Olympus E1 Review

Olympus E-1 Manual - cs.olympus-ima...
Split Focusing Screen - www.amazon.com...
Olympus E-1 FAQs - olympuscanada....
My Jpeg Settings -
Saturation: Portrait
Contrast: -1
Sharpness: +3
Color Space: sRGB
Raw+Jpeg: On

[@flcrn]

How do you rate the E-1 against the E-300? (The E-300 doesn't seem to have the portrait mode, and thus a different SOOC image, aside from the different sensor resolution?!?)

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

I need to do more direct comparisons but my recollection is that the E-300 was not as strong with jpegs, but still produced great raw files. I feel like the E-1 has much superior white balance and a more subtle color rendition but this is a gut recollection that needs more verification through testing.

[@flcrn]

@@OneMonthTwoCameras Using both real-life and color chart test images, I managed to match the E-300 very closely to the image of the E-1 (with your E-1 JPEG settings): - exposure compensation: -0.5 relative to the E-1 [i.e. the E-300 exposes about a half stop brighter than the E-1]; set "EV step" in the wrench 1 menu to 1/2 EV - gradation: normal - saturation: normal/medium - contrast: -1 - sharpness +2 [I leave it at +1 and also dial down sharpness on the E-1 relative to your settings] - WB +/- (wrench menu 1): +2 Blue in all settings (including Auto) A major difference between the two camera is that, unlike the E-1, the E-300's sensor seems to have an AA/lowpass filter. As a result, the E-1's pictures look sharper on the 1:1 pixel level which somewhat offsets the E-300's sensor resolution advantage. The E-300's JPEGs are also slightly more saturated and warmer in the camera's default settings.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

@@flcrn wow this is so incredibly helpful!! Pinning your comment. Thanks so much for sharing.

[@unbroken1010]

@@flcrn what was the point of asking if you were going overload everyone with comparison and settings? 🤷😂 how is ÷2 dialing down sharpness? That would increase it

[@AriusNowak]

The E1 5 mpx sensor has a diameter of 13 µm for pixel and as a result 16x more surface area than this of 20 mpx sensor on modern m4/3 matrix. But this camera is hard to find and not cheap even so. So the best choise are the OLY E300-500. Their 8 mpx sensor has a diameter of 5.3 µm and as a result 4x more surface area than a 16 mpx sensor on such a matrix. The differences can be seen both in the autumn-winter weather at ISO 400-800 and in the summer when the clouds come and the colors are unchanged. In addition, the 4/3 Matrix achieves the resulting optical resolution of 314 (!) dpi (350 at m4/3) at 5 mpx and does not increase with the larger one. Therefore, if you do not make really very large photographs on paper, there is no need to use more pixels. That's why I abandoned the m4/3 in favor of these old, proven designs. (!) Canon 5D FF has only 72 dpi.

[@joshuacarnes5446]

That camera is an absolute beast. I carried one in western Baghdad in 2005. It got dropped, thrown, scratched, dented, and even slammed in an armored door, and it still works just fine 20 years later.

[@jigggro]

That's a fuckin amazing story. Thanks for sharing that very real world perspective on the camera.

[@khatfull]

I listened to this video on my way home from picking up a 50 mm f2 macro to go on my own E-1. I hear you, they're just such a pleasure to shoot.

[@GarrettLucasWV]

I'm glad I found this review today. My love affair with the E-1 has been going on longer than just about any other relationship I have. I bought one back in 2003 and have bought several more over the years and I currently have four of them. Through the last two decades, of digital cameras, I've had a D810, 5D, 5D MKII, 20D, 40D, 1D MKII, 1DX and (currently) Canon R-5 outside of the E-system. In the E-system, I've had multiple E-1s, an E-520, E-30, and two E-5s and I still have all my E cameras along with an OMD EM1 MKII. The only reason I list all the cameras is to say that even after all of those, my favorite has and always will be the E-1. The color, ergos and tonality is out of this world. In fact, even with all the cameras I have in the safe, it's the E-1 I've taken out every day this week. I'm like you, two of my absolute favorite lenses are the 14-35mm and the 50mm F2. I still use the 50mm F2 on the EM1 MKII for macro shots for my professional work in the studio. Another brilliant lens is the 150mm F2. It is phenomenal with the image quality and gives you a good bit of reach as well. Of the medium-level lenses, the 11-22 is my favorite for walk-around street photography and I currently have two of those. The 12-60mm is a great do-it-all lens and is slightly better than the 14-54mm MKII, but I still prefer the 11-22 as my walkaround lens since it let you tell the story with more context and the quality is even better than the 12-60mm. I'm just glad to see someone else enjoying the brilliance that is the E-1. Even owning E-5s and and an E-30 with image stabilization and higher MPs, I just can't turn loose of the E-1. I hope to see more content from you on it. It's good to know I'm not the only weirdo out there still rocking this 20 year old camera.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

This comment makes my heart sing. Truly appreciate you sharing and wow, what a fantastic collection you have! So happy to hear the E1 has maintained a solid place in your heart and hands.

[@moviebod]

Sorry to be dense, but what is an E-1? Is it Olympus or Canon? I can't find either for sale. Thanks.

[@GarrettLucasWV]

@@moviebod It's an Olympus camera that came out in 2003 and is long out of production, but you can find them on ebay from time to time.

[@jpprindle]

You're not the only weirdo. I'm an E-1 freak :)

[@david_allen1]

Well if you're a weirdo, then so am I! Though I didn't have the E-1 _(I have the E-500, E-510, E-30 and E-5)_ , I still have the lenses you mentioned and *love* the quality of the images they produce, especially the 50mm f/2, 150 f/2 and though you didn't mention it, I also love the images from the 50-200 f/2.8-3.5. I'm so glad I can still use these stunning lenses with the MMF-3 adapter on my new OM-1. They're heavy, but they are worth it. Thanks for the tip on the 11-22 -- although I have that lens, since I got the 7-14 f/4 I stopped using it so much -- maybe I should revisit it as it is NOT a heavy lens and if the image quality is there, it's worth it for street photography as you mentioned.

