Today OM System introduces us to the OM-1 Mark II, a camera that links the connection between nature and photography.
The first camera of its kind to introduce Live Graduated neutral density filters, up to ND 128 built directly into the system, will be available in late February 2024, proving once again that OM's mission is to support nature enthusiasts with the OM-1 Mark II. The combination of a lightweight camera body that is dust, splash, and freezeproof with AI Subject Detection; Pro Capture mode of up to 120 FPS; and in-camera live composite and focus staking modes makes for an exceptional camera.
Blending the four elements of nature has been the heart and soul of the OM-1 series of mirrorless cameras since releasing the OM System OM-1 in early 2022. The Mark II includes features nature enthusiasts loved from the earlier system but comes in a lighter camera body at just over a pound in a rugged weather-resistant camera body.
Accompanying the OM-1 Mark II announcement, OM System also introduced the new super-telephoto M.Zuiko 150-600 mm F5.0-6.3 IS lens. This lens provides the ability to capture images at the 35mm AOV equivalent of 1200mm. The lens will take the 2x teleconverter extending it to 2400mm. The lightweight M.Zuiko 9-18mm F4.0-5.6 II lens had a design makeover and will also be offered at the end of February 2024.
The Samy’s Camera team had the opportunity to preview the OM-1 Mark II and set out to explore Southern California’s wildlife to experience how the new camera performed. As our team packed, we were pleased with how small and lightweight the OM-1 Mark II and M.Zuiko lenses were.
The ease of shooting with the OM-1 Mark II was quickly felt with the new built-in neutral density filters; we didn’t need to pack any external filters for long exposure shots or other situations where we wanted to maximize our artistic vision out in the field.
Preparing for a shooting session the next day, we decided to week out So Cal's favorite and elusive feathered friends. We appreciated knowing that the OM-1 Mark II was rated at splashproof IP53-class as we climbed through dirt trails, rocks, and water to capture the optimal images of waterfowl like the ones seen below of the Black-Necked Stilts.
The Micro Four-thirds Mark II sensor size allowed for optimal image quality, low light performance, and better dynamic range while we were positioning our shots of Great Horned Owls and Peregrine Falcons. Additionally, the OM-1 Mark II features up to 8.5 steps 3 of 5-axis-in-body stabilization, a 20.4 Megapixel stacked BSI Live MOS sensor, and blackout-free High-Speed Sequential Shooting.
The OM System's mission statement explains that they are passionate about the boundless beauty of nature and the endless inspiration it provides for photographers. OM is living up to this mission by building cameras like the OM-1 Mark II designed to withstand the most extreme weather circumstances and enabling photographers to capture those special moments of nature with forward-thinking, built-in capabilities. The OM System OM-1 Mark II will be a great option for the outdoor photographer and nature enthusiast who encounters everything from extreme weather to rugged terrain.
