The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II is a flagship mirrorless camera designed to deliver professional-level performance for both photography and videography. It represents a significant upgrade over its predecessor, featuring a 20 megapixel Live MOS sensor, advanced 5-axis image stabilization, and a highly sophisticated autofocus system. The camera is built for speed, durability, and image quality, making it a favorite for a wide range of photography applications, including wildlife, sports, and travel. What sets this camera apart for underwater photographers is its ability to maintain exceptional performance in challenging environments. With the OM-D E-M1 Mark II, Olympus has refined its Micro Four Thirds system to achieve a balance between compact design and professional functionality.
To complement this camera, Nauticam has developed a dedicated underwater housing that combines compact size with robust engineering. Nauticam has earned a reputation for designing housings that are ergonomic, durable, and easy to use, and the NA-EM1II housing for the OM-D E-M1 Mark II continues that tradition. Constructed from a solid aluminum block, this housing ensures long-term durability and provides excellent protection against the harsh underwater environment. It is designed to keep all camera controls easily accessible, mirroring the operational feel of a DSLR housing while maintaining a smaller footprint.
The release of this camera and housing combination has generated considerable excitement in the underwater photography community. It merges the technological advancements of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II with Nauticam’s engineering expertise, offering a professional-level system capable of producing outstanding images beneath the surface. This first part explores the camera’s core specifications, the design philosophy behind the Nauticam housing, and the impact of this pairing on underwater photography as a whole.
Advancements in the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II represents a leap forward for the Micro Four Thirds system, incorporating a range of upgrades designed to meet the needs of professional photographers. At the heart of the camera is a 20 megapixel Live MOS sensor that offers improved resolution compared to previous models. This sensor works in combination with dual quad-core processors, enabling high-speed performance and efficient image processing. One of the standout features of this camera is its ability to shoot at an impressive 60 frames per second in burst mode when using the electronic shutter, or 18 frames per second with continuous autofocus engaged. This level of speed makes it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects underwater, such as fish or marine mammals, where split-second timing is essential.
Another significant advancement is the 121-point dual fast autofocus system, which covers approximately 75 to 80 percent of the frame. This autofocus array is designed to lock onto subjects quickly and track them accurately, reducing hunting and missed shots. For underwater photography, where subjects often move unpredictably and lighting can be challenging, a reliable autofocus system is crucial. The E-M1 Mark II’s autofocus performance allows photographers to maintain focus on dynamic scenes with a high level of confidence.
The camera’s 5-axis in-body image stabilization is another critical feature, providing up to 5.5 stops of compensation. This system minimizes camera shake and allows for handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds, which is particularly valuable underwater where tripods are rarely practical. Combined with the camera’s fully articulating 3-inch LCD and high-resolution electronic viewfinder, photographers have flexible options for composing their shots, whether shooting stills or video.
Ergonomics and Battery Life
When designing the OM-D E-M1 Mark II, Olympus made a deliberate effort to avoid compromising handling in the pursuit of compactness. The camera features a substantial hand grip that provides excellent ergonomics even when using larger lenses. This design consideration is especially important underwater, where a secure and comfortable grip on the camera is necessary due to buoyancy and the need to operate controls with gloves.
Battery life is another area where the E-M1 Mark II excels compared to many other mirrorless cameras. It houses a large battery capable of delivering approximately 440 shots per charge based on CIPA ratings, with real-world use often exceeding that number. For underwater photographers who may spend long periods submerged without the ability to change batteries, extended battery life is a practical advantage that ensures more time shooting and less time worrying about power management.
4K Video and Versatility
In addition to still photography, the OM-D E-M1 Mark II offers professional-grade video capabilities. It supports both UHD and Cinema 4K recording at high bitrates, providing detailed and vibrant footage. When paired with the camera’s advanced image stabilization system, videographers can achieve smooth, cinematic results even when shooting handheld underwater. The ability to output HDMI to an external monitor further enhances video production, offering improved framing, exposure checks, and focus confirmation.
