RichardT's reviews

Olympus 12-100mm f/4 IS Pro M.Zuiko Digital ED

I use all the Olympus Pro's and Primes (except the 25mm f/1.2) and have really been looking forward to trying this lens because when I'm hiking in the hills or travelling I don't like to carry a load of gear. I changed to Olympus because of the weatherproof construction and light weight make the whole system much more usable and all round less hassle. I have been more than happy with the change and I have always been amazed by the quality of Oly a Pany glass.

First outing, I put the 12-100 on my favourite travel camera the EM5 mk2. As soon as I started shooting I knew this lens was something special and by the time I had looked at the shots in lightroom I knew I had found my dream travel lens.

Sharp - Oh yes, very sharp across the frame, even shooting wide open.

Colour rendition - For me this is really the most important factor, it simply takes the most gorgeous images. Seeing is believing.

Background Blur - Well, MFT is different from a larger sensor and need different technique, use longer focal length, get in closer, open up the aperture wide and just watch the background disappear. Just like using the 75mm f/1.8 for portraits. It works brilliantly and the zoom range allows so much framing versatility.

Image stabiliser - With the sync- IS using lens IS and Olympus body IBIS together it's like having a built in tripod.

My travel kit - The 12-100 f/4 with the tiny Oly 9-18 f/4 - 5.6 and the Panasonic 20mm f/1.7 prime. Thats it, thats all the kit I would take any trip now, such is the versatility and quality of this lens.

Value for money - Well, its not cheap, but it is very very good indeed and when you consider just how versatile it is covering a focal range from wide to med telephoto it represents very good value for money. Its definitely a professional or serious enthusiasts lens and anybody who buys it will not be disappointed.

I am loving it, if your photo life needs a lift then I highly recommend you try this lens. Happy shooting.