E-System E-1: The world's first true DSLR camera

Late 2003 Olympus introduced their long awaited and first Digital SLR. This was also their first SLR camera since the demise of the OM system 2000/2002. It was met with some critical acclaim as the expectation was for a higher MP CCD equipped camera. E-1 has many fine design and engineering niceties. Olympus told us then, and still insist that for digital imaging the lens is mightier than the CCD. For those of us who use the E-1 I believe there is general concensus with this view.

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E-300 (Discontinued)

The pressure on Olympus to increase their pixel count intensified during 2004. It was inevitable that a response would follow. Sure enough, later in the year the E-300 was announced with a Kodak imager of 8.8MP utilising 8MP. However, this time the critics weren't happy with the design - a flat-topped and unusual look brought about by using a Porro system rather than a prism. However it sells well regardless.

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E-500 - 8MP

In a surprise move in September 2005 Olympus caught everyone off-guard by announcing another DSLR. Most observers expected a replacement for the E-1 but instead the E-500 was announced. This time Olympus addresses the criticism over the rather ugly E-300 with a more conventional (but not true prism) type DSLR. With virtually identical specifications to the E-300 it challenges the lower end offerings from Canon and Nikon. The E-500 is selling like hot cakes!

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E-330 - 7.4MP & Live-View

To demonstrate that innovative thinking is alive and well and living at Olympus Imaging, Japan, the company announced in Spring of 2006 the E-330. This is the world's first DSLR camera with 'Live-View' or a live preview that is enjoyed by virtually all compact digicams. Showing 4/3rds cooperation it is fitted with a 7.4 MP Live-MOS imager from Panasonic, its new partner.

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E-400 - 10MP

Just when everyone was convinced the next model to be announced in Autumn of 2006 would be the E-1 replacement, Olympus surprised us again with the world's smallest and lightest DSLR; the diminutive E-400. At last Olympus are taking advantage of the 4/3rds promise of smaller DSLR's. Complete with 2 specially designed 'Blue Band' lenses this offering will be popular with those wanting light weight and portability.

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E-410 - 10MP & Live-View

More or less identical to the E-400 except this model has a Panasonic imager to facilitate Live View rather than the Kodak of the E-400. There are other slight differences such as a larger buffer and a new RAW compression algorithm. This is the new 'entry level' Olympus DSLR machine. Small, light, portable plus Live-View - this is why Olympus dropped the C-series machines.

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E-510 - 10MP + IS & Live-View

As well specified as the E-500 before it but this incarnation is fitted with the Panasonic imager to enable Live-View and built-in Image Stabilization on the sensor, not lens based as we might have expected. However a non-articulating LCD screen reduces the usability of the Live-View facility. Olympus' advanced amateur or intermediate grade model.

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E-3 - 10.1MP + IS & Live-View

Four years after the release of the E-1 the E-3 arrived October 2007. The new top grade offering has a new Panasonic sensor of 10.1MP, triple processing engines, Twin mode Image Stabilization in body, entirely new viewfinder with 100% coverage & 1.15X magnification, new AF system with 11 cross points, Live View on new two axis LCD panel, 5 fps, new shutter to 1/8000th, flash synch 1/250th, with SWD lenses the fastest AF system in the world and optional twin battery power grip.

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ZD 7-14mm

Introduced in Spring 2005 the 7-14mm ZD underlines Olympus' ambition to create superior 'Designed for Digital' optical lenses. This is the third lens in their SUPER HIGH GRADE range and is currently the world's widest f4 zoom lens. Highly acclaimed for its remarkable sharpness it is regarded by many as a marker for other lens makers to follow.

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ZD 8mm Fisheye

A new addition to the mid range or HIGH GRADE lenses from Olympus the 8mm Fisheye will be internationally available in Spring 2006. A diagonal Fisheye lens incorporating 10 elements including 1 ED with close focus to 2cm. For spectacular 180 degree Field of View. (Watch those ears!)

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ZD 11-22mm

This super-wide-angle lens was an early addition to the Zuiko Digital HIGH GRADE lens line up. This lens is an inevitable result of Olympus' decision to run with the 4/3rds standard; meaning there is an inherent XXX factor, or put simply a doubling of the stated focal length compared to 35mm lenses. At its widest end this lens just about reaches the equivalent width of the fabled OM 21mm.

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ZD 12-60mm SWD

This new lens is in the HIGH GRADE range. Is this a replacement for the ZD14-54 AND the ZD11-22mm lenses? The ZD14-54 has attracted some criticism for being an inconsistent performer and there has been speculation about phasing out the well recieved ZD11-22; this lens may well be the reason. Interestingly the lens is Super Wave Drive (SWD) and has mechanical manual focusing.

