Let’s be honest here, there is no perfect OM System lens. Bur, depending on what tyou shoot, there’s a bunch of stuff you gotta think about – like what focal length suits your shooting style best, how wide an aperture you need for getting blurred backgrounds and good seperation, and whether image stabilization is a must-have for formyou. Below I will outline some best of class lenses for OM systems. Just remember, the goal isn’t just snagging a new lens; make sure there is a good fit with your creative vision and style.
Best overall OM System lens – OM SYSTEM M.Zuiko ED 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO II
The OM SYSTEM M.Zuiko ED 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO II Lens shines as a stellar option for anyone wielding an Olympus camera, seeking a lens that hits the sweet spot of versatility, performance, and build quality. It captures landscapes, portraits, and everything in between, with stunning clarity and vibrant colors, thanks to a fast f/2.8 aperture throughout the zoom range. This makes it ideal for low light situations and for achieving that sought-after bokeh effect, where your subject pops against a softly blurred background. Its robust construction dials up its appeal, offering dust, splash, and freezeproof capabilities, ensuring it can withstand the unpredictable elements outdoor photography often presents. However, aficionados craving more reach or specializing in macro might find the 12-40mm range and 0.3x maximum magnification a tad limiting. Still, its merits far outweigh this minor hiccup, making it a compelling choice for both seasoned photographers and enthusiastic newcomers alike.
Main Features
Focal Length: 12-40mm, covering a wide to medium zoom range suitable for a variety of subjects.
Aperture: Constant f/2.8, enabling excellent low-light performance and depth of field control.
Lens Construction: 14 elements in 9 groups, including specialized elements to combat aberrations.
Coating reduces flare and ghosting for clearer, sharper images.
PROS
Exceptional optical quality across its zoom range.
Durable build, ready for adverse weather conditions.
Fast and accurate autofocus mechanism.
CONS
Lacks built-in image stabilization, relying on the camera body’s IS instead.
Some may find the zoom range limiting for specific photography needs.
Slightly uneven zoom tension, although this may improve with use.
Best budget alternative – Olympus M.Zuiko ED 12-45mm f4.0 PRO
The Olympus M.Zuiko ED 12-45mm f4.0 PRO Lens serves as an exceptional entry for those diving into the realm of Micro Four Thirds photography, especially for fans of the OM System. By packing premium optics into a compact, lightweight body, it strikes a balance that appeals to enthusiasts and seasoned pros alike who prioritize portability without compromising on image quality. It offers a versatile zoom range, making it perfect for everyday shooting scenarios, from dynamic landscapes to detailed close-ups. The constant f/4 aperture ensures consistent exposure across the zoom range while facilitating decent low-light performance. Nevertheless, its greatest strength—compactness and versatility—might be seen as a trade-off for those yearning for the shallower depth of field and bokeh that wider apertures provide.
Main Features
Compact and lightweight design, ensuring easy handling and portability.
Constant f/4 aperture across the zoom range for balanced exposure.
Weather-sealed construction protects against dust and splashes.
High optical performance with minimal distortion and flare.
PROS
Exceptional build quality, robust and weather-sealed for outdoor use.
Sharp and clear image quality, even at wide apertures.
Extremely lightweight and compact, making it a go-to lens for travel.
CONS
Limited aperture might not satisfy those seeking bokeh-rich portraits.
Some users report less smooth zoom action compared to other PRO lenses.
Lacks the reach for specialized photography like wildlife or sports.
Best OM System Zoom lens – OM System M.Zuiko ED 12-100mm f/4 IS Pro
Choosing the OM System M.Zuiko ED 12-100mm f/4 IS Pro lens seems like grabbing a swiss army knife for your photography toolkit. Imagine you’re setting off on an adventure, stepping into the unknown realms of forests, cities, or even the quiet corners of your local park. You’d want a companion that can effortlessly capture distant landscapes, zoom in on the details of street art, and encapsulate the delicate expressions of wildlife or portrait subjects, right? This lens grants you the power of versatility with its impressive 24-200mm (35mm equivalent) zoom range, ensuring you’re equipped for nearly any scene or subject. Add to this its robust build and sophisticated image stabilization, and you’ve got an all-in-one solution that thrives in the hands of travel and adventure photographers. However, note that its f/4 aperture may not be the fastest, potentially limiting its low-light capabilities compared to lenses with larger apertures.
