OM System 17mm f/1.8 Mark II Review: A Tiny Lens With Big Potential

Om Systems 17mm f/1.8 mark II lens photographed on a black background in dramatic lighting.

Last Updated April 2026. I used to own the original Olympus 17mm f/1.8 back when I shot with the Pen-F. The 35mm equivalent field of view has always been one of my favourite everyday walk-around focal lengths, so that lens spent a lot of time on my camera. It was decent but not great — … Read more

Fujifilm X100VI vs OM Systems OM-3: A Real-World Comparison of Two Modern Retro Classics

The OM Systems OM-3 camera held in a hand at a bar near a tropical beach in beautiful afternoon sun light.

Last updated January 12th 2026: This article is based on real-world testing. I’ve used the Fujifilm X100VI since its release, and the OM System OM-3 was tested extensively throughout August — including on my latest trip to Moalboal in the Philippines. I know some people will say “why compare a fixed-lens camera to an interchangeable-lens … Read more

Why I bought the OM Systems OM-3 (And Could It Be the Pen-F’s True Successor?)

The OM Systems OM-3 camera photographed from the front on a black background in dramatic lighting.

When I first saw the OM System OM-3, my immediate thoughts were of nostalgia for the Olympus Pen-F that I owned and shot all those years ago. The Pen-F, while it had some serious flaws, was one of the most enjoyable cameras I’ve ever used. Beautifully designed — possibly the best-looking camera of the modern … Read more

Best Cameras for Every Level and Genre: A Comprehensive Guide Based on 20 Years’ Experience

The Fujifilm X-T5 next to the Nikon Z8 on a black background.

Last Updated 7th August 2026: This article was completely rewritten in August 2026. Every recommendation has been re-evaluated against the latest generation of camera bodies to help you make the best buying decision. Table of contents: Click the links to jump to the relevant section. Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through … Read more

Olympus Pen F vs OMD EM5 II

Olympus Pen F vs OMD EM5 II

Update September 2025: It’s been a very long time since I did this comparison between two of my favourite Olympus cameras. Since then I have shot with many systems, yet am always drawn back to OM Systems for their build quality, ruggedness, features and ergonomics. I’ve just bought the OM-3 and put it up against … Read more