Olympus have announced their second Micro FourThirds camera, the Olympus PEN E-P2. Essentially a modified version of the existing Olympus E-P1, the new E-P2 retains the basic specifications and control interface, but adds an accessory port for optional extras such as a detachable electronic viewfinder (EVF) and microphones, AF tracking, two additional Art Filters (Diorama and Cross Process), a colour-boosting i-Enhance function, remote slideshow control via HDMI, and an option to shoot high-definition movies in M (full manual) mode. Another point of difference is that the E-P2 is finished in black rather than silver or white. The Olympus E-P2 will become available in January 2010. The recommended retail price of the E-P2 kit (including a 14-42mm lens and a high-resolution external EVF) is expected to be £849. The US MSRP for the same kit is $1,099.99.

Update: Ian Burley has posted a hands-on preview of the Olympus E-P2 over at Four Thirds User.

Olympus Press Release

PEN - The next chapter: Back to black

London, 5 November 2009 – Welcome back to the PEN story and the next chapter: “Back to Black”. This latest retro-chic digital Olympus PEN builds on EISA’s 2009/2010 “Best Camera of the Year”, an icon of style and quality. To enrich photographic and video potential, the new E-P2 includes a port for an electronic viewfinder or external microphones. Two additional Art Filters combine with the new i-Enhance function for even more creativity and image enhancement.

Cloaked in classic black, the hybrid photo and HD movie Olympus PEN boldly brings fun and simplicity back to SLR quality. It’s the next exciting chapter in a photographic story that is set to run and run. Available from January 2010 for around £850* including the electronic viewfinder.

Adding to the range of compatible optics, two new Micro Four Thirds lenses are due in the first half of 2010: the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 9-18mm F4.0-5.6 (18-36mm*) super wide-angle zoom and M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 14-150mm F4.0-5.6 (28-300mm*) high-power telephoto zoom.  Prices to be confirmed.

Building on brilliance
The new generation of PEN (E-P2) boasts an enviable pedigree. It comes hot on the heels of Olympus’ award-winning first Micro Four Thirds System camera inspired by the revolutionary Maitani design of the original PEN series. This second digital model takes usability and functionality even further by with diverse fresh features:

Accessory port for accessories like viewfinder and microphones
Two additional Art Filters (Diorama and Cross Process)
Colour-boosting i-Enhance function
AF tracking
Remote slideshow control (via HDMI)
HD movies in M-mode

Experience true framing freedom
A dedicated accessory port on the back of the camera extends flexibility. The first compatible device, an electronic viewfinder is included with the E-P2. Enjoy bright, high-resolution depictions under all conditions and a 100% field of view. Tiltable by up to 90°, reminiscent of medium format camera viewfinders it also promotes shooting from unique perspectives. Viewing picture information and adjustments as you go is a given. More accessory port attachments starting with an external microphone adapter for a variety of microphones will also follow soon.

Click for creativity
Inspiring creativity, two new Art Filters join the six already introduced by the E-P1. Use Diorama to create the illusion of a model world or flip colours around with Cross Process, both available for use in still or HD movie mode. Meanwhile, the new i-Enhance function boosts specified colours within the frame to add even more punch to the image if you so desire. Like its predecessor, the E-P2 offers the choice of aspect ratios and multiple exposures. Also remaining on board is the level gauge, i-Auto mode, and the flattering e-Portrait option.

AF tracking is added making the sharp capture of moving subjects easier than ever and when it’s time to take a look at the results, just kick back and relax as high-definition slideshows and HD movies can be viewed using the remote of a TV set connected to the camera via HDMI.

A legacy of chic styling and SLR quality continues
The latest PEN inherits the inimitable looks and ultra-compact form of its critically-acclaimed sister model in addition to all its outstanding technologies. Photographers benefit from a defined high-end standard based on the Micro Four Thirds System that guarantees SLR quality results. The large pool of compatible interchangeable lenses provides tremendous versatility – from the ultra-slimline M.ZUIKO DIGITAL Pancake to the complete Four Thirds lens line-up (with adapter). Attachment of an external flash unit, such as the retro-styled Olympus FL-14, extends the possibilities even more.

