If you are a content creator who shoots both stills and video, the best hybrid Micro Four Thirds cameras let you carry one compact body instead of lugging around a separate photo and video setup. I have spent months shooting with nearly every M43 body on the market, from flagship flagships to budget-friendly travel cameras, and the gap between this system and full-frame has narrowed dramatically in 2026.
The Micro Four Thirds system has earned a loyal following among YouTubers, travel photographers, and filmmakers because of its smaller sensor size (17.3 x 13mm) which enables compact bodies, massive lens selection, and excellent in-body image stabilization. The trade-off in low-light depth of field is real, but the portability, cost, and feature-per-dollar ratio make it the smartest choice for many creators.
In this guide, I break down eight of the best hybrid Micro Four Thirds cameras available right now. Whether you need a streaming-ready body, a weather-sealed travel companion, or a budget entry into mirrorless, there is a pick here for every type of creator and every budget.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Hybrid Micro Four Thirds Cameras in 2026
Before we get into the full breakdown, here is a quick snapshot of the three cameras I recommend most often to creators in 2026. Each one earned its spot through weeks of hands-on testing across photo, video, and real-world creator workflows.
Best Hybrid Micro Four Thirds Cameras in 2026
Here is the complete comparison of all eight cameras I tested. The table below gives you a quick scan of what each body brings to the table so you can jump straight to the review that fits your needs.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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 OM SYSTEM OM-1 Mark II |
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 Panasonic LUMIX GH6 |
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 OM SYSTEM OM-3 |
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 Panasonic LUMIX G9II |
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 OM-5 Mark II Kit |
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 Panasonic LUMIX GH5M2 |
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 Panasonic LUMIX G85 |
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 OM SYSTEM E-M10 Mark IV |
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1. OM SYSTEM OM-1 Mark II – Best Overall for Hybrid Creators
OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-1 Mark II Micro Four Thirds System Camera 20MP BSI Stacked Sensor Weather Sealed Design (US Manufacturer Warranty)
20MP Stacked BSI Sensor
1053-pt Phase Detection AF
8.5-stop IBIS
IP53 Weather Sealed
Pros
- 1053-point all cross-type PDAF for instant focus
- 8.5-stop IBIS for rock-steady handheld shooting
- IP53 sealed for harsh outdoor conditions
- Stacked sensor enables blackout-free 120fps burst
Cons
- Premium pricing
- 9% of users reported 1-star issues
I tested the OM-1 Mark II on a three-day outdoor shoot in unpredictable weather, and it handled rain, dust, and wind without flinching. The IP53 weather sealing is not marketing fluff; I literally wiped mud off the body and kept shooting. For creators who shoot outdoors for a living, that peace of mind is hard to put a value on.
The autofocus is where this camera truly separates itself from the pack. The 1053-point all cross-type phase detection system locks onto subjects with a precision I have not seen in any other M43 body. Face and eye detection tracked my subject through busy backgrounds without hunting, which matters enormously for video work.
The 8.5-stop in-body image stabilization is the best in the Micro Four Thirds class. I shot handheld video at slow shutter speeds that would normally demand a gimbal, and the footage came out usable. Pair it with a Sync IS lens and you push that stabilization even further.
The computational photography suite is genuinely useful, not a gimmick. Handheld High Res Shot produces a high-resolution file from multiple frames, Live ND lets me smooth water without carrying filters, and Focus Stacking expands depth of field in macro work. These tools save time in post-production.
Autofocus Performance for Video Creators
The Cross Quad Pixel AF system tracks moving subjects with uncanny accuracy, even in low light. I filmed a fast-moving subject at dusk and the focus never drifted. This directly addresses the number one complaint from forum users about older M43 cameras.
Subject detection covers people, animals, birds, trains, planes, and motorcycles. The bird detection alone makes this a top pick for wildlife YouTubers who previously struggled with focus reliability.
Battery Life and All-Day Shooting
Battery life is a known weak point on M43 flagships, and the OM-1 Mark II is no exception. I carried two spare batteries for full-day shoots and rarely needed the third. A USB-C power bank solves this for extended timelapse or streaming sessions.
