A memory card is not included with the camera.
Get a high-capacity memory card so you don't get caught without memory.
The Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera combines the versatility, performance, and image quality of a professional SLR, with the simplicity, compact size and ease-of-use of a consumer point-and-shoot digital camera - making it an ideal camera for photo hobbyists and serious digital photographers alike. The high resolution 10-megapixel Live-MOS image sensor combined with the TruePic III processor gives you better color and quality with true-to-life skin tones, brilliant blue skies, precise color transitions, more detail and less image noise - plus the high resolution provides you with the flexibility to crop your images and still produce large, detailed prints.
The 2.7" HyperCrystal II LCD enables images to be beautifully displayed in vivid color, even from 176-degree viewing angles or in bright sunlight, and the Autofocus Live View feature provides users with the choice of framing images with the viewfinder or on the LCD Display, making it simple to preview and review your images, and is the perfect tool for macro, portrait or even landscape shooting. The ergonomic and lightweight design of the camera body means that the camera will be comfortable to hold even after a long day of sightseeing, and the E-520 makes it easy to shoot like a pro with 20 intuitive Scene Select Modes like Fireworks, Night Scene, Portraits and even underwater modes.
The E-520's industry-leading Image Stabilization technology, which is built into the camera body, compensates for movement so you can capture blur-free shots with any lens -- even at slow shutter speeds. It uses a gyro sensor to track the movement of the camera and automatically compensates for it by moving the image sensor so blurriness is minimized or even eliminated. The image stabilization system can also be activated to assist you in low light settings. Furthermore, the Professional quality Zuiko lenses that Olympus has developed for the Evolt SLR cameras are designed to work perfectly with all of the camera's digital technology so your pictures will have exceptional color and clarity, and a broad selection of lenses is available. The E-520 also solves the dust problem commonly found with SLR cameras by providing a proven anti-dust system so your pictures will be spotless - every time.
The IS-1 mode adjusts the sensor on both the X and Y-axes to compensate for movement by the photographer, so images stay sharp even at slow shutter speeds. To capture the action of athletes or animals, the Image Stabilization system offers two specialized modes; the IS-2 mode is optimized for holding the camera horizontally while panning which is ideal for capturing subjects such as a racecar flying down the track. For sharp images of moving subjects like a basketball player charging up the court, the IS-3 mode allows a photographer the option of holding the camera vertically while panning for dramatic effects of action. The artistic effects of panning enhance the shot and render the subject in sharp detail with a motion-blurred background.
| Camera Type | Interchangeable Lens SLR Digital Camera with Live View |
| Image Quality | |
|---|---|
| Image Sensor | 4/3 (Four Thirds) 11.8 Megapixel Live MOS with RGB Primary Color, IR Cut Filter, and Supersonic Wave Filter (dust reduction system) |
| Effective Resolution | 10.0 million pixels |
| Color Depth | 36-Bit RGB |
| Color Modes |
sRGB or Adobe RGB (Vivid, Natural, Muted, Monotone) Image Adjustment Parameters (Contrast, Sharpness, Saturation) Filter effect (Yellow, Orange, Red or Green filter for Monotone) Picture tone (Sepia, Blue, Purple or Green tone) Gradation (auto, high key, normal, low key) |
| Image File Formats |
RAW (12-Bit) JPEG (Super fine [1/2.7], Fine [1/4], Normal [1/8], Basic [1/12]) RAW+JPEG |
| Recorded Resolution |
3648 x 2736 (RAW, SHQ HQ) 3200 x 2400 (SQ) 2560 x 1920 (SQ) 1600 x 1200 (SQ) 1280 x 960 (SQ) 1024 x 768 (SQ) 640 x 480 (SQ) |
| Video Recording | No |
| Audio Recording | No |
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Four-Thirds |
| Focal Length Multiplier | 2x |
| Optical Image Stabilization | Yes (Advanced Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization System) |
| Focus Control | |
|---|---|
| Focus Type | TTL phase-difference detection system (3-point multiple AF) or contrast detection system (11-point multiple AF) with AF illuminator |
| Focus Modes | Single AF (S-AF), Continuous AF (C-AF), Manual Focus (MF), S-AF + MF, C-AF + MF, AF Lock, Focus tracking |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity |
Auto ISO Selectable ISO (100 - 1600 in 1 EV steps) |
| Shutter Type | Computerized focal-plane shutter |
| Shutter Speed |
60 - 1/4000 seconds in 1/3, 1/2, 1 EV steps Bulb (up to 30 min. with limiter) |
| Mirror Lock-Up | Yes |
| Exposure Metering | TTL open-aperture metering system (Digital ESP - 49-point multi pattern, Centre weighted average, Spot, Spot with Highlight control, Spot with Shadow control |
