Just purchased Olympus E-PL6 coming from Sony? Tips?

Well, you've covered just about every negative you can pick up from reading in these forums.  So the best advice I have is to stop reading and just use the camera with an open mind.  The only real limitations will be what you bring to the table, the cameras are all as capable as you need them to be.

Perhaps you can download the manual and get familiar with it prior to Thursday.  Olympus cameras are known for having lots of options to customize the features, which sometimes overwhelms new users.  Olympus HSS flash is called TTL-FP and you can get that with optional flashes such as FL600r.

No point to looking at other lenses until you decide whether or not you like the camera.  Especially since you already plan to move from older Olympus entry level to Sony FF in a matter of months.  If you like the camera, figure out what you need, rather than what you read that others like.

Figure out whether you want to be a gear expert or a photography expert.  They aren't the same thing.  Jumping from brand to brand and camera to camera is fun, but doesn't have anything to do with becoming a better photographer.

Pikme wrote:

Well, you've covered just about every negative you can pick up from reading in these forums. So the best advice I have is to stop reading and just use the camera with an open mind. The only real limitations will be what you bring to the table, the cameras are all as capable as you need them to be.

Perhaps you can download the manual and get familiar with it prior to Thursday. Olympus cameras are known for having lots of options to customize the features, which sometimes overwhelms new users. Olympus HSS flash is called TTL-FP and you can get that with optional flashes such as FL600r.

No point to looking at other lenses until you decide whether or not you like the camera. Especially since you already plan to move from older Olympus entry level to Sony FF in a matter of months. If you like the camera, figure out what you need, rather than what you read that others like.

Figure out whether you want to be a gear expert or a photography expert. They aren't the same thing. Jumping from brand to brand and camera to camera is fun, but doesn't have anything to do with becoming a better photographer.

Good points. I guess I'm getting excited about jumping into a new system that I may not even like. I was lusting over samples from the 40-150mm f2.8 this morning but then wondered if I'd be happier with the shallower DOF of a 70-200mm on full frame for a similar price (Tamron 70-200mm f2.8).

I wish to be both a gear expert and a photography expert. I am a relatively new photographer (2 years) but have been involved in tech all my life. Always striving to have the best smartphone, AV equipment, etc and appreciating/enjoying each new iteration. Many photographers may think it's futile since tech is rapidly changing and it's often a waste to try to stay ahead of the curve. However, I find a ton of satisfaction manipulating files in post, pixel peeping, pushing sensors, lenses, and AF systems to their limits. Perhaps micro 4/3 is not the ideal system for me but I am excited about it being so portable and affordable yet delivering respectable IQ. I will post my thoughts once I have the camera in my hands and again once I've used it for a few days. It will be interesting to see how it compares to other formats having extensively used APS-C (Canon T3, Canon 70D, Sony A6000/A6300), FF (Sony A7ii), and 1" (RX100IV). And I will of course always continue to work on my photography regardless of what equipment I have.

I have an E-PL6, along with an E-M5, E-M1, and GH3.  The E-PL6 has a pretty limited user interface, since it does not have typical control dials.

I do wonder why you bought it, if you weren't familiar with its IQ.  It has the same sensor as the E-M5 (which I like for long exposures and low light), but only 3-axis IBIS.

It doesn't have a viewfinder, but I usually use my VF-4 on it.  That is a great viewfinder, which I use on my E-M5 or E-M1 as well when I'm shooting low.

I like it with the 14-42 EZ lens, very compact.  Or any of the smaller primes (12, 17, 25).  Jacket pocketable as long as I don't have the VF-4 attached.  With larger lenses (and that's mostly what you have now), I find its user interface too limiting to warrant using it and will go with the E-M1 (or E-M5, which is not much bigger and a lot friendlier).

The camera is HSS compatible (FP mode).  It comes with a small flash that can also be used as an RC controller for other flashes; I've used it with the Olympus FL-50R in FP mode.  As for a small HSS flash, the FL-36R is also FP and wireless.  The FL-300R is a nice small flash, BUT not FP capable.

And, if you add the flash, then one of it's features doesn't work...the flip up selfie mode on the LCD (the flash gets in the way).

I would never recommend this camera to anyone that wasn't going to use it with the 14-42 EZ or small primes, because it doesn't have a viewfinder or typical control dials.  If you're going to use bigger lenses, then might as well get a bigger (and more flexible) camera.

john isaacs wrote:

I have an E-PL6, along with an E-M5, E-M1, and GH3. The E-PL6 has a pretty limited user interface, since it does not have typical control dials.

I do wonder why you bought it, if you weren't familiar with its IQ. It has the same sensor as the E-M5 (which I like for long exposures and low light), but only 3-axis IBIS.

