Olympus E-P3 PEN Digital Camera with 14-42mm Lens (White)
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Blending the classic feel of an all metal body with the highly popular Micro Four Thirds trend in photography, Olympus presents their E-P3 PEN Digital Camera. This version of the E-P3 includes an ED m14-42mm II R f/3.5-5.6 zoom lens as well, to get you out shooting from day one. Highly desired for many reasons, Micro Four Thirds cameras provide an easily transportable body (this one with the look and feel that only a metal body can bring to hand) along with numerous lens options and the features and functions of a full-sized DSLR camera.
The E-P3 has a 12.3Mp Live MOS Sensor and the TruePic VI Image Processor which work together to produce stunningly detailed images at fast speeds. In addition, the camera also has Olympus' FAST AF Tracking System. FAST AF provides 35 focus points along with Tracking AF for fast and accurate focusing on each shot. Other performance considerations include the 12,800 ISO capabilities, an AF Illuminator, and a built-in flash, not to mention blazing shutter speeds with a response time of less than 60 milliseconds.
Still images can be taken using RAW, JPEG, or a combination of the two. And, 3D still images can even be captured as well in the MPO format. Of course, more than a still camera, the E-P3 also captures HD video. You can take up to 29 minutes of 1080/60i video in either AVCHD or AVI formats. No matter, video or still, all files can be stored to external flash memory, including SD, SDHC, SDXC, and UHS-1 cards. Olympus recommends Eye-Fi Class 6 cards for video recording.
The E-P3 has a bountiful set of on-camera controls and menu options, all of which are displayed on the beautiful 3.0" touch screen OLED display. As is one of the hallmarks of the Micro Four Thirds genre, small in size though it may be, the E-P3 is not short on options. Aside from a bevy of metering and exposures modes, the camera also hosts numerous picture modes, art filters, Live Guides, and white balance modes, among others. Your pictures will be truly your own, utilizing the full range of choices presented by the E-P3; you can even choose to shoot in panorama mode. Other highlights worth mentioning include 3 modes of image stabilization, noise reduction, and basic in-camera image editing.
- 12.3Mp Live MOS Sensor
- Utilizing Fine Detail Processing Technology for greater detail in the photograph, the sensor is optimized to maximize the performance of all M. Zuiko digital lenses in all shooting conditions
- TruePic VI Image Processor
- The TruePic VI Image processor delivers excellent dynamic range, expanded color accuracy and fidelity, plus reduced noise, all the way up to 12,800 ISO."Fine Detail Processing" technology captures more details in every nuance
- Lenses for Every Shooting Challenge
- The Olympus PEN MICRO Four Thirds family features eight fully-compatible MICRO Four Thirds lenses. The legendary Olympus Zuiko Digital Four Thirds range of 27 high-quality lenses, OM-series and other manufacturers' lenses can be attached to Olympus PEN cameras with optional adapters. The Olympus PEN E-P3 comes packaged with the movie and still compatible (MSC) ED m14-42mm II R f3.5/5.6 zoom lens (28mm-84mm equivalent)
- Fast AF
- To meet the demand for focusing speed, Olympus has introduced the FAST AF Tracking System. The FAST AF Tracking System features 35 focus points as well as Tracking AF to ensure fast and accurate focus each and every time
- Low Light Performance
- The E-P3 provides stellar low light performance with a combination of the AF illuminator, a built-in flash, and ISO up to 12,800
- Fast Shutter Response
- Never miss a shot again with fast shutter response time of less than 60 milliseconds
- HD Movie Capture
- A simple, one-touch button allows you to record movies with ease and simplicity, for up to 29 minutes of 1080i HD video. Choose between AVCHD or AVI for amazing clarity right from your camera
- 3.0" Touch Screen OLED (614K dots)
- The 3.0" display is a touch interface that gives you the ability to choose AF points, release the shutter, and navigate menus. The VGA equivalent display lets you see richer detail and smoother images with higher contrast and richer blacks
- Classic. Compact. All Metal.
