The new PEN 3 series of Mirror-less Cameras
I decided to create a separate page for the exciting new camera series Olympus launched this week. I am positive that Olympus owners who has followed development of new products on the camera scene are all excited with this new range from Olympus. We have seen great developments over recent years and I think the PEN 3 range are going to be exceedingly exciting.
On this page I will list links to interesting reviews, videos and articles on the new PEN 3 range. If you find something you think will be a great addition to this page please drop me a mail with the info.
Olympus talks about the "PEN Concept" when referring to the exciting new PEN 3 range. Consisting of 5 main categories, the PEN concept basically explains this unique continuation of the already great PEN camera. I added a brief description of each concept for your information.
SLR Quality
I read the new 12MP PEN 3 range uses an all new sensor with several improvements like image noise, dynamic range, image color, image detail and more. Interesting I thought was the fact that Olympus decided to stay at 12MP and to rather improve image quality and not increase pixels. Similar to the E5 the new PEN series will set new standards seems to me.
The new PEN cameras also use a new Version 6 image processor. In one article I read it could even be a dual core processor that is used in the PEN new cameras. What are the main advantage of this? Its mainly processing speed, one of the negatives on the E-PL2 is processing speed, especially when using the ART filters. The one most significant improvement is the new FAST AF functionality of the new PEN series. Just think what this will do for a range like the PEN camera. In my mind we now will see the future mirror-less "SLR" type body being launched soon.
Expandability
We have already been introduced to the expandability of the PEN cameras. It started with the E-P1 and it just kept on growing to where we are today. At one stage I was nearly moved to study the Panasonic lens offer again. Lucky this weakness only stayed a few moments. The deciding factor was the glass used in the Olympus lenses plus the excellent image quality as a result. Take the 14 - 150mm and have a good look at what has been build into it and you will better appreciate just why its image quality is so solid. I cannot wait to see what these new lenses will be like, I only hope Olympus stay within reason with the prices.
Ease of Use
Olympus seems to have done a lot to make it simple to work with the new PEN series. That includes all three new models, from the basic E-PM1 right up to the new E-P3.
The one physical part of the PEN which will translate this ease of use most is the new OLFD AF(Anti Fingerprint) Touch Panel. With the new touch control panel one will be able to select the focus point, do several adjustments on the fly and have the ability to evaluate images in incredible detail on the camera.
Creativity
The new more powerful creativity started with the E-PL2. I think very few reviewers noticed this because it was only visible when really testing and using the camera. Exactly what has been added to that of the E-P3 is not clear at this stage for me.
I read that the E-P3 now has 10 ART Filters and all have the ability to be adjusted. Add to that the more traditional scene modes that also evolved and the new PEN camera is really a more creative tool. I was playing with the multi exposure function in edit mode on the E-PL2 and was surprised at the additional adjustments one can make to more accurately tune the final image.
Flexibility
I saw these examples of the different grips one will see for the PEN in the future. I also saw a set of less radical looking grips, but with various different shapes. This will help a lot to adapt the camera for individual style and use.
One thing I noticed is that the E-PL3 and the E-PM1 has no grip. That is sad because one of the best things about the E-PL2 is its fantastic grip.