OM-1 Mark II outdoor photo camera shoots 14-bit DCI 4K video

This week, OM System launched its latest flagship camera: the OM System OM-1 Mark II. With its durable design and advanced computational photography features, this new Micro Four Thirds camera is designed for rugged outdoor photography applications. However, there are plenty of exciting features for videographers, as well.

Let’s see what the OM-1 Mark II has to offer.

Inside the OM-1 Mark II

Though the OM-1 Mark II targets outdoor photographers, it offers some compelling features for videographers as well. Paired with the TruePic X processor, the camera’s 20-megapixel stacked BSI Live MOS MFT sensor is capable of capturing DCI and UHD 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. For stills, the camera captures up to 10 fps, or up to an impressive 120 fps with E. Shutter on.

More impressive, the OM-1 Mark II records in bit depths up to 14-bit. This promises rich and accurate colors with lots of latitude in post-production.

Additionally, the camera features a Cross Quad Pixel Phase-Detection Autofocus system with AI-powered subject detection — an upgrade from the previous model.

With the OM-1 Mark II’s 5-axis in-body image stabilization, OM System promises up to 8.5 stops of shake compensation. The IBIS system is also compatible with lens-based optical image stabilization systems.

Computational photography

Computational photography refers to all of the digital processing techniques that a camera uses to create an image. For example, the OM-1 Mark II builds on the previous model’s Live ND function to deliver its Live GND (graduated neutral density) filter option. This allows you to apply a digital neutral density filter to select portions of the image, with real-time monitoring in the LCD or viewfinder.

Other computational modes include the 80 MP Tripod High Res Shot and 50 MP Handheld High Res Shot modes along with Live Composite and Focus Stacking modes.

Design and form-factor

To preview your shots, the OM-1 Mark II offers both a 5.76 m-dot OLED electronic viewfinder and a 3-inch 1.62 m-dot swiveling LCD touchscreen monitor. The camera records to dual UHS-II SD card slots. Plus, the camera is weather-sealed and freezeproof to 14F with an IP53 rating. This makes it perfect for unpredictable outdoor shooting conditions.

New M.Zuiko lenses to match

The OM-1 Mark II is being released alongside two new lenses. First, the M.Zuiko Digital ED 9-18mm f/4-5.6 II is a wide-angle zoom lens. Also released, the M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-600mm f/5-6.3 IS offers a super-telephoto zoom with a 7-stop-effective image stabilization system. This lens is ideal for wildlife photography in remote outdoor locations.

 M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-600mm f/5-6.3 IS in the field
M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-600mm f/5-6.3 IS. Image courtesy: OM System

Pricing and Availability

The OM-1 Mark II is available for pre-order now, starting at $2,400 for the body only. The camera should start shipping near the end of February 2024. Also available for preorder, the M.Zuiko Digital ED 9-18mm f/4-5.6 II and the M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-600mm f/5-6.3 IS will also ship near the end of the month. Those new lenses come in at $700 and $2,700, respectively.

For more information, visit explore.omsystems.com.

Nicole LaJeunesse
Nicole LaJeunesse
Nicole LaJeunesse is a professional writer and a curious person who loves to unpack stories on anything from music, to movies, to gaming and beyond.

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