Olympus E-500 DSLR digital camera
Significantly smaller than predecessors has the E-500 got what it takes to woo?
- Reviewer
- Doug Harman
- Review Date
- 14 March 2006
- Manufacturer
- Olympus
- Price as reviewed
- £600
- Latest price
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Reader score
8/10
Reader review
User: ArtMAN (profile) 
Location:
Date Posted: 18 December 2006
Review: Offered the E500 to my youngest son mainly because it's a great value and also its a camera that, with so many usefull features, one can grow with in terms of discovering photography. I am a semi-pro photographer and a Nikonist since the analogue era - I've started in 1972 - but also have some Olympus analoques SLR's ( OM1 ) and on digitals from Sony's ( DSC80 and F 717 )to Canon ( S80). The E500 is mainly a camera well suited for beginners and also can help most advanced users. Handling is not fantastic - a little unbalanced and somewhat "tight" ( had the E400 in my hands and find it much more balanced, although smaller - and some of the most important functions - WB, ISO,metering adjustments - should be available in my opinion with "hard-buttons" rather through a menu. Viewfinder is really small and not very bright - 4/3 imposition - and the 3 area autofocus a bit on the short side, although it focuses quickly and accurate. However and in terms of image quality overall, it behaves very well - not stellar - and if used with care in terms of exposure and with good lenses, - the kit ones are not bad but.... - this can be a nice charm to work with. All in all, a decent camera from a great manufacturer
Pros: Value for money. Packed with features. Interesting 4/3 system, with stellar Pro lenses. Good construction, good image quality. A camera that offers a lot.
Cons: Unbalanced design. Not as sturdy as I would expect. Lack of a vertical grip as an acessory.
Score: 8/10
Rating:
15 people have rated this review helpful
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