Olympus PEN E-P7 - [The FIRST camera from OMDS!]

[@johnfallows3822]

Just can't understand the lack of an EVF. There are so many weather conditions when the rear screen is difficult to use.

[@GrenlandUnderVann]

This camera is only for Japan.

[@Smaug1]

Lack of EVF = more compact, less expensive camera, and maybe their target market won't miss it?

[@MarcioK]

@@Smaug1 but the camera is MORE expensive than the E-M10 IV, with the same internals and without evf...

[@TL-xw6fh]

The Ricoh GR III is selling like hot cakes and is also plastic bodied and lacks an EVF. This is a direct competitor to the Ricoh and many of the Fuji X-series cameras too.

[@jamespkuzman]

Agreed. No EVF is one of very few dealbreakers for me when buying any camera. Another is plastic. Keeping a close eye out for a cherry used PEN-F in the meantime, ideally a silver one.

[@elleporidae]

The E-P7 is obviously for the entry-level market. And while this specific camera might not be for me, the fact that it exists and will be released is at least a hopeful sign for us still waiting on a Pen F II (or a premium/advanced rangefinder-style body from Olympus). I do hope that this alarming trend of doing plastic bodies doesn't translate to it 🙈 I'm pretty sure most of us wouldn't mind the extra weight for the solid build. The meager "weight savings" certainly isn't worth it if we are to read the several freak accidents of E-M5 III bottom plates cracking from merely being attached to tripods/clamps. I'm still clinging to my E-M5 II because of it. That thing is built like a tank. Fujifilm has been very tempting, if not for the lack of IBIS. Still waiting from Olympus though, albeit impatiently.

[@POVPHOTOGUY]

In my opinion the E-P7 is not entry level. It is more designer camera. Because it has benefits like 5axis stab, 20MP what is in the high-end line of OM-D cameras.

[@GoA7250]

So you are saying the 7 is a step down from the 5?

[@JoshuaFernandez11]

I love my E-P5. It is a awesome daily camera that is easy to pick up because its so portable. I was excited when I had the EV-4 on it at first, but I slowly turned around and left it off most days. It just didn't make it pocketable anymore and I could be fine without it, especially after getting used to shooting with the screen tilted and from the hip. I don't think an EVF is necessary if you are open to new shooting styles, as there is not only 1 way to take a picture. This camera actually matches my shooting style with the PEN series.

[@ForsgardPeter]

It just that it is very hard to see anything form the LCD in bright light. Also the hold is more firm if you have the camera on your eye. LCD is also useful sometimes. I think cameras should have both.

[@daan8052]

I have sun shields on my cameras without evf, it helps with reflections . But yes I prefer when they have evf

[@siesta-fiesta]

Would you consider upgrading to this from your E-P5?

[@shenZ007]

This product is “well” designed, without the EVF . For those who need an EVF you already have a compact E-M5 Miii. This E-P7 will be a perfect companion, a second camera for Olympus E-M1 Mark 2/Mark 3 and E-M5 Mark 3 users

[@tonysanchez888]

If this had an EVF, I would buy it in a hearbeat. The lack of EVF is a total showstopper for me. I was stupid to sell my Pen-F, which I had bought for cheap a few years ago.

[@weisserth]

Pen F bodies are collector items now, the prices for clean copies are up to new retail prices. I bought a mint black copy from KEH a while back at a decent price. Prices have gone up since. KEH has some new by the way :)

[@orangorill]

Had high hopes for this camera, it looks great, but it basically repeats all the mistakes with the E-M5.3. Plastic body, micro-USB, cropped 4k. Then it adds a few of its own, removing the EVF and the mic port. I supposed Panasonic might surprise us with an amazing successor to the GX9, but as of right now the Fuji X-E4 looks more and more like the only choice if you're looking for a compact, affordable, well built and full featured RF style camera. If only it had IBIS too.

[@joeltunnah]

What about the Sony a6600?