ZD 14-35mm new style SWD

SUPER HIGH GRADE lens. Now we can see what the delay was about. This lens has been completely redesigned in light of criticism of being too big and heavy. This underlines Olympus' committment to the E-system. Interestingly the lens is SWD and has mechanical manual focusing. It will be available late 2007 to early 2008.

No more information at present.

ZD 14-42mm Compact

In a surprise announcement in September 2006 the E-400 was introduced. Olympus offers two compact and lightweight lenses especially designed for the E-400 in the STANDARD or BUDGET range. The ZD 14-42mm is the 'standard' zoom (see ZD 40-150 for other). These compact lenses are denoted by a 'blue chrome' band which rather looks like the silver ring of the Top Grade Pro models.

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ZD 14-45mm

As a direct response to a major criticism of Olympus; their lenses are too expensive, making the E-System less appealing to the amatuer market, the company respond in 2005 with a STANDARD or BUDGET range of lenses, primarily for the E-300. This is the basic zoom offering. Less bright than the higher grade range and not equipped with dust and moisture proofing they do however keep the system price down allowing modest cost entry into DSLR.

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ZD 14-54mm

This is the work horse and 'standard' zoom lens of the E-systems HIGH GRADE range, equivalent of 28-108mm in 35mm film lens terms. Designed to accompany the E-1 it has met with acclaim and criticism. It seems that the results from the 14-54 are less than consistent. I had issues with my own, but in fairness to Olympus, these have been satisfactorily resolved.

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ZD 17.5-45mm

In a further development of the 'economy' or STANDARD or BUDGET range, and designed especially for the new E-500 the 17.5-45mm ZD introduced in September/October 2005 continues the theme. Olympus answer their critics by offering a cheaper DSLR body with an even more affordable standard zoom lens available in certain countries as part of the E-500 SE Kit (Standard Economy).

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ZD 18-180mm

In a further development of the 'economy' or STANDARD or BUDGET range, the new 18-180mm ZD introduced in 2006 offers a great 'walkabout' or travelling lens. This lens has received mixed reviews but with such a focal length spread some compromises have been made. Sigma showed a similar 4/3rds fit 18-200 in their programme, but for unknown reasons this has been dropped.

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ZD 35mm Macro

Continuing the 'economy' theme Olympus introduce their new 35mm x f=3.5 ZD Macro lens at the same time as the new E-500 body. This lens sits in their STANDARD or BUDGET range, bringing true Macro imaging to the amatuer market at an affordable price.

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ZD 35-100mm

In Autumn of 2005 Olympus announce the 35-100mm super bright ZD. With a constant f=2.0 throughout the range this is a stunning specification. With ED glass, a 21 element structure and a nine bladed circular aperture this lens is designed for maximum bokeh; ideal for portraiture, indoor events as well as sport. Another addition to the SUPER HIGH GRADE range of ZD's.

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ZD 40-150mm Compact

The second compact lens especially designed for the E-400. Olympus offers two compact and lightweight lenses especially designed for the new lightweight DSLR E-400, both in the STANDARD or BUDGET range. The ZD 40-150mm is a compact telephoto zoom (see ZD 14-42 for other). These compact lenses are denoted by a 'blue chrome' band which rather looks like the silver ring of the Top Grade Pro models.

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ZD 40-150mm

Alongside the new zoom that accompanies the E-300 comes another 'budget' option, the medium telephoto ZD, the 40-150mm. Priced keenly this extends the STANDARD or BUDGET range of lenses to 300mm in 35mm film terms. With a maximum aperture of f=4.5 at the long end this lens is no slouch and proves to be an excellent performer.

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ZD 50mm Macro

The 50mm ZD Macro lens was part of the original E-System announcement in late 2003. With the 14-54mm, 50-200mm and the 300mm this lens completed the early line-up. The 50mm Macro was the cheapest lens available of the original clutch of lenses, but at £400 it was no give-away! It soon establishes itself with the Macro fraternity for it's exceptionally sharp results. It is designated as HIGH GRADE in the Olympus range.

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ZD 50-200mm

The 50-200mm lens was part of the original E-System announcement in late 2003 and is in the HIGH GRADE range. It has received high acclaim from all its users. A stellar performer with a straight 4 times reach, high levels of native sharpness and a delightful bokeh this lens is truly magnificent. Though not enjoying the fixed aperture of the latest zooms, at f=3.5 at 200mm it is a mile faster than anything OM offered.

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ZD 50-200mm SWD

The 50-200mm is regarded by many as the best high grade zoom currently offered. This new lens rather confirms that as it has an identical specification but enjoys the new SWD motorised AF system for higher speed focusing and is in the HIGH GRADE range.

