Hi Emilie, there are many reasons: 1. it's a ranger finder camera (OM system doesn't offer anything like that), 2. it's all metal with a very high quality (on the contrary, the OM5 is just plastic) 3. the B&W switch button 4. the possibility to create in camera presets for B&W (I think that's the only Olympus camera that has this feature) 5. It has a retro look (and lot of people likes the retro look), and the buttons are nostalgic 6. it's so small you can take it with you everywhere OM System would simply need to: - start building again PenF with the same HW the OM-5 has (same components) - no plastic, no changes to the body, just re-use the same thing they have already - create 5 small lenses: 12mm f/1.4, 17mm f/1.4, 25 f/1.4 (maybe a 45mm f/1.4?) with a real aperture ring, all metal - (also, OM System should listen to you more and start advertising OM Systems cameras for street photography as well :)) Such camera would sell much more than OM1-2.
It is mind blowing with how many people, who are CURRENT fans/owners of micro 4/3's gear, are asking for a follow up to this camera, and OM System seems to ignore this as a possibility. Maybe not everyone would agree, but I think MOST would be willing to "give up" the no screws/hidden screws for a weather sealed camera, similar metal build, modern sensor/features, and a current price with warranty. Not EVERYONE loves the front dial, but it gives jpeg shooters options that are in the same league as Fujifilm so I see it as important and something that more options could be added to. I think it would sell well within existing M43 users, and maybe even draw some new or returning folks in... yet it seems OM does not see any value in an updated version of this camera, which is such a missed opportunity.
Bang on. Give it the E-P7 handling and dial/switch arrangement (inc power switch) flip up screen with the tilt flexibility of the X-T5 and they surely have a winner.
If it has another piddly ass 20mp sensor, it won't sell. You're not going to turn heads or impress any NEW customer with a measly 20mp sensor when 24 is the absolute minimum for every other manufacturer, and especially when Fuji's XT-5, an APS-C sensor is 40mp and the direct competitor to a new PEN-F would be the X100 VI is ALSO 40mp. Also, all the old geezers that say "20mp is enough!" doesn't matter; again, new consumers don't care for 20mp. The other problem with a new PEN-F is that the current trend is what matters, and Fuji is killing it with the X100 cameras because of proper Film Simulation. You're not going to sell a vintage looking camera without vintage looking results. Next, the basics; USB-C charging needs to happen, menu UI needs to be used the same as it is from the OM-1, in-body panorama stitching needs to be implemented, one extra dial for a total of three, each one controlling ISO, Aperture and Shutter, all metal body; it needs to be premium, nobody cares or expects cheap plastics anymore especially for a borderline flagship camera and lastly; NEW LENSES. a TRUE pancake 35mm or 40mm f/1.8 to pair it with a vintage and compact street camera like the PEN-F is crucial. Put in IS for Sync-IS, improve the video and you've got a wicked compact hybrid camera. But also...Canon has the 28-70mm f/2 and the 24-105mm f/2.8, Tamron has the 35-150mm f/2-2.8 and even Sigma has the 28--105mm f/2.8.... where the hell is OM Systems with something like a 12-75mm f/2.8 IS Pro? WTF.
Pen-F is a keeper. No plans to sell my black version, bought in 2019. Even if OM Systems produces a Mk ii upgrade, which I strongly recommend to them, b/c I think it would be a blockbuster.
I bought a Pen-F in early 2020, it was my first micro four thirds camera. It kept me going during Covid lockdown, I took it with me on all my exercise walks, photographing my local area. The art modes are fun. I'm using an OM-D EM5 Mark III as my main camera now (weatherproof, which the Pen-F isn't), but I'm not selling my Pen-F, and I frequently use it when the weather is good.
A brilliant camera in my opinion. Was able to get mine at the start of this year, and I think it's just a fun street camera to use. For the right price it is definitely worth it.
Had mine a year now and really pleased with it. As you say it goes in the pocket with a small lens, I mostly have the 17 1.8 fitted as a general lens but also use a 45 1.8
Why is OM system not putting modern viewfinder, processor and sensor in and sell it a a Pen F mkii. Most recent pen cameras cannot compete with the looks of this camera.
I originally kept the Leica Summilux 25mm f1.4 on my Pen F all the time. But recently I have switched to the LUMIX 20mm f1.7 and have been pleased with the sharpness and the much smaller size.
Wonderful travel camera, my favourite lens for use with the Pen-f is the 17mm f1.8. The premium build, AF/MF clutch and DoF scale add more fun to the Pen-F experience, this lens also produces quite nice bokeh and sunstars. Another great lens for this camera is, of course, the amazing 75mm f1.8.
Fully agree! The 12mm F2 is, also a good match for the PEN-F because has a similar retro look as the 17mm F1.8. And the 45mm F1.8 is the perfect tiny portrait lens.
I eventually had to get the EM1iii to power my bigger lenses for nature photos, but I will never part with my Pen-F. Coolest looking camera. I use it with either the OG or I really like the 14-42 EZ lens, which I don't hear people talking about much, but I think it's very handy and great for jpeg b&w shots, esp with the built in lens cap.
I bought my PenF when it first came out. I already had some MFT lenses (Panasonic Leica series) from my video camera. So getting the PenF for still photography was excellent. I had the original film PenF from the 1960s, and love my “new” PenF digital camera. I got a Nikon Z6 when they came out, and since sold it, going back to the PenF. My favorite lenses Emily, are the Panny Leica 15mm and just purchased the new Olympus 20m prime, both are excellent for street photography. Cheers
I thought it was kind of expensive when it was released in 2016, so I decided to pass and stay with my EM-5.2. I then passed up opportunities to buy it refurbished from Olympus. What a maroon! The used prices now are as much or more than they were new. But I have to honest with myself: as appealing as it is to me, I'm not sure I'd use it all that much.
I use the EM5iii as my main MFT camera. It checks all the boxes and takes great images. I later found a used PEN-F and like the experience, but it's heavy, not weather-sealed and doesn't keep up with the EM5iii in terms of performance. I love the PEN-F, but it needs to be updated, weathersealed. I wish it were smaller and lighter, but for crying out loud OM, relaunch it and weatherseal it!
I love my Pen-F. Bought it a few years ago from MPB for around $800, in like new condition. I keep the 14-42 f/3.5 on it all the time, with the tiny auto-opening and closing lens cap. Truly a capable and tiny set-up.
Hi Emilie. I have been an Olympus user since 2014 [Nikon before that]. Having used many Olympus bodies I can say that my favorite was and still is the Pen F. I have 2 of them, a chrome one which has been well used and a black one which is still in the box not used. Yes, I love the Pen F so much. I do wish that Olympus had brought out a weather sealed version though, that would in my opinion be a good seller and has been asked for by many photographers. As far as lenses go for the Pen F, my favorite would be the 12mm f2, then the 25mm f1.8 as an everyday lens.
I bought a Pen F for my daughter-in-law as a Ph.D. graduation gift. It's the camera she wanted because of its excellent monochrome performance. She manages an archaeological dig in Pompeii, so I hope she's been using it there. I've had several rangefinder film cameras: Leica M-3, Canon P, Olympus 35 RC and XA, Zeiss Super-Ikonta B. I liked using them because of their quiet performance. Now, I have digital OM-1 and EM-5 III, and they are super quiet.
Hi Émilie. J'ai une Pen-F depuis plusieurs années et j’adore cet appareil. Peu à peu J'ai arrêté d’utiliser ma Canon car les résultats de la Pen-F étaient supérieures en qualité d’image. Mais surtout c'est le plaisir de sortir faire de photos. On part légers dans le sac et dans la tête. J'attends une version ii de la part de OM Système, et je ne suis pas le seul 😊
I too shoot birds w my OM-1. 6 months ago I bought a PEN-F and absolutely love it! I have the 12mm and 25mm lenses, and always carry this beautiful little camera with me! Thanks for your video- Yaay PEN-F!
