Mirrorless cameras are maturing. Once the target of curious "prosumers" looking for something less bulky than a DSLR, the category now offers some models that command the attention of pros -- models like the Olympus OM-D E-M1.
The E-M1 takes its place as the new flagship in Olympus' line of micro four-thirds mirrorless cameras. Able to use both mirrorless lenses as well as DSLR-type models, the camera is equipped with a dual autofocus system for zeroing in on targets faster.
One feature pros will love is the electronic viewfinder, which does a decent job of simulating a real one. When you raise the camera up to your eye, the screen automatically shuts off, and the viewfinder switches on. For those who prefer using the LCD, it articulates up and down just like the Olympus E-P5.
The camera's Live MOS image sensor can capture pictures up to 16.3 megapixels, and it's backed up by a TruePic VII image processor, which is said to reduce noise at high ISO ratings better than the previous generation.
I had some hands-on time with the E-M1 earlier tonight at a fairly photogenic venue: New York's Intrepid Air & Space Museum. I came away suitably impressed by its picture-talking abilities, but it was the design that really captivated me. Here's a sample pic:
The camera's size is right in the sweet spot between a DSLR (too big) and some of the smaller mirrorless models. It's larger than the Samsung NX-300, for instance, but it uses the extra girth well: The grip feels perfect, and there's room for substantive dials. Call it a personal preference, but I'm not a fan of dials so small they're practically hidden.
When shooting in a manual mode, you can customize the settings so those dials do what you want. For the most part, controls are intuitive, and I appreciated a dedicated button to activate HDR mode.
The camera's micro four-thirds sensor captured some great night photos on the deck of the aircraft carrier that even challenged the Canon T4i I took with me. Video quality looked good, too, with less noise than I expected.
The Olympus E-M1 Will be available in October For the tidy sum of $1,399.99. You can get it in any color, as long as it's black.
How do you like Olympus' latest mirrorless offering? Share your thoughts in the comments.