Olympus Imaging Corporation (President: Masaharu Okubo) is pleased to announce the OLYMPUS PEN E-P1, an interchangeable lens system digital camera compliant with the Micro Four Thirds System standard, together with associated accessories.

Main Features

1. Dignified Exterior Design - Mirrorless structure for compact, lightweight body that can be taken anywhere. Compact, metal construction expresses a sense of highly compressed power.
2. Easy of use - The iAUTO function automatically evaluates the scene and adjusts settings accordingly, while the Live Control function facilitates, easy, intuitive camera setting by selecting icons displayed on the LCD panel.
3. Power to create - The 4/3-inch High Speed Live MOS Sensor and newly developed TruePic V image processing engine offer high image quality equivalent to traditional SLR cameras. This new camera is compatible with movie shooting and high-quality audio recording in linear PCM format, and incorporates functions enabling creative photographic expressions such as the Art Filters.

The OLYMPUS PEN E-P1 is an interchangeable lens digital camera that compliant with the Micro Four Thirds System standard announced in August 2008. The nickname "OLYMPUS PEN" comes from company's legendary half-frame film camera, which was released in October 1959 and rapidly swept across the world, sold a total of 8 million^* units worldwide and forever popularizing the joy of photography with people everywhere. We decided to give the new product the same product name because this new camera brings to digital SLR photography the same breakthrough in size reduction and convenience that the original PEN, as well boasting a stylish design that echoes the charm of the original. This naming expresses our commitment to making it possible for as many people as possible to experience the true pleasure of photography at its finest.

Thanks to the Micro Four Thirds system standard, this camera features an internal structure that does not use a quick-return mirror, thereby facilitating a radical reduction in size without degrading the advantages of traditional SLR cameras such as high performance and high picture quality. The body boasts an attractive metallic finish that expresses the high quality and sense of compressed power exuded by the original "OLYMPUS PEN" series cameras.

For enhanced operability, the new OLYMPUS PEN is also equipped with the iAUTO function popular on our compact digital cameras, which automatically evaluates the scene and sets the optimum scene mode accordingly.

The imaging circuitry uses a 4/3-inch, 12.3-megapixel high speed Live MOS Sensor and a newly developed TruePic V image processing engine to provide high still image quality equivalent to traditional SLR cameras. In addition, possible the recording of 720p HD (High-Definition) movies. Stereo audio recording capability in the linear PCM format is also provided, making it easy to shoot movies with high quality. In addition, the Art Filter function - which applies exciting filter effects to images - can be applied to movie images as well as still images, expanding opportunities for creative expression.

The release of this Micro Four Thirds System compliant product is a key part of our strategy to promote a "OLYMPUS PEN E-P1" that will appeal to a wide range of users as both an introductory digital SLR camera for novices as well as a secondary camera for high-level amateurs and professionals.

*	Corrections made for error in writing

Other Features

• Built-in image stabilization mechanism with a correction effect up to 4 EV steps
• Reliable Dust Reduction system
• HDMI output for high-quality image playback
• Multi-Mix Slideshow playback with background music
• e-Portrait function for smooth rendering of skin texture
• Face detection system in combination with shadow adjustment technology
• Gradation Auto function to prevent over-exposure and under-exposure images
• MF Assist function supporting manual focusing with auto image magnification
• Accuracy 324(18x18) zone evaluated exposure measuring

Main Features

1. Dignified Exterior Design - MFTS's unique mirrorless structure makes possible a compact, lightweight camera that can be taken anywhere. With its compact design and attractive metallic finish, this bold new camera expresses a sense of compressed power.

• Mirrorless structure for compact, lightweight body that can be taken anywhere
  With conventional SLR cameras, the image is captured through the lens, passed through a mirror and pentaprism, and viewed on the viewfinder screen. With the Micro Four Thirds System standard, on the other hand, the mirror has been eliminated. With no need to incorporate a mirror box inside the camera, the length of the flange back can be reduced by about half without changing the image sensor size or compromising the image quality. Compared to our E-420 — the world's smallest^* digital SLR camera — the width has been reduced by about 8.5 mm, the height by about 20 mm and the thickness by about 18 mm. As a result, the overall volume has also been reduced by approx.58%.

  *	Among interchangeable-lens type digital SLR cameras (as of June 16, 2009, our in-house research).

