In January 2021, OM Digital Solutions officially completed the acquisition of Olympus’s imaging division, closing the chapter on a legacy that had spanned over 85 years. This acquisition marked a pivotal moment in the camera industry, particularly in the Micro Four Thirds ecosystem. With this move, OM Digital Solutions not only inherited Olympus’s loyal user base and technological legacy but also took on the challenge of sustaining and evolving the brand’s camera vision in an increasingly competitive market. As a reassurance to longtime Olympus users, OM Digital Solutions made immediate promises to honor existing warranties and fulfill outstanding orders. More importantly, they emphasized continuity in product development, confirming that new mirrorless cameras and lenses were already in the pipeline. Their first significant release under the new banner—the OM System OM-1—was designed not just to showcase technological innovation but also to pay homage to the Olympus brand. This duality is most visibly expressed in the presence of the Olympus logo across the OM-1’s viewfinder—a final farewell before the transition to OM-only branding in future releases.
A Symbolic Launch: The OM System OM-1
The OM System OM-1 camera represents more than just a product launch; it signifies a renewed identity and direction for the company. In a respectful nod to Olympus’s iconic OM-1 SLR, released 50 years ago, OM Digital Solutions leveraged both legacy and innovation. The result was a camera that bridges the past and future, embracing the Micro Four Thirds format while adopting a new stacked CMOS image sensor for advanced performance. The OM-1 is engineered for high-speed imaging, capturing 4K video at 60 frames per second and 1080p at up to 240 fps. This is complemented by a powerful processor that significantly reduces readout speed, thereby minimizing rolling shutter. This technical evolution makes the OM-1 the most powerful Micro Four Thirds camera that OM Digital Solutions has brought to market.
Design and Ergonomics
From a design perspective, the OM-1 stands out for its excellent ergonomics. The body features a pronounced grip and intuitive button layout, providing a comfortable handling experience during topside use. For underwater photography, the OM-1 is compatible with two main housings currently available—the Ikelite OM System OM-1 housing and the Nauticam OM System OM-1 housing. During testing, the camera was paired with an Ikelite housing and taken diving off the coast of Catalina Island in Southern California. The experience demonstrated that the camera housing combination is compact and easy to maneuver underwater, making it an appealing choice for divers who value both image quality and portability.
Market Position and Initial Impressions
Despite its impressive features, the OM-1 does not cater to everyone. At a price point of $2199.99 for the body alone, it is positioned at the premium end of the Micro Four Thirds spectrum. This pricing puts it in direct competition with full-frame mirrorless cameras from Sony, Canon, and Nikon. For users deeply invested in the Olympus ecosystem—with an existing collection of native Micro Four Thirds lenses—the OM-1 is a logical and exciting upgrade. However, for photographers just entering the mirrorless world, other options may offer better value for money, particularly in terms of sensor size and image quality. Full-frame alternatives like the Sony A7 IV, Canon EOS R6, and Nikon Z6 II deliver superior dynamic range and low-light performance, often within a similar budget. Even APS-C cameras like the Sony A6600 or Nikon Z50 can produce better detail at a lower cost. Nevertheless, for existing Olympus users or those who prioritize compactness, rugged build, and weather resistance, the OM-1 presents a strong case.
A New Beginning with a Familiar Feel
OM Digital Solutions’ approach with the OM-1 is strategic and symbolic. The decision to retain the Olympus branding one last time signifies respect for the brand’s history and the loyalty of its users. More than a rebranding exercise, the OM-1 serves as a statement of intent: OM Digital Solutions is serious about innovation, while remaining grounded in the values and identity that Olympus cultivated over decades. The camera's debut in underwater environments further validates its durability and usability in challenging conditions. For enthusiasts who have followed Olympus through its highs and lows, the OM-1 is more than just a tool—it is a reaffirmation that the journey continues.
Key Features of the OM System OM-1
The OM System OM-1 camera brings a host of technological improvements that signal a new era for Micro Four Thirds systems. At its core is a newly developed 20.4-megapixel stacked BSI CMOS sensor—engineered specifically to overcome the limitations historically associated with Micro Four Thirds sensors. This sensor enables faster data readout, improved image quality, and reduced noise levels. Coupled with the advanced TruePic X image processor, which boasts dual quad-core architecture, the OM-1 achieves remarkable processing speed and responsiveness. The camera can shoot up to 10 frames per second in mechanical shutter mode and up to 120 fps using the electronic shutter in Pro Capture mode, capturing fleeting moments with precision and clarity.
