A compact camera that can handle rough weather is essential when you’re hiking long trails with a heavy bag. The OM SYSTEM OM-3 mirrorless camera promises both, while also giving you access to advanced computational features and vintage-inspired design.
Coming to you from Leigh and Raymond Photography, this detailed video highlights the OM SYSTEM OM-3 mirrorless camera in real-world use at Bryce Canyon. The video makes clear why weather-sealing is crucial when the forecast includes rain and storms. You see how the camera’s compact body makes long hikes manageable without straining your back. The autofocus settings and customizable function buttons also get attention, especially how one button can be reassigned to quickly adjust ISO. What makes this part of the video stand out is the way the camera was tested not in a studio, but on trails, in less-than-perfect lighting, and in situations where ease of use mattered.
The video also covers some of the computational tools unique to the OM SYSTEM lineup. A dedicated CP button gives quick access to features such as focus stacking, multiple exposure, and high resolution mode. The OM-3’s 20.4 megapixel sensor can produce a 50 megapixel file when shooting in handheld high resolution mode, which shows how much flexibility you get beyond standard files. Paired with the in-body image stabilization, shots at shutter speeds as slow as half a second stayed sharp without motion blur. Early morning handheld video also looked steady thanks to stabilization that compensates up to 7 stops.
Key Specs
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Sensor: 20.4 Megapixel Four Thirds BSI MOS
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ISO Range: 200 to 25,600
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Image Stabilization: 5-Axis, Sensor-Shift
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Continuous Shooting: Up to 120 fps
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Video: DCI 4K and UHD 4K up to 60 fps, 10-Bit internal, HDMI output up to 10-Bit 4:2:2
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Built-In ND Filter: 2- to 64-stop electronic ND
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Viewfinder: 2.36M-dot OLED, 100% coverage
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Display: 3-inch articulating touchscreen LCD
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Media: Single SD/SDHC/SDXC UHS-II slot
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Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C, micro-HDMI, mic and headphone jacks
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Weather-Sealing: Yes, magnesium alloy body
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Weight: 0.9 lbs body only
The design of the OM-3 borrows from classic 35mm film cameras, particularly the OM-1. Dials on top provide quick access to exposure controls, and the creative dial makes it simple to switch color profiles that mimic different film looks. In the video, you see this feature used to commit to one style for a day of shooting, similar to loading a roll of film. Profiles like Pop Art 2 and Mono 4 bring unique results straight out of camera, letting you enjoy JPEG shooting without heavy editing later.
Lens choice also plays a role in the test. Instead of leaning only on wide angles, the 20mm f/1.4 lens was used to create a 40mm equivalent field of view, narrowing attention to details within the sweeping landscape. Other lenses, including a 45mm f/1.2 and a TTArtisan 10mm f/2, were brought along but used sparingly. Seeing the gear paired this way shows the versatility of the system while still staying lightweight for travel. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Leigh.
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