Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne)
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Remember the Essentials
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 PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera is a dream come true for many photographers with 12 megapixels and technology normally found in much larger cameras and High Definition (HD) camcorders.
It features a PEN large-size image sensor that is 8 times larger than the ones in average point & shoot cameras. This sensor, combined with the TruePic V Image Processor, delivers excellent dynamic range, accurate color and reduced noise, all the way up to ISO 3200. With state-of-the art noise reduction technology and 3 in-body image stabilization modes, users will realize clear images with all compatible lenses under most lighting conditions.
The E-PL1's iAuto mode automatically identifies the scene you're shooting (portrait, landscape, night portrait, macro, or sport) and adjusts the settings to optimize results. While in iAuto you can engage Live Guide control which lets you compose your picture, manipulate the image with various in-camera effects like softening backgrounds, adjusting colors, and brightness before taking the photo.
Adding to the dream, recording HD movies (720p) with the E-PL1 is simple thanks to an easy-to-reach record button on the back of the camera body. You can toggle back and forth between capturing stills and video which opens endless shooting possibilities, for example you can shoot a portrait of a child and switch to video to capture the moment when he or she is playing with the dog that interrupted your shooting session.
This camera has 19 automatic scene-select modes which adjust camera settings according to the subject you are photographing plus 6 in-camera Art Filters (Pop Art, Soft Focus, Grainy Film, Pin Hole, Diorama and the new Gentle Sepia filter). These tools make image capture easy and can expand your creativity.
This E-PL1 comes with an M.Zuiko Digital ED Micro Four Thirds mount 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6L lens which is extremely compact and has a plastic mount which helps keep the weight down. It at has both ED and Aspherical lens elements which deliver very high imaging performance. Despite its small size it delivers amazing image brightness and contrast. It covers wide angle to moderate telephoto distances and is suitable for portraits, everyday shooting, and traveling.
- HD Movies
- Shoot HD movies at 30 frames per second, with high-quality sound, in 720p with available manual control over aperture and shutter speed. This new level of control allows you to express your vision exactly how you want in your HD videos. A Direct HD Movie Button switches you from still to movie mode with the press of a button. You can also capture HD video (720p) using one of the six Art Filters for more creative shooting options.
- Easy-to-Use Live Guide Control
- With the E-PL1 you can see the results of your camera settings before you shoot allowing you to change the way you take a picture. Simply set the camera to iAuto, press OK to engage Live Guide, then press the up and down arrows on the back of the camera to easily slide through numerous photographic effects. Make adjustments and watch the LCD as the effects are made live -- before the image is captured. Live Guide also features a "Tips" section on how to compose a shot or shoot kids, pets, flowers and more. Or maybe you want to capture the fast-moving action of your subject with a little artistic blur, or perhaps freeze the action.
- Built-in Flash
- Use the built-in pop-up flash to easily illuminate low-light subjects. The camera is also compatible with a range of optional external flashes including the Olympus FL-14. The E-PL1 has wireless flash control using the FL-36R and FL-50R -- for dynamic lighting control.
- In-Camera Art Filters
- With 6 in-camera Art Filters (Pop Art, Soft Focus, Grainy Film, Pin Hole, Diorama and the new Gentle Sepia filter) you can explore your artistic side while taking both still shots and HD video. The Art Filters can be applied as you shoot, no additional software required.
- 12.3 Megapixels
- The E-PL1's powerful 12.3 megapixel Live-MOS sensor packs a powerful high-quality imaging punch for such a compact camera, allowing you to capture more detail than ever before. The Live MOS image sensor delivers excellent dynamic range, accurate color fidelity and fine image details in both highlight and shadow areas.
- In-Body Image Stabilization
- The E-PL1's 3-mode In-body Image Stabilization system compensates for up to 3 shutter speed steps in the still shooting modes with any of its interchangeable lenses: Mode 1 for general shooting, Mode 2 for creative high-speed horizontal capture, and Mode 3 for high-speed vertical capture. The camera's Mechanical Image Stabilization automatically compensates for camera shake in low-light situations or when using a telephoto lens. In the Movie Modes the advanced Electronic Image Stabilization tracts the images both vertically and horizontally to achieve clear sharp movies.
- Compact Size, Interchangeable Lenses
- Olympus has packed a big sensor into a small camera. The stylish design of the Olympus PEN E-PL1 is much more compact than a traditional DSLR, but it still provides the option of interchangeable lenses.
