Introduction
The Olympus PEN E-P1 marks a new era in digital imaging, offering a compact and stylish design with the advanced capabilities of a Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) camera. This 12.3-megapixel Micro Four Thirds interchangeable lens system camera is designed for both high-quality still photography and High Definition (HD) video recording with stereo Linear PCM audio. Its ultra-portable body and diverse multimedia features make it suitable for a wide range of users, from enthusiasts to professionals seeking a compact solution.
The E-P1 integrates advanced imaging technologies, including in-body image stabilization, a 3-inch HyperCrystal LCD, and a robust dust reduction system, ensuring exceptional image quality and user experience. This manual provides comprehensive instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Olympus PEN E-P1 camera.
What's in the Box
Upon unboxing your Olympus PEN E-P1, please verify that all the following items are included:
- PEN digital camera body
- M.ZUIKO 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Digital Zoom Lens
- Li-ion battery BLS-1
- Li-ion battery charger BCS-1
- USB/Video Multi cable
- Shoulder strap
- OLYMPUS Master CD-ROM
- Instruction manual
- Warranty card
Setup Guide
1. Charging the Battery
Before initial use, fully charge the supplied Li-ion battery BLS-1 using the Li-ion battery charger BCS-1. Insert the battery into the charger and plug the charger into a power outlet. The charging indicator light will show the charging status and turn off when charging is complete.
2. Inserting the Battery and Memory Card
Open the battery/card compartment cover on the bottom of the camera. Insert the charged battery with the correct orientation until it clicks into place. Insert an SD/SDHC memory card (not included) into the card slot with the label facing the correct direction until it locks. Close the compartment cover securely.
Figure 1: Rear view of the Olympus PEN E-P1, highlighting the 3-inch HyperCrystal LCD and control layout.
3. Attaching the Lens
Align the white dot on the 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens with the white dot on the camera's lens mount. Gently insert the lens into the mount and rotate it clockwise until it clicks into place. To remove the lens, press the lens release button on the camera body and rotate the lens counter-clockwise.
Figure 2: Front view of the Olympus PEN E-P1 camera body, illustrating the Micro Four Thirds lens mount.
Figure 3: The Olympus PEN E-P1 with the 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens attached.
Operating the Camera
Powering On/Off
Press the power button located on the top of the camera to turn it on or off. The LCD screen will illuminate upon power-on.
Basic Photography
- Select a Shooting Mode: Use the mode dial to select your desired shooting mode (e.g., i-Auto, Program Auto, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, Manual, Scene Modes).
- Compose Your Shot: Use the 3-inch HyperCrystal LCD to frame your subject.
- Focus: Half-press the shutter button to activate autofocus. The camera will confirm focus with a beep and/or an indicator on the screen.
- Capture: Fully press the shutter button to take the picture.
Video Recording
The E-P1 supports HD video recording with high-quality audio. To start recording, press the dedicated movie record button. Press it again to stop recording. Videos are saved in AVI format with MJPEG compression.
Using the Super Control Panel and Live Control
The Super Control Panel provides quick access to various settings directly on the LCD. When Live Control is active, icons appear on the LCD, allowing for easy composition, editing, and shooting without navigating through extensive menus. This feature enhances the user experience by providing real-time feedback on settings adjustments.
Scene Modes and Intelligent Auto
The camera features 19 automatic scene modes for various shooting situations, such as Night-Scene, Portrait, and Landscape. The Intelligent Auto Mode automatically identifies the scene (e.g., Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Sports) and adjusts settings for optimal results, making it ideal for beginners or quick snapshots.
- ePortrait Mode: Smooths your subject's face in-camera before capture. An ePortrait Fix mode is also available for post-capture edits.
- Shadow Adjustment Technology: Adjusts for extreme light variations to maintain visible detail in both shadow and highlight areas.
- Face Detection: Recognizes up to eight faces, tracks them, and optimizes focus and exposure for sharp portraits.
Advanced Features
In-body Image Stabilization
The E-P1 features a built-in sensor-shift image stabilization system that compensates for camera shake, providing blur-free images even in low light or when using telephoto lenses. This system works with any attached lens and offers up to four steps EV (exposure value) compensation.
In-Camera Creative Features (Art Filters)
Unleash your creativity with six unique Art Filters that can be applied to both still images and HD videos directly in the camera:
- Pop Art
- Soft Focus
- Pale & Light Color
- Light Tone
- Grainy Film
- Pin Hole
These filters allow for dramatic artistic effects without the need for post-processing software. The effects are viewable in real-time on the LCD.
Multiple Exposures
Combine two separate images into a single frame. You can shoot two shots and combine them in real-time, or capture them separately and combine them later in the camera. This feature allows for unique artistic expressions.
