Suggestions on replacing system!

[KidA]

I've been using the OM system for over 5 years now. In many ways, this system is just right for me - there is little missing. I get great images, they are small and light bodies and lenses, they are built well and I feel I can tackle 'everyday' photography quite well. Even when it comes to macro, I'm well covered.

What I'm not able to overcome is covering the (super)telephoto end. I'm looking for big bright lenses to shoot race cars when I go to Formula 1 events. 350-500mm range, and USEABLE f/4 or f/5.6 lenses are way out of my price range. So far, I have used a Zuiko 65-200mm f/4 with a 2x teleconverter. f4 is not usable on that one, so with the teleconverter the max aperture I can get away with is only f11 - and f5.6 isn't that great on the lens either, so in reality a nice picture isn't starting to come unless I'm shooting at f16... which means I need higher speed film then... and even then, the images aren't anything great.

I would like to shoot 100 speed colour negs, namely Ektar in a potential overcast setting.

Renting OM lenses is not an option where I am (Toronto). But there are plenty of places to rent out fancy Nikon and Canon lenses and also some 3rd party lenses for those mounts. Should I consider switching to a Nikon system? (I haven't researched Canon much...)

I understand that setting up a new system would cost about as much as a very exotic Zuiko fast telephoto, BUT it also means that I get a new system, not just one lens, and the added benefit of being able to rent a huge amount of lenses for when I need them. Collecting nice cameras is always kinda cool!

I understand my life would change considerably if I carry around say an F5/F6/F100 and Nikon lenses vs the OM4 and OM2 and their tiny lenses I carry around now. But the use of autofocus is something that has been on my mind more and more, as I seem so sometimes loose shots due to not being able to focus quick enough in manual mode. Automatic winding and burst shooting are almost rarely used by me (I have a motor winder that I've used maybe 2-3 times in 4 years), but having a winder included is never a bad thing - quick shot is really to go right away.

Would it be stupid to change (or add, as I don't see myself letting go of the OM) over to something like Nikon? Should I just look for a Zuiko 350mm f2.8 instead?

Any nice lenses that are easily rent able (or for purchase) that can be used on an OM body that I should consider?

I feel like one autofocus camera (example F4, F5, F6) and a manual one during winter (ex. FM3a) would be decent to carry around. Am I going to hate myself for going to much bigger and heavier for everyday use?

As you can see I'm a little confused and in the dark. I would like some suggestions and comments.


PS How do I attach a photo of some of my photos with my current set up so I can show you the types of results I'm getting with my current set up?

 

[chip j]

N90s is faster AF & lighter than F4.

 

[Bill Burk]

I'd get the 180 f/2.8 and maybe its matching 1.4x teleconverter.

 

[abruzzi]

I’m mostly invested in the Pentax K system, but I started trying out Nikon recently. One thing I noticed is that the Nikon lenses are usually a noticeable amount larger than the Pentax lenses of similar spec. I’ve never used Olympus, but I’m sure you’ll see the same size difference. While fast long lenses will all be big, be prepared for larger 50s, 35s, 85s and other primes.

 

[AgX]

I don't understand why you want to change the system. You are in need of one ora few certain lenses. But to my understanding not all at the same time.
Why then not buy just one Nikon or Canon body and add that to your system for special use?

 

[faberryman]

The 300mm f/4.5 is not a wildly expensive lens.

 

[MattKing]

I don't understand why you want to change the system. You are in need of one ora few certain lenses. But to my understanding not all at the same time.
Why then not buy just one Nikon or Canon body and add that to your system for special use?

I would agree.

 

[Chan Tran]

I would suggest the Nikon system based on the F5. There are many lenses to choose from. Just about any Nikon F mount lenses would work except for the new E type lenses and pre AI lenses. Nikon F mount lenses are plenty, Good and bad, New and Used.

 

[jimjm]

One of the relatively newer Nikon bodies like the F100 or F5 might fit your need. As well as being able to use almost any manual AI/AIS or auto focus lens, they are also compatible with the VR feature on newer lenses, which is great if you also are taking hand-held shots.
I use an F100 with the 70-300 VRII zoom for bike racing and it's been great. Without the extra battery pack, the F100 is fairly small and light, although not OM-size small.