It doesn't have a viewfinder, but I usually use my VF-4 on it. That is a great viewfinder, which I use on my E-M5 or E-M1 as well when I'm shooting low.

I like it with the 14-42 EZ lens, very compact. Or any of the smaller primes (12, 17, 25). Jacket pocketable as long as I don't have the VF-4 attached. With larger lenses (and that's mostly what you have now), I find its user interface too limiting to warrant using it and will go with the E-M1 (or E-M5, which is not much bigger and a lot friendlier).

The camera is HSS compatible (FP mode). It comes with a small flash that can also be used as an RC controller for other flashes; I've used it with the Olympus FL-50R in FP mode. As for a small HSS flash, the FL-36R is also FP and wireless. The FL-300R is a nice small flash, BUT not FP capable.

And, if you add the flash, then one of it's features doesn't work...the flip up selfie mode on the LCD (the flash gets in the way).

I would never recommend this camera to anyone that wasn't going to use it with the 14-42 EZ or small primes, because it doesn't have a viewfinder or typical control dials. If you're going to use bigger lenses, then might as well get a bigger (and more flexible) camera.

I bought it as an inexpensive but capable camera while I save up some funds and decide what I want (most likely an A7II or A7RII). But nothing is set in stone and I figure this is a good chance to try out the Olympus m4/3 system. It was a bit of an impulse buy as it was only in stock for a very short period (Olympus refurb) at $160. If I don't like it I will sell it and may temporarily go back to Sony (A6000?). My goal is a system that is inexpensive but capable with good lenses available. M4/3 seems to be the right choice but we will see this weekend. My main interest is in the very small Olympus 45mm f1.8 lens that I'm hoping will match my old Sony 50mm f1.8 OSS. I loved the RX100IV but do a lot of portraits and found the DOF control and focal length fell short. If I find I like the IQ/lenses but am unhappy with the body/controls I may get an EP5 for $80 more or an EM10 for $160 more if I find I need a viewfinder. I will try them out in a store beforehand if I can find somewhere that stocks them. The rumored EM1 Mk ii also sounds very intriguing and perhaps that could be another option if I find I love the system. Probably getting way ahead of myself but I'll report back Thursday and give my thoughts. Thanks for all the input

SonyArtisan wrote:

john isaacs wrote:

I have an E-PL6, along with an E-M5, E-M1, and GH3. The E-PL6 has a pretty limited user interface, since it does not have typical control dials.

I do wonder why you bought it, if you weren't familiar with its IQ. It has the same sensor as the E-M5 (which I like for long exposures and low light), but only 3-axis IBIS.

It doesn't have a viewfinder, but I usually use my VF-4 on it. That is a great viewfinder, which I use on my E-M5 or E-M1 as well when I'm shooting low.

I like it with the 14-42 EZ lens, very compact. Or any of the smaller primes (12, 17, 25). Jacket pocketable as long as I don't have the VF-4 attached. With larger lenses (and that's mostly what you have now), I find its user interface too limiting to warrant using it and will go with the E-M1 (or E-M5, which is not much bigger and a lot friendlier).

The camera is HSS compatible (FP mode). It comes with a small flash that can also be used as an RC controller for other flashes; I've used it with the Olympus FL-50R in FP mode. As for a small HSS flash, the FL-36R is also FP and wireless. The FL-300R is a nice small flash, BUT not FP capable.

And, if you add the flash, then one of it's features doesn't work...the flip up selfie mode on the LCD (the flash gets in the way).

I would never recommend this camera to anyone that wasn't going to use it with the 14-42 EZ or small primes, because it doesn't have a viewfinder or typical control dials. If you're going to use bigger lenses, then might as well get a bigger (and more flexible) camera.

I bought it as an inexpensive but capable camera while I save up some funds and decide what I want (most likely an A7II or A7RII). But nothing is set in stone and I figure this is a good chance to try out the Olympus m4/3 system. It was a bit of an impulse buy as it was only in stock for a very short period (Olympus refurb) at $160. If I don't like it I will sell it and may temporarily go back to Sony (A6000?). My goal is a system that is inexpensive but capable with good lenses available. M4/3 seems to be the right choice but we will see this weekend. My main interest is in the very small Olympus 45mm f1.8 lens that I'm hoping will match my old Sony 50mm f1.8 OSS. I loved the RX100IV but do a lot of portraits and found the DOF control and focal length fell short. If I find I like the IQ/lenses but am unhappy with the body/controls I may get an EP5 for $80 more or an EM10 for $160 more if I find I need a viewfinder. I will try them out in a store beforehand if I can find somewhere that stocks them. The rumored EM1 Mk ii also sounds very intriguing and perhaps that could be another option if I find I love the system. Probably getting way ahead of myself but I'll report back Thursday and give my thoughts. Thanks for all the input

It would be even less expensive had you kept your A6000 or A6300.

