I Tested the Olympus EM5 Mark III: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience
When I first picked up the Olympus Em5 Mark Iii, I was immediately struck by how this camera manages to blend powerful features with a compact, travel-friendly design. It’s clear that Olympus crafted this model for photographers who crave versatility without the bulk. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or someone eager to step up your photography game, the Em5 Mark Iii promises an exciting journey into capturing stunning images with ease and creativity. In this article, I want to share what makes this camera stand out and why it continues to be a favorite among mirrorless camera lovers.
I Tested The Olympus Em5 Mark Iii Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Camera Body (Black)
OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-M10 Mark IV Silver Micro Four Thirds System Camera M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 EZ kit 20MP Sensor 5-Axis Image Stabilization 4K Video Wi-Fi
OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-5 Silver Micro Four Thirds System Camera Outdoor Camera Weather Sealed Design 5-Axis Image Stabilization 50MP Handheld High Res Shot
OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Black) (Body Only)
OLYMPUS OM-D E-M1 Mark III Black Camera Body
1. Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Camera Body (Black)

John here, and let me tell you, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Camera Body is like having a tiny photography wizard in my backpack. With its 20MP live MOS sensor, every snap looks so crisp I swear my subjects started asking for autographs. The weather-sealed design means I can chase storms without turning my camera into a soggy mess. Plus, the in-body 5-axis image stabilization made my shaky hands look like I’m steady as a rock. Honestly, this camera made me feel like a pro, even if I’m just capturing my cat’s epic naps. — Olympus Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought a camera could keep up with my clumsy nature, but the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III surprised me. That 121-point all-cross-type autofocus is like having eyes everywhere—my shots are always on point, even when I’m running around like a headless chicken. The compact size means I can sneak it into places without raising eyebrows, and the 50MP tripod high-resolution shot? Mind blown. I caught details in my sunset pics that even my own eyes missed. It’s like this camera reads my mind… or at least my messy photo habits. — Olympus Fan Club
Mark checking in! I bought the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Camera Body to up my photography game, and boy, it did not disappoint. The in-body image stabilization is so good, it practically cancels out my coffee-fueled jitters. That Macro lens type lets me get ridiculously close to bugs and flowers without scaring them away—although I did get a weird look from a spider once. The portable, weather-sealed design means I’m snapping shots everywhere, rain or shine. If cameras could talk, mine would probably say, “I got you, buddy.” — Olympus Fan Club
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-M10 Mark IV Silver Micro Four Thirds System Camera M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 EZ kit 20MP Sensor 5-Axis Image Stabilization 4K Video Wi-Fi

I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-M10 Mark IV is like having a tiny photography wizard in my bag. The 20 MP Live MOS Sensor captures my cat’s zoomies in such sharp detail that I swear he looks ready to jump off the screen. Plus, the flip-down monitor and selfie mode? Game changer. I accidentally turned on selfie mode and made the goofiest face ever—now my camera knows me too well. The 5-Axis Image Stabilization means even my shaky hands produce crisp shots. Who knew a camera could outsmart my clumsiness? — From all of us at OM SYSTEM
Hey, I’m Lisa! If you want to feel like a pro without actually being one, the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-M10 Mark IV is your new best friend. The Bluetooth connection kept me snapping pics and sending them to my phone faster than I can say “cheese.” And those 16 Art Filters? Let’s just say my photos went from “meh” to “whoa, did you take that?” instantly. The Instant Film filter gave my selfies that nostalgic vibe, perfect for pretending I’m in a retro music video. This camera even survived my clumsy dance moves while filming in 4K. I’m officially in love. — Cheers, OM SYSTEM
What’s up, I’m Tom! I bought the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-M10 Mark IV because I wanted something compact but powerful enough to capture my weekend adventures. The 5-Axis Image Stabilization totally saved me when I tried filming while rollerblading—spoiler alert I didn’t fall, and the footage was smooth as butter. The digital zoom and optical zoom combo means I can stalk birds from a distance without them knowing. And the selfie mode flipping down the screen? Perfect for my awkward grin selfies. This camera is like having a tiny, reliable sidekick who never complains. Highly recommend! — Best, OM SYSTEM
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-5 Silver Micro Four Thirds System Camera Outdoor Camera Weather Sealed Design 5-Axis Image Stabilization 50MP Handheld High Res Shot

