Olympus Evolt E-620 DSLR Camera Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

This image displays the front view of the Olympus Evolt E-620 DSLR camera. The camera body is black with a textured grip on the right side. The prominent 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Digital lens is centrally mounted. The Olympus logo is visible on the pentaprism housing, and 'E-620' and 'IS IMAGE STABILIZATION' are printed on the right side of the camera body.

The Olympus Evolt E-620 is a 12.3-megapixel Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) camera designed for versatile photography. It features a compact and lightweight body, in-body image stabilization, and a 2.7-inch swivel LCD for flexible shooting angles. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your camera.

2. Setup

2.1 Unpacking

Ensure all items are present in the box:

• E-620 Camera Body
• 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Lens
• USB Cable
• Video Cable
• Li-Ion Battery Pack (BLS-1)
• Li-Ion Battery Charger (BCS-1)
• Shoulder Strap
• OLYMPUS Master 2 Software CD-ROM
• Manuals and Registration card

2.2 Battery Installation and Charging

1. Insert the BLS-1 Lithium-Ion Battery Pack into the battery compartment located at the bottom of the camera. Ensure it clicks into place.
2. To charge the battery, connect the BLS-1 battery to the BCS-1 Li-Ion Battery Charger and plug the charger into a power outlet. The charging indicator will show the charging status.

2.3 Memory Card Installation

The E-620 supports Compact Flash (Type I and II) and xD Picture Cards.

1. Open the memory card slot cover.
2. Insert the Compact Flash card into its designated slot with the correct orientation.
3. Insert the xD Picture Card into its designated slot (note: the panorama function requires an xD card).
4. Close the memory card slot cover securely.

2.4 Lens Attachment

1. Remove the body cap from the camera and the rear lens cap from the 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Lens.
2. Align the mounting marks on the lens with the corresponding mark on the camera body.
3. Rotate the lens clockwise until it locks into place.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Power On/Off and Basic Shooting

To power on the camera, slide the power switch. Select your desired shooting mode using the mode dial. The camera offers automatic modes for ease of use and full manual controls for advanced users.

3.2 Art Filters

The E-620 includes built-in Art Filters to apply creative effects directly to your images. These filters are activated via the mode dial and their effects are viewable on the Live View LCD.

• Pop Art: Enhances colors for a more saturated and vivid appearance.
• Soft Focus: Creates a gentle, ethereal atmosphere without obscuring details.
• Pale & Light Color: Renders the foreground with soft, pastel colors.
• Light Tone: Softens shade and highlight areas for an elegant look.
• Grainy Film: Produces a monochrome image with a high-contrast, grainy texture.
• Pin Hole: Reduces peripheral brightness, drawing focus to the center of the image.

3.3 Multiple Exposure Function

This function allows you to combine two separate images into one. You can capture two shots sequentially or combine two previously taken images. This feature is accessed through the camera's menu.

3.4 In-Body Image Stabilization (IS)

The E-620 features in-body image stabilization to reduce blur caused by camera shake, compatible with any attached lens. Three IS modes are available:

• IS-1: General shooting, compensates for both horizontal and vertical movement.
• IS-2: Ideal for horizontal panning, stabilizing vertical movement while allowing horizontal motion blur.
• IS-3: Ideal for vertical panning, stabilizing horizontal movement while allowing vertical motion blur.

3.5 Swivel Live View LCD

The 2.7-inch HyperCrystal III LCD can be rotated 270 degrees, allowing for composition from various angles. In Live View mode, you can preview the effects of settings like white balance and exposure in real-time.

3.6 Autofocus Systems

The camera offers two autofocus options:

• Fast Imager Autofocus in Live View: Provides quick and easy focusing directly on the LCD.
• Phase Detection AF: Utilizes a 7-point twin cross AF system for fast and accurate focusing, especially useful with the optical viewfinder and for moving subjects.

