The Olympus E-PL7 is the latest series camera from the popular PEN “lite” mirrorless camera line. We get to see a lot of improvements and significant upgrades from the previous models. It includes the improvement of focus speed, control, and connectivity.
E-PL7 is the sixth camera in the family series of Olympus’s midrange PEN lite line-up. It has been considered to overcome the shadow that has been put on the family by OM-D cameras. Let us check out all the details of Olympus E-PL7 in this in-depth review.
Notable Improvements
One of the most noticeable upgrades in this camera is the improved ergonomics. This gives the camera a professional flagship feeling like E-P5. The up-gradation to a 3-axis image stabilization system and ISO rising feature make it among the top pics for photography lovers. Unlike the series, this model is capable of quite many things. The device offers great value and can be considered a quality buy in this market.
The camera is also easy to carry and taking it around with you will not be an issue. Just make sure that you have the right covers for the camera.
Let us look into each of the aspects in details.
Image
Image quality is the most important aspect of any camera. Here, the makers have put special effort into improving the quality of the image.
The 16MP Live MOS sensor &TruePic VII Image processor has upgraded the quality of the camera to the next level. The processor also helps with continuous shooting. Moreover, the size of the raw image is quite good. So, if you are thinking of professional photography, then you should go with this one.
Performance
The camera takes off about 0.3 seconds to focus and shoot and 0.4 seconds in dim light, which is quite impressive. However, while shooting a moving target, the lock does not perform quite well.
Overall, the performance has been far better than other models at this price range. However, the previous models also lag, in which other companies overshadow them in this area.
Design
The camera is very nicely built, and it gives a classy look with a touch of modern design. The camera is lightweight, and the lenses are also small. It has a retro two-tone look like the E-P5.
One of the best things that are added to it is the permanent grip. However, the problem comes when we go for bigger and heavier lenses. It sometimes overbalances the camera. This is because the picture quality is not top-notch and comes distorted but compensates if small lenses are used.
Performance
The performance of Olympus E-PL7 has a lot to offer to all types of users. The shutter speed is quite remarkable than others at this price range. The opening time of the camera is quite good, and the focus time is also brilliant. It takes about 0.3 seconds to focus on an object and about 0.4 seconds if the light is dim.
Underwater
After a series of changes, we get to see the successful upgrade with improved low ISO as well as increased Flash Sync speed. And this makes the E-PL7 a solid tool for capturing great moments, even underwater.
Underwater photography is becoming popular day by day. Moreover, you never know when you might have the need to click photos underwater. Olympus E-PL7 certainly has you covered for the moment. The camera comes with a solid underwater photography option which will bring out good quality photos.
Connectivity
In previous models, this has always been an issue, but this model comes with a built-in Wi-Fi System. They have made the process even better by launching a sharing app that guides the user for the first-time setup, and then you get the functionality of sharing at your fingertips. Moreover, there are unique features like selfie GUI.
Downward opening Touch screen and other things have made this model a fantastic choice and easier than ever. The connectivity feature was very necessary, and it is solved. So, you can be sure of getting perfect photos and posting them instantly on your Facebook and Instagram.
Price
Everyone looks for the price while buying anything, and let me tell you that at this price range, it is better than the alternatives. If you are thinking of going with it, then this is the right choice. The price may be high though the features are nothing compared to E-PL7.
The camera comes at $599.99(Price subjected to changes). You can add-on the lenses according to your needs, which will be at an additional cost. It is not the cheapest, but the quality that you are getting at this price is justified. You will not regret buying it.
Pros
- It is lightweight
- 8fps continuous shooting
- Larger-capacity 8.5Wh battery
- Special app and Wi-Fi System to transfer photos and videos on the go
Cons
- The problem comes while shooting moving objects
- The grip is shallow, so while using it gets overbalance
Conclusion
If you would look past the competition of E-PL7, it does well with lots of advanced features and is worth looking for. It offers many new things like the better performance of the camera, underwater photography, etc.
The image quality has also been improved as compared to the previous versions of the series. It also provides swappable lenses, which gives customers one more reason to buy at this price range. However, the lens that is provided with the camera is not as fast as compared to the compact cameras in the market. Olympus E-PL7 can be considered a great option if you like photography and would want to pursue a serious interest in it.