Olympus XZ-1 Cometh....

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Woohooo!!!! Finally, my dream camera has arrived.

Last Sunday I was told by one of Olympus sales rep that the XZ-1 was already in the office; albeit being the pre-production units. I was elated to say the least. Then, Olympus announced it yesterday, and I quickly asked if there's a test unit available. Sadly, all units are now in the nationwide roadshow; and I have to wait if there's a unit available. So, my comments for the XZ-1 will be highly hypothetical combined with real experience of using the LX-3 and S90 compacts.

If you have been following my blog for the past year, I have been expressing my wowness to the Canon S90. And, to snub the Olympus PEN series suggested my angst towards the lack of real compactness; which is to have a camera that is really pocketable with a standard bright zoom lens.

Thus, I got the S90 instead of any of the PENs and loved the camera so much. At the same time, using a Canon seemed realize my inner conflict to keep this blog true to the Zuiko name. In effect, I don't post many of the S90 photos here. A rather sad thing really...

Alas, come yesterday, I am rejoicing. No more the hesitant blogger. The compact Zuiko (named as iZuiko) has finally come. Thru-the-eye-of-Zuiko will be 100% pure again.

Well, other than just praising the camera with glowy fanboyish praise, what really makes this compact tick?

To me, it boils down to the lens. Simply, it's a Zuiko. To know one is to use one.

The legendary Tatsuno quality should be inherent in this camera, I believe it carries the highest quality coating and most sublime polishing technique; to be true with the E-system Zuikos. To be fair, the S90 optics is no slouch; but, comparing the speed and length of the iZuiko, the S90 seemed to be handicapped significantly. (I have to admit that my fanboyism towards Zuikos are really apparent here). But, if you remember a few blogs back where I actually dissed the PENs and mZuikos and opted for the S90 was a real surprise even for myself.

The camera is gorgeous looking. Simply stunning. The lines exhibit the PEN influence, and the placement of the photography-critical buttons is made simple.

There are so many things to like about the XZ-1. Coming from the S90, I welcome the creative use of the lens ring as a dial to complement the rear dial. This what really made me love the S90, the handling is so tactile to the DSLR shooter.

The iZuiko Digital 6-24mm F1.8-2.5 lens

This lens is bright. With the equivalent focal length of 14-56mm in the 4/3 format, this compact has a crop factor of 2.3x. The large aperture starts at f1.8 and stays up to f2.2 at nearly 3/4 of the focal length is very impressive. Compared to the S90 lens which stepped down so fast to f2.5 at it's first 1/3 focal length, this Zuiko really shakes the boat.

Why is it so important to me? Well, most indoor shooting requires sub f2.8 aperture to hold at least ISO400 with a respectable shutter speed to maintain image sharpness. The XZ-1 excels at this for the whole focal range.

Although it is a small compact, if we think about Depth-of-Field, by using a simple conversion factor, the XZ-1 should have a similar performance as the m.Zuiko 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 on the PENs. Looking at the f1.8-2.5 and multiply with 2.3x, this lens has a DoF range of f4.1-5.8. Not bad actually, after considering its size.

High Sensitivity 1/1.63" CCD Sensor

To couple the bright lens, the XZ-1 has a large, highly sensitive 10MP CCD sensor. Why CCD? Well, I won't know for sure, since the 4/3 and m4/3 uses nMOS sensors. But, what I know is that it is huge for a compact. This bids well for low-light shooting. With the Canon S90, I have little trouble shooting at ISO800, and I believe high ISO performance will be at least similar, if not better!!

Along with the E-5, the XZ-1 shares the same digital image processor the latest TruePicV. All I have is praise for this processor. As an E-5 shooter, this little piece of sand has really milked every pixel sharpness out of the Zuiko lenses. And I can only say that XZ-1 is one lucky camera to have it with the ultra fast i.Zuiko zoom.

And, it also has 6 ART FILTERS, with the latest addition DRAMATIC TONES that is released in the E-5. Samples of this effect can be seen in my previous blog entries.

