OM SYSTEM PEN E-P3 image

OM SYSTEM PEN E-P3

Quick information
Brand OM SYSTEM 2011
Model V204031BU000
Released Year 2011
Type Mirrorless Cameras
Series PEN
Color Black
Compatible Mountings Micro Four Thirds
Autofocus Contrast Detection AF with multiple AF points
Photo Sensor Resolution 12.3 MP
Video Resolution 1080p
Optical Zoom 3
File Format AVCHD, AVI
Status Discontinued
Quick view

Overview

The OM SYSTEM PEN E-P3 is a compact mirrorless camera launched in 2011, featuring a Micro Four Thirds sensor with 12.3 megapixels resolution. It utilizes a Live MOS sensor which balances image quality and power efficiency effectively. This camera supports interchangeable lenses compatible with the Micro Four Thirds system, expanding photographic versatility. The E-P3 is equipped with a built-in 3.0-inch OLED touchscreen LCD, offering vibrant, clear image preview and intuitive control. Autofocus is enhanced via a contrast-detection system with multiple AF points for improved subject acquisition. Additionally, the camera supports Full HD video recording at 1080p, employing advanced video compression technology for efficient storage.

Specifications

Built-In Media Camera Body & Lens
Are Batteries Included Yes
Remote Included No
Series Number 204
Global Trade Identification Number 00050332179462
UPC 050332179462
Item Height 2.72 inches
Manufacturer Olympus
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 No
Movie Mode Yes
Image Capture Type 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 Automatic with Manual
Focus Mode Continuous-Servo AF (AF-C)
Autofocus Contrast Detection AF with multiple AF points
File Format AVCHD, AVI
Effective Still Resolution 12.3
JPEG Quality Level Fine
Supported Image Format JPEG
Bit Depth 14 Bit
Total Still Resolution 12.3 MP
Maximum Focal Length 42 Millimeters
Optical Zoom 3
Lens Type Micro Four Thirds
Zoom Optical Zoom
Camera Lens Standard Zoom Lens for Micro Four Thirds
Real Angle Of View 75 Degrees
Digital Zoom 5 x
Lens Construction [10 elements, 9 groups]
Metering Methods Multi, Center-weighted, Spot
Exposure Control Manual
White Balance Settings Auto
Crop Mode 4:3
Screen Size 3 Inches
Display Type OLED
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
Recording Capacity 31 Minutes
Write Speed 3 fps
Flash Memory Video Speed Class 6
Flash Memory Bus Interface Type SD
Compatible Mountings Micro Four Thirds
Sensor Type CMOS
Image stabilization Sensor-shift
Expanded ISO Minimum 3200
Photo Sensor Resolution 12.3 MP
Photo Sensor Size Four Thirds
Maximum Shutter Speed 1/4000 Seconds
Minimum Shutter Speed 60 seconds
Form Factor Mirrorless
Special Feature Travel
Color Black
Item Weight 0.81 Pounds
Video Resolution 1080p
Viewfinder No built-in viewfinder
Flash Modes Auto, On, Off, Slow Synch
Camera Flash Built-In
Skill Level Professional
Compatible Devices Micro Four Thirds cameras
Continuous Shooting Up to 7 fps
Aperture modes F2.8-F5.6
Flash Sync Speed 1/180_sec
Video Capture Format avchd;avi
Expanded ISO Maximum 12800
Battery Weight 25 Grams
Delay between shots 0.33 seconds
Battery Cell Type Lithium Ion
Battery Average Life 330 Photos
Battery Type Lithium-Ion BLS-5 rechargeable battery & charger
Processor Description TruePic VI
Water Resistance Level Not Water Resistant
Model PEN E-P3
Release Year 2011
Camera Type Mirrorless
Sensor 12.3 MP Live MOS, Micro Four Thirds
Image Processor TruePic VI
Lens Mount Micro Four Thirds
Lens Compatibility Interchangeable lenses (Micro Four Thirds System)
ISO Range 100-6400 (expandable)
Display 3.0-inch OLED touchscreen LCD, 614k dots
Video Recording Full HD 1080p at 30fps, MOV H.264
Shutter Speed 1/4000 to 60 sec
Storage Media SD/SDHC/SDXC
Battery Rechargeable Li-ion battery
Dimensions 121.5 x 68 x 42.5 mm
Weight 335 grams (body only)
Connectivity USB 2.0, HDMI output
Flash Built-in Pop-up Flash
Image Stabilization Lens-based (no in-body stabilization)
White Balance Auto, Custom, Preset modes
Discontinued Yes

Key Advantages

The PEN E-P3 excels in providing professional-level image quality packed in a compact body, making it ideal for travel and street photography. Its OLED touchscreen offers exceptional brightness and color accuracy, improving user interaction and menu navigation. The camera’s use of the Micro Four Thirds sensor ensures a good balance between size and image resolution. Fast shutter speeds and a responsive autofocus system facilitate sharp, clear shots even in dynamic conditions. Compatibility with a broad range of Micro Four Thirds lenses enhances creative possibilities for users. Moreover, Full HD video capability broadens functionality for multimedia capture.

Limitations

Despite its strengths, the PEN E-P3's 12.3MP sensor resolution is modest compared to newer models, potentially limiting cropping ability and large print quality. The camera lacks a built-in viewfinder, requiring users to rely on the LCD screen, which may be challenging in bright conditions. Its contrast-detection autofocus may perform slower than phase-detection systems in certain situations, especially with moving subjects. Battery life is relatively moderate, necessitating additional power sources for extended shooting sessions. Limited in-body stabilization requires reliance on lens-based solutions. Lastly, the camera’s video features, while robust for the time, do not offer modern codecs or frame rate options available in contemporary models.

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