointing in the sense that they are also exactly the same as on the Mark II. We'd have really expected a significant bump in the specification of both key components, if only to match the flagship E-M1X, which offers the same resolution but better magnification (0.74x on the E-M1 III and 0.83x on the E-M1X). They're not particularly bad, just not as good as on some of the E-M1 III's main rivals, most notably the Lumix G9 which has a much better EVF.

The Olympus EM1 Mark III's further improved 5-axis in-body image stabiliser works in tandem with the in-lens stabilisation system incorporated into certain lenses - such as the the M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm F4.0 IS PRO and M.Zuiko Digital ED 300mm F4.0 IS PRO - to provide a claimed 7.5-stop advantage when shooting hand-held, surpassing any other camera that we've ever tested, including the previous Mark II model. The majority of Four Thirds lenses don't feature sync IS, but the E-M1 III still uses its in-body stabiliation to offer a whopping 7.0 stops of compensation, still surpassing most other cameras.

The Mark III has a brand new image processor, dubbed TruePic IX, which as well as enabling significant improvements to the camera's face and eye tracking algorithm, now being able to track smaller faces and smaller eyes more quickly, also introduces the new Starry Sky AF mode.

As its name suggests, this new mode should hopefully avoid errors that are commonly made when manually focusing on the night sky, with the E-M1 III using luminance information gathered by the sensor instead of relying on its phase detection or contrast AF systemsto achieve accurate focus. Using this mode, you can even dispense with a tripod altogether if you wish, with focusing sensitivity down to -3.5 EV.

Olympus OM-D E-M1
Top of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III

Other auto-focusing improvements include the addition of 9-point and 25-point AF modes, and the ability to choose from all 121 points to setup your own custom AF layouts. Otherwise, the E-M1 III's dual phase- and contrast-based auto-focus system is exactly the same as used on the flagship E-M1X camera.

The Olympus E-M1 III can shoot 18 full-resolution frames per second with continuous autofocus when using the electronic shutter, the same as the E-M1 II, while the speed when using the mechanical shutter is also the same at 15fps. What has been improved is the shutter life, now doubled to 400,000 actuations from the previous model's 200,000.

Additionally, the camera has a Silent mode, in which it uses an electronic shutter capable of high-speed continuous shooting at up to 60fps, although the exposure and the focus are fixed at the first frame.

The OMD EM1 Mark III isn't really that different to its predecessor in terms of video performance. It can record cine-standard 4K videos at 24fps with a bit rate of up to 237Mbps in the DCI 4K mode (4096 x 2160 pixels) or UHD 4K footage at 30fps and a 102Mbps bit-rate. The camera can also record up to 120fps slow-motion video in Full HD 1080p and HD 720p recording is also supported.

It can use its excellent 5-axis sensor-shift image stabiliser which translates into surprisingly smooth hand-held footage, even when using a medium telephoto lens.

Olympus OM-D E-M1
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III In-hand

Manual exposure can be enabled for videos, although you do have to rotate the mode dial to the Movie position to take advantage of this. You can start filming in practically any other shooting mode too, but in that case, videos will always be recorded with auto exposure.

New to the EM1 III is the inclusion of the flat OM-Log 400 profile for for more flexible colour grading in post-production and editing. It also has a dedicated 3.5mm mic jack on the body for better sound recording as well as a headphone jack for monitoring the audio.

The clever High Res Shot shooting mode has been further improved, with the E-M1 III now capable of shooting 50 megapixel images in the Handheld High-Res Shot mode, and 80 megapixels in the Tripod High Res Shot mode. The previous model always required a tripod to be used, which makes the Mark III a lot more versatile in this regard.

Another clever feature that can also be employed handheld is Live ND, which uses a similar method of merging multiple exposures together, but this time to capture images using a slower shutter speed in daylight.

Traditionally you'd need to fit a glass ND filter in front of the lens to achieve this effect, but now it's as simple as selecting the Live ND option and choosing from the 5 levels on offer, running from ND2 (1 step) to ND32 (5 steps).

Olympus OM-D E-M1
Tilting LCD Screen

It's not quite as powerful as fitting something like a Lee Big Stopper 10-step filter, but being able to achieve much longer exposures simply by choosing a menu option whilst hand-holding the camera and even previewing the effect in the viewfinder or LCD screen before capture is extremely liberating.

Note that it doesn't work with flash, though, so you'll still need a glass ND filter to overpower the sun when shooting outdoors.

The supersonic wave filter for dust reduction on the E-M1 III has apparently been upgraded with a brand new coating, making it more effective than the one on the E-M1X, although you'd be hard-pressed to notice any difference as Olympus' system has always worked really well.

The Olympus OMD EM1 Mark III continues to use the same BLH-1 battery as on the previous E-M1 II camera, so you can carry on using all of your old batteries if you upgrade. New to the E-M1 III is the ability to charge it on the go via the USB port and also power it using an external power bank, two features that we're seeing more and more of on recent cameras. It is compatible with the USB PD standard for a maximum power supply of 100W, which can fully charge the battery in two hours, although you can't charge and shoot simultaneously.

There is enough room for dual memory card slots on the E-M1 III, but disappointingly only the top one supports the faster UHS-II standard, which should help the camera keep up with all those high-speed bursts, while the bottom one supports the slower UHS-I standard.

The hand grip and indeed most of the front of the camera is covered in a leatherette-like textured material. Once again there are two buttons next to the lens mount. By default these controls are assigned to one-touch white balance and depth-of-field preview but, like almost everything else on the OM-D E-M1 Mark III, they can be reprogrammed to perform different tasks if you so desire.

Olympus OM-D E-M1
Memory Card Slots

On the top of the camera, to the left of the viewfinder housing (when viewed from above and behind) there is a cluster of controls comprised of two raised buttons and a power switch. Each of the two buttons provides access to two sets of settings.

Press the first one and you can adjust the camera’s drive modes and HDR settings with the rear and front control dials, respectively. Hit the second and you can cycle through the various focus and metering modes offered by the camera. The placement of the on/off switch might well raise a few eyebrows as it means you need to use your left hand to turn on the camera.

Moving over to the other side of the viewfinder hump, we find a traditional mode dial with a not-so-traditional locking pin in the middle. On the Olympus EM1 Mark III, the mode dial locks with one press of the locking pin and unlocks with a second press, which is a clever idea.

The dial itself offers the usual P, A, S and M modes, plus a dedicated Movie mode and separate positions for 4 separate Custom modes for quick access of custom settings banks, or Mysets in Olympus parlance. The Art Filters and Intelligent Auto modes have disappeared altogether from the shooting mode dial.

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III inherits the still innovative 2x2 Dual Control system from its predecessors. This is comprised of two top-mounted control wheels and a function lever that’s pretty easy to reach with your right thumb.

Olympus OM-D E-M1
Battery Compartment

The function lever has two settings. In the first position, moving the control dial on the front of the camera adjusts the aperture while the dial on the back adjusts the shutter speed. On the second setting, the dials change the ISO value and white balance respectively.

You can also configure the switch’s operation too – for example, you can turn it into a handy AF/MF toggle if that makes more sense to you. The remaining controls on the camera’s top plate include the already mentioned shutter release button, plus a dedicated Movie Record button and an Exposure Compensation button.

The rear of the camera is dominated by a large, vari-angle rear touchscreen whichcan be tilted to the side and rotated to the front for easier selfies. This LCD panel has exactly the same resolution, 1,037,000 dots, as its predecessor, and capacitive touchscreen technology.

The Info, Menu, Playback and Delete buttons have all been carried over from the original model, although they have been slightly rearranged. The Fn1 button which was previously on the upper right part of the rear plate has been replaced by the ISO button.There is still an AEL/AFL button encircled by the afore-mentioned function lever and a Display button located to the left of the viewfinder, with the relocated Menu button alongside it. And in addition to the new AF joystick, the old Menu button underneath the 4-way navigation pad is now the Info button.

