Firmware updates for Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mk II and OM-D E-M1X

The OM-D E-M1 Mark II camera, which has received a major firmware update. (Source: Olympus.)

Firmware Version 3.0 for the OM-D E-M1 Mark II adds high-precision autofocus (AF) performance, utilising the OM-D E-M1X algorithm to provide faster response times in demanding conditions, such as sports photography. C-AF Centre Priority improves the tracking of moving subjects and response to sudden subject movement. AF precision for still subjects when using S-AF is also improved for various subjects, while active  use of information from the On-chip Phase Detection AF sensor enhances AF performance while shooting video. Group 25-point has been added to AF Target, while C-AF Centre Priority can constantly autofocus with priority on the centre point  in all group modes. Where AF is not possible, the peripheral points in the group can focus on fast-moving subjects. The C-AF+MF mode enables users to instantly switch to MF by turning the focus ring while in C-AF for fine tuning the focus.

Low-light autofocusing when an f/1.2 lens has been extended to -6.0EV and high ISO noise performance is improved by 1/3 of a stop. Low ISO Processing (Detail Priority) has been added for higher resolution when shooting at low ISO sensitivity. USB RAW Data Edit is now supported for much faster RAW processing in Olympus Workspace when connecting the camera to a computer. Other improvements include the addition of anti-flicker shooting, an OM-Log400 movie-exclusive picture mode, quick image selection, an Instant Film Art Filter and an ISO L100 setting. Frame Rate Priority is added to the Live View Boost/On2 display and from three to 15 shots can be selected in Focus Stacking. Guide lines have been added to the shooting area. Users can now view setting changes and playback display while writing data to the memory card. Firmware Version 1.1 for the OM-D E-M1X provides support for the USB RAW Data Edit function that provides much faster RAW processing in Olympus Workspace when connecting the camera to a computer. Click here to visit the support page and download the new firmware for both cameras.

Olympus is also offering an upgrade to the  Olympus Workspace Image Editing Software. Version 1.1 of this application adds Focus Stacking for compositing images shot with Focus Bracketing. It also provides support for Lighten Composite and  Darken Composite functions, which make it possible to create images similar to Live Composite in the camera. USB RAW Data Edit support is now available for the OM-D E-M1 Mark II and OM-D E-M1X cameras. Click here  to download the update.