Questions tagged [micro-four-thirds]

The Micro Four Thirds system is a standard that provides compatibility between cameras and lenses from several different manufacturers that adhere to the standard. One of the distinguishing features is the sensor size, which is larger than most compact cameras, but smaller than a standard DSLR.

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How do Micro 4/3s cameras compare with DSLR cameras?

What are the major (and perhaps more subtle) differences between the newer Micro 4/3s format in comparison to the well-established DSLR cameras? What are the pros and cons of the Micro 4/3s format, ...
Ciaocibai's user avatar
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26 votes
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Are there drawbacks when using Panasonic lenses on Olympus Micro Four Thirds cameras?

I'm interested in trying out Olympus' new OM-D E-M5, and since I'm used to using a normal prime (and just spent some time using one on Fujifilm's new mirrorless EVF camera), I'd like to try that ...
mattdm's user avatar
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24 votes
8 answers
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How can I reduce the noise present when taking pictures without lowering my ISO?

I know that high ISOs tend to produce more noise, and some cameras' software can handle that noise better than others, but are there any other settings or conditions tha affect visible noise? I'm ...
Jaydles's user avatar
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21 votes
4 answers
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Do the same camera settings lead to the same exposure across different sensor sizes?

Let's say I have a micro-4/3rd camera and a full frame camera, both set to 1/60 at f/2.8, taking a picture of the same scene in the same lighting. Will the exposure be the same across both cameras ...
Daniel T.'s user avatar
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18 votes
2 answers
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Is gallery quality possible with a mirrorless camera?

I'm a gallery represented photographer and I'm contemplating a new camera. I currently shoot with a Canon 40D primarily with 2 pieces of Canon L glass, the 17-40mm and the 24-105mm. I am exceptionally ...
Paul Cezanne's user avatar
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15 votes
11 answers
27k views

Is there a noticeable difference in image quality between Micro Four Thirds and APS-C entry-level DSLR cameras?

I am thinking about either buying a Nikon d3400 (APS-C or an Olympus OM-D EM-10 mkii (M4/3). In principle I would prefer the Olympus, as it is much smaller and could fit in a jacket pocket. However ...
user5227744's user avatar
12 votes
6 answers
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Is it practical and worthwhile to fit old SLR lenses to mirrorless digital cameras?

I see that there seem to be a lot of lens adapters available on eBay to allow fitting old SLR lenses onto new digital cameras such as the micro 4/3 and the sony NEX cameras. Is it actually worth the ...
Matthew Dresser's user avatar
12 votes
5 answers
2k views

Is the smaller mass and bulk of Micro Four Thirds gear vs. APS-C DSLRs meaningful?

I currently have a Nikon D90 and a few DX and FX lenses. I am thinking about changing to Micro Four Thirds (as it's a drag carrying around a big DSLR all the time, and my most important shoots are on ...
Reid's user avatar
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9 votes
7 answers
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What CCTV lenses can I use with Micro 4/3 and adapter?

I keep hearing things about using CCTV C Mounts hacked into a Micro 4/3 camera using an adapter. Does anybody have any experience with this? Can any ebay lens work, or is the C-mount not universal? ...
Suspi's user avatar
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9 votes
3 answers
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What are the downsides of the Olympus Anti-shock Shutter Release (electronic front curtain shutter) on the M10 Mark ii?

From what I understand this uses an electronic front curtain shutter, which I do not know how does it work. Does it present the same disadvantages as a regular electronic shutter? - which are: ...
Pedro Rolo's user avatar
9 votes
2 answers
541 views

Can any MFT lenses be turned into a practical object-space telecentric macro lens by reversing?

The micro four thirds specifications originally want lenses to be image space telecentric if possible. It seems that some MFT lenses actually follow that recommendation. Can reversing such a lens ...
rackandboneman's user avatar
8 votes
5 answers
11k views

Why are Micro Four Thirds lenses so expensive compared to Canon?

I'm looking at picking up a new prime portrait lens to augment the kit lenses that came with my Olympus OM-D M-10. My brother has a Canon with a 50mm f/1.8 lens that takes beautiful photos and costs ...
James Davies's user avatar
8 votes
4 answers
1k views

Does sensor size dictate lens size with all other things equal?

