amazon Olympus E-P1 reviews
The E-P1’s casing is carefully crafted to feel like they have a professional compact camera. E-P1’s sophisticated stainless steel frame gives you the impression of a powerful camera with glamorous looks. However, the machine is quite large, causing some difficulties for users in some cases.
Along with is elegant design, the E-P1’s user interface is simple and easy to use. The design of the buttons, the four navigation keys and the scroll wheel are very flexible and convenient.
The minus point is probably only in the design of the attached lenses. They are made of plastic will make many people unhappy, but a reasonable point when Olympus trying to reduce the weight of the lens to compensate for the body, so the body is quite heavy. However, the quality of the lens does not disappoint you.
E-P1’s automatic shooting mode does not deliver the expected quality, just like other Canon or Nikon DSLRs. However, if using the available IA shooting modes, the image quality is very good. One note on the trial is that the camera in the bright is not good, although not integrated flash.
E-P1 does not impress with video recording mode. It is capable of 720p video recording but does not use AVCHD codecs even in shortened versions. In addition, there are not many customizations for the user in this mode, E-P1’s video recording capabilities are good only for outdoor use.
Its attractive appearance, good lens quality, the E-P1 really brought a lot of interesting surprises. End-users can also achieve DSLR quality in a compact form factor. However, price, as well as limitations in video recording capabilities, have made it difficult for people who want to own a digital camera. While at the same level of money, you could end up owning better pictures with a Canon or Nikon DSLR.
where can you get a Olympus E-P1 online
Olympus PEN E-P1 12.3 MP Micro Four Thirds Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with 17mm f/2.8 Lens and Viewfinder (Silver): Buy it now
Olympus PEN E-P1 12 MP Micro Four Thirds Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens (Silver Body/Black Lens): Buy it now
Image Quality
The Olympus E-P1 features a 12.3-megapixel Live MOS sensor and the TruePic V image processor, which together deliver impressive image quality. The combination of these technologies allows the E-P1 to produce sharp, detailed images with vibrant colors and good dynamic range. Here’s a detailed look at its image quality:
- Resolution and Detail: With a 12.3-megapixel resolution, the E-P1 captures detailed images that are suitable for printing and cropping. The sensor performs well in various lighting conditions, producing sharp and clear photographs.
- Color Reproduction: Olympus is known for its excellent color science, and the E-P1 is no exception. The colors are vibrant yet natural, with good saturation and accurate skin tones. The camera’s JPEG processing is particularly impressive, often requiring minimal post-processing.
- Dynamic Range: The E-P1 handles dynamic range well, capturing a wide range of tones from shadows to highlights. This capability ensures that images retain detail in both bright and dark areas, providing a balanced and pleasing result.
- High ISO Performance: The E-P1 performs reasonably well at higher ISOs. While noise becomes more noticeable above ISO 800, the camera’s noise reduction algorithms do a decent job of preserving detail. Up to ISO 1600, the images remain usable, especially for smaller prints and online sharing.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the Olympus E-P1 offers a reliable and enjoyable shooting experience. Although it may not match the speed and responsiveness of contemporary models, it holds its own in various aspects:
- Autofocus System: The E-P1 uses a contrast-detect autofocus system, which is slower than the phase-detect systems found in DSLRs and modern mirrorless cameras. However, for most everyday scenarios, the AF performance is adequate. It includes several AF modes, such as single-area AF, multi-area AF, and face detection, catering to different shooting needs.
- Continuous Shooting: The E-P1 offers a continuous shooting speed of approximately 3 frames per second. While this may not be fast enough for action or sports photography, it is sufficient for casual use and capturing moments with moderate motion.
- Image Stabilization: The in-body image stabilization (IBIS) system is a notable feature of the E-P1. It helps to reduce camera shake, allowing for sharper images when shooting handheld, especially in low-light conditions or at slower shutter speeds.
- Battery Life: The camera uses a BLS-1 battery, which provides a moderate battery life of around 300 shots per charge. This is on the lower side compared to modern standards, so carrying a spare battery is advisable for longer shooting sessions.
Usability and Handling
The usability and handling of the Olympus E-P1 are significant factors that contribute to its overall appeal. Here’s an in-depth look at these aspects:
- User Interface: The user interface is straightforward and intuitive. The menu system is well-organized, making it easy to navigate and find settings. The Quick Menu provides rapid access to frequently used functions, enhancing the overall shooting experience.
- Customization: The camera offers several customizable buttons, allowing users to tailor the controls to their preferences. This flexibility is particularly useful for experienced photographers who require quick access to specific settings.
- Viewfinder: One of the limitations of the E-P1 is the lack of a built-in viewfinder. Users must rely on the LCD screen for composing shots. However, Olympus offers an optional external electronic viewfinder (VF-1) that can be attached to the hot shoe for those who prefer traditional framing.
- Size and Portability: The compact size and lightweight nature of the E-P1 make it an ideal choice for travel and street photography. It easily fits into a small bag or even a large pocket, ensuring that it’s always within reach when needed.
- Lens Compatibility: Being a Micro Four Thirds camera, the E-P1 is compatible with a wide range of lenses from Olympus, Panasonic, and third-party manufacturers. This versatility allows users to choose from various focal lengths and styles, catering to different photographic needs.
Video Capabilities
In addition to still photography, the Olympus E-P1 offers video recording capabilities. While it may not be as advanced as modern video-centric cameras, it provides a decent option for casual videography:
- Resolution and Frame Rate: The E-P1 can record video in 720p HD resolution at 30 frames per second. This was a standard resolution at the time of its release and provides good quality for most everyday video recording needs.
- Manual Controls: Unlike many point-and-shoot cameras of its time, the E-P1 allows for some manual control over video settings. Users can adjust exposure settings such as aperture and shutter speed, providing creative flexibility.
- Audio Quality: The camera has a built-in mono microphone, which is adequate for basic recording. However, it lacks an external microphone input, limiting audio quality for more serious video projects.
Conclusion
The Olympus E-P1 is a camera that successfully bridges the gap between classic design and modern digital technology. Its retro aesthetics, robust build quality, and impressive image performance make it a standout in the world of mirrorless cameras. While it may lack some of the advanced features found in contemporary models, it remains a reliable and enjoyable camera for everyday photography.
For beginners, the E-P1 offers an excellent introduction to the world of interchangeable lens cameras, providing a solid foundation for learning and growth. For enthusiasts and collectors, it represents a piece of photographic history with a unique charm and timeless appeal.
In conclusion, the Olympus E-P1 is more than just a camera; it’s a testament to Olympus’s innovative spirit and commitment to quality. Whether you’re capturing street scenes, traveling the world, or simply enjoying photography as a hobby, the E-P1 is a companion that will inspire creativity and deliver beautiful results for years to come.