| Exposure Modes | Auto, Program AE (Program shift can be performed), Aperture priority AE, Shutter priority AE, Manual, Scene program AE, Scene select AE, Exposure compensation (±5 EV in 1/3, 1/2, 1 EV steps selectable), AE lock, Exposure bracketing (frames in 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, 1EV steps selectable) |
| White Balance Modes | Auto, Lamp (3000K), Fluorescent 1 (4000K), Fluorescent 2 (4500K), Fluorescent 3 (6600K), Daylight (5300K), Cloudy (6000K), Shade (7500K), White balance compensation (±7 steps in each R-B/G-M axis), Custom white balance, One-touch white balance, White balance bracketing (3 frames in 2, 4, 6 steps selectable in each R-G/G-M axis) |
| Scene Modes | Portrait, Landscape, Landscape + Portrait, Night Scene, Night + Portrait, Children, Sport, High Key, Low Key, Digital Image Stabilization, Macro, Nature Macro, Candle, Sunset, Fireworks, Documents, Panorama (requires Olympus xD-Picture Card), Beach & Snow, Underwater Wide, Underwater Macro |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Flash | Yes (Auto pop-up Retractable flash; Auto, Red-eye reduction, Red-eye reduction slow sync., Fill-in, Slow synchronization, Manual, Off.) |
| Effective Flash Range | 39' (12.0 m) @ ISO 100 |
| External Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| External Flash Control | TTL Auto (TTL pre-flash mode), Auto, Manual, FP TTL Auto, FP Manual |
| Maximum Flash Synchronization Speed | 1/180 second (up to 1/4000 second with Super FP) |
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Start-Up Time | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Shutter Lag | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Time Between Shots | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Burst Capability | 3.5 fps up to 8 frames in RAW (up to memory capacity in JPEG) |
| Self Timer | 2 seconds or 12 seconds |
| Interval Recording | No |
| Date & Time Stamp | No |
| Memory & Power | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Built-in Memory | No | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Compatible Memory Cards |
CompactFlash (type I & II)/Microdrive xD-Picture Card |
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| File Size |
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| Battery Type | BLM-1 Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Power Adapter | No | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Input/Output | |
|---|---|
| Computer Interface | USB 2.0 (High Speed) storage and camera control |
| Direct Print Capable | Yes (PictBridge) |
| Remote Control | RM-UC1 Remote cable (optional) or RM-1 infra-red remote control (optional) |
| Video Output | Yes (NTSC & PAL) |
| System & Software Requirements |
Windows 98SE, Me, 2000, XP, Vista Macintosh OS X (10.2 or later) |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Viewfinder | Eye-level Single-Lens Reflex Viewfinder with Diopter adjustment (-3.0 - +1m-1 |
| Viewfinder Info | Aperture value, Shutter speed, Record mode, AF confirmation mark, Flash, WB, AE lock, Number of storable still images, Exposure compensation value, Metering mode, Battery warning, Exposure mode, AF frame (super impose) |
| Depth-of-Field Preview | Yes |
| LCD Display | 2.7" HyperCrystal II TFT color LCD (230,000 pixels) with brightness adjust (15 levels), and Live View Feature |
| Information Display | Battery information, Exposure mode, Shutter speed, Aperture value, Exposure compensation value, ISO sensitivity, Exposure compensation indicator, Exposure indicator, Flash intensity compensation indicator, Date, BKT setting, NR setting, WB, WB compensation value, Picture mode, Flash mode, Record mode, Image size, Card information, Drive mode, Flash intensity compensation value, Metering mode, Recordable still image number, Focusing mode, FP warning, AF frame, AF illuminator deactivated notification, Color space, Sharpness, Contrast, Saturation, Gradation, IS activating mode, Face detection, RC mode setting |
| Language Options | English, French, Spanish, Portuguese |
| Playback Options | Single-frame, Index (4/9/16/25/49/100 frames), Calendar, Close-up ( 2-14X), Slideshow, Picture rotation (auto mode available), Histogram (independent luminance/RGB available), Highlight/Shadow point warning, AF frame, Shooting information, Image Erase/Protect (Single frame, All frames, Selected frames), Image Editing (RAW development, Monotone, Sepia, Red-eye reduction, Saturation (color depth), Resize (producing another file)) |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (HxWxD) | 3.6 x 5.4 x 2.7" (92 x 136 x 68mm) body only |
| Weight | 16.8 oz (475g) body only |
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Reviewed by 41 customers
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
Comes ready to go right out of the box with everything you need! The only thing required to purchase is a memory card; easy instructions on what to purchase are included. Great Camera for the price!
