Overview
The Olympus OM 35-70mm f4 is a versatile lens that has been a favorite among photographers for its exceptional performance and build quality. Designed for Olympus OM system cameras, this lens offers a wide-angle to telephoto zoom range, making it suitable for a variety of photography genres, from landscapes to portraits.
Build and Design
The Olympus OM 35-70mm f4 is a classic lens that boasts a solid build quality. Made of metal, it feels robust and durable in the hand. The lens features a manual focus ring and a zoom ring, both of which are smooth and well-damped. The lens also comes with a lens hood and a lens cap, which are essential accessories for protecting the lens from scratches and dust.
Optical Performance
One of the standout features of the Olympus OM 35-70mm f4 is its exceptional optical performance. The lens is equipped with 6 elements in 5 groups, including 2 aspherical elements, which help to minimize aberrations and produce sharp, clear images. The lens also has a minimum focusing distance of 0.5 meters, which is great for close-up photography.
| Aperture | Maximum | Minimum |
|---|---|---|
| Aperture Range | f4 | f22 |
| Filter Size | 49mm | N/A |
| Maximum Magnification | 0.21x | N/A |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 0.5 meters | N/A |
Image Quality
The Olympus OM 35-70mm f4 delivers excellent image quality, with sharp edges and minimal distortion. The lens is particularly well-suited for landscapes, as it produces vibrant colors and crisp details. The lens also performs well in low-light conditions, thanks to its fast maximum aperture of f4.
Autofocus Performance
The Olympus OM 35-70mm f4 features a manual focus system, which means that autofocus is not available. However, the manual focus ring is smooth and precise, making it easy to achieve the desired focus. This lens is best suited for photographers who prefer manual focus or who are comfortable with the process.
Compatibility
The Olympus OM 35-70mm f4 is designed for Olympus OM system cameras, which are no longer in production. However, it can still be used with modern Olympus cameras that have an OM mount adapter. This lens is also compatible with other brands of cameras that have an OM mount adapter, although some limitations may apply.
Conclusion
The Olympus OM 35-70mm f4 is a highly regarded lens that offers exceptional build quality, optical performance, and image quality. While it may not be the most versatile lens on the market, its wide-angle to telephoto zoom range and classic design make it a great choice for photographers who are looking for a lens that can handle a variety of photography genres. Whether you’re a landscape photographer or a portrait shooter, the Olympus OM 35-70mm f4 is a lens that is worth considering.