PRESS RELEASE: The Olympus EM1 MKIII. 60 FPS, 80 MP High Res Mode.

February 12, 2020 Micro 4/3, Mirrorless, News, press release 25

PRESS RELEASE: The Olympus EM1 MKIII!

So Olympus has announced their new EM1 MKIII camera. I was invited to Costa Rica to get a first hands look at it but had to pass on the media trip as I had so much going on here at home while that trip was going on. I was sad to miss out seeing the new camera but did get to partake in an online meeting where I was able to see the new model and all of the new specs and information.

A while back there were some online rumors about the demise of Olympus. Those were 100% false rumors as here they are with their latest pro model. This sits just under the EM1X, and in reality, is a smaller sized EM1X! Press release is below but I am happy to see Olympus still releasing new models and still bringing new lenses as well as a new PEN model. I will see if I can get one to review soon. Below is the press release and information.

PRE ORDER at B&H Photo at $1799

OLYMPUS OM-D® E-M1 MARK III INTERCHANGEABLE LENS CAMERA

Delivering Stunning Image Quality, Superior Mobility And Absolute Reliability

For Professional Photographers Everywhere

CENTER VALLEY, Pa., February 12, 2020 — Today Olympus debuts the OM-D E-M1 Mark III, scheduled to go on sale February 24, 2020. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III is a professional model built for superior mobility. This professional interchangeable lens camera conforms to the Micro Four Thirds® System standard. It comes equipped with a new image processing engine, TruePic™ IX, enabling features such as 50MP Handheld High-Res Shot. Combined with the high image quality of M.Zuiko® Digital lenses, this system fulfills the needs of professional photographers in any field, all in a compact, lightweight dustproof, splashproof, freezeproof magnesium alloy body for peace of mind when shooting in harsh environments.

This reliable, compact and lightweight body offers the world’s most effective 7.5 shutter speed steps of compensation. The OM-D E-M1 Mark III is also equipped with a 121-point all cross-type On-chip Phase Detection AF sensor for high-precision focusing. Starry Sky AF delivers revolutionary autofocus performance for astrophotography, and the Advanced Face / Eye Priority AF tracks and ensures the subject’s eye is continuously in focus, resulting in a crisp, clear portrait. This model is also equipped with versatile features that were popular on the Olympus OM-D E-M1X, such as 50MP Handheld High Res Shot, Live ND, Pro Capture mode, and handheld 4K video, thanks to its 5-axis In-Body Image Stabilization, designed to meet the demands of the professional photographer.

Compact and Lightweight with High Image Quality

By synchronizing the in-lens image stabilization of supported lenses with the in-body 5-axis image stabilization, this model achieves the world’s best 7.5 shutter speed steps of compensation with 5-axis sync IS. Powerful image stabilization enables shooting handheld in dark locations and during super-telephoto photography for outstanding freedom in various scenarios without the need for a tripod. In-body image stabilization ensures image stabilization with all attached lenses, up to 7.0 shutter speed steps of compensation performance.

With the new image processing engine, TruePic IX, combined with its 20.4 Megapixel Live MOS sensor, the world’s most effective 7.5 shutter speed steps of compensation, and high-resolution M.Zuiko Digital lenses deliver minimal noise even at high-sensitivity settings. This model boasts top-class image quality in the interchangeable lens camera class with minimal distortion to the edges of the shot. Improved AF algorithms and high resolution, high speed performance allow for features such as Handheld High Res Shot, Live ND, Starry Sky AF and improved face/eye priority AF.

50MP Handheld High Res Shot makes it possible to capture high-resolution images without the need for a tripod. This feature makes use of the minimal movement occurring between each of the 16 shots to generate a single 50 Megapixel high-resolution photo. This feature is particularly useful for capturing high-resolution shots in locations where it is impossible to use a tripod. Tripod High Res Shot is also available for recording ultra-high-resolution approximately 80 Megapixel equivalent JPEG images, great for suppressing movement in the merged shot, such as a rippling surface of water or leaves shaking in the wind.

