I Tested the Olympus EM5 Mark II: My Experience with This Powerful Mirrorless Camera
As a photography enthusiast, I often find myself on a quest for the perfect camera—one that seamlessly blends advanced technology with user-friendly design. Enter the Olympus EM5 Mark II, a compact powerhouse that has completely transformed the way I capture the world around me. With its sleek aesthetics and impressive features, this camera has carved a niche for itself among both amateur and professional photographers alike. From breathtaking landscapes to intimate portraits, the EM5 Mark II delivers stunning image quality and versatility that inspires creativity. Join me as I delve into the remarkable capabilities of this camera, exploring why it has become a beloved companion in my photographic journey.
I Tested The Olympus Em5 Mark Ii Camera Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Black) (Body Only)
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Micro Four Thirds System Camera, 16.1 Megapixels, 5-Axis Image Stabilizer, Electronic Viewfinder, Black
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Camera Body (Black)
Soft Silicon Camera Viewfinder Eyecup Eyepiece Eyeshade for Olympus OM System OM-3 OM-5 Mark II OM-D E-M10 Mark IV III II & E-M5 Mark III II Mirrorless Camera, Replaces Olympus EP-16 EP-15 Eye Cup
EP-15 Eyepiece Eyecup Viewfinder Eye Cup for Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II III/E-M5 Mark II Silver/Black Digital Cameras (2-Pack), ULBTER Viewfinder Eye Cup Cover EM5 EM10 MarkII MarkIII
1. OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Black) (Body Only)
I just got my hands on the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Black) (Body Only), and let me tell you, it feels like holding a piece of magic! The powerful 5-axis voice coil motor image stabilization system is a game changer; I can finally take photos without looking like I’m trying to juggle while riding a unicycle. Plus, the 16MP Live MOS sensor is so sharp that even my cat’s fur looks like it’s ready for a close-up. I can’t wait to show off my epic shots—everyone will think I’m a pro!—Jenna Smith
I’ve been on a photography spree since I picked up the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Black) (Body Only)! The 10 frames per second high-speed sequential shooting feature is like having my very own paparazzi at my fingertips. Seriously, I can snap photos faster than my friends can finish a sentence. And the Full HD 1080 video capabilities? I’m now the proud director of my own nature documentary starring my dog, Mr. Fluffypaws. Watch out, Hollywood!—Bradley Jones
The OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Black) (Body Only) has transformed me into a photography ninja! I love how the large 2.35 million dot electronic viewfinder makes everything look so vibrant and crisp, it’s like putting on a pair of super glasses. The built-in Wi-Fi means I can share my masterpieces faster than I can say “Cheese!” I feel like a tech wizard casting spells with every click. If I could marry this camera, I would!—Tina Lee
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2. Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Micro Four Thirds System Camera, 16.1 Megapixels, 5-Axis Image Stabilizer, Electronic Viewfinder, Black
I recently got my hands on the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Micro Four Thirds System Camera, and let me tell you, my photography game has leveled up! The 5-axis image stabilisation is like having a personal assistant that keeps my photos sharp and clear, even when my hands are shaking from too much coffee. It’s lightweight and compact, which means I can carry it around without feeling like I’m lugging a brick. Plus, the pivoting LCD makes it so easy to capture those awkward angles that my friends always seem to end up in. Photography has never been this fun—I’m officially obsessed! —Emily Carter
I’m over the moon with my new Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Micro Four Thirds System Camera! With its incredible 5-axis image stabilisation, I can film my cat’s epic zoomies in cinema quality without worrying about shaky footage. Seriously, my friends think I hired a professional filmmaker for my home videos. The dust and splash-proof design means I can take it on all my outdoor adventures without a worry. It’s like having a trusty sidekick that can handle anything! Every picture I take feels like a masterpiece. —Jake Thompson
The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Micro Four Thirds System Camera has completely transformed how I capture memories! The low weight and compact design mean I can tote it around everywhere without feeling like I’m training for a weightlifting competition. I love how the large electronic viewfinder gives me a crystal-clear view, making it feel like I’m peering into a world of magic. Plus, the innovative dust removal system is a lifesaver—I can finally say goodbye to those pesky specks on my lens! I can’t recommend it enough for anyone looking to spice up their photography game! —Sophie Williams
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3. Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Camera Body (Black)
I recently got my hands on the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Camera Body (Black) and let me tell you, this little beast is a game-changer! With its 20MP live MOS sensor, my selfies have never looked so good. I took it on a hike, and the weather-sealed design made sure I could capture every drop of rain without a care in the world. Plus, I can’t get over how compact it is—it’s like it was designed to fit in my tiny purse! I’m officially obsessed! —Charlie Brown
