OM SYSTEM Olympus PEN E-P3
| Brand | OM SYSTEM 2011 |
| Model | E-P3 w/14-42 White |
| Released Year | 2011 |
| Type | Mirrorless Cameras |
| Series | OLYMPUS PEN |
| Color | White |
| Compatible Mountings | Micro Four Thirds |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Photo Sensor Resolution | 12.3 MP |
| Video Resolution | 1080i |
| Optical Zoom | 3 x |
| File Format | AVCHD |
| Status | Discontinued |
Quick view
Overview
The Olympus PEN E-P3 is a compact mirrorless camera featuring a 12.3 megapixel Live MOS sensor that delivers high-resolution images and excellent color reproduction. It utilizes the Micro Four Thirds system, which offers a lightweight design without compromising image quality. The autofocus system includes a highly responsive 35-point contrast-detect AF for accurate and fast focusing performance. It supports a wide ISO sensitivity range from 100 to 12800, enabling low-light performance and flexibility. Video recording capabilities include Full HD 1080p at 30 frames per second, allowing smooth and detailed movie capture. The camera features a 3-inch OLED vari-angle touchscreen LCD that supports intuitive menu navigation and live view shooting from multiple angles.
Specifications
| Built-In Media | Battery, Instruction Manual |
| Are Batteries Included | Yes |
| Remote Included | No |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00050332179486 |
| UPC | 050332179486 |
| Item Height | 2.72 inches |
| Manufacturer | Olympus |
| Warranty Description | Limited 1 year parts and labor |
| Connectivity Technology | HDMI, USB |
| Wireless Technology | Yes |
| Video Output | HDMI |
| Total USB 2.0 Ports | 1 |
| Total USB Ports | 1 |
| Total Video Out Ports | 1 |
| Shooting Modes | Movie |
| Digital Scene Transition | zoom |
| Digital-Still | Yes |
| Movie Mode | Yes |
| Image Capture Type | Stills & Video |
| Auto Focus Technology | Continuous, Contrast Detection, Face Detection, Live View, Multi-area, Selective single-point, Single, Touch, Tracking |
| Focus Features | Contrast Detection |
| Autofocus Points | 35 |
| Focus Type | Auto Focus |
| Focus Mode | Continuous-Servo AF (AF-C) |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
| File Format | AVCHD |
| Effective Still Resolution | 12.3 |
| JPEG Quality Level | Fine |
| Total Still Resolution | 12.3 MP |
| Maximum Focal Length | 42 Millimeters |
| Optical Zoom | 3 x |
| Lens Type | Zoom |
| Zoom | Optical Zoom |
| Camera Lens | 14-42mm zoom lens |
| Minimum Focal Length | 14 Millimeters |
| Digital Zoom | 5 x |
| Lens Construction | 8 elements, 7 groups |
| Metering Methods | Multi, Center-weighted, Spot |
| Exposure Control | Manual, aperture priority, programmed ae, shutter priority |
| White Balance Settings | Auto |
| Self Timer | 10 Seconds |
| Screen Size | 3 Inches |
| Display Type | LCD |
| Dots Per Screen | 614000 |
| Display Fixture Type | Fixed |
| Touch Screen Type | Yes |
| Display Resolution Maximum | 614,000 |
| Has Color Screen | Yes |
| Flash Memory Type | SD/SDHC/SDXC card |
| Write Speed | 300 MB/s |
| Compatible Mountings | Micro Four Thirds |
| Sensor Type | CMOS |
| Image stabilization | Sensor-shift |
| Maximum Aperture | 3.5 Millimeters |
| Expanded ISO Minimum | 100 |
| Photo Sensor Resolution | 12.3 MP |
| Photo Sensor Size | Four Thirds (17.3 x 13 mm) |
| Maximum Shutter Speed | 1/4000 Seconds |
| Minimum Shutter Speed | 0.06 seconds |
| Form Factor | Mirrorless |
| Special Feature | Travel |
| Color | White |
| Item Weight | 0.81 Pounds |
| Video Resolution | 1080i |
| Viewfinder | No Built-in EVF, optional external EVF support |
| Flash Modes | Auto, On, Off, Slow Sync, Rear Curtain |
| Camera Flash | no flash |
| Compatible Devices | Micro Four Thirds |
| Continuous Shooting | 3 |
| Aperture modes | Manual, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority |
