Interchangeable Lens

The latest entry-level PEN camera comes with a new kit lens, adjustable Art Filters and support for additional accessories.Announced in early January, the E-PL2 is a fourth-generation model in Olympus’s PEN family of compact interchangeable lens cameras. Featuring the same 12.3-megapixel Live MOS Sensor as the E-PL1, the new model has a redesigned user interface and larger, higher-resolution LCD monitor. A built-in flash has been added, along with a new M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II MSC kit lens that is 25% lighter than its predecessor.

A new flagship model in the PEN series of interchangeable-lens cameras provides improved functionality and support for Full HD video.The E-P3 is the flagship model of three PEN-series cameras announced by Olympus at the end of June. The 12.3-megapixel sensor from previous PEN models continues in all three cameras, which differ in body size, appearance and functionality. The E-P3 introduces a number of enhancements, among them the addition of a built-in flash and refinements to the autofocusing system, thanks largely to a new, more powerful image processor.

Olympus’s first Micro Four Thirds camera targets the gap between digicams and DSLRs for serious photographers and also supports HD video recording.The Olympus Pen E-P1 is the third Micro Four Thirds (MFT) camera to reach the market and is quite different from the Panasonic G-series models that preceded it. Capitalising on the heritage of the popular ‘Pen’ series cameras, which were launched 50 years ago, it comes with a Four Thirds format, 12.3-megapixel (effective) Live MOS image sensor that supports both still and HD video capture.

A sophisticated ‘hybrid’ camera that combines SLR-like controls for still capture with HD video plus stereo sound recording.Like some of the most recent DSLRs, Panasonic’s new DMC-GH1 offers the added benefit of high-definition video capture – but also provides stereo sound recording. First shown at Photokina 2008, the GH1 is based on Panasonic’s first Micro Four Thirds System (MFT) camera, the DMC-G1, and offers most of the same features for still capture. Unlike the G1, which came in black, red and blue, the GH1 will only be sold locally with a black body. In line with their MFT design, both cameras lack reflex mirror viewfinders but they provide the interchangeable lenses and sophisticated controls of the DSLR format in smaller, lighter bodies and are offered with MFT lenses.

An update to the popular GF1 that is smaller and features a redesigned interface with touch-screen controls.Panasonic’s Lumix DMC-GF2 arrives in retail stores in January 2011, roughly 15 months after we reviewed its predecessor, the GF1. The new model, which will be available in black or white, has the same rangefinder-like styling as its predecessor but is targeted at everyday photographers instead of photo enthusiasts. Accordingly, its user interface has been simplified and a touch-screen interface replaces many button and dial controls.

The latest addition to Panasonic’s G-series micro four thirds cameras offers higher resolution, touch screen control and a lower price tag.Panasonic has reduced the price of its latest G-series camera, the Lumix DMC-G3, which is $200 cheaper than the model is replaces was upon initial release. Sensor resolution has been increased to 16 megapixels in the new model and full HD video recording capability is a step up from the G2. The G3 is also marginally smaller and lighter than its predecessor.

A feature-rich, customisable, G-Micro series camera designed for photo enthusiasts.The latest addition to Panasonic’s popular Lumix G Micro System range has been designed to provoke interest among photo enthusiasts. The new GX1, which will be available locally early in 2012, is the company’s most feature-rich and photographer-friendly model to date. Equipped with the 16-megapixel Live MOS sensor introduced in the G3, it boasts a new rangefinder design, a mode dial and several customisable controls.

The first PEN series camera with a tilting 3.0-inch widescreen monitor screen.The PEN Lite E-PL3 sits in the centre of the new PEN camera range and features the same image sensor and processor as the flagship E-P3 as well as that camera’s FAST AF system and support for 1080i Full HD video capture. With an RRP $200 less than the E-P3’s, a few features have been lost. The LCD screen has lower resolution but it tilts and provides 16:9 viewing. There’s no built-in flash, no grip moulding, four fewer Art Filters, no level gauge and top flash synch is 1/160 second (instead of 1/180 second).