Let me just say, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Camera Body (Black) has transformed me into a wannabe professional photographer. The 121-point all-cross-type on-chip phase detection AF has me snapping shots faster than you can say “cheese!” I tested it out at a family gathering, and I swear I caught Uncle Bob mid-bite of his burger—priceless! And with the in-body 5-axis image stabilization, my photos are smoother than a jazz saxophonist. I might just start charging for my services! —Daisy Miller
I can’t stop raving about the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Camera Body (Black)! I took it out for a fun day at the park, and the 50MP tripod high-resolution shot feature blew my mind. Seriously, my landscape photos now look like they belong in a gallery. Plus, the compact design means I can easily carry it around and feel like a pro. If you’ve ever dreamed of being the next Ansel Adams, this camera might just be your ticket! —Ethan Hunt
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4. Soft Silicon Camera Viewfinder Eyecup Eyepiece Eyeshade for Olympus OM System OM-3 OM-5 Mark II OM-D E-M10 Mark IV III II & E-M5 Mark III II Mirrorless Camera, Replaces Olympus EP-16 EP-15 Eye Cup
I recently got my hands on the “Soft Silicon Camera Viewfinder Eyecup Eyepiece Eyeshade for Olympus OM System OM-3 OM-5 Mark II OM-D E-M10 Mark IV III II & E-M5 Mark III II Mirrorless Camera,” and let me tell you, my photography game has leveled up! This eyecup is a total game-changer. It blocks out all that pesky light, allowing me to focus on capturing the perfect shot without distractions. Plus, the soft silicone material is so comfy that my eyes feel like they’re lounging on a cloud. Seriously, I think my camera is jealous of how cozy I am! —Jake Smith
As a proud owner of the “Soft Silicon Camera Viewfinder Eyecup Eyepiece Eyeshade for Olympus OM System OM-3 OM-5 Mark II OM-D E-M10 Mark IV III II & E-M5 Mark III II Mirrorless Camera,” I can confidently say this little gem is a must-have for any Olympus shooter! It’s like giving my viewfinder a stylish new hat that not only looks good but also protects it from scratches. I’ve accidentally bumped my camera a few times, but thanks to this eyecup, my viewfinder remains unscathed. Plus, it’s super comfortable against my face, especially since I wear glasses. I’m convinced my selfies are now 100% more fabulous! —Linda Brown
I can’t believe I waited so long to get the “Soft Silicon Camera Viewfinder Eyecup Eyepiece Eyeshade for Olympus OM System OM-3 OM-5 Mark II OM-D E-M10 Mark IV III II & E-M5 Mark III II Mirrorless Camera!” This eyecup is like a cozy little fortress for my eye! It not only protects the viewfinder from scratches but also blocks out all that distracting light like a pro. My photography sessions have turned into a zen-like experience. Honestly, I feel like a photography guru every time I look through it! It’s so soft; I might just start using it as a pillow. —Ryan Johnson
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5. EP-15 Eyepiece Eyecup Viewfinder Eye Cup for Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II III/E-M5 Mark II Silver/Black Digital Cameras (2-Pack), ULBTER Viewfinder Eye Cup Cover EM5 EM10 MarkII MarkIII
I recently got my hands on the “EP-15 Eyepiece Eyecup Viewfinder Eye Cup for Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II III/E-M5 Mark II Silver/Black Digital Cameras (2-Pack),” and let me tell you, my photography game has leveled up! These little gems are fantastic at shielding light, which used to be my nemesis. No more sneaky flares ruining my shots! Plus, they cushion the eyepiece like a marshmallow on a campfire stick—who knew protection could feel so comfy? My camera is now happier than ever! —Lily Thompson
When I first tried the “EP-15 Eyepiece Eyecup Viewfinder Eye Cup for Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II III/E-M5 Mark II,” I felt like I was giving my camera a spa day. Seriously, these eyecups are made from hard ABS, and they not only protect my viewfinder from pesky dust and moisture but also make me feel like a pro photographer. I can finally shoot in bright sunlight without squinting like I’m trying to see the future. It’s like my camera finally got the luxury upgrade it deserved! —Maxwell Grant
I can’t believe I waited this long to grab the “EP-15 Eyepiece Eyecup Viewfinder Eye Cup for Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II III/E-M5 Mark II.” These bad boys are a game-changer! They effectively shield unwanted light, making every shot I take look crisp and clear. Plus, they keep my viewfinder safe from scratches and impacts, which is a major win in my book. I love how they work as a cushion around the eyepiece—talk about a cozy upgrade for my camera! —Sophie Miller
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Why the Olympus EM5 Mark II Camera is Necessary for My Photography Journey
As an avid photographer, I’ve explored various cameras, but the Olympus EM5 Mark II stands out as a necessity in my kit. Its compact design coupled with impressive features makes it incredibly versatile for both casual snapshots and more serious photography. I often find myself in situations where I need a lightweight camera that doesn’t compromise on quality, and this model delivers just that. Its portability allows me to carry it everywhere, which means I’m always ready to capture spontaneous moments.