[@orangorill]

@@joeltunnah I'm sure it's a good camera, but it doesn't look as nice, and it's considerably more expensive. I suppose prices vary from place to place, but over here the Sony is 60% more expensive than the Fuji. That's a bit much for just adding IBIS and weather sealing, in my opinion. If I'm paying that much, I'd honestly just add a bit more and pick up an A7C.

[@praetorian3571]

Fuji X-E4 for its size and weight is a killer camera and extremely good looking and stylish. I would pick X-E4 over E-P7!!

[@ryankwan1934]

@@praetorian3571 The Fuji automatically wins by virtue of having an EVF.

[@juanalvarado7794]

Yup and the xe3 is much cheaper too. The xe4 is even better. But I don’t see why anyone would get this pen over the Fuji at his point…😒 not to say this pen is all plastic..

[@matthiasglanznig9733]

It's good to see them release a new MFT camera! Just not sure there's enough reason to get it, if you already have a comparable model. Especially since there are so many great deals for slightly older Olympus models these days. It would take more to really pique my interest in getting something new. And yeah, the lack of EVF is a deal-breaker for me too when it comes to photography.

[@c.augustin]

Crucial feature? EVF. I don't understand why they canceled the option for the VF-4 (this was already done by Olympus itself, this is not really an "OMDS" camera). Well, you addressed that already. I don't think that this model will make any difference for OM-D cameras (I don't see a target group, but this might be only me).

[@TL-xw6fh]

For all those pining for a EVF, let me remind you that the plastic fantastic Richoh GR III also does not have a EVF and yet it sells like hot cakes. Ditto many Fuji cameras too.

[@cristibaluta]

I bought it exactly for this reason, i don't need the evf and it takes space in my bike handlebar bag, backpack, shoulder bag.

[@valdiskrebs566]

This is a street photography camera-with the great Mono/Color dial! 👍 Big difference on the street if you raise a camera to your eye(EVF), or use the flip-up screen to be more discrete. People react much differently if you are looking at them with a camera in front of your face. Flip up is screen better for the street than Pen-F’s fully articulating screen which is good for other situations. This is a carry-everywhere street/event camera that will use the smaller Olympus lenses you already have.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Good point about the use of LCD.

[@valdiskrebs566]

@@ForsgardPeter Thanks! Might be a good video to explore the Mono/Color dial on this camera - a great feature, as you mentioned, that most people seem to be overlooking.

[@FrancoisMcinnes]

Yes, I miss my flip screen from m10. Perfect for street. I hate to pop out the articulated screen from m5, m1 and penf

[@cristibaluta]

I bought it for street and i'll shoot like i do with my phone by looking at the screen or sometimes not even that.

[@eworldRick]

I totally agree. Still will be fine with the 17mm F 1.2 Olympus lens at the waist level with a decent camera strap.

[@DanniPortillo]

I really love the design of this camera is so gorgeous

[@GB0711]

I like it. I have preferred smaller cameras for some years and am well used to using the rear screen so don't require an EVF. This ticks all the boxes for me. I'll be buying one a little later in the year. [Have to wait for my birthday!]

[@itsmealex9290]

Thank you for this Video. OMD goes still the wrong way. This camera is old technology built in a new body. You getting nothing essential more than a PEN-F had already years ago. If they use old tech. why they don’t put an EM5M3 in a Body of a PEN-F II? Furthermore nobody needs a flash, but the most people wants an EVF like you mentioned, too.

[@robertfrank9168]

Nothing new? It has the TruePic VIII image processor as in the E-M1III.

[@itsmealex9290]

@@robertfrank9168 that is only a number in the specs😉 What benefit do you expect?

[@TheObscurelord]

I guess they think most on Japan marketshare, Pen-like cameras are stronger there. But maybe they will drop a proper Pen or OMD flaghips soon. Technically this is not "more" than a Pen F, it is less (less dials, no EVF, no fully articulated screen). Sure, new processor on a camera means better auto focus and speed. But i guess this model is just for "dropping out" something while they are working on something more professional/high range oriented...

[@GrenlandUnderVann]

@@robertfrank9168 TruePic VIII is basically just a new name for the same old LSI.

