The Olympus Pen-F In 2024??? Is It The Right Move???

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The Olympus PEN-F is not just a camera; it's a tribute to the golden age of photography. Its retro styling harks back to an era when cameras were not just tools, but objects of art themselves. With sleek lines, a tactile. metal finish, and classic detailing, the PEN-F captures the essence of vintage elegance. This design choice evokes a sense of nostalgia and pays homage to the iconic film cameras of yesteryears.
In an age dominated by minimalist aesthetics, the PEN-F stands out as a statement piece. Its vintage charm is a conversation starter, drawing admiring glances from fellow photographers and enthusiasts alike. Carrying the PEN-F is akin to carrying a piece of photographic history, a tangible link between the past and the cutting-edge technology of today.
Beyond its visual appeal, the retro design of the PEN-F serves a functional purpose. The tactile knobs and dials allow for intuitive control, providing a tangible connection between the photographer and the camera. This tactile feedback enhances the shooting experience, offering a level of engagement and satisfaction that modern, button-laden designs often lack.
For street photographers, the PEN-F's retro styling is an asset in itself. Its unobtrusive yet distinctive look allows photographers to blend seamlessly into urban environments. It's a camera that doesn't scream for attention, yet when noticed, commands a sense of respect and admiration.
In a world where sleek and minimalistic designs dominate, the Olympus PEN-F's retro styling is a bold declaration of individuality. It stands as a testament to the enduring allure of classic design, proving that sometimes, the old ways are still the most captivating. The PEN-F is not just a camera; it's a work of art that celebrates the timeless beauty of photography.
5 Reasons I’m Picking Up a Used Pen-F in 2024
1 - The PEN-F's compact form factor ensures it won't draw unnecessary attention on the streets. Its unassuming size allows photographers to blend into the urban landscape, facilitating candid shots and enabling a more immersive shooting experience. This discreetness is an invaluable asset for capturing authentic moments without disturbing the scene.
2 - Exceptional Build Quality: Crafted with precision and attention to detail, the PEN-F exudes durability and reliability. Its robust build can withstand the rigors of street photography, ensuring that it remains a steadfast companion for years to come.
3 - In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS): Street photography often requires photographers to shoot on the move, sometimes in less than ideal lighting conditions. The PEN-F's IBIS system compensates for shakes and jitters, ensuring sharper images even in low light. This feature empowers photographers to push boundaries and explore creative perspectives without worrying about motion blur.
4 - Legacy of M.Zuiko Lenses: The Olympus Micro Four Thirds system offers a vast selection of high-quality M.Zuiko lenses, providing street photographers with a diverse range of focal lengths and perspectives. From wide-angle primes for immersive cityscapes to fast primes for low light situations, this extensive lens lineup enhances the creative possibilities of the PEN-F.
5 - JPEGS - Creative Filters & Monochrome Profile Control: The PEN-F provides dedicated monochrome and color profile controls, allowing photographers to fine-tune their black and white images. This level of customization ensures that you can achieve the exact tonal range and contrast you envision, resulting in striking monochrome shots that evoke a timeless quality.
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31 окт 2023

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Комментарии : 142

@thedarkslide 7 месяцев назад

As for lenses, these are the MUST HAVE lenses for the Pen F: Olympus 12mm f2 Olympus 17mm f1.8 Olympus 45mm f1.8 Olympus 75mm f1.8 Honorable mentions: Olympus 25mm f1.8

@gregfeeler6910 4 месяца назад

I've wanted a PEN-F for years and just yesterday the right deal came along and I'm having a blast with it. I have other, newer Olympus and OM System cameras, including the OM-1, but there's something about the experience of a PEN-F that is very fun and rewarding.

@Cybercygni 4 месяца назад

I bought a Pen F and have had it for a few weeks now. It's the most fun camera I've ever shot with. 17mm and in b/w mode, it is perfect for street photography.

@grantrobertdavies 4 месяца назад

100%

@raytbrown2 5 месяцев назад

Yeah, I have the Pen-F (silver) with the 12mm lens as a walk-about camera and must admit that it's the best street rig I have found. I use it with a 3rd party grip and it's still micro. Plus it's so retro looking that even if you mistakenly break the photographer / subject barrier, the subject seems less offended or shy about having their picture taken. I believe that they think they're being photographed by a professional with a 1950s film camera and almost pose as you click the shutter. It's an amazing tool. Or maybe I'm just charming, as my wife says. 🙂 PS: Since going Olympus and accepting JPEG output, nowadays I *only* shoot in-camera. I do not edit my pics in post, except maybe a white balance or an exposure setting. What a time saver this had proven to be. It just works.

@mperales16 2 месяца назад

Hey that is exactly the reaction i get from subjects on the street, I don’t look PRO, I feel different and so do my subjects.

@koos48 18 дней назад

2:33 Nice to hear you say the GX9 is the best for street photography. I own one, so now I don't need to consider getting the PenF.

@thegreatvanziniphotos5976 8 месяцев назад

Use my Pen F's often. They're just great fun cameras & great shooters too.

@AnilJedi 20 дней назад

Started to use my Pen F more regularly than my OM1. Perfect size and great shots

@jakeman0x0 5 месяцев назад

Lumix is great but Pen F will change your life. I picked up one 2 yrs ago. I'll sell my Fuji, Panasonic or my Sony but I'll never sell my Pen F.

@wojciech2456 2 месяца назад

what makes pen. f so special?