I've owned this camera since it came out. It was the first 20 m. pixel camera Olympus made (followed quickly by the EM1-II that fall). It was also the first (and only) Pen camera with an EVF. I've bought and sold a lot of cameras over the years (including a few Pens), but I've never been tempted to sell the Pen-F. I think it's the feel of it in the hand, or something subjective like that. Perhaps now with the X-100 craze that has everybody maxing out their credit card, and the jpeg trend, OM Systems will make a Mark II. My suggestion for a street lens? The Panasonic 14mm 2.5.
Thank you for the suggestion. I appreciate it. We will see what OM SYSTEM will come up with next. I have to say that right now I am happy with what I have :)
It was discontinued when I wanted to buy. I imported a pen e-p7 from Japan instead. Yes It lacks the viewfinder. It was my first m43. I so enjoyed the light nature of the body and the lenses, I sold my Sony A7 III and heavy lenses to buy a OM-5 body. Now I have the sealing, the viewfinder and a fully articulating screen when I need. But here is the thing: I prefer the angled screen of E-P7 instead of fully articulating one of OM-5 on the street. The reason is simple: you can shoot holding the camera low without distracting your subject. Once you rise your camera to your eye level or open the flapping screen you become an obvious photographer in the eye of your subject. But hey, it's pure joy to shoot with OM. One tiny bag: One 15mm prime, one 12-45 zoom, one 15mm body cap. 2 bodies, four batteries: out!
Looks like a fun camera to shoot. My problem is that it's way overpriced for what you're getting. I think most people would agree that it's a $400-500 camera used.
I own my Pen-F since 2016, i aimed for a em10 mk II but i fell in love with the pen-f and bought it directly. My main camera is the om-1 but i will never sell the pen-f.
As a long time Panasonic user, I considered the Pen-F at one point. However, it got mixed reviews when compared with the competition (Lumix GX8, GX9). NO DOUBT, it has a very cute, classic design, but the slow AF and slow "click to clunk" time turned me off. I wish OM Systems would replace it with a thoroughly updated design (25MP sensor, PDAF, state-of-the-art IBIS, better electronic viewfinder, MUCH faster processor, downloadable LUTS, etc.
❤ Yes, it's a lovely camera. A camera that gives you unexpected joy is always a special gem. And this camera gives joy. Yes, OM System needs to start make Pen-F again. Updated with especially weather protection. I miss the camera so much.
I have a Pen f, a EP 5 and a pen do. EP 1 mk2 and TG6. Several Olympus film cameras as well. I have used Canon, Pentax and Mamiya cameras. The pen cameras and the TG are my favourite tools. Going from professional to retired pro has been limiting ($). But I am now enjoying the freedom to explore my creativity.
The PEN-F is an awesome camera and I have owned it since it came out in 2016. I use it primarily with the Zuiko 17mm f1.8 lens and it works great. It also works well with the 12-100 Pro lens.
I’d say “welcome to the club’, but I’m not (yet) a Pen F owner. Folks do seem to love this camera! Enjoy! Hey, hoping the upcoming OM Ambassador video session is part of an announcement for a Pen F Ii 😊, but will be equally pleased if it’s for an OM5 ii.
I usually keep my silver 17mm f1.8 on my silver Pen F, they just seem made for each other. My 17mm is one of the later ones, I know they don't have a perfect reputation but mine is brilliant. My favorite camera & lens combo.
i bought mine when it first came out in 2016 and i’ve worked with many other cameras as well since then (sony, canon, fujifilm)- the pen-f is my main now. aside from personal photography, i’ve used it professionally as well- portraits, products, publications, this hasn’t let me down. if you’re used to using manual lenses, the ibis truly is mind blowing and i’ve found new life with all of my film lenses. the monochrome 2 is hands down the closest look to tri-x i’ve seen in any camera- right out of the body there’s no need to even edit it if you got the exposure right. i’m tempted to buy a second one as backup before the price jumps too high
I’m envious of your purchase, I love the range finder style cameras. I went after a ‘cheaper’ lumix gx9 because but the pen was sooo expensive….but the old gx9 sells more than a new om5 too!…crazy!! Found an older gx85 instead for a third of the price of the gx9 😁…but, it’s not a Pen ☹️. Enjoy. Hopefully I’ll pick up a new mk2 version 🙏..
I started looking at cameras last yearafter not really doing any photography for years i feel i want a camera again. Whike looking at reviews someone metioned this camera as their favourite and that they eished they never sold theirs. Since then I've fallen in love with this camera and really eant to get one but ss i only really intend to own one camera I'm finding it jard to justify this being the one over say the OM5 you memtion.
I bought my PEN-F new in 2017 and am so happy that I never sold it. The 17mm f1.8 is the perfect match. Other great (compact) options are the 12mm F2, the 45mm F1.8 and the 75mm f1.8. None are weather resistant, but neither is the PEN-F. And maybe the 9-18mm zoom.
@@EmilieT I’m glad that @tizio54 mentioned the 75mm 1.8. It is an absolutely brilliant lens and works beautifully on the PEN-F. One of Oly’s sharpest lenses and barely bigger than the 20mm 1.4 PRO.
I sold all of my Canon digital gear and bought the Pen-F at the beginning of this year for travel photography and I absolutely love shooting with it. It really makes photography fun. I bought it second hand with the Olympus 12mm f/2.0 and the Olympus 25mm f/1.8 Lens. The 12mm I found great for street photography in tight Tokyo streets. I’ve just bought a Second hand Olympus 17mm f/1.8 and an Olympus 45mm f/1.8 Lens to round things off. I’m really enjoying the 17mm and I find the auto focus is quick and accurate even though there are some reports it has trouble searching for focus. I’ve only had time to do a few shots with the 45mm and I love the results. Everything fits into one very small camera bag light and easy. I do hope they bring out a Pen-f 2 with a tilt screen that would be fabulous. As for selling the OG I don’t think so, superb design never goes out of style and for me it’s like a timeless piece of art. I don’t think I’ve ever felt this way about a camera and I’ve had many.
@@EmilieT You'll find plenty of (much) cheaper alternatives from China on eBay, but most look awkward. Imagine glueing a block of wood to that camera: quelle horreur!
My main camera since 2018, together with a GX9. Get a leather jacket for the PenF, to improve holding and any small lens will do. This is a fun camera to use, not a "technical" product.
I hope you continue to join the Pen F. My recommendation would be to try the 17 mm f 1.8 prime. That’s the lens that I use most frequently on my Pen F.
What took you so long. I’ve had mine about 6 months now and absolutely love it! I recently bought the 12-45 f4 and I find it balances beautifully on the camera. Also the Panny 9 mm❤️ It’s just such a lovely camera too use, so much fun. I’ve got the EM1 mk2 but only use that for birding now with 40-150 f2.8👍👍 Enjoy😁😁
I've had the Pen F since it came out 2016. I love it. It is my go to camera for those grab shots that come up at home or just for a walk in the city. My favorite lens on mine is the 12-40 2.8 PRO but it does make the combination rather large. Other than that lens I do carry the 12mm, 17mm, 25mm and the 45mm primes. They are all small and will fit nicely in a coat pocket or small messenger bag . If they made a new version of it I'd probably not get it as mine just perfect as is
Hopefully you will share this experience and thoughts with OMDS, because none get the feeling that they are remotely interested in pursuing this avenue (or any other for that matter)!
Never owned one, out of my budget sadly, but I did get a EM5ii a couple of months back. My lens of choice is the Olympus 17mm F1.8. I've had it a few years now and it's the only lens I will never sell :)
Not sure who's buying this camera at that price but when we say we want a pen f2 we mean we want today's specs in the same body. I use the ep7 which is the plastic budget version. Since you are an ambasador you should tell them we want a pen f2
Bonjour , merci pour cette vidéo qui tombe à pic ! j'hésite entre un pen F et un om-5 pour leur légèreté ; pour le pen : aspect trop trop beau et pour l'om5 la tropicalisation. Suis nouvelle dans le mode 4/3 et perdue dans toutes les appellations alambiquées d'OM système, j'ai un fuji xe2 et souhaite encore m'alléger. Peut être aurais tu des idées conseils avisés à me proposer ? cordialement
Hello Emilie, this video was a Great surprise to me but Great fun. Yes, the PEN F is wonderful for street fotography, combined with small lenses. I use the Olympus17 mm 1.8, people get in contact and asked me about this Camera.
