Olympus OM-10: A Beginner's Camera

The camera purchased in 1997 as a backup for the OM-2 was a low-cost OM-10. I didn't expect much from this camera other than it can be used if the OM-2 cameras failed, especially on journey's to Italy. When I brought the camera to Italy, it failed. Upon return, it was designated to a dresser drawer and rested there for 14 years. 

Recently, I took the OM-10 out of its darken enclave. I cleaned the battery compartment and added two new batteries. Surprisingly, it worked. I attached a “manual adapter” and now the camera can be used similar to an old Pentax K1000, beginner's camera, manual only or aperture preferred.

I tested the various lenses and found out that the intermittent lens jam of the OM-2 never became an issue with the OM-10. The more I played with the OM-10 the more I liked it. It can still be set for aperture preferred which is what I often use for my dSLR cameras. Now the 55mm f/1.2 lens has found a partner in the OM-10 and in conjunction, it actually works better than the OM-2. I am pleasantly surprised.

The Olympus OM-10 can be found in garage sales, eBay, and stores selling used 35mm cameras. Usually, they are found with the standard 50mm f/1.8 lens, which is by the way very good glass. And what the camera is capable in terms of its function in comparison to cost, I believe it's the best bang-for-the-buck. On KEH.com, a used OM-10 goes for $35.00 and it fits the entire set of Zuiko lenses, which can also be easily obtained.

Olympus introduced the OM family of SLRs back in 1972, the first being the M-1. The release caused quite a stir because of its smallness and lightness. In comparison, the Nikon F-series were huge, bulky and heavy. Olympus then produced the OM-1, OM-2, OM-3, and OM-4 models with various models in between. The OM-10 was first released in 1979 and completed its production in 1987. It was geared up to be an entry-level consumer model. Certainly Olympus produced this model with the intent of lower production cost, and it became quite a success. Perhaps the abundant supply of the OM-10 is the reason that so many can be easily found in the used market.

One of the features or the lack there of that causes photographers to obtain the more expensive OM models is that the OM-10 does not have a manual mode. Some photographers cannot work a camera without this function. In difficult lighting situations or with electronic flash, manual mode is preferred. I know that I must have manual mode. Olympus realized that an optional “manual adapter” would be necessary.

Although, the OM-10 is lighter than other OM-series cameras, the cost cutting has impacted the dampening system, causing the camera to be noisier and no so quiet as the OM-2. Also, the lack of dampening creates more of a kick-back or internal bouncing of the mirror. This can result in blur effects at low shutter speeds, more so than the higher quality OM-series cameras. With the 55mm f/1.2, shutter speeds can be increased and camera shake effect is eliminated.

Other than that, The lightweight OM-10 is an awesome little camera, and is worth serious consideration for a beginner. One can easily upgrade to an OM-2 or higher model, using the full array of Zuiko lenses and 3^rd party lenses. For the advanced or professional photographer, the OM-10 makes an excellent backup. The OM-10 may not be considered a collectors piece, but it's now one of my best 35mm cameras.