
OM SYSTEM Olympus pen,pen
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 |
Quick view
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) |
Images
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.
FAQ
What type of sensor does the Olympus PEN E-PL3 use?
The Olympus PEN E-PL3 features a 12.3-megapixel Live MOS Micro Four Thirds sensor.
Does the E-PL3 have image stabilization?
Yes, it includes a 3-axis sensor-shift image stabilization system.
Can the E-PL3 record video?
Yes, it records Full HD 1080p video.
Does the camera have a built-in electronic viewfinder?
No, the E-PL3 does not have a built-in EVF and relies on its rear LCD screen for composing shots.
Is the Olympus PEN E-PL3 still supported with firmware updates?
No, the model has been discontinued and no longer receives firmware updates.
What lens mount system does the E-PL3 use?
It uses the Micro Four Thirds lens mount, compatible with a wide range of lenses.
What are the storage options for this camera?
The camera supports SD and SDHC memory cards for image and video storage.
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