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Give and Get Geeky: Holiday Guide

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7. Olympus E-PL1 Micro Four-Thirds Camera

Olympus E-PL1 Olympus E-PL1


For gung-ho family photographers who’ve outgrown the point-and-shoot, or enthusiasts who want to leave the heavy DSLR at home, Olympus’ E-PL1 Micro Four Thirds camera makes for an affordable and accessible way to get nearly DSLR quality shots, as well as HD video at 30 frames per second (which save as MPEG files).

The camera is about the size and shape of a high-end point-and-shoot with a substantial zoom lens, but this lens detaches. The kit lens is a 14-42mm version, but like with a DSLR, other lenses are available, ranging from 7-200mm. Even if you stick with the kit lens, you’ll be able to get big, bright images due to the 12 megapixel LiveMOS sensor and image processor. Because there’s no viewfinder and no internal mirror (traditional elements to a DSLR camera) the E-PL1 stays small and light (it is made of polycarbonate plastic instead of metal, which also helps it feel light). The camera features a pop-up flash, and a dedicated 720p video button on the back.

Those who want the camera to make most choices can turn the main dial to iAuto mode, while more experienced DSLR users can use other modes that allow for varying degrees of control: aperture priority, manual, shutter priority, and art filters. All users will need to use their hands to physically manipulate the zoom of the lens, which feels great to even the most inexperienced photographer.

Fancy photographers will be glad to see the “hot shoe” port atop the camera—this allows for use with fancier flashes and accessories.The E-PL1 uses SD/SDHC memory cards, and comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. But for family photographers, the most appealing aspect of the E-PL1 will be the ease with which close to pro-quality images are obtained, at a price below any DSLR and a weight and easy grip to match.

 

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TheRockMonsi 11/29/2010 4:38 AM
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First non-spammer to post!!!!!

Anyway, for me I'd gladly take the ladies over all those things combined; those ladies are, indeed, very pretty. :)

nesto1000 11/29/2010 6:49 AM
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What do I gotta give to get the chick?? ;)

masop 11/29/2010 7:20 PM
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nesto1000 :
What do I gotta give to get the chick??



Yeah, I'd take any of those girls over the tech, but particularly the blonde in the red santa clause outfit. She can sit on my lap anytime. :-)

bill gates is your daddy 11/30/2010 5:08 PM
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Not to be nitpicky but the one in the green needs to lay off the spray tanning. It's a little uneven in spots.

Anonymous 11/30/2010 7:15 PM
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Your battery life and charge times are way off according to the ar drone web page. Run time is listed as 12 minutes.

cookoy 12/01/2010 4:31 PM
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after the first page, forgot why i'm reading this article. those are pretty gals. cheers to all!

eyemaster 12/01/2010 7:43 PM
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No love for green? I'll take the girl in the green suit! Yum.