There is Nothing "Micro" about Micro 4/3!

Dot's Diner at the Vintage Trailer Park in Bisbee, AZ  (click to enlarge)

M4/3 is a wonderful digital imaging format.  Everything about it makes sense to most of us.  I guess that is one of the reasons it is becoming so popular worldwide.

I really take exception to the name "Micro 4/3."  There is nothing "micro" about the format.  That name really does the format a disservice.  The only difference between 4/3 and Micro 4/3 is the lens mount to camera flange distance.  In other words, the lens sits closer to the sensor than it does in the original 4/3 format. The sensor is exactly the same size.  To me, Micro 4/3 is a condescending term, in my opinion, which leads one to think that the format is tiny and even inconsequential.  It is not.  It is a wonderful format with fabulous gear that produces excellent images.

So, what should we call it?  I vote for "Mirrorless 4/3!"  That accurately describes the difference between the two systems.  The original 4/3 cameras had mirror boxes and optical viewfinders as did (and does) digital SLRs.  M4/3 cameras have no viewfinder or an electronic viewfinder (EVF).  We can even use the same abbreviation: M4/3!

I think from now on I'll be calling this wonderful format Mirrorless 4/3 instead of the diminutive Micro 4/3. After all, it is a more accurate and better describes the difference.

Thanks for looking.  Enjoy!

Dennis Mook

Many of my images can be found at www.dennismook.com.  Please pay it a visit.  I add new images regularly.  Thank you.


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