[@TheNarrowbandChannel]

It amazes me that these E1s still cost 150$. I remember getting one for that much new in a flash sale in 2007. I am glad I still hang on to both of mine. They served me quite well.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Glad you held onto them as well! I anticipate prices will just keep rising.

[@weisserth]

They're more like $300 now - just checked on Ebay.

[@fizzcochito]

@@weisserth try 400 now wtf

[@dayeah765caoni3]

@@fizzcochito it’s called inflation thanks to federal reserve,

[@jeffkim397]

One sold it for 430 a week ago

[@williamcurwen7428]

I think it very wise of you to invest your energies in exploring these early digital cameras from the noughties for their superlative colour. All the major Japanese film camera manufacturers at the time worked together very closely with colour scientists from Kodak, Philips, Agfa and Phase One to make that generation of digital sensor emulate film in order to woo their existing professional film camera users over to digital. When Kodak and Agfa went bust, it was all over for film and it led to today where each of the big companies have their own flavour of colour science - but - it no longer looks like film, not even close. I have two Canon 5D bodies, one stock, the other converted to infrared capture, and they simply amazing to work with. So, yes, keep up the good work!

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Thank you so much!!

[@cliffterpher]

Thank you so much for your wonderful review. Your enthusiasm and love for these slightly older (like myself!) cameras is infectious. I love the concept of M43 so hearing about OG 43 is amazing. Your recent pictures on IG have been a daily highlight although I appreciate that it's as much a case of the hands and eye behind the camera. I pray that you continue to post the occasional E1 photo 🙏. . Thanks again. FYI, I recently missed the chance to get a very beaten up but 100% working E1 here in Ireland. However, as we say here "what's for you, won't pass you" so patience will need to prevail. I meant to say that the small buffer and the enforced delay after 12 shots, or so, sounds like the perfect way to slow the pace and just enjoy the process of the moment. I see the new OM1 with "stupid frames per second" so you don't miss that shot! For me the experience is everything. It's like the time I went on a fishing trip about 10 years ago and the skipper had an electronic sounder to see the fish below. Hated it tbh. Compared with the most basic of fishing gear about 40 years ago as a young teen, it felt an empty, pointless and vacuous experience. (Please excuse my rambling analogy). BTW, I'm sure YT doesn't mind the word "hell" 🤔 - if you ever visited Ireland, you would hear a lot worse 🤫

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

I love that analogy and thank you so much for the thoughtful note. I know the E1 will come to you someday soon!

[@gregoriorodriguez7840]

Thank you. I have E-300, I went on a trip with her to Norway, and got some wonderful photos. Now I have a Lumix GX8 (Panasonic) M43, but i'm still in love with olympus. I also have a Stylus 1S (12Mp) and an old Camedia C5050 Zoom (5 Mp), from Olympus. Best regards.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

What a beautiful line up you have! Definitely been curious to try the Stylus 1. How do you like it?

[@martlet530]

Thanks to your video I am rediscovering my dust covered E1. Enjoying the channel - Many thanks. BTW - thanks to your tip I just purchased the 50 2.0. - Looking forward to any future videos you may care to make of this body.

[@amapolo1]

I had this camera, I own a couple of Fujifilm X cameras that I love, but I found the E-1 for 75 dollars in a pawn shop... What a great surprise, I didn't expect it was that good, I thought I was going to get some sort of compact camera results, this is a completely functional camera that still holds up against a lot of modern cameras under good light conditions

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Amazing right?

[@Wissperwind]

How do the colors compare to a Fuji X?

[@KarySchump]

I was just watching this again (I sometimes just play your videos for comfort while doing other things), and your tip about the release priority s was so helpful! It helped me with my E3!! :)

[@Riccardo_Mori]

I was eagerly waiting for this video. You and the E-1 both didn't disappoint. You have a great lens collection there, and I very much agree on the 25mm f/2.8. I love it on my E-300, and when I use it on my E-420, that really becomes one tiny DSLR. Enjoy your upcoming trip! Looking forward to seeing the results. Cheers! -Rick

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

You are too kind Rick. Thanks so much!

[@snappiness]

Love your enthusiasm for the camera and early four thirds in general, and the pics you've gotten from it. Great work and super informative vid for those looking to dive in! I bought an e300 a while back convinced I'll enjoy it perhaps even more than my old e420, which I already really liked. Excited to play more with it :)

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Oh that is awesome! Can’t wait to hear what you think of it. I still have my E420 thanks to you and like I said in the video I can’t thank you enough for that 50 mm hot tip. It has been such a 💎

[@snappiness]

@@OneMonthTwoCameras I'm so glad that worked out, what a fun find.

[@Blueish99]

This was a fascinating video and really opened my eyes to this camera. Thanks for going through the lenses too, as someone completely unfamiliar with Olympus it was super useful!

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

I’m so glad to hear!!

[@luzr6613]

Thanks to watching this... way back when you first uploaded.... i've been churning over finding an E-1. I have an E-5, which i love, an E-300, which i bought new in 2006 and will never part with, and an E-620 which i really won't miss when it sells... but yesterday an E-1 found me! Get this - it has 29 shutter actuations. Twenty nine. That's 118 thousand less than my E-5. Really enjoyed watching you going full squirrel over your E-1 again... really hoping it hooks me the same. All the best and thanks so muchly.

[@user-mp9xy4wm4g]

Отличный и позитивный обзор фотоаппарата ! У Olympus очень качественная оптика и снимать всегда приятно всех и всё ! Спасибо за обзор ! Удачи Вам !

[@beameup64]

I was into the early SLR's of Olympus around 2008-2014 due to the Kokak sensor. However, I obtained a 2.1mp C-2000z which produced some amazing large enlargements which I still have on display.

[@steve_heise]

Excellent video as always - your pictures always look so magical!

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Thank you so much! Love all your videos as well and can’t wait for the next one.

[@NanookFieryArcticSkyy]

I am remembering my E1 and need to start using it again. I found your video on a search on YT. Thank you.