• Compact design and attractive metallic finish express a sense of compressed power
  While recapturing the same sense of high quality and compressed power exuded by the original OLYMPUS PEN F, this new camera is much more than just a nostalgic tribute to the past. Instead, its design also reflects the fact that this is a digital camera that represents the future of digital photography. Finished with aluminium on the top and bottom and stainless steel on the sides and back, this camera looks good, feels good, and promises the joy to fun. 3D CAD was used to implement the design - such as the complex shape around the shutter release button and the curved surfaces on the corners. We also used highly accurate press technology to achieve a high-grade exterior with a finish that conveys a powerful sense of precision.

2. Easy of use - High-Speed Imager AF enhances comfort of Live View shooting. The Live Control function facilitates easy, intuitive camera setting by selecting icons displayed on the LCD, while the iAUTO function automatically evaluates the scene and adjusts settings accordingly.

• High-Speed Imager AF enhancing comfort of Live View shooting
  The E-P1's autofocusing system uses our High-Speed Imager AF, which detects the contrast values on the image sensor and drives the lens to the position where the peak values are obtained. This focus adjustment method enables Live View shooting with the same ease of use offered by compact digital cameras, so even a person unfamiliar with digital SLRs can easily take excellent pictures of SLR quality.
• Live Control function facilitates easy, intuitive camera setting by selecting icons displayed on the LCD panel
  The newly developed Live Control function allows even a person unfamiliar with digital SLRs to start using the camera immediately after purchasing it, allowing them to adjust settings easily and intuitively while viewing the Live View monitor. Icons that correspond to all of the camera's buttons and dials are displayed on the Live View monitor and can be easily selected and operated using the main and sub dials - all without the user having to take their eyes off the image on the monitor. Any changes made are applied to the Live View image in real time, allowing the user to concentrate on shooting pictures.
• iAUTO function automatically evaluating the scene and adjusting settings accordingly
  iAUTO is a fully automatic camera setting mode, which automatically sets the optimum scene mode (Portrait / Landscape / Macro / Sports / Night Scene / Night Scene & Portrait) when the camera is pointed at the subject. This function ensures that the optimum shooting mode is set without the user having to spend time adjusting the camera when a momentary shooting opportunity arises.

3. Power to create - The 4/3-inch, 12.3-megapixel High-Speed Live MOS Sensor and newly developed TruePic V image processing engine offer high image quality equivalent to conventional SLR cameras. This new camera offers HD movie shooting, high-quality linear PCM audio recording, as well as versatile new functions for creative photographic expression such as the Art Filter.

• 4/3-inch, 12.3-megapixel High-Speed Live MOS Sensor and newly developed TruePic V image processing engine offer high image quality equivalent to conventional SLR cameras
  The image sensor uses a 4/3-inch High-Speed Live MOS Sensor featuring 12.3 megapixels and high-speed image processing. Exactly the same sensor size as the Four Thirds System standard, this sensor captures high-resolution images that accurately reproduce the intended composition with exquisite detail, rich gradations and natural colours.
  The newly developed TruePic V image processing engine delivers clearer, higher-resolution images by exploiting the full performance of the lens. Sophisticated noise reduction that removes noise without obliterating details allows high-sensitivity shooting at ISO 6400 and beautifully reproduces delicate colour changes even in shooting without a flash.
• HD movie shooting and high-quality linear PCM audio recording
  HD-quality movies can be recorded with the widescreen 16:9 (1280 x 720, 30 fps) aspect ratio, as well as with the standard 4:3 (640 x 480, 30 fps) ratio. Because the image sensor is much larger than those used in normal camcorders, this camera not only delivers higher image quality but also makes it possible to exploit a variety of effects unique to interchangeable-lens photography, such as the defocused image backgrounds produced by controlling the aperture or the arresting perspectives that can be achieved with different interchangeable lenses. The electronic image stabilization mechanism is built into the body so it can stabilize movie images and reduce camera shake regardless of the lens used.
  The Art Filters can also be applied to movies^* so stylish movies can be created with the user's own personal stamp. In addition, the movie + still image shooting function automatically saves the last frame of the movie as a still image. The audio portion is recorded using the linear PCM format - a digital non-compressed recording format featuring high sound quality. Just like Olympus's top-rated digital IC recorders, this camera delivers superior audio quality with high fidelity. Audio post-recording is also easy to do right on the camera.

  *	When an Art Filter is used, the frame rate varies according to the Art Filter type.