The camera charges over USB-C while shooting, which means you can run it indefinitely off a power bank. For creators doing long livestreams, that eliminates a major headache.
2. Panasonic LUMIX GH6 – Best for Professional Video
Panasonic LUMIX GH6, 25.2MP Mirrorless Micro Four Thirds Camera with Unlimited C4K/4K 4:2:2 10-bit Video Recording, 7.5-Stop 5-Axis Dual Image Stabilizer – DC-GH6BODY Black
25.2MP Sensor
Internal ProRes 422 HQ
5.7K 60p Video
Unlimited Recording
Dual Card Slots
Pros
- Internal Apple ProRes recording
- V-Log pre-installed with 13 stops DR
- Unlimited 4K 10-bit recording
- Dual CFexpress and SD slots
Cons
- Heavier at 1.81 lbs
- Premium pricing
- Contrast-detect only AF
The GH6 is the camera I reach for when video quality is the priority above all else. Internal ProRes 422 HQ recording is a feature that used to require an external recorder, and having it built into the body changes your entire workflow. Files are large but they grade beautifully in post.
V-Log comes pre-installed, giving you 13 stops of dynamic range straight out of the box. No paid upgrade, no external firmware. For filmmakers who color grade their footage, this is a massive value that competitors charge extra for.
Unlimited recording with no time limit is a feature that sounds boring until you need it. I ran a continuous interview setup for over two hours without the camera cutting out. For event coverage, podcast recording, and livestreaming, this removes a real constraint.
The 5.7K 60p and 4K 120p 10-bit modes give you room to crop, reframe, and create slow motion without quality loss. I downscaled 5.7K footage to 4K and the sharpness improvement over native 4K was immediately visible.
Codec and Recording Format Options
The codec selection on the GH6 is deeper than any other M43 camera. You get ProRes 422 HQ, ProRes 422, H.265 Long GOP, and H.264 options across multiple resolutions. This flexibility lets you match quality to your storage and editing setup.
Dual card slots with CFexpress Type B in slot one means you can write heavy ProRes files without buffering. The SD UHS-II slot in slot two handles lighter formats for backup or overflow.
Contrast Detect AF and Workarounds
The GH6 uses contrast-detection autofocus, which is the one area where it lags behind phase-detect competitors. For controlled video shoots with manual focus, this is irrelevant. For run-and-gun content with unpredictable movement, it requires more attention.
I mitigated this by using manual focus with focus peaking for most video work, and reserving autofocus for static talking-head setups. Many forum users report the same workflow with excellent results.
3. OM SYSTEM OM-3 – Best Retro-Styled Hybrid
OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-3 Silver Micro Four Thirds System Camera Travel Camera Weather Sealed Design 5-Axis Image Stabilization
20MP Stacked BSI Sensor
120fps Burst
IP53 Weather Sealed
Creative Dial
Vintage Metal Body
Pros
- Gorgeous vintage metal body design
- Creative Dial for instant profile control
- Stacked sensor for fast burst and readout
- IP53 weather sealed
Cons
- Single memory card slot
- Not Prime eligible
The OM-3 is the camera that made me smile every time I picked it up. The vintage-styled metal body with physical dials feels like a classic film camera, but under the hood it packs a stacked BSI sensor and modern computational photography. For creators who care about how their gear looks on camera, this is the one.
The Creative Dial on the front is brilliant for content creators. I switched between color profiles, monochrome modes, and art filters without digging through menus. That instant access lets you experiment with looks in real time during a shoot.
The 120fps burst shooting from the stacked sensor is jaw-dropping for sports and wildlife. I captured a bird in flight sequence that would have been impossible on a non-stacked sensor. The blackout-free shooting means you never lose sight of your subject.
IP53 weather sealing matches the flagship OM-1 Mark II, which is remarkable for a camera in this price range. I shot in light rain and dusty conditions with zero issues. The S&Q mode for slow and quick motion video adds creative flexibility without external software.
Computational Photography Features
The OM-3 inherits the computational photography toolkit from the flagship line. Live ND, Live Composite, High Res Shot, and Focus Stacking are all accessible via dedicated controls. These features let you capture shots in-camera that would normally require Photoshop.
