Mark Ellington
OM SYSTEM Olympus 300mm F4.0 Telephoto Lens
Introduction
The OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 300mm F4.0 is a high-performance telephoto lens designed specifically for Micro Four Thirds system cameras. Manufactured by OM SYSTEM, a brand known for its innovative photographic solutions, this lens is ideal for wildlife, sports, and landscape photography where capturing distant subjects with clarity is paramount. Its weather-sealed design makes it a reliable companion for outdoor shooting in various conditions.
Product Overview
The OM SYSTEM Olympus 300mm F4.0 boasts a sleek and professional appearance, predominantly finished in a matte black exterior that exudes robustness and sophistication. The lens features a compact design for a telephoto lens of its caliber, making it relatively lightweight and portable for the length. A unique aspect of its design is the MF Clutch, which allows for quick switching between autofocus and manual focus, enhancing user control during shooting.
Key Features and Specifications
- Part Number: V311070BU000
- Model: V311070BU000
- Warranty: 1 year manufacturer warranty
- Color: Black
- Release Date: February 26, 2016
- Weather Sealed Design: Protects against dust and moisture
- MF Clutch: Quick transition between autofocus and manual focus
- L-Fn Button: Customizable function button for enhanced operation
- Compatibility: Works with tele-converters for extended reach
Experience Using the Product
During testing, the OM SYSTEM Olympus 300mm F4.0 lens performed exceptionally well across various scenarios. For wildlife photography, the lens’s sharpness and contrast were impressive, allowing for stunning captures of animals in their natural habitats. The weather-sealed design proved its worth during an unexpected drizzle, with no signs of moisture ingress during a long day of shooting.
In sports photography, the autofocus system was fast and reliable, tracking fast-moving subjects with precision. Switching to manual focus using the MF Clutch was seamless and intuitive, enabling fine-tuning of focus in moments where precision was crucial.
Landscape photography was also a delight; the lens provided beautiful bokeh and depth of field, making it easy to isolate subjects against vast backgrounds. However, it is important to note that its length requires a stable shooting platform or monopod for prolonged use, especially at slower shutter speeds.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent image quality with great sharpness and contrast
- Weather-sealed construction for shooting in adverse conditions
- Lightweight and compact for a telephoto lens
- Fast and accurate autofocus performance
- Versatile with compatibility for tele-converters
Cons:
- Higher price point at $2999.99
- Requires stable support for best results at long focal lengths
- Some users may find the learning curve steep for advanced features
Conclusion
In summary, the OM SYSTEM Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 300mm F4.0 is a top-tier telephoto lens that truly delivers on performance and versatility. Its combination of weather-sealing, exceptional optical quality, and user-friendly features make it a fantastic choice for professional photographers who demand reliability and quality. While its price may be a consideration, the investment is justified for those looking to elevate their photography game, particularly in challenging shooting environments. Overall, this lens is an outstanding addition to any Micro Four Thirds system and is highly recommended for serious enthusiasts and professionals alike.