@najibrahim5833 2 месяца назад

@jakeman0x0 yeah i wanna know as well

@wojciech2456 2 месяца назад

@@najibrahim5833 bought one and sold it. Looks cool but nothing special . It’s a e-m10 mk II for 3times the price

@LC-nd9hv 8 месяцев назад

I had one in 2018 and I loved it. I regret selling it so much. Trying to pick a new one up through a Korean online marketplace tonight. GMarket has some new but they won't ship electronic to the USA past a certain price point (not sure about other countries). Trying "Auction." Another Korean marketplace tonight. Fun fact, the Pen F's "grain" setting on the monochrome 2 jpeg is actually scanned film grain that Olympus built in. That's why it looks so close to film or Tri-X 400ish. Hopefully I will be able to purchase it. Fingers crossed.

@originaljamtracks 8 месяцев назад

Hi Grant, cool video and I've had my eye on the inimitable Pen F as well. As you've pointed out it's a beautiful camera and has a sort of 'mythical' status. The only two things I'd say against it is that it will have a lot of overlap with your GX9, which in a number of ways is already a superior street photography camera; and secondly it is getting on in years now with some of the drawbacks that come with that. There is talk that OM System may release an updated Pen F but I wonder how much of this is valid rumour as opposed to wishful thinking. Id love to see an updated version with newer sensor. Either way, if you end up getting one I'm sure you'll enjoy it.

@grantrobertdavies 8 месяцев назад

Thank you - Yeah that’s interesting about the Pen-F mkii - I wonder…

@1957PLATO 8 месяцев назад

I have both the GX9 and the Pen F. For street photography I prefer the flip up screen of the GX9. It happens that I use the GX9 just to shoot in square format and monochrome. The Pen F is a beauty and a jpeg machine. The way you can tweak your jpeg profiles is unmatched.

@kingy2063 5 месяцев назад

Interesting to see you have both. I too have my GX9 set up the way you do.👍

@1957PLATO 5 месяцев назад

@@kingy2063 Great minds think alike, lol

@valdiskrebs1670 3 месяца назад

Yeah, I think the film sims in the Pen-F are better than Fujifilm's sims... and they are easier to set up using the color wheels/filters/curves in the Pen-F interface. Having learned photography with a film camera, I created t Kodachrome, & Ektachrome film sims that look great. The Pen-F already comes with a perfect Tri-X sim, that you can add red/yellow/orange/green B&W filters to ... and dial in the amount of grain you like from none to lots. The Pen-F is a JPEG shooters dream.

@RayTaylorQ 2 месяца назад

When you look at the capabilities of the PEN-F, one could easily determine that there are newer and more capable cameras in terms of speed, autofocus and computational prowess. Especially when you consider the new camera might even be less expensive than a used PEN-F. I evaluated many options for my 2nd Olympus body but in the end I just plunked down my hard earned cash on one. Practical person that I am, I did not take the decision entirely from my heart but passion is behind my choice. In researching the history of the camera I came to learn that the design team was driven by a desire to honor the spirit of Maitani, and basically no expense was spared in the design and manufacturing of this camera. They wanted to create a “classic” digital camera. Also one that would show off the traditional design and manufacturing prowess of Olympus. Rumour has it that Olympus lost money on every body sold. And this partly explains why it is highly unlikely that a worthy successor to the Pen-F will ever see the light of day. In US dollars it would have to retail for mor than the current star attraction, the Fujifilm X100vi. So in some ways I bought it as a way to experience that legacy, but in terms of its output it does have a unique sensor and JPEG engine that exists in no other camera.

@ralphmichaelferraro2398 6 месяцев назад

Interesting presentation ... I am an OM-! user - I agree about their lens

@jeffslade1892 8 месяцев назад

If you have not used a PEN-F you need to do so. It is quite different to other MFT. For one thing they are Marmite (is that Vegemite the same?) - love it or hate it, no in between. The silver job is defo bling. Downsides It is a jpeg monster, at least raw+jpeg. If you never, ever shoot jpeg it is not for you. Shoot "for the jpeg", OM Workspace can emulated the settings and convert it, I do not think others can. The viewfinder can be awkward, it will not take any rubber eyecup. It is not a video camera other than it can shoot the odd video clip, the flip-out screen is wasted on it. It is crying out for a tilt screen for waist level and much else. I think they gave it the flip-out for flat back aesthetics, a mistake. No finger grip so big heavy lenses can be unwieldy to hold. It is CDAF so not best suited to action shots or wildlife. You can though, we did it olde school. Upsides It can emulate any film stock and out-Fuji Fuji. A little more laborious to load the code. Excellent mono too. Excellent 5.5ev IBIS Output is on par with the best of the best current MFT. This is quite a biggie. I cannot tell the difference between PEN-F and G9 without delving into the exif.

@manfredmisch198 8 месяцев назад

Hi Grant, I was faced with the decision to buy a Pen F or a Lumix GX* camera a few years ago. It then first became the GX80/GX85 because of the price. A used GX80 cost a third of a used Pen F. But through frequent use of the GX80 I learned to appreciate many things about Lumix cameras. Then last year I traded in the GX80 for a GX9. One of the main reasons is the power switch, which is located on the right side of all Lumix cameras, so that the camera can be operated one-handed for the main functions. For quick shooting, it has always bothered me with the Olympus cameras that the power switch is on the left side. I also like the tilting display much better than the flip-out display like on the Pen F. The Pen F is a very stylish camera and looks very good visually. But I simply like the handling of the Lumix cameras better. But that is certainly a very individual thing. And what continued to bother me with Olympus is the camera menu, which - again from my personal point of view - is somehow more confusing. I also find the menu in Lumix cameras clearer and more intuitive. In the end, this has led me to keep my Olympus cameras E-M10 Mk. II, E-PL7 and E-M5 Mk. III against the GX9 and a G91 (aka G90/G95).