The Olympus OMD EM1 Mark III makes do without a built-in pop-up flash, and sadly no longer comes bundled with the tiny FL-LM3 flash unit which clips into the external flash hotshoe. Naturally you can also use more powerful system flashes with the E-M1 Mark III – such as the powerful FL-900R, the FL-36R, the FL-600R or the FL-50R – but these are of course sold separately.

Image Quality

All of the sample images in this review were taken using the 20 megapixel Super Fine JPEG setting, which gives an average image size of around 8Mb.

The Olympus OMD EM1 Mark III produced images of excellent quality during the review period. It produces noise-free images at ISO 64 up to 1600, with limited noise starting to appear at ISO 3200.

ISO 6400 exhibits quite visible noise and loss of fine detail, and the fastest settings of ISO 12800 and 25600 are even noisier but still usable for small prints and web use. The corresponding raw files are inevitably more noisy at lower ISOs.

The image stabilisation system works amazingly well for both stills and video, even when hand-holding the camera at very slow shutter speeds.

The High Res Shot mode can create a 50 megapixel JPEG or an 80 megapixel RAW file, and you can now hand-hold the camera and still get sharp results, although it only really works for non-moving subjects.

The various Art Filters and Picture Styles produce special effects that would otherwise require you to spend a lot of time in the digital darkroom.

Noise

There are 10 ISO settings available on the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III. The base sensitivity is ISO 200 but there is an expanded low sensitivity setting equivalent to ISO 64. Here are some 100% crops which show the noise levels for each ISO setting, with JPEG on the left and the RAW equivalent on the right.

JPEG RAW

ISO 64 (100% Crop)

ISO 64 (100% Crop)

iso64.jpg iso100raw.jpg

ISO 200 (100% Crop)

ISO 200 (100% Crop)

iso200.jpg iso200raw.jpg

ISO 400 (100% Crop)

ISO 400 (100% Crop)

iso400.jpg iso400raw.jpg

ISO 800 (100% Crop)

ISO 800 (100% Crop)

iso800.jpg iso800raw.jpg

ISO 1600 (100% Crop)

ISO 1600 (100% Crop)

iso1600.jpg iso1600raw.jpg

ISO 3200 (100% Crop)

ISO 3200 (100% Crop)

iso3200.jpg iso3200raw.jpg

ISO 6400 (100% Crop)

ISO 6400 (100% Crop)

iso6400.jpg iso6400raw.jpg

ISO 12800 (100% Crop)

ISO 12800 (100% Crop)

iso12800.jpg iso12800raw.jpg

ISO 25600 (100% Crop)

ISO 25600 (100% Crop)

iso25600.jpg iso25600raw.jpg

File Quality

The file quality settings available on the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III include Normal, Fine and Superfine for JPEGs, and you can also shoot in Olympus’s proprietary ORF raw file format.

SuperFine (100% Crop) Fine (100% Crop)
quality_superfine.jpg quality_fine.jpg
Normal (100% Crop) RAW (100% Crop)
quality_normal.jpg quality_raw.jpg

Night

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III offers exposure times as long as 60 second in a metered exposure or up to 30 minutes in bulb mode, which is excellent news for anyone seriously interested in night photography.

Live Bulb mode allows you to view the progression of exposure during a bulb exposure in real-time and a live view histogram shows how the exposure is built-up across all points of the image.

The following image was taken handheld at a shutter speed of 1/60 second, aperture of f/2.8 at ISO 3200.

Night

night.jpg

Image Stabilisation

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III comes with a five-axis sensor-shift image stabilisation (IS) system, which allows you to take sharp hand-held photos at slower shutter speeds than with cameras that lack this feature, up to an incredible 7.5 shutter speed steps of correction.

The following 100% crops are taken from images taken with the M.ZUIKO Digital ED 12-100mm 1:4.0 IS PRO lens at a shutter speed of 1/15th of a second, with and without IS. The image stabilisation system also works during video capture, producing remarkably steady hand-held footage most of the time.

Focal Length / Shutter Speed

Off (100% Crop)

On (100% Crop)

12mm / 1/15th Second antishake1.jpg antishake1a.jpg
100mm / 1/15th Second antishake2.jpg antishake2a.jpg

High Resolution Shot

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III can create a 50 megapixel JPEG or an 80 megapixel RAW file in the High Resolution Shot mode, achieved by shifting the sensor in half-pixel steps and capturing eight images over a period of one second.

Olympus have added a new handheld High Resolution Shot mode to the E-M1 Mark III, so you no longer have to mount the camera on a tripod or other stable surface to obtain sharp results.

Off (100% Crop) On (100% Crop)
high_res1.jpg high_res1a.jpg
Off (100% Crop) On (100% Crop)
high_res2.jpg high_res2a.jpg

Picture Modes

Olympus' Picture Modes are essentially pre-set combinations of saturation, contrast and sharpness, except for the i-Enhance mode that aims to optimise each photo individually. You can tailor each Picture Mode to your needs.

i-Enhance

Vivid

picture_modes_01.jpg picture_modes_02.jpg

Natural

Muted

picture_modes_03.jpg picture_modes_04.jpg

Portrait

Monochrome

picture_modes_05.jpg picture_modes_06.jpg

Art Filters

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III offers 16 ‘art filters’, which allow you to quickly apply an artistic effect to a photo before taking it.

Pop Art

Soft Focus

art_filters_01.jpg art_filters_02.jpg

Pale&Light Color

Light Tone

art_filters_03.jpg art_filters_04.jpg

Grainy Film

Pin Hole

art_filters_05.jpg art_filters_06.jpg
Diorama Cross Process
art_filters_07.jpg art_filters_08.jpg
Gentle Sepia Dramatic Tone
art_filters_09.jpg art_filters_10.jpg
Key Line Watercolor
art_filters_11.jpg art_filters_12.jpg
Vintage Partial Color
art_filters_13.jpg art_filters_14.jpg
Bleach Bypass Instant Film
art_filters_15.jpg art_filters_16.jpg

Sample Images

This is a selection of sample images from the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III camera, which were all taken using the 20 megapixel SuperFine JPEG setting. The thumbnails below link to the full-sized versions, which have not been altered in any way.

Sample RAW Images

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III enables users to capture RAW and JPEG format files. We've provided some Olympus RAW (ORF) samples for you to download (thumbnail images shown below are not 100% representative).

Sample Movie & Video

This is a sample movie at the highest quality setting of 3840x2160 pixels at 30 frames per second. Please note that this 15 second movie is 186Mb in size.

Product Images

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark IIII

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark IIII

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark IIII

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark IIII

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark IIII

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark IIII

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark IIII

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark IIII

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark IIII

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark IIII

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark IIII

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark IIII

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark IIII

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark IIII

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark IIII

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark IIII

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark IIII

Conclusion

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is a more refined, more enhanced version of the 3-year-old Mark II camera, inheriting a number of improvements that were first introduced on last year's flagship E-M1X model.

For us, though, it doesn't offer quite enough new or improved features to either persuade E-M1 Mark II owners to upgrade to the latest, greatest version, or to tempt new would-be users to invest in the Olympus system.

Despite a significant reduction in the launch price compared to the Mark II, the new EM1 Mark III faces some stiff competition at this price-point, most notably from the full-frame Sony Alpha A7 III, the APS-C sensor Fujifilm X-T3 (with the X-T4 due very soon) and the MFT Panasonic Lumix G9.

The Olympus EM1 Mark III does have certain key advantages over its main rivals, though, most notably its incredibly effective image stabilisation system, which really has to be experienced to be believed, and its sheer portability. If ever there was a camera that could put tripod manufacturers out of business, this is the one.