Live ND, which is highly regarded on the OM-D E-M1X, is also included on this model, creating a slow shutter effect without the need for a physical ND filter. This feature virtually extends the exposure time and allows the capture of images with the appearance of a slow shutter speed by merging multiple exposures together. Users can select the effect level from ND2 (one step) to ND32 (5 steps), and view the slow shutter effects in the viewfinder before capturing, eliminating the need to change lenses or optical ND filters.

Absolute Reliability

The OM-D E-M1 Mark III body is the foundation to meet photographers’ need for portability and reliability. Add Olympus M.Zuiko Digital PRO lenses for the an unrivaled compact and lightweight system, maintaining the best balance of portability and image quality resulting in performance required and expected by professionals.

The magnesium alloy body of the OM-D E-M1 Mark III features advanced weatherproof construction, resulting in dustproof, splashproof, and freezeproof performance. When paired with a dustproof and splashproof M.Zuiko Digital lens, users can enjoy shooting in the harshest condition without ever worrying about weather or location.

Avoid extra retouching due to dirt and dust on the sensor. The OM-D E-M1 Mark III is equipped with an industry-leading dust reduction system. The SSWF (Super Sonic Wave Filter) vibrates the image sensor at a frequency of 30,000 times per second to shake off dust and dirt. The new dust resistant coating recently introduced on the OM-D E-M1X is also used on this model, making it less likely for dust and dirt to stick to the image sensor, reducing spots in images by 90%.

The Lithium-ion Battery BLH-1 can be fully charged in as little as two hours when charged in the camera via a USB-C PD (Power Delivery) compatible charger of up to 100W.It is also possible to power the camera via a portable USB-C PD power bank or battery pack  allowing the photographer to shoot for long durations, especially convenient for astrophotography or photographing in cold locations.

High Speed Sequential Shooting

This camera is equipped with 121-point all cross-type On-chip Phase Detection AF sensor for tracking subjects across a wide range quickly and accurately. AF information from recorded images is also used even during sequential shooting, more easily tracking subjects that move unpredictably. It offers 75% vertical coverage and 80% horizontal coverage of the screen for a wide focusing area. Paired with the 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 OM-D 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 20.4Megapixels. The subject can also be checked in the viewfinder during high-speed sequential shooting for accurate tracking. Stunning 60 fps shooting performance captures split-second moments in high resolution that the human eye cannot detect utilizing AF/AE lock sequential shooting.

Pro Capture mode makes it possible to record scenes that are difficult to capture due to time lag in the subjects’ reactions or camera operation time lag. Recording begins upon the half shutter release, capturing up to 35 frames retroactively from the point of the full shutter release. Because there is no blackout during shooting, it is possible to keep an eye on subject movement while pressing the shutter button. RAW shooting is also supported. Pro Capture makes it possible to record once-in-a-lifetime shots that you might otherwise miss due to the time lag between people’s reaction and camera operating time lag.

Accuracy Autofocus System

Various Creative Features

Live Composite is included with the OM-D E-M1 Mark III. This feature makes it possible to check exposure status in Live View in real time. Live Composite also supports up to six hours of shooting. With B mode added to the shooting mode dial, Live Composite, Live Bulb, and Live Time are now easier to access and configure. Record photos in focus all the way from the foreground to background.  Focus Stacking automatically creates a composite in-body from up to 15 frames.  Focus Bracketing allows the photographer to shoot up to 999 images at different focus points to composite later using the software of their choice. Silent Mode turns off the mechanical shutter and all electronic sounds.  Perfect for shooting in areas where shutter sounds are inappropriate, such as concert halls. The OM-D E-M1 Mark III is equipped with dual card slots, allowing the user to record JEPG and RAW separately, backup, automatically switching, etc. Slot # 1 is UHS-II/ UHS-I compatible and Slot # 2 is UHS-I compatible. In-body Fisheye Compensation allows the user to remove the distortion created by a fisheye lens providing more wide-angle creative options. Keystone Compensation applies trapezoidal compensation and perspective enhancement simultaneously, providing the functionality of a tilt/shift lens. Anti-Flicker Shooting (mechanical shutter only) detects the flicker of alternating light sources and reduces the effect by only shooting at peak brightness, reducing exposure variation. Flicker Scan (electronic shutter only) minimizes the effects of flickering occur under LED lighting.

