OM System 40-150mm f/4 Pro Lens Review

TL;DR

Switching to OM System 40-150mm f/4 for better portability.

Transcript

hello and thanks for joining me for some more landscape photography now I've been in something of a quandary over the last couple of years when I started out with micro four thirds I was using the 12 to 100 F4 Pro pretty much as my only lens the problem with that was that when I was out in the Hills I found that very often 100 millimeters r... Read More

Key Insights

• The presenter switched from the Olympus 40-150mm f/2.8 Pro lens to the OM System 40-150mm f/4 Pro due to its lightweight and compact design, making it more suitable for mountain photography.
• Despite the smaller aperture, the new lens provides satisfactory image quality for landscape photography, particularly when used with wider prime lenses.
• Common complaints about the lens, such as the need to extend it for use and lack of a manual focus clutch, are deemed insignificant by the presenter.
• The absence of a programmable button on the lens is not a concern, given the customizable options available on Olympus cameras.
• The presenter values the new lens's ability to complement his existing prime lenses, enhancing his overall photography setup without adding excessive weight.
• Initial tests with the lens have yielded impressive results, reinforcing the decision to replace the heavier f/2.8 lens.
• The video includes examples of images captured with the new lens, illustrating its capability in landscape photography.
• The presenter encourages viewers to subscribe for future content and offers additional resources and workshops on his website.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why did the presenter switch to the OM System 40-150mm f/4 Pro lens?

The presenter switched to the OM System 40-150mm f/4 Pro lens because it is significantly lighter and more compact than the Olympus 40-150mm f/2.8 Pro lens. This makes it more practical for carrying during long hikes and mountain photography, without compromising on image quality.

Q: What are the presenter's thoughts on the lens's aperture?

The presenter acknowledges that the OM System 40-150mm f/4 Pro lens has a smaller aperture compared to the f/2.8 version. However, he finds that for landscape photography, the f/4 aperture is sufficient, especially when combined with wider prime lenses that he already uses for other focal lengths.

Q: How does the presenter address common complaints about the lens?

The presenter addresses common complaints by dismissing them as minor issues. For example, the need to extend the lens for use is considered trivial, and the lack of a manual focus clutch is not a problem since he uses back-button focus with manual override. The absence of a programmable button is also seen as irrelevant due to the customizable options on Olympus cameras.

Q: What initial impressions does the presenter have about the new lens?

The presenter is very impressed with the initial performance of the OM System 40-150mm f/4 Pro lens. After using it for just a short period, he is delighted with the image quality and the way it complements his existing prime lenses. The lens's lightweight nature makes it a valuable addition to his photography gear.

Q: What resources does the presenter offer for further learning?

The presenter offers several resources for further learning, including links to his website, where viewers can find full-resolution images, location guides, and details about photography workshops. He also provides links to his social media platforms, where he shares more about his photography experiences and equipment.

Q: How does the presenter feel about the weight of the new lens?

The presenter appreciates the significantly reduced weight of the OM System 40-150mm f/4 Pro lens, which is about half the weight of the f/2.8 version. This reduction in weight makes it easier for him to carry the lens during long hikes and ensures that he doesn't have to compromise on image quality while traveling.

Q: What is the presenter's opinion on the lens's lack of a programmable button?

The presenter considers the lack of a programmable button on the OM System 40-150mm f/4 Pro lens to be a non-issue. He believes that Olympus cameras offer ample customizable options, and the absence of a button on the lens itself does not affect his workflow or the usability of the lens.

Q: What does the presenter suggest for viewers interested in his photography content?

The presenter suggests that viewers subscribe to his channel for more photography content and visit his website for additional resources. He encourages viewers to explore his location guides, workshops, and detailed gear lists, which provide insights into his photography techniques and equipment choices.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The presenter discusses transitioning from the Olympus 40-150mm f/2.8 Pro lens to the OM System 40-150mm f/4 Pro, highlighting the benefits of a lighter, more portable lens for landscape photography in mountainous areas.

• Despite having a smaller aperture, the new lens meets the presenter's needs for quality and versatility, especially when paired with other prime lenses. Common criticisms of the lens are addressed and refuted.

• The video showcases sample images taken with the new lens and provides links to additional resources, including the presenter’s website, social media, and photography workshops.