The versatility of the OM-D E-M1 Mark II makes it well-suited for a variety of underwater photography styles. From wide-angle reefscapes and wreck dives to close-up macro work, the camera’s combination of speed, resolution, and stabilization ensures that it can handle diverse scenarios. This adaptability is one of the reasons it has been embraced by both professional and enthusiast underwater photographers.
Nauticam NA-EM1II Housing Design
To unlock the full potential of the OM-D E-M1 Mark II underwater, Nauticam has developed the NA-EM1II housing. This housing is engineered to provide complete access to all camera controls while maintaining a compact and lightweight form factor. Nauticam’s experience with mirrorless camera housings is evident in the design, which balances ergonomics, durability, and functionality.
The housing features integrated handles that provide a stable platform for operating the camera, even in challenging conditions. An ergonomic shutter release lever, thumb lever for AE-L/AF-L, and strategically placed control dials replicate the operational feel of Nauticam’s DSLR housings. This consistency allows photographers familiar with the brand to transition seamlessly between different camera systems while maintaining the same intuitive control layout.
Constructed from a single block of solid aluminum, the housing offers exceptional strength and corrosion resistance. This design not only protects the camera but also ensures the housing can withstand years of use in saltwater environments. The placement of buttons and dials is carefully considered, with enough spacing to allow for easy operation by feel, even when wearing thick gloves required for cold-water diving.
Integrated Features and Customization
One of the standout aspects of the Nauticam NA-EM1II housing is its integration of advanced features designed to enhance underwater shooting. It includes circuitry for vacuum monitoring and leak detection as standard equipment. When paired with an optional vacuum valve, this system provides real-time assurance of the housing’s water-tight integrity, giving photographers peace of mind during dives.
The housing also incorporates Nauticam’s patented port locking lever, which simplifies lens port changes without the need for twisting or force. This system is particularly valuable when switching between wide-angle and macro lenses on a dive trip, allowing photographers to adapt their setup quickly and efficiently.
Nauticam supports the housing with an extensive accessory lineup, including a range of lens ports and wet-mount optics such as the Compact Macro Converter and Wet Wide Lens. These accessories allow photographers to customize their system to suit specific shooting scenarios, expanding creative possibilities underwater.
The locking camera tray ensures precise positioning of the camera within the housing, maintaining alignment of controls and providing secure support even when using heavy lenses. Rubberized zoom and focus knobs, integrated stainless steel handle brackets, and multiple lanyard attachment points further enhance the usability and flexibility of the system.
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II and Nauticam NA-EM1II housing combination represents a powerful toolset for underwater photographers seeking professional-level performance in a compact package. The camera’s advancements in resolution, autofocus, image stabilization, and video capability provide a strong foundation for capturing stunning underwater images. Nauticam’s housing design builds on this foundation by delivering ergonomic controls, robust construction, and thoughtful features that meet the demands of real-world diving environments.
This first part has examined the core specifications of the camera, the ergonomic and technical considerations that make it suitable for underwater use, and the key elements of Nauticam’s housing design. The following parts will explore lens compatibility, accessory options, field performance, and practical tips for maximizing the potential of this system in diverse underwater photography situations.
The Evolution of Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II represents a leap forward in the world of mirrorless cameras, offering a combination of cutting-edge technology and user-friendly features. It builds upon the legacy of the original E-M1 by improving almost every aspect of performance and functionality. With a 20MP Live MOS sensor, the camera offers a significant upgrade in resolution, making it ideal for photographers who need fine detail and sharpness in their images. The dual quad-core processors allow for incredibly fast performance, supporting 60 frames per second burst shooting and 18 frames per second with continuous autofocus. This speed ensures that action shots and moving subjects can be captured with precision and clarity, making the camera a favorite among sports and wildlife photographers.