Save your money and don't buy any more lenses for the Olympus, because you will only have less to spend on the A7RII. My guess is that the Olympus won't be with you for more than a couple of months, so at least wait to see if that is so before spending [wasting?] more money.

Sounds harsh? It's not meant to be. It's meant to be realistic and based on what you have written.

Aberaeron wrote:

SonyArtisan wrote:

john isaacs wrote:

I have an E-PL6, along with an E-M5, E-M1, and GH3. The E-PL6 has a pretty limited user interface, since it does not have typical control dials.

I do wonder why you bought it, if you weren't familiar with its IQ. It has the same sensor as the E-M5 (which I like for long exposures and low light), but only 3-axis IBIS.

It doesn't have a viewfinder, but I usually use my VF-4 on it. That is a great viewfinder, which I use on my E-M5 or E-M1 as well when I'm shooting low.

I like it with the 14-42 EZ lens, very compact. Or any of the smaller primes (12, 17, 25). Jacket pocketable as long as I don't have the VF-4 attached. With larger lenses (and that's mostly what you have now), I find its user interface too limiting to warrant using it and will go with the E-M1 (or E-M5, which is not much bigger and a lot friendlier).

The camera is HSS compatible (FP mode). It comes with a small flash that can also be used as an RC controller for other flashes; I've used it with the Olympus FL-50R in FP mode. As for a small HSS flash, the FL-36R is also FP and wireless. The FL-300R is a nice small flash, BUT not FP capable.

And, if you add the flash, then one of it's features doesn't work...the flip up selfie mode on the LCD (the flash gets in the way).

I would never recommend this camera to anyone that wasn't going to use it with the 14-42 EZ or small primes, because it doesn't have a viewfinder or typical control dials. If you're going to use bigger lenses, then might as well get a bigger (and more flexible) camera.

I bought it as an inexpensive but capable camera while I save up some funds and decide what I want (most likely an A7II or A7RII). But nothing is set in stone and I figure this is a good chance to try out the Olympus m4/3 system. It was a bit of an impulse buy as it was only in stock for a very short period (Olympus refurb) at $160. If I don't like it I will sell it and may temporarily go back to Sony (A6000?). My goal is a system that is inexpensive but capable with good lenses available. M4/3 seems to be the right choice but we will see this weekend. My main interest is in the very small Olympus 45mm f1.8 lens that I'm hoping will match my old Sony 50mm f1.8 OSS. I loved the RX100IV but do a lot of portraits and found the DOF control and focal length fell short. If I find I like the IQ/lenses but am unhappy with the body/controls I may get an EP5 for $80 more or an EM10 for $160 more if I find I need a viewfinder. I will try them out in a store beforehand if I can find somewhere that stocks them. The rumored EM1 Mk ii also sounds very intriguing and perhaps that could be another option if I find I love the system. Probably getting way ahead of myself but I'll report back Thursday and give my thoughts. Thanks for all the input

It would be even less expensive had you kept your A6000 or A6300.

Save your money and don't buy any more lenses for the Olympus, because you will only have less to spend on the A7RII. My guess is that the Olympus won't be with you for more than a couple of months, so at least wait to see if that is so before spending [wasting?] more money.

Sounds harsh? It's not meant to be. It's meant to be realistic and based on what you have written.

Perhaps, but I have yet to lose money on any gear I've sold (except about $70 on the 50mm f1.8) and a small amount on the A6000 body. I think I'd essentially break even if I sold my Olympus equipment which I'm not planning on if the size, weight, and quality lives up to expectations. I hope it can replace my RX100IV as a go-anywhere camera that excels in portraits (with the 45mm) and offers an option for a longer zoom (40-150mm). The system also appears to offer some "pro" ability with lenses like the 40-150mm f2.8 that I've been researching extensively. It looks virtually flawless (besides the size and weight factor). There's nothing to say Olympus couldn't be my main camera system once they release a body that offers similar AF performance to the A7RII/A6300. (EM1 mk ii?) and maybe a better sensor. I'm all for saving size and weight if performance is comparable. I certainly won't spend any more money on the system until I know if I like it. I think for under $500 with little chance of losing money it is a good opportunity to test two decent zooms, a decent body, and one excellent compact prime. There appears to be a lot of love for Olympus on these forums so I want to see what the hype is about. I'm keeping all options open

IMO the (refurbished) EPL7 is a much better buy than the cheaper EPL6, better build and handling aside, you get the 3-axis IBIS and importantly EFCS (0-sec delay) to reduce/eliminate shutter-shock.

