Micro Four Thirds mirrorless shooters will rejoice at the release of OM Digital Solutions' (formerly Olympus) OM System OM-1 mirrorless camera.
While it's not the most innovative in naming - taking its name from their original OM film SLR camera - it is a substantial upgrade in terms of technology. Here are the key specs:
- 20MP quad-pixel AF Stacked CMOS sensor
- Environmental sealing rated to IP53, meaning it's dust-, splash-, and freeze-proof down to -10ºC (14ºF)
- 1053 X-type autofocus points
- Blackout-free shooting at up to 120 fps with AF and AE locked
- Image stabilization up to 8 stops with compatible lenses
- 4K (UHD or DCI) at up to 60p, in a choice of 8 or 10 bit
- 1080 capture at up to 240 fps
- Twin UHS-II card slots
- Recognition-based subject tracking
A completely new sensor, faster processor, and higher resolution viewfinder take it up a notch from previous E-M1 model cameras. An enhanced autofocus system is better than the E-M1 X with a wide range of trackable subjects including birds and animals. They don't specifically mention fish but we're interested to see how it can do.
The rugged IP53 design doesn't mean you'll be taking it underwater without a housing, but it does give you a security blanket when shooting on the deck of the boat and on more adventurous shore excursions.
For sentimentalists, it may be worth picking up exclusively for the fact that it may be the last camera body to physically carry the Olympus name.
We have the OM-1 camera in hand now and can confirm that it will require a new housing model to take it underwater.
Additional Reading
200DLM/B Underwater Housing for OM System OM-1
OM System OM-1: An adventurous camera and the right tool for the job
Wide Angle Fisheye to Macro on the Same Dive with the Olympus Tough TG-6
Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II Underwater Housing & Camera Review
First Look Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Underwater Housing
RC1 TTL Receiver for DS Strobes & Olympus TG-5 Camera Review
