Thoughts on Micro 4/3 (Four-Thirds) Cameras?

[atrac7GTS]

So I would consider myself an amateur photographer. I don't like standard point and shoots and have been using the bridge style Panasonic FZ28 w/ Leica lens for a bit.


However, I think I want to move closer to the DSLR world and more into serious territory. I will admit however for the most part I'm put off by the size of these cameras. Thus, in comes the newer micro 4/3rds cameras, primarily by Panasonic and Olympus. Smaller form factors and smaller kit lenses.

Anyone have opinions on this type of camera? I would be able to use classic 4/3 lenses with adapters also.

Also, I'm currently looking at the Olympus EP1. They are hovering around 350 now for refurbished ones with the 14-42 mm kit lens. Any opinions of that particular model?

[Jeffro]

What are you trying to do with your photography. depending on that should help you decide what equipment you should get.

[atrac7GTS]

Originally Posted by Jeffro

What are you trying to do with your photography. depending on that should help you decide what equipment you should get.

Casual photography really...scenic images, buildings, vehicles, etc. I don't like taking pictures of people much. Nothing professional, and probably not too much involving moving objects. I do enjoy taking macros, and I am involved in some light editing in Aperture.

[Jeffro]

Well I use a Nikon D90 and if you want the most out of your camera SLR are the best way to go.

If you are looking for the most bang out of a small package, I have used a Canon G10 or G11 and they are insanly good. You can do alot with them. Except change lenses.

The most important is being able to easily change shutter speed and aperture. controls on the body are very important to me too.

[mrluilou]

just get yourself a low end model dslr since those are smaller bodies

[atrac7GTS]

Originally Posted by mrluilou

just get yourself a low end model dslr since those are smaller bodies

Any specific models?


Problem is lenses will still be gigantorz...

[mrluilou]

just use primes and you would be set
nikon d3100 is a pretty small camera

[Jeffro]

d3100 with a prime 35mm and a 85mm should do nicely

[Blue Bomber]

I'd hold back for at least the EP-2, as the EP-1 has pretty slow focusing (even the EP-2's kit lens holds it back). Personally, I'd stay away from them completely, as you have to use Live View all the time unless you buy an optional viewfinder. You'll have trouble in the sun with LV, and since it doesn't have phase detection AF like a DSLR (only contrast detection), you might have trouble locking focus in certain situations. Oh, and this:





In the end, neither system is pocketable, so I'd either go for a top of the line P&S that can fit in your pocket, or an entry level DSLR. Going with either Canon or Nikon will give you a wealth of older, smaller lenses if portability is an issue. I've got an old Nikon 50mm F/1.8 that's the size of a Jello cup.

[mrluilou]

^just that lens alone is 8x out of his budget

[atrac7GTS]

gracias mr luilou and jeffro..i will take a peek at the 3100. and you are right ^^ i that piece of glass is probably way out of my league

Originally Posted by Blue Bomber

In the end, neither system is pocketable, so I'd either go for a top of the line P&S that can fit in your pocket, or an entry level DSLR. Going with either Canon or Nikon will give you a wealth of older, smaller lenses if portability is an issue. I've got an old Nikon 50mm F/1.8 that's the size of a Jello cup.

I know what you're saying. I guess I'm intrigued at the relative results for beginners when it comes to micro 4/3rds. You are right about the E-P1 though, I decided to pass. Although it apparently produced jpegs as high quality as upper end Nikons, it's focus reviews were a nightmare. Also, after using the FZ28, I don't know how I'd go for a camera without some sort of VF.

Speaking of VF, most of the micro 4/3rds have some crappy ass EVF (if they even include one)...there is one camera that seems like it's an overall beast in terms of features, that i'm HIGHLY considering getting now: Panasonic Lumix G2, which does have a surprisingly high equality EVF






The reviews on this bad boy are pretty solid, and I'm used to Panny's layout. In my opinion, Panasonic has always been a dark horse in the camera wars. I seriously would put them up at the top in several categories. The fact that they are trying to change up an industry with a mirror less system and interchangeable lens is very appealing. Okay, enough of my panasonic fanboyism.

Back to the G2, for a beginner, I think this will be a fun camera to mess around with. It has an articulating screen which I realized is something I'd love to have. Also, first touch screen on a interchangeable lens system? Please please

[atrac7GTS]

just bit the bullet and bought a G2


i am pumped needless to say.

[Jeffro]

I wanna see some pictures now! Lets see how it runs and see your skill.. Just think about everyshot before pressing the trigger!

[atrac7GTS]

Originally Posted by Jeffro

I wanna see some pictures now! Lets see how it runs and see your skill.. Just think about everyshot before pressing the trigger!

Thanks my friend! I'll need some luck, this is my first experience outside of the usual point and shoot realm. I am really excited to step it up though, and i've been refreshing the tracking number like a mofo. Should be here at the latest on Christmas Eve--perfect timing


Here are some sample images to the former version of my camera, the G1, hopefully I can pull off skill like these! All are straight out the camera, apparently. First one has a mural painted in the background behind the fencing.