GEAR TESTS: OLYMPUS TOUGH TG-4

Robin Dodd Backscatter Team Member

While there were a number of popular and intriguing demo systems capable of making great underwater images, none was more popular or more requested than the Olympus TG-4 compact camera. It was certainly appreciated by all that Olympus and their excellent representative, Carlos, brought four complete TG-4 systems as demo gear to this year's Digital Shootout!

This little point-and-shoot is natively waterproof to 50 feet, and when placed in the PT-056 underwater housing it can go down to 130 feet. Paired with a single strobe it instantly becomes a very easy system to handle due to its compact size, and yet the ability to capture great images is not compromised at all. While there is a lack of manual exposure settings, the automatic shooting modes still manage to be smart enough to nail the shot more times than not. This made it great for those shooters who wanted simplicity over full creative control behind each shot. There is no denying that the final image quality does not hold up to the same standard as a full DSLR system, but for quick snapshots it works quite well.

The truly outstanding feature of the TG-4 is the built-in Microscope Mode. Without any need for a macro accessory lens, this camera can focus on the tiniest of subjects and capture enough vivid detail and color to rival that of even a full frame dedicated macro system. When I say tiny, I am not exaggerating. This camera is capable of focusing on a piece of dust resting on the lens. One downside is a very close focus distance, so some skittish critters may not stick around once you get the camera close enough to focus.

Whether you are looking for a macro-oriented compact system on a budget, a rugged camera ready for adventure, or just a back-up for the occasional macro subject that you can tuck into a BCD pocket, I strongly suggest you begin your search with the Olympus TG-4. It may not be a substitute for a DSLR macro system in terms of image control and quality, but for a compact camera at a reasonable price point it is hard to beat.

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