The new Starry Sky AF mode, improved Handheld High Res mode and the Live ND feature are all innovative inclusions that you won't find on any other camera, while the new AF joystick and ISO button further refine what was already an intuitive interface.

Unfortunately, those features collectively aren't quite enough in what is a highly competitive market. The 20 megapixel sensor is beginning to lag behind, as are the last-generation EVF and LCD screen that Olympus have stuck with since the Mark II camera, both now looking distinctly out-of-place on what is after all a flagship camera.

The AF system is fast and reliable, although not quite on a par with Sony's implementation in particular, and burst shooting is more than fast enough for most uses, but video recording still seems like something of a secondary consideration, and only having one UHS-II card slot seemingly a cost-cutting measure.

In summary, we applauded the previous Mark II version as a big step forwards for both Olympus and Micro Four Thirds in general, but the new Mark III is a more conservative release that isn't really going to expand the system's appeal beyond Olympus' loyal user-base.

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is still a very good camera, especially if you value portability and the incredible IBIS system, but we're not sure that it offers quite enough to tempt either upgraders or new owners to invest when there are several more enticing options available at a similar price.

4 stars

Ratings (out of 5)
Design 4
Features 4
Ease-of-use 4.5
Image quality 4
Value for money 4

Main Rivals

Listed below are some of the rivals of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III.

Canon EOS M6 Mark II

The Canon EOS M6 Mark II is a new mid-range mirrorless camera with a 32 megapixel APS-C sensor, 4K video recording, 14fps burst shooting, a tilting touchscreen and optional electronic viewfinder. Can it beat the likes of the Sony A6400 and Fujifilm X-T30 cameras? Find out now by reading our Canon EOS M6 Mark II review...

Canon EOS RP

The Canon EOS RP camera follows hot on the heels of last year's EOS R model, offering full-frame mirrorless tech and 4K video recording at an even more affordable price-point than before. Find out just what the cheapest full-frame mirrorless camera on the market is capable of by reading our in-depth Canon EOS RP review, complete with full-size sample JPEG and RAW images, videos and more...

Fujifilm X-Pro3

The latest version of Fujifilm's much-loved rangefinder camera series has just arrived in the form of the X-Pro3, complete with hybrid optical / electronic viewfinder and a radical new hidden LCD screen. Yes, we did say hidden! Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-Pro3 review to find out what this very traditional, yet thoroughly modern camera has to offer you.

Fujifilm X-T3

The Fujifilm X-T3 is the successor to our Compact System Camera of the Year 2016 award winner, the popular X-T2. Can this new model really improve on what was already an outstanding camera? Find out now by diving into our in-depth Fujifilm X-T3 review...

Nikon Z50

Nikon have introduced their first APS-C, cropped-sensor mirrorless camera with the launch of the Z50, accompanied by two kit zoom lenses. Can the Z50 take on the likes of the well established Sony A6000-series and Canon EOS-M range, not to mention Fujifilm with its line-up of excellent APS-C bodies and lenses? Find out now by reading our in-depth Nikon Z50 review.

Nikon Z6

The Nikon Z6 mirrorless camera is the sensible little brother of the flagship Z7 model, offering less megapixels, fewer AF points and faster continuous shooting at a much lower price point. Is this the best balanced mirrorless camera on the market? Find out now by reading our in-depth Nikon Z6 review, complete with full size JPEGs, Raw files and movies...

Panasonic G9

Panasonic have enjoyed a lot of success with the video-centric GH5 camera, and now they've turned their attention to the enthusiast and professional stills photographer with the release of the exciting new G9. Read our in-depth Panasonic G9 review now to find out more...

Panasonic Lumix GH5

The Panasonic Lumix GH5 is one of the most hotly-anticipated cameras of 2017, offering even more video options than its popular predecessor and seriously beefed up photo capabilities. Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix GH5 review complete with with sample photos, test shots, videos and more...

Panasonic Lumix GH5S

The Panasonic Lumix GH5S is a new video-centric mirrorless camera that excels in low-light conditions thanks to it's 10 megapixel sensor, latest Venus processing engine, and innovative Dual Native ISO technology. Check out our Panasonic Lumix GH5S review for our full verdict...

Sony A6400

The Sony A6400 is a new mirrorless camera with an APS-C size sensor and a cutting-edge auto-focusing system. With 24.2 megapixels, 4K movie recording, a touchscreen 180-degree LCD touchscreen, 11fps burst shooting, electronic viewfinder, built-in flash, and Wi-fi / Bluetooth / NFC connectivity, is this the best APS-C camera on the market? Read our Sony Alpha A6400 review to find out...

Sony A6600

The A6600 is the new all-singing, all-dancing flagship camera in Sony's extensive range of APS-C mirrorless cameras, but does it offer enough to out-gun both its main rivals and its cheaper siblings? Find out now by reading our in-depth Sony A6600 review, complete with full-size sample images and videos.

Review Roundup

Reviews of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III from around the web.

engadget.com »

Olympus' latest flagship camera, the O-MD E-M1 Mark III isn't particularly exciting. It is a bit faster than the last model, and has improved and more versatile autofocus. It also features a class-leading 5-axis image stabilization system that makes handheld photography better.
Read the full review »

Specifications

Type

  • Body material

    Magnesium alloy body

  • Lens mount

    Micro Four Thirds

Image Sensor

  • Type

    4/3'' Live MOS sensor

  • Effective pixels

    20.4 Megapixels

  • Filter array

    Primary colour filter (RGB)

  • Aspect ratio & area

    4:3 / 17.3 x 13.0mm

  • Full resolution

    21.8 Megapixels

Engine

  • Type

    TruePic IX

Filter

  • Dust reduction filter

    Supersonic Wave Filter

Viewfinder

  • Type

    Electronical Viewfinder

  • Pixel number

    2360K dots

  • Diopter adjustment

    Equipped -4.0 - +2.0 diopters / built-in type

  • Field of view

    Approx. 100%

  • Magnification

    Max. 1.48x with a 50mm lens set to infinity at -1 dioptre (depending on selected viewfinder style)

  • Eye point

    21mm at -1 dioptre from eyepiece lens

  • Style

    3 styles selectable

  • Displayed information

    • Aperture value
    • Shutter speed
    • AF frame (super impose)
    • AF confirmation mark
    • AF lock
    • Auto bracket
    • Battery check
    • Exposure compensation indicator
    • Exposure compensation value indicator
    • Exposure level indicator
    • Exposure mode
    • Flash
    • FP flash
    • IS activating mode
    • Metering mode
    • Number of storable sequential pictures
    • White balance
    • Level Gauge
    • Highlight & Shadow
    • Live Pre-view function
    • Histogram
  • Brightness adjustment

    Adaptive Brightness Technology / Manual settings: +/- 7 levels

  • Correction of colour temperature

    +/- 7 levels

  • S-OVF

    Expands the Live View dynamic range

  • *Available in the EVF when in P, A, S, M and B modes. Art filter, WB and exposure are not reflected in EVF.