BostonC wrote:

IMO the (refurbished) EPL7 is a much better buy than the cheaper EPL6, better build and handling aside, you get the 3-axis IBIS and importantly EFCS (0-sec delay) to reduce/eliminate shutter-shock.

Perhaps, but it is over $100 more and still lacks a viewfinder. I've been having such a hard time deciding on the best value Olympus camera. I've been looking at the EM10, EPL7, and EP5, all about $100-150 more than the EPL6. The problem is there aren't any camera stores nearby that stock these units. The closest means an expensive 2+ hour trip to the city. If I were to go for the EPL7 it is only $350 new from B&H (no tax) where it is $272 reconditioned with tax from Olympus. I went with the EPL6 because it was by far the cheapest and should offer the same IQ as the others which will give me a chance to test Olympus lenses and sensor quality. I figure if I love the quality, size, and weight, I can certainly find a better body that suits my handling/feature needs, perhaps even a flagship model. If not, I can sell everything at a very slight loss.

third son wrote:

SonyArtisan wrote:

BostonC wrote:

IMO the (refurbished) EPL7 is a much better buy than the cheaper EPL6, better build and handling aside, you get the 3-axis IBIS and importantly EFCS (0-sec delay) to reduce/eliminate shutter-shock.

Perhaps, but it is over $100 more and still lacks a viewfinder. I've been having such a hard time deciding on the best value Olympus camera. I've been looking at the EM10, EPL7, and EP5, all about $100-150 more than the EPL6. The problem is there aren't any camera stores nearby that stock these units. The closest means an expensive 2+ hour trip to the city. If I were to go for the EPL7 it is only $350 new from B&H (no tax) where it is $272 reconditioned with tax from Olympus. I went with the EPL6 because it was by far the cheapest and should offer the same IQ as the others which will give me a chance to test Olympus lenses and sensor quality. I figure if I love the quality, size, and weight, I can certainly find a better body that suits my handling/feature needs, perhaps even a flagship model. If not, I can sell everything at a very slight loss.

I disliked the shutter on the EPL6 and only had it for a short time. It does take some nice photos though. I think the EM10 is still the best MFT camera out there with a viewfinder. 3 axis IBIS is more than enough for some stellar shots.

Thanks for the input. What about compared to the EM10 mk ii and EM5 mk ii? I am assuming you meant best for the price. The two mentioned above are surely better, no?

SonyArtisan wrote:

Aberaeron wrote:

SonyArtisan wrote:

john isaacs wrote:

I have an E-PL6, along with an E-M5, E-M1, and GH3. The E-PL6 has a pretty limited user interface, since it does not have typical control dials.

I do wonder why you bought it, if you weren't familiar with its IQ. It has the same sensor as the E-M5 (which I like for long exposures and low light), but only 3-axis IBIS.

It doesn't have a viewfinder, but I usually use my VF-4 on it. That is a great viewfinder, which I use on my E-M5 or E-M1 as well when I'm shooting low.

I like it with the 14-42 EZ lens, very compact. Or any of the smaller primes (12, 17, 25). Jacket pocketable as long as I don't have the VF-4 attached. With larger lenses (and that's mostly what you have now), I find its user interface too limiting to warrant using it and will go with the E-M1 (or E-M5, which is not much bigger and a lot friendlier).

The camera is HSS compatible (FP mode). It comes with a small flash that can also be used as an RC controller for other flashes; I've used it with the Olympus FL-50R in FP mode. As for a small HSS flash, the FL-36R is also FP and wireless. The FL-300R is a nice small flash, BUT not FP capable.

And, if you add the flash, then one of it's features doesn't work...the flip up selfie mode on the LCD (the flash gets in the way).

I would never recommend this camera to anyone that wasn't going to use it with the 14-42 EZ or small primes, because it doesn't have a viewfinder or typical control dials. If you're going to use bigger lenses, then might as well get a bigger (and more flexible) camera.

I bought it as an inexpensive but capable camera while I save up some funds and decide what I want (most likely an A7II or A7RII). But nothing is set in stone and I figure this is a good chance to try out the Olympus m4/3 system. It was a bit of an impulse buy as it was only in stock for a very short period (Olympus refurb) at $160. If I don't like it I will sell it and may temporarily go back to Sony (A6000?). My goal is a system that is inexpensive but capable with good lenses available. M4/3 seems to be the right choice but we will see this weekend. My main interest is in the very small Olympus 45mm f1.8 lens that I'm hoping will match my old Sony 50mm f1.8 OSS. I loved the RX100IV but do a lot of portraits and found the DOF control and focal length fell short. If I find I like the IQ/lenses but am unhappy with the body/controls I may get an EP5 for $80 more or an EM10 for $160 more if I find I need a viewfinder. I will try them out in a store beforehand if I can find somewhere that stocks them. The rumored EM1 Mk ii also sounds very intriguing and perhaps that could be another option if I find I love the system. Probably getting way ahead of myself but I'll report back Thursday and give my thoughts. Thanks for all the input

It would be even less expensive had you kept your A6000 or A6300.

