Olympus PEN Mini E-PM1 Review

Mirrorless compact cameras are worth considering if you want DSLR-like photo quality without the bulk. There are many options out there, with the most basic models priced almost the same as entry-level DSLR cameras, which is close to Rs.28,000. Olympus is one of the key players in the mirrorless compact segment. Out of the three new models announced by Olympus last year (E-P3, Lite - E-PL3) and Mini (E-PM1), the Mini is the smallest, lightest and most affordable model. Here’s a closer look.Design and Build QualityThe 12.1 megapixel E-PM1 is available in six body colours – black, white, silver, purple, pink and brown. The build quality of the body is good, but almost the entire device has a glossy finish, which attracts fingerprints too easily. The front has a mild matte finish, but that doesn’t keep the smudges at bay. The bundled M.Zuiko 14-42 mm (3x optical zoom) lens sports a metallic finish and the grainy texture on the zoom ring lends a good grip. We would have liked it more if the lens’ shell was of a better quality as it has a rather plasticky feel to it. Since the E-PM1 uses a Micro Four Thirds system in which the size of the sensor is about half that of 35 mm film format, the effective focal length of the lens would be 28 mm at the widest end and 84 mm at full zoom. This is similar to the focal length you’d get with an 18-55 mm lens on a budget or midrange DSLR. The maximum aperture at the wide and telephoto ends is F3.5 and F5.6 respectively.The front of the body bears a shiny logo, AF assist lamp and a button to release the lens. The top of the camera has a silver strip that compliments the design. Along with the on/off and the shutter release button, you’ll find a tiny grille for the speaker, apertures for stereo mics to capturing sound, while recording videos and a hot shoe for external flash strobes and optional EVF. The E-PM1 comes bundled with a clip-on flash.

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