Go Ahead, Diss Micro Four Thirds — They’re Used to It

The dawn of 2022 sees not one, but two new top-tier Micro Four Thirds cameras: the OM-System OM-1 followed by the Panasonic GH-6.

For some of us, cheers of celebration ensued. For others (many of whom lurk in the bowels of camera review comments), this was just another dying gasp from the sub-full frame format.

Or to say, business as usual.

The bottom line is that the rock star formerly known as Olympus just won’t go away. In a few days OM System will ship the impressive OM-1 to thousands of photographers who understand that camera size does matter — especially for our backs and shoulders. We know that a 20-megapixel technological wonder that fits in our jacket pocket is just fine for serious photography.

Yes, I said “we.” I placed an order for the OM-1 and its updated 12–40mm lens.

I don’t support OM System and Panasonic because I like underdogs. I run with them because I prefer bull dogs. There’s something about naysayers that just brings out the bark in me.

Speaking of big dogs, I remember meeting one in Austin, Texas, a top Olympus engineer who had designed a number of lenses for them. As he explained the thinking behind the 17mm f/1.2 PRO optic, I saw something in his eyes — genius, passion, determination, I’m not exactly…