Well, I think I have said enough... Most of my observations are theoretical and comparative. In the end, it all boils down to usability. A good camera makes you want to use it. And the S90 has served me well till now. Moving on, it will be put on sale pretty soon. I know the XZ-1 is the next step forward. It's time to be a true Zuikoholic again!!!

Full Specifications: CLICK HERE

p/s: Actually, I just pre-ordered one. With the price at RM1,699, it's quite steep. But I can guarantee that it is worth it!!

Zuiko and a New Compact System

It seems Olympus is coming out with another system.

From the dpreview.com site, there's a mockup camera that has the granular similarity with the Canon S90. I just can't believe this!!!!



If this is to be true, I am hard pressed to thinking of upgrading my S90 with the S95 in the near future.

Hmmmm... I hope more revelations appear in Photokina.


UPDATE!
At Photokina, dpreview.com has reported a bit about this compact.

Click HERE to look at the sheer size of the lens, with respect to the body.

From the extended lens, I can deduce that the lens is larger than the S90. Two things are possible:
1. This is a large aperture lens throughout its range, maybe an F2.0-2.8, with a sensor size of 2/3".
2. This is a large sensor compact, maybe 4/3, with lens aperture F3.5-5.6.

Another hint from dpreview.com, it may be a return of the legendary C-5050 specification; thus, I can conclude that it may be a large aperture lens with 2/3" sensor.

Well, only time will tell and I really expect it to be worth the wait!!

The Olympus E-5 is here

At long last, the successor for the ageing flagship has arrived.



From the initial specs, it is easy to assume that the E-5 is actually an iteration from the best of 3 Olympus cameras: the E-5, E-30 and E-P2. Let's checkout the specs:

From E-3 comes the body construction, weatherproofing and 100% viewfinder.

From E-30 comes the 3" screen, AF calibration and Live View AF.

From E-P2 comes the 720p HD video, SD card and the latest Art Filters.

Well, there are other features that are inherent in E-5 predecessors, but I only listed the obvious ones to my mind.



Topping all the current features are some things that may shed high interest.

First is the newly designed image processor, aptly named TruePic V+. I hope this processor provides better sharpness, color and noise control. The only way to know is for me the get hold of one as soon as possible. Hope Oly Malaysia is reading this blog and already reserve one unit for me. :)

Next is the new 920+k screen. This is already standard for some manufacturers and I am happy Oly is doing this for E-5. I just hope the contrast is good at strongly lit sunshines and will not drain the battery easily during Live View shooting.

Lastly the so-called I-FINISH mode that supposed to provide control to Art Filters. I am not sure what this means, but I hope this is a killer feature.

I know that my statements with regards to the E-5 are pure estimates from my experience with its predecessors, but it serves as some expected benchmark of what the E-5 can do. Hope to see more image samples, and also if lucky can review the unit soon.

Till then....

The Olympus E-5?

Well, the picture of the purported E-5 is out in cyberspace.



It doesn't surprise me one bit for it to be very similar with the E-3. The silhouette image in my previous entry sure is the E-3 form factor.

Compare the E-3 with E-30 for ergonomics, the E-3 wins hands down for me.

But, what's more important is what it can do. From the purported specs, I can see the mashup of E-30 and E-Px technologies. There's no standout advancement feature so far, but there is rumour that the optical viewfindef will have "translucent technology" which means the LCD display can be seen on the optical prism. In fact, I am a bit sceptic about this.

Well, too much rumor mongering is not good for anybody's health. I would just wait for the official announcement tomorrow.

Now, where did I put that Olympus Malaysia business card??

Olympus E-5: The New Flagship

Lately, there is a strong buzz about the upcoming E-5 at Photokina. Come 15 November, Olympus will unveil its latest flagship camera to the world. It won't be Full Frame camera for sure. However, I bet it will be next level of technology Olympus like to showcase; namely by merging E-3 ruggedness, E-30 sophistication and E-P2 brilliance, not to mention an additional bag of trick or treat into the new E-5.