[@richardgorski23]

Olympus way. Always old in slightly change body. No wonder they went bankrupt.

[@MrHasherd]

Interesting, thanks Peter. I totally agree on the essential need for an evf. Cheers.

[@sstansm7f]

Thanks Peter! In my 6 year experience with E-PL2/3 cameras is that for amateur and travelling photography EVF does not matter much. In bright light LCD allows to frame the picture and control where AF is focused. I just more concentrated on the subject looking at it straight - not through EVF or LCD. I used 14-42 kit lens always open and did not care about DoF because it is large enough at open aperture. So that user experience with Pen cameras in its simplified version is excellent because the user doesn't have many choices.

[@2Old4Toys]

Thank heavens they kept the “Olympus” brand name! I care a lot about that. Perhaps more than I should.

[@joeltunnah]

Yes, more than you should. This camera is a real clunker.

[@cristibaluta]

Yes this is the best thing about this camera, the OMS logo is so off...

[@MichaelGerrard]

I love the look of this model, I was so hopeful... But it is just a ranger finder style E-M10 IV. Why not use the guts of the E-M5 III for this?

[@brianlaunchbury4491]

Guts of EM 5.3 would give us a pen-f, but it should have a new sensor and truepic ix to give it a decent life

[@MichaelGerrard]

​@@brianlaunchbury4491 I am not sure, I see the PEN F as a more unique model. This is the E-P7, the successor to the PEN E-P5. That was basically the E-M5 mark I in a rangefinder body without EVF.

[@shenZ007]

That would be very unwise. This camera is meant to be a second camera for the Olympus user. If you want the guts of E-M5 III then use the E-M5 III ...

[@faisalee]

I had The awesome PenF used it for few years and then sold it eventually! Miss it every single day. This looks like a beauty and I might get one:)

[@asterix908]

This looks like a beautiful camera much like the e-pl10. For people who are willing to ditch the EVF, for a smaller body. These are great options. I'm the target audience for this camera, since I own the e-pl10 and I absolutely love this camera. The pictures are great and the whole thing is so small, much smaller than even the e-m10 IV, almost coat pocketable. Its the perfect travel camera.

[@mikelovett2677]

Crucial? An EVF.

[@leadwhite1249]

It looks like a decent upgrade to me as an e-pl9 owner. I am very sensitive to weight, and by the spec sheet this camera appears to be 50g lighter, and 100G (25%) lighter than a pen-f. Better sensor, better stabilization and USB charging. The lack of a viewfinder really doesn't bother me, but I do wish it had phase detection. I'd much rather have this than a Panasonic g100.

[@mrammm377]

I love the size and look! I wish it had phase detect auto focus, would have been perfect for vlogging with its size and weight

[@marekq6756]

They could make two versions of this camera. E-P7 and E-P7v with PEN-F style viewfinder in place of flash.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Good idea, I would get the E-P7v if it was reality.

[@sussar]

In that case, why not just buy a Pen-F instead? Better IBIS as well.

[@weisserth]

@@ForsgardPeter That would be the Pen F Mark II. I'd LOVE to see a Pen F Mark 2, with a brass and/or titanium based body for higher quality. Better EVF. Even if the sensor and processor is the same as in the E-M1 Mark III, I'd still buy it.

[@thegreatvanziniphotos5976]

I have just the vf 2's for my pen lp's. They've already been lifesavers in the short time ive had them.

[@neilcousineau4956]

Thanks for the review. I’ve never owned an EP camera I have the original EPL 1 and XZ 1 both of which can be used with EVF. For me a EVF built in or attachment is a must. The XZ1 although old is a great camera, customizable, flip screen, EVF. and very VERY pocketable.

[@Teeum5]

I stay with my Pen-F though I liked the look of the E-P7 at first glance. And I love having an in build flash - but the more often I use an EVF... so, the E-P7 is not made for me. Great, that this camera has a tilting screen.

[@GertDHoll]

I've had enough of Olympus, after years of being a fanboy I discovered today that this new E-P7 comes with micro usb instead of usb-c!

