Captured with the "standard" OM System Tough TG-7, this image showcases an underdiscussed characteristic of this pocket-sized camera that's currently overlooked by many users
In the world of photography, capturing the intricate details of the smallest subjects can be a challenge. However, the OM System Tough TG-7 is here to change that, offering an impressive macro capability that sets it apart in its price range.
The photo above showcases the TG-7's macro prowess, featuring a close-up of a luna moth's wing. This compact camera is not just waterproof but also boasts a focus stacking mode that stacks photos together to keep more of the image in focus, and a microscopic macro mode, equivalent to a 7x macro on a full-frame camera. This means you can get exceptionally close to tiny subjects, like snowflakes, with ease.
Hillary K. Grigonis, a renowned photographer and journalist, has had the opportunity to test the TG-7. Grigonis, who leads the US coverage for Digital Camera World and has over a decade of experience writing about cameras and technology, praises the TG-7 for its performance in macro photography.
Grigonis is a former Nikon shooter and a current Fujifilm user, but has tested a wide range of cameras and lenses across multiple brands. Her work has appeared in various publications, including Business Insider, Digital Trends, Pocket-lint, Rangefinder, The Phoblographer, and more.
The TG-7's price, at $549 / £449 / AU$759, makes it a budget-friendly option that can fit in a pocket. Compared to macro mirrorless lenses, which tend to be expensive and only a few go beyond 1:1 or 1X, the TG-7 offers a more accessible solution for capturing stunning macro images.
However, for those seeking a more traditional macro photography experience with advanced focus stacking capabilities, the OM-D E-M1 series (such as E-M1 Mark II, Mark III, and OM-1 models) from Olympus/OM System could be a better fit. These mirrorless cameras, paired with macro lenses like the M.Zuiko 60mm F2.8, offer professional-grade options with integrated native stacking features.
It's important to note that the focus stacking mode on the TG-7 is done in-camera, but the focus bracketing mode allows photographers to build the focus stack themselves in Photoshop and other editing programs.
For those interested in exploring the best cameras for macro photography and the best macro lenses, the article provides links to help you on your journey. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or a beginner, the OM System Tough TG-7 and the OM-D E-M1 series offer exciting possibilities for capturing the beauty of the microscopic world.
- The OM System Tough TG-7, showcased with a luna moth's wing, demonstrates an impressive macro capability, even for the smallest subjects like snowflakes.
- Hillary K. Grigonis, a reporter for Digital Camera World, praises the TG-7 for its performance in macro photography, including its focus stacking mode.
- With a price of $549 / £449 / AU$759, the TG-7 is a budget-friendly option, offering a more accessible macro solution compared to macro mirrorless lenses.
- Olympus/OM System's OM-D E-M1 series, such as the E-M1 Mark II, Mark III, and OM-1 models, provide professional-grade mirrorless cameras for advanced focus stacking capabilities.
- The focus stacking mode on the TG-7 is done in-camera, but photographers can use the focus bracketing mode to build the focus stack themselves in programs like Photoshop.
- Grigonis has had experience with numerous camera brands and her work has been featured in publications like Business Insider, Digital Trends, Pocket-lint, Rangefinder, and The Phoblographer.
- The best cameras and macro lenses for photography are discussed in the linked article, making it a valuable resource for both seasoned photographers and beginners.
- The TG-7 offers a lens with an equivalent 7x macro capability on a full-frame camera, making it a standout choice in its price range for capturing intricate macro shots.
- Technology enthusiasts and smartphone users interested in gadgets and photography news will find relevant articles on various topics, including video, drones, and tutorials.
