Recently I started a new project, namely Blueprint, it’s among other, finding alternative accessories for Olympus cameras and lenses,
but also research into the best possible camera settings such as the article E-M1 Mark II Bird and Wildlife Settings.
There have been some private comments on it, and instead of answering them separately I’ll do so here in a new blog post.
The reason is because in my opinion the reactions do not specifically target my article, but also articles and guidelines in general of fellow photographers.
It’s true that every photographer is unique and has their own individual qualities and vision when it comes to photography. The choice between shooting in RAW or JPG is a perfect example of the different approaches photographers can take. Some prefer the flexibility and control offered by shooting in RAW, while others appreciate the convenience and smaller file sizes of JPG.
Camera settings, including those specific to certain camera models like the E-M1, can also vary greatly among photographers. There’s often no definitive “best” setting, as it depends on individual preferences, shooting style, and the specific subject or situation being photographed. As mentioned, discussions and disagreements are common in this area.
However, articles or guidelines on camera settings can be valuable resources for photographers of all skill levels. They can provide insights, ideas, and techniques that you may not have considered before. By learning from the experiences and perspectives of other photographers, you can adapt and refine your own settings to suit your specific needs and preferences.
As a perfectionist, I have taken the time to explore and compile different setups and settings used by other (Olympus Pro) photographers. This research can provide valuable information and inspiration for others who may be looking to improve their own photography or discover new ways of utilizing their camera’s capabilities.
Remember, photography is an art form, and there’s no single “right” way to approach it. Embrace the diversity of opinions and perspectives, and use them to enhance your own skills and creativity.
Regards,
Marc.
The photo gallery of Open Source Photography, Olympus micro 4/3 system, Vintage Lens Photograpy, Film Simulation, PictureFX, HDR – Photographer : Marc R.
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Hi Marc, My favourite “alternative” Olympus lens is the tiny Laowa 7.5mm f2.0. While it’s manual focus and I don’t use it a lot, it is great for wide landscapes, astro-photography and even wide angle close-ups. I love it because it is so small and feels like a toy, though it has all metal construction, feels well built and takes great images for a relatively budget lens. It’s almost always in my bag or pocket because it is light and takes up very little space.
As far as settings, I make the most of the Olympus Custom Modes (C1-4) on the top right dial. Occasionally if I find a better setting I will re-save, but they are close to dialled in now. I won’t go into full detail here as it would take all night, but for both my OM-1 and Pen-F I have C1 set up for fast action like birds, animals, people and sport so it’s quick to get to and hopefully not miss any action, about the only one I have set for auto exposure (aperture priority) so I only have to adjust the speed if necessary. C2 is a base setup for macro focus bracketing with the 60mm lens – fungi etc. which I adjust to suit. C3 I have set for astro-photography – high iso, wide aperture, 20 sec. exposure as a base setup – makes it much easier when operating in the dark. C4 I’ve set up for flash use – not that I use flash much, but I know the settings will be close to right when I need to.
Though both cameras have different buttons and layout, they are similar enough to set them up similarly so if I don’t use one for a while, it doesn’t take too long to get the muscle memory going again.
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Hello Tone!
I also have a Laowa, but mine is the 10mm f2 zero D.
But what you describe is very recognizable, this lens is also small, full metal and well constructed. I would just, like you, have to take it more with me since it doesn’t take up much space anyway.
Your custom settings are also very interesting, very varied and a different preset for every circumstance, very well thought out!
I’ve let go of my interest in the Pen-F, as second-hand prices are still high here.
I did become interested in an E-M1X, because it also has bird recognition, and can be bought very cheaply second-hand here in Europe. Although I have to admit, I have the E-M1 MKII & III, and I use the MKII the most, great camera!
Thank you for your visit and comment, and take care Tone !
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Thanks for the response, I like to shoot a large variety of things. Mostly my camera is in full manual mode, but I found setting up the Custom settings very convenient in the field where you might be in a hurry or for often used base settings. They can be used in many ways as each one saves the full camera settings including button layout – it’s almost like picking up a different camera! For instance, in C1 I have buttons set up to switch from animal to bird etc. tracking and also face/eye detection, which is annoyingly separate to the other tracking modes. I did like the MKII, very nicely ergonomic.
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