@barnseyb6031 8 месяцев назад

Hi Grant, great video. I also think it's good to have goals and a vision for the future. I think from what I see watching your videos that increasing your street photography would suit your character and add value to your channel. In regards to the Pen f, I have never seen one and know nothing about them and don't have any grounds to judge. Having said that tho, I'm not sure that you need one to achieve your goals. Like you, I have a gx9 and absolutely love it for street work. It has All the things that you mention about the pen f and more. For me, I wouldn't be without the tilt up screen. I love holding the camera near my tummy looking down at the screen with my thumb on the button ready to shoot - especially when close to people. I get close up shots that I don't feel comfortable with holding the camera up by my face. 😅 ❤

@grantrobertdavies 8 месяцев назад

Thanks man... Yeah, I think I need to double down on my street photography... :)

@grantrobertdavies 8 месяцев назад

I might even sell off 2 or 3 cameras to fund the purchase :)

@4mooncheese 8 месяцев назад

Was able to get some nice street night shots with the GX9. Would love the Pen-F though.

@waynecox5138 7 месяцев назад

I’ve wanted the Pen F since it came out. Hopefully the release a new version.

@sophietucker1255 3 месяца назад

I have had my PenF for about 4 yrs and love it. The 12,17 and 25 primes makes this a very compact street shooter, travel and just general walk around camera. I also have the 12-40 2.8 Pro and that lens is on the camera most of the time. The balance with it on is a little awkward but you do get used to it. I use mine with a wrist strap and barely notice that it is there. I’ve taken some clunker images with it but the focus, exposure and sharpness was always bang on. I also like the ART modes and monochrome is my favorite ART mode

@pictureeyecandy 2 месяца назад

I use an older Pen, An Olympus Pen E-P3! Yes, I want a Pen F but it's out of my price range. The JPEGs are nice, you can adjust them to even match film stock colors if you choose to.

@motostreetfoto2767 7 месяцев назад

I get mine tomorrow! I got a deal on it! Deciding on a lens. I might have to try the 9mm body cap lens. The lumix 14f2.5 seems up my alley too.

@mattfowlerkc 7 месяцев назад

Heard they might release a mark II. My first mirrorless was the E-PL8. The Pen-F is definately more capable. They are fun little cameras though.

@sdhute 8 месяцев назад

Penf has always been intriguing to me. I believe the first camera with the 20mp sensor. It’s become a cult classic if such a thing exists for photogs. The oly mx1 is interesting too for speed

@boingoatpunkass 6 месяцев назад

I love my Pen-F but I do have some issues that might be useful to know for anyone thinking of buying. 1) No USB charging so be prepared to juggle batteries and bring your charger. 2) the Olympus phone app is pretty bad - the GPS feature constantly turns itself off, it can be very hard to connect sometimes, it crashes and it's slow to transfer images. After using Olympus, Panasonic and Fuji apps I can say that Olympus has the worst app, Fuji has the best and Panasonic is in the middle but they are all disappointing. 3) Flipping the screen around is good to protect the screen or avoid the distraction but as a camera that is clearly focused on stills and not video I'd definitely prefer a tilting screen. 4) After using the fuji x70 I really miss having the physical dial for shutter speed and the aperture ring. I know M43 lenses are aperture-by-wire but Panasonic made it work and dedicated shutter speed and ISO dials would really be nice for those of us who prefer the more traditional/tactile controls. 5) The Pen F isn't one of the models that works with the Windows/Mac apps to allow webcam use (though without USB power or battery grip it wouldn't be very useful even if it was). All that said - for an EDC I usually reach for my x70 because it is physically smaller, has physical controls I prefer and can charge via USB. Sadly, this means the Pen F usually only sees action when the x70s biggest downside is a problem - the 28mm equiv on the Fuji is boring and too similar to my phone - the Pen F can be paired with the 20mm 1.7 pancake for my preferred 40mm equiv or any of my other M43 lenses for versatility the x70 simply can't compete with - though the physically larger lenses aren't a great match.

@they-shoot-film-dont-they 5 месяцев назад

Olympus did an excellent job of keeping the retro feel of both the Pen F Digital and the OM-D cameras.... Love em!... I did select the OM-D E5 M111 because I do like the look of it, as I compare it to my OM-1 SLR. Retro all the way. The Pen F is really nice ...great Black and White and Art functions. But, FYI...the same BW feel can be had on the OM-D 5 etc as one adjusts the shadows and highlights settings in the OM-D and, I like the idea that the my OM-D was new as I believe it was manufactured in 2021- 2022 or so. But wow, great cameras...both have compactness although the PEN F is smaller...both have Art features...both have 20mp ....it really comes down to style. And the Zuiko Lens'....oo la la! Why would anyone buy a Leica:-) So it comes down to: Does one prefer the old Pen F retro feel or the old OM1 retro feel?

@pgy8863 8 месяцев назад

Hold off, rumour has it that a v2 is coming and if it's the same with infamous Oly weathersealing, it'll be insanely popular.