- In-Camera Slideshow With Sound
- The E-PL1's enhanced playback functions allow you to employ effective fade-in/fade-out techniques, control the movie/still mix and speed, add captivating musical soundtracks, and much more.
- Multiple Exposures
- Multiple exposures make heightened creativity an easily-obtained objective. Two frames can be combined to create an image uniquely yours. Images can be combined in playback mode or directly on the LCD display.
- iAuto with iEnhance
- In the iAuto mode the E-PL1 automatically identifies the scene you're shooting - portrait, landscape, night portrait, macro, or sport - and adjusts the settings to optimize results. iEnhance can be used in any mode, and automatically engages when using iAuto to enrich color in any subject, just as the human eye sees it.
- TruePic V Image Processor
- In addition to more detail, the image sensor, combined with the next-generation TruePic V Image Processor, delivers excellent dynamic range, accurate color fidelity and reduced noise, all the way up to 3200 ISO.
- 19 Automatic Scene-Select Modes
- The E-PL1 is equipped with 19 scene-select modes for effortless picture taking. Standard scene modes like Night-Scene, Portrait and Landscape are easy-to-use solutions for everyday shooting.
- Dust Reduction System
- A Dust Reduction System assures spot-free images. Every time you turn on the camera, the patented Supersonic Wave Filter silently vibrates, flinging and collecting dust so that it cannot interfere with the picture imaging at any time.
- AF Live View with AF Tracking
- AF Live View works as seamlessly as a point-and-shoot to display subjects, in focus, on the LCD the instant the shutter is pressed half way. AF Tracking locks your subject into focus right on the LCD, and constantly adjusts focus and brightness whether you or your subject is moving. With this mode, a simple push of the AF button and shutter release enables you to keep fast-moving and unpredictable subjects in focus.
- In-Camera Editing
- Make changes to your image after the shot, right in the camera. Adjust for red eye, crop an image, change the aspect ratio or saturation, and change your image to black and white...and more. In-Camera JPEG edit functions allow you to quickly tweak your images right in the camera so you can easily upload them to your favorite web site and share them with friends and family.
- Face Detection
- A Face Detection function reduces the chance of blurry faces when shooting groups of people, up to eight subjects at once, even if they're moving while you're pressing the shutter button.
- Shadow Adjustment Technology
- Shadow Adjustment Technology corrects for extreme light variations with high-tech efficiency. It can also be used in post-editing.
- ePortrait
- The ePortrait Scene-Select mode is useful for smoothing out the facial features of your subjects, which is a tremendous plus for High Definition video playback, or apply ePortrait post shot via .JPEG edit.
- Multiple Aspect Ratio Shooting
- The E-PL1 lets you select one of four aspect ratios (4:3, 3.2, 16.9 and 6.6) that help frame your images to whatever proportions you'd like. Aspect ratios are available for still photo and HD movie capture, for everything from conventional enlargements to viewing on widescreen monitors.
- Accessory Port
- The E-PL1 includes a port for new accessories including the SEMA-1 Microphone adapter set and the VF-2 live-finder, a detachable electronic viewfinder. The viewfinder easily slides onto the camera's accessory port and hot shoe to provide 1.15x magnification for a 100% field of view. The VF-2 rotates up 90° which is useful when shooting subjects from challenging angles. The external accessory port also allows for connection with the new EMA-1 external microphone adapter for enhanced audio capture.
- Micro Four Thirds Mount
- The Micro Four Thirds Mount on the E-PL1 provides many key benefits, including the effectiveness of a digitally designed image sensor, an ultra-compact design, and expandability and compatibility with all Micro Four Thirds Lenses and Four Thirds System Lens via the MMF-2 Adapter (not included).
- SDHC Media Cards
- The E-PL1 is capable of recording video to SDHC media cards to accommodate large files. (SDHC Class 6 cards are recommended). Videos, stills and high-fidelity audio can also be output via an HDMI cable, direct to any HD television.