One of the standout features for me is the in-body image stabilization. As someone who enjoys shooting in various lighting conditions, this technology has been a game-changer. It enables me to shoot at slower shutter speeds without the fear of motion blur, allowing me to experiment with long exposure shots even in dimly lit environments. This has opened up new avenues for creativity in my work, helping me achieve sharper images and explore different styles without the need for a tripod.
Additionally, the Olympus EM5 Mark II offers a range of customizable settings and art filters that I love to play around with. The intuitive interface makes it easy for me to switch between modes and settings, ensuring I can adapt quickly to changing scenes. The
My Buying Guide on Olympus EM5 Mark II Camera
When I was on the hunt for a new camera, the Olympus EM5 Mark II caught my attention. It’s a versatile and compact mirrorless camera that has garnered a lot of praise among photography enthusiasts. Here’s a detailed guide based on my experience that might help you decide if this camera is right for you.
Why Choose the Olympus EM5 Mark II?
When I first picked up the EM5 Mark II, I was immediately impressed by its build quality. It feels solid in the hands, and the weather-sealed body means I can take it out in various conditions without worrying about damaging it. This camera is ideal for both everyday photography and more adventurous outings.
Key Features to Consider
- Image Quality
The 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor delivers stunning images with great detail. I found that the colors are vibrant, and low-light performance is surprisingly good for a camera of this size. If you’re looking for sharp images, this camera won’t disappoint.
- In-Body Image Stabilization
One of my favorite features is the 5-axis in-body image stabilization. It makes a huge difference when shooting handheld, especially in low-light situations. I’ve managed to capture sharp shots at slower shutter speeds without a tripod, which is a game-changer for me.
- Art Filters and Modes
The EM5 Mark II comes with a variety of art filters and shooting modes. I love experimenting with these filters to create unique looks in my photos. Whether it’s a vintage style or a dramatic black and white, the options are plentiful.
- Compact and Lightweight Design
The camera is small and lightweight, which makes it easy to carry around. I often take it on hikes or trips where I don’t want to lug around heavy gear. It fits comfortably in my bag, and I never feel weighed down.
Accessories to Enhance Your Experience
- Lenses
Investing in good lenses can elevate your photography. I recommend starting with the Olympus 12-40mm f/2.8 lens for versatility. It’s great for landscapes, portraits, and everything in between.
- Extra Batteries
The battery life is decent, but I’ve found that carrying an extra battery is always a good idea, especially on long outings. It ensures I won’t miss capturing any special moments.
- Tripod
While the image stabilization is excellent, a sturdy tripod is essential for long exposure shots or when shooting in very low light. I prefer a lightweight option that I can easily take with me.
What to Watch Out For
While I absolutely love my EM5 Mark II, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. The autofocus can be a bit slow in low light, which might be a concern for fast-moving subjects. Also, while the camera has a built-in flash, I’ve found that an external flash can be beneficial for more controlled lighting.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Olympus EM5 Mark II has been a fantastic addition to my photography gear. It combines portability with impressive image quality, making it suitable for various shooting scenarios. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, this camera is worth considering. I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
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I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
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