 

[Paul Howell]

Any fast 300 to 500 is going to be pricey. Given that you are looking at lens in that range do a search for lens and prices, both AF and MF then once you have a lens that meets your needs get a body that matches. On the other hand for the OM system, in the not so fast range you can find some decent 3rd party glass in 300 and 400, like 5.6 or 6.2. I have a vivitar 300 5.6 in both Miranda and Pentax K, it is a good performer at F8 to 11. I also have a Soligar 400 6.2 T mount that is very good at F8.

In terms of AF, I would really think about Canon 1v, with sports battery grip, just about any Canon EOS lens will work on a film body, meaning you can rent canon lens. If buying 3rd party need to make sure that it will work on a Canon, as I understand it some early Sigma lens do not do well. Canon L lens are some of the best. Canon is still supporting the 1V so it is repairable.

 

[film_man]

If you only need to use something else for the long stuff, as already said you don't need to switch systems. For $100-150 you can get a Canon EOS 3 which has the fastest AF this side of $200. The only things that will focus faster are the F5 and the 1V which will cost you twice as much, at least. So you get the 3 body and then rent what you need. You could splash out another $50-100 for a PB-E2 and you can fire away at 7fps and watch your money burn up in a few seconds!

 

[ciniframe]

You could get the OM mount Zuiko 350mm f2.8 at only 3.9kg. KEH currently has a 'bargain' grade one for 'only' $1825.00!
Any long fast glass is going to be expensive. You might look for a Tamron 300mm f2.8 Adaptall SP and get a OM mount for it. They are hard to find though and could run in the $500~1000 range

Or just stock up on Portra 800 film.

 

[John Koehrer]

Mall & light give you the Pentax MX or LX, Nikon FE or FM, they're similar in size and weight to the OM but the control layout is more traditional
with the shutter speed on top of the body. Nikon's a bit larger. If you have a retailer you can visit without going on safari try them in your hand,
you're the only one that knows what's going to be comfortable to handle.

Long telephotos are common in Canon or Nikon because of the professional users.

 

[WilmarcoImaging]

KidA,

Have you considered the Minolta/Sony system? It does everything you listed.

The Maxxum 9 / Dynax 9 / Alpha 9 was one of the last generation of film bodies and it does it all. Alpha-mount lenses are current production, and include 300 f/2.8, 400 f/2.8 and 500 f/4 examples, plus 1.4x and 2x teleconverters. Not to mention Zeiss lens availability, which have glass that speaks for itself. Digital compatibility is possible with Alpha-mount lenses and current production DSLR bodies. PM me if you want to know more. I have a Maxxum 9 body in mint- condition available if interested.

 

[wy2l]

KidA:
I have Two Nikon FM3A's... they are beautiful instruments, like a Swiss watch. Not inexpensive, highly recommended.
Big Nikon AIS glass is not inexpensive. Recommend you spend some time and price out lenses before you settle for a system,

Kris

 

[Paul Howell]

As a Minolta A mount user, Minolta 9, 7, 800si, 600 classic and 9000 with drives, I can vouch for the capabilities of the 9, downside is that unless the 9 was factory modified it will not drive the latest lens, other consideration is that Sony glass is expensive. Older G lens that will work on the 9 are really good, the price remains high for long primes. The 7 came out later than the 9 and will work with all lens including the newest Sony A lens.

Only reason I recommend a Canon 1V is that is still supported by Canon and will be for next 5 or so years.

 

[Bill Burk]

It occurs to me that long fast glass is so expensive that you can choose that first and add the rest of the system for peanuts comparatively.

 

[mgb74]

A very light body (Olympus OM, Pentax ME/MX) might actually not balance well on the back end of long, heavy glass.

 

[Sirius Glass]

I am happy with the Nikon N75 and even more so with the Nikon F100, but everyone will jump in with their personal drug of choice and freely tell you that not other equipment is better. Really the only way for you to decide is to handle, borrow, rent each model of interest and decide which is the best for you.