- Underwater Housing
- The PEN E-PL1's compact design makes it the perfect companion for all of your dive trips. The PT-EP01 underwater housing (optional) has been specially customized for the Olympus PRO E-PL1 and is waterproof to a depth of approximately 130' (40 meters). With its durable, high-quality polycarbonate construction, this Olympus housing protects the camera from water while also cushioning it from knocks and bumps on land.
| Camera Type | Interchangeable lens, Live View digital camera |
| Imaging | |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 12.3MP |
| Color Spaces | sRGB, Adobe RGB |
| Sensor | High speed Live MOS Sensor |
| File Formats |
JPEG RAW (12-bit lossless compression) RAW + JPEG |
| File Size |
|
| Recording Format |
Still: DCF, DPOF compatible/Exif, Print Image Matching III Movie: AVI Motion JPEG(30fps) |
| Image Size |
RAW: 4032 x 3024 pixels JPEG: 4032 x 3024 pixels, 640 x 480 pixels |
| Aspect Ratio | 1.33 (4:3) |
| Image Stabilization |
Built into camera body |
| Focusing |
AF system: Imager Contrast Detection AF system (When non high-speed imager AF compatible lens is used, it works as AF assist) |
| Focus Modes |
Single AF (S-AF) Continuous AF (C-AF) Manual Focus (MF) S-AF + MF AF Tracking (C-AF + TR) |
| Number of Focusing Points |
11-area multiple AF with the contrast detection system Focus point selection: Auto from all 11 areas Single area from 11 areas Auto from almost all areas when face detection is on Free selection (from 225 points) when Magnified View mode is selected Focus tracking available Manual focus assist available |
| Lens | |
|---|---|
| Lens | 14-42mm L f/3.5 - 5.6 (35mm equivalent focal length: 28-84mm) |
| Groups/Elements | 8/9 |
| Angle of View | 75° - 29° |
| Closest Focusing Distance | 0.8' (0.25m) |
| Magnification | Max.: 0.24x (35mm equivalent 0.48x) |
| Number of Blades | 7 (circular aperture diaphragm) |
| Aperture Range | f/3.5 - f/22 |
| Filter Size | 40.5mm |
| Dimensions | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Weight | Not Specified by Manufacturer |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity | Auto: ISO 200 - 3200 (customizable, default: 200-1600) |
| Shutter Type | Computerized focal-plane shutter |
| Shutter Speeds |
60 - 1/2000 sec Bulb: up to 30 min (default: 8 min) 1/3, 1/2, or 1 EV steps (selectable) |
| Metering | TTL image sensor metering system |
| Metering Range | EV 0 - 18 (digital ESP, center weighted average, spot metering) |
| Exposure Modes |
iAuto P: Program AE A: Aperture priority AE |
| Exposure Mode Control |
|
| Multiple Display Configuration |
2 frames Functions: auto gain, Live View, exposing on recorded picture |
| White Balance |
|
| Mirror Lock-Up | N/A |
| Burst Capability | Approx. 3 frames/sec |
| Self Timer | 12/2 sec (cancel available) |
| Remote Control | N/A |
| Picture Modes |
|
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Built-in Flash | Yes |
| Flash Modes |
External: Auto Red-eye reduction Red-eye reduction slow sync Slow sync at 1st curtain Slow sync at 2nd curtain l-in Off |
| External Flash Connection |
YES Compatible Olympus E-system flash units: FL-50R, FL-36R, FL-50, FL-36, FL-20, FL-14 |
| Max Sync Speed |
1/30 - 1/60 sec Super FP: 1/125 -1/2000 sec |
| Alarm Volume | Wireless flash control available (4 channels, 3 groups) |
| Memory | |
|---|---|
| Memory Cards |
SD SDHC 1 Please Note:Class 6 memory cards are recommended for movie shooting close |
| Still Images per GB |
Approx. 290 shots (IS ON, CIPA test standard) with BLS-1 Lithium-ion battery and Toshiba class 6 SDHC 4GB card
2
Please Note:With 50% flash lighting close |
| A/V Recording | |
|---|---|
| Recording Format | AVI Motion JPEG (30fps) |
| Video Resolution |
HD: 1280 x 720, aspect: 16:9 SD: 640 x 480, aspect: 4:3 (VGA) |
| Video Clip Length |
HD: 7 min SD: 14 min Maximum file size: 2GB (limited by AVI format) |
| Audio Recording |
Wave format base Stereo PCM (64-bit, 44.1kHz) Mono |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Display | 2.4" LCD with Live View MOS image sensor |
| Field of View | 100% |
| Display Modes |
Normal Grid line Histogram (3 types) Magnified view Comparable view Off (for optical view finder use) Face detection: 8 frames max. |
| Languages | English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Russian, Czech, Dutch, Danish, Polish, Portuguese, Swedish, Norwegian, Finnish, Croat, Slovenian, Hungarian, Greek, Slovakian, Turkish, Latvian, Estonian, Lithuanian, Ukrainian, Serbian, Bulgarian, Rumanian, Indonesian |
| Interfaces |
|
| Operating/Storage Temperature |
32 - 104°F (0 - 40°C) (operation) -4 - 140°F (-20 - 60°C) (storage) |
| Weatherproofing | No |