- A classic, compact, all metal body offers maximum portability for capturing stunning photos and videos anywhere you care to take it
- Superior Image Quality
- A large 12.3Mp Live MOS Image Sensor delivers the highest quality images. Take great photos in low-light environments thanks to the camera's built-in flash, AF illuminator and ISO up to 12,800. To improve color and speed, the Olympus PEN E-P3 features the TruePic VI Image Processing Engine. Photos and HD videos taken with the PEN E-P3 will be crisp and clear thanks to three modes of in-body image stabilization. Image stabilization built into the camera's body enables photographers to take advantage of this feature with every lens. The camera's award-winning Supersonic Wave Filter patented Dust Reduction System vibrates to remove dust and other particles from the front of the image sensor, capturing it on an adhesive membrane every time the camera is turned on
- Blazing Speed
- The Olympus PEN E-P3 uses a variety of features to achieve speed rivaling that of the professional Olympus E-5 DSLR. Focus and shoot faster with the camera's 12.3Mp Live MOS Image Sensor, TruePic VI Image Processor and FAST AF Tracking System. The Olympus PEN E-P3 offers 35 separate focus points spread over nearly the entire sensor, enabling the camera to pin-point focus accuracy on small subjects wherever they appear in the frame. Selectable 3x3 groups within the 35-point area are especially effective when shooting active subjects. The camera's fast shutter response time ensures that you will never miss the shot, even in the toughest shooting environments
- Creative Freedom
-
Olympus PEN series cameras put you in the director's chair, offering even more freedom to the creative shooting experience and enabling instant experimentation, feedback and gratification. For the first time, the Olympus PEN E-P3 features full 1080 60i HD Video. Push the direct HD video button to instantly start filming your HD video with a choice between ACVHD and AVI formats with uncompressed CD-quality 16 bit/44.1KHz Linear PCM stereo recording or AC3 Dolby Digital Audio
In-camera features such as Art Filters, Multiple Exposure and In-Camera Editing enable photographers to capture the world as they see it. The Olympus PEN E-P3 features 10 Art Filters: Diorama, Pop Art, Soft Focus, Pale & Light Color, Light Tone, Grainy Film, Pin Hole, Cross Process, Gentle Sepia and Dramatic Tone. The camera also features nine Art Filter variations and enhancements, including Pale and Light Color II, and five Art Filter Effects, including new Star Light and White Edge. The Art Filter Bracketing function helps you develop multiple pictures utilizing different Art Filters with a single shot, making it possible to experiment with several different photographic effects at the same time. Photographers can use Art Filters in all shooting modes: shutter priority, aperture priority, manual and program auto modes for expanded control. All Art Filters can be applied to both still shots and Standard Definition or HD movies. Art Filters set the Olympus PEN E-P3's images and videos apart from the pack. Since they're built into the camera, Art Filters can help you achieve dramatic results on the go without the need for a computer or editing software
The Olympus PEN E-P3 shoots dynamic 3D photos in any situation from macro to landscape. Recreate a sense of depth like that of the original scene. Simply select the 3D Photo Mode, release the shutter, and slowly pan until the camera automatically takes a second image from a slightly different perspective. The 3D data is processed in-camera resulting in an .MPO file, the universal industry 3D format for easy display on 3D televisions or laptops
- Expanded Control Combined with Ease of Use
-
Controlling the Olympus PEN E-P3 is simple with its next-generation, three-inch, touch-sensitive 614,000 pixel OLED display. Consuming much less energy than the traditional LCD, this display has a wide 176 degree angle of view and is bright enough to compose images even in harsh midday light. With the camera's intuitive graphic user interface and touch screen, it is easy to capture a picture, change camera settings or navigate the Live Guide controls by simply touching the screen. Going through a day's photos is easy by scrolling through and enlarging photos with the tap of a finger
The Olympus PEN E-P3's built-in, pop-up flash makes it easy to illuminate low-light subjects, reduce red-eye and fill in dark areas. The camera is compatible with SDHC, SDXC and UHS-1 memory cards for greater speed and capacity and can be utilized with the Olympus PENPAL or various Eye-Fi cards for instant wireless uploads to your favorite social or photo sharing websites
Olympus has added a rotational dial, sub-dial and two function buttons to the back of the PEN E-P3 so photographers can make rapid changes to menu settings and maximize the camera's performance. With a thumb, photographers can adjust aperture and exposure time in an instant without switching between menu selections. Hands-on shooters will appreciate the two customizable buttons they can assign to favorite functions. Photographers will appreciate how the camera's mode dial enables access to basic settings