One big reason why I got an EM-5 Mk II instead of a Pen F was the weatherproofing. The PRO primes have weatherproofing while the f1.8's do not. But the latter are much smaller. So perhaps the 17 f1.8 would be a good match for your Pen. I think that 12 is a great choice too. I keep resisting the urge to get one because it would not give me much that my 12-40 doesn't already.
Wish list? Weather resist would be at the bottom of my wish list. It's a solution looking for a non-existent problem, like more pixels, like PDAF. PDAF is slower and does not work in low light, so any camera with PDAF has CDAF. PDAF is good for detect and tracking, to tell the camera where to focus, CDAF is always used to finalise focus lock because PDAF always has two focus solutions. A tilt monitor and a wide rubber eyecup accessory for the LVF. A finger grip lump on the front (get a good leather half case with a bulge). Maybe a mic-in jack. If you put the SEMA-1 on an E-PL7, there's your mic-in, and it's got a tilt monitor, and it takes the VF4 LVF, and it is tiny, I mean it's the really small sibling to the E-M5ii. The PEN-F is the cumulation of the E-PL7, E-M10ii, E-M5ii series. The PEN-F video capabilities are limited but the image and audio is good, it would be nice if a Rode could be used though. A pop-up flash for fill or wireless master, and the hot shoe. Bring back the AP-2 port.
While I don't have the coveted Pen F, I do have the Olympus PEN E-P5 which can be picked up for less that $400 on the used market. I love this camera as it is perfect for street photography or quick travel opportunities. While it has the older 16MP sensor it produces excellent images. The retro styling (especially the silver model) and use with the tiny but mighty f1.8 primes make for a wonderful experience. The E-P5 also has the dual dial configuration I like; very similar to its E-M5 or E-M10 bigger brother models. I shoot in RAW + JPEG using this camera and utilize the ART modes frequently to produce creative JPEGs but able to edit the RAW images if I want. The 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 EZ pancake zoom is another good lens choice to keep things very compact when the camera is off, but still pretty small when using the zoom. The flip-up screen on the back also allows for more 'incognito' shooting. I hope OM SYSTEM decides to produce a new line of PEN cameras. These are so fun to use.
I will highly recommend the Lumix GX-9 for the street, with faster focusing than a PEN-F. I was lucky enough to buy one with the 12-60mm kit lens, for under $1K new! Lens wise I have the Lumix Leica 15mm f1.7, Olympus 25mm, and 45mm, which are also excellent, along with 14mm Lumix inexpensive pancake lens, which i use on the Olympus Pen PL-8 all the time. The Lumix 30mm macro is sharp edge to edge, with no distortion, but is a tad longer. The Lumix 12-32, zoom is a tiny little and fun lens, but I rarely go zoom these days, so it sits on the shelf. Lumix 12-60mm is good enough, and of medium size. For street, the Leica 15mm is great, and the Olympus 25 is very good. The 45mm is a lot of zoom, and nice to use just to mix things up, now and then. The GX-9 Lumix, with a tilt-only screen, and fast focusing is a gem for the street. Panasonic camera + Panasonic lenses = fast and accurate single shot focusing. Looks wise -- nice enough. My Olympus Pen-PL-8, all metal design gets more compliments, and is fun to use of course, with good enough focusing. I would rate it overall a very good little guy, which I got on a close-out for a song and a dance -- maybe three hundred? It was long ago. Panny, Oly, and Nikon are all great. They gave away EM10 mkII at one time as well --- alas, those days are gone, and Olympus is gone. Enjoy the Pen F, with its screw-less look design, and good capabilities. OM systems is not even selling the 7 little guy here in the States :(
Thanks for some explanation about the fascination of a PEN-F. I still don't get why to prefer it over the 5 series, but maybe it's just about the different mode you get in when taking photos with it. I stayed with my EM5-M2 (till it broke). As many others i use it with the f1.8 Olympus and f1.7 Panasonic lenses. Mainly because of size and image quality. For one of the Pro Primes you get the entire F1.8 lineup which isn't bad. ( I admit... I'd like to have the 25mm Pro but only in combination with the EM1/OM1 series.
I have 2 tiny pancake lenses that go really well with my Pen-F - Olympus 17mm f2.8 and the Lumix 14mm f2.5. Optics are not as good but the size of the lenses go well with the Pen-F.
The front B&W, Colour switch is a jpeg only function. I own the EP1, and although it's older it's better looking, and looks more like the original Pen F. PS: Maybe you should now try the real Pen F .. The original half frame masterpiece.
Hi Emilie I own a PEN F with thee pancake 14-42mm beside my OM-1 mk 2 as a backup camera, but if I am walking in a town it’s always with me. The 20 mp sensor is capable to record whatever I want to shoot. Have fun with the camera. Ton
I don't know why I knew you were going to say that front dial, it's not a thing for me as I am a RAW shooter. Anywho the reason I would love a Pen-F II (even though I never owned the original) is because of the rangefinder style EVF and size. I have owned the Panasonic GX-7 and GX-8 and I miss them so much but the AF is not great for me. And that's what I want from Pen-F II, please put a PDAF sensor and weather sealing and subject detection (I want that for my pets and for the better human and eye detection). I prefer then Pen-F II compared to OM-5 (and all the E-M5 versions too) because the OM-5 and even E-M10 are to small for my hands comfortably with the EVF I the middle, my thumb is cramped when I try to hold the camera comfortably and secure, the EVF in the corner makes the rangefinder style camera so much more comfortable for me.
You might try the Panasonic 12-35. Super lite weight and a surprising good little lens. I use it for lightweight travel. You can pair it with the 35-100.
The 17mm f1.8 is a smaller lens than the 17mm f1.2 Pro you mention, Emilie. It is a lot cheaper, excellent IQ, and less obtrusive for street. I think the Pen F is an excellent camera for all the small Olympus primes. It seems fitting with the retro street reportage genre in it's genes. I use the Pro series on the slightly larger and more capable bodies like the M1mk3, Or OM-1 series. The Pen F is of course much more than a street camera, performing well in all genres (except perhaps astro, as it has no bulb function). In fact there are dedicated astro cameras that use this sensor. I bought my black Pen F for a song back when Olympus became OM Systems. I could double my money now, but will never sell this classic gem of a camera!
I loooooove my Pen-f!! The smaller prime lenses (17mm. 25mm, 45mm f1.8) are perfect for it. I use the 25mm f1.8 most for street and travel photography as the view is very similar to my film cameras with 50mm lens. If you ever speak the folks of OM System: I would buy a new weather sealed version of the Pen-f blind.
Had it, sold it, ended up buying it back. Initially I was a bit underwhelmed with it and preferred the OMD's and to some extent that is still true, but I came to the realisation that it was unlikely that more such cameras in the M4/3 format would be produced. Olympus didn't really make any money on the first one, and at the time of its launch, digital camera sales were a lot higher than they are today. M4/3 is the main system I use, most of my gear is for that format, so I thought why not have the most boutique camera produced in that era. It's still a pretty decent camera after all and should hold its value well enough. I think back to certain film cameras I had, the Nikon 28ti in particular, which I shouldn't have sold. It would cost me 3x what I sold it for to buy it back today. The Pen F is a fine choice for fair weather walk around photography I would say!
I think one of the strong points of the OM system is street photography, thanks to its tiny F 1.8 lenses and bodies like the OM5 or that beautiful PEN F... About a year ago I bought a silver PEN F, in very good condition (like new), and I think it is the most beautiful digital camera manufactured to date...😁
I have just purchased another PEN-F. This will be the third time I have bought a PEN-F model. I sold my last PEN-F about 2 years ago. I missed it the day after I despatched it to MPB for trade-in. Seemed a good idea at the time? I kinda thought OM Systems would produce a PEN-F MKii. Given the clamouring for such a camera. But I suppose. That bridge is burned. The price of the PEN-F has gone up since as you say. It’s not truly a ‘value for money’ camera. But the same could be said about a Hassleblad, Leica or Fuji XV100mk V I. There just “is” something about shooting with this camera. Perhaps it’s the ‘essence’ of photography. More ‘visceral’ than ‘technical’. I have paired mine with the OM 20mm f1.4(40mm focal length equivalent). Which is my favourite focal length for travel, street etc.