[@jschoonj]

OK. So I've been curious about this camera for quite a while, and after seeing your review I knew it was time to pull the trigger. I only have some cheap zooms lying around right now, but boy is this camera a joy to work with! The tonality is just gorgeous and I'm barely having to touch the RAW files in C1. After only a few pictures the most striking thing so far, is just how good the auto white balance is. Just ridiculous how a 2003 camera manages to get this absolutely right seemingly every time. I can't say I've had the same experience with any camera so far. Including my E-M1 III ! I'm so happy to have joined the ranks of E-1 owners. Thanks for this amazing channel dedicated to these wonderful gems!

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Isn’t it incredible?! I still can’t believe how great this camera is

[@kmcsmart]

Another enthusiastic video. Thanks and have a great trip. Can’t wait to see what you shoot.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Thank you Karen!

[@TristanLegros]

Thanks to this video, I just bought one with a 25mm and a 40/150mm for 100€. I can't wait to go out and test it. I also bought it for my 10 year old daughter because she want to learn photography. I think it will be perfect for her in bright condition. The M8 is coming next for me ;) Thanks for your great, inspiring and fun content and videos.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@michaelculhane7227]

i love the idea of many different cameras. One day you take the Olympus. The next day......BOOM.....you roll with the Sigma; so many options, so much fun!

[@mechanicalslrlounge5138]

Just found your channel, wow! Some seriously great stuff. I just got the 50-200mm four thirds lens and use it adapted to my em1, absolutely amazing lens and is less than half the price of a modern equivalent. Here's hoping not too many people catch on to the value of the original four thirds system so we can keep shooting cheap. Cheers!

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Oh that lens is AMAZING! Nice one!

[@christophergrove4876]

🇨🇦/🇺🇸... In regards to the arguments back n forth about CCD vs CMOS, one thing to remember is that cameras have IMAGE PROCESSING computers in them. The images that come out of ANY camera are already HIGHLY processed... ALWAYS. Kodak created that CCD and then handed off the initial processing specs for camera companies to use. So I would argue that it has LESS to do with the sensor chip than it has with the in-camera processing. My Fujifilm S-5 Pro (God rest its soul!) has a similar "warm and fuzzy" reputation... but I can reproduce the images from all modern CMOS cameras using the specific, individual colour channel editing in LR. Thanks for your patience.

[@AliasMrHackenbacker]

Hello from a new subscriber based in the UK, after seeing a vlog by snappyness on the E300 and the images that the Kodak sensor produced I tracked down a E500 with the two kit lenses. I've only had the camera a couple of days but so far I'm really impressed. The main issue is trying to get the 25mm prime and macro as they are rare and expensive in the UK. Most of the dealer websites list used m43 lenses but not 4/3. The Olympus menus on these earlier cameras are so much easier to use than the later menus on the micro 3/4 cameras. Ivevalways been a big fan of Olympus going back to the original metal trip35 and then through the OM series of film cameras. I will also keep an eye open for any pro body which uses the Kodak sensor. Great channel as I really enjoy shooting with vintage cameras as well as my modern m43 stuff.

[@lensman5762]

I didn't have Olympus digital cametas, I do now, but what I had and still have is a Nikon D70 with a Sony CCD sensor. Film like rendition galore. I sometimes wonder if digital camera techno!ity has actually progressed that much beyond super powerful processors to do the crazy noise reduction and autofocus and video duties. Thank you.

[@nebukadnezzar3578]

Just stumbled upon your channel and loving it! Just delightful!

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Yay! Thank you!

[@StephenStrangways]

Cameras like the Leica M8 and Olympus 8 & 10 megapixel DSLRs used Kodak CCDs, but the sensors most closely related to the KAF-5101CE in the E-1 are some medium format sensors that have the exact same 6.8 micron pixel pitch, because they used the exact same manufacturing process, and the larger physical size meant more pixels, but the exact same pixels: the Kodak KAF-31600 (31 megapixels) and KAF-39000 (39 megapixels) sensors, used in certain Phase One, Hasselblad, and Sinar digital backs.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

I love your technical expertise and this makes a ton of sense to me. Had the pleasure of using a 2010 Hassy back that very much replicated the feel of the E-1 in color with naturally far more resolution.

[@StephenStrangways]

@@OneMonthTwoCameras the 31 megapixel Hasselblad back is the one with the exact same fabrication as the E-1 sensor, but there are other that still used Kodak CCD sensors that were related, but not identical. I have a feeling the E-1 will be the only version I'll get to use, and definitely the only one I'll ever own. It is the first and only camera I've ever purchased brand-new, not used, and I'll never part with mine.

[@sheldonspock5566]

@@StephenStrangways how's about the Leica S2's KAF-37500 ? That was 6 micron ballpark too, and KAF-3XXXX series too. Is it related? I believe it's a much younger sensor though. I'm more interested personnally in the "fat pixel" backs myself, even lower pitch

[@StephenStrangways]

@@sheldonspock5566 that's a much newer sensor, and Kodak called that line "TRUESENSE" with that later becoming the name of one of their spin-off companies. The KAF-37500 was related to the KAF-50100 which was used in a Hasselblad back. The E-1 sensor was from the "Blue Plus" line.

[@sheldonspock5566]

@@StephenStrangways great stuff. Before you made me aware of all this i was kinda conflating the E-1 with the "fat pixel" sensors (like P20, P25, etc) because I was thinking 5 megapixels was such a low pixel density. But i was failing to realize 5 MP on a 4/3 sensor isn't that low. It's actually the same density of the P45. So thanks for pointing that out.

[@dokugohikken8769]

I think the "Auto ISO" function in some of the Olympus cameras is not what we may think it is. I guess it works ONLY when you use a TTL flash. That is, when your object is far away from you, as you hit the limit of the GN/aperture combination, the ISO is boosted to let the flash to reach the object.

[@geriesandmann4485]

What a lovely story about (also) my very beloved E-1. I also have the E-500 and E-3 but the E-1 ticks all the right bells for me. Simple, sturdy, lovely handling and great batterylife. I also have the Omd em-1 (1) and Panasonic G85…so much to program, so much to love also, but the E-1 is so comfortable and a true friend. My Zuiko 50-200 is my favourite lens and I maybe plan to get the 50 mm 2.0. Thank you for your wonderful review🌞

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

I have seen such amazing images from that 50-200. Will definitely be keeping my eye out for one.