Background I'm considering switching from DSLR to mirrorless and have been researching the micro four thirds (M43/MFT) and Sony's new Alpha 7 (A7). While Sony hasn't released many lenses for this new ...
AndyML's user avatar
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Should I switch to a mirrorless camera for baby/kid pictures?

I currently own a canon entry DSLR and a couple of lenses (kit 18-55, 50 1.8 and a 70-300). I am also expecting a baby soon and I plan to take many pictures of her. I have been thinking about ...
santiagozky's user avatar
8 votes
5 answers
2k views

Is the format for the distortion and chromatic aberration correction of µ4/3 lenses documented?

Olympus micro 4/3 cameras apply distortion correction on their in-camera JPEGs when used with a micro 4/3 lens. Panasonic cameras correct both distortion and chromatic aberration with their lenses. ...
RAOF's user avatar
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7 votes
5 answers
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Can you recommend a macro lens for a micro 4/3 camera?

I've recently purchased a micro 4/3 camera (Panasonic GF1), and I'm aware that with an appropriate adapter, I can use a large variety of third-party lenses. I'm interested in experimenting with macro ...
codeinthehole's user avatar
7 votes
6 answers
6k views

How do non-MFT lenses work on a Panasonic GF3?

I'm thinking of buying a GF3. But the lenses are pricy, so I have to pick my kit wisely. I saw that there are adapters for it, but I'm new to lenses. Are there any problems with attaching non-MFT ...
blez's user avatar
  • 265
7 votes
2 answers
2k views

What considerations are there when buying a polarising filter?

I have an Olympus EPL1 with two lenses: the micro 4/3rds 14-42mm and the 4/3rds 40-150mm. At the beach today, I could see the sea creatures in the rock pools but couldn't take a picture of them. The ...
Andrew Stacey's user avatar
7 votes
1 answer
325 views

Is something moving inside a micro four thirds camera when you take a picture?

I just spent some time playing with a couple of Olympus micro four third cameras and I was surprised that when I took a picture, I felt the body of the camera jerking slightly. That's something I ...
Pablo Fernandez's user avatar
7 votes
1 answer
456 views

Is the Micro Four Thirds standard specification public?

I want to get more knowledge of M43 standard, and I assumed that as a standard it should be available with all specifications for the public — or at least for purchase — but couldn't get one. The ...
sigrlami's user avatar
  • 173
7 votes
3 answers
1k views

Is a dSLR or mirrorless camera better for learning about photography?

I am getting frustrated with the limitations of my iPhone camera and my girlfriend's point-and-shoot. I want to purchase my first serious camera and learn how to take better photos. I don't think the ...
user1021's user avatar
7 votes
4 answers
2k views

Where can I get an extension tube for micro-four-thirds lenses?

There doesn't seem to be any extension tube set listed on the m4/3 section of the Four Thirds website. Olympus makes the EX-25 extension tube but it's for regular Four Thirds lenses. I would like to ...
Jason S's user avatar
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7 votes
2 answers
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Are micro four thirds lenses fully interchangeable between brands?

I'm thinking about switching from DSLR to Micro 4/3, and I've found several brands of cameras and lenses, and I want to know if I buy a camera from a specific brand, will I be stuck to that brand ...
IAmJulianAcosta's user avatar
7 votes
2 answers
631 views

What should I know about remote shutter-releases for a Panasonic GF-1?

I've looked around quite a bit and I'm about to bite the bullet and order the Panasonic DMW-RSL1 Remote Shutter Release which feels quite overpriced, but is the manufacturer's own product. At that ...
Larry's user avatar
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6 votes
1 answer
382 views

Does adapting a fish-eye lens on a smaller sensor lose the fish-eye effect?

When you adapt a lens for a larger system (full-frame or APS-C) onto a micro four thirds camera, you are essentially cropping the image. Many lenses do not have a problem with this since the focal ...
AndyML's user avatar
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6 votes
1 answer
693 views

Are the threads on all camera makes the same when it comes to filters?