| Power | |
|---|---|
| Battery Type | BLS-1 Lithium-ion rechargeable battery |
| Power Adapter | BCS-1 battery charger |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 4.51 x 2.84 x 1.63" (114.6 x 72.2 x 41.5mm) (excluding protrusions) |
| Weight |
10.4 oz (296 g) (body only) 12.13 oz (344 g) (including battery and memory card) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 26 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Easy to use (25)
- Good image quality (25)
- Image stabilization (18)
- High ISO performance (14)
- Fast / accurate auto-focus (13)
Cons
- Lag / shutter delay (9)
- No viewfinder (8)
- Poor in low light (6)
- Short battery life (3)
Best Uses
- Travel (23)
- Landscape/scenery (20)
- Low light (11)
- Video (11)
- Family photos (9)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Photo enthusiast (16), Casual photographer (4), Pro photographer (3), Semi-pro photographer (3)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (10), Yes (5)
Most Liked Positive Review
An Almost Excellent Camera
I bought the EPL-1 not as a replacement for my aging E-3 but as a supplement. The original reason I got into the Four-Thirds world was the promise of a smaller, lighter ...Read complete review
I bought the EPL-1 not as a replacement for my aging E-3 but as a supplement. The original reason I got into the Four-Thirds world was the promise of a smaller, lighter camera (and associated gear). I started with the E-510 with kit lenses and, desiring more features, moved up to the E-3 and the bigger lenses. Small and light went by the wayside.
Enter Micro Four-Thirds. I choose the EPL-1 over the EP-2 because of price and over the Panasonic GF-1 because of the promise of better autofocus compatibility with my Four-Thirds lenses. Here's what I found:
Image quality: very good - perhaps as good as the E-3 (maybe better). E-3 has better dynamic range probably. With the Panasonic 20/1.7 - fantastic, especially when used wide open.
Focus: Ah. Well, with good light it focuses fairly quickly and accurately WITH micro four-thirds lenses. But, nowhere near the speed of a standard DSLR. In low light, I hope your not shooting moving objects! "Slow" and "hunting" are words that come to mind. DSLR? No contest.
Compatibility with standard four-thirds lenses (using the Panasonic adapter):
14-42 kit lens - works well (this is a contrast detect lens like the micro 43s)
40-150 kit lens - mostly works well (contrast), hunts sometimes,
9-18 (contrast) - work well,
50/f2 macro - works pretty well (IQ is quite good indeed!), somewhat slow focus,
50-200 (non-SWD) - hunts a little sometimes, but IQ and focus accuracy very good, again somewhat slow focus with an occasional balk,
12-60 SWD - awful! Even in bright light has trouble and often just gives up!
General impression with four-thirds lenses: EPL-1 has even more trouble with focusing in low light with ALL four-thirds lenses. With manual focus, the auto-zoom feature lets you focus extremely accurate with any lens.
General impression: I love it (as long as I'm using the right lenses and it's not too dark). IQ is better than I expected and the portability is a godsend.
What I'm not crazy about: not good for snap shots - too slow and can miss the moment. Dynamic range a little lacking. Autofocus compatibility with four-thirds lenses not great - usable (in most cases) but definitely to be used in non-time-critical events (landscape, posed, still life, etc.)
What's next for me: 1) get the electronic viewfinder - it can be challenging in bright sunlight to get the composition right and check the focus, 2) get a tele-zoom.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Still debating
I'm still on the fence with this camera. I bought is because it's an Olympus and for the interchangeable lens feature - the chance to use OM system lenses on this small body. My ...Read complete review
I'm still on the fence with this camera. I bought is because it's an Olympus and for the interchangeable lens feature - the chance to use OM system lenses on this small body. My first impression is the lack of a viewfinder is a real issue (yes, one is available for another couple of hundred bucks or so)in that the LCD screen is almost unusable in bright sunlight and manual focusing without some sort of focus screen is hit or miss at best. With the kit lens the camera is fine, although the lack of a viewfinder forces you to hold the camera at arms length, not a great recipe for stable shots (the in body stabilization saves the day!) I'm still working with the camera and hoping to use its good points and work around some of the problem areas. At this point I really prefer the Canon SX20IS we have.