| Video Capture Format | AVCHD, Motion JPEG |
| Expanded ISO Maximum | 12800 |
| Battery Weight | 0.04 Pounds |
| Battery Cell Type | Lithium-Cobalt |
| Battery Average Life | 330 Photos |
| Battery Type | Lithium-Ion BLS-5 rechargeable battery & charger |
| Processor Description | TruePic VI |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Frame Rate | 60 FPS |
| Mount Type | Bayonet |
| Camera Type | Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera |
| Sensor | 12.3 MP Live MOS Sensor |
| Sensor Size | 17.3 x 13.0 mm (Micro Four Thirds) |
| Image Processor | TruePic VI |
| Lens Mount | Micro Four Thirds |
| Included Lens | 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Kit Lens (White) |
| ISO Sensitivity | 100-12800 |
| Autofocus System | Contrast-Detect AF with 35 Focus Points |
| Continuous Shooting Speed | Up to 3 fps |
| Shutter Speed Range | 1/4000 to 60 seconds |
| Video Recording | Full HD 1080p at 30 fps |
| LCD Screen | 3.0 inch Vari-Angle OLED Touchscreen, 614,000 dots |
| Storage Media | SD/SDHC/SDXC Cards |
| Connectivity | USB 2.0, HDMI Output |
| Battery | LI-50B Lithium-ion Rechargeable Battery |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 117 x 68.3 x 38 mm |
| Weight | Approximately 335 grams (body only) |
Images
Key Advantages
The Olympus E-P3 offers superior image quality in a compact body, perfect for photographers seeking portability with performance. Its high-speed autofocus system significantly reduces focusing time, ensuring sharp images in diverse shooting conditions. The vari-angle OLED touchscreen enhances usability, enabling clear viewing and easy operation. The inclusion of Live MOS sensor ensures reduced noise and better dynamic range in photos. Full HD video recording adds multimedia versatility to the device. Furthermore, compatibility with a wide array of Micro Four Thirds lenses expands creative possibilities for users.
Limitations
While the E-P3 provides a robust feature set, it lacks a built-in viewfinder which may challenge photographers in bright conditions. Battery life is moderate, typically supporting around 320 shots per charge, which may necessitate spare batteries for extended shoots. The JPEG processing speed is faster than raw file writing, but continuous shooting buffer capacity is limited to 3 frames per second for up to 10 shots. Low-light autofocus performance, though improved, may struggle compared to modern hybrid AF systems. The camera does not include modern wireless connectivity options such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for instant sharing. Its LCD screen, while bright and sharp, has limited resolution compared to newer models, potentially affecting manual focusing precision.
FAQ
What sensor does the Olympus PEN E-P3 use?
The Olympus PEN E-P3 uses a 12.3 megapixel Live MOS sensor designed for the Micro Four Thirds system.
Does the Olympus PEN E-P3 have built-in Wi-Fi connectivity?
No, the Olympus PEN E-P3 does not have built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity.
What is the autofocus system type on the Olympus PEN E-P3?
It features a contrast-detect autofocus system with 35 AF points for accurate focusing.
Can the Olympus PEN E-P3 record video?
Yes, it supports Full HD 1080p video recording at 30 frames per second.
What is the ISO sensitivity range of the Olympus PEN E-P3?
The ISO range extends from 100 to 12800, allowing good performance in various lighting conditions.
Does the Olympus PEN E-P3 have an electronic viewfinder?
No, it does not have a built-in electronic viewfinder, relying on its LCD for composition.
Is the Olympus PEN E-P3 compatible with Micro Four Thirds lenses?
Yes, it is fully compatible with Micro Four Thirds lenses, providing flexibility in lens choices.
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