Olympus PEN E-P1
June 23rd, 2009 | Published in Digital Cameras, Olympus
E-P1 is the smallest, ultra portable 12.3 megapixel camera with interchangeable lens system which shows a combination of high quality still images as that of a Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR), a High Definition (HD) video, stereo linear PCM audio recording and in camera creativity. All what a person can dream of!
Features
- 12.3 MP
- Face detection
- Optical Image stabilization
- HD movie with stero sound
- 3 inches widescreen LCD
- Intelligent scene selector
Olympus has brought back the glorious Pen series which were in the market during 1950’s to 1980’s
E-P1, the one of its kind has been inspired the half frame digital SLR ‘PEN_FT’. It is an extension of E-620 and E-30 with changes like removal of viewfinder and built-in flash making it small compact and stylish.
12.3MP has been upgraded to increase resolution and sharpness. It delivers excellent dynamic range, accurate color fidelity, and a state-of-the-art amplifier circuit to reduce noise and capture fine image details in both highlight and shadow areas.
The new processor TRUEPIC V and the lighter low pass filter used have greatly improved the image quality greatly. It is no exaggeration to say that the sky looks brilliantly blue and the flesh tones are true to life. The new processor has also aided in reducing image noise in photos shot at higher ISO settings. It is also worthy to note that the range of ISO settings in E-P1 ranges from the lowest of 100 to a maximum of 6400.
There are 3 modes of In-body Image Stabilization provided in this camera which reduce the Exposure value upto four folds giving you blur-free images at a given situation. Also, the mechanical image stabilization works automatically to compensate for the camera shake in low light.
Micro four thirds system allows the lenses used to be considerably smaller. The camera can accept all other Four Thirds Format lenses with an available MMF-1 Four Thirds System Lens Adapter. Olympus also offers an optional Clip-on Optical Viewfinder for use with the Micro Four Thirds 17mm f2.8 (34mm equivalent) lens. One can use the Olympus OM lens with MF-2 OM Lens Adapter. An optional FL-14 flash unit is available which is suitably small for the camera and adds more lighting versatility to your shots.
The 3-inch HyperCrystal LCD is easier to view when compared to conventional LCD’s.
It displays nearly about 230,000 pixels in vivid colors and also provides a wide viewing angle of 176 degrees making it easier to compose images from more obscure angles.
One does not have to spend time scrolling over the various menus while taking snaps. With the new Live Control function, the icons keep popping up on the screen making it easier.
The E-P1’s fast Imager Auto focus Live View also enables you to compose, focus and capture the shot quickly and easily without ever taking your eyes off the large LCD.
Another unique feature of E-P1 is its Dust Reduction System. The Supersonic Wave filter based on ultrasonic technology vibrates to remove dust and other particles from the front of the sensor and captures it on an adhesive membrane every time the camera is turned on.
There are 3 metering modes available namely the 324 division ESP metering, center weighted metering and Spot metering. Optimum exposure is obtained with the division of the image area into 324 cells in the 324 ESP metering.
Olympus has done a very good job and is a sure shot buy
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