[@trumpdavid]

A lovely camera - I have my E-620 with a range of lenses - love it!

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

So glad to hear!

[@paulanderson24]

Love the enthusiasm for the older cameras. It’s nice having some gear that you will just never sell. Leica m8 for me is that and I think also the Olympus E500 could be too (thanks to your e300 review). Picked that up for £60 with a 40-150 just to experiment with telephoto as it’s something I never really do. Now I really want to get that 25mm pancake for it. Unfortunately they are hard to come by at a reasonable price here in the UK :(

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

That is such a killer deal you got. Love both those cameras and like you can’t imagine parting with either of them

[@herbertandrewdutton]

Olympus cameras always seem to render wonderful colors

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

They really do.

[@siyuq5620]

I found an Olympus 7-14mm f4 at a good price and have been using it for a while. It’s chunky and a little slow but absolutely amazing. Olympus always suffer from crop sensors. This lens brings the super wide angle back and is super fun to use!

[@realamericannegro977]

As soon as people say they love old Canon or Olympus I know their pics will be epic. I love the colors. It can compete with MD Mark 2 in terms of that

[@chrisbanks5137]

Great video! I was an Olympus DSLR shooter from the get go (E-1, E-500, E-3, E-5) and loved the brand - they just couldn't keep up with the Canon/Nikon/Sony DSLRs High ISO and FPS.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Sadly not but I hold out hope for OM Systems keeping the camera line alive.

[@megnatarnorth2879]

Excellent video, excellent camera.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Thank you!

[@JohnOpie]

Love the 50 f2: what a lens! The 12-60 is also a dream...you should find one, perfect travel lens...never had the earlier 4/3, but still have my E520 and E30...

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Definitely hoping to add the 12-60 and 50-200 to my collection one day!

[@pwood5733]

Bought mine new back in the day and its still my every day camera. Its never missed a beat in all these years and nothing has broken or fallen off apart from i wore out one strap

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Amazing

[@AlpacoFilms]

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this camera! One of my favorites of ALL TIME! The split prism VF is FANTASTIC I swapped the one out of my 5D and it REALLY HELPS! I actually HAVE the 11-22 that I still use on my E-M1.2 and now OM-1. If you'd like to borrow the lens I'll sent it to you to play with!

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

You are so sweet! Thank you for the offer and I may reach out and take you up on it :) Isn’t this camera incredible? It’s wild how well it holds up.

[@AlpacoFilms]

@@OneMonthTwoCameras it’s still so amazing!

[@hopeless4ever]

All of those Kodak CCD sensors belonged to the same family, except for E-400. That camera had an interline transfer CCD sensor, instead of the full frame transfer sensor. While all of the cameras differ in their color renderings, the E-400 is most different, but it has the highest resolution and yields the sharpest images. In some early versions of the firmware, it even had live view! I have them all (E-1, E-300, E-500, and E-400). The camera you are using, the E-1, has the best and purest color rendering in this camera family. In particular, there is little noise in the shadows and it is free of any tints as well. You get pleasing color from the brightest parts to the darkest ones. Higher ISOs or exposure pushes will increase noise, but it will not be offensive the way it is in most cameras - including later Olympus cameras, and it is easy to clean up with today's software.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

So cool thank you for sharing!!

[@a.lawrence4969]

The E1 is a great camera even today. The simple fact is if your work is mostly on-line, 5 megapixels is plenty. The E-1 is weather sealed I believe. Its a solid well made camera . If you are considering buying one ask about the shutter because some pros used this camera.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

A good note. Love mine to bits.

[@paulleonardsmith7861]

If you haven't tried it yet , my favourite camera is the Olympus c5050 . Amazing little machine. I used it from 2003 -2007. I now have 4 as you can pick up for £20 . The 1.8 lens is incredible.

[@GarrettLucasWV]

I don't know if it's the voice or my sentimental attachment to this camera, but I have run this video over and over. It's my ASMR for when I am going to sleep.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Wow that is high praise. Glad to hear it's soothing :)

[@tealeg]

I had an E1, sadly it got stolen back in 2007. Still miss that camera. BTW, sigma used to make 4/3 mount lenses too (they were the same APS lenses they made for everyone else). I had a 55-200 and a 30mm f1.4 from them, along with the Zuiko 14-54, and a zuiko 35mm Macro (cheaper than the 50 you have). I still count the images I made on that camera as amongst the best I ever took - the colours are a key part of that. Never shot a better camera for manual control either.

[@kenblair2538]

Wow, someone, still using an E-1. That was my first , dSLR, after shooting weddings with medium format for many years. And, I still own the camera, and all the accessories. I can print great 11x14 and 13x19 enlargements , with my printer, no issues. It was in use , until I came across a E-30 (KEH) , 2 years ago. Thought it was time for an upgrade, price was $160, E condition. When I received the camera , it looked new. I have one of the wide angle zooms 9-18mm. Now, I just photograph landscapes and other personnel projects. Great review.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

That's amazing! I almost bought the E-30 as well! How do you like it?

[@kenblair2538]

@@OneMonthTwoCameras Well, 12mp is great. All my lenses work with it. As you mentioned with the E1, this has IS. And I couldn't pass on the price. I'm old school, (coming from film era ), use basic settings, ISO, f stop, shutter and white balance. By the time I figure out all those settings, I'll be dead and gone. I do shoot in raw.

[@eppietimisela7118]

Another nice content. I also have love for older DSLR cameras and just today I bought the Nikon D60 and the D90. Lets see if its still worth in 2022.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Ooo I remember the D90 so well! Let me know how it goes!

