Olympus E-PL5 Mirrorless Digital Camera Instruction Manual

Introduction

This manual provides essential instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Olympus E-PL5 Mirrorless Digital Camera with the 14-42mm lens. Please read this manual thoroughly to ensure proper use and to maximize the performance of your camera.

The Olympus E-PL5 Mirrorless Digital Camera with its included 14-42mm lens.

Setup

1. Unboxing and Package Contents

Before starting, ensure all components are present in the package:

• Olympus E-PL5 Camera Body
• M.Zuiko Digital 14-42mm Lens
• Lithium-Ion BLS-5 Rechargeable Battery
• Battery Charger
• USB Cable
• Shoulder Strap
• Instruction Manual (this document)

2. Battery Installation and Charging

1. Open the battery compartment cover located at the bottom of the camera.
2. Insert the BLS-5 battery with the contacts facing inward, ensuring it clicks into place. Close the cover.
3. Connect the battery charger to a power outlet and insert the battery. The charging indicator will illuminate.
4. Charging is complete when the indicator light turns off. A full charge typically takes approximately 3 hours.

3. Attaching the Lens

1. Remove the body cap from the camera and the rear lens cap from the lens.
2. Align the white index mark on the lens with the white index mark on the camera body.
3. Mount the lens by turning it clockwise until it clicks into place.
4. Remove the front lens cap.

4. Inserting a Memory Card

The Olympus E-PL5 supports SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards. Ensure the card is inserted correctly to avoid damage.

1. Open the memory card slot cover, usually located on the side or bottom of the camera.
2. Insert the memory card with the label facing the front of the camera until it clicks.
3. Close the memory card slot cover.

5. Initial Settings

Upon first power-on, the camera will prompt you to set the date, time, and language. Follow the on-screen instructions using the control dial and buttons.

Operating the Camera

1. Power On/Off

Press the POWER button to turn the camera on or off. The lens will extend when powered on if it's a collapsible zoom lens.

2. Shooting Modes

The E-PL5 offers various shooting modes accessible via the mode dial or on-screen menu:

• i-Auto: Intelligent Auto mode for automatic scene detection and optimal settings.
• Program AE (P): Camera sets aperture and shutter speed, but allows user adjustments.
• Aperture Priority (A): User sets aperture, camera sets shutter speed. Ideal for controlling depth of field.
• Shutter Priority (S): User sets shutter speed, camera sets aperture. Ideal for controlling motion blur.
• Manual (M): User sets both aperture and shutter speed for full creative control.
• Scene Modes (SCN): Pre-set modes for specific situations (e.g., Portrait, Landscape, Night Scene).
• Art Filters: Apply creative effects to your photos and videos. The E-PL5 includes 12 Creative Art Filters and 7 Art Filter Effects.

3. Focusing and Shutter Release

The camera features a 3.0" Flip Self Portrait Touch LCD Screen, allowing for touch-based focusing and shooting.

1. Autofocus: The E-PL5 uses Contrast Detection AF with 35 autofocus points. You can select focus areas using the touchscreen or directional buttons. Auto Focus Technology includes Continuous, Face Detection, Live View, Multi-area, Selective single-point, Single, Touch, and Tracking.
2. Manual Focus: Switch the lens or camera to MF mode and rotate the focus ring on the lens.
3. Shutter Release: Press the shutter button halfway to focus, then press fully to capture the image. In Touch Shutter mode, simply tap the screen to focus and shoot.

4. Video Recording

The Olympus E-PL5 supports Full 1080i HD Video with Art Filter Movie and Effects. The maximum recording capacity is 29 minutes per clip.

1. Set the mode dial to the movie icon or select movie mode from the menu.
2. Press the dedicated movie record button to start and stop recording.

5. Image Playback

Press the PLAY button to review your photos and videos. Use the directional buttons or touchscreen to navigate through images.

6. Connectivity

The camera supports HDMI and USB connectivity. It also features EyeFi wireless technology for easy image transfer.

Maintenance

1. Cleaning the Camera and Lens

• 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 harsh chemicals.
• Use a blower brush to remove dust from the lens and sensor (if accessible).

2. Battery Care

• Store batteries in a cool, dry place when not in use.
• Avoid fully discharging the battery frequently to prolong its lifespan.
• Do not expose batteries to extreme temperatures.

3. Storage

When storing the camera for extended periods, remove the battery and memory card. Store the camera in a dry, dust-free environment, preferably with a desiccant to prevent mold and mildew.

Troubleshooting

Common Issues and Solutions

• Camera does not power on: Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly inserted.
• Images are blurry: Check focus settings (autofocus or manual focus). Ensure sufficient lighting and appropriate shutter speed to prevent camera shake. Verify lens is clean.
• Video recording has unexpected noise: Check for external noise sources. Ensure the microphone is not obstructed. If using an external microphone, verify its connection and settings.
• LCD screen display issues: If the screen orientation is incorrect or unresponsive, try restarting the camera. Ensure the screen is clean and free from physical damage.
• Memory card error: Reinsert the memory card. Try a different, compatible memory card. Ensure the card is not locked (write-protected).

For more complex issues, refer to the full Olympus E-PL5 user manual or contact Olympus customer support.

Specifications

Product Video Demonstration

Watch this behind-the-scenes video from the Olympus 72 Hour Filmmaker Showdown, showcasing the camera's capabilities in a dynamic filmmaking environment.

Warranty & Support

For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Olympus support website. Olympus provides customer support for technical assistance, repairs, and service inquiries.

Contact information for support can typically be found on the Olympus website or in the documentation provided with your camera.