Olympus Expands OM-D Series with OM-D E-M1X

Olympus OM-D E-M1X

Olympus announced an expansion to their OM-D Series today with the introduction of the OM-D E-M1X professional Micro Four Thirds interchangeable lens camera.

  • New OM-D E-M1X scheduled to go on sale Feb. 22, 2019 at a starting price of $2999

  • Pre-order on Amazon, Adorama, B&H Photo, and Olympus

  • The world’s highest image stabilization performance (approximately 7.5 shutter speed steps of compensation)

  • 60 fps continuous shooting and smart AF selector features

E-M1X Speed and Durability

The OM-D E-M1X is built for action. In their promotions for the new camera, Olympus claims the E-M1X is “Built to do one thing perfectly: NEVER MISS”. Highlighted by DPReview, the E-M1x ‘can shoot at 18 fps with continuous autofocus’. This is beyond powerful when it comes to capturing moving objects and fast-paced events.

The camera is lighter, smaller, and faster because of the mirrorless platform. This allowed Olympus to add more mobility to the E-M1X. Combine the lightweight design with the integrated vertical grip, and you have a real beast for sports and action based photography.

olympus om-d e-m1x vertical grip

Photo: Olympus

A Redesigned Autofocus System

One of the most pertinent features of a camera used in action photography is the AF System. The E-M1X has one of the most advanced systems developed 121 points and intelligent detection capabilities.

It features a new 25-point AF Target Mode for tracking moving objects. Includes five other AF target presets: Single, Group 5-point, Group 9-point, 121 point, Small AF

Joystick multi selector (pictured right) lets you shift your AF area while shooting sequentially or capturing video.

af target modes olympus om-d e-m1x

Photo: Olympus

olympus joystick for af selection

Photo: Olympus

 

Technical Specs

The E-M1X weights 330g, which is around .75 lbs, and measures about 6 inches vertical.

There is a 20.4 Megapixel Live sensor and the camera features Dual TruePic™ Processors with Dual F.A.S.T. AF (Contrast & Phase Detection AF) 121 Point (All Cross Type) On-Chip Phase Detection.

The E-M1X also has 5-Axis Image Stabilization with up to 7.5 Shutter Speed Steps Compensation, an improvement from previous capabilities.

Some of the special features include:

  • 4k Video Capture (30/25/24 fps) with OM-Log Mode

  • Dual Battery Slots with USB Type C In-camera Charging

  • Live Neutral Density Filter

  • Dual UHS-II SD Card Slots

  • 400,000 shot shutter life

olympus om-d e-m1x size

Photo: Olympus

Video & Moviemaking Features

The ‘E-M1X is a master at movie-making’ according to Olympus. Ultra-high Cinema 4K (C4K, 4096 x 2160) movie format, electronic stabilization, and support for log shooting make this a useful tool for cinematographers, especially in regards to color grading.

OM-Log is Olympus’ solution to changing light conditions and loss of detail in shadows/highlights. The Log format compared to Flat maximizes dynamic range making it easier to color grade projects.

To top it all off, 120 fps high-speed movies are now supported in Full HD. This allows you to capture cinematic shots, movies, and clips with a slow-motion perception.

om-d-e-m1x-video features

Photo: Olympus

Pricing & Availability

The OM-D E-M1X is scheduled to go on sale Feb. 22, 2019 at a starting price of $2999. Pre-order on Amazon, Adorama, B&H Photo, and Olympus.

Select accessories including Electronic Flash and Wireless Commanders/Receivers will be launched with the OM-D E-M1X.

olympus fl-700wr flash

Photo: Olympus

olympus FC-WR Wireless Flash Commander

Photo: Olympus

SEE ALSO – Top Photography Gear Announced at CES 2019

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