Olympus E-P1

There's a lot to like about the new Olympus E-P1.

First, let's look at the size. Claiming to the the world's smallest interchangeable lens system camera, the camera is by no means a compact point and shoot - but the beauty of this camera is that it delivers incredible images and HD Video in a relatively small form factor. It's got a very cool, retro-stainless look, and is extremely comfortable in your hands.

The LCD screen is big and bright, and offers live view, which is typical of most point and shoot cameras, but not an automatic for SLR's.

If you're already an Olympus SLR user, the E-P1 is going to be very attractive, because if backwards compatible for most Olympus lenses dating back to 1959, when the first Olympus PEN was introduced.  So, while it we be sold with a 14-42mm M.ZUIKO f/3.5-5.6 lens, there is a myriad of possibilities available with older Olympus lenses. t It also has an option FL-14 flash that fits on the top of the camera through a hot-shoe connection.

But let's talk about fun.  I had the opportunity to shoot the E-P1 around the old Coney Island (Brooklyn) amusement park yesterday (courtesy of Olympus). The park itself dates back to the early part of the century - its most famous attraction being the Cyclone roller coaster, which opened in 1927.  The setting had "retro" written all over it, which I'm sure was no accident.

While the camera offers all of the usual modes found in most SLR's and some point and shoots (aperture and shutter priority, manual modes, face detection and a 12.3 megapixel sensor,) it also contains six built-in  "Art Filters"  that can turn even the most novice photographer into a genius.

Art Filters
The six Art Filters include Pop Art (think Andy Warhol), Soft Focus, Pale and Light Color (1960's color look), Light Tone, Grainy Film (1930's) and Pin Hole. These filters can be applied through a very easy interface, and can turn a regular exposure into a time-piece work of art. And, three of the filters can also be applied to the HD Video mode (see the samples in this article). I shot some video of break-dancers with the Grainy Film and Pop Art filters turned on, and they inspired me to experiment throughout the day.

The Art Filters can bring a new level of fun to your photography at the touch of a button. I was able to shoot the famous "Wonder Wheel" ferris wheel, and with the Grainy Film art filter, turn it into a haunting image that could have been made in the 1930's. (The ominous cloudy sky didn't hurt!). On the ferry ride to the park, we also passed by the Statue of Liberty, upon which I also applied the Pin Hole art filter to render a unique look at the ubiquitous "Lady in the Harbor."  Turned on the Pop Art filter during my ride on the ferris wheel, and brought out some incredible colors from a steel cage built in the 1930's.

Unlike most camera companies, Olympus is also an audio products company, and they've also applied that expertise into the E-P1.  Their HD video capability ((720x1280 at 30 fps using progressive scan) is complimented by their high-end AV quality. Combine this with the art filters, and you have an impressive array of creative tools in the palm of your hand. Check out the video we shot using the Grainy Film Art Filter.

Bottom Line - It's Fun
After spending a day with the E-P1, I can sum it up by saying that I've never quite had that much fun, or been that impressed,  with a compact camera.  The combination of high quality images, compact size and retro shape, and creative control through their Art Filters, make it a camera that let's you experiment  in areas that in most cases are done in post-production.

The Olympus E-P1 will be available in July, body only for an estimated street price of $749.99; 
E-P1 body with ED 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko digital zoom lens, $799.99; and E-P1 with ED 17mm f/2.8 with optical viewfinder, $899.99. olympusamerica.com