Review of the system camera Olympus PEN Mini (E-PM1). Post-processing and art filters

The camera captures images with a maximum size of 4608 x 3456 pixels, which is approximately 16 MP. The same Live MOS Sensor can be found in the models, E-PM2, E-PL6 and in the OM-D series:, E-M5, E-M10, but of course this does not mean that the image quality from these cameras will be identical.

A great feature of the Pen E-P5 is the built-in stabilization system that works in 5-directions (5-axis). Indeed, the camera has a very good stabilizer, and you can use cheaper lenses without a stabilizer. In the menu, you can very flexibly configure the operation of the stabilization system, as well as the priority of the stabilization system when using lenses that also have a stabilizer.

If you go a little deeper into theory, then a 16 MP sensor with 2X has a very low diffraction threshold. If we were making full-frame cameras with the same physical pixel dimensions as the Pen E-P5, we would end up with a 64 MP camera :) To simplify a little, such a sensor requires good optics.

Pen E-P5 with a Soviet rangefinder lens mounted through an ‘M39-Micro 4/3’ adapter

The camera can use ISO values \u200b\u200bfrom 200 to 25.600. However, there is one trick. After you turn on ISO 6400 and above, the display shows the inscription 'Extended'. In fact, the base ISO range is 200-5000. You can also enable ISO LOW, which is equivalent to ISO 100. When you select ISO 200 or ISO Auto, 'Recommended' appears. Personally, I do not like inflated ISO values, such as ISO 25.600, since in practice there is no point in shooting at these values.

In my opinion, the camera is very aggressive at suppressing noise at high ISO values, creating a "smooth" picture, while completely depriving it of details. See the noise level at different ISO values \u200b\u200bfor yourself, in the archive of images.

The camera can operate in Auto-ISO mode, and the ISO range can be set from 200 to 25.600 units. You cannot set the ISO threshold to 100 and the minimum value, and the Auto ISO function does not work in ‘M’ mode. By the way, Auto-ISO can be enabled in the menu not only for modes P, A, S, but also for others.

E-P5 can shoot at maximum speed 9 frames per secondwhich is impressive. True, not very large.

Buffer:

• At any quality setting, about 17-18 shots will fit in RAW format.
• Approx. 30 JPEG L Fine 4: 3 images when shot with image enhancing features such as noise reduction, vignetting control, etc. disabled.
• About 15 JPEG images with advanced settings enabled.

Note that the camera automatically corrects many lens flaws, such as distortion and vignetting, so it is difficult to see the “bare” operation of the lens.

The package does not include a lens hood. This lens is suitable for most photography tasks. The M.Zuiko 14-42mm 1: 3.5-5.6 IIR MSC can serve as the first lens to give the wearer a feel for the camera's capabilities and make sketches for buying one or another higher quality lens for specific tasks.

Circles in the area of \u200b\u200bconfusion on a closed diaphragm. Traces of poorly polished rear lens visible.

Important: lenses for Micro 4/3 are suitable for all cameras of this system. For example, Olympus M.Zuiko Micro 4/3 lenses can be used without problems on Panasonic G cameras, which also belong to the Micro Four Thirds standard.

The archive with the original photos in RAW format can be downloaded from this link (557 MB, 39 photos).

You can find prices for modern Olympus cameras in popular stores.

In comments can I ask you a question on the topic and you will definitely answer, and you can also give your opinion or describe your experience. For the selection of photographic equipment, I recommend large catalogs of various photographic equipment, such as E-katalog, or large online stores, such as Rozetka. A lot of photo trivia can be found on Aliexpress.

Outcome

Olympus Pen E-P5 is a very nice functional tool. Perfect for everyone who wants to quickly get a high-quality picture, as well as for advanced users who like to dig deeper into the menu and shoot with different lenses. M.Zuiko 14-42mm 1: 3.5-5.6 IIR MSC is a simple stock lens, considering the cost of Olympus Pen E-P5, I would not spare the money and bought better optics for such a camera.

Remark: from time to time I come across Nikon , but somehow there was no need to dig deeper. Probably (I will say seditiousness!), There is no such difference between the two sworn friends, Kenon and Nikon. Olympus is different. Not worse, not better - just different.

