Reviews |Firmware upgrade to bring Bird detection to Olympus OM-D E-M1X

Firmware upgrade to bring Bird detection to Olympus OM-D E-M1X

Olympus announces that the OM-D E-M1X will get a firmware update that will introduce Bird detection to its Intelligent Subject Detection AF.
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Olympus has announced that the OM-D E-M1X will get a firmware update that will introduce Bird detection to its Intelligent Subject Detection AF.

This has been developed suing deep learning technology, which is based on artificial intelligence (AI).

Once installed, Bird detection will set the E-M1 X to prioritise the bird’s eye for focusing and tracking, enabling the photographer to concentrate on composing the images. If the eye is not detected, the camera will switch to detecting and tracking the head or body.

According to Olympus, Bird detection is capable of recognising a variety of birds and of all sizes. It’s also said to function in birds’ natural habitats where trees, plants and other obstructions can get between photographer and subject.

Further good news is that Bird detection can be used in Pro Capture mode for fast-frame rate shooting with minimal shutter lag.

Birds are detected across the entire AF area when shooting with all M.Zuiko
Digital lenses, including super telephoto lenses such as the new M.Zuiko Digital ED 150-400mm F4.5 TC1.25x IS PRO.

Raw video data output to the Atomos Ninja V HDR monitor recorder

The new firmware, which will be available from 3rd December, will also make a few functional improvements such as raw video data output.

In fact, 4K 30P/25P/24P and Cinema 4K 24P video recorded on the OM-D E-M1X or the OM-D E-M1 Mark III can be output as 12-bit raw data and recorded in
ProRes RAW format on the Atomos Ninja V HDR monitor recorder for professional-level video production.

The E-M1X’s video image stabilisation has been revised and a new focusing indicator display will make it possible to check the focusing direction and approximate focus position during manual focusing.