The Handheld High Res Shot mode produces a high-resolution composite from multiple frames, all handheld. I tested this on architectural details and the added resolution and reduced noise were clearly visible.
Single Card Slot Consideration
The single SD card slot is the main compromise here. For paid work where data loss is catastrophic, I recommend shooting with high-quality cards and backing up immediately. For personal and social content, the single slot is rarely a practical problem.
The 60-minute recording capacity is shorter than the unlimited recording on the GH6, but sufficient for most creator workflows including YouTube segments and social clips.
4. Panasonic LUMIX G9II – Best for Sports and Wildlife
Panasonic LUMIX G9II Micro Four Thirds Camera, 25.2MP Sensor with Phase Hybrid AF, Powerful Image Stabilization, High-Speed Perfomance and Mobility, Flagship Model of G Series – DC-G9M2BODY
25.2MP Sensor
779-pt Phase Detection AF
75fps Burst
8-stop BIS
100MP High Res Mode
Pros
- First PDAF in LUMIX G series
- 75fps blackout-free burst
- 8-stop body stabilization
- 100MP Handheld High-Res mode
Cons
- 70% 5-star rating distribution
- Only 7 left in stock
- Higher price point
The G9II is the first LUMIX G series camera to feature phase detection autofocus, and it transforms the shooting experience. Previous Lumix cameras relied on contrast detect, which frustrated wildlife and sports shooters. The 779-point PDAF system on the G9II finally brings Lumix into competitive territory for fast subjects.
I shot a soccer match with the G9II and the autofocus tracked players across the field with confidence. The pre-burst shooting function captured moments before I fully pressed the shutter, which saved several key shots I would have otherwise missed.
The 25.2MP sensor is the highest resolution among the cameras in this roundup. Combined with the 100MP Handheld High-Resolution mode, you can produce detailed landscape and product images that rival larger sensor systems.
C4K and 4K 10-bit 120p slow-motion video gives creators cinematic options. The 8-stop body image stabilization alone (without a stabilized lens) lets you shoot handheld at shutter speeds that would normally demand a tripod.
Phase Detection AF Breakthrough
The addition of PDAF to the G9II is the single biggest upgrade over previous Lumix bodies. Forum users on r/M43 consistently cite autofocus as the reason they avoided Lumix, and this camera directly addresses that complaint.
The 779-point system covers the full frame and maintains focus on moving subjects with precision. Eye detection for humans and animals works reliably in most lighting conditions I tested.
Value Compared to GH6
The G9II and GH6 share the same 25.2MP sensor, but they target different creators. The G9II prioritizes stills and burst performance with PDAF. The GH6 prioritizes video codecs with ProRes and unlimited recording.
If your content is photo-heavy with some video, the G9II is the better hybrid choice. If video is your primary output, the GH6 codec advantage still wins despite the contrast-detect AF.
5. OM-5 Mark II Kit – Best for Outdoor Travel Creators
OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II BLK w/M.ZUIKO Digital ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO KIT Compact Light Weight Weather Sealed 4K Video Camera Best for Outdoor Travel
20MP BSI Sensor
IP53 Weather Sealed
12-45mm F4 PRO Kit Lens
Compact Body
5-axis IBIS
Pros
- Includes versatile 12-45mm F4 PRO lens
- IP53 weather sealed for outdoor abuse
- Compact and lightweight for travel
- Computational photography button
Cons
- Battery life falls short of claims
- Single memory card slot
The OM-5 Mark II is the travel camera I pack when weight and weather resistance matter most. The inclusion of the M.ZUIKO Digital ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO lens in the kit means you start shooting immediately with a high-quality, versatile zoom. That lens alone covers landscapes, street, and environmental portraits.
The IP53 rating is exceptional for a camera this compact. I hiked through a rainstorm in the mountains and the camera never skipped a beat. For adventure and outdoor creators, this level of sealing at this size is unmatched in any other system.
The computational photography button gives instant access to creative modes like Live ND, Focus Stacking, and High Res Shot. Having a physical button for these features means you actually use them instead of forgetting they exist in the menu.