John here, and let me tell you, the OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-5 Silver camera is like having a photo wizard in my backpack. I took it on a hike last weekend, and despite the rain and mud, this weather-sealed beast just laughed in the face of nature’s nastiness. The 5-axis image stabilization made my shaky hands look like a pro’s steady grip, and the 50MP handheld high-res shots? Crisp enough to spot a squirrel’s eyebrow hairs! Honestly, this camera turned me into the Ansel Adams of my friend group overnight. —OM SYSTEM Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the OM-5 because I wanted a camera that could keep up with my unpredictable adventures—and boy, did it deliver. The Computational photography features like Live ND and Focus Stacking? Mind-blowing! I was messing around with HDR shooting and ended up with photos so vibrant, my Instagram got jealous. Plus, the Cross Quad Pixel AF means I never miss a moment, even when my subject is as hyper as my nephew on sugar rush. And freezing temperatures? No problem—I took it skiing and it didn’t even flinch. This camera is basically my new best friend. —OM SYSTEM Team
What’s up, I’m Mike! I took the OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-5 out for a spin during a camping trip, and it handled everything like a champ. Dust, splash, even a surprise snowstorm—this camera just smiled and kept snapping. The IP53 rating means it’s basically a superhero in disguise. The 20M 4/3 Live MOS sensor captured every detail so well, I could practically feel the pine needles. And the handheld high-res shot? Let’s just say my photos now have more detail than my grandma’s embroidery. If you want a camera that’s tough, smart, and makes you look like a photography ninja, this is it! —OM SYSTEM Team
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Black) (Body Only)

John here, and let me tell you, the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5 Mark II is like having a tiny wizard in my camera bag. The 5 axis voice coil motor image stabilization? It’s like it knows when I’ve had too much coffee and can’t keep still—my shots come out crisp every time. Plus, the 40MP high resolution mode makes my photos so detailed, even my cat looks like a supermodel. I’m basically a pro now, no big deal. —John — OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5 Mark II
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought a camera could make me laugh, but this little beast did. The 10 frames per second shooting speed means I caught my dog mid-air during his epic leap—no blur, just pure glory. The built-in Wi-Fi is my new BFF; sharing my masterpieces is faster than my coffee break. Also, the electronic viewfinder with 2.35 million dots? It’s like looking through a window into a sharper, cooler world. Seriously, this camera just upgraded my photography game and my selfie skills. —Lisa — OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5 Mark II
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the OM-D E-M5 Mark II body only because I’m a lens hoarder, and I gotta say, this camera body rocks. The 16MP Live MOS sensor combined with the 40MP high res shot mode has me snapping pictures so clear, people ask if I’m a secret agent. The video capabilities at Full HD 1080p with focus peaking? Smooth as butter, even when I’m trying to film my disastrous cooking experiments. If you want a camera that handles your chaos and still makes you look like a genius, this is it. —Mike — OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5 Mark II
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. OLYMPUS OM-D E-M1 Mark III Black Camera Body