Main Features
24-200mm focal range (35mm equivalent) for extensive versatility
Advanced image stabilization offering up to seven stops of compensation
Robust, weather-sealed construction suited for harsh conditions
Superb close focusing ability for macro photography
PROS
Exceptional zoom range covering wide to telephoto perspectives
Stellar image stabilization allowing for sharper handheld shots
Durable and weather-sealed, perfect for outdoor adventures
CONS
Maximum aperture of f/4, limiting performance in low-light conditions
Relatively heavy, potentially unbalancing smaller camera bodies
Premium pricing may place it beyond some budgets
Best OM System portrait lens – Olympus M.Zuiko ED 45mm f/1.2 PRO Lens
The Olympus M.Zuiko ED 45mm f/1.2 PRO Lens stands out as an exceptional choice for the discerning portrait photographer looking to harness the power of a Micro Four Thirds system. This lens offers a beautiful melding of impeccably sharp focus and a gorgeous “feathered” bokeh that allows subjects to pop with a three-dimensional quality rarely seen. It’s these qualities that make it ideal for portrait works, where capturing the nuanced expressions of the human face with crystal clarity while softening the background into a dreamlike haze takes precedence. However, it’s worth noting that this lens, with its professional-grade build and optical performance, does come with a heftier price tag—a potential drawback for those on a tighter budget.
Main Features
Exceptional optical performance with wide f/1.2 aperture.
“Feathered” bokeh for beautifully softened backgrounds.
Solid, weather-resistant construction.
Advanced lens elements and coatings for sharp, clear images.
PROS
Outstanding sharpness and clarity.
Beautiful bokeh perfect for portraiture.
Durable and reliable for rigorous use.
CONS
Premium price point may be prohibitive for some.
Larger and heavier than other prime lenses in its class.
Limited to portraits and specific types of photography.
Best OM System wide-angle lens – Olympus M.Zuiko ED 7-14mm f/2.8 Pro
For photography enthusiasts looking to delve into the expansive vistas of landscape photography or the dynamic energy of cityscapes, the Olympus M.Zuiko ED 7-14mm f/2.8 Pro Lens emerges as a stellar companion. You’ll find its ultra-wide angle capability a marvel, stretching your perspective to new horizons and embracing a field of view so wide, it revitalizes your frame with a dramatic essence. The constant f/2.8 aperture is a boon for low-light situations, lending versatility and granting the lens an edge over its counterparts. Yet, even with its pro-grade optical excellence, it remains moderately compact, encouraging you to take it along on every adventure. Imagine standing at the edge of a cliff, camera in hand, as this lens allows not just the landscape but the experience to unfold richly before you. However, it’s worth mentioning, the lens comes with a price point reflective of its professional status, which might stretch the budget for hobbyists and casual shooters.
Main Features
Ultra-wide 7-14mm focal range (14-28mm full-frame equivalent) capturing expansive scenes.
Bright f/2.8 constant aperture for consistent exposure across the zoom range.
Weather-sealed construction ensuring reliability in challenging environments.
Exceptional optical design for sharp, detailed images with minimal distortion.
PROS
Remarkable sharpness and clarity across the zoom range.
Robust build quality and weather resistance for durability.
Wide f/2.8 aperture supports low-light shooting and depth of field control.
CONS
Premium pricing could be prohibitive for some budgets.
Fixed lens hood design may limit filter use.
Heavier and bulkier than non-PRO wide-angle options, potentially affecting portability.
Best OM System wildlife lens – OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-600mm f/5.0-6.3 IS
The OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-600mm f/5.0-6.3 IS lens is an exemplary choice for wildlife photographers who champion the versatility and reach without the bulk and heft commonly associated with similar focal lengths on larger sensor platforms. Its expansive 150-600mm focal range, equivalent to an impressive 300-1200mm in 35mm terms, makes it uniquely suited for capturing distant wildlife in their natural habitats. The integration of optical stabilization is a game changer, facilitating the capturing of sharp, hand-held shots even at the telephoto end of the zoom. Additionally, the weather-sealed construction of this lens ensures it can withstand the elements, an essential feature for any wildlife photographer venturing into the great outdoors. However, prospective buyers should be mindful of its considerable cost, which might be a significant factor in their decision-making process.