Are the threads on all camera makes the same when it comes to filters? I have a couple of 52mm diameter lenses that I use with my Lumix GX80/85 and would like to buy some ND filters. Can I chose any ...
MiguelH's user avatar
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6 votes
2 answers
3k views

Sensor hangs loose in the body when camera is switched off

I own a Panasonic DMC-G81 (same as G80/G85) with in-body Image Stabilization. When turned on everything is just fine, but when turned off, the sensor is wobbling around in the body. When no lens ...
pLumo's user avatar
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5 votes
7 answers
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What "all rounder" travel lenses can help me decide between Sony, Nikon, or Panasonic Micro Four Thirds?

I want to upgrade from compact (Sony 24x superzoom) to more enthusiast-style camera. After extensive search and comparison (dpreview.com and elsewhere) I have selected Sony SLT A55, Lumix GH2 and ...
Rasto's user avatar
  • 201
5 votes
9 answers
2k views

Should I stick with Micro Four Thirds or switch to a larger format before investing in more gear?

Recently I was given a Panasonic GF2 micro 4/3 camera + 14mm pancake lens for my birthday — a nice upgrade to what I have been using recently. I want to start to take my photography more seriously, ...
Nick's user avatar
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5 votes
4 answers
3k views

Does micro 4/3 have an advantage in low light due to aperture equivilence?

Recent Micro Four/Thirds sensors seem to have improved their noise performance significantly. I own a Canon 5D Mark 2 full frame DSLR and am considering purchasing an Olympus OM-D EM5 micro four ...
fianchetto's user avatar
5 votes
2 answers
6k views

Micro four thirds lens and camera compatibility

I was looking at some micro four thirds camera to buy. I am not too sure how the whole system works: Can I use four thirds lens on micro four thirds camera? And the opposite? What brands make micro ...
Paolo's user avatar
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5 votes
4 answers
4k views

What Micro-Four Thirds prime lenses produce pleasing bokeh?

What prime lenses can you recommend for producing pleasing bokeh on the Micro Four Thirds cameras like the Panasonic GH2/3? I'm interested in both Panasonic and non-Panasonic lenses (including using ...
Joetsu's user avatar
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5 votes
3 answers
1k views

Would a Panasonic G3 be able to handle low-light conditions on a South African safari?

I'm going on safari in South Africa and wondering if a micro 4/3 camera will be able to handle the low light conditions (since safaris are at dawn and dusk). Specifically, I'm looking at the ...
Lauren's user avatar
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5 votes
1 answer
4k views

What is the crop factor for Four Thirds cameras considering aspect ratios?

I'm considering switching to the Micro Four Thirds system. Finding lenses which match my style is a key part of that, and "normalizing" via crop factor is a convenient tool. The crop factor for Four ...
mattdm's user avatar
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5 votes
1 answer
598 views

Lens f-number and speed on adapted lenses

A lens has a focal length, and its entrance pupil has a diameter. The ratio of these is an f-number. The size of the entrance pupil is limited by the size of the front element, and we describe lenses ...
Tom Anderson's user avatar
5 votes
1 answer
2k views

How does iDynamic on Panasonic G Micro Four Thirds cameras work?

When using iA+ mode on my Panasonic G3 something called iDynamic kicks in and preserves the highlights in the image. I wonder how this is possible, and not just a part of the dynamic range of the ...
Tom's user avatar
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5 votes
2 answers
937 views

From a pure specs perspective, do micro four thirds cameras like the E-PL2 have any advantages over Sony's new RX100?

David Pogue is deeply, wildly in love with Sony's new high-end "pro's second camera", the RX100. So I was thinking of trying to find an excuse to buy it to replace my S95. But then I realized that ...
Jaydles's user avatar
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5 votes
1 answer
2k views

Micro Four Thirds: Which lens adapters are most compatible?