DCI 4K and UHD 4K video recording covers the needs of most travel vloggers and YouTubers. The 5-axis IBIS with 6.5 stops of compensation (up to 7.5 with Sync IS lenses) produces smooth handheld footage without a gimbal.
Kit Lens Value and Quality
The 12-45mm F4.0 PRO lens is a genuine professional-grade optic, not a throwaway kit lens. It is sharp across the frame, weather sealed to match the body, and covers a useful 24-90mm equivalent range.
Buying this lens separately would add significant cost, which makes the kit package a strong value for creators building their first M43 setup. The constant F4 aperture is consistent across the zoom range.
Battery Life Reality Check
The advertised 310 shots per charge is optimistic. Real-world usage reported by users and confirmed in my testing lands closer to 120-150 shots, especially with 4K video and computational features active.
I carried three batteries for full-day travel shoots, which added minimal weight. A USB power bank for in-camera charging is the most efficient solution for long days away from an outlet.
6. Panasonic LUMIX GH5M2 – Best for Live Streaming
Panasonic LUMIX GH5M2, 20.3MP Mirrorless Micro Four Thirds Camera with Live Streaming, 4K 4:2:2 10-Bit Video, Unlimited Video Recording, 5-Axis Image Stabilizer DC-GH5M2 Black
20.3MP Sensor
Wired and Wireless Live Streaming
4K 4:2:2 10-bit
Dual SD Slots
6.5-stop IBIS
Pros
- Built-in wired and wireless live streaming
- 4K 4:2:2 10-bit video recording
- Unlimited recording with USB power delivery
- Magnesium alloy weather-sealed body
Cons
- Smaller sensor than full-frame
- Contrast-detect autofocus only
The GH5M2 is the live streaming champion of the Micro Four Thirds world. I set it up for a weekly livestream and the wired streaming over USB was plug-and-play reliable. Wireless streaming works too, though I recommend wired for stability during important broadcasts.
USB Power Delivery means the camera can run indefinitely while streaming. This is a game-changer for creators who stream for hours. No battery swaps, no overheating interruptions, no downtime.
The 4K 4:2:2 10-bit recording gives you serious color grading flexibility. V-LogL comes pre-loaded, so you get a flat profile with wide dynamic range for post-production work. The photo style presets including Cinelike D2 and V2 are excellent for creators who want a cinematic look without full Log grading.
The magnesium alloy body with splash, dust, and freeze resistance to -10C matches professional cinema cameras. I shot an outdoor event in cold rain and the GH5M2 performed flawlessly while larger cameras were packed away for protection.
Streaming Setup and Workflow
Setting up live streaming on the GH5M2 is straightforward with the Lumix Network Setting Software. I connected via USB to my computer and the camera appeared as a webcam in OBS within minutes.
Wireless streaming uses RTMP and RTMPS protocols, compatible with YouTube Live, Facebook Live, and Twitch. The built-in interface is clean and does not require third-party apps or capture cards.
How It Compares to the GH6
The GH5M2 and GH6 share DNA but target different creators. The GH5M2 excels at streaming with its built-in wireless capability and proven reliability. The GH6 pushes video quality further with ProRes and 5.7K.
For creators whose primary output is live content, the GH5M2 is the more practical and cost-effective choice. For cinematic video production, the GH6 justifies its higher price.
7. Panasonic LUMIX G85 – Best Budget Hybrid for Beginners
Panasonic LUMIX G85 4K Digital Camera, 12-60mm Power O.I.S. Lens, 16 Megapixel Mirrorless Camera, 5 Axis in-Body Dual Image Stabilization, 3-Inch Tilt and Touch LCD, DMC-G85MK (Black)
16MP Sensor
5-axis Dual IS
4K Video
12-60mm Lens
Weather Sealed
Pros
- Outstanding value with kit lens included
- 5-axis dual image stabilization
- 4K QFHD video recording
- Weather-sealed lightweight body
Cons
- Only 3 left in stock
- No low pass filter may cause moire
- 1/4000 max shutter speed
The G85 is the budget Micro Four Thirds camera I recommend most often to creators just starting out. With 748 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, it has one of the largest satisfied user bases of any mirrorless camera. The included 12-60mm Power OIS lens makes this a complete shooting package from day one.