The 121-point dual fast autofocus system is one of the standout features. Covering 75–80% of the frame, it locks onto subjects quickly and maintains focus even when they are in motion. This is essential for underwater photography, where subjects such as marine life rarely stay still. The E-M1 Mark II also includes advanced 5-axis image stabilization, which is extremely beneficial when shooting in challenging underwater conditions where holding the camera steady can be difficult. This stabilization helps reduce blur and enhances image quality, especially in low light or when using longer lenses.
Olympus has also designed the E-M1 Mark II with user ergonomics in mind. The substantial hand grip provides a comfortable and secure hold, even when using larger lenses or shooting for extended periods. This design choice also accommodates a larger battery, which offers around 440 shots per charge according to CIPA standards, though real-world usage often exceeds this number. This is a crucial improvement for underwater photographers who may not have the opportunity to change batteries frequently during a dive.
Another key feature is the camera’s ability to shoot in both UHD and Cinema 4K video formats with high bitrate recording. When combined with the advanced image stabilization, it allows for smooth and professional-quality video capture underwater. The fully articulating 3-inch LCD and high-resolution electronic viewfinder provide flexible composition options and clear viewing even in bright or underwater conditions. The camera also offers HDMI output to connect to an external monitor for improved framing and exposure checks, making it suitable for professional video production.
Nauticam NA-EM1II Housing Design Philosophy
Nauticam has built a reputation for producing durable and highly functional underwater housings, and the NA-EM1II is no exception. Crafted from a solid block of aluminum, the housing ensures longevity and can withstand the demanding conditions of underwater photography. Despite its compact size, Nauticam has managed to include all the essential features without compromising usability or durability. The housing provides access to all critical camera controls, allowing photographers to operate the camera efficiently while submerged.
One of the defining characteristics of the NA-EM1II is its ergonomic design. The integrated handles offer a stable and comfortable grip, essential for maintaining control during dives. The controls are designed to mimic the operational feel of Nauticam’s DSLR housings, ensuring that photographers who are used to larger systems can transition smoothly. The shutter release lever and AE-L/AF-L thumb lever are strategically placed for quick access, while the control dials are positioned to allow easy adjustments even when wearing gloves. This attention to detail reflects Nauticam’s focus on creating a housing that performs seamlessly in real-world conditions.
The housing also features an integrated vacuum monitoring and leak detection system, a critical safety measure for underwater use. When combined with the optional Nauticam M14 Vacuum Valve, the system provides constant monitoring of the housing’s water-tight integrity. The simple green light indicator reassures divers that the setup is safe to take underwater. This feature greatly reduces the risk of flooding, which can cause significant damage to both the camera and housing.
The port locking lever is another patented Nauticam feature that stands out. It allows effortless port changes without the need for twisting, making it easy to switch between lenses or ports during a shoot. This system ensures a secure seal and provides unmatched ease of use compared to traditional methods. For underwater photographers who often need to adapt to changing shooting conditions quickly, this feature is a major advantage.
Accessory Support and Lens Options
Nauticam offers an extensive lineup of accessories to complement the NA-EM1II housing, allowing photographers to customize their setups for various shooting scenarios. A wide range of lens ports supports all popular Micro Four Thirds lenses, ensuring compatibility and flexibility. Accessory lenses such as the Compact Macro Converter and Wet Wide Lens can be easily attached using a bayonet system, enabling photographers to switch between wide-angle and macro shooting on the same dive.
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II, when paired with the Nauticam Wet Wide Lens (WWL-1) and Olympus 14–42mm or 12–50mm lenses, offers exceptional image quality. The WWL-1 provides a full zoom-through ultra-wide-angle field of view and delivers corner sharpness and clarity that rivals or exceeds traditional wide-angle dome port setups. This versatility allows underwater photographers to capture both expansive scenes and close-focus wide-angle shots without changing lenses or ports.