@grantrobertdavies 8 месяцев назад

YES - Good Call - I think I'll Wait Off a bit longer :)

@HoLeeChit11 5 месяцев назад

When?

@raytbrown2 2 месяца назад

Update (as I found an E-P7) -- NOT an E-PL# -- so not the light line . . . I am totally with you . . . but suggest finding the E-P7 vs the Pen-F. Buy the Pen-F so you have it and can love looking at it (I have one too) but the E-P7 is better for your desire to use it for street. It just is. The Pen-F is heavy. The E-P7 is feathers and feels half the size. Otherwise, they're exactly the same. Same sensor as the EM1-III.

@SzymonPytel 4 месяца назад

If om system give this with dual card slot and im in. I want such camera for weddings, session. But i want this control over jpg look in camera. And its small factor.

@ThorstenDeVries 7 месяцев назад

I just ordered a used Pen F but haven't received it, yet...and for almost exactly the same reasons you mentioned: more personal photography and more street. I'm very excited about if and how this camera will influence my habits. Also about just handling it 🙂

@grantrobertdavies 7 месяцев назад

Hope you enjoy it!

@decongeniato 8 месяцев назад

Gx9 owner here (Pan 15mm 1.7; Sigma 30mm 1.4). The only Olympus model i could use is Em 10, because the flip up screen indeed.

@NPJensen 8 месяцев назад

I believe Minolta pioneered image stabilisation before Konica Minolta sold off their camera division to Sony. But, if I had the funds, an all black Pen-F would be on my list. The Panasonic Lumix GX8, I currently use does seem to be the slightly better camera, so I'm fine with not having a Pen-F, and I'm more inclined to go for an EM5 III as my good Olympus M4/3 camera. I do have other Olympus cameras, and they all render beautifully.

@mperales16 2 месяца назад

Amateur photographer here, I have a G9 and a Pen F, awesome opinions here and this is mine, the number one reason to buy the Pen F is the retro style, you will FEEL different because it is different, people notice you and your camera but in a good way, I have been questioned and complimented multiple times about the camera, even by photographers, it’s just an awesome and capable piece of hardware to carry around, I have the 17,25,45mm and the Pro 12-40mm but mostly use the Pro 12-40mm and the 17mm.

@dunsunyt 7 месяцев назад

By the way, nice lens choices. Even though I prefer Panas 9mm 1.7 to Oly 12mm since it's wider.

@thedarkslide 7 месяцев назад

I got both the silver and black Pen F. If you want one, don't wait for long, prices will only go up.

@grantrobertdavies 7 месяцев назад

Yes - I think They are already out of my price range...

@jackslater8688 7 месяцев назад

I wamt one too.

@margaretcopeland1055 3 месяца назад

I just bought an Oly Pen-F today. I have the Lumix G9ii which I use for bird photography with long lenses, anything zoom. But I also have quite a few primes and vintage lenses. For walk around I wanted a 2nd camera body so I could load a different lens and/or carry both at the same time. I don't do very much video and if I did I'd have great options on the G9ii. I might be wrong but is the Pen-F the smallest MFT camera that allows you to switch out the lens?

@dunsunyt 7 месяцев назад

Hi, I have owned both of these. I was shooting GX9 for 2 years (is sold now) and Pen F for 4 years. GX9 is a better street camera since it starts faster, has better AF and it has flipout screen. But Pen F is a cult. You can enhance it with a sofr release button, add some leather case and you have the best looking m43 camera. I also love Olympus dials (metal and really amazing feel to them). Altogether I prefer shooting Pen F. If it only had a better AF then it would be absolutely the best camera out there (I also shoot Fujifilm). Cheers.

@kingy2063 5 месяцев назад

I too am a GX9 owner, and a long time M4/3 advocate, and, like yourself, have been drawn to the Pen-F. Based on the reviews I've read and my self acknowledged periodic suffering of GAS (I thought the GX9 had cured me 😂) I find it difficult to justify the additional expenditure (£780-880 secondhand in the UK). However, there is something about this camera, and in my case, it is the aesthetics which I found so appealing. I do have the 17 + 45mm Olympus lenses, so maybe I could kid myself that they deserve the Pen-F. I look froward to seeing how you get on on. All the best and happy shooting.

@redneckrosey8221 2 месяца назад

Best street camera I’ve owned, I wouldn’t sell mine for $1000.

@thisdadslife8957 7 месяцев назад

For a street camera, I think the GX9 is a better choice: faster start-up, power switch on right side, flip-up rear screen. Pen-F looks the part but functionally I think it isn't as suitable for street as the GX9.

@waginglove 4 месяца назад

You are forgiven, but we have our eye on you . . .

@adambreuse1875 2 месяца назад

I had it but sold after less than half a year.... Why? I had the silver model... looked too much like a jewel and the rotating screen annoyed me. So what was the other option ? The e-p5. Heavier and small, therefore more substantial, better build, this including the battery door which is flimsy on the Pen-f. The e-p5 has better lines, more streamlined. The features I am missing on the e-p5 are art mode called "bleach bypass" and keystone compensation

@grantrobertdavies 2 месяца назад

I’d like to get an E-P5 too :)

@allanc803 8 месяцев назад

Once again another great video. I recently bought a second hand Pen-F, all be it I might have paid too much but it only had a shutter count of 94 (so brand new). I use it all the time with the 17mm 1.8, 4mm 2.8 fisheye 7Artisans and the allrounder 14-42mm ez lenses. The best black and white profiles around. Get a Lucky leather camera strap (20mm) and all of a sudden you are walking around with a fantastic retro camera. However any camera that takes a photo is a good camera. Best of luck in your shopping.

