Tag: M.Zuiko

Finally – Got the Olympus OM-D E-M5!


It’s Beautiful! I got the black one – obviously. Color is all personal taste, and the all black model just appealed to me more, plus I think it makes it just a bit less obtrusive when shooting out in public. Some lenses are black and some are silver, so either color you choose is going to have some contrast depending on which lens you have mounted.


So far, I’m loving just about everything about the camera … it’s fast and responsive, takes very nice images, is extremely customizable, it’s small and light, and is just a joy to use.

Since I’ve only had it four days, I won’t go into any details about using the camera or image quality, but will have more about all of that, soon, so please come back.

Full Review of Olympus OM-D E-M5 Posted at DPReview!

DPReview.com has finally posted its full review of the Olympus OM-D E-M5.

They have lots of good things to say including, “…the E_M5 is one of the best looking cameras we’ve encountered in some time.” (I agree.)

They go on to give the camera an 80% rating and their prestigious Gold Award: “The E-M5 is without question, the most accomplished Micro Four Thirds camera we’ve yet seen, and given how well established the system has become, it vies for the title of most capable mirrorless option yet.” Here, I think they are talking about it as a “system” and the established large number of lenses and other accessories that are available.

As usual, DPReview presents a great, unbiased, and thorough look at every nuance of the E-M5, pointing out its many strengths, a few weaknesses, and an in depth look at the possibilities.

So, go take a look. If you’re already committed, then you’ll feel even better about your decision. If you’re still on the fence, it just might knock you off – in favor of the E-M5. And if you’re not interested … well, then it still makes for good comparative reading.

Now, the BIG question ……… is Amazon going to come through with tomorrow’s delivery (to me), or continue to keep me frustrated? I’ll let you know.

Images from the Olympus PEN E-PL1

I’ve had the little Olympus PEN E-PL1 for just over two weeks now and thought I would share some sample images.

I’m enjoying the camera a lot but find I REALLY need a viewfinder when shooting outdoors in bright light – the screen just isn’t bright enough, plus since I don’t wear glasses (and I need to) I have a hard time telling if it’s in focus or not.

What I love about the camera is that it takes high quality images up to a reasonable ISO of about 800 and still okay for some applications above that. As a habitual “tinkerer”, I also really appreciate the deep menu system that allows a high level of customizability. Lastly, at current prices – I’ve seen body only for $150 online – I think this camera is a steal, especially if you’re a micro four thirds (m43) user and can share lenses with another m43 camera. (Like the Olympus OM-D E-M5 whenever it finally gets here!)

These images were all taken with the Olympus PEN E-PL1 using the 14-42mm kit lens. They were shot at various ISO’s and some have had some processing done.

This black and white was done in Nik Silver Efex Pro.

The following two images were done with “Light Painting” … darkened room, 10 second exposure, and lighting with a flashlight.

Latest Addition to My Bag – Olympus E-PL1

Olympus PEN E-PL1 w/M.Zuiko 14-42mm lens

While waiting for the Olympus OM-D E-M5 to ship (mid-April, hopefully), I decided to get an early start at learning the Olympus system. After doing some reading, I decided on the Olympus PEN E-PL1.

While I haven’t studied every camera available, the E-PL1 has to be one of the best values available, today. On Amazon, it’s only $289 (w/14-42mm lens), and I’ve seen refurbished models at less than $200 … amazing for a camera of this quality and with these features!

The camera is about the same size as the E-M5 and as far as I can tell the menu system is very similar. It has a 12.3 Megapixel sensor, plus it uses the same lenses as the E-M5. Other features include:

  • IBIS (In Body Image Stabilization), so every lens can be stabilized
  • HD Movie mode
  • Built-in (popup) flash with Wireless Control capability
  • Dust Reduction System that vibrates the sensor every time the camera is turned on
  • Many built-in effects and scene modes
  • And much, much more
The extensive menu system allows you to customize the camera so it works the way you do, and the Super Control Panel makes it so easy to change most of the common settings, like ISO, White Balance, Picture Effects, Auto-Focus Mode, Metering, Image Quality, and others.
After just two days, I don’t feel qualified to do a complete review of this wonderful little camera, but I’m sure you can tell I really like what I’m seeing, so far. I think the E-PL1 is going to be a perfect complement to the E-M5 once it arrives.

Now, after getting my hands on this little beauty, I’m even more excited about the E-M5!