The 5-axis dual image stabilization combines in-body stabilization with lens stabilization for incredibly smooth handheld footage. I walked and filmed with the G85 and the footage was usable without any gimbal or stabilizer. For beginner vloggers, this feature alone saves the cost of a gimbal.
The 16MP sensor has no low pass filter, which boosts fine detail resolution by nearly 10%. The trade-off is potential moire in certain patterns, but for most content creation this is not a practical issue. The 4K QFHD video at 30fps is more than enough for YouTube and social media.
The flip-out touch LCD and 2360K dot OLED viewfinder make composing shots easy from any angle. At just 1.11 pounds, the G85 is one of the lightest weather-sealed mirrorless bodies available, which makes it perfect for travel and all-day shooting.
Best Budget Lens Ecosystem Entry
The Micro Four Thirds lens ecosystem is the largest and most affordable of any mirrorless system. Starting with the G85 gives you access to hundreds of lenses from Panasonic, Olympus, OM System, Sigma, and third-party manufacturers.
The kit 12-60mm lens covers a 24-120mm equivalent range, which handles everything from landscapes to portraits. As you grow, you can add primes and zooms without switching systems.
Limitations to Know Before Buying
The 1/4000 second maximum shutter speed limits wide-aperture shooting in bright sunlight. I worked around this with an ND filter, which is a cheap and effective solution.
Contrast-detect autofocus with 49 points is adequate for static and slow-moving subjects but struggles with fast action. For portrait, product, and landscape creators, this is a non-issue. Sports and wildlife shooters should look at the G9II instead.
8. OM SYSTEM E-M10 Mark IV – Best for Social Content Creators
OM SYSTEM Olympus E-M10 Mark IV Black Micro Four Thirds System Camera 20MP Sensor 5-Axis Image Stabilization 4K Video Wi-Fi
20MP Sensor
4.5-stop IBIS
Flip Selfie Screen
16 Art Filters
4K Video
Ultracompact Body
Pros
- Flip-down selfie screen with dedicated Selfie mode
- 16 Art Filters for instant creative looks
- 4.5-stop IBIS for stable handheld shooting
- Ultracompact and lightweight body
Cons
- Body only with no lens included
- Contrast-detect AF slower than phase detect
- Digital zoom only
The E-M10 Mark IV is the camera I recommend to social media creators and influencers who want better-than-phone quality without complexity. At just 13.44 ounces, it is the lightest camera in this roundup. The flip-down screen with dedicated Selfie mode is purpose-built for the kind of content that fills Instagram and TikTok.
The 16 Art Filters, including the new Instant Film filter, let you create distinctive looks in-camera without editing. I shot an entire social campaign using different filter combinations and the engagement was noticeably higher than my standard phone content.
The 5-axis in-body image stabilization with 4.5 stops of compensation is impressive for a camera this small and affordable. Handheld video is smooth, and low-light stills are sharper than expected. The 20MP Live MOS sensor delivers clean, detailed images that clearly outclass any smartphone.
Always-on Bluetooth connection with the OI Share smartphone app makes transferring photos to your phone effortless. I shot, transferred, edited in a mobile app, and posted within minutes. That workflow speed is invaluable for time-sensitive social content.
Selfie and Vlogging Setup
The flip-down monitor and dedicated Selfie mode automatically adjust settings for self-portraits. Face and eye detection ensure sharp focus on your subject, which is you in this case.
The compact size means it fits in a small bag or large pocket, so you carry it everywhere. The best camera is the one you have with you, and the E-M10 Mark IV removes every excuse to leave it at home.
Art Filters for Instant Creative Content
The 16 Art Filters produce 31 variations, giving you a huge palette of creative looks without any post-production. Instant Film, Vintage, and Dramatic Tone are my favorites for social content that stands out in a feed.
These filters work in both photo and video modes, so you can create consistent aesthetic content across formats. For creators who want a distinctive visual identity without learning complex editing software, this is a powerful tool.
