The Olympus E-P1 marks the formal introduction of the Olympus
Micro Four Thirds (4/3) camera system in the form of a high-quality,
sub-compact digital camera. Designed around a 12.3-megapixel (17.3 x
13mm) Live MOS imaging sensor, the E-P1 enables pro-quality still and
video imaging abilities in a small, unassuming package. Along with a
new line of compact M.Zuiko Digital lenses, the new system is
compatible with all existing 4/3-format fixed-prime and zoom lenses
from 7mm through 800mm (114° to 1.5° AOV).
Clad in ergonomically-designed stainless-steel body panels, the Olympus
E-P1 takes many design queues from the Olympus Pen F, a popular
half-frame SLR that made its initial debut in 1959. But unlike the
original Pen F, the E-P1 has the ability to produce vividly-detailed
still photographs and HD video with stereo sound, both of which can be
enhanced post-capture using the E-P1's advanced in-camera retouching
and audio dubbing tools.
Essentially a 4/3-format DSLR minus the prism and mirror housing (hence
the smaller body size), images can be composed and edited using the
E-P1's 3" HyperCrystal LCD, which features anti-reflective coatings on
its surface to enable Live viewing of 100% of the image area under the
brightest of lighting conditions. When shooting in manual focus, a 5x
magnification of the center of the frame pops up as a focusing aid each
time you adjust the focusing ring. (This magnification can be can be
manually increased up to 10x)
This kit includes a compact 14-42mm M.Zuiko Digital zoom lens, which
with an angle-of-view of 74-28.5 degrees, is an equivalent to a 28-85mm
lens on a full-frame DSLR.
Other features found on the Olympus E-P1 include Dust Reduction
technology, in-camera Image Stabilization, which enables low-light
hand-held shooting with all 4/3-system lenses, advanced shooting modes,
and creative post-capture editing tools.
