Olympus E-PM2 Mirrorless Digital Camera Instruction Manual

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of your Olympus E-PM2 Mirrorless Digital Camera. The E-PM2 is designed to deliver high-quality images with its 16MP Live MOS sensor and TruePic VI Image Processor, offering a compact and versatile photography experience. Please read this manual thoroughly before using your camera.

Front view of the Olympus E-PM2 camera body, showcasing the Micro Four Thirds lens mount, grip, and top controls.

1. Setup

1.1 Battery Installation

1. Open the battery compartment cover located on the bottom of the camera.
2. Insert the Lithium-Ion BLS-5 rechargeable battery with the correct orientation, ensuring it clicks into place.
3. Close the battery compartment cover securely.
4. Charge the battery using the provided charger before first use.

1.2 SD Card Installation

1. Open the SD card slot cover, typically located on the side or bottom of the camera.
2. Insert an SD, SDHC, or SDXC memory card into the slot until it clicks. Ensure the card is facing the correct direction.
3. Close the SD card slot cover securely.

1.3 Attaching a Lens

1. Remove the body cap from the camera and the rear cap from the lens.
2. Align the white index mark on the lens with the white index mark on the camera's lens mount.
3. Rotate the lens clockwise until it clicks into place.

1.4 Initial Power-On

Press the power button to turn on the camera. Follow any on-screen prompts for initial setup, such as setting the date and time.

2. Operating the Camera

2.1 Basic Photography

• Power On/Off: Press the power button located on the top of the camera.
• Shooting Modes: The E-PM2 offers various shooting modes including Aperture Priority, Automatic, Manual, and Shutter Priority. These can be selected via the camera's menu system.
• Focusing: The camera features a FAST (Frequency Acceleration Sensor Technology) AF System with 35 focus points. Touch the 3-inch LCD screen to select an AF point and focus. Face and Eye Detect AF is also available for portrait photography.
• Shutter Operation: Press the shutter button halfway to focus, then fully to capture an image. The responsive touch shutter allows for quick capture by simply touching the desired focus point on the screen.
• Image Stabilization: The in-body image stabilization system helps reduce blur caused by camera shake, effective with any Micro Four Thirds lens.
• ISO Settings: Adjust the ISO sensitivity from 100 to 25,600 to control image brightness in various lighting conditions.
• White Balance: The camera automatically adjusts white balance, but manual settings are available for specific lighting environments.
• Metering: Choose from Multi, Center-weighted, or Spot metering modes to accurately measure exposure.

2.2 Advanced Features

• Art Filters: Explore 12 in-camera Art Filters (e.g., Pop Art, Soft Focus, Grainy Film, Diorama) with variations and effects to enhance creative expression.
• Sequential Shooting: Capture fast-moving subjects with 8 frames per second continuous shooting.
• Live Guide: Use the Live Guide system to preview effects like brightness, color saturation, and background blur before capturing the image. Access it via the Direct Live Guide Button.
• iAuto: This fully automated feature detects the scene and applies optimal settings for various situations.
• Bundled Flash: Attach the included flash to the accessory port for additional illumination in low-light conditions.

2.3 Video Recording

• Full 1080i HD Movie: Record high-definition video up to 29 minutes in .MOV or .AVI formats with stereo sound.
• Direct HD Movie Button: Press this button to instantly switch from still photography to video recording.
• Art Filter Movie: Apply Art Filters while recording videos, with the ability to change filters during filming and see the effect on the LCD.

3. Maintenance

• Dust Reduction System: The patented Supersonic Wave Filter vibrates silently upon camera startup to remove dust from the sensor, ensuring spot-free images.
• Cleaning the Camera Body: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the camera body. For stubborn dirt, a slightly damp cloth can be used, followed by a dry cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Cleaning the Lens: Use a lens brush or blower to remove dust. For smudges, use a specialized lens cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth.
• Battery Care: Store batteries in a cool, dry place. Avoid fully discharging the battery frequently to prolong its lifespan.
• SD Card Care: Format SD cards regularly in the camera. Avoid removing the card while the camera is writing data.

4. Troubleshooting

• Blurry Images: Ensure Image Stabilization is active. Check shutter speed; increase if too slow for current conditions. Verify focus point selection.
• Focusing Issues: In low light, the AF Illuminator can assist. Ensure sufficient contrast in the subject. Clean the lens if smudged.
• Low Light Performance: Increase ISO sensitivity (up to 25,600). Utilize the bundled flash when necessary.
• Camera Not Powering On: Check if the battery is charged and correctly inserted.
• Memory Card Error: Ensure the SD card is inserted correctly and is not full or corrupted. Try reformatting the card (this will erase all data).

5. Specifications

6. Warranty and Support

6.1 Warranty Information

Please note that this product is sold "as is" with no warranty provided. Users are advised to verify product condition upon receipt.

6.2 Customer Support

For further assistance or inquiries regarding your Olympus E-PM2 camera, please refer to the official Olympus support channels or visit their website. Contact information can typically be found on the manufacturer's official support page.