 

[narsuitus]

I have changed camera systems only once in my life. Decades ago, I had to change my first 35mm camera system (i.e. camera bodies, lenses, and accessories) from Miranda Sensorex to Nikon because the Miranda was just too unreliable.

Dumping the Miranda system was not difficult for me because I was replacing an unreliable system for something much better. However, in your case, you would be replacing a system that is perfect for you. All you really need is a fast telephoto lens.

If I were in your position, I would keep the Olympus system and just save enough money to purchase a Zuiko 350mm f/2.8 to meet my needs for a fast telephoto lens.

 

[Les Sarile]

I've blown through many rolls of film using a variety of Canon "L" telephoto zoom lenses coupled to motorized EOS3 / EOS1V and not once missed critical focus. These lenses are fairly commonly available for rent and they autofocus so quickly - even with extenders, that you won't even think about it. The quality out of these zoom lenses will not leave you wanting for fixed focal length lenses. The image stabilization also works very well.

If that weren't enough, with the right adapter, you can even use your OM lenses - with focus confirmation, on the EOS camera as well as the OM Varimagnifinder.

Of course all autofocus cameras have tiny/squinty viewfinders when compared to the huge viewfinder magnification of the OM series.

This one on Fuji RVP 100F using slow shutter speed to get the proper prop blur while panning. The IS on the EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM works really well for this type of shooting even handheld. Long focal length at slow shutter speeds are no problem.

This one on Fuji Press 800 @ 9fps using EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM handheld indoors. These fast zoom lenses are great to use wide open.

BTW, one great benefit of these big 'L' lenses is that you can be mistaken as "pro" and get access to areas where the general public are not allowed . . .

 

[bimmey]

I have used Tamrons on my OM system. Specifically the 300mm 2.8 with 1.4 teleconverter, and the 180mm 2.5 sp lens. Both are very good performers. The Tamron 70mm to 210mm 3.5 sp is also a great lens that is smaller than the 2.8 version. Good luck finding a tele that works for you.

Steve

 

[M-88]

I don't know which bodies you have, but there's a good chance that you have OM-4. And in that case, you will hardly ever find anything as light and as versatile. I was in the same position as you several months ago, only I didn't want a telephoto lens, I wanted a unified lens mout for my digital and film cameras. So I subsequently sold my OM-4, OM-1, set of standard lenses and moved to K-mount, because Pentax lenses are high quality and compact (NiCanon are also high quality lenses, but significantly bulkier so I won't even be talking about them. Even if you buy a compact body like Canon A-1 or Nikon FE-2, you'll still be stuck with massive lenses compared to that of OM system). And surprise surprise - There is not a single body on K-mount which will be as compact and as able as OM-4, unless you go for Pentax LX which is significantly priceyer than OM-4. And a bit heavier as well.

The best part? You can buy a Tamron Adaptall telephoto lens for the price of that Pentax LX to happily use on your Olympus body, like many users already suggested. You don't have to repeat my mistakes. OM system is a good one

P.S. I bought a nice OM-2 body for 12$ (the owner thought it was missing a mirror, when really it was just locked up) and I use it for casual walks. Some things just can't be replaced.

 

[johnha]

The problem with adding another system (or half of a system for a specific purpose) is that you fragment your gear and may end up running two parallel systems (duplicating lenses as you go). One way to minimise this is to buy 'universal' lenses - i.e. Tamron Adaptall 2 or possibly M42 with a suitable adapter. My preference would be to look for a Tamron AD2 300/2.8 or similar (they were relatively popular back in the day), a matched teleconvertor, and an OM mount adapter.

Renting or buying AF fast long glass is more practical for Canon & Nikon as there's a bigger market for those mounts, and of the two, only Nikon made mechanical bodies (if that's important).

 

[KidA]

Thanks for all your help.

Looking into the 1v, it seems like someting I should definitely look into. The advanced shake reduction seems great - how do the Nikon VR lenses hold up to the IR of the canon?

I must say tho, that my 'looks' alarm is sounding a bit on the 1v. I find F4, F5, F6 much more pleasing on the eyes... But I've never seen the F6 nor the 1V in person, and I know opinions can change in person and in the hand.