For me, the goodies sound nice. But will it be good enough to satisfy the hunger of my 4 brilliant Zuikos? E-30's 12MP resolution does not boast a challenge to the 14-35mm F2.0 optical prowess. Neither does the E-3's optical viewfinder to detail the 7-14mm uber wide coverage. The E-P2's 720p video won't do justice to the 35-100mm cinematic potential. Maybe the E-5 can solve the 50mm Macro focus limiter problem, though. Well, hopefully the E-5 adresses at least one of these problems. Or maybe not.

Will the E-5 boast at least 15MP? Or will it support EVF functionality?

As an insecure Olympus shooter, I am asking for things that is outside the ordinary. But what the heck! I see Olympus has the technological will to do many things, but it really lacks the commercial will. Somehow, being a small company with limited resources really dictates the do's and dont's of things. How sad!

Well, enough rambling from me for now. In just a couple of days we will know.

Hang on tight. If I am lucky, Olympus Malaysia may spare me a review unit!

Such exciting times ahead...

Zuiko and the Sony Experia X10

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For the past few weeks, I was busy with a new toy. Regrettably, I was left with little or no time to spend time with my Zuikos or even the nimble Canon S90. The Sony Experia X10, equipped with Android Donut 1.6, loaded with applications and features, was my focus of attention.

One of the nifty applications is the Retro Cam. I downloaded it last week, and got a good time playing with its 4 different camera effects. With the ability to hook the pictures directly with Facebook and Flickr makes my usage of this little contraption ever more worthwhile. The X10's 8MP sensor, with the right photographic situation, delivers enough resolution to rival the Canon S90.

Let's look at what the Retro Cam can do...

Effect with Xolaroid 2000 camera

High X-processing, blue/green cast, high contrast, glossy instant frame

Effect with pinhOle camera

Low saturation, multi-color swirl, medium-high contrast, full-bleed film

Effect with Little Orange Box camera

High X-processing, red/purple cast, high contrast, square damaged frame

Effect with The Barbl camera

Low saturation, red/purple cast, high contrast, square damaged frame

Well, the SE X10 won't be able to match the S90 overall output quality, or so much to challenge the Zuikos top notch optical performance. Nevertheless, the complete package offered by this smartphone is more than enough to not let me spend some time with other cameras. Nothing beats the instant capabilities to upload the pictures to Facebook and Flickr via high speed HSPA connection!

No worries, I will continue blogging away with regards to my Zuikos; but this new toy is so time absorbing!!

Another Session...

I just conducted another basic photography session.

A bit of activity to teach the tricks of group shooting.

To my students who are reading this blog entry, take note that the photo above is perfect composition based on the Golden Mean where the triangles A, B & C are clearly seen.

Me and my students.

The gist of my basic teachings are :
1. Get the exposure right, know the exposure triangle
2. Get the focus right, know where to point the lens
3. Get the perspective right, know the right angle, lens, and distance to get the shot

Zuiko and Event Shooting Class

Lately I am quite busy with non-photography stuff; thus, the lack of new pictures and even substance for my blog. I am trying to find the time to do some photography, but since January, my weekends are swamped with family commitments.

Nonetheless, my teaching of photography is still on. Next week, I will hold a class on Event Shooting with additional Photoshop session. The 3-day course will be mostly practical as I expect the students to already master the basics of exposure and composition as this will be a very fast ride in advance skills and techniques.

Today is the day I have to submit the learning materials to the training organizer; and I hope all goes well.

Scrambling now....

Zuiko and Evolve

Recently, Olympus Malaysia has created a website titled http://www.evolve.com.my/. There was some hype in Facebook and Mychiarosuro.net websites.

9 days to evolve? Hmmmm...

There's rumor everywhere on the unveiling of the new E-5, or even a new line of E.. the E-700 series. No matter what it is, I really hope this will be something that is really, really good for us Fourthirds users.

Nonetheless, I have a feeling it's not for the Fourthirds... I am guessing it's for the microFourthirds E-PL1 camera. This is considering the expected launching of the E-PL1 in March 2010.

Ah well... let's wait and see.

The Olympus E-P2 is in the works...