E - system

4/3 system (aka E - system ): The first DSLR system designed from the ground up. Competitors have - to one degree or another - "docked" digital SLR cameras with existing lines of lenses and accessories. The E-system was developed practically from scratch. The cameras are listed in chronological order.

E -1

At the end of 2003, Olympus introduced his first digital SLR camera - Olympus E -1. The model is the result of collaboration Olympus and Kodak in digital technology, which was announced in February 2001. Olympus E -1 also became the company's first SLR camera since the collapse of the OM system in 2000/2002. Fans of the brand greeted the model coolly: a camera with a higher resolution matrix was expected. The model was equipped with CCD production matrix Kodak , size 18 * 13.5 mm and a resolution of 4.9 megapixels. The E-1 is distinguished by interesting design findings and technical innovations. The body is made of magnesium alloy, the camera is protected from dust and moisture, an effective system for cleaning the matrix from dust is applied SSWF ... Display 1.8 inches. Dimensions 141 * 104 * 81 and weight 735 grams.

And Olympus continues to bend its line on the fact that in digital photography the quality of lenses is more important than multi-pixel matrices.

E-300 (aka EVOLT E-300)

Criticism of "low-pixel" increased in 2004. It is clear that fans of the brand should not have been disappointed, and Olympus announced at the end of the year Olympus E-300 equipped CCD matrix from Kodak with an effective resolution of 8 megapixels. Having calmed down with the new pixel count, critics turned to the model's indistinct design: a flat top, which was explained by the use of the system's viewfinder Porro (instead of the usual pentaprism, the image was transmitted to the viewfinder through a system of 4 mirrors). The larger number of pixels, however, does not mean that the E-300 is a device of the same class with E-1: The model marked the beginning of the Olympus line of consumer digital SLR cameras. Aluminum body, ISO only 100-400 (although "expandable" to 800 and 1600). Size 147 * 85 * 64, weight with battery 624 grams, without - 580 grams.

E-500 (EVOLT E -500)

A year later, Olympus surprised fans by releasing a new DSLR model in September: Olympus E -500. And not the long-awaited continuation of the "first" series, but a replacement E -300, with a more traditional design. The specs have remained largely unchanged, but the E-500 is starting to compete with entry-level models from Canon and Nikon ... Size 130 * 95 * 66, weight - 479 grams.

E -330

Spring 2006 Olympus announces a new model of the camera E-systems: Olympus E -330. This is the world's first digital SLR camera with the "Live-View" or Live Preview system so familiar to all owners of compact digital cameras. News, except for the system Live View , the E-330 has a new matrix LiveMOS from Panasonic with 7.5 effective megapixels, 2.5-inch flip-out display with a resolution of 215,000 pixels, new 49-zone meter. System viewer remained unchanged Porro and ISO 100-400. Dimensions 140 * 87 * 72. Weight with battery 617 grams, without - 539. Shown 4 / 3rds cooperation it is equipped with 7.4 megapixel Live-MOS images from Panasonic, its new partner.

E -400

In the fall of 2006, everyone was waiting for a replacement Olympus E -1. Olympus has announced the world's smallest and lightest digital SLR - Olympus E -400. The E-400 launched the entry-level Olympus line of digital SLR cameras. The firm began to take advantage of the 4/3 system to make miniature cameras. The matrix Kodak, CCD 10 Mp. Size 130 * 91 * 53, weight 435 grams with batteries, 375 without. For some unknown reason, the model was not officially delivered to the United States.

E-410 (EVOLT E-410)

It was announced in the spring of 2007 - six months after the release of its predecessor. Almost repeats the characteristics Olympus E -400, but uses a 10MP sensor LiveMOS from Panasonic.

E-510

Successor of the case Olympus E -500, announced simultaneously with Olympus E -410 in March 2007, E-510 - a camera designed to streamline the line of digital "DSLRs" from Olympus: 4th series - entry-level cameras, 5th - for advanced amateurs. The characteristics are similar to both the E-410 and the E-500. Identical with Olympus E -410 matrix with mode Live View , display 2.5 inches. The main innovation and difference is the in-camera image stabilization system, which makes all lenses stabilized. The camera differs from its "little brother" in size and weight: 136 * 92 * 68, 535 grams with batteries, 460 - without.