Thank you for your contribution, dear Emilie! I feel exactly the same as you: I love my PEN-F! It is a fantastic, ingenious and one of the most creative cameras I know. I am still far from knowing all the possibilities of this camera: I am learning and practicing and I realize every time that practicing with this camera is extremely fun, the results are extraordinarily expressive. And above all, as you say: it fits in any bag and can really be with me at all times. I also like it best with the small prime lenses, but also with the 20 mm f1.4! It is simply fun to take photos with it and it looks very stylish too. Thank you also for your contribution to the OM System Week with Mashalla a few days ago and thank you for your many tips! Could you please write me the link to the live stream you mentioned about creating the drop reflections? Unfortunately I can't find it on UA-cam - thank you very much in advance, continued success and joy in your photography and best wishes, Renate
Thank you so much for your kind words. I will have to look back to find the live I did with mishalla on waterdrops but I do have a video on my channel that should help: ua-cam.com/video/9evXCliX1VE/v-deo.html
You seem to really love your little camera. Olympus definitely needs to bring back the Pen F, they can call it Pen F 2.0. Here in Canada the camera is around 1599.00. I was looking for one but then settled on the OMD-EM10 which I paid 200 hundred for. P.S. I look so forward to your Sunday videos.
Hi Emilie, I thought you were going to pan the camera because of its eight year old specs, but I was surprised and thrilled that you like the "experience" of the camera, eschewing the autistic need for ever higher megapixels, or the posers need for bragging rights. The simple and unquantifiable pleasure of the experience of a camera that isn't captured by spec sheets. Excellent, the triumph of proof of practice over theory and presumption. Completely off topic, but is that a Tangem ring you are wearing? Hats off to you if you are 😉
I agree 100%. It is not about megapixels but the experiences you can have with your camera. The ring I am wearing is called an Ultrahuman Ring. Helps track your health.
Oh, the Pen-F... My first digital Olympus and it certainly has a lot of magic. I still use it for MF street photography. AF isn't overwhelming compared to newer bodies. Excellent Olympus lenses: 17mm 1.8, 45mm 1.8. If I needed a wider range the Lumix 45-150 because it's so lightweight. But I also used it in combination with the Kamlan 50mm 1.1. and the Voigtlaender 25mm 0.95. This would be very special lenses for a very special type of low light street shots, very retro, nothing for pixel-peepers. Oh, and you surely tried the Pen-F on your 150-400 at least once, didn't you? 😂
Unfortunately, the only Pen F I have owned was an original half-frame film version - and the mirror fell out the fist time I used it - but I still loved it. I've always liked flat-topped cameras (like the E300, which I still have) and can't understand the obsession with a 'fake pentaprism' on mirrorless cameras. Although I have and EM1 and EM1ii, I use an E-PL6 with a Lumix 20mm pancake for much of my photography, just for its small size, and would welcome the chance of a better spec. small camera with no 'bulge' on top and a decent viewfinder. Interesting video, thanks.
I have an OM-1, and I almost bought a used PEN-F as a second camera last month. Now I regret that I did not buy it. I think OM System should defiantly make a new Pen-F! It could even be in the form of a slightly redesigned E-P7 with EVF instead of flash, which will make it a few mm taller but still much more portable than the OM-5. Edit: I could not control my desires anymore! I bought a used PEN-F today!
I keep the M.Zuiko Digital ED 20mm F1.4 PRO on my E-M5 mkIII and in my work bag all the time. It's a great walk around lens in town. Do you have that lens?
Olympus Mirrorless cameras where first known for street photo camera (small size and small lenses, extra dof etc) before the wildlife/outdoor change in marketing strategy. The 10series, 5 series and pen series are great for street and EDC. The new marketing strategy can't delete the past. I own PENF and won't sell it.
I love all the rangefinder-style mft cameras, but the prices right now are crazy. There's not that much between a pen-f, gx9... and e-m5 or a gh5, and those have stayed pretty much the same while even the lesser rangefinder bodies went up 50%+ in the last year. I'm hoping this video is a little wink-wink nudge-nudge, because I think a new Pen-F with OM1 technology and a new pancake lens lineup would sell like hot cakes.
Hello. I have a PEN F and a OM1. I use the PENF mainlly with 17mm f1.8 and the 45mmf1.8. The size of the pen and the om is not so big.I have used the pen for concerts using face trackin and it was great. I will never sell it. I shot with pen or om depending of my will.
Hi Emilie, there are many reasons:
1. it's a ranger finder camera (OM system doesn't offer anything like that),
2. it's all metal with a very high quality (on the contrary, the OM5 is just plastic)
3. the B&W switch button
4. the possibility to create in camera presets for B&W (I think that's the only Olympus camera that has this feature)
5. It has a retro look (and lot of people likes the retro look), and the buttons are nostalgic
6. it's so small you can take it with you everywhere
OM System would simply need to:
- start building again PenF with the same HW the OM-5 has (same components)
- no plastic, no changes to the body, just re-use the same thing they have already
- create 5 small lenses: 12mm f/1.4, 17mm f/1.4, 25 f/1.4 (maybe a 45mm f/1.4?) with a real aperture ring, all metal
- (also, OM System should listen to you more and start advertising OM Systems cameras for street photography as well :))
Such camera would sell much more than OM1-2.
Sorry but just to correct point number 1. It is not a range finder camera, It is fitted with an EVF - as are the other OM system cameras.
It is mind blowing with how many people, who are CURRENT fans/owners of micro 4/3's gear, are asking for a follow up to this camera, and OM System seems to ignore this as a possibility. Maybe not everyone would agree, but I think MOST would be willing to "give up" the no screws/hidden screws for a weather sealed camera, similar metal build, modern sensor/features, and a current price with warranty. Not EVERYONE loves the front dial, but it gives jpeg shooters options that are in the same league as Fujifilm so I see it as important and something that more options could be added to. I think it would sell well within existing M43 users, and maybe even draw some new or returning folks in... yet it seems OM does not see any value in an updated version of this camera, which is such a missed opportunity.
Bang on. Give it the E-P7 handling and dial/switch arrangement (inc power switch) flip up screen with the tilt flexibility of the X-T5 and they surely have a winner.
If it has another piddly ass 20mp sensor, it won't sell. You're not going to turn heads or impress any NEW customer with a measly 20mp sensor when 24 is the absolute minimum for every other manufacturer, and especially when Fuji's XT-5, an APS-C sensor is 40mp and the direct competitor to a new PEN-F would be the X100 VI is ALSO 40mp. Also, all the old geezers that say "20mp is enough!" doesn't matter; again, new consumers don't care for 20mp.
The other problem with a new PEN-F is that the current trend is what matters, and Fuji is killing it with the X100 cameras because of proper Film Simulation. You're not going to sell a vintage looking camera without vintage looking results.
Next, the basics; USB-C charging needs to happen, menu UI needs to be used the same as it is from the OM-1, in-body panorama stitching needs to be implemented, one extra dial for a total of three, each one controlling ISO, Aperture and Shutter, all metal body; it needs to be premium, nobody cares or expects cheap plastics anymore especially for a borderline flagship camera and lastly; NEW LENSES. a TRUE pancake 35mm or 40mm f/1.8 to pair it with a vintage and compact street camera like the PEN-F is crucial. Put in IS for Sync-IS, improve the video and you've got a wicked compact hybrid camera.
But also...Canon has the 28-70mm f/2 and the 24-105mm f/2.8, Tamron has the 35-150mm f/2-2.8 and even Sigma has the 28--105mm f/2.8.... where the hell is OM Systems with something like a 12-75mm f/2.8 IS Pro? WTF.
The dial should definitely be programable with something more useful, like silent shutter. But to sell it needs larger resolution too
OM's marketing seems to be purposefully ignoring all genres other than wildlife, nature, or Macro. A new PEN-F is not coming.
It is a lovely camera and a joy to use, i regret selling mine and want to replace it but the price for them has gone silly
Pen-F is a keeper. No plans to sell my black version, bought in 2019. Even if OM Systems produces a Mk ii upgrade, which I strongly recommend to them, b/c I think it would be a blockbuster.