A handsome shot of the Olympus E-P2 with the OM Zuiko 35-105mm f3.5-4.5 lens. Attached with the MMF-1 and MF-1 adapters, the lens grew about 30% longer!

22.5mm, f/4.9, 1/60s, ISO320, +0.3ev

This shot was made possible with the Canon S90, with the little dinky flash activating the Olympus FL-50R flash in slave mode. The source lighting for this shot was from 30% to the front side (S90 dinky flash) and directly from the rear (FL-50R 3 feet away @ f2.8 ISO400). The Canon S90 was mounted on top of a Manfrotto Table-top tripod.

Oh yes. The E-P2 is in the works now. My focus will be more with the EVF usage and OM lenses. I believe the OM200mm f4.0 lens will be more manageable with the EVF.

I am starting a gallery for E-P2 now, but so far the samples have little substance. I will replenish with better shots when I have more time to get things rolling.

Stay tuned.

The E-P2 Review is Coming, Stay Tuned!

Canon S90, 6mm, f2.0, 1/60s, ISO800

I ventured to the Pikom PC Fair this afternoon, and I met with the Olympus Executive Mr Leo.

Testing out the E-P2 Diorama Art Filter

The E-P2 was on show, albeit a pre-production unit. Upon testing for a few while I kindly asked for a unit for review.

So, one pre-production unit for review is coming next week. Stay tuned.

Panasonic DMC-GF1 MicroFourthirds Camera

I managed to test out the GF1 with the 14-45mm f3.5-5.6 G lens a couple of hours ago.

The delicious Panasonic DMC-GF1 served on a plate!

Comparing it with E-P1, it doesn't have the X-Factor, but at least it has a dinky flash that might work out well for me whenever it is required. Comparing it with my Canon S90, it makes the GF1 look like a behemoth!

Other than that, the GF1 just oozed goodness! The lens was sharp, but I find the interface was not as friendly as the E-P1. Maybe for Panny users, it's OK, though.

There's one that really got me annoyed on the ergonomics, though! I simply cannot find the Exposure Compensation (+/-) button anywhere. Maybe the Fn button is programmable for it, but the lack of a dedicated button for such an important photographic control is unacceptable!!!

Since I only tested it out for a couple of hours, I can only take some sample shots. Let the image do the talking.

Click image to activate gallery.

The Olympus E-P2, and Why I Ended Up with the S90

A lot of buzz has been happening this week regarding the launch of E-P2. Well, it turned out to be a minor tweak to the E-P1. Looking at the specs, I strongly suspect this was what the E-P1 should be. And, knowing that being the fastest to market is key in this new "compact-size, big-sensor" segment, I believe Oly rushed the E-P1 out of the oven. Nothing wrong there, but it may anger a few E-P1 owners especially it's only five months back.

I am for now still not satisfied with what Olympus is putting on the plate. For one, I somehow still want a built-in flash on it, a-la Panasonic's offering with the GF-1! Simply because I want my E-P1/2 to have a wireless-flash commander on it. I have two FL-s, and it's a waste not being able to use it with any E-P1/2 camera!

Enter the Canon S90.

Well, actually to be frank, I did not know about this camera's existence until yesterday. I was merely talking to my regular camera shop guy about the Panasonic LX-3 and it's cool retro looks. You see, I was looking for a photographer's camera that fits in a pocket. And the E-P2 was also in the list until I saw it still lacked the flash!!

He pulled out another LX-3 competitor, the Canon S90. I was not impressed, actually. I am quite hesitant with any Canon's offering except for calculators, printers, scanners and copiers. Then, he showed me the ultra-cool retro aspect of the S90; there's a Control Ring at the lens!!

Kudos!

This little contraption allows many functions that include Zoom steps of 28-35-50-85-105mm (in ancient 135 terms), Manual Focus, ISO selection, Exposure Compensation, and many other stuff. It literally won me over!!! The ease of use, akin to my E-3 and E-30 ability to allow quick access to key photographic controls meant that this the compact that I have been looking for! For many years now I have been dreaming of such a camera.