Save your money and don't buy any more lenses for the Olympus, because you will only have less to spend on the A7RII. My guess is that the Olympus won't be with you for more than a couple of months, so at least wait to see if that is so before spending [wasting?] more money.

Sounds harsh? It's not meant to be. It's meant to be realistic and based on what you have written.

Perhaps, but I have yet to lose money on any gear I've sold (except about $70 on the 50mm f1.8) and a small amount on the A6000 body. I think I'd essentially break even if I sold my Olympus equipment which I'm not planning on if the size, weight, and quality lives up to expectations. I hope it can replace my RX100IV as a go-anywhere camera that excels in portraits (with the 45mm) and offers an option for a longer zoom (40-150mm). The system also appears to offer some "pro" ability with lenses like the 40-150mm f2.8 that I've been researching extensively. It looks virtually flawless (besides the size and weight factor). There's nothing to say Olympus couldn't be my main camera system once they release a body that offers similar AF performance to the A7RII/A6300. (EM1 mk ii?) and maybe a better sensor. I'm all for saving size and weight if performance is comparable. I certainly won't spend any more money on the system until I know if I like it. I think for under $500 with little chance of losing money it is a good opportunity to test two decent zooms, a decent body, and one excellent compact prime. There appears to be a lot of love for Olympus on these forums so I want to see what the hype is about. I'm keeping all options open

Not everyone has your knack of not losing money when changing kit. It has to be admired. To sell right, the secret is to buy at the right money in the first place.

third son wrote:

SonyArtisan wrote:

third son wrote:

SonyArtisan wrote:

BostonC wrote:

IMO the (refurbished) EPL7 is a much better buy than the cheaper EPL6, better build and handling aside, you get the 3-axis IBIS and importantly EFCS (0-sec delay) to reduce/eliminate shutter-shock.

Perhaps, but it is over $100 more and still lacks a viewfinder. I've been having such a hard time deciding on the best value Olympus camera. I've been looking at the EM10, EPL7, and EP5, all about $100-150 more than the EPL6. The problem is there aren't any camera stores nearby that stock these units. The closest means an expensive 2+ hour trip to the city. If I were to go for the EPL7 it is only $350 new from B&H (no tax) where it is $272 reconditioned with tax from Olympus. I went with the EPL6 because it was by far the cheapest and should offer the same IQ as the others which will give me a chance to test Olympus lenses and sensor quality. I figure if I love the quality, size, and weight, I can certainly find a better body that suits my handling/feature needs, perhaps even a flagship model. If not, I can sell everything at a very slight loss.

I disliked the shutter on the EPL6 and only had it for a short time. It does take some nice photos though. I think the EM10 is still the best MFT camera out there with a viewfinder. 3 axis IBIS is more than enough for some stellar shots.

Thanks for the input. What about compared to the EM10 mk ii and EM5 mk ii? I am assuming you meant best for the price. The two mentioned above are surely better, no?

Yes, sorry, I meant to say the EM10 is the best VALUE with a viewfinder (for me anyway) I can say the EM10 (I) is a better camera than the epl6 even though the image quality is on par. I like cameras with viewfinders and dual controls even though I have a GM1 (gonna sell). I sold my EM10 to finance a new EM5II and find it is a small notch higher for what I need. 5 axis IBIS, weather sealed, silent shutter, more function buttons. I love this camera and have no regrets selling my EM10 (well maybe a bit regretful)

The EM10 is very enticing at $280 reconditioned as is the EM5II for ~$650. But I definitely need to get a feel for the IQ/lenses since that's a major priority for me. Then I can seriously think about going for something more expensive if necessary. If I love the output then I will consider the above cameras or even the rumored EM1 mk ii for better handling/functionality. I should be able to chime in with many thoughts by tomorrow or Friday. Thanks

ahaslett wrote:

SonyArtisan wrote:

third son wrote:

SonyArtisan wrote:

third son wrote:

SonyArtisan wrote:

BostonC wrote:

IMO the (refurbished) EPL7 is a much better buy than the cheaper EPL6, better build and handling aside, you get the 3-axis IBIS and importantly EFCS (0-sec delay) to reduce/eliminate shutter-shock.