3.7 Multi-Aspect Shooting

Select from various aspect ratios to frame your images:

• 4:3: Standard aspect ratio.
• 16:9: Widescreen format.
• 3:2: Common print format.
• 6:6: Square format.

The selected aspect ratio can be previewed on the LCD before shooting.

3.8 Face Detection

The camera can detect and track up to eight faces within the image area, automatically focusing and optimizing exposure for portraits.

3.9 Shadow Adjustment Technology

This feature adjusts for extreme light variations, preserving detail in both shadow and highlight areas of a scene. Gradation can be previewed on the Live View LCD.

3.10 Perfect Shot Preview

Allows users to preview various thumbnail effects of white balance and exposure compensation adjustments on the LCD before taking the photograph.

3.11 Wireless Flash Capability

The E-620 is compatible with Olympus FL-36R and FL-50R wireless electronic flashes. It can control up to three wireless flash groups independently for advanced lighting setups.

4. Maintenance

4.1 Dust Reduction System

The camera features an automatic Dust Reduction System with a Supersonic Wave Filter. This technology vibrates to remove dust and particles from the image sensor each time the camera is turned on, helping to ensure spot-free images.

4.2 General Cleaning

• Camera Body: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the camera body. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth can be used, followed by a dry cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Lens: Use a lens brush or blower to remove dust. For smudges, use a specialized lens cleaning solution and a microfiber lens cloth. Do not touch the lens surface with your fingers.
• LCD Screen: Gently wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid pressing too hard.

5. Troubleshooting

5.1 Dark Images or Incorrect Exposure

• Check ISO Settings: If images appear consistently dark, verify the ISO setting. While the camera may default to automatic ISO, ensure it is set appropriately for the lighting conditions. Adjust manually if necessary.
• Exposure Compensation: Use exposure compensation to brighten or darken images.
• Shooting Mode: Ensure you are in a suitable shooting mode. For challenging lighting, consider using Program (P), Aperture Priority (A), Shutter Priority (S), or Manual (M) modes.

5.2 Settings Not Retained

Some settings may reset upon powering off or changing modes. Consult the detailed camera manual (included) for information on custom settings and user profiles that can save preferred configurations.

5.3 Autofocus Issues in Low Light

In very low light conditions, the autofocus system may struggle to lock focus. Consider the following:

• Manual Focus: Switch to manual focus for precise control.
• Built-in Flash: The built-in flash can assist with autofocus in dark environments.
• AF Assist Lamp: Ensure the AF assist lamp (if available and enabled) is functioning.

5.4 Short Battery Life

Using features like Live View, Art Filters, and frequent image review can consume battery power more rapidly. It is recommended to carry a spare BLS-1 battery, especially during extended shooting sessions.

5.5 Viewfinder Appears Small

The E-620 features a compact design, which may result in a smaller optical viewfinder compared to some other DSLR models. This is a design characteristic and not a malfunction.

5.6 Memory Card Compatibility

While the camera supports both Compact Flash and xD Picture Cards, note that the panorama function specifically requires an xD card. For faster write times, especially with continuous shooting, consider using high-quality Compact Flash cards.

5.7 General Learning Curve

As with any advanced camera, mastering the Olympus E-620 requires practice and familiarity with its features. Refer to the comprehensive manual for detailed explanations of all functions and settings.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

7.1 Warranty Information

This product typically includes a 90-day parts and labor warranty. Please refer to the included registration card and warranty documentation for specific terms and conditions.

7.2 Manuals and Software

A comprehensive user manual and registration card are included with your camera. The OLYMPUS Master 2 Software CD-ROM provides tools for image management and editing.

7.3 Optional Accessories

Enhance your camera's capabilities with optional accessories:

• HLD-5 Power Battery Holder: Extends battery life and improves vertical shooting ergonomics.
• PT-E06 Underwater Housing: Allows for underwater photography up to 130 feet.

7.4 Customer Support

For further assistance, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the contact information provided in your product documentation or visit the official Olympus support website.