To top it off, the lens is an F2.0 at least at the wide end!!... And you guys know how am I a sucker for F2.0 lenses. I already have two F2.0 zoom lenses in my Digital Zuiko stable: the pro grades 14-35mm F2.0 and 35-100mm F2.0! With the S90's classic 28-105mm (again in ancient 135 terms) coverage, it is just perfect for nearly 80% of my typical shooting range!

And, the flash is so cool, too!!.... It's tucked nicely hidden to left of the body, which is perfect for some wireless flash action!!! (albeit only with Auto mode slave setting). Then again, the beauty of using compact P&S is the modern leaf shutter design. This means that I can sync up to maximum 1/1600s for outdoor fill-flash; not like the ancient DSLR's focal plane shutter that usually stuck at 1/250s!!!

And here it is, from Canon; which I didn't expect it to be! (pun intended, ;p) That explained why I didn't know about S90's existence until yesterday. Bummer!!!

A few haggles, and the deal was done. I am now a proud owner of a legend-in-the-making camera, similar to the E-P1!!

Here are a couple of shots with it.

Canon S90 with 6-22.5mm f2.0-4.9 lens

6mm (14mm equiv.), f/8.0, 1/1600s, ISO80, -2ev

Canon S90 with 6-22.5mm f2.0-4.9 lens

6mm (14mm equiv.), f/2.0, 1/25s, ISO800

Canon S90 with 6-22.5mm f2.0-4.9 lens

6mm (14mm equiv.), f/2.0, 1/60s, ISO200

These three pictures show the high quality of the images the S90 produce; flare control is good in strong sunlight, high ISO noise at 800 is acceptable, and the wide open bokeh just melts with goodness!

This is one camera that really elevated the standards of pocketable compacts to come.

Zuiko and Photography Classes

It's confirmed.

I will be conducting a series of classes for Beginner Photography; three classes to be exact. Starting at the end of October, the classes will continue until mid November. Total students? More than 60!!!!

A training company has engaged me for my photography skills and know-how. I am building a curriculum for the next stage, maybe into Lighting and Portraiture. I just hope everything turns out well.

Wish me luck!!!!

Zuiko and a Birthday at Carcosa Seri Negara

Carcosa Seri Negara.

A beautiful lodge right at the heart of Kuala Lumpur, and be amazed of the lush greeneries surrounding the compound!

The interiors were captivating.

14mm, f/2.5, 1/13s, ISO800, Auto Gradation

Last night was a special night. For both of us, and definitely for my lovely wife to celebrate her birthday. In actual fact, it was supposed to be last week; alas, little Imran was admitted to the hospital.

E-30 with Zuiko Digital ED14-35mm F2.0 SWD

14mm, f2.5, 1/13s, ISO800, Auto Gradation

A romantic dinner? Nothing comes close to candlelit fine French cuisine.

Carcosa Seri Negara is a little hotel located on a hill surrounded by huge Angsanas. It's hard to phantom, but this hamlet is just a stone's throw away from my ultra-urban office!!

14mm, f/4, 1/5s, ISO800, Auto Gradation

Based on the colonial residents back in the days of Sir Frank Swettenham, Carcosa is adorned with plush interiors with the nostalgic rustic charm. The dark but cosy ambiance ensures a private yet warm feeling while dining, with the waiters ever so ready for immediate attendance. Very exclusive indeed.

14mm, f/2.8, 1/20s, ISO800, Auto Gradation

The architecture hides nothing of its past. The open columns and tall ceilings that are the hallmarks of colonial design are very apparent.

Such a nice atmosphere. Amazing. The food was just perfect for the occasion.

This is the place for special occasions. If you want to celebrate it with your loved ones, this is one place at the top of the charts.

E-P1 as it Sneaks Out My Pants Pocket

I just got hold of the E-P1 with M.Zuiko Digital ED14-42mm F3.5-5.6, M.Zuiko Digital ED17mm F2.8 and the MMF-1 Adapter.

First impression?

The size is cute... The AF is responsive... The whole package fits in the pocket!!!

Review? Coming soon...