Live View

  • Displayed information

    • Aperture
    • Shutter speed
    • Auto bracket
    • AE lock
    • Focus mode
    • Shooting mode
    • Battery check
    • IS activating mode
    • Face / Eye detection mode
    • Record mode
    • ISO
    • Sequential shooting mode
    • White Balance
    • Metering mode
    • Exposure compensation value
    • AF frame display
    • AF confirmation mark
    • Shooting information
    • Spot metering area
    • Super FP
    • Flash status
    • Touch Panel Condition
    • Focal length
    • Flash mode
    • Histogram
    • Level Gauge
    • Highlight & Shadow
    • Focus peaking
    • Number of storable pictures
    • Custom
    • Face detection
    • Flash intensity
    • WiFi
  • Field of view

    Approx. 100%

  • Magnification levels

    3 / 5 / 7 / 10 / 14x

  • Dynamic range expansion

    When in HDR1 or HDR2

  • Display modes

    • Comparison
    • Grid (4 types)
    • Grid
    • Histogram
    • Level Gauge
    • Magnified View
    • Standard information
    • Off

Image Stabiliser

  • Type

    Sensor shift

  • Modes

    Five-dimensional, vertical or horizontal activation, automatic

  • Effective Compensation Range

    Up to 7.0 EV steps*

  • Up to 7.5 EV steps**

  • Based on CIPA measurement conditions

  • *When using M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO (focal length =40mm (35mm equivalent: 80mm))

  • **When using M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm F4 PRO (focal length =100mm (35mm equivalent: 200mm)), halfway release image stabilization Off, Frame rate: High

  • Live View stabilisation

    Available

Focusing System

  • Method

    TTL phase difference detection system, contrast detection system

  • Focus areas

    121 points / cross-type phase detection AF

  • 121 points / contrast AF

  • All target, single target (normal / small), group target (5-area / 9-area / 25-area), custom target 1-4 (AF area and its increment steps selectable)

  • AF working range

    -6 - 20EV (ISO approx.100, with a f/1.2 lens)

  • AF lock

    Available; Locked by first position of shutter release button in single AF mode, AE/AF lock button (customised)

  • Modes

    • Manual focus
    • Preset MF**
    • Single AF*
    • Continuous AF*
    • AF* Tracking
    • Stacking
    • Bracketing
  • * incl. manual override

  • ** Distance setting values are rough estimates and only AF lenses can be used.

  • AF illuminator

    Equipped

  • Manual focus

    Available; With enlarged focusing area or focus peaking

  • Face Detection extension

    • Eye Detect AF: Off
    • Left side priority
    • Near side priority
    • Right side priority
  • Predictive AF

    Available

  • AF tracking

    Available; Available in continuous AF mode

  • Focus peaking

  • Colour selection

    White, black, red, yellow

  • Intensity

    High / Normal / Low

  • Back light effect

    On / Off

  • Focus Bracketing Mode

  • Number of images

    3 - 999 shots

  • Step size

    10 levels

  • Compatible with: All Micro Four Thirds AF lenses

  • Focus Stacking Mode

  • Technology

    3-15 images are taken at different focus points and automatically composited together into a single image

  • Compatible with: M.Zuiko Digital ED 60mm F2.8 Macro, M.Zuiko Digital ED 30mm F3.5 Macro, M.Zuiko Digital ED 7-14mm F2.8 PRO, M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO, M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm F4 PRO, M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm F4 IS PRO, M.Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm F2.8 PRO, M.Zuiko Digital ED 8mm F1.8 Fisheye PRO, M.Zuiko Digital ED 300mm F4 PRO

  • M.Zuiko Digital 1.4x Teleconverter MC-14, M.Zuiko Digital 2x Teleconverter MC-20

  • Angle of view becomes slightly smaller

  • AF targeting pad

    Available (activate/deactivate with double tap on rear monitor)

Exposure System

  • Modes

    • Programme automatic
    • Aperture priority
    • Shutter priority
    • Manual
    • Bulb
    • Time
    • Movie
    • HDR
    • My Mode
    • Custom shooting
    • Custom 1
    • Custom 2
  • Exposure compensation

    +/- 5 EV (1, 1/2, 1/3 steps)

  • Note: Monitor and EVF displays only up to ±3 EV.

  • Exposure bracketing

    2 / 3 / 5 frames (+/- 1/3, 2/3, 1 EV steps)

  • 7 frames (+/- 1/3, 1/2, 2/3 EV steps)

  • ISO bracketing

    3 frames (1/3, 1/2, 1 EV steps)

  • AE lock

    Available

  • My Mode

    4 settings storable

  • Enhancement function

    Digital Shift (horizontal and vertical compensation can be performed simultaneously)

  • Shadow Adjustment Technology

  • Flicker Scan: Available for M, S and silent mode (can be confirmed in Live View)

  • HDR bracketing

    3 / 5 frames (+/- 2 / 3 EV steps)

  • 7 frames (+/- 2 EV steps)

Multi-Exposure

  • Max. number of frames

    2 frames (shooting)

  • 3 frames (editing)

  • Auto gain control

    Available

  • Frame assistance

    Live View

Light Metering

  • Method

    TTL open aperture light metering

  • Zones

    324 zones Multi-pattern Sensing System

  • Detection range

    -2 - 20 EV (17mm f2.8, ISO 100)

  • Modes

    • ESP light metering
    • Spot metering
    • Centre weighted metering
    • Highlight
    • Shadow

Art Filter

  • Modes

    • Pop Art
    • Soft Focus
    • Pale & Light Colour
    • Light Tone
    • Grainy Film
    • Pin Hole
    • Diorama
    • Cross Process
    • Dramatic Tone
    • Gentle Sepia
    • Key Line
    • Water colour
    • Vintage
    • Partial Colour*
    • Bleach Bypass
  • Variation / Effect

    Available

  • Art Filter bracketing

    Art Filters selectable

Sensitivity

  • Auto

    (customisable, default ISO LOW - 6400)

  • Manual

    ISO LOW - 25600 in 1/3 or 1 EV ISO steps

Shutter

  • Shutter type

    Computerised focal-plane shutter

  • Self timer

    2s / 12s / Custom

  • Durability

    400000 shots

Shutter Speeds

  • Shutter speed range

    1/8000 - 60s (in 1/3, 1/2, 1 EV steps)

  • Bulb mode

    Up to 30 minutes (selectable longest time in the menu, default: 8 minutes)

  • High res shot

  • Shutter type

    Electronic shutter

  • Shutter speed

    1/8000 - 60s

  • Start delay

    0, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 1, 2, 4, 8, 15. 30s

  • Resolution

    JPEG: 10368x7776 / 8160 x 6120 / 5760 x 4320 RAW: 10368 x 7776

  • Equivalent to 80M / 50M / 25M pixel sensor (8 shots combined into a single JPEG using sensor shift)

  • Available in P/A/S/M mode

  • Handheld High res shot

  • Shutter type

    Electronic shutter

  • Shutter speed

    1/8000 - 60s

  • Resolution

    JPEG: 8160 x 6120 / 5760 x 4320 RAW: 8160 x 6120

  • Equivalent to 50M / 25M pixel sensor (8 shots combined into a single JPEG using sensor shift)

  • Available in P/A/S/M mode

  • Flash can not be used

  • Anti shock mode

  • Shutter type

    Electronic first curtain shutter

  • Shutter speed

    1/320* - 60s

  • Start delay

    0, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 1, 2, 4, 8, 15, 30s

  • * For speeds over 1/320 sec., mechanical shutter will automatically be selected.