Reliably crisp images are secured through the 12.3 Megapixel Live MOS sensor combined with a dust reduction system and high-performance in-camera image stabilisation giving protection against shake to 4 EV. And at the core of this PEN is the guarantor for fast, top-quality image processing, even at up to ISO 6400: the state-of-the-art TruePic V engine. The Live Control GUI simplifies operation while the effect of functions can be monitored in real time – on both the 7.6cm/3.0” HyperCrystal LCD and the 1,440,000 dot electronic viewfinder.

HD movie magic
Capable of recording AVI format movies in 30fps 1280x720p HD resolution and boasting immaculate PCM sound quality, the PEN also lets users discover the magic of movie making. Seven minutes of footage can be recorded in a single shot. Furthermore, many still photography functions and options; including the application of Art Filters, depth of field, angle of view and AF tracking, remain operational in movie mode. Another new perk is the ability to film using the M-mode, good news for those with a creative touch. And because shooting is possible using any attached lens, a whole new world of framing potential emerges. Users can also capture high resolution still shots while filming at the touch of a button.

The Olympus E-P2 builds on its coveted predecessor’s wealth of high-performance temptations. “With the first PEN, many journalists and experts already told us that we had defined a totally new camera segment. Adding superb new features like an accessory port, viewfinder and new Art Filters has made an already incredible camera even better” explains Mark Thackara, National Marketing Manager at Olympus UK. This retro-cool model is finished in classic black and will become available from January 2010 at a price of £849 including the electronic viewfinder. An optional, matching black leather body jacket will also be on offer.

The Olympus E-P2 – main features:

Small & stylish design
Extremely small and light-weight Micro Four Thirds System
Stylish design with black metal finish
Accessory port to clip-on electronic viewfinder and microphone adapter

SLR image quality
12.3 Megapixel Live MOS Sensor
TruePic V image processor
Built-in IS with max. 4 EV steps efficiency
Adapter for all ZUIKO DIGITAL & OM lenses

Easy operation
Live Control GUI for intuitive handling & real-time views of effects
Automatic recognition of common scenes possible with i-Auto
i-Enhance function to boost colours
Clear skin with e-Portrait
AF Tracking
Two dials for easy handling
Face Detection and Shadow Adjustment Technology
20 shooting modes (5 exposure, i-Auto, 14 scene modes)

Creativity & HD Movie
HD Movie with stereo sound featuring depth of field and Art Filters now available in M-mode
8 Art Filters, Multi-Aspect ratios
Multi Exposure function
Art Filters can be applied to previously taken RAW images in the camera and with Olympus software
Enhanced creativity with special lenses e.g. fisheye is available via Four Thirds lens adapter

Additional features of the Olympus E-P2:
Based on the Micro Four Thirds Standard
HDMI interface
Linear PCM sound recording
Level gauge
Hi-Speed USB 2.0 interface
3fps with sequential shooting (max. 10 in RAW mode)
ISO 100-6400
Bracketing functions for white balance and exposure
Supersonic Wave Filter dust reduction system
Wide dynamic range in highly lit areas
Simultaneous writing of RAW and JPEG
SD memory card slot (SDHC compatible)
High-speed data writing and lossless RAW compression
7.6cm/3.0” HyperCrystal LCD
AE/AF lock functionality
Auto gradation adjustment to prevent blown highlights and
blocked-in shadows
Remote release possible via the optional remote cable RM-UC1

New accessories:
M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 9-18mm F4.0-5.6 super wide-angle zoom lens (first half of 2010)
M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 14-150mm F4.0-5.6 high-power telephoto zoom lens (first half of 2010)
Leather strap in black
Leather body jacket in black

* 35mm equivalent

Image Gallery

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