E -3

Long-awaited replacement Olympus E-1 did not appear until 4 years later: E-3 was announced in October 2007. For digital photography, the time frame is very long. E-3 in line Olympus occupied the top position and at the time of exit competed with Canon 40 D and Nikon D 300. Matrix 10.1 Mp, Live View , in-camera image stabilization, magnesium housing, dust and moisture protection, ISO 100-3200, 2.5-inch movable display - very good specs. Marketers have also drawn consumer attention to the new 11-point autofocus system, a 100% coverage viewfinder, shutter speeds up to 1/8000, and 5fps continuous shooting. Surprisingly, there is no autofocus illumination lamp - a built-in flash is used, as in the younger models. Size 142 * 116 * 75, weight 800 grams.

E-420

Olympus E -420 appeared a year after E-410, in March 2008. The cameras are nearly identical except for a few minor changes, the most notable of which was the slightly larger (2.7 inches) display. Dimensions 129.5 * 91 * 53, weight with battery 445 grams, without - 380 grams.

E -520

Announced 2 months after Olympus E -420 - in May 2008. Traditionally for Olympus there are practically no changes compared to its predecessor. The display is slightly larger (2.7 inches), the stabilization system is slightly better, the menu system has been changed (as in the E-420). The rest is unchanged.

E -30

Released in December 2008 and took intermediate in the lineup Olympus position between the "top" E-3 and the amateur 5th series. Two-digit Olympus is designed to compete Canon 50 D, Nikon D 3000 and Sony A -700. Compared to the E-3, there is no dust and moisture protection, the body is made of plastic, the viewfinder is smaller (98%). However, the display is larger (2.7 inches), there is an in-camera autofocus adjustment function (up to 20 lenses), built-in digital level, and most importantly: a new 12.3 megapixel LiveMOS matrix from Panasonic ... Dimensions 142 * 108 * 75 mm, weight - 695 grams without battery, 768 grams - with battery.

E -620

Announced March 2009. Probably, the 6th series came to replace the 5th - in order to increase the lead over the entry-level cameras of the 4th series. In size it is closer to the entry-level cameras, but in functionality - to the two-digit series. Viewfinder with 95% coverage, 7-point autofocus, 2.7-inch movable display, ISO 100-3200. Size 130 * 94 * 60, weight with batteries 521 grams.

E-450

March 2009 - another variation of the 4th series from Olympus ... Almost identical to the E-420, except that it uses a new processor. An attempt to extend the life of a very successful model.

E-600

Stripped-down model T -620, officially shipped to America only. Announced in September 2009.

E -5

Announced September 14, 2010. Declared (compared to Olympus E -3) about a new processor, a new 12.4 megapixel matrix, a three-inch movable display with a resolution of 921,000 pixels, a video recording function, ISO 6400 and using memory cards SD and CF ... Size 142 * 116 * 75, weight - 813 grams.

29.01.2011

Olympus E-5 review - digital camera test, specifications, functions, reviews and impressions, test shots, comparison of image quality Olympus E-5 and Canon 7D

The Olympus E-5 mirror device, like the previous flagship of the E-3 system, comes in a protected case. Matrix 12 megapixels, two-dimensionally rotatable monitor 3 "high resolution 920,000 pixels, live view mode with contrast autofocus, 5 frames per second continuous shooting, shutter speed up to 1/8000 second, 720p HD video recording.

BRIEF CHARACTERISTICS

The main differences between the Olympus E-5 and the E-3 are as follows:

• The matrix resolution is increased to 12 Mp (compared to 10 Mp).
• The monitor remained rotatable, but its size and resolution increased (3 "and 920,000 dots versus 2.7" and 230,000 dots).
• The bracketing series can now have 2, 3, 5 or 7 frames (previously only 3).
• The sensitivity range has expanded to ISO 6400 (versus ISO 3200).
• Art filters have been added to the color modes (the influence of the PEN mirrorless ruler).
• Video shooting HD 720p appeared (there was no video at the E-3, or even in 4/3 DSLRs).
• Contrast autofocus has been added in live view mode.
• An electronic level has appeared (in two coordinates, as in the E-30 model).
• There is a function of face recognition, multiple exposure, various aspect ratios.
• Added a third image stabilizer mode (for vertical tracking).
• There is now an accurate adjustment of autofocus for different lenses (as in the model E-30).
• Now you can add copyright information.
• An HDMI output and a stereo microphone jack appeared (which could not have been before, since there was no video recording).
• SD is now supported instead of xD memory cards (while the second slot for Compact Flash is retained).
• New BLM-5 battery with increased capacity (BLM-1 compatibility remains).
• There have been changes in ergonomics (the set and location of buttons on the rear panel), the menu has been improved.