The Olympus E-P1

Well, it's official. The P in the E-P1 stands for the PEN.

Touted by Olympus not a DSLR nor a Point-&-Shoot, but a PEN, this is bold marketing.

Nonetheless, not many knows the PEN series as it was popular way back in the 60's. Olympus needs to bridge the generation gap with a bit of history with the current Gen-X and Y's.

I have to confess I have not seen it or touched it yet. But, from the writings on the wall, the E-P1 should be a great performer.

For the past nine days, Olympus Malaysia have been engaging a local radio station to build the E-P1 hype in the airwaves. Two dee-jays, Ben & Phat Fabes, have been debating about which camera is better, the "PROS" or the "COMPS". The losing dee-jay has to eat their words, and do the dares if they lost the debate!

Aptly named "The Big Camera Debate", the show has hit some high notes, especially with the dares. To make things worse, this is open to public. All the gritty details are captured and presented in a multimedia format at this Link.

Zuiko and the Upcoming M.Zuiko

Wow. Apparently I was wrong about the micro4/3 lens. It will carry the Zuiko name, albeit with an M. as a prefix.

This is the rumored E-P1, the first micro4/3 camera from Olympus - there are 2 micro43 cameras launched by Panasonic, the G1 and GH1.

My initial reaction was a bit of a disappointment. Mostly due to the color, and also the lens speed.

The fastest prime is only at f2.8. But, it still holds promise, as it is rumored that the pro-m43 camera for Olympus is slated for year-end release. We can keep our fingers crossed for it!

Having mentioned Panasonic, I actually held the G1 for the first time last Saturday. All I can say was praises for the Contrast Detect AF system. It was responsive although it was in EV8 lighting (brightly lit indoors). That impressed me a real lot!

I managed to mention about the 4/3-micro4/3 adapter, and the quote I got was quite steep - RM900 or something!! And the shop did not have it in stock. Need to order!!

I was eager to test the G1 with my Zuiko Digital ED14-35mm F2.0 SWD lens. Bummer!! That will put me off the micro43 system for a while, definitely.

Nevertheless, I am still hoping for the pro-spec'd micro4/3 from Olympus... It will be a great addition to my current 4/3 line.

Image sourced from http://43rumors.com

Zuiko and the Coming of Olympus m4/3

I wonder what the new Olympus micro FourThirds camera will look like.

The first glimpse, as sourced from www.omuser.com.

Wow!! A pancake Olympus Digital 17mm F2.8 (Note: there's no Zuiko name there.... I wonder why...)!

I hope this is the real deal!!!

This will be a real cracker in the DSLR camera industry!!! It will be just like the coming of the Olympus OM-1 back in 1971 that shocked the SLR world!!!!

In a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the legendary Olympus Pen, the upcoming E-P1 as its codename, definitely continues the Pen's DNA.

Also, first sketches of the E-P1 can be seen here. The retro styling will continue the romance of the nostalgic with the technology of now!

The E-P1 is a dynamite pocket rocket that can:

1. Fit in the pocket and still look cool
2. Capture D-SLR quality images
3. Support interchangeable lens system, even with its bigger brother the 4/3
4. Capture HD video
5. Integrate fully with Panasonic m4/3 system

It is truly a great era in the digital imaging world!

A New E-SLR Cometh?

I was taken by surprise when I received this invite from Olympus Malaysia for a lunch gathering on the 28th of this month. First of all, I was been told upfront about the gathering due to my review of the E-30 back in late December 2008. But, the first line item on the agenda was really a surprise!!!

I was told by a very reliable source that the new E-SLR will be between the recently launched E-30 and E-520. Another TWEENER?

I hope it will have something different to offer from the rest of the E-family. Really, really different!!!!

E-30 with Zuiko Digital 50mm F2.0 MACRO

50mm, f/5.6, 1/125s, ISO250

There are also some news in the forums that Olympus France will be announcing on the 26th of this month! Hmmmm... interesting times ahead, definitely.

Ah well, I have to wait for the microFourthirds announcement a little bit later, then. Maybe in June??