  • Silent mode

  • Shutter type

    Electronic shutter

  • Shutter speed

    1/32000 - 60s

  • Start delay

    0, 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 1, 2, 4, 8, 15. 30s

  • Flicker Scan

  • Stills

    1/7634 - 1/50s

  • Movies

    1/250 - 1/30s *

  • * Frame rates greater 30fps are limited to their reciprocal value

White Balance

  • AUTO WB system

    Advanced detection system with Live MOS sensor

  • Manual White balance (One-Touch)

    Available

  • White balance bracketing

    3 frames / +/- 2, 4, 6 mired steps

  • One-touch white balance

    4 custom settings can be registered

  • Custom WB

    1 setting can be registered at Kelvin temperature (2000K - 14000K)

  • Preset values

    • Tungsten
    • Flourescent 1
    • Sunlight
    • Flash
    • Overcast
    • Shade
    • Underwater
  • Auto Flash adjustment

    Off / Auto WB / Flash

  • Keep warm colour

    On / Off

Sequence Shooting

  • Speed (H)

    Approx. 15fps

  • Max. number of frames: RAW 101 / JPG (LF): 134

  • Speed (L)

    10fps

  • Max. number of frames: RAW 286 / JPG (LF): Up to card capacity

  • Silent mode

  • Speed (H)

    Approx. 60fps

  • Max. number of frames: RAW 50 / JPG (LF): 50

  • Speed (L)

    Approx. 18fps

  • Max. number of frames: RAW 76 / JPG (LF): 90

  • Pro Capture mode

  • Speed (H)

    Approx. 60fps

  • Speed (L)

    Approx. 18fps

  • Pre-shutter Frames

    0 - 35 frames (recorded by half release prior to full release)

  • Frame count limiter

    1- 99 frames / Off (unlimited frames) (incl. pre-shutter frames)

  • Conditions

    Memory card: TOSHIBA SDHC UHS-II R95 W90 EXCERIA™

  • When using the M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 Pro

  • Maximum sequential shooting speed may be affected by several factors including lens used, brightness, aperture, shutter speed, and ISO setting.

  • When ISO is 8000 or above, 30 fps becomes the maximum sequential shooting speed. The actual shooting speed may become slower than the set shooting speed by a few frames per second. When using ISO Bracketing, performance will be affected at ISO 2000 or above.

Image Processing

  • Colour space

    sRGB / AdobeRGB

  • Sharpness + Contrast

    5 levels

  • Contrast

    5 levels

  • Saturation

    5 levels

  • Black & White filter

    Yellow, Orange, Red, Green

  • Black & White toning

    Sepia, Blue, Purple or Green in Black & White mode

  • Picture mode

  • Gradation

    4 levels (auto, high key, normal, low key)

  • Engine

    TruePic IX

  • Art Filter bracketing

    Available

  • Tele converter effect

    2x

  • Fisheye compensation

    Available when M.Zuiko Digital ED 8mm Fisheye PRO is attached Angle of view adjustable in 3 levels Compensation automatically ON when using Underwater Modes, available (can be confirmed in Live View)

External Flash Control

  • X-sync speed

    1/250s / 1/8000s (Super FP Mode)

  • Type

    TTL AUTO, AUTO, MANUAL, FP TTL AUTO, FP MANUAL

  • Compatible external flash

    FL-14, FL-20, FL-36R, FL-50R, FL-300R, FL-600R, FL-700WR, FL-900R, STF-8

  • Modes

    • Auto
    • Red-eye reduction
    • Slow synchronisation
    • 2nd curtain and slow synchronisation
    • Fill-in for exclusive flash
    • Manual
  • Intensity

    +/- 3 EV (1/3, 1/2, 1 EV steps)

  • Note: Some functions are only available if they are supported by the external flash.

Wireless Flash Control

  • Number of channels

    4 channels

  • Compatible external flash

    FL-36R, FL-50R, FL-300R, FL-600R, FL-700WR, FL-900R, STF-8

  • Control method

    Triggered and controlled by bundled flash

  • Group setting

    4 groups

  • Available when used together with cameras compatible with the Olympus wireless RC flash system.

Monitor

  • Monitor type

    Vari-angle LCD - Touch Panel

  • Monitor size

    7.6cm / 3.0'' (3:2)

  • Resolution

    1037K dots

  • Brightness adjustment

    +/- 7 levels

  • Colour balance

    +/- 7 levels

  • Touch Control fucntions

    • AF area enlargement
    • AF area selection
    • Art Filter
    • Enlargement
    • Enlargement playback
    • Frame forward/backward
    • Live Guide
    • Scene Modes
    • Shooting mode
    • Shutter release
    • Super Control Panel
    • Wifi connection

Level Gauge

  • Detection

    2-axis

  • Display

    Rear display and viewfinder

Super Control Panel

  • Displayed information

    • Battery indicator
    • Record mode
    • Shutter speed
    • Aperture value
    • Exposure compensation indicator
    • ISO
    • AE bracketing
    • AF frame
    • Focus mode
    • AEL notification
    • Face detection
    • Number of storable frames
    • Metering mode
    • Exposure mode
    • Exposure level view
    • Flash compensation value
    • Colour space
    • Gradation
    • Colour saturation compensation value
    • Sharpness compensation value
    • Contrast compensation value
    • White balance
    • White balance compensation value
    • Noise reduction
    • Flash mode
    • Drive mode
    • Internal temperature warning
    • Histogram

Recording Formats

  • RAW

    12bit

  • RAW & JPEG

    Applied parallel recording

  • JPEG

    Applied

  • Aspect ratio

    4:3 / 3:2 / 16:9 / 6:6 / 3:4

Image Size

  • RAW

    5184 x 3888 compressed

  • 5184 x 3888 Fine (compression: 1/4)

Still Image Recording

  • EXIF

    2.31

  • DCF

    Applied

  • RAW

    Applied

  • Dual SD card settings

    Standard, Auto Switch, Dual Independent, Dual Same

  • When two cards are inserted, card to be saved on to or to be viewed can be designated.

Movie Recording System

  • Recording format

    MOV(MPEG-4AVC/H.264)

  • Picture mode

    Flat, OM-Log400 (View assist compatible)

  • Time code

    Rec run / Free run

  • Drop frame / Non-drop frame

  • Image Stabilisation Mode

    Applied Sensor shift

  • M-IS1 (Image sensor shift and electronic image stabilizer with multi motion IS)

  • M-IS2 (Image sensor shift with multi motion IS)

  • 4K Movie quality

    4096 x 2160 (C4K) / 24p / IPB (approx. 237 Mbps)

  • 3840 x 2160 (4K) / 30p, 25p, 24p / IPB (approx. 102 Mbps)

  • HD Movie quality

    Full HD 1920 x 1080 (16:9) / 30p, 25p, 24p / ALL-I (A-I), IPB (SF, F, N) (MOV)

  • Full HD 1920 x 1080 (16:9) / 60p, 50p / IPB (SF, F, N) (MOV)

  • HD 1280 x 720 (16:9) / 60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, 24p / ALL-I (A-I), IPB (SF, F, N)

  • ALL-I: ~ 202 Mbps

  • FullHD IPB (SF: ~52Mbps, F: ~30Mbps)

  • HD IPB (SF: ~26Mbps, F: ~14Mbps, N: ~10Mbps)

  • HD 1280 x 720 (16:9) / 30p

  • Movie quality

    640 x 480 / 30p (AVI Motion JPEG®)

  • Maximum Recording Time

    29min (MOV)

  • Max. file size

    4GB (AVCHD)

  • Exposure Modes

    • Aperture priority
    • Manual
    • Programme automatic
    • Shutter priority
  • * Frame rate may drop when using certain art filter

  • Class 10 or higher SD card is recommended for movie shooting

  • UHS-II or UHS-I U3 card is recommended for ALL-I shooting

Movie Specialties

  • High-Speed Recording

    1920x1080 (MOV) / 120fps

  • Time lapse

    4k, 1080p, 720p (AVI Motion JPEG®)

  • Fast motion

    Available

  • Slow motion

    Available

  • Movie effects

  • Art Filter

    • Cross Process
    • Diorama
    • Dramatic Tone
    • Gentle Sepia
    • Grainy Film
    • Key Line
    • Light Tone
    • Pale & Light Colour
    • Pin Hole
    • Pop Art
    • Soft Focus
    • Vintage
    • Partial Colour*
    • Bleach Bypass
  • * 18 colours selectable

  • Frame rate limited to 30fps or lower

  • Flicker Scan

    Available in M mode (can be confirmed in Live View)

  • HDMI Live View

  • Monitor mode

    Video signal and info display is processed

  • While recording, footage is simultaneously displayed on the HDMI monitor and on the camera, but the info display is shown only on either one of the two.