[@ruuddirks5565]

A year ago people speculated that OMD would drop the PEN-line. Now they introduce an underwhelming PEN as their first try. I'm skeptical about the future.

[@joeltunnah]

And why they haven’t tried to compete with the Fuji X100 is beyond me. One bad decision after another.

[@juanalvarado7794]

@@joeltunnah exactly. I don’t see why would anyone would get this over a Fuji x100t or x100f. If you’re getting something this small for street or casual, you’re not going to be changing lenses

[@alantuttphotography]

Considering how quickly they released this camera (about 6 months since taking over the company), looks like they did a fine job. Of course, once they have more time to do serious R&D, they'll do better.

[@Tnbt-de3ow]

OMG! Intro so cool!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@ammadoux]

yes like it so much.

[@genius1a]

The Pen EP7 is exactly what I had hoped for as a successor to my E-PL10 ! I love the retro design, the even more improved ergonomics (especially the power switch and the second wheel) . The 5 Axis stabilization and the 20 MP Sensor are a huge step up while maintaining the super compact form factor and price point. Compared to high end professional cameras its almost unfair how capable this camera is, despite its compact size! A nice accessoire could be a Bluetooth microphone if technically feaseable (for chest or stage placement without a cable). To be honest ... I'm a bit dissappointed by your review Peter. You mentioned its obvious close proximity to the E-PL10, but you failed to start from there, to shine a light on how a huge step up it actually is. The Olympus E-PL Series sold exceptionally well in a shrinking market for good reasons, how much more will this vastly improved camera add to the legacy of Olympus and its Mission? I can see how you started from your disappointed hopes for a PEN F Mark II , but its all but that. If you think about it - It would have been almost no improvement over its 5 year old predecessor anyways! Its a consumer affordable camera with some of the functionality of a PEN F. Which is actually a good thing!

[@ForsgardPeter]

The bluetooth microphone would a good addition to this. It would make quite good for vlogging.

[@WiziWes]

No evf no sale. A little underwhelmed with this camera. Need a real pen f mk2 with weather sealing and evf.

[@Fotopitsch]

Schade was da als Neuheit gelten soll. So lange habe ich gewartet auf Neuheiten von Olympus. Das Modell ist zwar sehr klein aber ohne Durchsichts Display einfach nur für Handy Fotografen gedacht. Bleibt also nur der Wechsel auf Lumix.

[@bernhardbernstein7033]

Warte mal die neue Kamera ab, die zum Jahreswechsel noch kommen soll. Außerdem gibt es ja noch die 10 Mk iv

[@borderlands6606]

This form factor is what makes m43 still relevant, for me at least. However the Pen has little my 5 year old GX80 lacks, and the Panasonic has an EVF. Anyone serious about a rangefinder style micro four thirds camera with 2021 technology, is still waiting.

[@JensMHA]

Your awaited model was released in 2018 with the GX9... ;-)

[@jeffdrew625]

With a pancake lens, Looks like it would fit in a coat pocket! Kind of OMD point’n’shoot? I’m happy to see that OMD is thinking & testing!

[@britonabrompton9912]

I am a relatively new convert to MFT. When I consider a new purchase, I always consider the USP (Unique Selling Point) and the advantages a particular body, or lens, might bring. Over the other ‘current’ models, the E-P7 has 8 custom modes/profiles (4 mono/4 Colour) that enable you to configure in camera looks that include colour saturation and balance for 12 colour bands and curves (for colour), or grain / curves (for B & W) , which means you can preprogram a particular look in a way that is not possible in most other cameras, except maybe Fuji. I own E-PL8, and OM-5, along with. G90 and TZ90, and other cameras, both analog and digital, but the E-P7, is the one that brings the most Joy

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks for sharing.

[@i-klaus]

My PEN E-P5 remains my "PEN F light" because it has the same battery as my OM-D E-M1. That's why I'm not going to switch. The camera manufacturers should also keep an eye on this, as it could reduce manufacturing costs.