@grantrobertdavies 8 месяцев назад

Thank You - That’s Awesome:)

@Gregulah 8 месяцев назад

I have the 12-40 Pro and an E-P5 (along with an E-PM2 and EM5.3, Olympus fan) I find its a great versatile lens but feels a bit awkward on the E-P5 which is a similar size to the PEN F from what I've seen in comparisons. Looking forward to seeing videos of the PEN F when you get one and hearing if you end up getting the pro lens again. PEN F has been on my radar for a while but the prices they go for to this day has kept me from buying. I've recently completed the 17/25/45 Olympus lens trinity (adding the 25 to replace the lumix 25/1.7). 25/50mm is my favourite by far and has replaced the pro lens as the lens that lives on my EM5. Will be interesting to hear what you settle on for your go to (Olympus) street lens.

@grantrobertdavies 8 месяцев назад

Yeah - They are pricy… That keeps me from purchasing one too :)

@matthiasbruns8570 7 месяцев назад

The PEN-F does not pair well with the 12-40 2.8 out of the box. It doesn't even sit flat on the desk when that lens is attached. I recommend an additional grip when you add that lens. But if you do so it is a great combo. I got my grip from eBay, but not the original one.

@h.stsang6617 6 месяцев назад

Perhaps, OM can have a High Speed Pro-line camera like OM-1 and a High Res line camera (Pen F).

@video-carl 8 месяцев назад

It's great to hear you talk about the business aspects of your channel. I think you mentioned fuji but wanted to stick with M43, as you thought that would make growing your channel easier - you may be right! :) Here in the UK, a well-used E-P5 goes for £160 whereas a Pen-F, in good condition, starts at £700. Perhaps you could test this business idea by starting with an E-P5 and that Olympus 17mm? I've recently gone from an E-M1 i to G9 and I love the menus of the G9, the battery life, ergos and that 20MB sensor. I'd like the next GX9 to use my G9 batteries :) But if I don't get a GX9 then a Fuji or used A7C would compliment my large G9. Good luck with your decision.

@markhoffman9655 8 месяцев назад

LOL- had the opposite experience - went from E-M5 MkIi to a Lumix GX80 - the worst menu and on screen controls I have ever experienced in nearly 20 years of digital - worse than Sony! Sold it and replaced with a PEN E-PL9 - oddly crippled functionality as regards the electronic shutter but at least I can understand it!

@DivisionStreetDrums 2 месяца назад

I am a Olympus EM1 mkiii for my work, I like you use a Lumix GX9, I adore that camera because of the size and the viewfinder. I also want a Pen F but they are so expensive used and have not found the right one yet. I want to get the 100 -400 lens before I purchase another body. Great video Grant.

@grantrobertdavies 2 месяца назад

thank you :)

@normstangl3499 6 месяцев назад

I’m an Olympus EM1.3 user. I love the look of the Pen F, but if I had a choice between the Pen F and the GX9 I’d swing toward the GX9. The availability of an EVF always wins for me.

@halz7 8 месяцев назад

I picked up a nice Pen F from MPB for under $1000 U.S. I really love it. When they stopped making it I kicked myself for not getting one. My personal “holy grail” of lens are the Olympus 12-40mm 2.8, the Panasonic 42.5mm 1.7, the Olympus 17mm 1.8, the Panasonic 14mm 2.5, and the Panasonic Leica 9mm 1.7.

@grantrobertdavies 8 месяцев назад

Awesome :)

@aaronenglish2638 6 месяцев назад

I have had a Pen-f since release. I would agree with others that it is slow to start up and generally slow in operation. Viewfinder sucks. That said, I have used the Pen-f for a great variety of photography styles. Street, travel, landscape, etc. I have taken the Pen-f camping and backpacking and have had it out in the rain and snow with no issues. Build is great. Size is great, looks great. If I were going to be buying a used Olympus camera in 2024 it would be the EM1-MK3. In my opinion, better than the Pen-f in every way, except size and looks.

@photographyforenjoyment 7 месяцев назад

Just get one Grant..! No "ifs', no 'buts', just do it. If retro is your thing then the Pen F really does rule the roost (OK maybe together with certain Fuji and Nikon offerings) in a superb compact street shooting Tasmanian Devilish way. So it's not perfect (no camera is) but the benefits far outweigh the flaws. When I tell you that MY only criticisms are the rather flimsy battery door, poor placement of the tripod bush, and the awkward nature of flipping out the flippy screen, then you will understand I love it - period.

@streetnegative 8 месяцев назад

The camera performs superbly and complements the 15mm Leica 1.7 lens well. Sometimes I pair it with my Pentax lenses, even though they weigh roughly four times more than the Pen F. The thumb rest grip on my unit detached after numerous adjustments of the flip-out screen, but I found a solution by buying adhesive leather from Amazon and mending it on my own. Despite this, I love using the camera due to its lightweight nature, and I have no regrets about buying it, especially since I got it for around $825.