Multi-Aspect Shooting
Frame your images with different aspect ratios to achieve various photographic expressions. Available aspect ratios include:
- 4:3 (Standard)
- 16:9 (Widescreen)
- 3:2
- 6:6 (Square)
High-Quality Audio Recording
The E-P1 features uncompressed 24 bit/96kHz Linear PCM recording capability with its built-in stereo microphones. This ensures rich and detailed sound quality for your videos or audio narrations for still images.
Multimedia Slideshows
Create dynamic slideshows directly in the camera by seamlessly mixing still images and videos. You can also add one of five built-in background music options. Connect the camera to an HD television via HDMI to view your creations.
Digital Leveler
An internal Digital Level Sensor that detects the camera's pitch and roll, displaying it on the control panel. This helps ensure perfectly level horizons in your landscape and architectural shots.
Magnified Focus Assist
For precise manual focusing, the MF Assist Function allows you to zoom up the central part of the image by up to 5 times by turning the focus ring. The Magnification Display lets you magnify the image on the LCD by up to 7x at the touch of a button, and up to 10x using the dial.
Metering Modes
The E-P1 offers versatile metering options, including:
- 324-division ESP metering (18x18 grid): Divides the image area into 324 cells for optimum exposure.
- Center-weighted metering
- Spot metering
Maintenance and Care
Dust Reduction System
The Olympus E-P1 features a proven Dust Reduction System with the exclusive Supersonic Wave Filter. This patented ultrasonic technology vibrates to remove dust and other particles from the front of the image sensor, capturing them on a special adhesive membrane every time the camera is turned on. This significantly reduces the risk of dust spots on your images.
General Cleaning
- Camera Body: Wipe the camera body with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, use a cloth lightly dampened with water and then wipe dry. Avoid using organic solvents.
- Lens: Use a lens brush or blower to remove dust. For smudges, use a lens cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth specifically designed for optical surfaces.
- LCD Screen: Gently wipe the LCD screen with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid pressing hard on the screen.
Always ensure the camera is turned off and the battery is removed before cleaning.
Storage
When not in use for extended periods, store the camera in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Remove the battery before storage.
Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Olympus PEN E-P1. For more detailed troubleshooting, refer to the full instruction manual provided on the OLYMPUS Master CD-ROM.
| Problem | Possible Cause / Solution |
|---|---|
| Camera does not power on. | Battery may be depleted. Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly inserted. |
| Images are blurry. |
|
| Dust spots appear on images. | The Dust Reduction System activates automatically. If spots persist, gently clean the lens. Avoid changing lenses in dusty environments. |
| Images are too dark or too bright. |
|
| Cannot record video. | Ensure sufficient space on the memory card. Check if the camera is in a mode that allows video recording. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Olympus PEN E-P1 |
| Sensor Type | CMOS |
| Photo Sensor Resolution | 12.3 MP Effective, 12 MP Total |
| Photo Sensor Size | Micro Four Thirds |
| Compatible Mountings | Micro Four Thirds |
| Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift (In-body) |
| Lens Included | 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens |
| Optical Zoom | 3x |
| Maximum Aperture | f/3.5 |
| Minimum Focal Length | 14 Millimeters |
| Maximum Focal Length | 42 Millimeters |
| ISO Range | Expanded ISO Minimum 100, Expanded ISO Maximum 6400 |
| Shutter Speed | Minimum 60 seconds, Maximum 1/4000 seconds |
| Video Resolution | HD 720p |
| Video Capture Format | MJPEG |
| Audio Input | Built-in Stereo Microphones |
| Screen Size | 3 Inches |
| Display Type | HyperCrystal LCD |
| Supported File Formats | AVI, RAW, JPEG |
| Flash Memory Type | SD/SDHC card |
| Connectivity | USB, HDMI |
| Weight | 0.78 Pounds (body only) |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 4.75 x 2.75 x 1.43 inches (approximate) |
Warranty and Support
Warranty Information
Your Olympus PEN E-P1 comes with a warranty. Please refer to the included Warranty Card for specific terms, conditions, and duration of the warranty coverage. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Software Support
The camera includes the OLYMPUS Master CD-ROM, which contains the Olympus Master 2 software. This software allows you to:
- Download and organize images and videos.
- Develop RAW images and apply Art Filter effects.
- Edit and print images.
- Update camera and lens firmware.
- Upload images and videos to online platforms like YouTube.
A trial edition of Olympus Studio 2 is also included, offering enhanced RAW processing and image management features. For further assistance, consult the software's help documentation or visit the official Olympus support website.