[@ghotinggoad]

So that the next Pen will be big? Or the next EM1 will have significantly shorter battery life? I don't see how it's an advantage anyhow.

[@anitafnelsonk2826]

It’s 7 probably because Pen F is the 6th, just in alphabet.

[@MrCalvinGu]

Wow, just realised it now 🤯

[@the_old_warrior4736]

Thank you for showing this body. Thumbs up! I will not buy a cam without EVF (built in or like optional accessory port). OMDS - hmmm ... try it again, show us a Pen F II with full power :)

[@svvancouver3307]

Thank you, Peter. Your video convinced me to buy one. I have Pen-F and have never been happy with it-the articulating screen is so annoying, it is heavy, not pocketable, and I don’t need an EVF. On the other hand, love everything about my E-PL7...flip screen, light weight, tiny...BUT I can see the difference between the 16mp and 20mp. So this EP7 is the perfect best of both for me. Even though I have VF-4, I don’t use it because it adds bulk. I like discreet shoot from hip using flip touch screen and see what I get. On a totally different note, I don’t know what lens other reviews use, but they camera always looking bigger than it is. I think your video did the best job of conveying the true (and very small) size of E-P7, which also helped a lot with my decision.

[@JDa67]

It looks more like an overpriced assembly (recycling?) of existing (old?) parts. I'm sorry, but for me this is a big disappointment, that the "color/mono" button will certainly not be enough to compensate.

[@winterburden]

I've got this camera, it's really nice.

[@Orangejuiceee15]

Perfect for travelling.

[@melgross]

This is actually likely the last camera from the Olympus engineering team, and the last production set up by Olympus. There is no possible way that OMD has had the time to design a camera, build prototypes, get suppliers to send parts and materials to test, some of which they also have to design and test, set up an assembly line, do the usual two to three pre production tests and runs, get final production started, and send out cameras for review. This is a previous camera Olympus began, that OMD is producing.

[@ForsgardPeter]

The project started a year ago and yes the plans were made by Olympus and OMDS finished it.

[@melgross]

@@ForsgardPeter sure. They continued the work that was mostly finished. But it’s not OMD’s camera, in that they had nothing to do with the design or manufacturing, other than not closing it down. This is the last, or potentially the last, real Olympus camera.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Yes you are right about that. Then also it is the first camera OMDS launched. It is a joined project.

[@josephoutdoors]

I didn’t think I’d ever want to replace my PEN-F but they managed to make something look vintage but newer lol.

[@petersmitham8273]

So close!..if it only had an EVF I’d have sold my soul for it!...🤣😘🌈📸🇬🇧

[@JalanKesini]

Finally...... Another Olympus Pen with 5 axis IBIS 👍👍 it has been a long time since pen f. After finished using it please consider to lend it to Mr. Sulanto to make Olympus Pen more popular 👍

[@ForsgardPeter]

He will test this. I talked to him today. Not sure when, but soon.

[@JalanKesini]

@@ForsgardPeter yeah... 👍👍👍 Olympus need more exposure from KZbinr especially this Pen series which is normally being left over by the previous company 😂

[@MalcolmSales]

Regarding the lack of EVF. This is where the OM 10 comes into the market. Regarding EP7 The Pen f followed the EP5. F is the 6th letter in the alphabet.

[@proto57]

I agree about the lack of an EVF. When I had my old Pen EPL-1, I got the accessory EVF. My next and current camera is the Pen-F, with the built-in EVF. I would never go back... if I lost my Pen-F, or it broke irreparably, I would buy another Pen-F body. I don't know if I am a rare case, but I also hope (as many commenters here suggest) that OM does come out with a Pen-F II. Maybe with 4k video, and better video stabilization? Built in wireless remote ability would be nice, too. You can do it now, with the smart phone app, or the wired RM-UC1. But a wifi remote would be very convenient. But I also have to tell you something... just a sneaking suspicion, I have nothing solid to base this on... I just don't feel the new OM has the ability or drive or something, to make a go of this. They don't seem to have the sense of innovation that Olympus had, but more of a "bean counters" approach to camera production and sales. For one thing, I don't think they would want to spend the money and effort on a Pen-F II, but would rather think of ways to monetize, to a mass market, those things most profitable with the least effort and investment.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Pen-F Mark II is something thast quite many wants. How many will buy it is a another thing. The rangefinder style cameras have not been selling that well. Fuji has not updated X-Pro3 and it is rumoured that X-E4 will not get a successor. Panasonic has stopped making many of their range finder style cameras. For some reason people do not buy them. I personally would be interested in a Pen-F Mark II with a good quality pancake 20mm to go with it.

