When the EP-1 hit town, I knew I HAD to get it.
Olympus says “It is not a point and shoot, it is not an SLR, it’s a PEN.”
The Olympus E-P1 marks an innovative new era in digital imaging. It is Olympus’ first Micro Four Thirds camera.
The Micro Four Thirds system is a standard created by Olympus and Panasonic. Such cameras have sensors that are about nine times larger than point and shoot cameras – but about 30-40% smaller than regular DSLR cameras – therefore producing better images. And because they eliminate the optical pentaprism and mirror that flips out of the way of the sensor when the shutter is pressed on a standard SLR camera, these cameras are smaller.
The E-P1 upholds the legacy of the celebrated Olympus PEN family of cameras, with the photographic optics of an SLR and the size and simplicity of a point and shoot. By using the half-frame format, Olympus was able to reduce both the weight and size of the Olympus PEN. I remember those days how happy we were over the fact that when we load a roll of 36-negative film, we could get 72 pictures! Because of that, cumulative sales of PEN Series cameras exceeded 17 million units.
Now the PEN has gone digital!
Combining the still image quality of a DSLR with the A/V quality of both a High Definition camcorder and high-end audio recorder, the E-P1 is a virtual full-service imaging studio in one ultra-portable and stylishly retro body. With dozens of advanced features, the E-P1 makes documenting and sharing your everyday life easier and more creative than ever before.
The E-P1 is the world’s smallest 12.3 megapixel interchangeable lens system camera, yet has the creative flexibility to give you a true professional experience with ease. I purchased both the 17mm f2.8 lens as well as the 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 lens and the electronic viewfinder.
The E-P1 delivers image quality that makes the difference between ordinary and exceptional still and video imaging. A Live MOS image sensor is complemented by a next generation TruePic V Image Processor, resulting in excellent dynamic range, accurate color fidelity, fine image details in all highlight and shadow areas, and reduced noise.
As for movies, because the E-P1’s image sensor is much larger than those used in HD video cameras, the camera delivers even higher image quality.
Now you know why I HAD to get it.