This morning, Olympus announced the release of its latest Micro Four Thirds camera: the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV. The release comes a few weeks after the announcement of the carveout of Olympus’s camera division. While that news left photographers with questions, we spoke with Aki Murata, President, Consumer Products Group, just last month to get insights into the future of the brand. And today’s release shows one thing is certain — Olympus continues to develop impressively powerful imaging tools.
This new addition features a new sensor for the E-M10 series, as well as USB charging capabilities, and 4.5 stops of in-body image stabilization. In addition to the E-M10, Olympus announced the release of an all new super telephoto lens: the M. Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f5.0-6.3 IS.
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV ()
Olympus is continuing with the classic body style for this updated version, while adding plenty of new pieces of technology to make the camera more enticing to photographers looking to upgrade.
My favorite new piece for this body is the 20.3 MP sensor. This is the same sensor Olympus has been putting into all of its new models, but this is easily the most affordable version with this particular sensor. This is huge for photographers on a smaller budget who are looking for professional-level quality in their photos. This model continues using the TruePic VIII Processor, but the shutter speed has significantly improved to 15fps in S-AF or 6.3fps in C-AF (compared to 8.6fps and 4.8fps, respectively on the Mark III). The E-M10 Mark IV also features in-body image stabilization, which will be good for 4.5 stops (an improvement on the 4 stops of its predecessor).
Olympus has also added USB charging capabilities. For me, this is huge because I don’t usually have time to charge each individual battery. USB charging allows you to directly charge the camera from a car, laptop, or external battery. This has become an essential perk of the OM-D line for me.
Olympus M. Zuiko Digital ED 100-400mm f5.0-6.3 IS Telephoto Lens ()
Lightweight Build with Premium Technology
The M.Zuiko 100-400mm lens is compact and lightweight, geared for sports and wildlife photographers of any level. When it comes to lenses of this focal length, nothing else on the market will compare to the small size of this lens. You can count on the in-body 3-step image stabilization to keep your images as sharp as ever. The lens will feature an on/off switch to easily disengage the IS. For even more reach, this lens is compatible with both the Olympus 1.4x teleconverter and the 2x teleconverter, which would extend the focal length to 400-1600mm 35mm equivalent.
This lens is also equipped with a focus clutch, focus limiter, and an IS switch. Extensive hermetic sealing on the entire lens barrel provides the same high level of dust-proof, splash-proof, and freeze-proof performance, rendering it designed to go anywhere.
Field-Tested:
I had the chance to test both the E-M10 Mark IV and M.Zuiko 100-400mm in the field last week, and I was ecstatic with the results. My first camera ever was actually the E-M10 Mark II, so it was exciting to come full-circle and have the chance to review its upgraded version three years later.
After testing this kit in different settings and environments, I can easily say I would feel comfortable carrying this in my bag. The camera body was lightweight and easy to fit into my pack. I tested out the in-body image stabilization by shooting handheld at a one second shutter speed (seen in waterfall image below), and the resolution remained sharp and clear. The new 20.3MP sensor really is a game changer for users of this camera. You can now create professional-level photos on a much lower budget.
The 100-400mm lens offers a versatile range, sharp composition, in a lightweight and durable build. Considering the 35mm equivalent is 800mm at its longest focal length, you really can’t beat this lens. I was happy with both the sharpness of the photos, and the fast AF system which proved easy to focus even at 400mm.
All in all, I highly recommend the E-M10 Mark IV to photographers at any level, in any field. This camera will allow photographers to step up their game or just get in the game. The M.Zuiko 100-400mm lens will offer wildlife and sports photographers a portable, yet versatile option to their arsenal. Put these two pieces together and you have a seriously powerful kit.
Feature image by Tyler Glass