For macro photography, the Nauticam Compact Macro Converter (CMC-1) transforms the Olympus 60mm f/2.8 Macro lens into a powerful super macro tool, capable of capturing subjects as small as 8mm across. This combination is perfect for photographing tiny marine creatures with stunning detail. The Micro Four Thirds system also supports several other lenses that perform exceptionally well underwater, including the Panasonic Lumix G Fisheye 8mm f/3.5 for close-focus wide-angle shots and the Panasonic Lumix G Vario 7–14mm f/4.0 for rectilinear wide-angle photography without fisheye distortion.
Performance and Real-World Application
The combination of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II and Nauticam NA-EM1II housing creates a system capable of handling a wide range of underwater photography scenarios. The camera’s fast autofocus and burst shooting capabilities make it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects such as fish or marine mammals. The image stabilization and high-resolution sensor ensure that both stills and videos are sharp and vibrant, even in challenging lighting conditions.
Underwater photographers often face unpredictable environments, and the robust construction of the Nauticam housing provides peace of mind. The integrated handles and well-placed controls allow for steady shooting and quick adjustments without taking eyes off the subject. Whether capturing wide seascapes, detailed macro shots, or cinematic underwater video, this setup delivers professional-level results.
In real-world use, the extended battery life of the E-M1 Mark II becomes a major advantage during long dive sessions. The ability to shoot both stills and 4K video without worrying about running out of power adds to the camera’s appeal. Combined with Nauticam’s user-friendly design and safety features, the system offers reliability and performance that underwater photographers can depend on.
Introduction to Advanced Underwater Shooting
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II, combined with a Nauticam housing, is one of the most versatile underwater photography systems. Its compact micro four-thirds sensor, fast autofocus, and image stabilization make it ideal for capturing both wide reefs and tiny macro subjects. With the Nauticam housing’s precise engineering, this setup becomes reliable for recreational and professional underwater work.
2. Optimizing Camera Settings for Underwater Use
Wide-Angle Reef & Big Animals
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Mode: Manual
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Aperture: f/8 – f/11
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Shutter Speed: 1/125 – 1/250
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ISO: 200–400
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Focus Mode: Continuous AF + Tracking
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White Balance: Manual slate or Auto
Macro Photography
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Mode: Manual
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Aperture: f/16 – f/22
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Shutter Speed: 1/160 – 1/250
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ISO: 200
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Focus: Single Point AF + Focus Peaking
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Use Focus Bracketing for tiny critters.
Wreck & Cave Photography
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Mode: Manual
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Aperture: f/5.6 – f/8
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Shutter Speed: 1/60 – 1/100
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ISO: 400–800
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Use video lights for constant illumination.
Pro Tip: Assign a custom button for back-button focus to reduce focus hunting.
3. Recommended Accessories & Configurations
Lenses
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Olympus 8mm f/1.8 PRO Fisheye – Ultra-wide reef shots
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Olympus 7–14mm f/2.8 PRO – Versatile zoom
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Olympus 60mm f/2.8 Macro – Small critters
Ports
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Nauticam 140mm Optical Dome (8mm fisheye)
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Nauticam 180mm/170mm Dome (7–14mm zoom)
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Nauticam Flat Port 65 (60mm macro)
Lighting
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Dual strobes (Sea&Sea YS-D3, Inon Z-330)
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Video lights (BigBlue, Kraken)
Other Gear
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Carbon-fiber arms with floats
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Vacuum valve & pump
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Wet diopters (+5, +10) for super macro
4. Nauticam Housing Maintenance & Care
Before Every Dive
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Inspect and clean O-rings.
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Apply silicone grease lightly.
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Assemble in a clean, dry space.
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Test the vacuum system.
After Every Dive
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Rinse in fresh water.
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Operate buttons to flush salt.
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Dry before opening.
Periodic Care
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Replace O-rings every 6–12 months.
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Annual professional servicing.
5. Real-World Dive Scenarios
A. Wide-Angle Coral Reef
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Lens: 8mm fisheye
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Dome: 140mm glass
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Strobes angled outwards to avoid backscatter.