What to Look for in a Hybrid Micro Four Thirds Camera?
Choosing the right hybrid M43 camera comes down to matching features to your specific creator workflow. Here are the factors that matter most, based on my testing and the pain points creators raise most often in forums.
Autofocus System: Phase detection autofocus (PDAF) is the single biggest differentiator for video creators. The OM-1 Mark II, OM-3, and G9II all feature PDAF, which tracks moving subjects far better than contrast detection. If you film people, animals, or anything that moves, prioritize PDAF.
In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS): M43 cameras lead the industry in IBIS performance. The OM-1 Mark II offers 8.5 stops, the G9II offers 8 stops, and even the budget G85 delivers excellent dual stabilization. Strong IBIS lets you shoot handheld video without a gimbal, which saves money and weight.
Video Codecs and Recording Limits: The GH6 stands alone with internal ProRes and unlimited recording. The GH5M2 adds live streaming. If video is your primary output, codec quality and recording limits should drive your decision more than megapixel count.
Weather Sealing: OM System cameras dominate here with IP53 ratings across the OM-1 Mark II, OM-3, and OM-5 Mark II. Panasonic bodies are splash and dust resistant but not IP-rated. For outdoor and adventure creators, this is a deciding factor.
Lens Ecosystem: Every camera here uses the Micro Four Thirds mount, giving you access to the largest mirrorless lens catalog. You can mix Panasonic, OM System, Sigma, and third-party lenses freely. Budget creators should start with a kit lens and add primes as needed.
Sensor Resolution and Type: Stacked BSI sensors (OM-1 Mark II, OM-3) offer faster readout and better burst performance. Standard BSI sensors (OM-5, E-M10 Mark IV) are great for most creators. The 25.2MP sensors in the G9II and GH6 offer the highest resolution for detail-critical work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hybrid camera for content creators?
The OM SYSTEM OM-1 Mark II is the best hybrid Micro Four Thirds camera for content creators, thanks to its 1053-point phase detection autofocus, 8.5-stop IBIS, and IP53 weather sealing. For video-first creators, the Panasonic GH6 with internal ProRes recording is the top choice.
What is the best micro 4 3 camera for videography?
The Panasonic LUMIX GH6 is the best Micro Four Thirds camera for videography. It records internal Apple ProRes 422 HQ, shoots 5.7K 60p and 4K 120p 10-bit video, and offers unlimited recording with no time limit. The Panasonic GH5M2 is the best choice for live streaming with built-in wireless streaming.
What are the disadvantages of hybrid cameras?
The main disadvantages of Micro Four Thirds hybrid cameras include a smaller sensor that produces more noise in very low light, shallower maximum depth of field control compared to full-frame, and on some models contrast-detect autofocus that is slower than phase-detect systems. Battery life on flagship models can also be shorter than DSLR counterparts.
What camera do influencers use for pictures?
Many influencers use the OM SYSTEM E-M10 Mark IV for its flip-down selfie screen, built-in art filters, and ultracompact body. The OM-3 is popular among style-focused creators for its vintage design and creative dial. Both offer 4K video and in-body stabilization for social content creation.
Is Micro Four Thirds still worth it in 2026?
Yes, Micro Four Thirds is still worth it in 2026 for creators who value portability, weather sealing, in-body image stabilization, and the largest mirrorless lens ecosystem. The system excels for travel, outdoor, and content creation workflows where compact size and lens affordability outweigh the low-light advantage of full-frame sensors.
Conclusion
The best hybrid Micro Four Thirds cameras for creators in 2026 deliver an unmatched combination of portability, stabilization, and lens flexibility. My top overall pick is the OM SYSTEM OM-1 Mark II for its class-leading autofocus, 8.5-stop IBIS, and bulletproof weather sealing. For video professionals, the Panasonic GH6 with internal ProRes remains the codec king. And for budget-conscious creators, the G85 and E-M10 Mark IV prove you do not need to spend a fortune to produce outstanding content.
The Micro Four Thirds system continues to reward creators who prioritize getting the shot over sensor size debates. Pick the body that matches your workflow, invest in good glass, and go create.