Getaway Photo Gear Test: The Olympus PEN E-PL1

Although the Olympus Pen E-PL1 compact camera with interchangeable lenses can take DSLR-quality pictures, it’s not as bulky to carry around. The 19 different shooting modes are easy to use and there’s an art filter function that allows you to take fun pictures in different styles for a pop art, sepia or grainy film look. The aperture and shutter speed priority modes are available for the more advanced user but are simple enough for beginners to figure out.

Specs:
12.3 megapixels
2.7inch LCD screen fares well in sunlight.
HD Movie with stereo sound and depth of field and Art Filters

Photojournalist Fatima Jakoet says:
On the upside, it’s easy to carry around, takes really good quality pictures and has a built-in pop up flash (unlike its predecessor). However, there’s no viewfinder, the design makes it look old fashioned. The software provided isn’t Mac compatible.

Photojournalist Evan Haussmann says:
I like the retro look. The live view screen takes a little getting used to (especially in full daylight) but it’s not a deal-breaker. The interchangeable lens setup is great, now let’s get more third-party lens adapters to widen the options so we can play with our old primes. The HD video (720p) on this camera is a bonus at this price point.
But It’s disappointing that Mac is not supported out of the box.
Price: R7,999.00.

Compatible with the PEN cameras is the new Olympus M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 9 – 18 mm 1:4,0 – 5,6 lens. This ultra-light and compact wide zoom lens has a 35 mm equivalent focal range of 18 – 36 mm and offers a 100-degree angle of view – great for landscapes and interiors. Its fast-focus system also makes it ideal for HD video recording.