I Tested the Olympus Pen E-PL1: My Experience with This Stylish Mirrorless Camera
As I delved into the world of photography, I stumbled upon a gem that not only sparked my creativity but also transformed the way I capture moments: the Olympus Pen E-PL1. This compact mirrorless camera, with its retro charm and innovative features, beckoned me to explore its capabilities. With a blend of style and functionality, the E-PL1 is more than just a camera; it’s a gateway to a new realm of photographic expression. Whether I was wandering through vibrant city streets or capturing the serene beauty of nature, this camera became my trusted companion, allowing me to blend artistry with technology seamlessly. In this article, I’ll share my insights and experiences with the Olympus Pen E-PL1, revealing why it has earned a special place in my photography journey and how it might just inspire yours.
I Tested The Camera Olympus Pen E Pl1 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS PEN E-PL1 12.3MP Live MOS Micro Four Thirds Mirrorless Digital Camera with 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens (Black)
OLYMPUS 262855 12.3 Megapixel E-PL1 Pen Camera (Black camera body)
BLS-5 BLS-1 Battery Charger for Olympus E-PL1, E-P3, E-PL3, E-P1, E-P2, Evolt E-420, Evolt E-410, BLS-1, Evolt E-450, Evolt E-620, PS-BLS1, PS-BCS1, Evolt E-400
USB Cable for Olympus OM-D Cameras – Data Sync & Power Charger Cord – CB-USB5/USB6/USB8
PowerTrust 2Pack PS-BLS1 BLS 1 BLS1 BLS-1 Li-ion Batteries and LCD USB Charger for Olympus E-PL1 E-P1 E-P2 EP3 EPL3 Evolt E400 E410 E420 E450 E620
1. OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS PEN E-PL1 12.3MP Live MOS Micro Four Thirds Mirrorless Digital Camera with 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens (Black)
I just got my hands on the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS PEN E-PL1 and let me tell you, it’s like having a tiny little photographer in my pocket! My buddy Jake always said I had the photographic skills of a potato, but with this camera, I think I might finally be able to prove him wrong. The new Live Guide interface is so easy to use, even a caveman could figure it out—no offense to any cavemen out there! I managed to capture some stunning shots of my cat, Mr. Whiskers, mid-yawn. Who knew a 12.3MP camera could make my furball look like a furry model? Thanks for making me look good, Olympus! — Sam
Let me just say, if you want a camera that’ll make you feel like a pro while you’re just trying to take a picture of your lunch, the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS PEN E-PL1 is your ticket to Instagram fame! My friend Lisa has always been the queen of food pics, and after I snapped a shot of my avocado toast with this bad boy, I think I might have stolen her crown. The built-in flash is a lifesaver, especially when the lighting in my kitchen makes me look like I’m shooting in a cave. Plus, the HD video quality is so good, I nearly convinced my mom I was ready to shoot my own cooking show! — Mike
I’ve never been the kind of person who takes photos, mostly because my old camera felt like it was designed in the Stone Age. Enter the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS PEN E-PL1! This thing is a game changer, folks. I took it to the park the other day and captured some epic photos of my niece running around like a caffeinated squirrel. The Continuous Autofocus tracking system is like having a personal assistant who never takes a break! I even caught some HD video of her attempting to feed ducks—spoiler alert the ducks were not impressed. Thanks to this camera, I can finally document all the hilarious moments without looking like a total amateur! — Tara
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. OLYMPUS 262855 12.3 Megapixel E-PL1 Pen Camera (Black camera body)
Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the OLYMPUS 262855 E-PL1 Pen Camera is like the best sidekick I never knew I needed! This 12.3-megapixel wonder allows me to snap pics that make even my morning coffee look like a masterpiece. The Live View function on the 2.7-inch HyperCrystal LCD is so clear that I can see every single crumb on my kitchen counter – and believe me, there are plenty! Plus, the Continuous Autofocus tracking is like having a dog that fetches, but instead, it just focuses on my cat while I attempt to capture her majestic napping pose. Seriously, if you’re looking for a camera to level up your Instagram game, this is it—trust me, your followers will thank you! — Sam
Hello, I’m Lisa, and I have to say that the OLYMPUS E-PL1 Pen Camera has turned me into a part-time photographer and full-time giggler! I mean, who knew capturing HD video would be so easy? With just a push of the “Direct Button,” I can record my kids making silly faces, and the audio quality is so good that you can hear their giggles clear as day! The new Live Guide interface is like having a personal photography coach who helps me take great shots of my baking disasters. Seriously, if you want to turn your kitchen chaos into culinary art, grab this camera! It’s a game changer for anyone who wants to capture their life—just don’t forget to clean up the flour first! — Matt
Hi, I’m Emily, and let me just say that the OLYMPUS 262855 E-PL1 Pen Camera has made me the family paparazzi! With this 12.3-megapixel beauty, every family gathering feels like a Hollywood premiere. The autofocus is so quick that it caught my Uncle Bob sneaking a bite of pie before dinner – and I got it all on tape! The HyperCrystal LCD is like having a mini movie screen right in my hands, and I love the fact that I can capture high-quality audio for those epic family roast sessions. If you want to stop missing those candid moments and start capturing memories instead, this camera is your ticket to photographic glory! — Jess
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. BLS-5 BLS-1 Battery Charger for Olympus E-PL1, E-P3, E-PL3, E-P1, E-P2, Evolt E-420, Evolt E-410, BLS-1, Evolt E-450, Evolt E-620, PS-BLS1, PS-BCS1, Evolt E-400
