Key Features
Nov 16 2010
Announced
12 megapixels
Resolution
| Brand | Olympus |
| Sensor Type | Four Thirds |
| Sensor | CMOS |
| Weight | 334g |
| MSRP | $550USD |
Other similar cameras
Olympus PEN E-PL1
Released May 17 2010 | 12MP resolution
Olympus PEN E-P2
Released Apr 22 2010 | 12MP resolution
Olympus PEN E-PL2
Released Feb 11 2011 | 12MP resolution
Overview of the PEN E-PL1s
If you're looking for a camera that delivers excellent photos and is easy to carry around, the Olympus PEN E-PL1s is a great choice. This mirrorless camera is designed for portability, without sacrificing the powerful features that photographers need to take amazing shots. The E-PL1s is an upgrade from the original E-PL1, with enhancements like built-in image stabilization, improved autofocus, and faster shooting speeds. Plus, with the ability to switch out lenses, you can customize this camera to fit your specific shooting needs. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Olympus PEN E-PL1s and why it's a great option for anyone looking for a compact, powerful camera.
Olympus PEN E-PL1s Pros and Cons
Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Olympus PEN E-PL1s camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!
Pros
Cons
Build and Construction
Body and dimensions
Olympus PEN E-PL1s
| Weather sealed | |
| Dimensions | 115 x 72 x 42mm |
| Weight | 334g |
| Thickness | 42mm |
Weather Sealing
The Olympus PEN E-PL1s is not sealed against water and dust, so it's important to be careful when using it in such conditions. If you often shoot in environments with water or dust, it's recommended to check out another camera with weather sealing.
Design and Handling
Main design features
| View Finder | Electronic (optional) |
| Screen Type | Fixed Type |
| Screen Resolution | 230k dots |
| Body type | Rangefinder-style mirrorless |
Suitable for:
| Photography | Above Avg. |
| Videography | Above Avg. |
| Travel | Above Avg. |
LCD Screen
This camera has a fixed type 2.70" screen, with a display resolution of 230k dots. This makes the Olympus PEN E-PL1s not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.
Viewfinder
PEN E-PL1s includes a electronic (optional) viewfinder with no electronic viewfinder of resolution with a coverage of n/a and a magnification of n/a. This feature enhances the camera's suitability for outdoor photography in bright conditions.
Image Quality
Olympus PEN E-PL1s has a 12MP sized CMOS sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 12 pixels. Olympus PEN E-PL1s has a native ISO range of 100 - 6400 which can be boosted to null - null. It can also save files in RAW format which gives you a wider room for post processing.
Key Features
Nov 16 2010
Announced
100 - 6400
ISO Range
| Sensor | Four Thirds |
| Extended ISO | null - null |
| Max resolution | 4032 x 3024 pixels |
DXO Sensor Scores
Overall
not tested
Color Depth
not tested
Dynamic Range
not tested
Low Light ISO
not tested
DXO mark sensor scores
The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Olympus PEN E-PL1s camera has excellent color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also excellent, allowing it to retain high amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is excellent, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the PEN E-PL1s is excellent
Crop Factor
Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.
Size comparison
Crop factor calculator
Crop factor
1x
Full frame equivalent
24mm
This camera: Four Thirds
24mm
Connectivity, storage, battery
| Storage | SD/SDHC |
| Battery Life | 290 shots |
| Battery Model | BLS-1 |
| HDMI | |
| USD | |
| Wireless Connectivity |
Storage
The Olympus PEN E-PL1s supports SD/SDHC with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.
Battery
The Olympus PEN E-PL1s uses the BLS-1 model of battery pack. This is rated for 290 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.
Photography Features
Flash
The Olympus PEN E-PL1s has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. It also offers a flash shoe that allows you to attach external flashes. This provides more versatility in your lighting choices.
Shutter
The Olympus PEN E-PL1s boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/2000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.
With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.
Autofocus
The Olympus PEN E-PL1s includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with 11 number of focus points.
While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.
Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.
On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.
FAQ
The Olympus PEN E-PL1s features a CMOS sensor
No the PEN E-PL1s does not have weather sealing.
The Olympus PEN E-PL1s was announced on Nov 16 2010
Yes the PEN E-PL1s does have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.
The PEN E-PL1s has a native ISO range of 100-6400, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.
Similar Camera Reviews
Olympus PEN E-PL1 - The Perfect Camera for Beginners
Are you new to photography and looking for a camera that will help you take stunning photos right out of the box? Look no further than the Olympus PEN E-PL1. Equipped with advanced features and a sleek design, this camera is perfect for beginners who want to start shooting like a pro.
Olympus PEN E-P2 Review: Is This Compact Camera Worth the Hype?
The Olympus PEN E-P2 is a highly acclaimed compact camera that boasts exceptional image quality and versatile features. In this review, we'll explore what sets this camera apart from its competitors and whether it's a good investment for photography enthusiasts.
Olympus PEN E-PL2: The Best Mirrorless Camera for Stunning Photography
Olympus PEN E-PL2 is a mirrorless camera that offers a unique combination of style and performance. This camera is perfect for photographers who want to capture stunning shots without the bulkiness of a traditional DSLR.