The first question I get when photographers find out I'm testing the new OM System PEN is: "How does it compare to the old PEN-F?" My answer: "It's a completely different camera." And as much as I love my PEN-F, I'll be carrying the new PEN.
It's lighter, with upgraded autofocus (Phase Detect vs. Contrast-Based), computational photography features like subject detection and Live ND, a kit lens that's only $100 in the bundle but compatible with focus stacking and close-up shooting, and built-in color profiles that I really like.
Before I dig any deeper, let's take a look at the basic specs.
- 20.4MP Micro Four Thirds Live MOS Sensor
- TruePic IX Image Processor
- 5-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization
- Up to 30 fps RAW & JPEG Burst Shooting
- 4K 24p Video & 1-120p in S&Q Modes
- 3" 1.04m-Dot Vari-Angle Touchscreen LCD
- 2.36m-Dot OLED Electronic Viewfinder
- 121-Point AF, AI-Based Subject Detection
- IPX1 Weather-Sealed Design
- M.Zuiko 14‑42mm f/3.5‑5.6 III Lens
I included the new zoom lens in the specs because, as I mentioned earlier, it's too good a bargain to pass up, even if you already have a catalog of MFT optics. When you buy the kit for $1,099, you're essentially getting the zoom for $100.
Top view of the PEN with the new 14-42mm III zoom. Photo provided by OM System.
It's weather-resistant, has excellent close-up capabilities, and it works with in-camera focus stacking. Previously, we had to use bulkier Pro lenses for the stacking feature. Now we don't. All of that for 100 bucks.
Anthurium andraeanum captured with the 14-42mm III zoom lens. Photo by Derrick Story.
I'll start with the things I like about the PEN, then list a few things I wish it had. But first, the good stuff.
What I like
It feels great in the hands. The front grip and the back thumb rest work wonderfully in tandem for one-handed shooting if you'd like, or for very comfortable all-day treks.
Back of the PEN with the thumb rest next to the CP button. Photo provided by OM System.
The buttons and dials are well-placed and operate cleanly with positive clicks and knurled rings. The fully articulated LCD allows for shooting at various angles, then folds nicely against the back of the body for protection.
The SD card slot is on the side. The electronic viewfinder is bright and colorful. There's a nifty color switch on the front that makes it easy to switch to the profile you want. More on that later.
Part of the joy of the PEN is that it only weighs 14 ounces (393 grams) and measures 5 x 2.9 x 1.7". If you put the 14-42mm EZ pancake zoom lens on the body, it's probably the smallest, full-featured camera in your arsenal. Yet, you get a ton of technology.
Advanced technology features- 121-point all cross-type On-chip Phase Detection AF
- The PEN series' first AI Subject Detection AF for people and animals (cats and dogs)
- Starry Sky AF
- A dust reduction system that removes dust from the image sensor, allowing lens changes without the need to worry about dust appearing in photographs
- AUTO mode, which automatically detects the scene being shot and captures images using the optimal settings
- 24 SCN modes with 6 themes which supports shooting more complex scenarios, such as starscape photography
- 16 types of Art Filters for expanded creative expression
- Pro Capture shooting (records up to 12 previous frames at a maximum of 30 fps beginning with the moment when the shutter button is fully pressed, RAW sequential shooting is compatible)
- Set custom mode name for easy recall (up to 12 alphanumeric characters)
- Easily record cinematic video in OM-Cinema1 or OM-Cinema2 picture modes specifically designed for videos
- Supports vertical video and S&Q (slow/quick motion)
There is a new battery, the BLS-7, that's a 1,285 mAh lithium-ion rechargeable. It provides approximately 410 shots on a full charge (based on CIPA testing). Some OM System photographers will be disappointed that they can't use any of their existing cells in the PEN, but OM System wanted a new battery that was compact and as powerful as possible.
A few complaints
There are a few nits, however. The SD card slot supports UHS-I, not UHS-II, which is surprising these days. Also, existing Olympus shooters won't be able to use their super-compact FL-LM3 flash with the PEN. It isn't compatible, which is a shame. I did test my Godox iT30 Pro, however, and it fit great in the hot shoe and the TTL functions worked well.
And finally, and this really is a nitpick, but the ON switch is multifunctional, also enabling video and S&Q, but I find myself in video mode sometimes when I first turn it on. I would prefer a single-function On/Off lever.
Color Profile Control
The Color Profile switch on the front of the PEN allows the photographer to set up a favorite look, then switch to it quickly. It looks simple, but actually is quite sophisticated. The saturation of 12 separate colors can be adjusted in 11 levels to achieve the ideal tones.
This can also be combined with Highlight & Shadow Control or shading effects for an expanded range of expression. OM System offers four preset types: Film Rich Color, for rich, deep tones; Film Vivid, for vivid saturation and rich colors; Film Soft Tone, which delivers light, soft tones; and Standard (Natural).
Color Profile 1 - Film Rich Color. Photo by Derrick Story
Four monochrome presets are also available and can also be customized, including Film B&W, which makes use of a film grain effect; Film IR, which emphasizes a red color filter effect that looks like infrared film; Film Low Contrast, which reduces the contrast for a soft impression; and Standard (Monotone).
In my testing, I preferred the Color 1 profile, which is labeled Film Rich Color. It was vibrant without being oversaturated. For B&W work, I like Mono 4, the standard monochrome profile.
The best way to use the switch in front is to figure out (or customize) the profile you want, switch to on, and set that profile. The PEN will remember your preferred preset the next time you use the switch.
Bottom Line
The OM System PEN is going to attract a lot of attention based on its looks. Quite honestly, it's adorable. But the camera is also wildly capable for on-the-go enthusiast photographers who want IBIS, color control, computational photography features, and the opportunity to change lenses.
And once they're tempted, the price isn't going to get in the way. Given the increases we've seen with other cameras recently released, the PEN with its stock zoom is a great value.
It's not the PEN-F. We will never see the likes of that camera again. It was a moment in time. But in this moment, today, I'm very happy to have the new PEN in my backpack.