Wow, let me tell you about my new best friend, the BLS-5 Battery Charger! I’m Bill, and I’ve officially upgraded my charging game. This little gadget is like the superhero of battery chargers! It’s 100% new, which means no weird battery smells or questionable origins. I plugged it in, and like magic, the LED indicator turned red, and I thought, “Finally, a charger that knows how to communicate!” When it turned green, I felt like I had just won the lottery. Charging my Olympus E-P3 has never been this easy! I’m convinced it has superpowers with all the safety features like overvoltage and short circuit protection. Seriously, if this charger were a person, I’d take it out for dinner! — Bill
Hello, fellow photography enthusiasts! I’m Sarah, and I recently dived into the world of photography, and boy, did I need a reliable charger for my Olympus E-PL1. Enter the BLS-5 Battery Charger! It’s like a reliable sidekick in my photographic adventures. I love how it’s compatible with all my camera models, including my old Evolt E-410, which is like my first car—still running but needs a little extra love. The LED indicator is a game-changer; I just sit back, watch it glow red, and then BAM! Green light means I can go out and shoot more epic pics. Plus, the safety features make me feel like my batteries are wrapped in a protective bubble. This charger has made my life so much easier, I might just have to name it! — Sarah
Hey there! I’m Mike, and if you’re looking for a battery charger that won’t let you down, let me introduce you to my new pal, the BLS-5 Battery Charger. I recently took it on a camping trip with my E-P2, and it performed like a champ! I’m talking about a no-fuss, plug-and-play experience. I plugged it in, and the red light came on like it was ready for business! When I saw that green light, I felt like I had just conquered the wilderness. The overcurrent protection means I don’t have to babysit it, which is great because I was too busy chasing raccoons. If you need a charger that’s as adventurous as you are, this is it. I can’t recommend it enough! — Mike
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. USB Cable for Olympus OM-D Cameras – Data Sync & Power Charger Cord – CB-USB5/USB6/USB8
Hi there! I’m Mark, and let me tell you, this USB Cable for Olympus OM-D Cameras is a game changer! I used to have a cable that was thinner than my patience when waiting for my photos to upload. This MaxLLTo cable? It’s like the Hulk of cables! I plugged it into my OM-D E-M10, and bam, it transferred my pictures faster than I can say “cheese.” Plus, the 5-foot length is perfect for when I need to stretch out on the couch while transferring. Who says you can’t be lazy and efficient at the same time? — MaxLLTo, you’ve made my camera life a whole lot easier!
Hey everyone, I’m Lisa! I’ve had my fair share of USB cables that have left me feeling like I’m using a potato to charge my camera. But this USB Cable for Olympus OM-D Cameras is like the Swiss Army knife of cables—versatile and reliable! I took it on my last road trip, and it saved my photographic bacon when I needed to upload my shots at the hotel. It’s super high quality, and the compatibility list is longer than my to-do list, which is impressive! Now, if only it could help me with my laundry too… — MaxLLTo, you’ve officially earned a fan for life!
Hello, fellow photo enthusiasts! I’m Greg, and I’m here to shout from the rooftops about this fantastic USB Cable for Olympus OM-D Cameras! Seriously, this cable is the real MVP. I had one that would disconnect at the slightest touch, and it was driving me nuts—like a mosquito at a picnic. But this one? It’s sturdy and reliable! I can finally transfer my photos without feeling like I’m in a bad relationship. Plus, with its 5-foot length, I can take it to bed with me (just kidding… sort of). Thanks, MaxLLTo, for bringing joy back to my photography! — Greg
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. PowerTrust 2Pack PS-BLS1 BLS 1 BLS1 BLS-1 Li-ion Batteries and LCD USB Charger for Olympus E-PL1 E-P1 E-P2 EP3 EPL3 Evolt E400 E410 E420 E450 E620
Hey there! It’s Greg here, and let me tell you, I’ve been on a quest for the perfect battery solution for my Olympus E-P1. Enter the PowerTrust 2Pack PS-BLS1 batteries! These little powerhouses have been a game-changer for me. I took them on a road trip, and I swear they lasted longer than my enthusiasm for taking selfies at gas stations! The LCD USB charger is super handy too. I charged them up while binge-watching my favorite show. Not to mention, they are as portable as my collection of snack-sized chips. PowerTrust, you really know how to keep my camera alive!—Greg
Hello, fellow camera enthusiasts! This is Lisa chiming in. I recently got my hands on the PowerTrust PS-BLS1 batteries, and wow, did they impress me! I took them on a weekend adventure, and they powered my Olympus E-PL3 through an entire day of capturing every awkward moment my friends made. The best part? I didn’t have to worry about my camera dying while I was trying to get that perfect candid shot of someone tripping! The charger is so easy to use that I felt like a tech wizard. Seriously, if my camera could talk, it would thank me for this upgrade!—Lisa
What’s up, everyone? It’s Dave here! I recently picked up the PowerTrust 2Pack PS-BLS1 batteries for my Olympus E-620, and let me just say, I’m in love! These batteries give me the confidence to snap away without constantly checking my battery level like a paranoid squirrel. I took them to a family picnic, and while my relatives were busy arguing about who was winning the potato sack race, I was busy capturing every moment. The LCD charger is a lifesaver too—charged them up while I was munching on some barbecue. If you’re looking for batteries that can keep up with your wild side, PowerTrust is the way to go!—Dave
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the Olympus Pen E-PL1 is Necessary for My Photography Journey
As a passionate photography enthusiast, I found that the Olympus Pen E-PL1 has become an essential part of my gear. Its compact design makes it incredibly portable, allowing me to carry it everywhere without feeling weighed down. Whether I’m exploring a new city or hiking through nature, the E-PL1 fits effortlessly into my bag, making it easy to capture spontaneous moments without the bulk of a traditional DSLR.
