OM SYSTEM Refreshes Tough System with TG-7 Camera

If you are an adventurer, you’ll need a camera that can handle the same rough conditions you can. This is where dedicated tough cameras come in handy. For those on the hunt for a new companion, OM SYSTEM has refreshed its offerings with the Tough TG-7 Digital Camera. 

What’s New

The TG series has been very successful, and I assume OM SYSTEM decided not to mess with that success when designing the TG-7. The list of updates is small, although there are some notable tweaks and additions.

• USB connection has been updated to USB-C

• Vertical video support

• Interval shooting now offers frame priority and exposure-smoothing settings

• A Construction Mode has been added, eliminating the need for a separate model

• Anti-slip grip pattern and the LCD now has improved color

• Support for optional RM-WR1 Wireless Remote Controller

General Specs

Now that we have listed the new features, let’s talk about the core specs and information. It is a very durable camera, equipped with a 12MP 1/2.3" BSI CMOS sensor that can capture great images and record video in 4K 30p. The 25-100mm equivalent f/2 lens is incredibly versatile. Not only is that a useful zoom range, but the lens is also capable of extreme macro photography where you can just about touch the camera to your subject. The f/2 aperture helps when working in dim lighting, as well.

In terms of durability, you can expect the TG-7 to survive drops of up to 7', work in freezing conditions as low as 14°F, and head underwater as deep as 50'. It’s also crushproof to 220 lbf, has an anti-fog lens, and is dustproof. You can take it almost anywhere.

The Tough Ecosystem

OM SYSTEM has a whole array of accessories to help you make the most of the TG-7. The best part is that if you have an older model, many of the existing products are still compatible with the TG-7.

For macro and close-up imaging where you want to add some light, there are two options: the FD-1 Flash Diffuser for flash photography and the LG-1 LED Light Guide for channeling the LED.

If you want a bit more flexibility than the built-in lens can provide, you’ll want to pick up the CLA-T01 Converter Adapter along with an appropriate converter. For some additional reach, you can get the TCON-T01 Tele Converter, which provides 1.7x conversion, effectively turning the 100mm maximum zoom into a 170mm equivalent. There are also two different fisheye converters. The FCON-T01 is a 0.74x converter and will provide that distinct distortion. The FCON-T02 is a 0.3x, which provides the option for either circular fisheye or diagonal fisheye, depending on the zoom settings. All these adapters can be used underwater.

To protect your TG-7 a bit more, you can pick up the PRF-D40.5 PRO Protect Filter. Or you can get the LBT-01 Lens Barrier to keep it completely sealed off from the elements. These will need the CLA-T01 Converter Adapter to work.

For carrying around the TG-7 there are several options. The CSCH-123 Sports Holder can keep the camera accessible and secured to a backpack strap or elsewhere. The CSCH-107 Camera Case is a simple full case that has a carabiner you can use to hook it up to your kit. If you are shooting around water, then you might want the CHS-09 Float Strap. The CSCH-128 Silicone Jacket will give you a touch more protection.

New to the TG series is support for a remote control. The RM-WR1 Wireless Remote Controller will, obviously, connect wirelessly and allow you to take photos and start recording videos from a distance.

Other Features

There are numerous other features packed into the TG-7. It works with the OI.Share app. It also offers a LOG recording function to log data such as GPS, air pressure, shooting direction, and temperature.

Pro Capture Mode returns, and can shoot at 10 fps before the shutter is even released, so you will never miss a shot. New to this model is interval shooting for up to 299 images, and the camera will create a Time Lapse movie. It can equalize exposure between frames, too.

Video is solid. It’ll record at up to 4K 30p and you can record Full HD resolution at 120 fps for slow motion. If you turn your camera vertically, it will properly record that data to make sure it plays back properly oriented on all devices.

More could be said about the TG-7, but it is certainly one of the best tough cameras available today.

What do you think about the TG-7? Interested in finding a rugged camera for your next adventure? Let us know in the Comments section, below.