The Level Gauge in the Olympus PEN E-P3 is a tremendous benefit for architectural photographers who must ensure that images of buildings are as centered and true as the walls of the buildings themselves. This feature detects the camera's pitch and roll during Live View operation so photographers can make sure subjects appear where they should in the frame
Go To
| Imaging | |
|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Micro Four Thirds |
| Camera Format | Micro Four Thirds (2x Crop Factor) |
| Resolution |
Effective Pixels: 12.3 Megapixels |
| Sensor Type / Size | MOS, 17.3 x 13.0 mm |
| File Formats |
Still Images: JPEG, MPO, RAW Movies: MPEG-4 AVCHD Audio: IMA-ADPCM (Stereo) |
| Memory Card Type |
SD SDXC |
| Image Stabilization | Mechanical |
| AV Recording | |
|---|---|
| Video Recording | Yes |
| Aspect Ratio | 4:3, 16:9 |
| Audio Recording | With Video, Stereo |
| Focus Control | |
|---|---|
| Focus Type | Auto |
| Focus Mode | Single-servo AF (S), Continuous-servo AF (C), Manual Focus (M) |
| Viewfinder/Display | |
|---|---|
| Screen Coverage | 100% |
| Live View | Yes |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| ISO Sensitivity | 100-12800 |
| Shutter | 60 - 1/4000 sec |
| Metering Method | Spot metering, Center-weighted average metering |
| Exposure Modes | Modes: Aperture Priority, Manual, Shutter Priority |
| White Balance Modes | Auto, Cloudy, Daylight, Flash, Fluorescent, Shade |
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Connectivity | HDMI C (Mini), USB 2.0 |
| Power | |
|---|---|
| Battery | 1x BLS-1 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 4.8 x 2.7 x 1.4" / 12.19 x 6.86 x 3.56 cm |
| Weight | 11.32 oz / 321 g Body only |
| Kit Lens | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length |
14 - 42 mm Comparable Four Thirds and Micro 4/3 Focal Length: 28 - 84 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/3.5 Minimum: f/22 |
| Angle of View | 75° - 29° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 9.8" (24.89 cm) |
| Magnification | 0.19x |
| Groups/Elements | 7/8 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Filter Thread | Front: 37 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 2.2 x 1.9" (5.59 x 4.83 cm) |
| Weight | 4.0 oz (113 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 5 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
100%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Easy to use (3)
Cons
Best Uses
- Travel (3)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (4)
Reviewed by 5 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-5
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Olympus E-P3 PEN Digital Camera with 14-42mm Lens (White):
The definition of the images are incredible. I love how fast it is to focus the image and to take the photos. The lenses are fantastic because they aren't heavy at all so it's really easy to carry on.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Image Quality
- High ISO Performance
Cons
- No Viewfinder
- Poor Image Stabilization
Best Uses
Comments about Olympus E-P3 PEN Digital Camera with 14-42mm Lens (White):
Let's start off with the positive. This camera is awesome! For the semi-pro and amateurs looking for a smaller, lightweight alternative, look no further. I use a Canon 7D, and honestly, I find myself leaving the camera at home because it is just so bulky! I am able to pack this camera into a small purse and I still produce the same quality images. Not to mention the oohs and aahs and intsant Q&A session I receive from people when I pull it out. I also have a lot of fun with the built in filters, a feature that I thought I would never use because I'd rather process my images in Photoshop. But lo and behold, the black + white and lomo-style filters get used quite often. Great low light photos as well.
My only negative and it's a big negative, is that I tend to get a lot of blurry images when I use the Auto focus mode. All of the reviews I read praise this camera for its stabilization feature, and perhaps I'm doing something wrong, but 9 times out of 10, I'm getting slightly blurred photos if not outright blurry images. I would love advice from anyone about any settings to correct this.
At the end of the day, I love love love this camera and believe it's worth the price tag.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Fast Shutter Speed
- Good Battery Life
- Good in Low Light
- Great Resolution
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Small / Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Indoors/Low Light
- Sports/Action
- Travel
- Video
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Olympus E-P3 PEN Digital Camera with 14-42mm Lens (White):
I teach highschool photography and see many types and brands of cameras. I chose this one to be my main, personal camera. I really love it's size and the large live view screen. The touch screen options are fantastic.