@grantrobertdavies 8 месяцев назад

That's awesome :)

@talonquarles5879 2 месяца назад

I actually have one with a few lens and a flash one of the lens is about 12 inches i dont know much about it would love some more info on it and maybe find a buyer that would actually appreciate it

@alanneilson6811 8 месяцев назад

Hi Grant another enjoyable video, I have owned a Pen F for about just over 2 years now, put in a cheeky bid on Ebay and was successful. It is a lovely camera to use and I do mainly use it for when I am out and about doing urban / street photography. Mine did come with an L grip but I got leather half case which I think looks great. I have used zooms but mainly stick with primes which is the two that you mentioned the 12 F2 and 17 F1.8. and they all live in a Think Tank Retrospective 5 bag. If I feel that I might need a little bit more reach I will use my Lumix 1.4 25mm. I always shot Raw I have used the B&W mode a few times and the colour mode once when the dial got moved and I didn't realise :) I do enjoy using it along with other mu43 camera Lumix and Olympus it might be starting to show it's age but if you do get one you will enjoy.

@grantrobertdavies 8 месяцев назад

Thank You... :) Thats awesome feedback

@normstangl3499 7 месяцев назад

I shoot m43. I have an Olympus E-M1 Mk III. Call me old school but I just can’t get around the lack of an EVF such as the GX series of cameras. I’ve always admired and even lusted after the PEN F, but that lack of EVF is the challenge for me. I’m a generalist when it comes to my choices of photography, but I’ve never felt that my E-M1 Mk III couldn’t cut it. I find the 12-40 is a workhorse in ,ost situations and my 20mm f1.7 and 25mm f 1.8 are there for low light. The 20mm may seem redundant but it can be a godsend in smaller spaces sometimes. I hope the PEN F exceeds your expectations and meets your needs. I don’t think that you can go too far wrong.

@MacroTh3ory 2 месяца назад

I fancy a Pen-F as well. The used price is just sickening though.

@Deetroiter 5 месяцев назад

Not a Pen-F, but to a Lumix GX80/85, I’m new to the MFT system. I’ve had everything from Nikon to Pentax to Leica etc…honestly, I wish I checked out MFT sooner. What a shocker and eye opener what the system is capable of for a fraction of the price compared to what else is out there. In recent years, all the manufacturers are chasing this super sharp and sterile look. It’s gotten to the point you can buy brand and the pictures practically look all the same. With this Lumix, and other Olympus, cameras there still has a high quality look to the pictures but it retains a certain realness to them, as well. The pictures don’t come out looking fake and over sharpened, etc. Great video and I’ll have to learn more about the Pen-f!

@grantrobertdavies 5 месяцев назад

Awesome Stuff … Thank you :)

@rwpowers6690 6 месяцев назад

I've been lusting after a Fuji x100F or x100V for the last year. Gear acquisition syndrome. Instead I'm rediscovering my Olympus Pen F. Just saved $18,000,000 dollars. Thanks for the video.

@grantrobertdavies 6 месяцев назад

Good choice!

@jeffslade1892 8 месяцев назад

Lenses - Panasonic lenses seem to work better on an Olympus back than Olympus lenses do on a Panasonic back. Example - if you have the X12-35/2.8, you do not want the Olympus 12-40/2.8 (the X12-35 will go Dual and DFD on your GX9, the Ollie will not). The X12-35 is a lens I regularly fit to the PEN-F, alternatively the pancake-folded PZ14-42 also an X-lens and best of the little zooms. The X-lenses were Panasonic showing off their better-than-Leica pro cine lens capability. Small issues. The Leica 25mm f/1.4 can hunt in C-AF a little on the E-M5ii but locks instantly in AFC on the G7, that will be the DFD difference. The must-have Ollie 45mm f/1.8 can also hunt in C-AF. There again the PZ14-42 lives on the E-PL7 and has no problems. FWIW my carry is the tiny E-PL7 from the same era of tech as the PEN-F. Mr.Wong thought it perhaps a better street camera than the GR III; more lenses, tilt screen (and a good strong one), add-on EVF, all the functions you could never want, basically a miniaturised E-M5ii.

@Lucianohlegomocs 3 месяца назад

I am originally was settled on the pen f but i think i am gonna go for a pen e-p7 (a little cheaper and better video features) does anyone have one?

@artopullinen1529 5 месяцев назад

WANT Pen-F II definitely

@HoLeeChit11 5 месяцев назад

Good luck with that 🤔

@AnakChan 2 месяца назад

I've had the PenF since Feb 2016 (upgraded from GX1) and it's my holiday play/smash/crash camera. Unlike my former Olympus film SLRs, I don't have any Zuikos but stuck to my Panasonic m4/3 and use only the 20/1.7 and 14/2.5 pancake lenses with my PenF. I found the Zuikos to be larger at the same FL. The opposite of you, I've been wondering in 2024 if I want to dump all t hat for the X100VI with the reason that my PenF is over 8 yrs old and am keen on something newer. However, is the old PenF tech holding me back wanting something new? Nope. PenF has still served well in the past 8 yrs

@grantrobertdavies 2 месяца назад

Yeah man :) Go for it ... Change is good :)

@artsilva 4 месяца назад

I too have been looking at the Pen-F for some years now. I have the fuji versions (X-E1, X-E2S, XPro2, X100T) but I am willing to trade all those in, except the XPro2, for the Pen-F for featured reasons and size, as close as they are but the Pen-F is slightly smaller, plus the IBIS and the lenses are hard to beat. I am a RAW shooter who likes to work my colors in post process anyways so color science is no biggie for me as long as the colors are accurate, however I do love me a rich and brilliant monochrome engine which I think the Pen-F would have.

