Bird photography is a genre that requires a long-range lens. Sometimes zooms, sometimes primes, many photographers choose between either based on their needs and what their wallet allows. If you have an OM System camera and want lenses that pair well, these options can truly be of help.
Olympus 100-400mm F5-6.3 IS
The 100-400mm was launched before Olympus was called OM System. Despite being a 2020 launch, the lens is quite small compared to the full frame equivalent models. There is a nice textured ring; it extends when zooming out, and it has multiple switches and buttons for better control. There is also some pro-grade weather sealing, and it has a weather rating of IPX1, which makes it withstand challenging weather with ease. There is also image stabilisation, which makes it easy to use handheld. And when it comes to its autofocus, we found it to be a “snappy performer.” You half-press the shutter, and everything comes into focus. Moreover, the photos are sharp, the colors are vivid, and the bokeh is pleasing. You get all this for under $1,000.
Olympus 150-400mm f4.5 Pro
The 150-400mm is quite innovative, offering a built-in teleconverter for your needs. It is also equivalent to 300-800mm, and you can use the TC when you really need it. The lens is certainly large, but it is quite weather-resistant. It is also quite well-balanced, has an internal zoom, and comes with image stabilisation. There are also multiple ways to focus with this lens, and it works well not just i bright light but also low light. The lens also does not need stopping down for bokeh, and you get the best results as is. The colors are nice in good lighting, and it is very sharp when wide open as well.
Olympus 300mm f4 IS PRO
The OM System 300mm f4 IS PRO offers a 600mm equivalent on the MFT body, has image stabilization, and is weather-resistant for rugged terrains. ” I took the lens to the beach recently and it was able to stand up to both sand and splashes from the Atlantic Ocean. But otherwise, it’s one of the best made Olympus lenses I’ve seen or tested,” we explained in the review. The autofocus has some challenges, especially when you have to pan. However, OM System makes up in the image quality department, with the company offering some truly creamy bokeh. The colors are also vivid, which means you get the best of both worlds.