Since it took about three years between the E-3 and E-5 models, many expected a more impressive leap in specifications. The most criticized is the matrix resolution, which is 12 megapixels - by today's standards, this parameter looks somewhat insufficient. Let us recall that the mirror models of competitors coming out now are mainly equipped with 15-18 megapixel matrices.

However, not everything is determined by megapixels. Moreover, according to leading developers at Olympus, the company does not prioritize megapixels at all. The main thing is the final quality of the picture (it's hard to disagree with this). An optimal balance is needed between optics, sensor and processor (see our interview with Toshiyuki Terada (SLR Product Planning) and Yukihita Sugita (General Manager of SLR Product Planning Department) in September 2010).

The main idea is as follows.

In modern digital cameras, a low-pass filter is placed in front of the sensor, which slightly diffuses the incident light in order to avoid moiré in the image and the appearance of color artifacts - at the cost of some reduction in per-pixel clarity. This traditional method is illustrated with an Olympus E-30 DSLR.

In the Olympus E-5, the role of the low-pass filter is reduced, part of its work - removing moiré and other artifacts - is entrusted to the new TruePic V + processor, which allows for higher image detail.

According to the Olympus developers, the image obtained using the E-5 with high-end lenses is not inferior in detail to the image of the Nikon D300s (the matrix is \u200b\u200balso 12 megapixel, but of a larger physical size, APS-C format), and even the Canon EOS 7D (matrix of the APS-C format with a resolution of 18 MP).

Of course, this aroused our keen interest. Especially considering that Olympus has decided to focus on the production of PEN mirrorless devices, that is, devices of the Micro-4/3 standard, which primarily support the optics of the corresponding standard. The development of low-end and mid-level 4/3 standard SLR cameras has been discontinued, only the flagship SLR model will be produced (at the moment it is E-5, in the future it may be updated, and in the future - a transition to mirrorless cameras within the 4/3 standard) ... Thus, the owners of low-end Olympus 4/3 SLR cameras, who have accumulated a certain 4/3 optics fleet, have, by and large, only one upgrade prospect - the flagship E-5.

In short, you probably already understand why we pay so much attention to comparing the Olympus E-5 with the Canon EOS 7D. We have recently published a comparative test of optical stabilizers of these models, and as part of today's review we will devote several pages to comparing image quality, primarily in terms of resolution and noise.

The buttons turned out to be effective in appearance - transparent, recessed into the protective surface of the display. Style and simplicity go hand in hand with this camera.

Screen, viewfinder

There is no built-in viewfinder in the Olympus E-PM1, and the optical is not provided for by the design (or even philosophy), not only of this model, but in general of all mirrorless cameras. You can buy it as a separate accessory, but then the whole point of buying a budget mirrorless becomes zero.

The AMOLED screen is the main difference between the camera and the older models of the PEN line. It is not touch-sensitive, nor is it a leader in resolution (only 460,000 pixels at a 3-inch diagonal). The display is readable in the sun: firstly, because of the matrix technology itself, and secondly, due to the fact that the protective plastic is flavored with an anti-reflective coating. The space between the screen and the protective cover is minimal, so the viewing angles are close to 180 degrees. The brightness and contrast raises no objections, and the black color turns out to be really black, which again is a merit of the AMOLED technology.

Functionality and work experience

As a reminder, the E-PM1 comes with an Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 14-42 / 3.5-5.6 lens. Taking into account the crop factor, the focal length of the lens in 35mm equivalent is 28-84mm, which is enough to cover 90% of typical shooting scenes.

A characteristic feature of this lens is its compact size. In the off state, it folds into the body and becomes twice as short as in the working position. In general, the same design is used in compact lenses Lumix, Samsung NX, and Nikon 1. However, Panasonic went even further and released an ultra-compact lens with electric zoom and focus. And it can also be used on Olympus cameras as both companies present the same Micro Four Thirds system. You can also use any Four Thirds optics through a special adapter.

