OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 90mm F3.5 Macro IS Pro

Micro Four Thirds (MFT/M43)

Review

The OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 90mm F3.5 Macro IS Pro lens is a standout option for Micro Four Thirds users who are serious about macro photography. This lens, designed for those who want to capture intricate details in small subjects, has several features that make it a compelling choice.

Build Quality and Design

The build quality of the M.Zuiko 90mm is exceptional. Made with a robust metal chassis, it feels solid in hand while still being relatively lightweight for its focal length. The lens also boasts a weather-sealed construction, which provides peace of mind for those who may venture into challenging shooting conditions. The compact size of the lens is another advantage, ensuring portability without compromising performance.

Optical Performance

Optically, the M.Zuiko 90mm F3.5 Macro IS Pro delivers outstanding results. The lens features a well-rounded design that minimizes aberrations, and it achieves sharpness even at wider apertures. The nine-blade diaphragm contributes to beautiful bokeh, allowing for creamy background separation that can elevate your macro shots dramatically. With a minimum focusing distance of just 0.25 meters, you can get incredibly close to your subjects, capturing them in stunning detail.

Image Stabilization

One of the highlight features of this lens is its built-in image stabilization (IS). Combined with the stabilization systems present in many Micro Four Thirds cameras, this lends itself well to shooting handheld, which is often a necessity in macro photography. It significantly reduces the chance of camera shake when shooting at slower shutter speeds, allowing for more flexibility in various lighting conditions.

Autofocus Performance

The autofocus system of the M.Zuiko 90mm is fast and reliable, making it suitable not just for static macro subjects but also for shooting small, moving subjects. The linear motor used in its construction aids in providing smooth and accurate focusing, which can be particularly useful for wildlife or insect photography.

Versatility

While primarily designed as a macro lens, the 90mm can also serve as a portrait lens thanks to its focal length. The flattering compression and ability to blur out backgrounds make it a versatile option for any photographer’s kit. Additionally, it performs well in low-light situations, allowing for creative opportunities beyond just macro photography.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional build quality with weather-sealing
• Outstanding optical performance with sharp images and beautiful bokeh
• Effective image stabilization for handheld shooting
• Fast and reliable autofocus system
• Versatile enough for portraits and general photography

Cons

• Some may find the price point to be on the higher side, especially for amateur photographers
• Limited to a maximum aperture of F3.5 may be a drawback for some who prefer wider apertures

Verdict

Overall, the OM System M.Zuiko Digital ED 90mm F3.5 Macro IS Pro is a top-notch lens for those interested in macro photography on the Micro Four Thirds system. Its combination of excellent optics, robust build, and effective image stabilization makes it a worthy investment. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or an enthusiastic hobbyist, this lens will serve you well in capturing the minuscule details of the world around you.