I bought a Pen-F in early 2020, it was my first micro four thirds camera. It kept me going during Covid lockdown, I took it with me on all my exercise walks, photographing my local area. The art modes are fun.
I'm using an OM-D EM5 Mark III as my main camera now (weatherproof, which the Pen-F isn't), but I'm not selling my Pen-F, and I frequently use it when the weather is good.
A brilliant camera in my opinion. Was able to get mine at the start of this year, and I think it's just a fun street camera to use. For the right price it is definitely worth it.
Yes definitely a very fun street camera and travel camera too. I have been really enjoying having it with me.
Had mine a year now and really pleased with it. As you say it goes in the pocket with a small lens, I mostly have the 17 1.8 fitted as a general lens but also use a 45 1.8
Two other great lenses!
Why is OM system not putting modern viewfinder, processor and sensor in and sell it a a Pen F mkii. Most recent pen cameras cannot compete with the looks of this camera.
I originally kept the Leica Summilux 25mm f1.4 on my Pen F all the time. But recently I have switched to the LUMIX 20mm f1.7 and have been pleased with the sharpness and the much smaller size.
@@bobbyhicks1078 Thanks for the recommendations!
I have one and really like it. My lens suggestion would be the Panasonic 15mm F1.7.
Thank you for the recommendation!
@@EmilieTThat and the 20mm F1.4 pro, slots in between 35 mm and 50mm equiv and close up you get shallow dof
The OS doesn't work when fitted to the Olympus body.The Olympus 12mm would be a better option.
@@daysofgrace2934 The 20mm f1.4 PRO is a beautiful lens! Sitting on my PEN-F right now.
Wonderful travel camera, my favourite lens for use with the Pen-f is the 17mm f1.8. The premium build, AF/MF clutch and DoF scale add more fun to the Pen-F experience, this lens also produces quite nice bokeh and sunstars. Another great lens for this camera is, of course, the amazing 75mm f1.8.
I am eye both lenses. Decision, decision...
Fully agree! The 12mm F2 is, also a good match for the PEN-F because has a similar retro look as the 17mm F1.8. And the 45mm F1.8 is the perfect tiny portrait lens.
Also the Lumix 20/1.7 and the Lumix/Leica 15/1.7 are great lenses for Street Photography 👍
I eventually had to get the EM1iii to power my bigger lenses for nature photos, but I will never part with my Pen-F. Coolest looking camera. I use it with either the OG or I really like the 14-42 EZ lens, which I don't hear people talking about much, but I think it's very handy and great for jpeg b&w shots, esp with the built in lens cap.
I bought my PenF when it first came out. I already had some MFT lenses (Panasonic Leica series) from my video camera. So getting the PenF for still photography was excellent. I had the original film PenF from the 1960s, and love my “new” PenF digital camera. I got a Nikon Z6 when they came out, and since sold it, going back to the PenF. My favorite lenses Emily, are the Panny Leica 15mm and just purchased the new Olympus 20m prime, both are excellent for street photography.
Cheers
Hi. I am using my 12mm. It a amazing lens for streetphotos. Verner Ory
I agree and also great for night photography.
Thank you so much for NOT comparing the Pen F to a Leica or Fujifilm, love it! I think I have to own a Pen F one day. Merci beaucoup!
I thought it was kind of expensive when it was released in 2016, so I decided to pass and stay with my EM-5.2. I then passed up opportunities to buy it refurbished from Olympus. What a maroon! The used prices now are as much or more than they were new. But I have to honest with myself: as appealing as it is to me, I'm not sure I'd use it all that much.
I agree about the prices. This is really crazy!
@@EmilieT If I did buy it, I'm pretty sure the 17mm f/1.8 would live on it.
I use the EM5iii as my main MFT camera. It checks all the boxes and takes great images. I later found a used PEN-F and like the experience, but it's heavy, not weather-sealed and doesn't keep up with the EM5iii in terms of performance. I love the PEN-F, but it needs to be updated, weathersealed. I wish it were smaller and lighter, but for crying out loud OM, relaunch it and weatherseal it!
Yes weather seal is so nice to have!
I love my Pen-F. Bought it a few years ago from MPB for around $800, in like new condition. I keep the 14-42 f/3.5 on it all the time, with the tiny auto-opening and closing lens cap. Truly a capable and tiny set-up.
Awesome! Congrats on the Pen-F!
Hi Emilie. I have been an Olympus user since 2014 [Nikon before that]. Having used many Olympus bodies I can say that my favorite was and still is the Pen F. I have 2 of them, a chrome one which has been well used and a black one which is still in the box not used. Yes, I love the Pen F so much. I do wish that Olympus had brought out a weather sealed version though, that would in my opinion be a good seller and has been asked for by many photographers. As far as lenses go for the Pen F, my favorite would be the 12mm f2, then the 25mm f1.8 as an everyday lens.
i agree. I would love to see a weather sealed PenF!
I had it and I sold it and I regret it. I bought it again because this camera is addictive. My favourite lens is the amazing M.Zuiko 20mm 1:14.
You are an ambassador.please tell to Om System to don’t limit the strategy only to nature photography
I also get EM5 iii aside from my main camera OM-1, the light weight camera is real nice to carry around
I never heard of this before and started searching for them, a bit pricey but looks like and awesome camera, thanks for sharing Emilie.
I'm a Fuji user, my brother an Olympus user.. A Pen-F II would be a reason to spend some money for me..
Itˋs one of the two cameras in the last years built by enthusiasts and not by salesman. Like the M1X it's in a perfect haptic quality and unique.
I got the chance to shoot with the EM1X. Great camera. For me, it was a little too big but for many people it was a great size.
Fabulous camera that continues to be a pleasure to use. I'd suggest having a look at the 25mm 1.8 for street use.
I bought a Pen F for my daughter-in-law as a Ph.D. graduation gift. It's the camera she wanted because of its excellent monochrome performance. She manages an archaeological dig in Pompeii, so I hope she's been using it there. I've had several rangefinder film cameras: Leica M-3, Canon P, Olympus 35 RC and XA, Zeiss Super-Ikonta B. I liked using them because of their quiet performance. Now, I have digital OM-1 and EM-5 III, and they are super quiet.
Hi Émilie. J'ai une Pen-F depuis plusieurs années et j’adore cet appareil. Peu à peu J'ai arrêté d’utiliser ma Canon car les résultats de la Pen-F étaient supérieures en qualité d’image. Mais surtout c'est le plaisir de sortir faire de photos. On part légers dans le sac et dans la tête. J'attends une version ii de la part de OM Système, et je ne suis pas le seul 😊
Bonjour. Oui c'est vraiment agréable de partir léger avec son appareil.
I would love to buy a current version of this camera. I can only hope the OM System figures this out and makes it happen.
I too shoot birds w my OM-1.
6 months ago I bought a PEN-F and absolutely love it! I have the 12mm and 25mm lenses, and always carry this beautiful little camera with me!
Thanks for your video- Yaay PEN-F!
I've owned this camera since it came out. It was the first 20 m. pixel camera Olympus made (followed quickly by the EM1-II that fall). It was also the first (and only) Pen camera with an EVF. I've bought and sold a lot of cameras over the years (including a few Pens), but I've never been tempted to sell the Pen-F. I think it's the feel of it in the hand, or something subjective like that. Perhaps now with the X-100 craze that has everybody maxing out their credit card, and the jpeg trend, OM Systems will make a Mark II. My suggestion for a street lens? The Panasonic 14mm 2.5.
Thank you for the suggestion. I appreciate it. We will see what OM SYSTEM will come up with next. I have to say that right now I am happy with what I have :)
It was discontinued when I wanted to buy. I imported a pen e-p7 from Japan instead. Yes It lacks the viewfinder. It was my first m43. I so enjoyed the light nature of the body and the lenses, I sold my Sony A7 III and heavy lenses to buy a OM-5 body. Now I have the sealing, the viewfinder and a fully articulating screen when I need.
But here is the thing: I prefer the angled screen of E-P7 instead of fully articulating one of OM-5 on the street. The reason is simple: you can shoot holding the camera low without distracting your subject. Once you rise your camera to your eye level or open the flapping screen you become an obvious photographer in the eye of your subject.