• Versatile new functions for creative photographic expression such as the Art Filter
  Versatile new functions for creative photographic expression such as the Art Filter Incorporating the same Art Filter function introduced on our E-30 and E-620 digital SLR cameras, the E-P1 makes it easy for anyone to create photographic images that reflect their own personal vision. The Art Filter effects can also be applied to previously recorded RAW images. This means that various effects can be applied to previously recorded RAW data using the camera alone.
  The following 6 Art Filters are incorporated in this camera :
  POP ART
  Enhances colours, making them stronger and more vivid, creating high-impact pictures with a pop art feeling
  SOFT FOCUS
  Gives images a light, ethereal look and evokes a dreamy, mystical mood
  PALE & LIGHT COLOUR
  Utilizes muted colour tonalities to create a mood of reflection and nostalgia
  LIGHT TONE
  Subdues highlights and shadows to reflect the ambience of a perfectly illuminated scene
  GRAINY FILM
  Recreates the rich, grainy look and tonality of black & white photography, imparting a dramatic feel to images
  PIN HOLE
  Reduces the peripheral brightness, recreating the unique style and colouring produced by toy cameras
• Multi-Aspect function for selection from 4 aspect ratios
  Four aspect ratios are available: standard 4:3; 16:9 for impressive, cinematic-style widescreen images; 6:6 - used by medium-format cameras; and 3:2, which is equivalent to the 35mm film size. The image obtained from the selected aspect ratio can be checked on the Live View monitor so that optimum one can be selected according to the intention and purpose.
• Multi-exposure function with Live View monitor display of current view superimposed on previously captured image
  With multi-exposure, a previously recorded RAW data image is displayed as the base image on the Live View monitor while another image is shot and superimposed. The final result can be checked on the monitor before shooting and the gain is corrected automatically by the camera. Images stored on the memory card can also be superimposed via the play / edit menu (RAW data only, up to 3 pictures). This makes possible not only the multi-exposure of consecutive scenes but also synthesis of an image by superimposing images recorded at different times and places.

Other Features

• Built-in image stabilization mechanism with a correction effect up to 4 EV steps^*
  The body incorporates a new compact, high-performance image stabilization mechanism that compensates for camera shake by up to 4 EV steps^* regardless of the lens used and is even effective during horizontal panning. The image stabilization mechanism also works when the optional MMF-1 Four Thirds Adapter, the optional MF-2 OM Adapter is used. In this case, the user simply enters the appropriate focal length.

  *	According to our in-house testing conditions.

• Reliable Dust Reduction System
  If dirt or dust gets inside the camera body during lens replacement and attaches to the low-pass filter or image sensor, it will be captured in the image and spoil it. Because the image sensor is not covered by a shutter unit, this problem is even more critical with this camera. Olympus took the lead in finding a solution at the very beginning of development of interchangeable-lens type digital SLR cameras. Whenever the camera is turned on, the SSWF (Super-Sonic Wave Filter) installed in front of the image sensor is automatically activated, blasting dust away from the image sensor with supersonic vibrations. Removed dust is caught by a dust absorber. The tremendous power of the supersonic waves can even remove dust that cannot be removed merely by shaking the image sensor or dust that is attached by intermolecular force and cannot be removed by discharging static electricity.
  Because this camera is based on the Micro Four Thirds System standard, we modified the Dust Reduction System, changing the SSWF shape from circular to rectangular and dividing the supersonic oscillator into two vertically arranged sections in order to reduce the size of the unit, while maintaining its high efficiency.
• HDMI output for high-quality image playback
  The camera can be connected to an HDMI-equipped TV set via a commercially available HDMI mini-cable to view high-quality HD movies and still images on a large TV screen together with stereo audio.
• Multi-Mix Slideshow playback with background music
  Slideshows that mix still images, movies and sound can be created. The camera incorporates 5 kinds of background music composed by a Japanese famous music creator DAISHIDANCE, as well as slideshow control functions including still image fade-in/out, audio post-recording, and background music volume adjustment.
• e-Portrait function for smooth rendering of skin texture
  The "e-Portrait" scene mode compensates for skin for a smoother texture. When e-Portrait is set before shooting, the camera saves the images both before and after compensation*. The compensation effect can also be added in the edit mode after shooting to further improve the look of the best shot.
• Shadow Adjustment Technology for beautifully balanced exposures of foreground subjects and background scenery
  The camera's Face Detection function of the camera detects up to 8 faces and optimizes focus and exposure appropriately. The Shadow Adjustment Technology function is interlocked with Face Detection and optimally controls the exposure of the human faces and the background scenery. If human faces look dark during shooting against backlight, this function activates the Gradation Auto function to brighten the faces without over-exposing the background, making it easy to shoot pictures that look as natural what you see with your own eyes. Face Detection is also usable during image playback and the detected faces can be magnified to check the facial expressions in the picture.
• Gradation Auto function to prevent over-exposed and under-exposed images
  When the gradation is set to Auto, the Shadow Adjustment Technology is activated to adjust the brightness of highlighted and shadowed areas, preventing over-exposure or under-exposure, producing images that look as natural what you see with your own eyes.
  A total of four gradation settings are available: High Key, Standard (default), Low Key, and Auto.
• MF Assist function supporting manual focusing with auto image magnification
  During manual focusing, turning the focus ring magnifies the central part of image by 7X or 10X automatically. This enables accurate focusing by observing the magnified image on the Live View monitor.
• Level Gauge display on Live View monitor
  Using the dual axis sensor incorporated in the camera, a 2-direction level gauge corresponding to vertical and horizontal directions can be displayed on the Live View monitor. This is convenient when the image does not contain a line indicating horizontality or when shooting in the dark.
• Highly accurate 324-area metering system
  This metering mode divides the image area into an 18 x 18 grid, metering each of 324 separate areas to obtain optimum exposure with high accuracy even under complex light conditions. A total of three metering modes are available, including the centre-weighted metering and spot metering as well as the 324-area digital ESP metering.

