OM System OM-1 - High Res Shot
High Res Shot - Image Quality Benefits
Up to 80 MP total resolution.
Improved sharpness and clarity.
Improved color fidelity.
Significantly less image noise.
High fidelity dynamic range is expanded by about 1 stop in the shadows.
Tripod High Res Shot
Electronic Shutter.
Uses pixel / sensor shift.
Composites 8 images.
Up to 80 Megapixels (10.368×7.776) total resolution.
Limited ISO range (from ISO 80 to ISO 1.600).
Fast composition.
Flash photography possible.
S-IS Off.
Notes
Use for still subjects only. Subject movement results in artifacts, blur or a failure to create a composite.
All camera vibrations have to be avoided.
Use a high-quality, stable tripod.
Set a self timer or use a Remote Trigger (RM-WR1).
ISO Settings
Best detail resolution at ISO 80 – limits the dynamic range in the highlights. Do not place the highlights above +2.3 EV -recommended: +2 EV.
Best overall fidelity at ISO 200.
Handheld High Res Shot
Electronic Shutter.
Utilizes frame-to-frame micro-variations.
Composites 12 images.
Up to 50 Megapixels (8.160×6.120) total resolution.
Full ISO range.
Slow composition (compared to tripod mode).
S-IS Auto.
Noise Reduction always off.
Notes
Use handheld or tripod-mounted.
Keep the camera as steady as possible.
Enable Handheld Assist if needed.
Handheld High Res Shot can compensate for micro-movements of subjects.
ISO Settings
ISO 200 to 1.600 ensures best image quality.
Image File Options
Resolution Options
25 MP
50 MP
80 MP (Tripod High Res Shot only)
File Options
JPEG: records a high resolution JPEG only.
RAW+JPEG: Records a high resolution JPEG, a high resolution RAW (.ORF) and a standard resolution RAW (.ORI with 20 MP).
Composite Failure
If the composition fails, a normal resolution file will be saved instead:
JPEG = 1x Standard JPEG
RAW+JPEG = 1x Standard Res RAW + 1x Standard Res JPEG
Expert Knowledge
Lens Choice
Use high performance lenses.
In-Lens Image Stabilization
Camera on a Tripod (both modes): Turn Off
Camera used handheld: Turn On when using long focal lengths (disables in-body I.S. automatically)
Exposure Metering
Highlights clip earlier. At ISO 200, avoid placing highlights above +3 EV.
Light Sources
Flickering light sources (fluorescent or LED lamps) impact image quality negatively.
If no alternative light sources are available, use shutter speeds of at least 1/100 or slower to mitigate the effect.
Total Exposure Time
Total exposure time (Handheld) = Shutter Speed x 12
Total exposure time (Tripod) = Shutter Speed x 8
Assume about 1/2 of a second as minimum total exposure time.
Do not use the results to set the exposure.
Dealing With Movement in the Shot
In general, avoid any movement in the frame.
If unavoidable, there are two options:
Option 1: Attempt to freeze the motion.
Use Handheld High Res Shot and set a shutter speed of at least 1/125.
Option 2: Incorporate motion blur
Use one of the two High Res Shot modes and set a slow shutter speed. Pick a setting that either results in natural blur or is long enough to eliminate the moving object from the frame.
Flash Photography
Tripod High Res Shot only.
Flash synchronization speed: 1/100
Flash output has to be set manually.
Notes
Compatible MicroFourThirds flash units will communicate their readiness to the camera.
When using a generic flash, set an appropriate charge time in the High Res Shot menu.
High Res Shot in Practice
Handheld High Res Shot for General Photography
Due to its reliability and ease-of-use, handheld High Res Shot is viable for general photography.
Handheld High Res Shot for Low Light Photography
If the situation allows, use Handheld High Res Shot instead of a low ISO - slow shutter speed combination.
Handheld High Res delivers higher fidelity, more sharpness and better details.
Tripod High Res Shot for Best Quality
Tripod High Res Shot delivers image quality for the most demanding photographic applications.
A professional, precise workflow is paramount to achieve best results.
Recommended for:
Reproduction of artworks and scientific photography
Product and still life photography
Architectural photography (interior and exterior)
Landscape Photography
Film Scanning
Both High Res Shot modes can be used to capture high resolution film scans.
Portrait Photography
Handheld High Res (do NOT use tripod mode)
Shutter speed 1/125 or faster.
The subject should not blink or move during the exposure.
For best consistency, the OM-1 should be mounted on a tripod.
If more mobility is required, a monopod is a practical compromise.
A high ISO setting can be used to achieve a film-like look with smooth gradation and rich tonal values.