But hey, it's pure joy to shoot with OM.
One tiny bag: One 15mm prime, one 12-45 zoom, one 15mm body cap. 2 bodies, four batteries: out!
Congrats on the OM-5!
I have bought four of these cameras and sold them. Guess what I just bought another one black of course.❤
:)
So after your experience wtih the Pen F please pass along a recommendation to your employer to develop and release an updated Mark II version!
Hello 👋. Think about getting the Olympus 17mm f1.8. Smaller than the 17mm f1.2
Looks like a fun camera to shoot. My problem is that it's way overpriced for what you're getting. I think most people would agree that it's a $400-500 camera used.
Love my Pen F! People are clamoring for a Mk ii! Adding weather sealing would make this a no brainer purchase for me.
Wish I never sold it. Please make a mk2 but keep the original look
@@davedurrant9237 I am now in the please make a mark II category as well
I own my Pen-F since 2016, i aimed for a em10 mk II but i fell in love with the pen-f and bought it directly. My main camera is the om-1 but i will never sell the pen-f.
As a long time Panasonic user, I considered the Pen-F at one point. However, it got mixed reviews when compared with the competition (Lumix GX8, GX9). NO DOUBT, it has a very cute, classic design, but the slow AF and slow "click to clunk" time turned me off. I wish OM Systems would replace it with a thoroughly updated design (25MP sensor, PDAF, state-of-the-art IBIS, better electronic viewfinder, MUCH faster processor, downloadable LUTS, etc.
Add the Olympus Camera Grip ECG-4 and the PEN-F becomes much more comfortable to hold.
Thank you for the recommendation.
I have the black version W/ a 12mm F2 perfect match with the hood
I first saw that when I was looking up one of the basic pen cameras. The F looks like an awesome camera!
It truly is!
❤ Yes, it's a lovely camera. A camera that gives you unexpected joy is always a special gem. And this camera gives joy.
Yes, OM System needs to start make Pen-F again. Updated with especially weather protection.
I miss the camera so much.
Yes! Photography is all about having fun. I agree:)
I have a Pen f, a EP 5 and a pen do. EP 1 mk2 and TG6. Several Olympus film cameras as well. I have used Canon, Pentax and Mamiya cameras. The pen cameras and the TG are my favourite tools. Going from professional to retired pro has been limiting ($). But I am now enjoying the freedom to explore my creativity.
The PEN-F is an awesome camera and I have owned it since it came out in 2016. I use it primarily with the Zuiko 17mm f1.8 lens and it works great. It also works well with the 12-100 Pro lens.
Thank you for the recommendation
I’d say “welcome to the club’, but I’m not (yet) a Pen F owner. Folks do seem to love this camera! Enjoy! Hey, hoping the upcoming OM Ambassador video session is part of an announcement for a Pen F Ii 😊, but will be equally pleased if it’s for an OM5 ii.
@@gordon3988 yes both will be amazing. OM SYSTEM is the only one announcing camera release. We ambassadors are here to share our experiences :)
I usually keep my silver 17mm f1.8 on my silver Pen F, they just seem made for each other. My 17mm is one of the later ones, I know they don't have a perfect reputation but mine is brilliant. My favorite camera & lens combo.
Thank you for sharing!
i bought mine when it first came out in 2016 and i’ve worked with many other cameras as well since then (sony, canon, fujifilm)- the pen-f is my main now. aside from personal photography, i’ve used it professionally as well- portraits, products, publications, this hasn’t let me down. if you’re used to using manual lenses, the ibis truly is mind blowing and i’ve found new life with all of my film lenses. the monochrome 2 is hands down the closest look to tri-x i’ve seen in any camera- right out of the body there’s no need to even edit it if you got the exposure right. i’m tempted to buy a second one as backup before the price jumps too high
Very true! I can't believe the prices would go even higher but who knows...
@@EmilieTThey will soon, due to the never ending hype.
I’m envious of your purchase, I love the range finder style cameras. I went after a ‘cheaper’ lumix gx9 because but the pen was sooo expensive….but the old gx9 sells more than a new om5 too!…crazy!! Found an older gx85 instead for a third of the price of the gx9 😁…but, it’s not a Pen ☹️.
Enjoy. Hopefully I’ll pick up a new mk2 version 🙏..
Yes it really is crazy how some older cameras are more expensive than the newer one!
I started looking at cameras last yearafter not really doing any photography for years i feel i want a camera again. Whike looking at reviews someone metioned this camera as their favourite and that they eished they never sold theirs. Since then I've fallen in love with this camera and really eant to get one but ss i only really intend to own one camera I'm finding it jard to justify this being the one over say the OM5 you memtion.
I bought my PEN-F new in 2017 and am so happy that I never sold it. The 17mm f1.8 is the perfect match. Other great (compact) options are the 12mm F2, the 45mm F1.8 and the 75mm f1.8. None are weather resistant, but neither is the PEN-F. And maybe the 9-18mm zoom.
Thanks for all the excellent options. I do have the 12mm. I love it. I looking at the 17mm and the 75mm too...
@@EmilieT I’m glad that @tizio54 mentioned the 75mm 1.8. It is an absolutely brilliant lens and works beautifully on the PEN-F. One of Oly’s sharpest lenses and barely bigger than the 20mm 1.4 PRO.
I sold all of my Canon digital gear and bought the Pen-F at the beginning of this year for travel photography and I absolutely love shooting with it. It really makes photography fun. I bought it second hand with the Olympus 12mm f/2.0 and the Olympus 25mm f/1.8 Lens. The 12mm I found great for street photography in tight Tokyo streets. I’ve just bought a Second hand Olympus 17mm f/1.8 and an Olympus 45mm f/1.8 Lens to round things off. I’m really enjoying the 17mm and I find the auto focus is quick and accurate even though there are some reports it has trouble searching for focus. I’ve only had time to do a few shots with the 45mm and I love the results. Everything fits into one very small camera bag light and easy. I do hope they bring out a Pen-f 2 with a tilt screen that would be fabulous. As for selling the OG I don’t think so, superb design never goes out of style and for me it’s like a timeless piece of art. I don’t think I’ve ever felt this way about a camera and I’ve had many.
Thank you for sharing. That is what photography is all about; having fun and capturing special moments.
Have a look at the exquisite STC Retro Handgrip for Olympus PEN-F. Makes all the difference and looks gorgeous.
I might have to look into this...
@@EmilieT You'll find plenty of (much) cheaper alternatives from China on eBay, but most look awkward. Imagine glueing a block of wood to that camera: quelle horreur!
I love Pen F too. Great camera. A big LIKE for your video. Greetings from Singapore. Have a nice day.
Thank you! Have a great day too!
My main camera since 2018, together with a GX9.
Get a leather jacket for the PenF, to improve holding and any small lens will do. This is a fun camera to use, not a "technical" product.
Thanks for the advice. I will look at getting one
I hope you continue to join the Pen F. My recommendation would be to try the 17 mm f 1.8 prime. That’s the lens that I use most frequently on my Pen F.
Thank you for the recommendation!
Pen F and the olympus 25mm f1.8 is a match made in camera heaven. You can even focus brkt your favourite fungi without changing lenses.
Thank you for the recommendation!
Love my Pen F. I almost only take b/w photos in 1x1 format with it.
My few days with the PenF where all in B&W too. So fun!
What took you so long. I’ve had mine about 6 months now and absolutely love it!
I recently bought the 12-45 f4 and I find it balances beautifully on the camera. Also the Panny 9 mm❤️
It’s just such a lovely camera too use, so much fun.
I’ve got the EM1 mk2 but only use that for birding now with 40-150 f2.8👍👍
Enjoy😁😁
I know right! Well better later than never :)
I've had the Pen F since it came out 2016. I love it. It is my go to camera for those grab shots that come up at home or just for a walk in the city. My favorite lens on mine is the 12-40 2.8 PRO but it does make the combination rather large. Other than that lens I do carry the 12mm, 17mm, 25mm and the 45mm primes. They are all small and will fit nicely in a coat pocket or small messenger bag . If they made a new version of it I'd probably not get it as mine just perfect as is
Thank you for the lens recommendations!
