Olympus and Panasonic Instant Savings
Related: Olympus, Olympus M4/3, Olympus mirrorless, Olympus OM-D E-M5, Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II, Panasonic
Two days ago I noted the discontinuation of the Olympus E-5 DSLR. I expect a replacement sometime in September. To speculate a little: something that supports both Full Four Thirds (so that Olympus does not abandon the buyers of its superb Olympus SHG lenses), and Micro Four Thirds lenses.
The Olympus E-M5 design is well over a year old and is now due for a refresh. Which presumably means at the very least the incorporation of the superb Olympus VF-4 EVF, but perhaps some other improvements (dare one hope for a rethink of the insane menu system and a 20MP sensor and better button layout and size?).
So what does a camera manufacturer do to clear out the pipeline before new models? Offer discounts on the camera bodies and also the lenses.
Olympus savings
Olympus is offering up to $150 instant rebates on cameras and up to $150 on lenses. Expires August 17.
The Olympus E-M5 is down to $899 after rebate. Due to its 5-axis image stabilization, it remains my favorite camera for active video shooting.
The Olympus lenses I like the most out of this assortment are:
Panasonic savings
Note the very aggressive $400 instant savings. Expires August 17.
$400 instant savings on Panasonic G5 with 14-42mm and 45-150mm lens.
On a related note, Panasonic is shipping the new Lumix G 20mm f/1.7 II ASPH.
