Best backup for EM1 = EP5

I am currently on travel using the EP5 as my second camera backing up an EM1. It has been the best solution I have tried.

Here is a short list of advantages with comparisons to other solutions I have tried.

vs other brands

Same battery

Menus and major control points nearly identical

Access to 0 sec anti-shock

vs EPL5 or EPM2

Better and larger LCD

5 axis IBIS

Higher quality feel and shutter sound

vs EM5 v1

Slimmer form factor with no "prism" hump

I have really enjoyed the EP5. When I want to go light, I can carry it with the 12-32 or 17 1.8. The additional weight vs the smaller Pens is not a problem. It slips easily into a small shoulder bag, the smooth shape making more difference than expected. At times when photography is a focus of the activity, it is not a burden to carry both with the EM1 on a sling with the 12-35 or 35-100 and the EP5 in a bag with 9-18 or fisheye. I switch back and forth seamlessly without the stumbles I often encountered with the EPL5, for example, when I would rotate the mode dial intending to change aperture.

EP5s are readily available on the used market at an attractive price.

Lee

LeeS wrote:

I am currently on travel using the EP5 as my second camera backing up an EM1. It has been the best solution I have tried.

Here is a short list of advantages with comparisons to other solutions I have tried.

vs other brands

Same battery

Menus and major control points nearly identical

Access to 0 sec anti-shock

vs EPL5 or EPM2

Better and larger LCD

5 axis IBIS

Higher quality feel and shutter sound

vs EM5 v1

Slimmer form factor with no "prism" hump

I have really enjoyed the EP5. When I want to go light, I can carry it with the 12-32 or 17 1.8. The additional weight vs the smaller Pens is not a problem. It slips easily into a small shoulder bag, the smooth shape making more difference than expected. At times when photography is a focus of the activity, it is not a burden to carry both with the EM1 on a sling with the 12-35 or 35-100 and the EP5 in a bag with 9-18 or fisheye. I switch back and forth seamlessly without the stumbles I often encountered with the EPL5, for example, when I would rotate the mode dial intending to change aperture.

EP5s are readily available on the used market at an attractive price.

Lee

Thanks for sharing.
I am actually trying to decide which to get. I have set my mind to EPL-7.
But now that you have listed very strong points. seems like EP5 seem to be a good choice.
Have you considered EPL-7.
The reason I want to have a backup camera is. To have the 17mm on the backup.
and the 45 or 75 on the E-M1

LeeS wrote:

I am currently on travel using the EP5 as my second camera backing up an EM1. It has been the best solution I have tried.

Here is a short list of advantages with comparisons to other solutions I have tried.

vs other brands

Same battery

Menus and major control points nearly identical

Access to 0 sec anti-shock

vs EPL5 or EPM2

Better and larger LCD

5 axis IBIS

Higher quality feel and shutter sound

vs EM5 v1

Slimmer form factor with no "prism" hump

I have really enjoyed the EP5. When I want to go light, I can carry it with the 12-32 or 17 1.8. The additional weight vs the smaller Pens is not a problem. It slips easily into a small shoulder bag, the smooth shape making more difference than expected. At times when photography is a focus of the activity, it is not a burden to carry both with the EM1 on a sling with the 12-35 or 35-100 and the EP5 in a bag with 9-18 or fisheye. I switch back and forth seamlessly without the stumbles I often encountered with the EPL5, for example, when I would rotate the mode dial intending to change aperture.

EP5s are readily available on the used market at an attractive price.

Lee

I totally agree that the best back-up camera is another exactly the same.

Now for a second camera for a different use then it would be a camera that is better for this use.
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Hi,

I have an em1 and have used both GM1 and E-PM2 as backup bodies.  Have been disappointed.

In the heat of the moment, the different menu systems make then too hard to use.

Also the battery thing is big... having the same batteries mean only the one charger etc.  Much lighter for travel.

The EPM2 lacks the wifi and the tilt screen - which i need for low ground shots and remote triggering...

Am starting to agree with the OP here - EP5 seems to be the only way to go. Less confusion when it counts.

Cheers
Chumby

LeeS wrote:

vs EM5 v1

Slimmer form factor with no "prism" hump

I prefer the E-M5 because of the EVF - also same battery and not heavier than tie E-P5

+ you can add the grip for the E-M5 as well if you want to use larger lenses.

Just my opinion - the E-P5 is also a great cam for sure

Having moved from the E-M5 to the E-M1 it is my choice.  I was using the E-PM2 as the backup to the E-M5.  Passed it on to the wife with 14-150.  She is happy when not using phone.

I used to use as a backup to my e-m1 few cameras like e-m5, e-m10, e-pl5.. ended up with another e-m1, as exactly same button layout and all habits from first camera pay out when you switch to another one. plus, personally I think e-m1 sits in hand the most comfortable, no matter the situation.