Nice Video Emilie. Welcome to the club.📷
Thank you so much!
Hopefully you will share this experience and thoughts with OMDS, because none get the feeling that they are remotely interested in pursuing this avenue (or any other for that matter)!
Never owned one, out of my budget sadly, but I did get a EM5ii a couple of months back. My lens of choice is the Olympus 17mm F1.8. I've had it a few years now and it's the only lens I will never sell :)
Thank you for sharing. A lot of love for the 17mm f1.8 in the comments.
Not sure who's buying this camera at that price but when we say we want a pen f2 we mean we want today's specs in the same body. I use the ep7 which is the plastic budget version. Since you are an ambasador you should tell them we want a pen f2
Bonjour , merci pour cette vidéo qui tombe à pic ! j'hésite entre un pen F et un om-5 pour leur légèreté ; pour le pen : aspect trop trop beau et pour l'om5 la tropicalisation. Suis nouvelle dans le mode 4/3 et perdue dans toutes les appellations alambiquées d'OM système, j'ai un fuji xe2 et souhaite encore m'alléger. Peut être aurais tu des idées conseils avisés à me proposer ? cordialement
Bonjour. Quel genre de photos faites vous?
Hello Emilie, this video was a Great surprise to me but Great fun. Yes, the PEN F is wonderful for street fotography, combined with small lenses. I use the Olympus17 mm 1.8, people get in contact and asked me about this Camera.
I am eyeing this lens. Might have ti buy it.
One big reason why I got an EM-5 Mk II instead of a Pen F was the weatherproofing. The PRO primes have weatherproofing while the f1.8's do not. But the latter are much smaller. So perhaps the 17 f1.8 would be a good match for your Pen. I think that 12 is a great choice too. I keep resisting the urge to get one because it would not give me much that my 12-40 doesn't already.
Excellent point about the weatherproofing
Wish list?
Weather resist would be at the bottom of my wish list. It's a solution looking for a non-existent problem, like more pixels, like PDAF. PDAF is slower and does not work in low light, so any camera with PDAF has CDAF. PDAF is good for detect and tracking, to tell the camera where to focus, CDAF is always used to finalise focus lock because PDAF always has two focus solutions.
A tilt monitor and a wide rubber eyecup accessory for the LVF.
A finger grip lump on the front (get a good leather half case with a bulge).
Maybe a mic-in jack. If you put the SEMA-1 on an E-PL7, there's your mic-in, and it's got a tilt monitor, and it takes the VF4 LVF, and it is tiny, I mean it's the really small sibling to the E-M5ii. The PEN-F is the cumulation of the E-PL7, E-M10ii, E-M5ii series. The PEN-F video capabilities are limited but the image and audio is good, it would be nice if a Rode could be used though.
A pop-up flash for fill or wireless master, and the hot shoe.
Bring back the AP-2 port.
While I don't have the coveted Pen F, I do have the Olympus PEN E-P5 which can be picked up for less that $400 on the used market. I love this camera as it is perfect for street photography or quick travel opportunities. While it has the older 16MP sensor it produces excellent images. The retro styling (especially the silver model) and use with the tiny but mighty f1.8 primes make for a wonderful experience. The E-P5 also has the dual dial configuration I like; very similar to its E-M5 or E-M10 bigger brother models. I shoot in RAW + JPEG using this camera and utilize the ART modes frequently to produce creative JPEGs but able to edit the RAW images if I want. The 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 EZ pancake zoom is another good lens choice to keep things very compact when the camera is off, but still pretty small when using the zoom. The flip-up screen on the back also allows for more 'incognito' shooting. I hope OM SYSTEM decides to produce a new line of PEN cameras. These are so fun to use.
Thank you for sharing your experience. I am eyeing the 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 EZ . So compact and I am a big fan of the Zoom lenses :)
I will highly recommend the Lumix GX-9 for the street, with faster focusing than a PEN-F. I was lucky enough to buy one with the 12-60mm kit lens, for under $1K new! Lens wise I have the Lumix Leica 15mm f1.7, Olympus 25mm, and 45mm, which are also excellent, along with 14mm Lumix inexpensive pancake lens, which i use on the Olympus Pen PL-8 all the time. The Lumix 30mm macro is sharp edge to edge, with no distortion, but is a tad longer. The Lumix 12-32, zoom is a tiny little and fun lens, but I rarely go zoom these days, so it sits on the shelf. Lumix 12-60mm is good enough, and of medium size. For street, the Leica 15mm is great, and the Olympus 25 is very good. The 45mm is a lot of zoom, and nice to use just to mix things up, now and then. The GX-9 Lumix, with a tilt-only screen, and fast focusing is a gem for the street. Panasonic camera + Panasonic lenses = fast and accurate single shot focusing. Looks wise -- nice enough. My Olympus Pen-PL-8, all metal design gets more compliments, and is fun to use of course, with good enough focusing. I would rate it overall a very good little guy, which I got on a close-out for a song and a dance -- maybe three hundred? It was long ago. Panny, Oly, and Nikon are all great. They gave away EM10 mkII at one time as well --- alas, those days are gone, and Olympus is gone. Enjoy the Pen F, with its screw-less look design, and good capabilities. OM systems is not even selling the 7 little guy here in the States :(
Thanks for some explanation about the fascination of a PEN-F.
I still don't get why to prefer it over the 5 series, but maybe it's just about the different mode you get in when taking photos with it. I stayed with my EM5-M2 (till it broke). As many others i use it with the f1.8 Olympus and f1.7 Panasonic lenses.
Mainly because of size and image quality. For one of the Pro Primes you get the entire F1.8 lineup which isn't bad. ( I admit... I'd like to have the 25mm Pro but only in combination with the EM1/OM1 series.
@@mariusm2402 yes the 25mm is tempting
I have 2 tiny pancake lenses that go really well with my Pen-F - Olympus 17mm f2.8 and the Lumix 14mm f2.5. Optics are not as good but the size of the lenses go well with the Pen-F.
Thank you for the recommendations!
The front B&W, Colour switch is a jpeg only function.
I own the EP1, and although it's older it's better looking, and looks more like the original Pen F.
PS: Maybe you should now try the real Pen F .. The original half frame masterpiece.
Hi Emilie
I own a PEN F with thee pancake 14-42mm beside my OM-1 mk 2 as a backup camera, but if I am walking in a town it’s always with me.
The 20 mp sensor is capable to record whatever I want to shoot.
Have fun with the camera.
Ton
Thank you Ton!
I don't know why I knew you were going to say that front dial, it's not a thing for me as I am a RAW shooter. Anywho the reason I would love a Pen-F II (even though I never owned the original) is because of the rangefinder style EVF and size. I have owned the Panasonic GX-7 and GX-8 and I miss them so much but the AF is not great for me. And that's what I want from Pen-F II, please put a PDAF sensor and weather sealing and subject detection (I want that for my pets and for the better human and eye detection). I prefer then Pen-F II compared to OM-5 (and all the E-M5 versions too) because the OM-5 and even E-M10 are to small for my hands comfortably with the EVF I the middle, my thumb is cramped when I try to hold the camera comfortably and secure, the EVF in the corner makes the rangefinder style camera so much more comfortable for me.
You might try the Panasonic 12-35. Super lite weight and a surprising good little lens. I use it for lightweight travel. You can pair it with the 35-100.
Thank you for the recommendation!
The Panasonic 9-18 is a great edition and the 35-100 small and cheap
@@mindquiet Thank you for the recommendation
I'd love to see OM Systems make a new Pen F with the same stacked sensor as the OM-1.
The 17mm f1.8 is a smaller lens than the 17mm f1.2 Pro you mention, Emilie. It is a lot cheaper, excellent IQ, and less obtrusive for street. I think the Pen F is an excellent camera for all the small Olympus primes. It seems fitting with the retro street reportage genre in it's genes. I use the Pro series on the slightly larger and more capable bodies like the M1mk3, Or OM-1 series.
The Pen F is of course much more than a street camera, performing well in all genres (except perhaps astro, as it has no bulb function). In fact there are dedicated astro cameras that use this sensor.
