Olympus E-520 review
Features: Page 2
LCD Display
Live view and captured images are displayed on a 2.7in LCD screen, featuring the second generation of Olympus’s HyperCrystal technology. With a 230,000-pixel resolution, this is the same as that of the models these cameras replace, though the physical size of the screens now puts them in line with many other entry-level DSLRs such as the Sony A200 and Pentax K200D. An impressive viewing angle of 176° off centre is claimed for each model, as is 100% coverage of the scene.
Metering
Olympus has stuck with the same metering system seen in the predecessors; a 49-zone multi-pattern system offering evaluative, centre-weighted and spot options. In addition, the shadow and highlight spot metering options first seen on the OM series of Olympus’s film bodies are also available, allowing for more accurate metering in particularly dark or light conditions.
Dynamic Range Controls
The E-520 features Auto and PASM exposure options as well as 20 scene modes and sensitivity-based image stabilisation. Alongside this Olympus has added Shadow Adjustment Technology, which is claimed to optimise the dynamic range, capturing highlight and shadow details more effectively. This can be set to Auto, with Normal, High Key and Low Key options available.
There are eight white balance presets, plus an Auto mode and a manual ‘shoot a white object for reference’ setting. Colour temperature may also be adjusted over the Kelvin scale, which ranges from 2000K to 14000K.
ISO Range
Sensitivity may be adjusted in full-stop increments over a range of ISO 100-1600. This is augmented by both a long-exposure noise reduction option and a high-ISO noise filter, with the latter’s intensity adjustable over three levels.
Have your say!
Latest comments
October 01 14:49
Stephen Brasure
With the release of the Olympus E-620, the E-520 is now available at some very low prices (at least in the United States). It's hard to find a better deal than the E-520 lens kit, which is a great camera for those purchasing their first digital SLR. Having purchased a dual lens kit for my first SLR, I'm more than pleased with the camera's performance but you do have to be aware of it's limitations, as with any camera. One advantage of the Olympus E-520 is the quality of the JPEG images straight from the camera. They are usually quite excellent, and those who prefer to avoid a lot of post processing should compare JPEG quality of the 520 with images from other entry level SLR cameras. The quality of Olypus Zuiko lenses available for the E-520 is generally considered to be excellent and competitive with comparable offerings from Canon and Nikon. And again, for the average consumer, buying into the 4/3 Olympus system isn't any more or less advantageous than purchasing other systems. That being said, if the purchaser plans to upgrade to a full sensor body, than sticking with Canon or NIkon or other system may be preferable. With the availability of quality lenses, getting started with a 520 system can be a very cost effective means to enter SLR photography. And, there is always the option of upgrading to a newer body i.e. E-620 as prices come down or newer bodies are released. Bottom line..........the Olympus E-520 is a very competent and cost effective camera system for most consumers.
May 26 16:35
Peter Bower
Quite frankly, most photographers would not notice the limitations of the 520, because they would never put the camera to extremes of use. 99% will just shoot on auto with perhaps a few minor adjustments. On the positive side, I have not seen better landscapes than with the Olympus 510/520. Only the Sony 850 equals it but look at the price difference. Olympus kit lenses are supurb for the money and must be class leaders. Fit an Olympus 14 - 54 F 2.8 zoom and you will get pro results that are hard to beat. I still prefer the 510 over the newer 620 because for me the pop art is of very low priority in taking factual pictures. I want real life reproduction and nothing more. Peter