[@mikeforcerer8537]

That intro BARF

[@ForsgardPeter]

🤮😂

[@stephenbrasure4331]

I would not buy a camera without an EVF. And I agree about the necessity of a dial for exposure compensation. It's just really ridiculous to not offer an optional viewfinder. I had an E-PL5 that was so much better once I added the VF4. But, then I moved up to the E M10 and that camera set a new standard for what I want in a camera body.

[@frederickbelin]

It’s a product built for a specific market. There is a reason why this won’t be sold in North America. Because at that price point and the missing features, there would be very few takers.

[@ForsgardPeter]

In Japan Pen is a very popular camera.

[@robertcudlipp3426]

Totally agree. The camera market offerings are far more sophisticated than when the Pen F was released. Using a camera outside in sunshine, without an Evf, would almost be enough to have me borrow someone's mobile phone camera- only joking, but this is a very backward step.

[@POVPHOTOGUY]

that INTRO! :DDDD I love it! I waited you to rap :D hahahaaa

[@jakobsoegaard1886]

I Think a viewer / evf is a must…otherwise it is almost just a smart phone…I never understood why any camera maker would leave out such an important thing as a viewer..

[@FrantaBina701]

Custom modes are crucial for me. Pen F used to have 4, even EM10ii had few of them. Now this has zero custom modes! EP used to be premium line for advanced users. Now it's just another beginners model with cut down features and menus.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Good point about the Custom modes.

[@danny_r27]

This reminds me of my old half frame pen f camera. Brings back good memories. Had to sell it as I couldn’t see it just sitting not being used. May buy one again someday but this EP7 looks appealing for travel photography but the price tag is a bit steep for it not having a evf. I recently bought a like new condition M5 Mrk III with 14-150mm II for $970. And it’s a fully weather sealed camera. But I’ll consider the cheaper EPL cameras, Olympus image quality is something I can’t live without lol Wonderful review! You, matti, and robin are amongst my favorite micro four thirds photographers on KZbin! Always putting out helpful and detailed videos!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thank you.

[@TonyMacina]

Hopefully they do a flash sale on the other pen models, clearing the way for a simpler range of this, the 10iv, the 5iii, the 1iii and the 1X. I’d love to see an update to the 1X to have internal 10-bit and a BSI sensor, and an updated Pen-F with the phase detect AF would be a dream. For now my E-M1ii and Pana GX80 are the perfect compliments to one another.

[@elpinto7]

30 seconds in, probably one of my favourite videos. I loved the intro!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks!

[@moggridge1]

If it had a metal body and a viewfinder/accessory I would probably buy one. But, without those, it is not so desirable I think.

[@paristo]