  • While playing movies, footage is simultaneously displayed on the HDMI monitor (normal size) and on the camera (normal size or enlarged).

  • Record mode

    Only video signal is processed

  • Movie quality is set to YCbCr 4:2:2 (8 bit), frame rate follows movie setting (24p, 30p and 60p settings are not recommended.), and sound will be recorded.

Sound Recording System

  • Internal microphone

    Stereo

  • Recording format

    High quality sound recording (Stereo linear PCM/24-bit, Sampling frequency 96kHz)

  • Image footage

    30s

  • Speaker

    Equipped

  • Microphone functions

    • Wind Noise Reduction
    • Recording Volume
    • Volume limiter
    • Audio Dubbing
  • Linking Olympus PCM Recorders

  • Functions

    Slate Tone / Synchronised Audio Rec-Movie Rec

  • Compatible with: LS-100, LS-P4

View Images

  • Modes

    • Single
    • Index
    • Calendar
    • Zoom
    • Movie
    • Slide show
    • Light box
  • Auto rotation

    Available

  • Histogram in playback mode

    Available

  • Shooting information

    Off / On

  • Highlight/Shadow point warning

    Available

Erase / Protect / Copy Function

  • Erase modes

    Single, All, Selected

  • Image protect mode

    Single frame, Selected frames, All Frames, Release protect (Single/All selected)

Image Editing

  • Editing functions

    • RAW data edit
    • Red-eye reduction
    • Sepia
    • Black & White
    • Resize
    • Correction of saturation
    • Correction of brightness
    • Correction of colour balance
    • Shadow Adjustment
    • Trimming
    • e-Portrait
    • Aspect ratio

Menu

  • Menu languages in camera

    English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Czech, Dutch, Danish, Polish, Portuguese, Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish, Croatian, Slovenian, Hungarian, Greek, Slovak, Turkish, Latvian, Estonian, Lithuanian, Ukrainian, Serbian

Customisation Options

  • Fn Button

    Equipped

  • My Mode

    4 settings storable (Can be set to mode dial.)

  • Factory reset

    Full / Basic

  • Programmable button

    Equipped

Interface

  • Media

    SD Memory Card (SDHC, SDXC, UHS-I, UHS-II compatible) Class 10 or higher SD card is recommended for movie shooting UHS-II or UHS-I U3 card is recommended for 4K, C4K, ALL-I shooting.

  • HDMI™

    Applied Micro connector (Type D) *

  • USB 3

    Type C

  • Wireless connectivity

    • WiFi
    • Bluetooth®
  • * "HDMI", the HDMI logo and "High-Definition Multimedia Interface" are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC.

  • Tethered control

    USB cable (camera operation by both PC or camera controls)

  • WiFi (transfer of recorded images to PC via access point, 5GHz and 2.4GHz available)

  • Microphone jack

    3.5 ø mm mini-jack

  • Earphone jack

    3.5 ø mm mini-jack

  • Synchro socket

    Equipped

Wi-Fi Functions

  • Easy Connection

    QR code setting

  • Wireless Shooting

    • Live View
    • Power off
    • Rec View
    • Self timer
    • Touch AF & Shutter
    • P/A/S/M exposure modes
    • Bulb mode
    • Zoom
    • Movie recording
    • Live Composite
    • Short movie

Power Supply

  • Battery

    BLH-1 Lithium-Ion Battery

  • Sleep mode

    1, 3, 5min. and off selectable.

  • DC-input

    AC-5

  • Internal Charging

    USB (Camera must be switched off)

  • USB charging

    Performance varies depending on different USB devices

  • USB bus power

    USB PD bus power can be used (PD compliant camera: Rev 3.0 Ver 1.0a)

  • Battery life

  • Image shooting

    420 shots (using BLH-1 and Toshiba SDHC UHS-I Card Exceria with IS on, with no flashes attached , based on CIPA test standards) 900 shots (using quick sleep mode, under Olympus testing conditions based on CIPA test standards)

  • Movie recording

    85min (standard JEITA conditions) 140min (when zoom and other operational functions are not used)

  • Note: Values are approximate.

Environment

  • Temperature

    -10 - 40°C Operating temperature / -20 - 60°C storage temperature

  • Humidity

    30 - 90% operation humidity / 10 - 90% storage humidity

Dimensions

  • Width

    134.1mm

  • Height

    90.9mm

  • Depth

    68.9mm

  • Weight

    580g (including battery and memory card)

  • 504g (body only)

Exterior

  • Available Colours

    Black

News

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is a new professional mirrorless camera with an exceptionally compact and lightweight design that's designed for outstanding mobility.

Coming across like a mini E-M1X, the E-M1 Mark III features a 20.4 Megapixel Live MOS sensor, the world’s best image stabilization system with 7.5 shutter speed steps of compensation, a new OLED viewfinder, the very latest Truepic IX processor, 50 megapixel Handheld High Res Shot mode and 80 Megapixel Tripod High Res Shot function, a Live ND without a filter, weather-sealed magnesium alloy body, 121-point all cross-type On-chip Phase Detection AF sensor, 18 fps high-speed sequential shooting with AF/AE tracking, and Cinema 4K video recording.

The Olympus EM1 Mark III will be available from late February 2020 in black priced at £1,599.99 body only.

Different kit versions are also available, with the M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40 F2.8 PRO lens priced at £2,199.99 or with the M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100 F4.0 IS PRO lens priced at £2,499.99.

Olympus UK Press Release

Olympus launch new professional camera with exceptionally compact and lightweight design for stunning image quality. 

With the new OM-D E-M1 Mark III, pro photographers will experience virtually no limits in any shooting situation

London, 12 February 2020 – Olympus announces a new professional camera built for outstanding mobility: The OM-D E-M1 Mark III. 

The latest OM-D model features the world’s best image stabilization system with 7.5 shutter speed steps of compensation, a new image processor (TruePic IX), highly precise and fast autofocus capabilities as well as various unique shooting features.

With its compact and lightweight design, the E-M1 Mark III promotes agile shooting without compromising high-resolution quality. In combination with the extensive line-up of high-quality M.Zuiko lenses, this system supports photographers to achieve their creative vision.

Benefit from a pre order offer whereby all orders placed by 29 February 2020 will receive a complimentary copy of Capture One Pro 20, while stocks last. Capture One is widely regarded by top pros as delivering high quality output from Olympus RAW files.    

Visit enjoy.photo for further details. 

The OM-D E-M1 Mark III will be available from late February in black as body only at RRP7 of £1,599.99 and in different kit versions with the M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40 F2.8 PRO lens at RRP7 of £2,199.99 or with the M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100 F4.0 IS PRO lens at RRP7 of £2,499.99.

At up to half the size and weight of other interchangeable lens systems, Olympus’ biggest advantage is amazing mobility thanks to their compact, lightweight camera system and lenses.

High image quality fostered by the world’s best image stabilization and a new image processor in a compact body

Being exceptionally compact and lightweight, the overall E-M1 Mark III system (including any M.Zuiko lens) maintains superb mobility while offering high image quality and performance.

When synchronizing the in-lens image stabilization of supported lenses  with the in-body 5-axis image stabilization, the E-M1 Mark III achieves the world’s best stabilization performance of 7.5 shutter speed steps of compensation with 5-axis sync IS. This level of stabilization enables shooting in dark locations and during super-telephoto photography without a tripod, opening up new possibilities for photographers and filmmakers. Without sync IS, the in-body image stabilization ensures image stabilization with any attached Micro Four Thirds lens of up to 7.0 shutter speed steps compensation .