I bought my black Pen F for a song back when Olympus became OM Systems. I could double my money now, but will never sell this classic gem of a camera!
I loooooove my Pen-f!! The smaller prime lenses (17mm. 25mm, 45mm f1.8) are perfect for it. I use the 25mm f1.8 most for street and travel photography as the view is very similar to my film cameras with 50mm lens.
If you ever speak the folks of OM System: I would buy a new weather sealed version of the Pen-f blind.
Thank you for the lens recommendation. I appreciate it.
Had it, sold it, ended up buying it back. Initially I was a bit underwhelmed with it and preferred the OMD's and to some extent that is still true, but I came to the realisation that it was unlikely that more such cameras in the M4/3 format would be produced. Olympus didn't really make any money on the first one, and at the time of its launch, digital camera sales were a lot higher than they are today. M4/3 is the main system I use, most of my gear is for that format, so I thought why not have the most boutique camera produced in that era. It's still a pretty decent camera after all and should hold its value well enough. I think back to certain film cameras I had, the Nikon 28ti in particular, which I shouldn't have sold. It would cost me 3x what I sold it for to buy it back today. The Pen F is a fine choice for fair weather walk around photography I would say!
I agree with you
I think one of the strong points of the OM system is street photography, thanks to its tiny F 1.8 lenses and bodies like the OM5 or that beautiful PEN F... About a year ago I bought a silver PEN F, in very good condition (like new), and I think it is the most beautiful digital camera manufactured to date...😁
I agree!
17mm is great on em1mk3, I remember the pen series pen series. Sold new.
Thank you so much for the recommendation.
I have just purchased another PEN-F. This will be the third time I have bought a PEN-F model. I sold my last PEN-F about 2 years ago. I missed it the day after I despatched it to MPB for trade-in. Seemed a good idea at the time? I kinda thought OM Systems would produce a PEN-F MKii. Given the clamouring for such a camera. But I suppose. That bridge is burned. The price of the PEN-F has gone up since as you say. It’s not truly a ‘value for money’ camera. But the same could be said about a Hassleblad, Leica or Fuji XV100mk V I. There just “is” something about shooting with this camera. Perhaps it’s the ‘essence’ of photography. More ‘visceral’ than ‘technical’. I have paired mine with the OM 20mm f1.4(40mm focal length equivalent). Which is my favourite focal length for travel, street etc.
Well said. Yes I agree about going back to the essence of photography with this camera.
Thank you for your contribution, dear Emilie! I feel exactly the same as you: I love my PEN-F! It is a fantastic, ingenious and one of the most creative cameras I know. I am still far from knowing all the possibilities of this camera: I am learning and practicing and I realize every time that practicing with this camera is extremely fun, the results are extraordinarily expressive. And above all, as you say: it fits in any bag and can really be with me at all times. I also like it best with the small prime lenses, but also with the 20 mm f1.4! It is simply fun to take photos with it and it looks very stylish too. Thank you also for your contribution to the OM System Week with Mashalla a few days ago and thank you for your many tips! Could you please write me the link to the live stream you mentioned about creating the drop reflections? Unfortunately I can't find it on UA-cam - thank you very much in advance, continued success and joy in your photography and best wishes, Renate
Thank you so much for your kind words. I will have to look back to find the live I did with mishalla on waterdrops but I do have a video on my channel that should help: ua-cam.com/video/9evXCliX1VE/v-deo.html
And that is one of the live I did with Lisa Cuchara and Mishalla with some water drops examples: ua-cam.com/video/i6dVH3Mt4tI/v-deo.html
Thank you very much, dear Emilie, for finding it. I am excited to see if I can do it. Best wishes, Renate
You seem to really love your little camera. Olympus definitely needs to bring back the Pen F, they can call it Pen F 2.0. Here in Canada the camera is around 1599.00. I was looking for one but then settled on the OMD-EM10 which I paid 200 hundred for. P.S. I look so forward to your Sunday videos.
Thank you so much! OMD-EM10 is excellent too!
Good choice.
Do you have any information about the mark ii?
@@aditiareza i am not aware of any Mark II.
the Lumix 20mm f1.7 and the Olympus BCL 9mm. Would be perfectly jacket pocketable on the Pen-F.
Thank you for the recommendation!
Hi Emilie, I thought you were going to pan the camera because of its eight year old specs, but I was surprised and thrilled that you like the "experience" of the camera, eschewing the autistic need for ever higher megapixels, or the posers need for bragging rights. The simple and unquantifiable pleasure of the experience of a camera that isn't captured by spec sheets. Excellent, the triumph of proof of practice over theory and presumption.
Completely off topic, but is that a Tangem ring you are wearing? Hats off to you if you are 😉
I agree 100%. It is not about megapixels but the experiences you can have with your camera. The ring I am wearing is called an Ultrahuman Ring. Helps track your health.
Oh, the Pen-F... My first digital Olympus and it certainly has a lot of magic. I still use it for MF street photography. AF isn't overwhelming compared to newer bodies. Excellent Olympus lenses: 17mm 1.8, 45mm 1.8. If I needed a wider range the Lumix 45-150 because it's so lightweight. But I also used it in combination with the Kamlan 50mm 1.1. and the Voigtlaender 25mm 0.95. This would be very special lenses for a very special type of low light street shots, very retro, nothing for pixel-peepers. Oh, and you surely tried the Pen-F on your 150-400 at least once, didn't you? 😂
Thank you so much for the recommendation! And yes the sunrise shot was with the 150-400 AHAHA :) Good eye!
Unfortunately, the only Pen F I have owned was an original half-frame film version - and the mirror fell out the fist time I used it - but I still loved it. I've always liked flat-topped cameras (like the E300, which I still have) and can't understand the obsession with a 'fake pentaprism' on mirrorless cameras. Although I have and EM1 and EM1ii, I use an E-PL6 with a Lumix 20mm pancake for much of my photography, just for its small size, and would welcome the chance of a better spec. small camera with no 'bulge' on top and a decent viewfinder. Interesting video, thanks.
That is a great point! Thank you for sharing.
I have an OM-1, and I almost bought a used PEN-F as a second camera last month. Now I regret that I did not buy it. I think OM System should defiantly make a new Pen-F! It could even be in the form of a slightly redesigned E-P7 with EVF instead of flash, which will make it a few mm taller but still much more portable than the OM-5.
Edit: I could not control my desires anymore! I bought a used PEN-F today!
You did?? Congrats! Let me know how much fun you are having with your new Pen-F! Happy shooting!
I keep the M.Zuiko Digital ED 20mm F1.4 PRO on my E-M5 mkIII and in my work bag all the time. It's a great walk around lens in town. Do you have that lens?
@@donaldmiller7098 I do not. Maybe my next purchase?
Olympus Mirrorless cameras where first known for street photo camera (small size and small lenses, extra dof etc) before the wildlife/outdoor change in marketing strategy. The 10series, 5 series and pen series are great for street and EDC. The new marketing strategy can't delete the past. I own PENF and won't sell it.
I love all the rangefinder-style mft cameras, but the prices right now are crazy. There's not that much between a pen-f, gx9... and e-m5 or a gh5, and those have stayed pretty much the same while even the lesser rangefinder bodies went up 50%+ in the last year. I'm hoping this video is a little wink-wink nudge-nudge, because I think a new Pen-F with OM1 technology and a new pancake lens lineup would sell like hot cakes.
BTW, if you're in NH or other northern area with clear skies, I just faintly captured the aurora with my phone less than an hour ago.
I saw it above my house! I went to my location but it was faint when I arrived. Should have stayed home and shoot from my house LOL!
Hello. I have a PEN F and a OM1. I use the PENF mainlly with 17mm f1.8 and the 45mmf1.8. The size of the pen and the om is not so big.I have used the pen for concerts using face trackin and it was great. I will never sell it. I shot with pen or om depending of my will.
hi there, Im a current owner of the PEN-F. what package lens would u recommend for street photo...?
I actually really like the M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 EZ. Got it a few weeks ago. Will talk about it in a future video.
PenF + Zuiko 20mm F1.4 or Lumix Leica 15mm F1.7
Another lens that’s not all that small is the Olympus 20mm f1.4.
Thank you for the recommendation.