Video capabilities are equally impressive. The OM-1 records 4K UHD and DCI video at up to 60p, with 10-bit 4:2:0 internal recording and support for 10-bit 4:2:2 via HDMI output. It also supports high-speed Full HD video at 240 fps, allowing for slow-motion sequences that remain sharp and smooth. This is a key advantage for wildlife and underwater videographers, enabling detailed capture of fast-moving marine life without sacrificing resolution or frame rate. These enhancements place the OM-1 at the forefront of video performance in the Micro Four Thirds category.
Autofocus and Stabilization Performance
One of the most talked-about improvements in the OM-1 is its autofocus system. Featuring 1,053 cross-type phase-detection autofocus points spread across the entire sensor, the OM-1 delivers fast and accurate subject tracking. The system incorporates AI-based subject detection that can intelligently identify and track a variety of subjects, including humans, animals, birds, and vehicles. In real-world use, this autofocus system proves especially useful for photographing fast-swimming fish or skittish reef dwellers. The camera locks focus quickly and maintains it as the subject moves, even in low-light underwater settings.
The OM-1 also includes advanced in-body image stabilization (IBIS) with 5-axis compensation. When paired with compatible lenses, the stabilization system offers up to 7 stops of shake reduction, making handheld shooting more feasible even in choppy underwater environments or on boats. This level of stabilization is not only beneficial for stills but also for handheld video, where smooth footage is crucial for professional results. Whether you're tracking sea lions in the kelp forest or filming a reef scene handheld, the OM-1's stabilization system supports creative freedom without a tripod or gimbal.
Build Quality and Ergonomics in the Field
Physically, the OM-1 remains compact and lightweight, weighing just 599 grams. Its magnesium alloy body is weather-sealed to IP53 standards, offering protection against dust, splashes, and freezing temperatures. This ruggedness makes it well-suited for adventure photographers who operate in demanding environments—from alpine regions to coastal waters. The layout of the controls has been refined for intuitive handling. The camera features dual control dials, a joystick for menu navigation and focus point selection, and several customizable function buttons.
For those using the OM-1 underwater, these ergonomic improvements translate into easier operation while diving. Once inside an underwater housing like the Ikelite or Nauticam, users can still access essential functions such as ISO, shutter speed, and aperture controls with gloved hands. The fully articulating LCD screen also enhances usability for shooting from difficult angles. This flexibility makes it easier to capture reef scenes from beneath or frame macro shots precisely in tight spaces.
Housing Options for Underwater Photography
There are currently two primary underwater housing options available for the OM System OM-1: the Ikelite and Nauticam models. Both are designed to maintain full access to the camera’s core functionality while protecting it in depths beyond recreational diving limits. The Ikelite housing, made from transparent polycarbonate, offers a lighter and more affordable option. It’s compatible with a wide range of dome and flat ports and includes Dry Lock (DL) port system support. For photographers who prioritize modularity, Ikelite's offerings provide solid value.
Nauticam, on the other hand, provides a more premium aluminum housing with precision controls, vacuum sealing, and port locking systems. Nauticam housings are generally favored by professionals due to their durability and compatibility with a broad lens ecosystem. The port system supports both Olympus and Panasonic lenses, making it versatile for macro, wide-angle, and mid-range applications. For diving on Catalina Island, the Ikelite housing proved more than capable, offering reliable protection and easy usability for multi-dive excursions.
OM-1 Performance in Underwater Environments
When tested in the waters off Catalina Island, the OM System OM-1 impressed in several key areas. Visibility during the dives ranged from 20 to 40 feet, and lighting conditions varied from bright sunlight in the shallows to darker hues deeper in the kelp forest. The OM-1 maintained accurate white balance and color fidelity across conditions. Using manual white balance or color correction filters in post-processing, the camera produced vibrant blues, greens, and natural skin tones.
Dynamic range, while not on par with full-frame sensors, was respectable for Micro Four Thirds. Shadows retained detail, and highlights were controlled with in-camera exposure adjustments. One of the standout moments was capturing a sheephead fish weaving through the kelp. The camera’s fast autofocus locked onto the subject, and the continuous burst mode ensured multiple sharp frames even as the fish darted past the lens. In video mode, the 4K 60p footage was clean, smooth, and usable with little to no rolling shutter—a critical factor when filming active marine subjects.
