In the history of the photo industry, we have had instances where some cameras have a cult following. For example, the Fujifilm X-Pro 3, Polaroid cameras, the Leica M series, the Canon 5D series, and the Sony a6000 lineup have seen some cameras excelling more than others. However, it is often noted that despite the massive success of some models, companies often find it challenging to give us a worthy successor with newer iterations. For instance, the Fujifilm X100VI did not come close to the X100V. On the other hand, the Olympus PEN F never got a successor. While many have given up on the camera, a new report suggests that OM System has not entirely forgotten about the device.
In a new interview with Imaging Resource (via Digital Camera Info), Hiroki Koyama, Director, Product Planning, OM System, said the company does want to simply “replicate” the PEN F, but rather they need to “carefully consider what makes it so beloved as we explore new ways to deliver an enjoyable photographic experience.” The Director also added that the company is aware that PEN F is much loved by many, from its rangefinder design to profile controls, and reiterated that the OM-3, in no way, is the successor to the PEN F.
In addition, Kazuhiro Togashi, Vice President of Brand Strategy and Product Planning, OM System, added that PEN F will be an “OM System brand, not the Olympus brand.” At the moment, the company is still thinking about “what concept” would be better for the new camera. When that is clear, they will consider whether the design will be similar to the PEN F or E-P7. “The PEN series is very important for us, so we are indeed thinking about a successor model for the PEN series.”
It is also unclear when we will see any update from the company about the PEN F, but our hope is it is now rather than later, as rangefinder cameras and the PEN F itself are both trending. As we hinted in one of the articles, APS-C cameras are still better than MFT sensors, with many preferring high-sensor cameras, such as the Zf, over an MFT body. In addition, it has been nearly a decade since OM System did anything with this lineup, which makes it appear that they may not be as serious as we hoped them to be.
However, if the PEN F successor does come around, there are a few things we wish it would contain:
- AI detection for faces and animals. This will be helpful to many, including street and portrait photographers. AI detection will also help to lock in on the subject faster, which will increase the overall speed. Furthermore, many OM Systems high-end cameras have it, so why not this one too?
- Weather resistance is a must. The PEN F is a beautiful camera, but the lack of weather resistance will make anyone a but hesitant to take it outdoors. Furthermore, why must a compact camera lack these features, especially when people pay hundreds of dollars for the product?
- A Kodak sensor, please. Kodak made CCD sensors for the Leica M9, which was loved by many. Similarly, having a sensor by them will only help PEN F get the film look, which will be more authentic than relying on Sony sensors.
- More art filters. This is a must for a new PEN F. We don’t mean old school presets, but also unique ones like silver gelatin, which is seen in analog. The appeal of PEN F is the film-like body, which must also translate into the images.
- Adding a joystick would also help users navigate the camera far more easily than simply relying on the buttons.
- Dual card slots are another must, since many prefer to use different cards for their work.
- A lens with image stabilisation will be handy to hybrid shooters, and also make it easy to shoot in low light.
- A better battery life is also a must, especially since people who use this model are likely to take it everywhere they go.
- A decent price point is what we all want. The camera has a lot going for it, but often, a huge price tag ruins it from being liked by all.