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Get close to the reef and shoot upwards for dramatic light.
B. Macro Nudibranch
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Lens: 60mm macro + Wet Diopter
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Strobes close to the lens
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Manual focus + peaking for precision.
C. Wreck Penetration
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Lens: 7–14mm
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Use dual video lights.
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Slower shutter to capture ambient
D. Fast Sharks
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Lens: 8mm fisheye
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Shutter: 1/320
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Continuous AF tracking
6. Tips for Every Skill Level
For Beginners
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Start with macro (less water between the lens and subject).
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Practice buoyancy before shooting.
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Always shoot RAW.
For Intermediate Shooters
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Experiment with strobe angles.
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Use custom white balance at depth.
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Learn Pro Capture Mode.
For Professionals
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Focus stacking for super macro.
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Manual strobe control for consistency.
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Use High-Res Shot Mode for detailed reefscapes.
7. Troubleshooting Common Issues
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Fogging: Use silica gel, avoid sealing in humid rooms.
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Button stiffness: Rinse & lubricate.
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Backscatter: Get closer, angle strobes, avoid silty bottoms.
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Vacuum alarm false triggers: Check O-rings and hairline cracks.
8. Final Thoughts
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II with Nauticam housing offers a compact yet professional underwater photography solution. With proper settings, maintenance, and practice, this system can deliver world-class underwater images whether you’re shooting coral reefs, fast sharks, or tiny critters.
Mastering Lighting Underwater
Lighting is one of the biggest challenges underwater due to light loss and color absorption. With the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II and Nauticam housing, you can achieve professional results by understanding strobe placement and natural light usage.
Strobe Techniques
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Close Focus Wide Angle (CFWA): Keep strobes wide apart, angled outward, and positioned slightly behind the port to avoid backscatter.
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Macro Lighting: Use inward strobe angles or snoots to create dramatic lighting on small subjects.
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Backlighting: Position strobes behind the subject for a halo effect.
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Ambient Light Blending: Lower strobe power to balance natural light and colors.
2. Advanced Camera Features
Pro Capture Mode
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Great for fast-moving fish or action shots.
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Pre-buffer frames before the shutter press for perfect timing.
Focus Stacking
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Use Olympus in-camera focus bracketing.
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Great for macro to achieve a greater depth of field.
Custom Modes
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Save different setups for Macro, Wide-Angle, and Wrecks on C1, C2, and C3 for quick switching underwater.
3. Color Correction & White Balance
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Shoot in RAW for maximum flexibility.
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Use custom white balance at depth with a white slate.
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Correct blues and greens in post using Lightroom or Photoshop.
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Use filters like Magic Filters for natural light shooting at shallow depths.
4. Post-Processing Workflow
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Import RAW files into Lightroom.
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Apply lens corrections (especially dome ports).
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Adjust white balance to restore natural colors.
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Reduce backscatter with spot removal.
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Enhance contrast and clarity for underwater sharpness.
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Export high-resolution images for printing or online use.
5. Safety & Best Practices
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Always check housing seals before entry.
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Use a lanyard or clip for security.
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Never compromise buoyancy control for a shot.
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Respect marine life; avoid touching corals or disturbing animals.
Conclusion
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II with a Nauticam housing is a powerful yet compact underwater photography system that offers professional capabilities without the bulk of full-frame rigs. Its fast autofocus, image stabilization, and versatility in both wide and macro photography make it a favorite among divers worldwide.
By mastering lighting techniques, optimizing camera settings, and maintaining your housing carefully, you can create stunning underwater images that capture the beauty of the ocean. Whether you are a beginner starting with macro shots or a professional chasing sharks in blue water, this setup can grow with you and deliver exceptional results.
With consistent practice, proper post-processing, and respect for the underwater environment, this system will allow you to tell captivating visual stories of the world beneath the waves.