I have a buddy considering entering uw photography. He wants a cost effective system, small body with interchangeable lens.

I am strongly considering the m4/3 options, specifically the OM-D E-M5 mark III vs OM-D E-M10 IV as recommendations.

The least expensive option is the OM-D E-M10 IV including the AOI poly housing for ~$1600 USD.

Questions:

• Seems the E-M5 III has faster focus, but is it a major difference?

  • E-M5 III also requires a more expensive housing.

• If properly cared for, are there any downsides to the AOI housing?

• How is the image quality of 14-42 EZ lens and the AOI wet mount wide lens?

I appreciate any feedback on these specific models and the AOI housing.

@Chris Ross I know you have extensive knowledge in the m4/3 world.

Many thanks!

chip

**Please note - I have extensive experience with Sony and Canon models.

I own and use the Sony a1, Sony a6700, and Canon R5 as well as others in the past.

I also owned the E-M1 and loved it for a variety of reasons.

In my experience the m4/3 seems to be a solid option for his specific needs, but appreciate current info and user experience on the points above.

https://www.divephotoguide.com/underwater-photography-special-features/article/review-om-system-olympus-om-d-e-m10-mark-iv-backscatter-octo-housing/

should help address at least some of the questions :)

14 minutes ago, MatthewSullivan said:

https://www.divephotoguide.com/underwater-photography-special-features/article/review-om-system-olympus-om-d-e-m10-mark-iv-backscatter-octo-housing/

should help address at least some of the questions :)

Excellent - thanks @MatthewSullivan , really appreciate it!!

Added bonus - I know you are a very fair, realistic reviewer as well!

Edited 5 hours ago5 hr by ChipBPhoto

If I was him I'd be considering a used M4/3 setup.

I recently picked up a EM1-II in a Nauticam housing with lens and port for $1200usd, all it needed was a vacuum valve.

It's a generation old but I don't see cameras as having advanced much since then.