Ideal Lenses for Underwater Use
The versatility of the OM-1’s Micro Four Thirds mount opens access to a wide array of lenses suitable for underwater photography. For wide-angle scenes, the Olympus 8mm f/1.8 Fisheye PRO lens offers ultra-wide coverage with sharp results across the frame, ideal for capturing reef landscapes and kelp forests. When paired with a dome port, this lens produces minimal distortion and excellent corner sharpness. The Olympus 7–14mm f/2.8 PRO lens is another solid wide-angle choice for both photography and video.
For macro enthusiasts, the Olympus 60mm f/2.8 Macro lens is the go-to option. Its compact size, fast aperture, and excellent detail rendering make it ideal for photographing nudibranchs, shrimps, and other small critters. Autofocus remains snappy even in low light, and the camera's high-resolution mode can be used with a tripod underwater to extract more detail in static macro scenes.
Limitations and Considerations
Despite its strengths, the OM System OM-1 is not without limitations. The smaller sensor size, while enabling a compact body and lens design, does mean that low-light performance and dynamic range fall short of full-frame competitors. High ISO shooting introduces noticeable noise, particularly above ISO 3200, although in-camera noise reduction and post-processing can mitigate this to some extent.
Battery life, while improved with the new BLX-1 battery, still trails behind some DSLRs and full-frame mirrorless systems. Around 520 shots per charge is typical, which is acceptable for day dives but may require additional spares for multi-dive trips or extended shoots. Also, the camera’s inability to include a standalone charger in the box may frustrate some professionals who prefer hot-swapping batteries.
Another limitation lies in third-party support. Because OM Digital Solutions is a relatively new entity, accessories tailored specifically to the OM-1 are still growing in availability. Some older Olympus-branded accessories may work, but full compatibility is not guaranteed. As the ecosystem matures, this is likely to change.
Who Should Consider the OM System OM-1?
The OM-1 is not a universal solution for every photographer. Its appeal is strongest among existing Micro Four Thirds users who have already invested in Olympus glass and understand the trade-offs and benefits of the system. It’s also a compelling option for photographers who prioritize lightweight gear, travel-friendliness, and rugged construction. Wildlife, macro, and underwater shooters who don’t require the depth-of-field control of full-frame sensors will find the OM-1 an efficient and capable tool.
For professionals entering the mirrorless world for the first time, particularly those working in genres like landscape, portrait, or commercial photography, a full-frame system may offer more headroom in terms of dynamic range, shallow depth of field, and lens options. However, for users whose priority is mobility, frame rate, and subject tracking—especially in nature and underwater settings—the OM-1’s value proposition becomes clear.
Real-World Shooting Experience with the OM System OM-1
Shooting with the OM System OM-1 in the field is a unique experience that highlights both the strengths and challenges of Micro Four Thirds systems in a modern mirrorless context. The camera feels remarkably solid in the hand. It’s lightweight without sacrificing build quality, and the weather-sealing offers confidence in unpredictable environments—rain, snow, or spray. With the camera ready to respond quickly to changes in lighting or subject movement, it becomes an extension of the photographer, not a barrier to creativity. On land, the OM-1 excels in fast-action and nature photography, thanks to its impressive frame rates and responsive autofocus. When using AI subject detection, the camera intelligently identifies birds, mammals, and vehicles, locking focus efficiently even through foliage or erratic movements. Photographers covering wildlife or sports benefit from the silent electronic shutter that allows for discreet operation. In urban settings or casual shoots, the fully articulating screen and compact profile make it an excellent street photography tool. You can quickly pull focus, adjust settings, and shoot from creative angles without drawing attention or weighing down your kit.
Underwater Applications: A Deeper Look
Where the OM-1 truly starts to separate itself from larger sensor competitors is in its underwater performance. In compact housings, the camera can dive with minimal bulk, and its high burst rate, rapid autofocus, and image stabilization systems offer unique advantages beneath the surface. During test dives along Catalina Island’s kelp forests, the OM-1 paired with an Ikelite housing delivered consistently strong results. The lighter weight allowed for longer dives without fatigue, and the system maintained buoyancy balance when paired with a strobes-and-arms setup. One of the more challenging aspects of underwater photography is dealing with constantly changing lighting. The OM-1’s white balance performance was highly adaptive, and the camera’s ability to retain detail in both highlights and shadows made post-processing easier. For instance, when photographing schools of fish moving through a mix of direct sunlight and shadowed kelp, the OM-1 managed balanced exposures without aggressive clipping. The Pro Capture mode proved incredibly useful for anticipating quick movements—like a Garibaldi darting between fronds or a sea lion surfacing suddenly in front of the dome port.