[@sheldonspock5566]

LOL i hadn't noticed the WB button until you mentioned it 😂 It's def one of the things that I'm loving about this camera, taking a cue from Nikon with all the dedicated buttons. Another thing that has def impressed me is that ISO 400 is really not too shabby! Surprisingly noise-free and fine grain looking. I'm guessing it's due to the somewhat low pixel-per-photosite count. I haven't compared yet but I'm thinking it's possibly better than my Canon 5D. I can confirm that the viewfinder is pretty delightful for such a small sensor. Yes it's 100% coverage and much smaller than an equivalent full frame or APS pro body but it's pretty great nonetheless! The same weekend i got my mint E-1 i got the 25mm pancake, the 50mm F2 and the Leica zoom with IS, all really cheap! So far the 50mm it's mostly permanently attached to it, I agree it's a wonderful lens, although with some hard to remove CA. The Leica 25mm 1.4 looks very desirable but as you know it gets pricey. And that SWD F2 lens you got is a serious piece of kit! What I'm really eyeballing is the long zooms in high grade, those seem like amazing lenses and crazy compact thanks to the system being Four Thirds. Thanks for the tip on the autofocus setting, I'm gonna try that right away. Focusing is my main gripe with this otherwise outstanding camera, and it's ruined me quite a lot of shots. I'm looking forward for your experience with the split prism screen. I'm afraid it might throw metering off as well as AF, so I thank you for taking one for the team :P ;-) I do have to point out - and I know you know this Alexis, but a lot of your subscribers don't - that it's not the sensor that makes the colors but the CFA and the maker's color science implementation. Olympus was probably up there with Canon's early digital, and I suspect Minolta's too. I'd love to try the Minolta 7D, have you? Also, kids, remember it's not the camera, it's the photographer! ;-)

[@sheldonspock5566]

Oh and did I say the viewfinder is 0.96x magnification? How baller is that?? :D

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

So killer!! And glad you discovered the WB button :P That's a fun party trick.

[@kimc5750]

Wonderful review! It is a fantastic camera. I agree; the 50mm F/2 macro is the absolute freeking bomb! I have two in case anything happens. It is going for crazy money on the bay right now though. The 14-35 is worth the money. I have never used the 7-14; I can say the 11-22 is a lovely performer. Even the 35mm macro is a great lens. Thanks for another great review.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

So happy to see I'm not alone in my love for this set up.

[@nickhaswell6011]

35mm f3.5 macro is right up there with 50mm f2 for me both are legends But considering 35mm f3.5 macro is standard lens line up and the 50mm f2 high grade line up, 50 having better build and f2 over f3.5 but in image quality they are both incredible 50 is legendary but so should 35 especially in terms of value in standard lens line up terms and price its KILLER I have incredible breathtaking shots with both through e3 and colours everything stellar And 35 has 1:1 macro over 50 having 1:2 macro So where the 50 beats it in build and f2 the 35 beats it in higher magnification true macro But yes 35 and 50 are stellar lenses without question

[@ulfjonsson2122]

Great video and images

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@dummatube]

You should track down a late 90’s Kodak DCS 660 with the Nikon F5 body and the brilliant 6MP Kodak CCD sensor. It cost us $48,000 at the time but we made over $250,000 with it for product photography and portraits (the best ever skin tones to this day)!!! I really love your knowledgeable and fun videos - thanks! David Myers, Digital Masters Australasia.

[@kimc5750]

PS. The styling of the E-1 almost reminds me of a giant C-8080, I love that digicam as well despite its Sony sensor.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Totally!

[@dokugohikken8769]

I would say, probably the most important set up for this camera is to set the Noise Reduction to OFF.

[@KnutSandaker]

Hi, great video! I own the E-1, E-400 and an M8 :) The E-1 is one of the best handling cameras ever made. My favorite combo is the E-1 / Nikon 24mm f/2.8 AI-S. Need to use them more..

[@TheLixistar]

Do you like the e1 better than e400 ? And why ?

[@KnutSandaker]

@@TheLixistarI like the handling of the E-1 better than the E-400, it's a more ergonomic and robust feeling camera. I have relative large hands. Sometimes I pick the light and small E-400. I like the output of the E-400 a little bit better.

[@andrewspence6929]

i bought an olympus om lens adapter for my e 300 400 500 cameras and it works great you can also buy a pentax k mount adapter too .Now to get an E1 thanks for your great you tube channel

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

That's fantastic! I assure you the E1 will not disappoint.

[@nickhaswell6011]

35 f3.5 macro through my olympus e3 is so good, you wont believe what this lens is producing Incredible lens

[@Riccardo_Mori]

Oh, speaking of wide-angle zooms for the Four Thirds system: there is also an Olympus Zuiko Digital ED 9-18mm ƒ4.0-5.6, not as high-grade as the 7-14mm ƒ4.0 or the 11-22mm ƒ2.8-3.5, but worth mentioning anyway. All these lenses still command a surprisingly high price on the used market, I've found. //Rick

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

I've seen that lens out there and contemplated it! As you say, surprising how these lenses seem to still go for a relatively high price.

[@Riccardo_Mori]

@@OneMonthTwoCameras Yesterday I thought of you, because a kind soul gave me their Olympus E-1 for just the price of shipping! I can confirm everything you've talked about in this video. The camera is such a joy to hold and the controls are so well designed and placed that I familiarised with everything so quickly. I went for a photo walk with the 25mm ƒ2.8 and had a blast! Cheers! //Rick

[@nickhaswell6011]

Olympus zuiko 35mm f3.5 macro with 1:1 magnification true macro this is a hidden gem that lens impresses the hell out of me with every shot People will assume that it being in standard lens line up it wont be stellar this lens is joint or right behind in a very close second to 50mm f2 Both these lenses take breathtaking pictures the 35 performance in standard lens line up terms is crazy good bargain terms off the charts its that good And although standard lens line up its build is pretty good in my opinion for a standard lens

[@simon.revill]

Really enjoyed this, I’ve always been fond too of the picture character and colours from my E-400. It’s a shame 4/3 was abandoned so quickly. I was always frustrated by the slowness of the kit lens, but couldn’t afford (and too stingy to buy the more expensive lenses). Why didn’t they bring out f1.8 primes?! That said, I found the 14-42mm lens to be very capable in terms of image quality and more recently the 40-150mm kit lens. In 2006, the E-400 was such a good offering compared to more expensive alternatives from other manufacturers…. quality, features, ergonomics, usability, size, product aesthetics etc. It is one of the nicest looking DSLRs (which I think matters!).

