Sleek and compact
The Olympus PEN E-PM1 has a relatively compact, attractive, and well-built metal body. My only real gripe with it is the lack of any sort of grip on the front.
Flash
Like the NEX models, the E-PM1 doesn't have a built-in flash and instead bundles a collapsible unit that slips into a proprietary connector and hot shoe.
Interface
Like a midrange point-and-shoot, the E-PM1 doesn't have a mode dial; this screen is where you select your shooting mode, and includes the usual set of manual, semimanual, and automatic modes, plus a dedicated movie and Art Filters mode. You don't need to be in the Art Filters mode to access them--you can get to them in the Picture Mode setting, but can't adjust the options there.
Shooting interface
The functional shooting display looks like most Olympus cameras. Pressing the OK button brings up the most frequently needed shooting settings for adjustment, and there's a thumb-operated movie record button.
Controls
The main dial gives direct access to exposure compensation, flash, burst mode and autofocus-point selection. The dial itself operates precisely and comfortably enough.
Not a lot on top
The only controls on top are the shutter button and on/off button.
Collapsible lens
Olympus pioneered the manually collapsible lens system, incorporated into the kit lens. While it's nice that it makes a more compact package that way, the "Lens is locked. Please extend the lens" messages on startup are starting to get old.
More Galleries
My Favorite Shots From the Galaxy S24 Ultra's Camera
My Favorite Shots From the Galaxy S24 Ultra's Camera
20 Photos
Honor's Magic V2 Foldable Is Lighter Than Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra
Honor's Magic V2 Foldable Is Lighter Than Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra
10 Photos
The Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus Looks Sweet in Aluminum
The Samsung Galaxy S24 and S24 Plus Looks Sweet in Aluminum
23 Photos
Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra Now Has a Titanium Design
Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra Now Has a Titanium Design
23 Photos
I Took 600+ Photos With the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Look at My Favorites
I Took 600+ Photos With the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max. Look at My Favorites
34 Photos
17 Hidden iOS 17 Features You Should Definitely Know About
17 Hidden iOS 17 Features You Should Definitely Know About
18 Photos
AI or Not AI: Can You Spot the Real Photos?