Advanced Video Capabilities for Creators
The OM-1 isn’t just for stills. Video creators—both topside and underwater—will find a surprisingly capable cinematic tool in this Micro Four Thirds body. The camera records 4K DCI and UHD internally at up to 60 fps in 10-bit 4:2:0, delivering footage that can be color graded for professional workflows. With a flat OM-Log profile available, users can push dynamic range further during editing. The addition of 240 fps slow-motion in 1080p makes this camera appealing for action-heavy environments. Paired with Olympus or Panasonic lenses that feature silent autofocus motors, video is rendered with fluid focus transitions and sharp clarity. The IBIS allows handheld shooting without the wobble commonly seen in unstabilized clips, making it ideal for dynamic movement—especially underwater, where gimbals are impractical. Audio is another consideration. The OM-1 includes mic and headphone jacks, allowing monitoring and input control for professional sound. This is a notable feature in a body of this size, especially when compared to some APS-C and full-frame competitors that lack headphone monitoring altogether. For travel vloggers, marine documentary makers, or hybrid creators who need stills and video in one compact system, the OM-1 delivers balanced power.
Menu Overhaul and Customization
One of the standout quality-of-life upgrades in the OM-1 is the completely redesigned menu system. Previous Olympus cameras were often criticized for cluttered, unintuitive menus that buried settings behind layers of icons. The OM-1 fixes this. The new menu takes a page from Sony’s logical structure while retaining the Olympus identity. Categories are cleaner, settings are better grouped, and color-coding helps users identify photo, video, and customization options quickly. For new users, tooltips explain why certain features may be disabled, saving time and confusion. For professionals, the deep customization of buttons, dials, and function sets allows full personalization. You can assign ISO, white balance, AF point size, or even focus peaking to any of the customizable buttons. Presets for video and photo modes can be toggled instantly—useful when switching between wide-angle reef shots and macro scenes with completely different settings.
Lens Ecosystem Compatibility
A major strength of the OM System OM-1 lies in the vast lens ecosystem of the Micro Four Thirds mount. This includes not only Olympus-branded lenses but also a wide range of options from Panasonic, Sigma, Laowa, and third-party manufacturers. For underwater use, this flexibility is gold. Macro shooters might favor the Olympus 60mm f/2.8 Macro, while wide-angle enthusiasts often opt for the Olympus 8mm f/1.8 Fisheye PRO. For general-purpose diving, the Olympus 12–40mm f/2.8 PRO lens offers mid-range versatility with sharp optics and reliable performance. The advantage here is that all these lenses are smaller and lighter than their APS-C or full-frame equivalents, which translates to smaller domes and port systems. This reduces buoyancy challenges underwater and makes air travel with gear significantly more manageable. Additionally, many legacy Olympus lenses retain excellent performance on the OM-1 body thanks to effective in-camera corrections, meaning long-time Olympus users can reuse older gear without compromise.
Storage and Workflow Considerations
The OM-1 includes dual SD card slots, both supporting UHS-II speeds, allowing for flexible storage options. You can record JPEGs to one card and RAWs to another, or set up sequential recording for extended shoots. For hybrid shooters, video files can be routed to a specific card for easier file management. This feature is particularly beneficial during multi-dive trips where you may want to back up one card and swap another between dives. In terms of battery workflow, the new BLX-1 battery provides a moderate boost in performance but comes with the caveat of USB-only charging unless a separate charger is purchased. While USB-C charging is convenient on the go, professional users might find it frustrating not to have a dedicated external charger by default. Still, the camera supports USB power delivery, allowing extended shooting with external battery banks—particularly useful during fieldwork or long surface intervals between dives.
Color Science and Image Rendering
Color rendering in the OM System OM-1 has improved significantly compared to previous Olympus cameras. Skin tones are more natural, blues are vibrant but not overly saturated, and greens maintain their hue accuracy without casting yellow. JPEG color profiles out of the camera are usable for social media or quick client previews, and the RAW files offer decent latitude for grading. Olympus has long been praised for its pleasing color science, especially in skin tones and warm natural palettes, and OM Digital Solutions has refined this further in the OM-1. Underwater photographers benefit greatly from the color retention. In shallow reef environments, where red tones are often lost, the camera’s sensor retains enough color information for effective color correction. Combined with custom white balance or red filters, even deeper environments maintain natural color balance with minimal post-processing effort.