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
Have the E-620 and needed a second camera for taching members of my junior church group. Easy to learn hou to use, takes great pictures. Children love using it.
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
I bought this as my first DSLR, and it didn't dissapoint. I love the control I have with this camera. The shots come out great, and the kit lens works very well.
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
I am a professional photographer for over 10 years now. Olympus entry level SLR's are the BEST out of all the big boys- plus the image stabilization is in the BODY- saving money on expensive VR lenses from the others. OLympus is the best bang for the buck- and the company is on the cutting edge of newer features and cameras like their EP-1 and EP-2 cameras. Don't go for the gimmicks of the other camera companies. All the big name cameras are great- but Olympus gives you more for your money.
GREAT IMAGE QUALITY AND CAMERA OPERATION!
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
This camera takes incredible photos!! The clarity is amazing and the colors are wonderful. I've taken some pictures of my son playing hockey and some of our aquarium and they've all turned out beautiful. The manual is a little hard to understand, slightly confusing, but overall I'm incredibly happy with the camera.
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
I have to give it 5 Stars if for nothing more than the ease for which this camera operates. The opitions on this camera are so complete. I am just a novice at Photograpy and this camera is a step up from last one. I shoot mostly in the Agility Ring as my wife runs two BC in six different states. This caera was flawless at the last run in AZ. The ISO sensitivity ranges from auto (100-1600) manual (100-1600. These dogs are fast and it was an ease to shoot them with this camera. Plus the fact of sequential shooting speed is approx.3.5 frames/sec. Since I have only had the camera two weeks I can't say alot except that, this camera has made a big difference in my progression for taking the kind of pictures I have wanted to be able to take, thaks again to the Olympus people, what a camera. Greg J.
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
-lightweight, small, easy functions
-may need an additional lens depending on type of pictures you would like to take
Pros
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
I recently got this camera as a birthday present and I couldn't be happier. These are the things I love about it:
1. Fast shutter speed
2. Lightweight
3. Easy to find functions for different things
4. Flash function that can be set at 1/4 or even 1/64 brightness - with a quick click
As with any camera, the cost of accessories (card, case, etc) adds up quickly. The lens that comes with the package is good, but I wish it had stronger zoom beyond 42.
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
I've had my E-520 for a few weeks now. I like almost everything about it. The images excellent, with good color rendition. I am slightly disappointed that it doesn't use a standard USB cable, but I can live with that. The only real con I can think of is the location of two of the buttons, which I always manage to press with my thumb accidentally. This is my first DSLR, and I'm happy I got it.
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
This camera is great for anyone transitioning from point and shoot to DSLR. It is very light, has a great fit, and is very affordable. The menus are easy to navigate, and it's just plain fun to use.
I use this camera for amateur outdoor photography on hiking/backpacking trips so the light weight is very helpful.
My only disappointment with this camera so far is that it is made in China, unlike my old Olympus E-10 - that unit is built like a tank.
