The Olympus PEN-F is a mirrorless camera that was released in 2016. It is a stylish camera with a retro design that has gained a lot of attention from photography enthusiasts. The camera comes with a 20MP sensor and many of the same features found in the enthusiast OM-D E-M5 II.
The original Olympus PEN-F was first introduced in 1963 and quickly gained a following thanks to its beautiful and simple design, as well as its small size. The new PEN-F is a nod to the original, with its retro design and sleek appearance. The camera is highly capable, offering good image quality and decent video quality. It also has many features that allow for customization of both the controls and the appearance of the images it produces.
Design and Handling
The Olympus PEN-F is a mirrorless camera with a stylish retro design that is sure to turn heads. It is a solid and well-built camera that feels great in the hand. The camera’s design is not just limited to its appearance, but also to its build quality and ergonomics.
Build Quality
The Olympus PEN-F is made from metal and has a solid feel to it. The camera’s body is well-built and can withstand some wear and tear. It is a durable camera that can be taken on the go without any worries.
Ergonomics
The Olympus PEN-F is designed to be comfortable to hold and easy to use. The camera’s grip is well-designed and fits comfortably in the hand. The camera’s buttons and dials are well-placed and easy to access. The camera’s menu system is also user-friendly and easy to navigate.
The Olympus PEN-F also has a tilting touchscreen that makes it easy to take photos from different angles. The touchscreen is responsive and easy to use. The camera also has a viewfinder that provides a clear and crisp view of the scene.
Overall, the Olympus PEN-F is a stylish and well-designed camera that is easy to use and comfortable to hold. Its build quality and ergonomics make it a great choice for photographers who want a camera that is both stylish and functional.
Features and Performance
The Olympus PEN-F is a mirrorless camera that boasts a range of features and impressive performance. In this section, we will discuss the camera’s sensor and processor, autofocus and shutter speed, and image quality.
Sensor and Processor
The PEN-F features a 20-megapixel Live MOS Four Thirds format sensor and a TruePic VII processor. This combination enables the camera to produce high-quality images with excellent detail and color accuracy. The sensor and processor also work together to deliver fast performance and reduce noise in low light conditions.
Autofocus and Shutter Speed
The PEN-F has a highly customizable autofocus system that allows users to choose from 81 autofocus points. Additionally, the camera features a high-speed AF system that can capture images at up to 9.6 frames per second. The camera also has a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000 second, which enables users to capture fast-moving subjects with ease.
Image Quality
The PEN-F produces high-quality images with excellent detail and color accuracy. The camera’s 5-axis image stabilization system helps to reduce camera shake and produce sharp images, even in low light conditions. The camera also features a range of creative filters and color controls that allow users to customize their images to their liking.
Video and Connectivity
The Olympus PEN-F offers decent video capabilities, but it’s not the camera’s strongest suit. It can shoot 1080p Full HD video at up to 60 frames per second, but it lacks 4K video recording capability. Additionally, the camera doesn’t have a microphone input, which limits its audio recording capabilities.
Video Quality
The video quality is generally good, with sharp details and accurate colors. However, the camera’s autofocus system can struggle to keep up with fast-moving subjects, resulting in some noticeable focus hunting. The lack of 4K video recording capability may also be a dealbreaker for some users who require higher resolution video for their work.
Connectivity Options
The Olympus PEN-F offers a range of connectivity options, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. These features allow users to easily transfer photos and videos to their smartphones or tablets for sharing on social media or editing on-the-go. The camera also supports remote shooting and live view control via the Olympus Image Share app, which is available for both iOS and Android devices.
However, it’s worth noting that the camera’s Wi-Fi connectivity can be somewhat finicky, and users may experience dropped connections or slow transfer speeds. Additionally, the camera lacks NFC connectivity, which would have made it easier to pair with compatible devices.
Battery Life and Storage
Battery Life
The Olympus PEN-F comes with a rechargeable Li-ion battery that provides a decent battery life of approximately 330 shots per charge. However, the battery life may vary depending on the usage of the camera, such as the number of photos taken, video recording, and other features used. Therefore, it is recommended to carry a spare battery or a power bank, especially if you plan to use the camera for extended periods of time.
Storage Options
The Olympus PEN-F does not come with built-in storage, but it supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. The camera has a single memory card slot, and it is compatible with UHS-I cards for faster data transfer speeds. The camera can also use Eye-Fi and Toshiba FlashAir cards for wireless transfer of images and videos to compatible devices.
The amount of storage required depends on the resolution and quality of the images and videos captured. The Olympus PEN-F has a 20.3-megapixel sensor that can capture high-resolution images and Full HD videos. Therefore, it is recommended to use memory cards with larger storage capacities, such as 64GB or 128GB, especially if you plan to shoot in RAW format or record longer videos.
Price and Availability
The Olympus PEN-F began shipping in March of 2016 at a body-only price of $1199.99. It is available in black or two-tone silver and black. The FL-LM3 flash unit is included with the camera.
Price
The Olympus PEN-F is priced at $1199.99 for the body-only configuration. This price is on the higher end for mirrorless cameras, but it is reflective of the camera’s advanced features and high-quality build. The price may vary depending on the retailer and any current promotions or discounts.
Availability
The Olympus PEN-F is widely available at camera retailers and online stores. It is a popular choice for photographers who want a high-end mirrorless camera with a retro design. Availability may vary depending on the region and retailer, but it is generally in stock and ready for purchase.
For those looking to purchase the Olympus PEN-F, it is recommended to check with local camera stores or reputable online retailers. Some retailers may offer bundle deals that include lenses or other accessories, which can be a great value for the price.
Overall, the Olympus PEN-F is a premium mirrorless camera that is priced accordingly. It is well worth the investment for photographers who value high-quality images and a stylish, retro design.