Perhaps, but it is over $100 more and still lacks a viewfinder. I've been having such a hard time deciding on the best value Olympus camera. I've been looking at the EM10, EPL7, and EP5, all about $100-150 more than the EPL6. The problem is there aren't any camera stores nearby that stock these units. The closest means an expensive 2+ hour trip to the city. If I were to go for the EPL7 it is only $350 new from B&H (no tax) where it is $272 reconditioned with tax from Olympus. I went with the EPL6 because it was by far the cheapest and should offer the same IQ as the others which will give me a chance to test Olympus lenses and sensor quality. I figure if I love the quality, size, and weight, I can certainly find a better body that suits my handling/feature needs, perhaps even a flagship model. If not, I can sell everything at a very slight loss.

I disliked the shutter on the EPL6 and only had it for a short time. It does take some nice photos though. I think the EM10 is still the best MFT camera out there with a viewfinder. 3 axis IBIS is more than enough for some stellar shots.

Thanks for the input. What about compared to the EM10 mk ii and EM5 mk ii? I am assuming you meant best for the price. The two mentioned above are surely better, no?

Yes, sorry, I meant to say the EM10 is the best VALUE with a viewfinder (for me anyway) I can say the EM10 (I) is a better camera than the epl6 even though the image quality is on par. I like cameras with viewfinders and dual controls even though I have a GM1 (gonna sell). I sold my EM10 to finance a new EM5II and find it is a small notch higher for what I need. 5 axis IBIS, weather sealed, silent shutter, more function buttons. I love this camera and have no regrets selling my EM10 (well maybe a bit regretful)

The EM10 is very enticing at $280 reconditioned as is the EM5II for ~$650. But I definitely need to get a feel for the IQ/lenses since that's a major priority for me. Then I can seriously think about going for something more expensive if necessary. If I love the output then I will consider the above cameras or even the rumored EM1 mk ii for better handling/functionality. I should be able to chime in with many thoughts by tomorrow or Friday. Thanks

If you are going to get an A7R2, then Samyang 7.5mm fisheye, Panny 20mm 1.7 and Panny 12-32 would be my pick, followed by the Olympus 40-150 Pro.

Andrew

Those are the exact lenses I'm most interested in (minus the Panny 12-32 that I haven't really looked into). I tend to prefer one UWA prime (previously had the APS-C Canon 10-18mm that I always used at 10mm and the Rokinon 12mm f2), one standard prime (my favorite lens ever was the APS-C Sony Zeiss 24mm f1.8), one portrait lens (the Sony 50mm f1.8 and 55mm f1.8 were excellent), and one long-ish zoom, in my case an adapted Canon 55-250mm STM. The 40-150mm f2.8 Pro looks absolutely incredible and the samples/reviews I've seen have me lusting over it.

I think my ideal kit would be the Samyang 7.5mm (or 7-14mm), Panasonic 20mm f1.7, Olympus 45mm f1.8 (or Panasonic 42.5mm f1.2), and Olympus 40-150mm f2.8 pro. Total cost would be around $1700 + up to $1200 more for a better body. A similar Sony setup would be at least $500+ more (going off used prices). It would be interesting to see several systems compared. Something like the A6300 vs. EM5 mk ii with their best native lenses.

Initial impressions are good. Build quality seems great, love the size and feel of the lenses. I used the camera for about an hour in shade and direct sunlight. Here are my thoughts so far:

Pros:

• Touchscreen is a great addition (never used one on a camera other than the 70D). Touch to focus is useful
• Shutter seems snappy. I was a bit worried after hearing lots of complaints but I've also only used it at high shutter speeds so far
• Lenses are superb for the money, size and weight. I'm seriously blown away pixel peeping in LR considering this is a 16mp M43 sensor with an AA filter. Side-by-side with the Sony Zeiss 55mm mounted on an A7II the Olympus 45mm holds its own very well and even appears sharper to me wide open. The 14-42mm is very respectable, better at 14-25mm but usable at 42mm as well. The 40-150mm seems almost as good or better than my Canon 55-250mm STM that I have been using on the A6000 and A6300. This is easily the thing I'm most excited about and the reason I jumped into this system. I already feel like I want a better body/sensor so I can take further advantage of this glass. The new Panasonic GX85 is intriguing with its 16mp sensor with no AA filter.
• Colors looked natural out of camera and I actually preferred the rendering of greens and skin tones over the Sony which looked too yellow.

