Now, however, a new class of cameras aims to fill the wide gap between point-and-shoots and DSLRs. So I decided to test one of these cameras, the Olympus E-PL1, priced at $599.99, which came out in March.
The E-PL1 is the third camera in Olympus’ PEN series, a group of mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras. What that means is that the E-PL1 does not have a mirror, which are found in DSLRs, so its body is smaller. It’s not as small as a point-and-shoot, but you can change the lens on the E-PL1 just like a DSLR.
The company says the E-PL1 offers better-quality photos because its image sensor is approximately eight times larger than one in a point-and-shoot, and due to the variety of lenses offered.
It also acts like training wheels for newbie photo enthusiasts, like me. The camera’s iAuto shooting mode breaks down photo basics. Many cameras employ confusing icon-based menus, but in iAuto mode the menu is in plain English. To change brightness, simply choose “Change Brightness.” Read the rest of this entry »



