you (probably) don’t need a full frame camera…

Today deals at Amazon, BHphoto, Adorama, Amazon DE, Amazon UK, Amazon FR, Amazon IT, FotoErhardt DE, FotoKoch DE.
OM System OM-1 Focus Stacking with Off Camera Flash Fixed (Rob Trek).
LUMIX Live: Exposure Tools? Yeah, We’ve got them!
Lowepro Announces Versatile ProTactic III Backpacks and Slings (Explora).
Gift Guide for the Traveling Creator (42West).

Plenty of news on the facebook OMD group, Panasonic FF and the GH5 group.
I kindly invite you all to follow me on Youtube, Instagram, Threads for more broader camera talk.

AI generated Christmas MFT camera :)

As the holiday season fills the air with warmth and joy, we want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible Micro Four Thirds community. Whether you’re capturing festive moments with your trusty Olympus or Panasonic gear, or sharing the beauty of the season through your lenses, this time of year reminds us why we love photography so much.

Here’s to another year of compact creativity! The Micro Four Thirds format has shown us that big things come in small packages, and your amazing work continues to prove that every day. From capturing vibrant landscapes to telling powerful stories with compact lenses, you make this community shine.

As we wrap up 2024 and look toward an exciting 2025 (hello, new gear rumors! 👀), let’s keep supporting each other, sharing inspiration, and exploring new creative horizons together.

📸 Happy holidays! May your season be filled with magical moments, stunning shots, and a dash of bokeh for good measure.

Warm wishes from our Micro Four Thirds family to yours! ✨

43rumors admin, Andrea Pizzini

If you lived in a cave, you might not have noticed that it’s Christmas now :)

If you are in need of making a last minute present check out the gift card deals on those pages at Amazon and BHphoto

A couple of hot deals still going on:

• You now save up to 50% on Topaz AI software bundles (Click here).
• Prime members save 25% on all new Nextorage CFexpress Type A and SD cards sold on Amazon US (Click here):
• $400 off on the Sony A7IV at Amazon, BHphoto, Adorama.
• $400 off on the Sony A7rV at Amazon, BHphoto, Adorama.
• Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 for $699 at Amazon, BHphoto, Adorama
• Tamron 35-150mm f/2.0-2.8 for $1,699 at Amazon, BHphoto, Adorama
• Tamron 50-400mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III for $1199 at Amazon, BHphoto, Adorama
• $87 off on the Viltrox 16mm f/1.8 FE lens at Amazon, BHphoto.

In 2024, OM System’s product releases were limited, with only one camera and two lenses introduced. This is what PetaPixel thinks about this:

Camera Release:
OM-1 Mark II: This model offered minor updates over its predecessor, the OM-1, with some enhancements that could have been delivered via firmware. The lack of significant innovation was seen as a missed opportunity to invigorate the Micro Four Thirds system. 

Lens Releases:
9-18mm f/4-5.6 II: A refreshed version of the original 2010 lens, maintaining the same optical design with cosmetic updates. While still compact and lightweight, it doesn’t introduce new optical advancements. 
150-600mm f/5-6.3 IS: This lens provides an impressive 300-1200mm equivalent focal length but is essentially a rehoused Sigma lens designed for full-frame cameras. Its large size and weight contradict the Micro Four Thirds system’s advantage of portability. 

Overall Assessment:
PetaPixel assigned OM System a grade of D for 2024, citing the lack of substantial new products and innovation. The limited releases failed to generate excitement or address concerns about the future of the Micro Four Thirds platform.

Best Budget Setup For Stunning Macro Images – NiSi 49mm Close Up Lens

Today deals at Amazon, BHphoto, Adorama, Amazon DE, Amazon UK, Amazon FR, Amazon IT, FotoErhardt DE, FotoKoch DE.
Dark clouds are hanging over the camera market again? (Mirrorlessrumors).
Which of These Canon Pro Series Printers Is Right For You? (Explora).
Let’s go out with a PEN! (Mapcamera).
Best Laptop Accessories That’ll Upgrade a Setup Immediately: A Gift Guide (42West).

Plenty of news on the facebook OMD group, Panasonic FF and the GH5 group.
I kindly invite you all to follow me on Youtube, Instagram, Threads for more broader camera talk.

Here’s a summary including PetaPixel’s opinions about Panasonic’s 2024 activities:

Micro Four Thirds System:

Lumix GH7:
• Key Features: 25.2-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, phase-detect autofocus.
• PetaPixel’s Opinion: This release is a solid update for hybrid creators, but the lack of standout innovation keeps it from being a game-changer. Its reception relies heavily on its affordability and niche appeal to vloggers and videographers.

Lumix G97:
• Key Features: Upgraded from the 2019 G95 with better video recording, a higher-resolution rear LCD, Bluetooth 5.0, and a USB-C port.
• PetaPixel’s Opinion: While a good refresh for enthusiasts, the G97 feels like a modest step forward rather than a revolutionary leap. The lack of new lenses for the system is seen as a missed opportunity.

Full-Frame Lumix S System:

Lumix S9:
• Key Features: Compact body, no electronic viewfinder, Real-Time LUT capabilities.
• PetaPixel’s Opinion: The S9 is a unique addition aimed at smartphone users and creators seeking creative tools. While innovative, its omission of an EVF could alienate traditional photographers, positioning it as more of a niche product.

New Lenses (18-40mm, 100mm macro):
• PetaPixel’s Opinion: These lenses were well-received for their versatility and build quality. They strengthen Panasonic’s full-frame lineup but don’t make a bold statement compared to the competition.

General Reflections on Panasonic’s 2024 Strategy:
• PetaPixel’s Opinion: Panasonic is clearly focusing on maintaining a balance between innovation and practicality, offering incremental updates rather than groundbreaking advancements. The company’s approach appears to cater to diverse audiences, but its lack of major innovations or a clear standout product in 2024 leaves it vulnerable to competitors making bolder moves in the camera market.