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
I owned the E-Volt 500 and was very satisfied with it and still use it for a back up camera. But this E-520 is exceptional with its anti-shake built in and the sensor cleaner, no one beats it. Cannon's is a sick copy of Olympus on this feature. The Olympus kit lenses put anything Cannon has to shame as well. The only camera with kit lenses that comes close to what this Olympus does for the money is the more expensive Nikon D60. The Cannon Rebel XT-i is a good camera, but has poor kit lenses -- you have to get spendy if you want the same quality lens that Olympus sells with its kits for a Cannon. It is completely adjustable for any conditions. In low light it is not as responsive as the Cannon, but if you are patient and learn your camera, you will do fine.
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
I like the small size of this camera. Also, the ability to get closer to wildlife with the 2X feature this camera has. Probably the main reason for buying it was the IS in the body. It shoots fast enough for most sports and the focusing is adequate but it's not the strongest feature of this camera. Of course, the lens used has an affect on the ability of the camera to focus rapidly. I have used Olympus OM Cameras in the past and thought I would try an Olympus Digital Camera and I have not been disappointed. I also have used Canon and Nikon Digital Cameras. They all have their strengths and weaknesses, and it always comes down to being in the right place at the right time, and then knowing how to take adevantage of it.
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
I LOVE this camera! The focusing ability is wonderful and although I have the 14-44mm lens I use it for macro work with stunning results.
The manual was somewhat complicated but after a few hours with it I mastered most of the settings. I also love the light construction. I have never had a problem with the weight.
At the moment I can't think of any cons.
I use this camera mostly for children's photography and macro work, but I think it would do well with just about anything.
So if you're looking for a great DSLR for under $500, this is the camera to buy!
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
I use this camera for everything family, friends, church functions etc.
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
I love this camera. The menus are easy to learn and it takes incredible pictures. The kit lens get pretty boring fast but works great! I am hooked on olympus!
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
I have upgraded from the E-510 to the E-520. The E-520 has everything that I loved about the E-510 plus a few newer features. The live view LCD screen is slightly larger and works much better. By upgrading to the E-520, I'm still able to use all of the lens that I bought for the E-510.
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
I use the product for everything. Out of a class of 35 people I won best picture... and I am new to using cameras. It takes a while to learn all of the functions and buttons but once you do you will be snapping great pictures all the time. The live view is great. The standard kit lens is amazing compared to other kit lenses. Over all great camera and I am very very happy I purchased it.
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
Super sharp kit lens. I've used OM lenses for years on an OM-1 and this lens is as good as any of the OM's and much lighter. The E-520 is a fun camera to use for a techie. Lots of adjustments and options can be taken, but has a decent automatic mode. The focusing is sometimes dicey and took me a while to learn the options to expedite focusing speed. The Manual is not a quick read for someone who hasn't used digital SLR's before. I'd buy it again.
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
I am an avid outdoors photographer and find the E-520 so very easy to use and I can bring the photos home and download them with ease.
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Comments about Olympus E-520 SLR Digital Camera Kit with 14-42mm Lens:
Having handled Olympus 30 mm cameras many years ago, picking up the E-520 took me right back - this is a digital camera that oozes vintage OM usability (even the top plate mode selector brings back memories of the old OM-series cameras).
The controls are generally well-placed and intuitive - it took a matter of minutes to have the camera configured from scratch and taking decent photos. I particularly like the comprehensive parameter display on the LCD, that allows you to fine tune almost every aspect of the picture-taking process with a couple of button clicks.
I was particularly impressed with the manual focusing setup. Not only is the hybrid auto-manual focusing mode great for fine tuning focus, but the focusing ring on the kit lens is exceedingly responsive - unlike most of the competition. This, together with how the camera handled, was a major selling point.
Add in features like sophisticated in-camera image stabilization and live-view, and this is a great product.
But it isn't perfect. I'm not a great fan of the four thirds system - the sensor is too small and I don't particularly like the aspect ratio. Image quality is fine - but not as sharp and well-defined as you get on more expensive 10 MP cameras. The viewfinder is on the small and dull side. And like most cameras in this price bracket, the body is a little insubstantial.
But none of these were deal-breakers for me, and were far outweighed by what you do get with the camera--a highly specified, highly usable and versatile camera that has the capability to take great pictures.
I was tempted to give the camera 4 stars, as it does have it's limitations. But give what you get for what you pay, this would seem churlish - so five stars it is!
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