Sunday, May 1, 2011

E5 in review: Professional D-SLR from Olympus

E5 is the successor to the Olympus E-3. Basically, there are many similarities between both. The camera is actually categorized as a micro four thirds digital camera than a D-SLR. Now, the micro four thirds camera is equipped with ability to records HD resolution video.

E5: Smaller image sensor, better quality

The High Speed Live MOS sensor offers an aspect ratio of 4:3 and an area of 17.3 x 13 millimeters. It is slightly smaller than the APS-C sensors, which are found in many DSLR models from other manufacturers. Photos reach a maximum size of 12.3 megapixels and an HD video resolution.

The images of the Olympus E5 shine with its high level of detail, clear outlines, pleasing contrasts and natural-looking colors. However, it suffers with the poor automatic white balance. User should perform the white balance manually for optimum results.

A very slight image noise can be found at ISO 800 when the images viewed in original size. Even at maximum ISO 6400 the image distortion is very low.

E5

The camera records videos with resolution of 1,280 x 720 pixels at 30 fps. Color films offer the same high quality as the photos, but with a lower level of detail. Olympus E5 records sound in mono mode. External microphone connection is not possible. However, the internal microphone works very well and low of noise; even the soft conversation can be very well recorded. The auto focus in video recording provides good results.

Olympus E5 has several buttons that are located across the entire camera and user can change many settings directly. The menu and info display are very clear..

Due to the size of the camera, both hands are needed to reach all controls. These all have nice clear pressure points. The assignment of the "Fn" key is determined by user.

The Zuiko Digital with an internal width of 12 to 60 mm was on the camera. The auto focus leaves a mixed impression: It takes longer time for focusing a subject than other SLR cameras.

The optical image stabilizer available Olympus E5. It moves the image sensor vertically and horizontally and gives up to five additional exposure levels, in which shots without camera shake.

On the back there is a 3-inch display screen that can be opened and rotated. With a resolution of 920,000 pixels, it displays many details and has wide viewing angle, at around 170 degrees. The monitor builds upon the good sized optical viewfinder in which the main shooting settings can be seen.

The housing made of a magnesium alloy, which is protected against dust and splash water. Inside is a stable metal frame. It leaves approximately 1.8 pounds without lens.

The E5 has two memory card slots and compatible with any types of SD and Compact Flash cards. A lithium-ion battery provides the power.

On the right side there are a number of interfaces. The microphone input, HDMI and USB port and audio output are under the same plastic cover. The connections for a remote control or an external flash are secured with screw caps.

E5

E5: Conclusion

The Olympus E5 is clearly an SLR camera for experienced photographers, and not an entry-level model. It provides a comprehensive service, which does not include tools for beginners. The camera also has a rich feature set and excellent image quality.

Olympus sells the E5 in the company's online store for $169.99 and $169.00 on Amazon.




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Alternative D-SLR for beginner: Nikon D3100

Title Post: E5 in review: Professional D-SLR from Olympus
Rating: 100% based on 2069 ratings. 5 user reviews.
Author: the Wicaksonos Family

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