Despite its age, the M4/3 system
is still one of the best systems as far as photography is concerned.
You have the choice to change to any of your desired lenses at any time; they are light and compact, you can use viewfinders of you want to take video shots, and so much more.
Since the release of the m43 system in 2008, there have been many models, and it is a tad difficult to make a choice.
Here, we will show you what we recommend for your family and pet photography kit. We will cover:
- Cameras
- Lenses
- Lighting
Choosing the Camera
Panasonic Lumix GX800 / GX850
This is a camera that can let you take 4K videos, so it is like buying two products in one. In some areas of the globe, this is branded as GX800, but it is called GX850 in some others. These two cameras are the same.
Despite being an entry-level camera, it has several technological advantages such as WiFi and Bluetooth. The camera is also equipped with a tilting touchscreen.
If you want fast action, you can rely on its 10fps speed of burst shooting mode.
The battery also lasts long, as you can do about 200 shots before it gets drained. Thought the camera itself does not have an image stabilization mechanism, you can equip it with a lens that does the job.
Nevertheless, it is still a good practice to have a spare battery with you all the time.
Olympus OM-D-E-M10 Mark III
No m4/3 enthusiast has never heard of this camera. Despite the long name, it is a compact camera best suited for indoor and outdoor photography, and it uses 16 megapixels for its sensor.
Unlike the Panasonic Lumix, this has a body image stabilization. This is an acclaimed camera, and photography experts say that this is one of the best in the market.
It has a tilting touchscreen interface, and it is also capable of shooting 4K video.
With an electronic viewfinder, you won’t have to worry about the focus. Most importantly, the battery can last up to 300 shots.
Panasonic Lumix GX9
This is much more expensive than the GX800.
This camera is preferred by professionals, as it uses a bigger sensor at 20.3 megapixels. It has a stabilized lens, EVF, tilting touchscreen, and a built-in 5-axis image stabilization.
Like the GX800, it can shoot 4K video, and it also has connectivity options like WiFi and Bluetooth. However, the burst shot is limited at 9fps.
The camera’s battery can last up to 260 shots. If there is one caveat, it does not have weather sealing like the GX800.
Choosing the Lenses
Leica DG Nocticron
This lens is a prime one and has features like the Power Optical Image Stabilization. The lens sports 42.5 mm focal length, which means you can take full-frame images at medium range or distances.
Sold at $1,300 and above, this is a top-quality flagship product of Panasonic. The lens weighs 425 grams, and this is great if compared to others.
It is lightweight, and it is made with a combination of metals and plastics for a robust build.
The focus is automatic, and you cannot rotate the 67mm thread. However, it does an excellent job in autofocus in good lighting conditions, and you can switch to manual focus in poor lighting conditions.
Olympus M. Zuiko
This is a telephoto lens, which means it is best used in magnified images and narrow focus shots. The lens is between 40 to 150 mm, and you can use it to get wide-angle photos like you would on a 35mm lens.
Priced at above $1,300, this one is a sturdy lens, as it is made with a combination of metal and plastic. Due to the rubber gasket in the bayonet, the lens is dust and moisture resistant.
This is a heavy lens, as it weighs three-quarters of a kilogram. Despite this, it is a perfect fit or m4/3 cameras as it has a deep grip.
Panasonic Lumix G30mm
Though this is not a flagship product of the company, it is also one of the most affordable at around $300.
This one has a Mega IOS Image Stabilization, which is excellent for taking photos of moving objects, or if you are also in constant motion.
The bayonet is made of metal, but the body is metal and plastic. This is only 180 grams, so it is best used in compact cameras.
It is a 30mm lens, but it is a macro lens, which means that you can take shots at an angle view of up to 60mm.
Choosing the Lighting Equipment
If you take family and pet photography, a good camera and a right lens will not be enough. You should also have the appropriate lighting equipment, especially if you are taking it in a house or a studio.
Fovitec StudioPRO Lighting Kit
This is a pro kit that you can buy for less than $200. It will not let you down, as it has a solid build and powerful lights. Many professionals also praise this for its portability, as you can carry it everywhere you go.
If there is one unique feature that you must know, this lighting kit can provide different brightness. It is also energy efficient, with a silver lining that reflects light at its maximum potential.
The drawback of this kit is that it takes 30 minutes to set up.
ORLIT RoveLight RT 610 TTL Monolight
Priced at $550, this is a high-quality lighting system used by professionals. This one uses both types of power, the AC and the DC, and will use about 600 watts of power.
Despite being a moonlight, this a powerful light that is best used for portraiture. It is also available in different TTL types, with a fast flash duration. Most importantly, it is straightforward to use.
If you buy this lighting system, take note that it does not come with an umbrella.
Neewer Background Lighting Kit
Priced at $164, this lighting kit is built for
This is a great kit, but you must use it with editing software if you have no other background material.
Overall, it has an impressive build, it is cheap, and the lighting apparatus offers different lighting options. However, the backdrop seems to have a flimsy stand, and the light is not as powerful as the 600w bulb of the Orlit.
Summary
So, there you have it. There are three pieces of equipment that you need to facilitate family and pet photography.
All you need is to decide which ones will best fit your purpose and your budget. Choose a camera, a lens, and finally, get proper lighting to get the best shot.