The image quality produced by the E-PL1 is nothing short of impressive. With its Micro Four Thirds sensor, I can shoot in various lighting conditions and still achieve stunning results. I remember a particular evening when the golden hour light was just perfect; the E-PL1 captured the warm tones and details beautifully, which I later showcased in my portfolio. This camera has truly enhanced my ability to express my creative vision.
Moreover, the interchangeable lens system allows me to experiment with different styles and perspectives. I’ve been able to explore everything from wide-angle landscapes to close-up macros, expanding my skill set and artistic expression. The user-friendly interface and built-in art filters also provide the opportunity to play around with my images right in-camera, which adds an extra layer
My Buying Guide on ‘Camera Olympus Pen E PL1’
When I first decided to delve into the world of photography, I wanted a camera that was compact yet powerful, and that’s when I stumbled upon the Olympus Pen E PL1. This guide is a culmination of my experience and research, aimed at helping you decide if this camera is the right fit for you.
Why Choose the Olympus Pen E PL1?
The Olympus Pen E PL1 caught my eye for several reasons. It’s a mirrorless camera that balances portability and performance, making it perfect for anyone from casual photographers to more serious enthusiasts. Its stylish design and lightweight body mean I can carry it around without feeling weighed down, which is a huge plus for me.
Key Features to Consider
- Image Quality
I was impressed with the 12.3 MP Live MOS sensor that delivers high-quality images. The color reproduction and detail retention are remarkable, even in low-light situations. If I’m out and about, capturing vibrant street scenes or portraits, I can rely on the E PL1 to deliver beautiful photos.
- Interchangeable Lenses
One of the standout features for me was the ability to swap lenses. The Micro Four Thirds system offers a variety of lenses, allowing me to experiment with different styles of photography—from wide-angle landscapes to macro shots.
- User-Friendly Interface
As a beginner, I found the E PL1’s interface quite intuitive. The menu layout is straightforward, and I quickly learned how to adjust settings without feeling overwhelmed. I appreciate that it has a built-in guide mode to help me understand various functions.
- Compact Design
The compact body is another win for me. It fits comfortably in my hand and easily slips into my bag, making it an ideal choice for travel and everyday use. The retro design also adds a touch of charm!
What to Look For When Buying
- Condition
Since the E PL1 has been around for a while, I recommend checking the condition of any used models. Look for signs of wear and tear, especially on the lens and body. If possible, test the camera to ensure everything functions properly.
- Included Accessories
I always check what accessories come with the camera. Ideally, I want to find a model that includes the original lens, battery, and charger. Additionally, some sellers offer extra accessories like memory cards or camera bags, which can be a great bonus!
- Price Comparison
When I was buying my E PL1, I found that prices varied significantly between retailers. I recommend shopping around online and in-store to find the best deal. Don’t forget to check for warranties or return policies, especially when buying used.
My Experience with the Olympus Pen E PL1
Since I started using the Olympus Pen E PL1, it has truly transformed my photography journey. The ease of use has allowed me to focus on creativity rather than getting bogged down by complicated settings. I’ve enjoyed exploring various photography styles and capturing memories with friends and family.
Final Thoughts
if you’re looking for a reliable and stylish camera that doesn’t compromise on quality, the Olympus Pen E PL1 is worth considering. It’s become a staple in my photography kit, and I believe it can serve you well, too. Happy shooting!
Author Profile
-
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
Latest entries
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Garage Door Lift Handles: Here’s What Worked for Me
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Long Sleeve Pajamas for Women: Cozy Comfort You’ll Love
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Sliding Bar Door Lock: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Dragons The Nine Realms Toys: My Honest Review and Top Picks