@marc-vk4qp 5 месяцев назад

I've owned the PEN-F since 2016 and it's always in my bag. Perfect for travel and street photography with the Zuiko 17mm f1.8 and the Monochrome profile 2 is awesome. I will keep and use until it dies. I am not affected by GAS. I just replaced my old Oly E-M5 (2012) with a Lumix G9 Mark II.

@grantrobertdavies 5 месяцев назад

Awesome! Yeah man, I get people commenting about GAS all the time!!! LOL - They just got nothing else to do!!!

@waynesmith3074 8 месяцев назад

Only problem with olympus pen F very expensive in Australia selling for $1500 up

@grantrobertdavies 8 месяцев назад

Yes - Very Much So!!!

@vic_the_roman 8 месяцев назад

Geez. Been wanting one since it's release but man, still expensive. 😎 Side Quest: I had to Google about IBIS and as much as I was rooting for Olympus to be the 1st to do it ( because they were innovators 💯❤) the grand prize goes to Konica Minolta with the Maxxum 7D DSLR back in 2003.

@grantrobertdavies 8 месяцев назад

Great Info about the IBIS - Yeah still a bit too expensive - that's what really holds me back too $$$

@eldontyrellcorp 2 месяца назад

I picked one 2 months ago, just to travel more lightly (I went to Japan / Korea). Well this is a game changer ! For street photography, this works very well. Let's be clear, the quality of the photos taken with my Nikon d7200 are much better, but I was able to take some great shots with it, and the lenses are very affordable. I recommend it to travel light, but if you want top notch picture quality, this will disappoint you (a LOT of noise even at low iso settings).

@throughtanlens 7 месяцев назад

I have PenF (Black) and most of thr time sit inside the box... for my street i prefer Em10/5

@GabrieleLopez 7 месяцев назад

who knows if Om-System is actually looking at this video. I am a nikon dslr shooter for work, but for my own uses, and even as a light backup in some work, the micro43 system is just perfect and way more funny. A new Pen-F would be really a master camera....

@davidlimth 7 месяцев назад

i bit the bullet and just snap up (pun intended) a pen f almost mint (sc109) with the m.zuiko 17/1.8 for usd930 (waiting to collect). i held my friends pen f and knew in an instance this was my camera. Sold off my A7ii and while waiting for A7c2 price to drop, i will be playing a lot with the pen f thro 2024. btw, is the camera great for landscapes and astrophoto? where can i find online the manual as this is missing

@andrewtsaocreative 3 месяца назад

I have been a PEN E-PL1 user for a long, long time. Just upgraded to a PEN F and it is the best photo decision I’ve made. MFT is an underrated format but I’m a big fan.

@grantrobertdavies 3 месяца назад

Yeah :) Awesome Cameras 📷

@alvaro5162 6 месяцев назад

The Pen F does not fit in a pocket, that is for me one of the two cons for using it for street. The other is the AF system, far from what the M5 MarkIII or the Panasonic GF7 can do. Point in favor, people find it a "nice" camera and many think that it is analogue which makes everyone around you have a more relaxed attitude, to achieve this the silver one is better over black one.

@user-em6ny6dr1o 7 месяцев назад

I have had my Pen F for years, and love it. I have used the Oly 12 F2 and 17 1.8, but much prefer the Panasonic 15 1.7(fantastic), the Oly 25 1.8, and the Sigma 56 1.4. You should pick up a Pen F - it is soldly built, the jpegs are amazing. I have the L grip and like it a great deal. Good luck!

@patternsinsand 6 месяцев назад

Agree with most of your points here. The IBIS and tactile quality of the camera are a boon and the sensor still stands up. The lack of weather sealing isn't a deal breaker but has to be mentioned when talking build quality. Fortunately my own Pen F has survived being dropped on concrete. I'm less fussed about the JPEG engine, though I still think even in RAW, the Olympus produces nicer colours than the equivalent Panasonics. Great video - I've done a similar review on my own channel comparing it to my mini. Fact is, it's fun!

@grantrobertdavies 6 месяцев назад

Thank's for the feedback :)

@Prozimi 8 месяцев назад

Hello, I have been following your channel for a while. You are doing an excellent job. I think the way you speak and gesture is excellent. My question to you on this topic, and I know you have many cameras. Do you need a new camera or do you want a new camera? Too much stuff is counterproductive. But that's just my opinion.

@grantrobertdavies 8 месяцев назад

no I don’t need a new camera

@gregmarcus3064 Месяц назад

too expensive!! get a Nikon ZF. retro with the latest modern tech. Cheaper and is brand new!

@trollslag 3 месяца назад

I personally adore my pen f.I often feel i dont need another camera than my Pen f. I am curios if there will be or if it exist, a follow up camera to pen f. Do you know?

@user-wv5lx5cl7v 3 месяца назад

Not needed. See above.

@gjhhj6y 6 месяцев назад

Might be alone here, but the side-flip on the pen-f isn't great for quick and discrete street shots. Maybe fine for video and selfies, but no for basic photog needs.

@Paulstluke 2 месяца назад

I’ll stick with. My Nikon DSLR, and not waste money on the tech trip

@grantrobertdavies 2 месяца назад

Ok - good for you bro

@angelisone 5 месяцев назад

ATG & I knew the beginners/amateurs want video over still & higher meg which this don't. m4/3 will become 4/3 dues to dated mega pixels. A 50Meg plus is needed with 4k videos

@grantrobertdavies 5 месяцев назад

Ok 👍

@donaldpirie5485 7 месяцев назад

Thanks for yet another interesting video. A few years ago, i lusted after a Pen F - who wouldn't? I borrowed my friends for a few days and tried it out along with a GX9. On that 8:51 occasion my head ruled rather than my heart and I bought a GX9. The GX9 was a better device in every way. I still crave a Pen F though! For the reasons you outline, it is still a gem worth cherishing.