- Ease of Operation:
- 9
- Was this a gift?:
- Yes
Pros
- Build Quality is tops
- Camera is very responsive
- Great lens selection
- HD video works better
- Image quality is great
- Improved Menu system
- In Camera Stabilization
- Interchangeable grip
- New OLCD looks great
- Optional Electronic VF
- PEN Styling
- Programmable buttons
- Size Weight
- Spot on exposure
- The Fast Auto Focus
- The flash is a nice
- The sub command dial
- Touch Screen
- Very good kit lens
Cons
- EXPENSIVE
- Shutter release location
- The 'wheel' adjuster
- Touch screen
Best Uses
- Family Photos
- Landscapescenery
- Macro Photography
- Travel
- Video
- Wildlife photos
Comments about Olympus E-P3 PEN Digital Camera with 14-42mm Lens (White):
This review is written from the viewpoint of the E-P3 being the key part in a complete system. If you are looking for a simpler point and shoot larger sensor camera I'd suggest checking out the E-PLx PEN models. I rarely use the kit lens which is very good for a kit lens.
I switched to the micro 4/3 format when the E-P1 came out. I chose it because of the retro PEN styling, build quality, image quality, interchangeable lenses, and light weight and small size (compared to full size DSLRs). It's a great option for those of us who want DSLR quality and versatility but can't or won't deal with DSLR weight and size. The E-P3 is a great upgrade to the PEN series. This is a very versatile camera but it's also the key piece in a complete camera system. With the micro 4/3 lenses I can easily carry a complete system in a much smaller size camera bag. The camera has 5 programmable buttons that get you quick access to the settings you use most. Unfortunately some functions can't be programmed to the buttons. The E-P3 is simple enough for beginners but has a huge potential for serious photographers. Even with all the improvements the E-P3 is not perfect, nor is any camera.
Things that I'd like to see improved:
---The wheel adjuster is awkward to use without pressing an unwanted option. This is a problem not only with this camera but with many cameras that use it. Or perhaps it's just my fat fingers.
---For me at least, the location of the shutter release button makes one handed operation perilous if not impossible. If I hold the camera in a natural secure position with my right hand, my pointer finger rests on the mode dial and I have to pull it back and change my grip to a less secure position to press the shutter release. I think they should swap the mode dial and shutter release positions.
--This one could probably be fixed with a firmware update: While the touch screen works better than I imagined it would, you have to disable it in the MENU system to effectively use an electronic viewfinder because while your nose touches the LCD you can't change any settings. This occurs even if you have the touch screen in disabled mode (one of the 3 options while it is enabled in the MENU system). Also it is not possible to program a button to toggle touch screen on/off.
---Programmable buttons are great but some options can't be programmed to a button and some of the buttons can't be turned off.
My opinion:
A camera is only as good as the photographer using it and a great photographer can get the best out of any camera while a mediocre photographer will only get mediocre results with any camera. I'm just glad that there are so many options available today. The micro 4/3 format has renewed my enthusiasm for photography. The best camera is the one you have with you and this format allows me to have an excellent camera with me more often.
- Ease of Operation:
- 7
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Battery Life
- Great Resolution
- Large Clear LCD
- Small / Compact
Cons
- Complicated Controls
- No Viewfinder
Best Uses
- Travel
Comments about Olympus E-P3 PEN Digital Camera with 14-42mm Lens (White):
I think it is a great small camera, pricy but the picture quality is great for it's size. Focus is excellent and fast. My go to travel camera and pictures close to my D700 in quality. Only issue is Adobe camera raw does not yet support the RAW files.
- Ease of Operation:
- 7
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-5
Memory Cards
Required item: Memory is not included so be sure to have enough storage capacity.
- Price: $13.95
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: $38.87
-
- Original: $19.95
- Save: $1.99
- Price: $17.96
Filters
Protect your lens or produce a desired visual effect.
- Price: $8.90
- Price: $35.95
Flash & Accessories
Get a flash to add light to your picture.
- Price: $169.00
Bags & Cases
Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or case.
- Price: $17.00
What's in the Box
- ED 14-42mm II R f/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens (28-84mm Equivalent)
- Li-ion battery BLS-1
- Li-ion Battery Charger BCS-1
- USB/Video Multi Cable
- Shoulder Strap
- OLYMPUS Viewer 2/ib CD-ROM
- User's Manual
- 1-Year Limited Warranty
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