Comparison with Competing Cameras
Comparing the OM System OM-1 to competitors helps clarify where it stands in today’s market. Compared to the Sony A7 IV, Canon EOS R6, or Nikon Z6 II, the OM-1 has a smaller sensor and slightly less dynamic range. However, it beats them on burst shooting, in-body stabilization, compactness, and lens size. In scenarios where portability, weight, and ruggedness matter—such as diving or wildlife expeditions—the OM-1 pulls ahead. Against APS-C systems like the Fujifilm X-T5 or Sony A6600, the OM-1 holds its ground well in terms of autofocus and build quality, though Fujifilm may offer better color depth in RAW. For underwater users, the smaller form factor of Micro Four Thirds continues to make the OM-1 a smart, capable choice over bulky full-frame alternatives—especially when packing for international dive travel where luggage size and weight restrictions apply.
The OM-1 in the Future of Micro Four Thirds
The OM-1 is more than just a camera; it is a flagbearer for the future of Micro Four Thirds systems. In an industry increasingly focused on full-frame dominance, OM Digital Solutions has made a compelling argument for the relevance of smaller sensor formats. Their focus on portability, high-speed performance, and ecosystem longevity addresses niches that full-frame manufacturers often overlook. For the traveling photographer, naturalist, or diver, these benefits are not just technical—they’re practical. OM Digital Solutions has shown that innovation can still happen outside of full-frame dominance, and the OM-1 is proof that Micro Four Thirds still has life and purpose.
Specialized Use Cases and Niche Strengths
While the OM System OM-1 may not be the top recommendation for every genre of photography, its strengths shine in specialized fields where its unique balance of size, speed, and ruggedness provides real-world advantages. In wildlife photography, for instance, the OM-1 allows photographers to capture fast-moving subjects with minimal shutter lag and an astonishing 120 frames per second in burst mode using the electronic shutter. Combined with AI-based subject detection that recognizes birds and animals, it becomes a powerful tool for tracking unpredictable behavior in the field.
Its 2x crop factor is also particularly beneficial for telephoto shooting. A 300mm lens on the OM-1 delivers an equivalent 600mm field of view, allowing photographers to achieve extreme reach without the physical bulk or cost associated with full-frame equivalents. For birders, safari photographers, or sports shooters, this makes the OM-1 an economical and portable alternative to much heavier gear. In macro photography, the smaller sensor size provides increased depth of field at any given aperture, a valuable trait when working with tiny subjects at close distances where keeping all parts of the image in focus is often challenging.
Underwater photographers, as discussed earlier, benefit from the camera’s compact form factor and broad housing support. Whether shooting coral reefs, deep wrecks, or fast-moving pelagics, the OM-1 maintains strong white balance and autofocus performance across a variety of underwater lighting environments. Additionally, the high frame rate options and Pro Capture mode allow for creative techniques such as freeze-framing mid-action behaviors like feeding, spawning, or predator-prey interactions.
Durability and Long-Term Reliability
Durability is another area where the OM System OM-1 stands apart. Constructed from a weather-sealed magnesium alloy chassis, it has earned an IP53 rating for resistance to dust, splashes, and cold weather. This level of protection is rarely seen in compact mirrorless cameras and lends itself well to field conditions, whether shooting in the Arctic tundra or a tropical rainforest. Users have reported continued performance even after extended use in harsh environments—thanks to both the tight seals on the body and the robust internal systems.
Another contributor to the camera’s longevity is its simple, proven interface. Dials, buttons, and menus are logically arranged and built to last. Unlike touch-only systems, the physical controls on the OM-1 provide tactile feedback even through gloves or housings, reducing the chance of operational errors. This is critical in extreme environments where touchscreen use becomes impractical.
The dual SD card slots also offer redundancy in file storage, a significant consideration for professionals working on critical assignments. With the ability to record to both cards simultaneously, users have peace of mind knowing that backup copies are automatically generated with every frame captured.
Community Reception and Industry Response
Since its release, the OM System OM-1 has received largely positive reviews from the photography and videography communities. Long-time Olympus users welcomed it as a worthy successor to the beloved E-M1 series. Reviewers consistently praised its autofocus improvements, faster processing, and responsive handling. Particularly in wildlife and bird photography forums, the camera has become a popular recommendation for those who prioritize speed, compactness, and high telephoto reach.