In combination with the new image processing engine TruePic IX, a 20.4 Megapixel Live MOS sensor, and an extensive line-up of high-resolution M.Zuiko lenses, the 5-axis IS ensures minimal noise even at high-sensitivity settings and top-class image quality with minimal distortion up to the edges of the shot.

For users in need of higher resolutions, the 50MP Handheld High Res Shot feature makes it possible to capture approximately 50 Megapixel high-resolution images without using a tripod. The Tripod High Res Shot function allows for recording ultra high-resolution (approx. 80 Megapixel equivalent) RAW and JPEG images.

Live ND, which was very popular on the OM-D E-M1X, is also included in this model. Users can select the effect level from ND2 (one step) to ND32 (5 steps), and check the slow shutter effects in the viewfinder before capturing.

Weather-sealing and acclaimed Olympus technologies ensure absolute reliability

The rugged magnesium alloy body of the OM-D E-M1 Mark III features Olympus’ acclaimed dust-, splash- and freezeproof design to allow for shooting in any location and environment.

The lithium-ion battery BLH-1 can be fully charged in as little as two hours when installed in the camera and attached to a power source via USB . The E-M1 Mark III is compatible with the USB PD (USB Power Delivery) standard to run the camera with energy supply from an external power bank, making it possible to shoot for long periods of time – especially convenient for astrophotography or photography in cold environments.

With Olympus’ advanced SSWF (Super Sonic Wave Filter) technology (which vibrates the image sensor filter with an acceleration of several thousand G  30,000 times per second to powerfully shake off dust and dirt) and a new sensor coating introduced with the OM-D E-M1X, dirt cannot stick to the sensor, reducing spots in images to 1/10th of that in conventional models. The high-durability shutter unit in the E-M1 Mark III clears 400,000 operation tests  and therefore offers a high level of reliability.

High-speed, high-precision autofocus capabilities with innovative Starry Sky AF and Advanced Face Priority / Eye Priority AF

The OM-D E-M1 Mark III is equipped with a 121-point all cross-type On-chip Phase Detection AF sensor for focusing on various areas of the screen. It offers 75% vertical coverage and 80% horizontal coverage of the screen for a wide focusing area. Paired with an advanced AF algorithm, this feature can continually focus on fast-moving subjects with a high degree of precision. Unlike DSLR cameras, there is no degradation in AF precision when using a fast lens. The E-M1 Mark III offers high-precision focusing that can sufficiently bring out the capabilities even of large-diameter lenses such as those with a maximum aperture of f1.2.

AF/AE tracking is possible at maximum 18 fps high-speed sequential shooting while maintaining the full pixel count of 20.4 Megapixels. The subject can also be checked in the viewfinder during high-speed sequential shooting for accurate tracking.

A multi selector (as introduced with the E-M1X) makes it possible to quickly shift AF areas with your thumb while looking through the viewfinder. Because users can move the AF areas with the multi selector during sequential shooting, it is possible to accurately focus even on subjects that move erratically, as e.g. often found in wildlife photography. The AF target loop setting is also added, which, based on user selection, either stops the AF target at the edge of the screen or moves it to the opposite edge.

Face Priority / Eye Priority AF, which automatically detects and focuses on people’s faces and eyes, is now more advanced. The new image processor TruePic IX features higher processing capabilities and improved AF algorithms to better detect small faces and eyes, whilst keeping stable focusing on a subject even in situations where face detection was difficult in the past (such as e.g. focusing on the sides of faces). It is now also possible to use either the buttons or touch operations to select faces when shooting still images or videos, and detection on or off can be changed with the touch of a single button. Along with versatile video functions, this feature makes the E-M1 Mark III a great tool for vloggers.

Starry Sky AF, which is new for the OM-D E-M1 Mark III, is a feature that will revolutionize the world of astrophotography. In the past, photographers have traditionally relied on manual focusing. A new algorithm was developed to enable accurate focusing even on the tiniest stars shining in the night sky, enabling ultra high-precision autofocusing. One of two modes in Starry Sky AF is the Speed Priority mode (default setting), which prioritizes focusing speed and complete AF operations in a short period of time. Thanks to the powerful image stabilization, this feature makes handheld astrophotography possible using a wide angle lens. The second mode Accuracy Priority uses a fine-tuned focus scan and is effective for shooting specific stars with telephoto lenses.

Equipped with versatile shooting features such as Pro Capture and handheld 4K video fueling your creativity

Pro Capture mode makes it possible to capture scenes that are difficult to time for the photographer, such as a bird taking flight. Pro Capture starts shooting the moment the shutter release button is pressed down halfway, with a buffer that can be set to capture up to 35 frames in RAW / full resolution. The moment the button is pressed down fully, the frames are available to select from retroactively on top of the images recorded while pressing the button.

The OM-D E-M1 Mark III is equipped with Live Composite, which overlaps multiple shots recorded at the same shutter speed and composites only the sections that are brighter for capturing light trails. This feature helps prevent the common phenomenon of images that are too bright when shooting long exposures. Users can check the progress of light trails in real-time using Live View. With B mode added to the shooting mode dial, Live Composite, Live Bulb, and Live Time are now easier to access and configure.

The E-M1 Mark III features an IS mode specifically designed for video recording. Electronic stabilization combined with in-body 5-axis stabilization delivers powerful image stabilization particularly useful for videographers. This provides a high level of performance for handheld video content creation without using a tripod or other stabilizing device, even when shooting in high-resolution formats, which are susceptible to the effects of camera shake, such as 4K or Cinema 4K (C4K).

This model supports OM-Log400 shooting, which enables shooting without loss of details in shadows and highlights, along with color grading for a high degree of freedom over images. In order to make Live View images more visible, a View Assist function is available, which converts the color gamut to Full HD standard BT.709 equivalent for display.

Pairing the high-res Olympus audio recorder LS-P4 with an external mic/recorder enables more versatile recording of high-quality audio for videos. This setup supports high-quality sound recording for video production, such as placing the LS-P4 near the subject, or switching the mic direction and zooming in on the sound source.

With the new firmware Version 1.10 for the LS-P4, being released at the same time as the OM-D E-M1 Mark III, Slate Tone function, which is useful for editing sound files and Test Tone will also support adjusting the recording level. 

Olympus applications and software for more convenient shooting and perfect data management

The OI.Share smartphone app can be used to connect to the camera via Wi-Fi, import shooting data to a smartphone, and to use the smartphone for remote camera operation. OI.Share can now also be used to update the camera firmware and backup and restore camera settings for the OM-D E-M1 Mark III.

Olympus Workspace can handle professional tasks such as RAW processing and image editing, along with offering a great deal of freedom over screen layout, etc. Connect a computer to the OM-D E-M1 Mark III via USB to enable high-speed RAW processing with Olympus Workspace using the new image processor TruePic IX. Clarity and Dehaze editing filters are included for a greater range of expression in astrophotography, etc.

By using Olympus Workspace Version 1.3, being released at the same time as the OM-D E-M1 Mark III, it makes it easy to replace the audio files of the recorded video to High res sound recorded by using Slate Tone on the LS-P4 / LS-100 while recording video. 

This control software for computers meets the demands of studio photography. When using the software, live shooting results can be imported via Wi-Fi without using a USB connection, providing powerful support for the workflow of studio shooting. It supports high-speed 5 GHz band communication.

Availability & Pricing

Benefit from a pre order offer whereby all orders placed by 29 February 2020 will receive a complimentary copy of Capture One Pro 20, while stocks last. Capture One is widely regarded by top pros as delivering high quality output from Olympus RAW files. Visit enjoy.photo for further details. 

The OM-D E-M1 Mark III will be available from late February in black as body only at RRP of £1,599.99 and in different kit versions with the M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40 F2.8 PRO lens at RRP7 of £2,199.99 or with the M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100 F4.0 IS PRO lens at RRP7 of £2,499.99.