Cons:

• The interface is terrible. That's saying a lot coming from Sony. Perhaps I just need more time with it. Hard to complain at this price though and it's also a very old model
• The handling of the camera is awful as expected due to the lack of buttons/dials and lack of a grip (haven't tried the included grip)
• The LCD resolution is pretty low but usable. I don't think I'll be buying another camera without a viewfinder but can't fault the camera as I knew that going in. Very hard to view the LCD on a sunny day like today
• The fully tilting screen for selfies is not as useful as I thought it would be for random snaps with the girlfriend. It doesn't tilt enough to be at an effective viewing angle and is partially blocked off buy the hotshoe. It appears they completely redesigned this on the EPL7
• The DOF control compared to FF and APS-C is poor as expected. This could be a deal breaker for me in some instances (portraits) because I'm one of those photographers that likes abusing shallow DOF and subject isolation. Luckily the 45mm f1.8 offers pretty great bokeh with the subject close enough (portraits). I also may consider the Panasonic 42.5mm f1.2 down the road if M43 becomes my main kit.
• Dynamic range is lacking when compared side-by-side to the A7II, especially when recovering shadows. However, it is still quite good for most situations.
• Haven't tested low light performance but I think I have an idea of what it would be like. I'm hoping a newer Olympus or Panasonic body with 4-5 stop IBIS would compensate for this in situations without moving subjects.

Based on my impression today I think I will be sticking with the Micro 4/3 system in some regard for the foreseeable future. These lenses are just too good to sell. On the other hand, the body is not quite as usable as I had hoped. The lack of an EVF makes it difficult to use in direct sunlight (more-so than expected) among other issues like the lack of controls, etc. that others warned me about in this thread. The dynamic range and 4:3 aspect ratio may be undesirable for landscapes but only time will tell. Overall, I do not regret the purchase and am most impressed by the lenses. I'm even considering the tiny Panasonic GM5 which is now at a great price. I believe this is the smallest capable m43 camera with an EVF on the market. I ran across it after seeing that Chris Niccolls (host of the camera store TV in Canada) uses one as his main travel camera. But I think ideally I want something with more functionality (IBIS, more controls, etc) while still maintaining a small size. Right now I'm most interested in the GX85, EM5ii, and EM1. I will likely pick something up in the $500-800 range soon and then see what the EM1 replacement looks like in a few months.

Thank you for all the input

SonyArtisan wrote:

Initial impressions are good. Build quality seems great, love the size and feel of the lenses. I used the camera for about an hour in shade and direct sunlight. Here are my thoughts so far:

Pros:

• Touchscreen is a great addition (never used one on a camera other than the 70D). Touch to focus is useful

Touchscreen on the Panasonics is even better BTW.  Truly great interface for it on them.

• Shutter seems snappy. I was a bit worried after hearing lots of complaints but I've also only used it at high shutter speeds so far

Shutter speed in AF-S is great.  If you use AF-C you will notice that it can't do what the A6000 does.  However, in low light the AF-S will be better on the M43 than any of the Sonys (and the Panasonic AF-S is pretty amazing in low light, better than the Oly, too)

• Lenses are superb for the money, size and weight. I'm seriously blown away pixel peeping in LR considering this is a 16mp M43 sensor with an AA filter. Side-by-side with the Sony Zeiss 55mm mounted on an A7II the Olympus 45mm holds its own very well and even appears sharper to me wide open. The 14-42mm is very respectable, better at 14-25mm but usable at 42mm as well. The 40-150mm seems almost as good or better than my Canon 55-250mm STM that I have been using on the A6000 and A6300. This is easily the thing I'm most excited about and the reason I jumped into this system. I already feel like I want a better body/sensor so I can take further advantage of this glass. The new Panasonic GX85 is intriguing with its 16mp sensor with no AA filter.

The M43 glass is one of the main reasons that I am torn between coming back to it totally from my foray in the the A7 ecosystem.  That 40-150mm is actually pretty legendary around here; it's a great lens, price not withstanding. 
When I tried an A6000, briefly, I was so disappointed in the glass after coming from M43 at the time.  I gave up on it after a few tries.

• Colors looked natural out of camera and I actually preferred the rendering of greens and skin tones over the Sony which looked too yellow.

Sony greens are one of the things that bug me the most about the A7.  Oly colors are legendary, BTW.  If you get a Panasonic, they tend towards a cooler rendering overall than the Olys, just be aware of that.  I prefer the Panasonic colors, personally, but lots of people absolutely love the Oly processing engine.

Cons:

• The interface is terrible. That's saying a lot coming from Sony. Perhaps I just need more time with it. Hard to complain at this price though and it's also a very old model

Oly UI is awful. One tip, enable the Super Control Panel, and also set up the FN buttons for direct access to your most used functions.
Use Guy Parsons' Oly guide to get the most out of setting up the camera; it's at:

http://homepages.ihug.com.au/~parsog/olyepl1/50-epl5-comments.html

• The handling of the camera is awful as expected due to the lack of buttons/dials and lack of a grip (haven't tried the included grip)

I used a half case on my EPM2, worked great for improving the handling.

