Now I'm going to do something different and...

...perhaps not what you would expect. I'm going to recommend another brand of camera (before it's gone) that will absolutely delight avid Oly users because of it's strong color tonality. In fact, this color tonality is so Oly-like that I'd say it's close to being "Kodak-like."

As a matter of background info, although I'm quite the avid Oly user (both in 4/3 and micro 4/3), I also have embraced other brands in my collection. One of my "other" favorite brands is the Fuji line of cameras.

Fuji has an entry level mirrorless camera called the X-A1 which does not have the X Trans sensor - rather, it has a regular APS-C sized sensor (Bayer) and yes, it's 16 MP's. I have the X-E1, along with the X10, X20, X-S1, and HS-50 EXR. So when I first saw this X-A1 upon it's release I just paid it no mind.

Approximately 6 months ago I managed to get a fantastic deal on an X-A1 and after having seen a variety of well-taken photos with this model, the first thing that struck my mind was how rich and dynamic the colors were on the images taken with this camera. I kept thinking "Olympus and Kodak-like," so I jumped in and purchased one.

Well all you Oly lovers out there, let me push the envelope here a bit and say that I strongly recommend that you check out the X-A1. Although it has a plastic body, it's exceptionally well constructed (very solid) and the 16-50 XC lens that comes with it (equivalent to a 24-75 zoom) is actually quite impressive optically. I wouldn't even refer to this lens as a kit lens (other than the fact it has a plastic mount). The lens has an OIS system that garners 3+ stops and the clarity is superb.  It's high ISO performance is superb and offers you a variety of DR options - up to 400% DR.

So there...I did it! But again - if you have the bucks to spare, this X-A1, although a Fuji design, has all the markings (color tonality-wise) of a traditional Olympus design.

I've been nothing less than totally enamored with this camera. If you can, scarf one up before they disappear since Fuji will be concentrating on the more advanced models from now on. But this 16 MP instrument will most certainly put a smile on your Olympus face.  So if you didn't care for the X-Trans sensored models of theirs, this X-A1 is a pleasant exception to the line.

OK - I'm done - just keep in mind that I meant well with this posting!