REVIEWS
Reviewed by 26 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-20
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Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
This is a good reliable camera. The image quality that the camera produces is great. It is very portable and reliable and also simple to handle. The flash is very powerful and bright and your able to change the flash quality of the camera. The macro quality of the camera is great.The only issues it seems to have is that it is poor in low light and it can be loud while taking a picture or just by turning it on. This camera would best good at taking pictures of landscape/scenery, events and urban life.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Quiet
Cons
- Lag / Shutter Delay
- Noisy At High ISO
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
Excellent images and good video at 720p.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Lag / Shutter Delay
Best Uses
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
I have had used SLRs but I no longer want to carry, travel, hike, etc. with a heavy and large camera. This camera gave me the perfect solution. Great quality, features and controls but a much smaller and lighter camera than a SLR. This has the same sensor as a SLR, so you still get great pictures as well. The ability to use different lenses is a great benefit too. Great buy!
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
Cons
- No Viewfinder
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Video
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
Bought as a gift for 10 year-old daughter. She wanted a camera with a bit more control than a point and shoot. She took a darkroom course this summer and got the first inkling of what goes into great photography. Blown away by the image quality. The auto mode and the scenes are great ways to stretch an amateur's mastery of a camera's basic controls. Still learning. Wish it had a range finder sight. Shooting in bright sun with the LCD makes composition a bit tricky at times.
- Ease of Operation:
- 7
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
Cons
Best Uses
- Travel
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
great for travel
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Large Clear LCD
- Quiet
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
My dad now looks like a tourist with his new pen strapped around his neck.
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Easy To Use
Cons
- Lag / Shutter Delay
- No Viewfinder
Best Uses
- Travel
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
LCD isn't clear but photos are great especially with those filters
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- High ISO Performance
Cons
- No Viewfinder
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
I've been using another camera with a smaller sensor and really wanted to get that shallow depth of field. At the price offered, the Olympus seemed like a great choice. It's small and light, picture quality is very nice, and I love the artistic filters option. Only problem with that they take too long to process in the camera. So, you have to wait a few seconds before taking your next photo. Another problem that was mentioned was poor autofocus in low light. You'd think a modern camera would have an infra red metering for that.Also, the LCD is small and hard to read in direct sunlight, not up to par with other cameras. But what do you expect for [$]??The other reason I bought this camera, was the ability to get a tilt/shift adapter that enables me to use my old Nikon lenses on this camera, while creating awesome tilt/shift soft focus effects! all at a fraction of the cost of a "real" tilt/shift lens.Overall, a great travel camera that offers a nice balance between size, quality and price!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
Cons
- No Viewfinder
Best Uses
- Travel
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
The camera/lens combo is not tiny, but will go into a big pocket. That it produces a professional quality result is the reason that I bought it -- and it does. The lens is excellent and I am comparing with the 14-54 mm used on an E-3 and E-620. I have only used it for a few weeks, but am very pleased with feel, quality and images thus far.
- Ease of Operation:
- 6
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
Cons
- Lag / Shutter Delay
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
I got this camera to have for everyday usage as well as when I cannot carry my Nikon D200. It has been a great camera and the pre-set shooting modes are really good. It takes better pictures in low light situations, but not if it is too dark (like others have said). I get good pictures even at 1600 ISO with no flash.
- Ease of Operation:
- 8
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
- Quiet
Cons
- Larger than expected
Best Uses
- Travel
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
This camera is great, a nice light change from carrying around my DSLR.
- Ease of Operation:
- 10
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
Cons
- Short Battery Life
- Small LCD Screen
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
This is a great camera with many different functions, and it takes great pictures even in the low light. I bought it because it's difficult to carry my SLR in the casual settings, but want to have better quality pictures than point and shoot. I am very happy with the quality, and it's better than I expected.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
- Quiet
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
I am upgrading from the simple point and shoot camera and this is the perfect replacement and step to the next level of camera. I absolutely love the art settings you are able to select right on the camera. The size is bigger than Im use to but not unmanageable at all. The pictures and settings are easy to use and I cannot wait to use it all around the world on my travels!! What a great camera!!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Good Image Quality
- High ISO Performance
Cons
- No Viewfinder
- Small LCD Screen
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
I purchased this camera about 2 months ago and it has not dissapointed at all. The pictures are truly amazing. Sharp as can be! Very easy to use. It really makes taking photos fun.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- Large Clear LCD
- Quiet
Cons
- Lag / Shutter Delay
- No Viewfinder
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
For my recent third trip to India in 3 years (with Olympus photographer John Isaac) , I wanted two lightweight cameras, and I already owned the E420, so the Pen E-PL1 was the perfect second camera. Not ordering the viewfinder was a mistake, as I couldn't see the LCD when the sun shone on it. Fortunately, another traveler loaned me his viewfinder most of the time, and I have since purchased my own. I specialize in lightweight packing, and this 3-week trip required clothing for both cold and hot weather. I checked only one bag weighing 25 lbs, and carried only my 13" notebook computer and my VERY lightweight camera bag. Volume and weight are important to me, so the Pen was perfect for this trip. A few years ago, my little SP350, which shot RAW, was stolen; this little camera more than replaces it and I carry it everywhere, even when I run!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
Cons
- Short Battery Life
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
This is a great camera for those dipping their toes into the world of higher quality cameras. It is easy to use, but the resulting photos are as professional looking as any camera valued at professional prices.
