Olympus Introduces E-420 DSLR, Available in May

Olympus E-420 DSLR Camera

Olympus today unveiled its 10-megapixel E-420 DSLR camera, updating the E-410 with a slightly larger 2.7-inch LCD screen plus a few other enhancements (On-Screen Autofocus, Face Detection, Shadow Adjustment Technology and Perfect Shot Preview). But the most notable move by Olympus here is pairing the E-420 with the Zuiko Digital 25mm f2.8 pancake lens, making it the tiniest digital SLR around. This lens has a fixed focal length equivalent to 50mm, a prime lens effectively. Its pancake design makes the E-410 comfortable enough to carry in a coat pocket.

Olympus aims the E-420 towards both seasoned photographers and beginners who are new to DSLR shooting. It offers advanced users all the functionalities of a full-fledged DSLR while also featuring easy to use controls for the beginner. As a matter of fact, it features both Beginner and Advanced information screens.

The E-420 will be sold body only for $500; $600 for the body with the 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko kit lens and $700 with the 25mm pancake lens.

It will start shipping in May, just about the same time when its formidable rival, the Sony Alpha A300 will also begin to ship.

[Site: Olympus Europa]

Published by Chris Malinao

Chris teaches Lightroom as workflow software to photography students at the FPPF, Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation. He also teaches smartphone photography.