OM SYSTEM, the successor of the Olympus brand, has unveiled its latest flagship camera, the OM-1 Mark II. Marking a significant shift away from the Olympus brand, this new model boasts a variety of advanced features.
These include a stacked CMOS sensor, IP53 environmental sealing, an impressive 8.5 stops of synced mechanical stabilization, improved subject detection, and high-quality 4K UHD/DCI video capabilities up to 60 frames per second.
Video Capabilities and Specifications
Focusing on video features, the OM-1 Mark II offers a range of 4K recording options, including UHD and DCI formats, with H.265 and H.264 codecs. The camera supports Long GOP and All-I (only in Full HD) internal 10-bit recording, with a maximum internal bitrate of 202Mbps. While its 4K frame rate tops out at 60P, the camera can shoot stills at 120fps (RAW files), although this high-speed capture is limited to just over 90 frames. For ultra-high-speed recording, it can reach up to 240P in Full HD. Additionally, the camera can export ProRes RAW 4:4:4 12bit footage to an Atomos recorder. In line with current hybrid cameras, the OM-1 Mark II doesn’t have any restrictions on recording time.
Durability and Construction
The OM-1 Mark II continues Olympus’s legacy of robust camera construction. It features an IP53 rating, signifying high resistance to dust and water exposure, based on specific testing methods.
Sensor and Stabilization Features
The camera is equipped with a modern Stacked CMOS sensor, which ensures rapid read speeds, minimal rolling shutter effects, and potentially enhanced scene recognition. Its mechanical stabilizer provides up to 8 stops of stabilization for stills, and when used with optically stabilized lenses, this can increase to 8.5 stops. It’s important to note that while this offers excellent stabilization for still photography, it may not necessarily translate to equally smooth video stabilization.
Target Audience and Use Case
Primarily designed for rugged outdoor use, the OM-1 Mark II is ideal for scenarios requiring minimal equipment. It excels in both video and still photography, with its ability to shoot up to 120fps with single-shot autofocus or 50fps with continuous autofocus. The camera also inherits advanced computational imaging features from its predecessor, capable of producing high-resolution images up to 80 megapixels with tripod-based multi-shots, and 50 megapixels with hand-held multi-shots. Additionally, it includes an “Internal ND” mode for stills, using computational stacking to simulate the effect of an ND filter.
The OM-1 Mark II by OM SYSTEM is primarily targeted at outdoor photographers who need a reliable and versatile camera for both stills and video. Being part of the Micro Four Thirds ecosystem, it is compatible with a range of compact and rugged lenses, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize lightweight equipment for their outdoor adventures or expeditions.
News source: https://explore.omsystem.com/us/en/om-1-mark-ii