1) Full manual mode is must. I could leave all the auto/semi-auto modes to design table as M mode is fastest way to adjust camera in any situation. You don't hunt or guess what the camera thinks, you do it by your eye that what you want. It is like old OM film camera where exposure was set by the aperture front of the lens with the focus ring, and shutter speed was set around the mount from a ring for required compensation of subject speed. And then you just shot and adjusted exposure by aperture. 2) The Fuji X-T2/3 screen hinge. That is best there ever has been designed. It gives all the best for every photographer and videographer (even when they don't know it. If you do vlogging then learn even the basic portrait guidelines: Move the camera 3-4 meters from the subject face if wanted to make a headshot or upper body shot, and use long telephoto lens. You are not going to use a LCD flipped to side to see what you look like. Instead you will take your smartphone to your hand and you have remote control to camera with it. Camera on tripod and smartphone on hand for framing, exposure adjustment and then start/stop recording. Anyways you are going to use a external mic instead the built-in one for better audio so better do same for video too). It was sad to see that X-T4 compromised that and is now a worst hinge design one can have. I am going to buy a used X-T3 just for that reason. 3) The tiny pop-up flash is great to have. People should use it more in the fill-in mode. It really does amazing things for portraits. I am wondering that why did not OMDS include the five pin hotshoe? The E-M5 II and E-M1 II added turnable flash is great. Sure it is small but it is great to have. Better than the pop-up flash. Really, just the fifth power pin would have been needed. 4) The EVF required accessory port 2 would have been amazing addition. The VF4 is larger than the E-M1 II and III viewfinder. By the specs it says same, but comparing them side by side shows that VF4 is slightly larger. Now make it a high resolution and fast refresh rate for 200€ extra and it would have been worth it. It would make every E-PL and E-P camera even more attractive when you can keep a tiny body and just snap in a excellent EVF when needed. That is what makes E-P5 so great even today that you can attach it there. Seriously, look at it! www.dpreview.com/files/p/articles/4156987072/images/silver-vf4.jpeg Best possible VF for anyone! Use your left or right eye - it doesn't matter! You got a tilting 90 degree upward too! I prefer the VF2 look far more (Leica licensed it from Olympus, but Leica model has one notch and Leica brand and costs few hundred more...) static.bhphoto.com/images/images1000x1000/1269442831_675005.jpg 5) That Color / Mono switch is great feature, the knob was litte hard to use in PEN-F and it is anyways parked on me for Mono 2 profile. The B/W mode really makes easy to do photography as you get to see everything in B/W and it helps to find subjects and themes that otherwise are "unseen" as you don't always imagine them look nice in B/W. 6) The Bluetooth is such that should be always active and connected to phone. So you can right on the spot get smartphone remote control to camera. NFC would be nice that you just touch the camera with phone and you have live view on phone. That would be amazing. People will bash the camera because Micro-USB, but that is still the most dominant and well available cable for next 5-10 years. The USB-C will come in 5 years to be the dominant on phones, but it takes time. So sure future proofing with USB-C would made easy for traveling but only if you could get a charger to have USB C. And that comes to last point: 7) Charger needs to be with USB connection. No more power plug. You need to be able to use camera same time as you have extra battery charging in the bag. Or travel with just one cable for laptop, camera, phone etc. In-body charging is not sensible. It is just possible when you leave your camera to hotel room or home attached to cable. You can charge only in-body and you need to leave the extra battery out of body meanwhile. So you are trying to charge camera same time when using it? Not working. Where is the USB charging in-body great? In time-lapse. You lave the camera to run for 2-3 days and you attach a USB cable with 10'000-25'000 mAh battery on it. It will power the camera for next few weeks. This of course means that time-lapse and sleep mode needs to work properly so that all displays are shut off when running and camera is put on sleep right away after taking a photo if not less than 30 seconds for next.

[@christianmayrhofer4178]

No EVF is bad for this price range. However, i take most photos via the monitor even in the sun. This works very well with Olympus cameras, the monitors are well anti-reflective. To be honest, i very rarely have problems and find it very relaxing to take photos this way rather than having to squeeze my eye against the camera.

[@TL-xw6fh]

All the money spend on developing a camera to fulfill a segment that is fast disappearing. I think it is sad that the money should have been spend on a true Pen-F replacement. A miss for me.

[@Smoothblue90]

This camera will kill it in Asia.

[@ikoknyphausen198]

I fully agree with your review. I love the camera for street photography. It's unimposing, has a silent electronic shutter, excellent IBIS, great IQ, but I wish they had an accessory port under the hotshoe so that you could mount an EVF. A design mistake in my opinion. I got mine used for cheap, but if I had paid full price, the EVF issue would have been a major complaint. I use mine as a BW (profile #2 - slightly modified) camera.

[@bublylybub8743]

Ep7 looks fantastic! Want it right now!!!

