OM SYSTEM Olympus pen,pen image

OM SYSTEM Olympus pen,pen

Quick information
Brand OM SYSTEM 2011
Model E-PL3 BODY SLV
Released Year 2011
Type Point & Shoot Digital Cameras
Series E-PL3
Compatible Mountings Micro Four Thirds
Autofocus Yes
Photo Sensor Resolution 12.3 MP
Video Resolution 1080p
File Format JPEG
Status Discontinued
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Overview

The OM SYSTEM Olympus PEN E-PL3 is a mirrorless Micro Four Thirds camera released in 2011, offering a blend of compact size and advanced imaging features. It features a 12.3-megapixel Live MOS sensor paired with the TruePic VI image processor for improved noise reduction and high ISO performance.

The camera supports HD video recording at 1080p, coupled with 3-axis image stabilization to reduce blur from hand shakiness during both stills and video capture. It includes a 3-inch tilting LCD touchscreen with improved brightness and response for easier composition and menu navigation.

Autofocus capabilities are enhanced with proximity detection, delivering quicker and more accurate focusing speeds. The E-PL3 comes with built-in flash and supports hot shoe-mounted external flashes, increasing lighting versatility.

Connectivity options such as HDMI output allow for easy image and video viewing on larger screens, and SD/SDHC cards provide flexible storage solutions. The compact magnesium alloy and polycarbonate body ensures lightweight portability without compromising durability.

It offers manual exposure controls, customizable buttons, and multiple shooting modes that cater to both beginners and advanced photographers. The inclusion of various lens compatibility within the Micro Four Thirds system expands creative possibilities through interchangeable lenses.

This model balances user-friendly design with professional-grade image quality, making it suitable for enthusiasts seeking a portable yet capable camera system.

Specifications

Camera type Mirrorless, Micro Four Thirds
Sensor 12.3 MP Live MOS sensor
Image Processor TruePic VI
Image Stabilization 3-axis sensor-shift
ISO Range 100-12800
Autofocus Yes
Shutter Speed Range 1/4000 to 60 seconds
Viewfinder Electronic
LCD Screen 3-inch tilting touchscreen LCD, 614k dots
Video Recording 1080p Full HD at 30fps
Lens Mount Micro Four Thirds
Flash Built-in pop-up flash and hot shoe for external flash
Storage Media SD / SDHC memory cards
Connectivity HDMI output, USB 2.0
Battery LI-50B Lithium-ion rechargeable battery
Dimensions 116 x 68 x 39 mm
Weight Approx. 335 grams (body only)
Body Material Magnesium alloy and polycarbonate
Release Date 2011
Built-In Media Camera Body Only
Are Batteries Included No
Remote Included No
Item Height 6.4 centimeters
Manufacturer Olympus
Exposure Control Automatic
White Balance Settings Auto
Self Timer 10 Seconds
Screen Size 3 Inches
Display Type LCD
Display Resolution Maximum 12.3 MP
Has Color Screen Yes
Flash Memory Type SD
Write Speed 4.1 fps
Flash Memory Speed Class 10
Flash Memory Bus Interface Type [SD Bus]
Flash Memory Supported Size Maximum 512 GB
Compatible Mountings Micro Four Thirds
Sensor Type CMOS
Image stabilization Digital
Expanded ISO Minimum 100
Photo Sensor Resolution 12.3 MP
Photo Sensor Size Micro Four Thirds
Maximum Shutter Speed 1/4000 Seconds
Minimum Shutter Speed 60-1/4000秒
Form Factor Compact
Item Weight 265 Grams
Video Resolution 1080p
Flash Modes Automatic
Camera Flash no flash
Skill Level Amateur
Compatible Devices [Micro Four Thirds]
Continuous Shooting 4.1
Aperture modes F2.8-F5.6
Flash Sync Speed 1/250
Video Capture Format MP4
Expanded ISO Maximum 25600
Delay between shots 0.24 seconds
Battery Type Lithium Ion
Frame Rate 29.97 FPS
Mount Type Bayonet
Waterproof Rating なし
Crop Factor 2
Number of Batteries 1 Lithium Ion batteries required.
Has Image Stabilization Yes
Aspect Ratio 4:3
File Format JPEG
Effective Still Resolution 12.3 MP
JPEG Quality Level Fine
Bit Depth 8 Bit
Total Still Resolution 12.3 MP
Maximum Focal Length 42 Millimeters
Lens Type Wide Angle Zoom
Zoom Optical Zoom
Camera Lens RM series lens
Minimum Focal Length 14 Millimeters
Real Angle Of View 62.2 Degrees
Connectivity Technology USB
Wireless Technology Yes
Total Video Out Ports 1
Shooting Modes Automatic, Custom, Easy, Landscape, Macro, Manual, Movie, Portrait, Shutter Priority
Digital-Still Yes
Movie Mode Yes
Image Capture Type Stills & Video
Auto Focus Technology Contrast Detection
Focus Features Contrast Detection Autofocus
Focus Type Auto Focus
Focus Mode Automatic AF (AF-A)

Key Advantages

The Olympus PEN E-PL3 excels with its 3-axis image stabilization system, significantly reducing motion blur in images and video. Its 12.3MP sensor combined with TruePic VI processor delivers sharp, low-noise images even in low-light environments.

The tilting 3-inch touchscreen LCD enhances usability for composing shots from challenging angles and provides intuitive menu control. Fast autofocus with proximity detection ensures quick and precise focusing performance.

Compact and lightweight design makes it highly portable without sacrificing build quality. The Micro Four Thirds lens mount opens access to a diverse selection of high-quality interchangeable lenses.

Full 1080p video recording capability adds versatility for multimedia content creators. The camera supports external flash units through a hot shoe, giving users stronger lighting options when needed.

Manual controls and multiple shooting modes accommodate photographers at all skill levels, from novice to advanced. The combination of attractive design and robust feature set positions it well for both casual and serious use.

Energy-efficient operation allows longer shooting sessions on a single battery charge, increasing reliability during outings.

Limitations

The Olympus PEN E-PL3’s 12.3MP resolution is modest compared to newer models, limiting large-format printing or extensive cropping flexibility. Video recording lacks advanced features like continuous autofocus during shooting.

The camera does not include a built-in electronic viewfinder, requiring reliance on the rear LCD in bright sunlight, which can be less effective in harsh outdoor conditions. Autofocus performance, while improved, can struggle in extremely low light or with fast-moving subjects.

Lack of built-in Wi-Fi connectivity limits easy sharing or remote control compared to modern mirrorless cameras. Battery life is average, requiring spares for extended usage.

The touchscreen, while useful, is relatively basic and less responsive than newer capacitive screens. Limited native ISO range compared to current cameras slightly constrains performance in very dark or bright situations.

No weather sealing compromises durability under harsh environmental conditions. Storage is limited to SD/SDHC cards without support for faster UHS-II speeds.

Firmware updates ceased after a few years, so newer features and bug fixes are unavailable, reflecting its discontinued status.

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