In underwater communities, the OM-1 quickly earned praise for its usability in housings and compatibility with a wide range of ports and strobes. Its ability to shoot 4K/60p video underwater without overheating or distortion further positioned it as a strong choice for marine videographers and naturalists. Social media groups and photography blogs have highlighted it as a tool that doesn’t pretend to compete with full-frame in every category, but instead doubles down on what Micro Four Thirds does best—mobility, speed, and real-world versatility.
Some criticism has been leveled at the price point, with potential buyers noting that $2199 is a significant investment for a smaller sensor system. However, many users counter that the savings in lens and accessory size, plus long-term system compatibility, often offset the higher upfront body cost. The argument continues in enthusiast circles: is sensor size the ultimate measure of image quality, or should functionality and design weigh more heavily? The OM-1 has proven that, at least for some users, a well-executed camera can stand confidently without chasing full-frame trends.
Software and Firmware Development
Beyond hardware, OM Digital Solutions has shown an ongoing commitment to firmware updates and performance improvements. Since launch, the OM-1 has received several firmware updates aimed at improving autofocus tracking accuracy, adding lens compatibility, and expanding menu customizability. This proactive support is critical in building user trust and ensuring that early adopters benefit from continued refinement of their gear.
One particularly useful software integration is the OM Image Share mobile app, which allows remote control of the camera and wireless transfer of photos and videos. The app has been improved significantly over past versions, offering faster pairing, smoother gallery previews, and easier sharing to social media. These small improvements contribute to a streamlined user experience that fits into modern, connected workflows.
For desktop users, the OM Workspace software offers tools for RAW editing, image rating, and batch processing. While it may not replace Adobe Lightroom or Capture One for professional users, it provides a solid foundation for quick edits and tethered shooting—especially useful in studio setups or scientific applications.
Educational and Professional Ecosystem
OM Digital Solutions has also made efforts to support educational and professional communities through ambassador programs, webinars, and field workshops. Their growing network of content creators and professional photographers plays a key role in demonstrating real-world applications of the OM-1 and offering tips for maximizing its potential. Online courses, shooting guides, and webinars have helped reduce the learning curve for new users, particularly those transitioning from smartphones or DSLRs.
In addition, the camera is gaining traction in scientific and industrial sectors where reliability, portability, and precision are valued. Researchers, conservationists, and field scientists appreciate the OM-1’s ruggedness and image quality in environments where large DSLRs or cinema rigs are impractical. This broadens the camera’s relevance beyond creative photography, embedding it in practical, real-world problem-solving.
Environmental Considerations and Market Identity
One under-discussed benefit of Micro Four Thirds systems is their lower environmental footprint. Smaller sensors require smaller lenses, housings, and cases. This reduces material use in manufacturing and carbon costs in shipping. For eco-conscious creators, this is an increasingly relevant factor in gear decisions. The OM System OM-1 offers a chance to lower travel weight without sacrificing too much in performance—a win-win for creators who often work in sensitive or remote ecosystems.
In terms of brand identity, OM Digital Solutions has succeeded in carving out a distinct image for the OM System brand, separate yet respectful of its Olympus heritage. The decision to retain the Olympus logo on the OM-1 as a tribute while preparing for a future without it was a clever move. It acknowledges loyal users while signaling the transition to a new era—one that emphasizes technology, specialization, and independence from the expectations of legacy branding.
Conclusion
The OM System OM-1 is a camera that arrives at a critical crossroads—not only for its manufacturer, OM Digital Solutions, but for the entire Micro Four Thirds format. It demonstrates that smaller sensors and compact designs still have a valid and powerful place in the world of modern imaging. By focusing on speed, portability, advanced autofocus, and real-world ruggedness, the OM-1 appeals to users whose work and passion take them beyond studio walls and into the elements.
For photographers who specialize in wildlife, macro, and underwater photography, the OM-1 delivers a refined, purpose-driven experience. It honors the Olympus legacy while introducing modern enhancements that make it more responsive, intelligent, and versatile than any previous Micro Four Thirds camera. Its limitations in sensor size are real, but for many, the trade-offs are more than acceptable given the camera’s other strengths.
As OM Digital Solutions continues to innovate and expand its ecosystem, the OM-1 stands as a bold first step—a flagship model that proves the company is capable of not just continuing Olympus’s journey but leading it into a new chapter. It won’t replace full-frame for those chasing the shallowest depth of field or highest dynamic range. But it doesn’t have to. Instead, it offers something equally valuable: a professional-grade tool in a compact, reliable package that’s ready to go wherever the story leads.