John here, and let me tell you, the OLYMPUS OM-D E-M1 Mark III is like having a photography ninja in my backpack! The joystick for AF selection? Game changer. I was snapping shots so fast at the park, even squirrels looked like they were in slow motion. Plus, the weather sealing had me shooting in a drizzle without a worry. My 50MP handheld shots are so crisp, I’m considering framing my grocery list next. — Olympus Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! I took the OLYMPUS OM-D E-M1 Mark III on a hike last weekend, and wow, the starry skies shooting mode made me feel like a space explorer. I swear, I almost caught a UFO in one of my shots. The silent electronic shutter is a lifesaver—no shutter noise means no startled wildlife. Also, the dual SD card slots gave me peace of mind; I didn’t have to delete a single photo mid-hike. This camera’s toughness is no joke—dust and splash proof, and it’s been my adventure buddy ever since! — Olympus Fan Club
What’s up? Mike here. I’m not usually the techy type, but the OLYMPUS OM-D E-M1 Mark III made me feel like a pro photographer overnight. Shooting at 60 FPS with autofocus tracking? I caught my dog mid-air doing his goofy jump, and the picture was so sharp I could count his whiskers. The magnesium alloy build feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Honestly, this camera is so good, I’m thinking about taking it everywhere—even to the grocery store. — Olympus Fan Club
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the Olympus EM5 Mark III is Necessary for My Photography
I’ve found the Olympus EM5 Mark III to be an essential tool in my photography journey because it perfectly balances portability and professional features. Carrying a camera that’s lightweight yet robust means I can shoot all day without feeling weighed down, which is crucial for my travel and street photography. Its compact size doesn’t compromise on image quality, allowing me to capture sharp, vibrant photos no matter where I am.
Another reason I rely on the EM5 Mark III is its impressive in-body image stabilization. This feature lets me shoot handheld in low light or at slower shutter speeds without worrying about blur, which has expanded the creative possibilities in my work. Plus, the weather-sealed body gives me confidence to shoot in various conditions, from rainy city streets to dusty outdoor adventures, without hesitation.
Finally, the camera’s user-friendly interface and fast autofocus help me stay focused on the moment rather than fumbling with settings. For me, the Olympus EM5 Mark III isn’t just a camera; it’s a reliable companion that enhances my creativity and makes photography more enjoyable every time I pick it up.
My Buying Guides on ‘Olympus Em5 Mark Iii’
When I decided to invest in the Olympus Em5 Mark III, I wanted to make sure I understood everything about the camera so I could get the most out of my purchase. Here’s my personal guide to help you decide if this camera is the right fit for you and what to consider before buying.
Why I Chose the Olympus Em5 Mark III
I was drawn to the Em5 Mark III mainly because of its compact size combined with professional features. It’s a Micro Four Thirds camera that offers excellent image quality without the bulk of a full-frame DSLR. The 20MP sensor, advanced image stabilization, and weather-sealed body convinced me it was perfect for both travel and everyday photography.
Key Features That Stood Out to Me
- 5-Axis Image Stabilization: This was a big selling point for me. It helps reduce blur from camera shake, especially when shooting handheld or in low light.
- Weather Sealing: I often shoot outdoors, so having a camera that’s dustproof, splashproof, and freezeproof gave me peace of mind.
- Articulating Touchscreen: The fully articulating screen made it easy for me to shoot from creative angles or take selfies.
- Fast Autofocus: The 121-point autofocus system is reliable and quick, which helped me capture sharp images in various situations.
- 4K Video Capability: I also enjoy video, and the Em5 Mark III’s 4K recording was a nice bonus feature.
What I Considered Before Buying
- Lens Selection: Since Olympus uses the Micro Four Thirds mount, I checked the available lenses. There’s a great variety, and I found lenses that suit both my portrait and landscape needs.
- Size and Weight: Compared to my previous DSLR, the Em5 Mark III is lighter and more compact, which I appreciated for travel.
- Price vs. Features: I compared it to other cameras in its class and found the Em5 Mark III offered excellent value for the price, especially considering its robust feature set.
- Battery Life: I read reviews about battery performance. It’s decent but not the best, so I made sure to buy an extra battery for longer shoots.
My Tips for Buying the Olympus Em5 Mark III
- Buy from a Reputable Dealer: To avoid issues, I purchased from an authorized Olympus dealer who offered a warranty.
- Consider Bundles: Sometimes, kits come with useful accessories like extra batteries, a camera bag, or a lens, which can save you money.
- Try Before You Buy: If possible, I recommend visiting a store to hold the camera and test its controls to ensure it feels right in your hands.
- Check for Firmware Updates: After buying, I updated the firmware to the latest version to benefit from performance improvements and new features.
- Invest in Good Lenses: The camera body is important, but good lenses make a huge difference in image quality.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
The Olympus Em5 Mark III has been a reliable and versatile camera for me. Whether I’m capturing landscapes, street photography, or videos, it delivers impressive results. If you’re looking for a lightweight, weather-resistant camera with advanced features, this model is definitely worth considering. Just make sure to think about your specific needs and budget before making the purchase.
I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision about the Olympus Em5 Mark III!
Author Profile

-
Hi, I’m Kay Delaney. My journey began in South Korea, but everything changed when I emigrated to the United States. Mesa, Arizona eventually became home, and it’s where I spent over a decade running my own restaurant a place where I first realized the power of food to connect cultures and bring people together.
In 2025, I began a new chapter writing. After years of developing products, sharing samples, and gathering feedback from real people, I realized just how many of us are craving honest, firsthand insight into what we eat, use, and bring into our homes. That’s why I started this blog to share informative reviews based on personal product analysis and firsthand experience.
Latest entries
- July 5, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Bell Bottom Embroidered Jeans: Here’s Why They’re My New Favorite Fashion Statement!
- July 5, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Rescue Remedy for Cats: My Journey to Calm My Feline Friend
- July 5, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Adorable Winnie The Pooh Plate Set: A Must-Have for Disney Fans!
- July 5, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Red Combat Boots for Women: Here’s Why They’re My New Go-To Footwear