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

I also with original 4/3 stuck around, or better yet that the adopted m43 but kept that Kodak sensor….

[@oh_ilya]

I've been waiting for this review so much! Thanks for the great review! Now I choose between E1/E500/E400 (I wrote to you in IG). All of them has a Kodak sensors, as you know. But all of them have a different models of sensors. It would be interesting to compare IQ. I like the e400 more because the sensor model exactly the same like in the digital back for Leica R8/9 (msrp $4000). And e400 has a larger display. Sounds like sweet combo in everyday using. But I like a build quality like a tank of E1 and shutter sound too. In my country (Russia) E1 selling for around $100 (body), e300/400/500 around $50-80 for a kit combo (sometimes with 2 glasses).

[@LesHalles]

I'm looking to buy one of these Olympus with a kodak sensor, do you recommend getting an e400 instead of an e300? thanks

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

This is awesome to hear. I just got my ear 400 and haven’t really been able to test it yet so very eager to see how all these model stack up. I love the experience of the E1 but I also love the smaller form factor of the E-400 and can’t wait to run around with it a bit more

[@flcrn]

@@OneMonthTwoCameras I just got the E-400, too, as it is an easy and dirt-cheap camera to buy second-hand over here in Europe. But find it incredibly plasticky and cheaply built, even worse than the cheapest Canon DSLRs, and with the most uncomfortable - even irritating - grip I've ever experienced on a camera; because, for incomprehensible reasons, the camera strap hooks have been placed on the front side of the grip, cutting directly into one's fingers...

[@marsn4811]

Lovely review. Glad you discuss your enjoyments with the camera rather than focusing on the specs. I've also been using this camera with the Sigma 30mm F1.4 with the E1. A very heavy camera with this glass added. The pancake is great as it reduces this weight you have too carry around. Try using an Industar 50mm f3.5 (pancake with hood) or the Pentax SMC range e.g. 50mm f1.7, or any Takumars and you'll sure to have a bigger smile on your face when you see the colours! Coming from SLRs ..I found the E1 easy to handle but rather "chunky" in handling/hold. Bought some Panasonic's DMC L1 (chunky but easier to hold) to now complement my 4/3 lenses with the E1 now. Appreciate your passion............your shots as well.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Thank you so much for the comment. I share your love of the LC1 and will definitely look into adapting some of that Pentax glass!

[@binomania]

Hi from Italy. I also love E-1 i own two specimens with zuiko 12-60 and 50-200.Compliments for this interesting review

[@pushingfilm]

Wow, hard to believe 2003 is that far away now! Great camera 😁

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Love this camera to bits. Wild that we’re still talking about it 20 years on.

[@apilgrim7]

@@OneMonthTwoCameras Thank you for the review. I just got my E1 and the 14-35mm out to experience it again. One thing though, I had to use the old Olympus Viewer 2 to process the raw files. It's the only Olympus raw processor that has special saturation and sharpening processing parameters specifically to E-1.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

@@apilgrim7 That is a great callout. I didn't even try Olympus Studio and I don't even know about Olympus Viewer 2. I'd love to see any shots you may have!

[@apilgrim7]

@@OneMonthTwoCameras Here's the link to the pics on my Google drive. drive.google.com/drive/folders/1egxvluIqdYoQ8rHf0Ocs0F3FnxXfV_ne?usp=sharing

[@apilgrim7]

I just took them a few hours ago and processed the raw files in Olympus Viewer 2 v1.43. I don't think you can download that version anymore. I was looking on my Desktop for that installation software version but cannot find it anymore. Maybe someone can point us to where we can download OV2 v1.43 from the internet ? Thanks

[@michaelgibbons3196]

Glad I found you,love that camera.Mike

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

It’s stellar. Glad to have you here!

[@gamingwithstand6886]

Another camera you might like is the Panasonic Lumix GH2. Some people don't like the jpegs but some people say the jpegs look like Kodak film.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Ooo I’ll check it out!

[@singstadmusic4027]

You should absolutely get the Zuiko 7-14 f4! It may be slow, but 4he results are really great.

[@curiousloli]

Yeah! When I bought 50mm I instantly fall in love with it )

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

💯

[@martingreenberg870]

I was cleaning out a closet and was surprised to see I still have an Olympus E-1. Have the 11-22 and kit lens 14-54 lens. In addition, I still have a 256 mb card! I don’t have a card reader though. Tried opening the door on the right side of the body to load the CF card with no joy. Any ideas? I’m so glad you hyperlinked the owner’s manual. It has been so long since I’ve used this body. I also had the E-300 at one time. I would be happy to finding my E-8080. There was a lovely camera. Will look for a new battery and charger. Your channel is a blast from the past. Mask On Nurse Marty

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Great camera line up there! Hmm is the door jammed on the side?

[@AtomicPixel]

Ahhhh! You’re starting to make me want all sorts of old cameras. The electronic hoarder in my is running wild. Lol You enabler, you. Thanks for your vids btw. So fun. :)

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Ha. So sorry! But if it's any consolation, I am sure my hoarding habits are worse :P

[@AtomicPixel]

@@OneMonthTwoCameras haha! Because if you, I’m keeping an eye out for ccd cameras. What would you say are your top 3 ccd cams? Apologies if you have a vid on it. If so, please link!

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

@@AtomicPixel oh man. That’s an impossible question like asking me to choose my favorite children 😂 Leica M8 and Olympus E1 definitely. And then a million others in the third slot….

[@AtomicPixel]

@@OneMonthTwoCameras thank you for the 2/3rds answer. It was sufficient. :)

[@Seele2015au]

This was also Mac Taylor's camera in "CSI: NY" in the early episodes.

[@erice220]

I bought an E1 today with only 906 clicks. I am so happy with it!

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Phenomenal!

[@erice220]

​@@OneMonthTwoCameras It is. I paid 165 euros for it.