The camera has a very nice main menu. In it, you can switch between shooting modes with digital filters, smart auto, scene programming and video shooting. There are all the necessary shooting modes for advanced photographers - shutter speed and aperture priority, fully manual mode and programmed AE. Once you get here, you get the widest range of settings, but the chance of getting a bad shot, especially if you don't understand the technical part, will be higher.

In an effort to create a friendly and simple interface, Olympus hid the two settings screens in depth, and their display can only be enabled through a dedicated menu. This is where the possibility of reassigning buttons on the case lies.

• Excellent image quality, especially from RAW files
• Wide dynamic range like 4/3 (Four Thirds) sensor
• Very good performance at high ISOs
• Realistic colors and high tint accuracy
• Despite the absence of an AA filter ( anti-aliasing low-pass filter, the absence of this filter gives a higher sharpness, increasing detail)practically no moiré, although it can appear in HD video
• Fast autofocus speed and minimal shutter lag
• Ability to focus in very low light conditions
• High continuous shooting speed of 8 fps at full resolution (with autofocus on the first frame only)
• Decent buffer size for its class
• High quality Full HD video in H.264 format; good detail and colors
• High resolution electronic viewfinder
• High Resolution Tilting LCD Touch Screen
• The refresh rate in EVF is very fast (not as fast as with an optical viewfinder, but excellent for an electronic viewfinder)
• Built-in flash supports Olympus wireless RC flash system
• Hot shoe for external flash
• Mechanical image stabilization (due to matrix shift along three axes)
• Built-in Wi-Fi with remote control, Live View and tap-to-focus function, plus exposure control via app
• Compact and lightweight (119 x 82 x 46 mm; 515 g)
• Lots of options to manage settings
• Very good value for money. As of this writing, the average price for a kit with a 14-42 kit lens is $ 900.

Disadvantages:

• Auto white balance is too warm in the room
• HDR mode is not as good as expected
• Hard software noise reduction at high ISO
• No Sweep Panorama mode (Requires PC stitching software)
• Slow continuous shooting with continuous AF (3.5 fps)
• Contrast AF system has difficulty focusing on small and low-contrast subjects
• Average battery endurance
• Weak built-in flash
• No jack for external microphone
• No headphone jack to monitor audio while recording video
• No HDMI output for uncompressed video
• Motion JPEG (AVI) video quality is poor (retains many compression artifacts)
• Missing weather seal
• Olympus menu system confusing and unwieldy

In terms of performance, the E-M10 is a unique camera that fuses elements of Olympus' flagship E-M1 and the first in the series, the OM-D E-M5. The new camera has a faster image processor, an increased number of contrast focusing zones and a similar sensor without an AA filter (as in the E-M1). In addition, the E-M10 is even more compact than the E-M5, making it an excellent companion for everyday photography.

Although the E-M10 uses a leisurely contrast-detect autofocus system, it does a great job of focusing in most shooting situations except for very fast moving subjects. For example, for photographing sports or wildlife, it is preferable to use a DSLR camera with phase-detection AF. Whether you are into street and landscape photography or looking for a camera to take on a trip, the E-M10 caters to high performance and fantastic image quality with the ability to capture sharp, detailed photos with excellent dynamic range for its class.

Of course, there were some compromises. Some have become a necessity in order to bring down the price or differentiate the E-M10 from other OM-D cameras, but there are typical Olympus quirks, such as a convoluted menu system and features such as the highest quality JPEG selection and Super Control Panel.

The E-M10 borrows the number of AF points (81) from the E-M1, but does not inherit its Hybrid AF system, so the E-M10 can have difficulty focusing on low contrast, fast-moving or very small subjects such as birds. Also, the new camera lacks weather seal and more advanced video-oriented specifications: external microphone jack and headphone jack. Although there is no microphone connection to the E-M5 either. The E-M10 offers a choice of video format H.264 or Motion JPEG, MJPEG quality is poor and not available in Full HD.

The E-M10 significantly improves HD video quality over other entry-level Olympus interchangeable lens cameras with built-in Wi-Fi and many customizable features, dials and buttons. Overall, the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages of this compact system camera. The Olympus E-M10 is a great choice not only for first-time photographers buying an interchangeable lens camera, but also for the more advanced enthusiast looking for more control over settings. With the E-M10, Olympus stated that “OM-D Cameras for Everyone,” it is.