OM-D Movie

Electronic stabilization combined with in-body 5-axis stabilization delivers powerful image stabilization during video recording. OM-D Movie makes handheld 4K/C4K shooting possible due to a powerful image stabilization mode specifically designed for video recording (M-IS1). This offers three levels of performance to allow handheld 4K and Cinema 4K (C4K) high resolution shooting.

Software and Smartphone Applications

The OI.Share® dedicated iOS and Android 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 and more convenient shooting and image organization. OI.Share can be used to update the camera firmware and backup and restore camera settings for the OM-D E-M1 Mark III.

Olympus Capture camera control software for computers meets the demands of studio photographers. Recorded images can be imported via Wi-Fi without using a USB connection, providing powerful support the workflow of studio shooting. It supports high-speed 5 GHz band communication.

Olympus Workspace image editing software can handle professional tasks such as RAW processing and image editing, along with offering freedom over screen layout, etc. Connect a computer to the OM-D E-M1 Mark III via USB to enable high-speed RAW processing on Olympus Workspace using the new image processing engine TruePic IX. Clarity and Dehaze editing filters are also 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, easily 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.

Separately Available Accessories

The Power Battery Holder HLD-9 features a dustproof, splashproof, 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 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 is a high quality cable designed for connecting the camera and recorder. An L-shaped plug and curled cord provides easy handling when connected to the OM-D E-M1 Mark III.

Pricing and Availability

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III (black) will be available beginning February 24, 2020. The camera body only will have a suggested retail price of $1,799.99 USD and $2,399.99 CAD. The camera body bundled with the M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm F2.8 PRO Lens will have a suggested retail price of $2,499.99 USD and $3,299.99 CAD, and the camera body bundled with the M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-100 F4.0 IS PRO Lens will have a suggested retail price of $2,899.99 USD and $3,799.99 CAD[1]. The shock mount adapter SM2 will have a suggested retail price of $39.99 USD and $51.99 CAD, and the audio cable KA335 will have a suggested retail price of $14.99 USD and $19.99 CAD. These accessories will be available beginning April, 2020.

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25 Comments

  1. This is becoming like new cars (in the UK at least)…everyone rushes to buy (on contract leases allowing manufacturers to increase the costs incrementally), then uses only 20% of the vehicles capabilities – yes it has traction control, all wheel drive, blind spot detection, self opening boot, etc…but does it get you from A to B any quicker…no (again not on the congested roads of the UK at least)! Same with photography, most people would be better placed spending their hard earned cash on a photography workshop, or visiting exhibitions to see the work of others, and to think about their approach, using the gear they have, rather than chasing the dream. Clearly Pro’s need decent gear, but for the rest of us, we just need something we enjoy using, once you reach that point (in life generally) stick with it. It’s more fulfilling, environmentally friendly, and hurts less in the wallet! I love reading up on all of this though!!

    • This is a pro level camera. For a first camera there are many choices that are less intimidating. The Em1 III is feature rich, and for enthusiasts and professionals. It’s basically a smaller Em1X.

    • Nope. I do not review as much as I used to as I run this as a passionate guy who loves photography over pushing and selling gear. The X100V to me, is another rehash of a camera that is wonderful in its V1 form and Fuji just keeps rehashing it and people keep buying it yet it will never improve anyones photography. I would argue that the V1 X100 would do more to improve ones photography ; ) I only review cameras, especially these days, that I would buy myself or ones that are worth a serious look. All cameras are good, and have been for quite a few years. I think the “photography bubble” will burst soon.

      • I couldn’t agree more….It’s all about actually taking photos, not owning the latest/greatest gear. I was at B&H last week hoping that something would ‘excite’ me….nope. I just love using my Lumix G9.

      • What do you mean by photography bubble bursting soon?

        Do you mean a drastic decrease in new models since the changes are in many ways less and less game changing?

        …and of course smart phone development

      • I dunno… the X100V has a much improved lens (the old one was super soft uop close), a killer new OLED EVF to go with the OVF, much improved AF, 4k video, new floppy screen, weather sealed and really cool new film simulation modes.
        I’m primarily a film shooter, but the new Classic Negative mode on these Fujis (X100V and X-pro3) are knock outs.