Using the micro four thirds (MFT) system allows you to pick from a wide variety of mount adapters which which to attach your old lenses (Nikon F, Canon EF, Pentax K, etc). Question: Which common lens ...
themirror's user avatar
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4 votes
7 answers
1k views

Why automatic mode is worse than manual? [duplicate]

I have bought a micro 4/3 camera recently and only getting into the basics of photography. What I heard on photo forums is that a rule of thumb is to try not to use an automatic shooting mode and ...
minerals's user avatar
  • 143
4 votes
3 answers
1k views

Backyard wildlife zoom question factoring distance

I'm quite new to photograhpy/videography and I only have a limited budget of $800.00US for a lens. As per Kai's request allow me to pose the question centered around the discussion I initiated: Which ...
CamateurFlowtography's user avatar
4 votes
4 answers
443 views

Is there an index of all Micro Four-Thirds lenses?

I am looking for lens options for a new M4/3 camera I just bought. I'm particularly interested in landscape lenses. However when searching for lenses I can't find one place that has a complete index ...
Bent Rasmussen's user avatar
4 votes
3 answers
3k views

Is it a good idea to use adapted tele lenses with a micro four thirds camera for fast moving (nature/wildlife) photos?

I am thinking of buying an affordable tele lens (600mm+ equivalent) for my panasonic Lumix G5. I have read about adapting 400mm f5.6 EDIF a) For wildlife/bird pictures, would it be too much of ...
dbza's user avatar
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4 votes
2 answers
3k views

Are there reasons beyond weight and price to choose the Olympus 40-150mm over the 14-150mm?

I'm curious whether there is any advantage in buying the 40-150 vs. the 14-150 lens. Both are f/4.0-5.6 and quality seems to be the same. Is there any reason except weight and price for which one ...
ibz's user avatar
  • 547
4 votes
1 answer
606 views

Is there a Micro Four Thirds to Four Thirds Adapter?

I've seen several mount adapters that allow you to use a Four Thirds lens on a Micro Four Thirds camera. Is there such an adapter that works in the reverse? For example, I own a four-thirds camera (...
Brad Montgomery's user avatar
4 votes
1 answer
4k views

Should I get the prime or zoom kit lens with the Panasonic GF3?

I'm new to lenses, because currently I have the fixed lens Olympus XZ-1. I'm thinking of an upgrade, and I find the Panasonic GF3 very good. It has the option of two kit lenses: A pancake lens at 14mm ...
blez's user avatar
  • 265
4 votes
4 answers
867 views

Why doesn't a zoom lens at 25mm on a Micro Four Thirds camera have the "normal" 50mm lens field of view?

I've acquired an Olympus PEN E-PL1 mounting the kit zoom lens and EV-2 electronic viewfinder. Somehow, setting the lens at 25 mm does not yield the field of view I expect from a 50 mm equivalent focal....
Mario's user avatar
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4 votes
3 answers
4k views

Printing large (16x20 and up) with the Olympus OM-D EM-5?

Is it possible to make 16x20 inch prints using images from the Olympus OM-D EM-5 (and some good Olympus primes), while retaining sharpness and detail? Especially for landscape images? I've used a ...
Steve Solomon's user avatar
4 votes
2 answers
1k views

Why are MMF-1 / MMF-2 adapters so expensive?

Why is it that MMF-1 / MMF-2 adapters (the ones that convert from 4/3 to Micro 4/3) are that expensive?! They seem to be at least $140 on eBay, $250 on Amazon! Is this a way for Olympus to force you ...
ibz's user avatar
  • 547
4 votes
1 answer
1k views

Panasonic DMW-FL360L flashgun not firing, blinking Auto Check and Test/Reset lights even after replacing batteries

My Panasonic DMW-FL360L has stopped working. I get the blinking Auto Check and Test/Charge lights, which normally indicate that the batteries are depleted; however, even after installing a fully-...
bwDraco's user avatar
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4 votes
1 answer
971 views

What kind of lenses will work best with a tilt-shift adapter for a mirrorless camera?

I own a Micro Four Thirds Camera and want to buy a Tilt Shift adapter to mount a lens. I want to take pictures with the miniature effect. I'm wondering which lens I should buy to mount on the adapter....
Bob's user avatar
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