[@carltanner9065]

I've printed 5MP files to 8x10 with no problems. I'd even go as far as 11x14 and I'd still feel confident in the IQ of the print. With prints it really depends on your viewing distance as to how it will print. Hell, in the day they first produced cameras like the E-1, they were printing billboard sized pics from 5MP files!!!! You wouldn't go right up to the pic and look at it, but from 20-30 feet away, or further, they looked fine. Some of my best pics were taken with a little 5MP camera (a Canon PowerShot A460). A camera like the E-1 or similar would make a great camera for a beginner. Even makes a great camera for those of us a little longer in the tooth :) Especially for posting to social media, since FB, IG and other platforms murder your files, anyway, when it comes to resolution. 5MP is more than enough!!. But, like with anything, you work within the limitations of what you've got. For photo albums, piccie books, etc, an E-1 or similar camera will do a great job. You don't need an A7IV, Z9 or GFX100.

[@kenblair2538]

Yep, 13x19 at 200dpi , look great.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Such a great point!

[@russellgoodwin1652]

Hi Ali, is that you singing at the beginning of the video? And the music? Loved the lyrics and the delivery, and the inventiveness of the whole piece. That E-1 is a beast, especially with the pro lens, but it looks impeccably built. Thanks for sharing. Loved your obvious enthusiasm for these old gems of a camera.

[@JuanBuhler]

Very interesting! I didn't know about those sensors being the same generation/type as the one in the M8. Definitely has the look!

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Wild right?!

[@mylngrnt]

I love your camera collection 🥰 I just bought the Pentax Q7 after watching your video about it yesterday 😅

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Oh the cutest camera! I hope you enjoy it!

[@terrygoyan]

I'm glad to find your channel! Wonderful review of an interesting camera. I wish it had more lens options as it looks like the build quality is fantastic and the CCD sensor is magical. The white balance button on the front of the camera is brilliant. All the older camera bodies I've used had kind of crummy white balance and adjusting it required digging through the menus. I know I'm here late but I subscribed. P.S. Robin Wong also described the 50 f/2 lens as delicious! Is it possible to set the camera up for rear button focus? I always set my bodies up that way. I decouples focus from shutter release which makes it easier to focus and recompose!

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Thank you Terry and yes you can back button focus! I also shoot all my cameras that way so it’s a joy.

[@sophietucker1255]

I have an E-330 and love it. The color rendition is very filmic in nature and makes for wonderful images of nature scenes and portraits too.

[@kayelaine]

i own the e-500, apparently its very similar to your e1. I got a great deal on ebay with the camera the 2 kit lens you showed off in this video.. Im very new to photography but im learning how to compose and frame my shots :) im very happy with the jpegs, even with some slight editing in the google photos app im very happy with what i can achieve for 100 bucks. The only thing i dont like as you said is that ISO wise you cant really push pass 400, kinda sucks as you cant do any concert or night sports photography with this camera. Gonna travel to Maine with my e500 and im hoping these colors are gonna look beautiful with the new england summer lighting

[@ddhulett]

If you can find a Olympus FL-14, it works great as a compact flash on the E1. Also you may still be able to find the Olympus 9-18 mm lens which is good wide angle 4/3 lens.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Solid tips.

[@UmbertoAmante]

I have gone all in on MFT (from Sony FYI). I like the FT lenses because of the larger size of the lenses due to my big dumb hands....LOL. The FT lenses are not ideal for video as you lose autofocus but manual focus works. Also, if you half press while in video the FT lens will focus for you. Have you tried the 12-60mm F2.8-4? Your URL inks are dead.

[@Jason45G]

My first Olympus camera was the E-500. I absolutely loved the colors SOOC with that camera. I still like the colors I get but honestly I think the E-5 was the last camera I had where the colors just seemed great.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Oh that is great to hear! I am quite eager to try the E-5 so I'll have to keep an eye out.

[@david_allen1]

The E-500 was my first DSLR as well and I loved the images it captured. In July 2006 a cousin got married with no photographer, so unasked I took photos of their outdoor wedding (at golden hour!) with the E-500 and the 50-200mm f/2.8-3.5 HG lens _(a _*_WONDERFUL_*_ lens!!)_ and the photos were *beautiful* -- I was struck by the color rendition and the bokeh. I gifted 8x10 prints to the couple, who loved them. Then like many I fell into the upgrade craze and got the E-510, then the E-30 and finally the E-5 and many of the HG and SHG lenses including the fantastic 14-35 f/2 _(thanks for the release priority tip!)_ , 35-100 f/2 the 7-14 f/4, and the superb 50 f/2 portrait/macro lens. I was crestfallen when Olympus abandoned four-thirds even though I understood why they did so. But I kept all my four-thirds equipment! However over the years I found that the weight of the system was why I slowly stopped taking them out. So last year I got the OM-1 and I'm really glad I did as it reenvigorated my love of photography -- such a capable camera and so small and light. I can't stop taking pics! It's really good to know that there are photographers who kept their four-thirds gear and still enjoy it. Thanks for the wonderful video (never had the E-1, but the E-500 & E-5 give me a taste of what it might have been like). Sorry for the long post. I get excited about this topic!

[@aquienpuedainteresar4188]

I do believe sigma use to make lenses for this mount essentially doubling it. I had the e410 and was saving for a sigma 150mm macro, effectively a super lightweight 300mm f2

[@SuperZarkosis]

I would really love to plug the Sigma 30mm f1.4, it works perfectly with the E-1 and its honestly becoming my favourite general purpose lens at this point though its a tad slower with focusing. I assume the leica 25mm is better image quality wise, but it also costs 5x the price. I also love the SDW 12-60 and 50-200, they are significantly sharper and faster focusing than the 14-54 and basically never miss focus. I do really want the 14-35 now though.... p.s. Also, I found the secret to the E-3 is to put white balance adjustment as A+3 and G-1 and the images look like 95% of the way to the E-1, and I think the issue i have found with the E3 was the white balance in comparison to the E1 was always "perfect" rather than the more film-like kodak colours from the E1. In most cases it looks nearly as good and for wildlife ive found the faster focusing and stabilization to be very useful. Both are great cameras but i still love my e1 more...