      • Yet, with the tilt screen and all other specs they seem to have gotten right, (the only thing they could have implemented being IBIS on an EM1mIII level…), I think the X100V could be the first camera of the X100 series I will own.

        You mean the V1 X100 would slow you down more?

      • I would think the X100V Is hardly a “re-hash” but ok :-). We can all disagree and that’s ok.

  4. It looks pretty ugly now especially with that EM 1 III label.Have they fixed those cavernous menus yet?

    • Ugly is in the eye of the beholder

      But – as an Oly guy I’ll agree that the menus were a PIA to learn. I was a Pentax guy for many years and their menus come as naturally as lovin’. The Oly menus are confusing…..at first….but once familiar they are easy and effective to use

      • You’ll have to lend me your eyes then, John.
        It’s the rear view that bothers me.Looks like they had a bag of buttons and stuck them on everywhere even in the corners I moved to Leica to escape this madness. I don’t doubt the camera takes great images because even the original EM-5 did. I still own one but don’t use it much.

  5. I love my em1x

    The em5mklll has me close to clicking purchase weekly but I’ve held off in anticipation of this

    I don’t need this camera but will likely buy it as I seems truly amazing

    • Yes, AND no AND maybe

      I have the em1mk2 and the EM1X

      This is still the same sensor (mk2, em1x and mklll)

      But – like the X, the mk3 has yet superior IS over the mk2. This means better low light by way of longer exposure capability

      Is the sensor itself more capable? I don’t know. But the freaky IS gives the sensor more range to work within

      The processor- ?…. does it provide for improved low light capability? …dunno…maybe

      I CAN tell you that I get SUPERIOR low light performance w my EM1X than I do w my EM1mk2 or Pen F

      I can also say that the whole lo light discussion is very relative. The low light capabilities of these cameras are awesome in my opinion. Can they hang with the full frame cameras in low light? No. But who cares? Only those who really need extraordinary low light capability. You can always make an argument that more is needed and that the full frame option is the only way to go for low light but again it is 100% contingent upon how low the light is and what you need. I personally dig the hell out of the freaky image stabilization of the EM1X and will be checking out the Mark3 As a companion based upon the image stabilization from the EM1X being present there.

      • This is like a Mini EM1X but having better 5 Axis will not be better for low light….if your subject moves even a hair. It’s only good for static subjects. Low light is still subpar, but that’s just micro 4/3. This uses the same 20MP sensor as the new EM5 (which is excellent) and this new Em1 III. Another refresh of their most popular body really but the last one is still wonderful! (MKII)

        • BUT – you can shoot hand held for crazy lengths of time

          Yes – the sensor is the sensor and the low light limitations of the size are inherent AND moving subjects are what they are, but there are images available of night shots at f16, hand held for…. 15 seconds…! That’s not a typo.

          That is one of the capabilities of this IS

          Replying to you Steve, I’m speaking to a guy who knows the Oly IS stuff as well as probably anyone on earth. I am not disagreeing w you on 4/3 low light capabilities. That’d be silly, but the hand held capabilities on the EM1X and presumably the EM1MK3 surely bring “characteristics”, to low light shooting that are unique.

    • I would suspect yes

      I have the em1mkll and the em1x

      The em1x has superior IS and gives me the ability to use a longer exposure in low light, particularly w a stabilized lens such as the 12-100

      I also seem to see better low light performance inherently

      Is it the processor? I don’t know, but the X definitely is superior in low light than the MK2

      If the mk3 share the tech from the X, it will perform better in low light

      Also – while these cams do t do in low light what ff will, don’t think they are inadequate. They are not. The low light performance is MORE than adequate for 99% of what I do and probably for most others too.

      The comparison to FF just needs to reflect that many new ff cams have oh-my-god low light performance.

      I’ll take the Oly’s which for me offer advantages over ff and feature the ability to NOT carry monster size lenses.

      That’s me

      But ya…you’ll be surprised at the low light performance if it is like the EM1X

      • Olympus has said the EM1X had improved low light due to new coatings on the sensor. I assume the 2 new mk3s have the same coatings with better light transmission. Kinda wish they could go to BSIfor better low light higher iso – and maybe modernize the evf and display.

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