Olympus PEN E-P1 Digital Camera Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper use and care of your Olympus PEN E-P1 12.3 MP Micro Four Thirds Digital Camera. The E-P1 combines the image quality of a digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera with a compact, portable design. It features a 12.3-megapixel sensor, High Definition (HD) video recording, and various in-camera creative functions.

Please read this manual thoroughly before using your camera to ensure optimal performance and to familiarize yourself with all its functions.

Figure 1: Olympus PEN E-P1 Digital Camera with attached 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens. The camera body is silver with a black grip, and the lens is also silver and black.

2. Setup

2.1 Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your camera package:

• Olympus PEN E-P1 Digital Camera Body
• Li-ion Battery BLS-1
• Li-ion Battery Charger BCS-1
• USB/Video Multi Cable
• Shoulder Strap
• OLYMPUS Master CD-ROM
• Instruction Manual (this document)
• Warranty Card
• 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens (if purchased as a kit)

2.2 Charging the Battery

1. Insert the BLS-1 Li-ion battery into the BCS-1 charger.
2. Plug the charger into a power outlet. The charging indicator light will illuminate.
3. Charging is complete when the indicator light turns off.

2.3 Inserting the Battery and Memory Card

1. Open the battery/card compartment cover on the bottom of the camera.
2. Insert the charged BLS-1 battery with the correct orientation until it locks into place.
3. Insert an SD/SDHC memory card into the card slot until it clicks. Ensure the card is facing the correct direction.
4. Close the compartment cover securely.

2.4 Attaching the Lens

1. Remove the body cap from the camera and the rear lens cap from the lens.
2. Align the mounting marks on the lens and the camera body.
3. Attach the lens to the camera body and rotate it clockwise until it clicks into place.

3. Operating the Camera

3.1 Powering On/Off

To power on the camera, slide the power switch. To power off, slide the switch again.

3.2 Basic Photography

The E-P1 utilizes a 3-inch HyperCrystal LCD for composing and reviewing images. The Live Control function displays icons on the LCD for easy access to settings.

• Focusing: The camera features fast Imager Autofocus in Live View. For manual focusing, use the MF Assist Function and Magnification Display, which allows zooming up to 10x on the LCD for precise focus.
• Shutter Release: Press the shutter button halfway to focus, then press fully to capture the image.
• Scene Modes: The camera offers 19 automatic scene modes, including Night-Scene, Portrait, and Landscape. Intelligent Auto Mode automatically identifies the scene type and adjusts settings. ePortrait Mode smooths facial features in-camera.
• Exposure: Shadow Adjustment Technology helps maintain detail in both highlight and shadow areas. The camera supports 18x18 ESP metering, center-weighted, and spot metering modes.
• Image Stabilization: The E-P1 features in-body image stabilization, compensating for camera shake across three modes and up to four EV steps.

3.3 Recording Videos

The E-P1 records HD video with high-quality 24-bit/96kHz Linear PCM stereo audio using built-in microphones. Videos can be recorded in MJPEG format at 1280 x 720 (30 fps) or 640 x 480 (30 fps).

3.4 Creative Features

The camera includes several in-camera creative options:

• Art Filters: Apply filters like Pop Art, Soft Focus, Pale & Light Color, Light Tone, Grainy Film, or Pin Hole to both still images and HD videos. Effects are visible on the LCD in real-time.
• Multiple Exposures: Combine two shots into one image. This can be done in real-time or by combining separately captured images later.
• Multi-Aspect Shooting: Choose from various aspect ratios (4:3, 16:9, 3:2, 6:6) to frame your images.

3.5 Reviewing and Sharing

In playback mode, you can create multimedia slideshows by mixing stills and videos, adding one of five built-in background music options. Connect the camera to an HD television via an HDMI cable to view your content.

4. Maintenance

4.1 Dust Reduction System

The E-P1 features an Olympus Dust Reduction System with a Supersonic Wave Filter. This patented ultrasonic technology vibrates to remove dust and particles from the image sensor each time the camera is powered on, helping to ensure spot-free photos.

4.2 General Cleaning

• Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the camera body.
• For the lens and LCD screen, use a specialized lens cleaning cloth and solution.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your camera, consider the following general troubleshooting steps:

• Camera does not power on: Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly inserted.
• Cannot take photos: Check if a memory card is inserted and has sufficient free space. Ensure the lens is properly attached.
• Images are blurry: Verify that the lens is clean. Check focus settings and ensure image stabilization is active if shooting in low light or with a telephoto lens.
• Dust spots on images: The camera's Dust Reduction System activates upon startup. If spots persist, consult a service center.

For more specific issues, refer to the detailed troubleshooting section in the OLYMPUS Master CD-ROM or the Olympus support website.

6. Specifications

7. Software

7.1 Olympus Master 2 Software

The included OLYMPUS Master 2 software (compatible with Mac and PC) allows you to download, organize, edit, and print images. It supports RAW image development, application of Art Filters, and firmware updates. A direct link for uploading images and videos to YouTube is also provided.

7.2 Olympus Studio 2 (Trial Edition)

Olympus Studio 2 extends the capabilities of Olympus Master 2 with features like a lightbox mode, selection marks for image comparison, and enhanced RAW processing controls. A 30-day trial edition is included.

8. Warranty and Support

Your Olympus PEN E-P1 camera comes with a warranty. Please refer to the included Warranty Card for specific terms and conditions. For technical support or service, contact Olympus customer service or visit the official Olympus support website.