As camera technology continues to improve, the amount of equipment we tend to carry around as photographers grows. Additionally, the techniques we use in the field continue to evolve and become more complex. As someone who teaches outdoor photography for a living, I know how overwhelming it can be. You know that you need numerous techniques to achieve the best results. Beyond that, the laundry list of equipment you need to carry is growing daily. Enter the OM System OM-5 Mark II.
A couple of weeks back, I was sent the new OM Systems OM-5 Mark II Camera. I was planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park. The camera exceeded expectations and solved all the problems above. It was small and compact, yet it didn’t compromise on image quality or ease of use. In fact, it did some of the tedious in-field techniques used in landscape photography in-camera. I’m sharing what you need to know about this small but mighty new camera, based on my time with it.
Key Features of the OM-5 Mark II
- 20mp LiveMOS Sensor
- 121 AF Points
- Computational Photography Button
- 50mp/70mp High-res Shot Mode
- 30fps Burst Shooting/10fps in C-AF
- 4K30p Video Recording in OMLog400
- Compact and Lightweight (418g)
- Two New Video Color Profiles
- Night Vision for Night Photography
- Improved Grip
- USB-C Charging
- IP53 Weatherproofing
OM-5 Mark II TL:DR
Outdoor photography and travel go hand-in-hand. Anyone who has traveled much knows how important the space in your bag and the weight on your back are. The OM-5 Mark II checks both boxes. Being both compact and lightweight, especially when paired with some of the compatible f/1.8 primes. Whether you are a beginning photographer who doesn’t yet know how to get the most out of post-processing or an experienced photographer looking to simplify your workflow..
This new camera is loaded with features to help you capture better images in-camera. And when you get the itch to capture a quick video of your travels, 4K30p video recording in OMLog400 or one of the two new video recording modes will ensure top-notch footage straight out of the camera. Finally, a brand-new USB-C charging port is perfect for creators who constantly find themselves on the go to ensure their camera stays charged for the best moments.
Compact and Lightweight
As someone who likes to travel far, fast, and light, I was very pleased with the size and weight of the OM-5 Mark II. Weighing just 418g / 14.74oz and being ultra-thin, I hardly noticed this camera in my bag. When paired with some of the popular OM System f/1.8 prime lenses, the total weight is around 500g / 17.63oz. Compared to the original OM-5, the Mark II version comes with an improved grip, which makes it feel a little more comfortable in the hand. If you’re used to shooting on a larger DSLR or Mirrorless Camera, this grip will still feel small, but it is an upgrade from the original and certainly something that you can get used to.
Beginner Friendly with Convenience for Pros
It’s difficult to find a camera that can offer simple yet powerful tools for newer creators while also being equipped with advanced features to satisfy pro or semi-pro creators. The OM-5 Mark II can certainly suit both. I was able to give the camera to my wife, who has absolutely no knowledge of photography whatsoever, and she was able to create images that would definitely please any beginner. Scene Select AE lets you choose what type of scene you’re shooting (Scenery, Close-Ups, People, Nightscapes, Motion, Indoors) and then further select a secondary metric after that, allowing you to create better images in camera.
Computational Photography Button
One of the most popular features of OM-System cameras is Computational Photography, which gives you access to higher-end in-camera workflows that help simplify the shooting process while also giving you stunning images. High Res shot allows you to shoot higher-resolution images, even handheld. Live ND Shooting eliminates the need to carry ND filters, as you can have up to an ND16 (4-stop) in-camera. Focus Stacking helps you to achieve front-to-back focus, a crucial technique for landscape photography. HDR captures multiple images to increase the dynamic range in your shots. Multiple Exposure can be used to overlay one image onto another. Most of these modes allow you to let the camera do the work and produce a JPEG image, or you can have the camera take the RAW photos for you to blend later.
A True Hybrid Camera
Even if you just consider yourself a photographer, you’ll undoubtedly come across a time when you want to capture a video. With the OM-5 Mark II, you get 4K30p video, which I used on numerous occasions. If you’re a more serious filmmaker, OMLog400 footage is available in 4K30p. This camera also features two new video shooting modes, called OM Cinema 1 and OM Cinema 2, which have distinct styles that can help to create a cohesive look in your films. If you want to capture portraits or wildlife, the OM-5 Mark II has eye-detection as well as up to 30fps in burst shooting to ensure you capture the very best moment.
USB-C Charging
The camera I was sent only came with a single battery, which I originally thought would give me trouble in scenarios where I was out in the field for long periods of time. I was pleasantly surprised with the battery life, and while I don’t know the exact number of images you can expect on one battery, I will say that it should be sufficient for most shooters. When it needs to be charged, the OM-5 Mark II has a USB-C port, so you can charge it the same way you charge most of your other devices.
Who Should Buy the OM Systems OM-5 Mark II?
There are a few different kinds of creators who would find the OM-5 Mark II to be the perfect camera. It’s certainly tailored to suit the needs of a travel, landscape, or outdoor photographer. Especially one who is conscious of the weight and size of their equipment. Additionally, it fills the need for beginner and semi-pro photographers alike who demand a camera that is easy to use, filled with features to create excellent images in camera, and good for multiple different styles of photography. Not to mention videography. If you are either one of those types of creators or if both of those descriptions sound like you, the OM-5 Mark II will not disappoint.
Final Thoughts
Getting the chance to use the new OM-5 Mark II in Yellowstone was an absolute pleasure. The best way to describe this camera is small yet mighty and incredibly easy to use, regardless of your skill level or past experiences. I personally shot everything from landscapes, wildlife, portraits, nightscapes, and video and found the OM-5 Mark II to be the jack of all trades. If you’re looking for the perfect compact travel camera that will make capturing amazing images easier than ever before, this might be the camera for you.
