Dear E-M1 Owner,
The year 2008 saw the birth of the Micro Four Thirds format, pioneered by Olympus. At that time, only a handful of forward-thinking manufacturers embraced the new format and joined the consortium. Fast forward to 2015, and there are now 17 different manufacturers of cameras and lenses who have joined the consortium and are bringing high-value products to consumers! Our first OM-D model, the E-M5, was introduced in the first half of 2012. The OM-D E-M5 was our first mirrorless camera to incorporate a high-resolution and high-speed electronic viewfinder. It was an immediate hit with both photographers and editors and put the world on notice that mirrorless products were the future of imaging.
Of course, we continued to listen to our customers’ demands, and in the fall of 2013 we introduced the OM-D E-M1—the flagship of the OM-D family. The E-M1 embodies all of the key attributes of the successful E-M5 and more. A newly developed sensor that supports phase detection autofocus allows photographers to utilize their highly acclaimed Four-Thirds lenses on a modern mirrorless body. Olympus continued to take advantage of the creative freedom that the interactive EVF allowed and expanded on creative features such as the “color creator” feature first seen in the E-M1.
Our philosophy at Olympus is “we don’t stand still.” We continually look to the future and continue to innovate. We were the first to bring technologies such as effective sensor dust-removal systems, live view electronic viewfinders, and articulating LCD monitors to digital cameras—technologies that are now commonplace in the market. Our ZUIKO lens manufacturing know-how is second to none and is an integral part of the OM-D system.
The OM-D E-M1 is packed with many advanced features that will be appreciated by serious photographers. I know this because I own and photograph with an E-M1. Not being a professional photographer, I am so grateful for Mr. Darrell Young and Rocky Nook for having produced this fine book! It is not only teaching me all of the deep and amazing features of this camera, it has shown me how to use this great photographic tool to realize some of the creative things I try to do with my photography.
Olympus deeply appreciates that you have chosen to make the OM-D E-M1 the photographic tool that you will use to “Capture Your Own Stories.” Please enjoy this fine and informative book.
Thank you,
Hirohide “Harry” Matsushita
President, Olympus America Inc.
Consumer Products Group