@aaronhayman8558 7 месяцев назад

I have one and it's definitely a really beautiful camera and I like the ergonomics as long as I have an accessory grip attached, which are cheap, doesn't add too much bulk or ruin the look of it. The focusing though isn't great and other cameras have better specs for that. It's also not weather sealed and that's a big disadvantage for me as I really like the piece of mind to shoot the thing in any conditions. It's also more expensive than a lot of what I'd consider to be more capable cameras. I think the real reason to own one is not just the JPEG quality, which is likely similar to other Olympus cameras but that it's got some unique features for manipulating the settings for JPEGs on the go (that I don't see as being similar to anything else). Unfortunately, I'm a dedicated RAW shooter so the JPEG features mean nothing to me and it's a bit frustrating that Olympus never made any kind of firmware mod that allows one to reprogram the JPEG features (primarily with a wheel on the front of the camera) for use with other functions. Other than the looks and the specialty JPEG features, I would say that the camera is overpriced and under featured/under speced. The EM-1 mkII has the same 20 mpx sensor, better specs and is weather sealed. It is a bit larger, but still not anything like super-bulky, is considered to be far more robust and has a better grip built in. I'd love to do a straight up trade for one of those for my Pen F as I think that it's an all around better camera and I would be using it for street photography too...

@grantrobertdavies 7 месяцев назад

Yes I think You might be Correct :) Good feedback :)

@andyt3947 5 месяцев назад

I bought my Pen-f 3 or 4 years ago through MPB. I had to look hard and long to tell that it was even used. I love the looks of it, I got the silver and black with the 14-42 silver lens as well. It's lightweight and just large enough to fit in your hands nicely. As mentioned, many customizable features as well. I find the image quality very good, the 4/3rds factor being no problem. You should buy one.

@grantrobertdavies 5 месяцев назад

:) Yes, I just got one :)

@user-wv5lx5cl7v 3 месяца назад

In fact, 4 x 3 aspect ratio is the true painterly format so that Olympus, like most medium-format cameras, supports production of imagistic resources for subsequent studio painting. In general, 3 x 2 aspect ("full-frame") wastes a third of the conceptually usable image space.

@user-wv5lx5cl7v 3 месяца назад

Mr. Davies and viewers are underrating the PEN F as merely a street camera. The PEN F is the best small camera ever made and needs no improvement as long as batteries are made to support it. The PEN F very easily supports production of 16x20 prints as long as the entire frame is utilized. Davies does well running down the obvious things but the PEN F is capable of true depth and breadth. The amazing "time-composite" ("TC") mode is something only Olympus cameras can do, though it is best exploited using an extreme ND filter and a tripod. The Olympus 8-25 mm f/4, an M. Zuiko gem, is fantastic on the PEN F for landscape and architecture (esp. TC). For unmodified IR photography, though, the early EM1 Olympus (16MP) is better than the PEN F due to ghosting.

@grantrobertdavies 3 месяца назад

I’m not saying it Can’t mate, it’s an awesome camera for everything!

@Jonathan-hu3lk 7 месяцев назад

I’ve previously owned an Olympus pen f. It’s a great camera, but over priced IMO. Although, I may be jealous as I got mine secondhand when prices were pretty decent (about the same price you’d get a gx9 for secondhand these days) and I sold it for about the same. But prices, at least in the UK, have sky rocketed since then. I’d be hard pressed to justify one these days given the gx9 is on the market which is much cheaper and does a lot of the same stuff.

@StephenStrangways 6 месяцев назад

Tilt screens are great for high or low-level shots... if you only ever shoot horizontal photos. If you want to shoot a vertical photo from a different level, flip-out screens are the only way to go.

@koostory1776 6 месяцев назад

How does it perform with manual focus lens?

@grantrobertdavies 6 месяцев назад

fine, I’d think - someone in the comments might know :)

@valdiskrebs1670 3 месяца назад

I have several of the TTArtisan manual focus lenses -- the 25mm and 50mm are a great combo. They look amazing and soooooo retro with the Pen-F. Results are great even at f/2, but f/5.6 to f/8 these lenses are razor sharp... each costs < $100. The 35mm f/1.4 from TTArtisan is probably their best lens for image quality -- also small and pretty on Pen-F bodies and < $100.

@carmentan1 Месяц назад

Arghh, Pen F for EP7 ?😢😢😢

@carmentan1 Месяц назад

Or*

@ralphmichaelferraro2398 6 месяцев назад

ask OM systems to update the pen F

@Ralph7D 5 месяцев назад

Well - you will not get it for it’s AF. It’s terrible. Too bad since it looks so god. But a good looking camera isn’t much to have if one comes home with a bunch of out of focus images.

@grantrobertdavies 5 месяцев назад

I got one a week ago... Having no issues with the auto focus at all .... Even in quick paced environments

@jefflaitila9799 3 месяца назад

I wish they had not put a fully articulated screen on the pen-f. Flip up screens work a lot better for photography.

@user-wv5lx5cl7v 3 месяца назад

Get yourself an older Olympus EM1, which has the exact flip-up screen you like and plenty of resolution, plus a constellation of available adjustments. The EM1 is also unexcelled in unmodified IR photography using deep-red filter and a tripod.