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

A total oversight on my part to have not even mentioned all the great lenses that I DON'T have. And amazing tips for the E-3. I continue to prowl for an E-5 to add to, but not replace, my E-1 in the Olympus collection much like yourself.

[@sheldonspock5566]

wait, there's a Sigma 30mm 1.4 lens for this? I wasn't aware of this!

[@SuperZarkosis]

@@sheldonspock5566 yes, its pretty great wide open for portraits, and is tack sharp at f1.6 it is pretty slow auto focus, around the same speed as the 50mm f2 macro lens.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

@@sheldonspock5566 Indeed there is!

[@jharrelphoto]

love your videos. I just ordered one off eBay last week that was in mint condition. shipping is taking longer than usual so I hope that it didn't get lost lol. I also got the xz1 as well. and have been walking around with that the past few days

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Oh wow congrats!!! Two amazing cameras :)

[@herrb.aush.6775]

Hi , thx for your wonderful review. I bought a used E1 in a very good condition in 2016. My original E3 with the great 12-60 f 2.8-4 was stolen a few years before, so i thought, the E1 with a 12-45 could be a a good substitute. I really was surprised a about the great quality of the shots and i totally agree to your statements about the wonderful look of the Kodak sensor. "Filmish" somehow. One additional point could maybe be interesting to you: I have found out, that if you have batteries in the camera and don't use the cam for a few months, the batteries loose power! Of course it could be, that this is an effect of my particular E1. My E500 uses the same batteries (BLM1) but here i never noticed a similiar effect. So i think: Obviously the E1 needs a bit battery power, even if it is not switched on. Greetings from Germany

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

That's so interesting! I hadn't noticed that but it sort of makes sense. Glad you were able to pick up an E1 of your own, though sorry to hear about the loss of your E3. I know a lot of people love that camera. Hopefully I'll give that one a go someday as well.

[@nickhaswell6011]

@@OneMonthTwoCameras I have e3 this takes awesome pics with great colours

[@jonnymooshoo]

I just picked up an e500 yesterday and just bought an E-1 of ebay today. 😅 I shoot Sony for work and have a Fuji x100v but I'm looking forward to adding the Olympus cameras to the collection... What's next? Seems I have a case of GAS

[@ethanchang7366]

I love your videos, and you are the reason why i got into digicams. since started watching your video, i already got myself a Canon powershot G1 and G6, and my Olympus E-1 is on its way as we speak. I got the 50mm F2 and 35mm to go with it. I know that the 14-35mm F2 is one of the best lens of its time, im just wondering, in today's money, how much do you think is the reasonable price for that lens now? (I know it is expensive back in the day, and still very expensive on eBay, $800-$1500.) Thank you . please keep up the good work.

[@Cassia_c]

you got some gorgeous insta photos out of it!

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

TY!

[@RoadWolf]

Capture One doesn't detect my Olympus E-1 DSLR. The Olympus program works fine with the original Olympus Studio Program. However, it was written for Windows XP. The program is too old for Windows 11. I feel like Olympus sold us out. I am a great fan of the E-1 DSLR. It's awesome. I am looking to reconnect the old camera for some studio work ASAP. Is there a Cap One fix for it? Thanking you in advance.

[@lim9571]

Hi, I've just bought an E1 with the 55-200 for £138. The person didn't have a CF card so it is untested. I am hoping the gamble will pay off. Really looking forward to trying the 50-200 too as the 14-54 2.8-3.5 is really good.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Wow!! That's a fantastic deal. Best of luck!!

[@Gliebert49]

I just discovered your reviews and like them a lot. There are a lot of "upgraded" versions of the E300-500, the 410, the 520, etc. Did the change the sensors beyond the ones you talk about? Thanks

[@Rnder72]

Nice review. One of my favourite cameras of all time, so much to like. The 25mm f2.8 is a great city lens (small, light), but boy oh boy is the 50mm f2.0 ever sweet, I think it is my favourite of lenses I have used. The E-1 ergonomics just work for me, I like the little touch of rear control wheel being at an angle so that it is at the arc of the thumb, so cool. I did not know about the split prism focus screen, I saw one on ebay. is that where you are getting yours?

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Thank you Rick! I linked the focusing screen in the notes for the video. Let me know if you have trouble finding it! Really excited to see how it works

[@duncanmacleod8066]

Wow 😮😊

[@realamericannegro977]

12:23 a 25mm did that? Nice. Doesnt seem distorted either. Is this a crop sensor?

[@forewarnedfilm]

Thank you for a great video on this camera - you captured some wonderful moments with it. I must admit I lusted after the E-1 when I first saw it in the photo magazines back in 2003 - it seemed so revolutionary. Now, it looks like I can finally afford to indulge my curiosity! I had a question about the lenses like the 14-54mm in manual focus - what is it like? I see on the lens barrel there is a window for distance markings - can you manually focus to specific distances in the window, or is it like most mft lenses that are focus by wire - and the amount of turning the focus ring does not accurately match the distance covered?

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

I hope you pick one up! The lenses are very sadly fly by wire. One of the biggest frustrations I have but autofocus is actually surprisingly usable so I just stick with it. Not great for zone focus though.

[@bikeshdangal2345]

Hi mam! I watch all your videos and it’s very informative. I takes pictures just for hobby. Could you please suggest me any old dslr, which is good for just photography?

[@hopeless4ever]

I'm surprised that you also don't have the Olympus 12-60mm F2.8-4.0! That is a cracking lens!

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

I have heard it is brilliant! I would love to try it some day.

[@beameup64]

Interesting that no one mentions the E-330 which added "live view".

[@calebcourteau]

I just discovered your channel a few days ago. I think it’s really cool that you’re exploring all these classic digital cameras, and sharing your thoughts and opinions (and pictures!) with us. In particular, I’m impressed with your investment in the abandoned OG four thirds system. That’s quite a lens collection! The E-1 has been on my radar. Recently, at The Online Photographer, it was cited by numerous readers as the best handling camera they’ve ever used.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

Oh that is so interesting to hear! I never expected to get so deep into the antiquated 4/3 system but I fell down the rabbit hole and no longer have any desire to resurface; I love it down here :)