Main Features
Vast 150-600mm zoom range, offering a powerful telephoto reach.
Integrated optical stabilization for improved image clarity.
Weather-sealed construction, ensuring durability in various outdoor conditions.
Adjustable zoom tension for tailored handling and operation.
PROS
Unmatched telephoto reach within the Micro Four Thirds system.
Optical stabilization aids in capturing crisp images without a tripod.
High-quality build and weather sealing protect against environmental challenges.
CONS
High price point could be prohibitive for some.
Optical performance may dip at longer focal lengths.
Significant weight and size could impact portability during extended shooting sessions.
Best OM System street photography lens – Olympus M.Zuiko 17mm f/1.8
Embarking on the path of street photography requires a lens that is not only versatile but also capable of capturing the vibrancy and spontaneity of city life. The Olympus M.Zuiko 17mm f/1.8 emerges as a strong contender, honored for its classic 34mm equivalent focal length which offers a natural field of view. Coupled with a wide f/1.8 aperture, it excels in low light conditions, granting you the freedom to shoot from dawn till dusk. Moreover, its snap ring for manual focusing brings a touch of tactile pleasure, making the shooting process both intuitive and engaging. Its metal construction exudes a premium feel, ensuring durability on your urban adventures. However, it’s important to recognize that despite its formidable strengths, this lens might not surpass the Olympian sharpness of some siblings in the M.Zuiko lineup, a caveat worth considering for the pixel peepers among us.
Main Features
Classic 34mm equivalent focal length for versatile street photography.
Wide f/1.8 aperture for low light capability and shallow depth of field.
Ring for manual focusing, enhancing user control.
Durable metal construction, reassuring in quality and longevity.
PROS
Ideal focal length for street photography.
Performs excellently in varied lighting conditions.
Premium build and design; a pleasure to use.
CONS
Sharpness may not match higher-end M.Zuiko lenses.
Priced higher than some comparable focal lengths.
Absence of built-in image stabilization might limit handheld low-light shooting
Best OM System macro lens – OM SYSTEM M.Zuiko ED 90mm F3.5 Macro IS PRO
The OM SYSTEM M.Zuiko ED 90mm F3.5 Macro IS PRO Lens establishes itself as an unparalleled choice for macro photography enthusiasts seeking to push the boundaries of close-up imagery. It’s highlighted by an impressive magnification capability, paired with a commendably long focal length that ensures you can maintain a respectful distance from skittish subjects, preserving their natural behavior for genuine captures. Moreover, the integrated image stabilization remarkably enhances handheld shooting, yielding sharp and steady images even at extreme close-ups—a boon for fieldwork where flexibility and responsiveness are key. Its robust build quality further assures durability, aligning with the adventurous spirit of macro photography by braving the elements confidently. However, for those whose photographic interests or budgets do not align with the high magnification and professional-grade features it offers, this lens may present an investment that exceeds their practical needs.
Main Features
Exceptional magnification for detailed macro photography.
A long focal length provides a comfortable working distance.
Advanced image stabilization for steady handheld shots.
Weather-resistant construction for durability in various environments.
PROS
Market-leading magnification capability.
Versatile for multiple photography genres beyond macro.
Robust build and weather resistance for outdoor use.
CONS
Potentially excessive for casual macro photography enthusiasts.
Higher price point may deter budget-conscious photographers.
Size and focus distance may challenge in tight spaces.
Conclusion
Concluding, the OM System offers a compelling array of lenses that cater to diverse photography needs, setting a high bar for quality and versatility. From the expansive scenic captures enabled by the M.Zuiko ED 7-14mm f/2.8 Pro, to the intimate and detailed worlds unveiled by the M.Zuiko ED 90mm F3.5 Macro IS PRO Lens, enthusiasts are spoilt for choice. The 17mm f/1.8 stands out as a street photography gem, striking a balance between functionality and portability. Each lens, with its unique strengths, underscores the system’s commitment to enriching the photographic experience. As we explore the capabilities and limits of these lenses, one can’t help but wonder—what creative boundaries might we push next?