No more information at present.

ZD 70-300mm

A completely new lens falling into the STANDARD or BUDGET grading. It has a massive zoom range which is going to be difficult to handhold without IS found in the most up to date model yet - the E510. A little slow for such a reach. Definitely a 'budget' long zoom.

No more information at present.

ZD 90-250mm

Announced September 2005, this SUPER HIGH GRADE offering is f=2.8 throughout the zoom range. With 17 elements including 3 ED and a 9 bladed circular aperture this is one pricey bit of kit; the second most expensive of the ZD lenses.

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ZD 150mm

Winner of the 2004 TIPA Best High End Lens Award the SUPER HIGH GRADE 150mm ZD prime telephoto is already renowned by nature/wildlife photographers. At f=2.0, an 11 element contruction, one ED and one super ED element and a 9 bladed aperture the bokeh is superb. Known affectionately as the Baby Tuna.

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ZD 300mm

The current ZD Lens flagship. A SUPER HIGH GRADE 2.8 x 300mm (600mm 35mm equivalent) Super Telephoto prime lens. Boasting 3 ED elements, a 13 element construction and a rear mounted drop-in filter system, this is truly a wonderous beast! The 300mm lenses are hand built to order only. Hugely expensive and known as the 'Big Tuna'.

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ZD (EC) 1.4 Tele-converter

As with most lens systems manufacturers like to extend our usage of the lenses we buy. In this tradition Olympus offers a 1.4 times conversion factor tele-converter. This is a HIGH GRADE accessory, with 6 elements and offering the same dust and drip proofing enjoyed by the high and super high grade Zuiko Digital lenses.

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ZD (EC) 2.0 Tele-converter

A development of the TC1.4, this incarnation offers 2X converter. If the OM system is a guide the 2X will be slightly lesser specified. Will the 2X converter be HIGH GRADE or STANDARD GRADE accessory? With 5? elements and (presumably) offering the same dust and drip proofing enjoyed by the high and super high grade Zuiko Digital lenses. This could be a cheaper option.

No more information at present.

E-System Extension tube 25mm

Designed to give greater macro capability the 25mm extension tube works primarily with the 50mm Macro ZD. However this tube increases the close focus capability of most ZD lenses and in particular the 50-200mm zoom.

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E-System OM to ZD lens mount adapter

Subject of extraordinary global debate this small adapter ring caused both Olympus and ZD users everywhere major headaches. Olympus could not decide if they should acknowledge they had made such an adapter; then they could not decide to manufacture it commercially; then if they should release it to 4/3rds users; to finally making the decision to give one free with each 4/3rds body sold. If you ewant to mount OMZ's on E-system bodies you'll need one!

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E-System Flash FL-20 mini unit

Coming primarily from the Camedia C-series range of compact machines the FL-20 is an all purpose but restricted small, lightweight and pocketable flash unit. Seamless integration with E-System bodies. Limited output, fixed head. Operates on 2 rechargeable NiMH AA's.

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E-System Flash FL-36 midi unit

The latest addition to the FL flash range. FL-36 designed alongside the E-300 to offer a more affordable fully integrated flash unit. With swivel and bounce it is very adaptable. Operates on 2 rechargeable NiMH AA's.

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E-System Flash FL-50 maxi unit

The flagship FL series flash unit. Full integration with E-system bodies. Total control. Increase/decrease intensity. Full tilt, swivel and bounce. Powerful. Operates on 4 rechargeable NiMH AA's.

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Sigma Corporate Logo

The Japanese lens company Sigma was an early signatory to the 4/3rd's standard. It has recently enhanced its range of DC lenses for the E-system and now deserves a dedicated section on this web site. A start has been made but please be patient.

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The new generation of high speed cards

SanDisk now offer their Extreme III high speed Compact Flash cards. Are they quick, is it hype? How does the E-1 respond to using this card? Here is some information starting with a look back at E-1 write times in 2004 using C/F of the day and now with the SD Extreme III 4GB card.

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Olympus dye sublimation printer

Here is some information on dye sublimation printing starting with an in-depth review of one Olympus DS printer the P-S100.

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Digital Reference Book

Someone at Olympus has been very busy combining the old digital FAQ reference book with a lot of technical images, some of E-System technology, into a new 168 page publication. This is quite new off the press (September 2006) and has only just appeared on the OlympusEuropa site in the last few weeks. Explaining both technology and techniques it is well worth a read whether you are new to digital photography or an old hand.

To download the new version (3.22mb) click here.

To download the old version (2.24mb) click here.