The predecessor model E-M1 Mark II will be sold in parallel at new RRPs7 of £1,299.99 (body only) and £1,999.99 for the ED 12-40 F2.8 PRO lens kit, the double zoom kit will be £2,999.99.

Like every Olympus camera and lens, the E-M1 Mark III comes with a free six-month warranty extension  when registered via the MyOlympus platform at http://my.olympus.eu 

Selected accessories (separately available)

The new OM-D E-M1 Mark III is fully compatible with Olympus’ extensive range of Micro Four Thirds lenses and accessories, including tailor-made camera bags, electronic flashes, audio recorders and microphones as well as the free image editing and workflow software Olympus Workspace and smartphone app OI.Share.

Weather-sealed power battery holder HLD-9

The power battery holder HLD-9 features a dust-, splash- and freezeproof design that delivers the same controls whether held vertically or horizontally. Attach the HLD-9 when shooting scenes with frequent changes between vertical and horizontal positions, or when you need to capture a lot of shots, or remove it for greater mobility. When using one Lithium-ion Battery BLH-1 in the camera and one in the HLD-9, together, up to 840 shots8 can be recorded.

Shock Mount Adapter SM2

The new shock mount adapter SM2 is an adapter designed for absorbing camera noise while the LS-P4 is attached to the camera hot shoe. It prevents vibration and operational noise from the camera, making video shooting with higher quality audio possible.

Audio Cable, KA335

The new audio cable KA335 is a high quality cable designed for connecting the camera and recorder. An L-shaped plug and curled cord provides easy handling when connecting to the OM-D E-M1 Mark III or other compatible camera models.

More information at www.olympus.co.uk/accessories

Product specifications are subject to change without notice. Please check the Olympus website at www.olympus.co.uk for the latest specifications.

Image Gallery

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First Impressions

Photography Blog attended the UK launch of the new Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III mirrorless camera at Kew Gardens in London.

Find out what we thought of Olympus's brand new camera by reading our detailed first impressions...

Pricing

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III will go on sale in late February 2020 priced at £1,599.99 body only. Various lens kits will also be available at launch, depending on your geographical location.

Key Specifications

  • 20.4 megapixel Micro Four Thirds Live MOS sensor
  • New TruePic IX processor
  • Weather-sealed
  • 5-axis in-body image stabilisation, up to 7.5 steps compensation
  • 121-point all-cross-type Dual Phase and Contrast Detection AF system
  • 18fps burst shooting with continuous AF/AE
  • Cinema 4K video recording at 30p, 1080p at 120fps
  • 50 megapixel Handheld High-Res Shot mode
  • 80 megapixel Tripod High Res Shot mode
  • Live Composite,now up to 6 hours duration
  • Pro Capture
  • Focus Stacking/Bracketing
  • Live ND

Target Audience

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III

The OM-D E-M1 Mark III is a smaller, cheaper alternative to the flagship E-M1X model, offering many of the same features at a lower price-point in a much more compact, lighter body.

Size and Weight

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III

Weighing just 504g and measuring 134.1mm x 90.9mm x 68.9mm, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III has a weather-proof magnesium alloy body ensuring dust-, splash- and freeze- proofness.

Controls

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III

The control layout of the new E-M1 Mark III very closely resembles that of its predecessor, the E-M1 Mark II.

It has a slightly bigger grip, a new ISO button, the menu button has been relocated, and there's a welcome addition of a multi-selector joystick for quickly shifting AF area using your right-hand thumb.

Sensor

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III uses exactly the same 20.4 megapixel Live MOS sensor found in the E-M1X camera, but benefits from the brand new Truepix IX processor. Consequently the still image quality may actually prove to be slightly better on the E-M1 III than on Olympus' flagship camera.

The supersonic wave filter on the E-M1 III has been upgraded with a brand new coating, making it more effective than the one on the E-M1X.

Video Recording

In addition to stills, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is quite a capable video camera too, offering Cine 4K recording at 30/25/24p, Full HD 120p slow-motion and the OM-Log400 profile, and it also has a dedicated 3.5mm mic jack on the body for better sound recording as well as a headphone jack for monitoring the audio.

Image Stabilisation

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III has a brand new in-body stabilisation system that now offers an incredible 7.5 EV steps of compensation when paired with the M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm F4.0 IS PRO or M.Zuiko Digital ED 300mm F4.0 IS PRO lenses, claimed to be the World’s best image stabilization performance. Without sync IS, the in-body image stabilization still offers an amazing 7.0 shutter speed steps of compensation with any lens.

LCD Screen

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III has a versatile vari-angle LCD screen that can be tilted out to the side and swivelled to the front for easier selfies or vlogging.

Viewfinder

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III has a bright and colourful OLED viewfinder, sacrificing out-and-out accuracy for a more pleasing display.

Auto-focusing

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III has a dual phase- and contrast-based auto-focus system with 121 points for both - in fact, it's exactly the same system as used on the flagship E-M1X camera.

The phase detect points are all cross type, there are new 9-point and 25-point AF modes, and you can now also choose from all 121 points to setup your own custom AF layouts.

There's also a brand new AF mode called Starry Sky AF, which should hopefully avoid errors when manually focusing.

Burst Shooting

An impressively fast 18fps high-speed sequential shooting with full time AF/AE tracking is offered by the E-M1 Mark III, the same as the E-M1X.

This new model also has the excellent Pro Capture mode, which saves 35 frames before you actually pressed the shutter and 120 frames after, helping to ensure that you don't miss that vital moment.

Shutter Life

The E-M1 III is officially rated for 400,000 shots, the same as the E-M1X.

Battery

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III uses the same BLH-1 as on the previous E-M1 II camera, so you won't have to sell all of your old batteries if you upgrade to this new model.

You can also charge the camera on the go via the USB port, a great new feature that is appearing in more and more cameras (and rightly so).

Memory Cards

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III

Despite the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III's compact size, there is still enough room for dual memory card slots.

The top slot supports UHS-II, which should help the camera keep up with all those high-speed bursts, while the bottom one only supports the slower UHS-I standard.

Weather Proofing

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is fully weatherproof to the official IPX1 rating thanks to some clever dust-, splash- and freeze-proof sealing.

Image Quality

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III

You can see an extensive gallery of Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III sample images and videos here.

Early Verdict

The new OM-D E-M1 Mark III is the camera that Olympus should really have released last year, before the technically impressive but rather niche E-M1X sports model.

It comes across very much like a mini-E-M1X, so much so that adding the HLD-9 power grip will provide most of the functionality and battery life of Olympus' flagship camera in a much smaller, lighter and cheaper body.

The E-M1 Mark II proved to be a very popular camera for Olympus, and we can't see any reason why the new Mark III version won't emulate its predecessor.

Until we get one in for a full review, why don't you share your thoughts on the new Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III by leaving a comment below?

Would you buy one? What do you like and dislike? Share your opinion now!

Hands On

Want to see exactly what the new Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera looks like in the flesh?

Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III camera, including a side-by-side comparison with the previous E-M1 Mark II and the E-M1X cameras.

A hands-on gallery of photos of the Olympus EM1 Mark III mirrorless camera.

Image Gallery

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Preview Images

Ahead of our full review, here are some sample JPEG and Raw images taken with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III mirrorless camera. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is a new top-of-the-range mirrorless camera that features a 20 megapixel sensor, 5-axis image stabilization and 4K video recording.

A gallery of full-size sample images taken with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III mirrorless camera.

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III Sample Images

Sample RAW Images

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III enables users to capture RAW and JPEG format files. We've provided some Olympus RAW (ORF) samples for you to download (thumbnail images shown below are not 100% representative).

Sample Movie & Video

This is a sample movie at the highest quality setting of 3840x2160 pixels at 30 frames per second. Please note that this 15 second movie is 186Mb in size.

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