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
Cons
- Lack of viewfinder
- Lag / Shutter Delay
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
This is my "tweener" camera, I own two point & shoots, and a digital SLR. Great to take to events where I want quality pics w/o taking a bag of gear. I like: ease of use/ built-in flash/ in camera art filters, retracting lense. I don't like: no viewfinder unless you pay another couple hundred bucks/ lack of good, compact cases for this camera, difficulty shooting moving subjects. Overall I like this camera a great deal and will use it for car shows, hiking, city visits, etc., where I'd rather not lug around my SLR.
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
- High ISO Performance
- Large Clear LCD
- Quiet
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Travel
- Video
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
Excellent build quality; Comfortable and stylish body. Captures sharp 12-megapixel photos.Excellent shooting performance. Capable continuous AF tracking option. Versatile exposure and creative mode options. Great high ISO performance up to ISO 3200. Finally a built-in flash unit.
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast / Accurate Auto-Focus
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
Cons
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Macro Photography
- Travel
- Video
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
I have used both point-and-shoot as well as full DSLR cameras. I've not been happy with my DSLR pictures. Lacking color, autofocus not accurate, etc. P-N-S cameras just aren't crisp enough as resolution just isn't there. The EPL-1 is the perfect middle ground. If you are stepping down from a DSLR, this might not meet your needs as it doesn't have all the same functionality but if you are stepping up from a P-N-S, the EPL-1 will not disappoint you. Other reviews I read mentioned slow autofocus. I have not experienced this. It may be slower than a DSLR, but is certainly not slow. Image color and detail is incredible. Some of the quick "idiot" programs make those artistic pictures easy to take (blurred background is one that I love to use). The macro function with the standard lens takes far better pictures than I could ever get with my DLSR.
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Good Image Quality
- Good Image Stabilization
Cons
- Noisy lens in movie mode
Best Uses
- Indoors/Low Light
- Landscape/Scenery
- Travel
Comments about Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital Camera (Champagne):
Good camera with great colours from jpeg. Kit lens is quite good. Overall, a good upgrade from point and shoot cameras. Small and light enough, yet reasonably good quality pictures.
Lens can be noisy during focusing in movie mode.
Displaying reviews 1-20
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Memory Cards
Required item: Memory is not included so be sure to have enough storage capacity.
- Price: $17.50
Lenses
Get a wide-angle, zoom, or other effect for various photography applications.
- Price: $299.00
Batteries & Power
Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.
- Price: $38.30
-
- Original: $19.95
- Save: $1.99
- Price: $17.96
Filters
Protect your lens or produce a desired visual effect.
- Price: $7.95
Flash & Accessories
Get a flash to add light to your picture.
- Price: $199.00
Bags & Cases
Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or case.
- Price: $8.99
Screen Protectors
Protect your LCD screen from scratches and finger prints.
- Price: $11.90
Care & Cleaning
Ensure trouble-free performance through proper camera maintenance.
- Price: $73.95
- Add to cart for lower price
-
- Original: $4.99
- Save: $0.50
- Price: $4.49
Card Readers
Download your pictures faster and save battery life.
- Price: $8.99
Viewfinder Accessories
Adapt your camera for viewing through different angles.
- Price: $224.88
What's in the Box
- PS-BLS1 Lithium Ion Rechargeable Battery
- PS-BCS-1 Battery Charger
- Replacement Lens Cap for M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Micro 4/3 Lens
- 260056 LR-2 Rear Lens Cap For E-P1 Lenses
- USB/Video Multi Cable
- Shoulder Strap
- ib Software CD-ROM
- Instruction Manuals
- 1-Year Limited Warranty
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