Electronic Flash FL-14

E-P1 with FL-14 Electronic Flash mounted

• Electronic Flash FL-14
  The FL-14 is an external flash featuring a simple but attractive design that complements the design of the E-P1 camera. Despite its compact size and light weight, the FL-14 features the GN (Guide Number) of 20 (ISO200), assuring flash shooting with stable light and optimum brightness.

Optical Viewfinder VF-1

E-P1 with M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 17mm f2.8 Lens and VF-1 Optical Viewfinder mounted

• Optical Viewfinder VF-1
  The VF-1 is an optical viewfinder designed that can be attached externally when the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 17mm f2.8 lens is used. It is capable of supporting quick shooting taking advantage of the lens' full range. It uses a bight frame type 17 mm viewfinder display to enable comfortable picture composition.

Body Jacket CS-10BWT (White, left) and CS-10BBR (Brown, right)

E-P1 with M.ZUIKO DIGITAL17mm f2.8 Lens and CS-10BWT Body Jacket (White) combined

• Body Jackets CS-10BWT (White) / CS-10BBR (Brown)
  Available in white (CS-10BWT) or brown (CS-10BBR), these stylish leather camera jackets are specifically designed for the E-P1 camera. As well as being durable enough to protect the camera against damage and shock, they also convey the sense of classical elegance and craftsmanship that comes with genuine leather. Styled to complement and enhance the design of the E-P1, these jackets will make you proud to carry and show off this camera. Naturally, they are designed to enable both shooting and playback via the LCD panel on the rear of the camera.

Shoulder Strap CSS- S109LLWT (White)

Shoulder Strap S109LLBR (Brown)

• Shoulder Straps CSS-S109LLWT (White) / CSS-S109LLBR (Brown)
  Available in white (CSS-S109LLWT) or brown (CSS-S109LLBR), these leather shoulder straps can be adjusted to different length. They can even be optimized for slinging over your shoulder and across your body. Two colours are available for coordination with the body jacket of the same colour.

Four Thirds Adapter MMF-1

OM Adapter MF-2

• Four Thirds Adapter MMF-1
  The MMF-1 is a lens mount adapter that enables any existing Four Thirds lens to be mounted on the E-P1 camera. With the Olympus ZUIKO DIGITAL lenses, shooting with autofocusing is possible. Four Thirds System-compliant lenses from other manufacturers can be mounted as well.

• OM Adapter MF-2
  The MF-2 is a lens mount adapter that allows the user to mount an OM system lens — the compact system lens used with our traditional SLR film cameras. With the MF-2, users can freely combine legacy assets from the era of the 35mm film camera with the latest technologies of the E-P1 including movie shooting, Art Filter effects and built-in image stabilization mechanism.

  *	Production of OM system lenses has been discontinued.

Related Links

OLYMPUS PEN Product Information