• The LCD resolution is pretty low but usable. I don't think I'll be buying another camera without a viewfinder but can't fault the camera as I knew that going in. Very hard to view the LCD on a sunny day like today

You should be able to buy an add-on EVF; if you can find the VF-4 on sale, get it, you will love it.  The VF-2 is ok, but doesn't have a lock, and the VF-3 is dreadful, don't get it.

• The fully tilting screen for selfies is not as useful as I thought it would be for random snaps with the girlfriend. It doesn't tilt enough to be at an effective viewing angle and is partially blocked off buy the hotshoe. It appears they completely redesigned this on the EPL7
• The DOF control compared to FF and APS-C is poor as expected. This could be a deal breaker for me in some instances (portraits) because I'm one of those photographers that likes abusing shallow DOF and subject isolation. Luckily the 45mm f1.8 offers pretty great bokeh with the subject close enough (portraits). I also may consider the Panasonic 42.5mm f1.2 down the road if M43 becomes my main kit.

It is definitely harder to get good DOF effects on M43.  However, you may want to experiment with different focal lengths and distances to approximate what you are used to, but arriving at it in a different way.

• Dynamic range is lacking when compared side-by-side to the A7II, especially when recovering shadows. However, it is still quite good for most situations.

I have the A7 and also M43 (and had used M43 as my only gear for about 4 years before getting the FF).  The FF DR is a joy to work with, due to the considerable info in the files.  However, you just have to accommodate that if you know you are in a high DR situation by doing things like exposure bracketing and merging in PP.  More work, yeah, but not impossible.

• Haven't tested low light performance but I think I have an idea of what it would be like. I'm hoping a newer Olympus or Panasonic body with 4-5 stop IBIS would compensate for this in situations without moving subjects.

Low light performance can be surprising...sometimes good, sometimes very not good. It's not in the same league as the A7II, but who expects it to be?

Based on my impression today I think I will be sticking with the Micro 4/3 system in some regard for the foreseeable future. These lenses are just too good to sell. On the other hand, the body is not quite as usable as I had hoped. The lack of an EVF makes it difficult to use in direct sunlight (more-so than expected) among other issues like the lack of controls, etc. that others warned me about in this thread. The dynamic range and 4:3 aspect ratio may be undesirable for landscapes but only time will tell.

I actually love the 4:3 aspect ratio, even for landscapes.  However that's a personal choice, and I understand if you have difficulty adjusting to it, as I have had to the 3:2 ratio in FF.

Overall, I do not regret the purchase and am most impressed by the lenses. I'm even considering the tiny Panasonic GM5 which is now at a great price. I believe this is the smallest capable m43 camera with an EVF on the market. I ran across it after seeing that Chris Niccolls (host of the camera store TV in Canada) uses one as his main travel camera. But I think ideally I want something with more functionality (IBIS, more controls, etc) while still maintaining a small size.

If you want IBIS, the GM5 can't help you, but for everything else, it is just a fabulous camera.  AND it has an EVF (small, but functional).  I love mine, use it far more than the A7 at this point.

Right now I'm most interested in the GX85, EM5ii, and EM1. I will likely pick something up in the $500-800 range soon and then see what the EM1 replacement looks like in a few months.

If you want IBIS, and can live with the GX85's EVF, then that is the one to get in that price range.  (Much better UI than the Oly if you are coming from Sony's UI, especially).  If you can live without the IBIS, just get the GM5, it is a pretty amazing camera, and the 12-32mm kit lens it comes with is really terrific (much better than the Oly kit 14-42mm).

One other thing:  The drawback to M43 is the sensor technology, especially if you are coming from the A7 series.  You can't get around that, yet. 
Right now, there are only two M43 cameras that do not use a version of the 16 MP sensor that is in from the same generation as that in the EPL6 (IIRC, I think that one may be made by Sony, and the other current 16 MP ones are by Panasonic, but effectively there is no difference in performance between them).  The Pen-F and the Panasonic GX8 (not the GX85) are the ones that use the 20MP Sony sensor, and it has some advantages and disadvantages to the 16MP, so it's not a slam dunk upgrade at this point in time.

I think the M43 format is due for a major sensor tech update at some point, but who knows when that will occur. Until then, you get pretty similar output with any of the 16MP versions of the format.

Anyway, enjoy your M43.  You will find you will take it with you a LOT.....

-J