[@deltalima]

With EVF, it technical would be a M10iv. Therefore it's sensible to omitting the EVF on this camera for getting a much more compact camera.

[@1955mlynch]

Thank you Peter for an honest and thorough assessment. No EVF equals no interest to me.

[@DEEPDIVERever]

The size and design are fine, but otherwise it looks like some kind of mistake. Who is the target audience of this camera? Those who shoot on a mobile phone? But why? I caught myself thinking that if this camera was only black and white, with a viewfinder, without unnecessary things like a flash (hi Leica))), then it would be at least somewhat original and I would buy it as a 2-nd camera. But not for crazy money (goodbye Leica))). Waiting for the Pen F mark 2. I hope it will be.

[@vaska00762]

The target audience is Japan. Over there, there's still a market for these sorts of cameras, and they're surprisingly popular. Certainly, OMDS missed an opportunity to make this have loads of colour profiles in the same way as Fuji's film simulations, but... Not much you can do about that.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Pen is a very popular camera in Japan. They are quite popular here in Finland too. Many lifestyle bloggers have one.

[@Artycloughiii]

I have an old EPL-1 that I'm letting someone in Colombia borrow and I was looking for a video in Spanish. Your review came up in the search brother!

[@mirkoregina8733]

Hi, Olympus E-p7 has the Hi-res function and the ability to save the presets created by recalling them with the pre-configured keys? Does the display work in such a way that you don't regret the viewfinder?

[@ForsgardPeter]

It does not highres -mode, no presets, but custom buttons yes. I personally prefer an EVF. So for me the LCD is not enough.

[@bakermantube]

A honest piece of review! I also think a evf would be fine. The body material is a minus for me. But this little camera looks gorgeous!

[@searam1]

I agree with you, Peter, about the back dial and exposure compensation! I am the same way!

[@guipe43]

Beatiful black and white pictures, with great composition!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thank you.

[@johntruman6571]

Thanks Peter. I wouldn't even consider a camera that doesn't include an EVF.

[@kennygo8300]

I see these new cameras and consider how I would use it. Then I'll take a walk with my old GX85. I come home, I like the results and feel content with what I have. The lack of an EVF is a deal killer.

[@snowwalker9999]

I wouldn't mind owning one. I don't think there are any cameras out there at that price with 5-axis IBIS. It's a great camera to put in your pocket for street photography.

[@Leptospirosi]

I wonder why this camera has been so much toned down compare to the Pen F: I'm not talking about materials and stuff, which obviously aim at a different price placements, but WHY the cut off features like the Custom setting on the dial? It seems like Olympus thins the Pen Users are just Auto shooters coming from a phone, but for that they already had the EPL line. this to me looks like an EM10 MkIV with a different body and no EVF. Why should someone pick this if not for the look? Had they chosen to build an EP7 based on the EM5mkIII (PD autofocus) without the evf and the flippy screen to keep the price down it would at least have a more understandable place in the line, but how will this camera compete price wise with the already cheap EM10 MkIV? In the end the Pen-F is still equal or superior to this camera in every possible way except for the Truepic processor which probably gives it a video capability at 4K.

[@marcuskaneshiro]

Thanks for the review. Those are beautiful images you shot!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thank you very much.

[@QippysChannel]

thanks one handsome camera that I would love to try someday!

[@RobTrek]

Nice overview, Peter! I read this is not coming to North America. That aside it looks like a quality-built camera packed with almost everything Olympus has to offer.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks Rob. Yes, I heard that it is only for Japanese and European market. I did not know that when I was making the video.

[@andreasthegreat8509]

Rob Trek made a video about the new mft sensors Sony has come up with, they have a killer 20mp BSI sensor for sale if Olympus would like it. I really hope they make a Em1 around that one.

[@ForsgardPeter]

MFT needs a new sensor. The current one is outdated.

[@steventhomas231]

I was super excited when i first saw this. Sleek design and a return to a metal build which is far superior to all plastic. But no EVF! So disappointing. I started out with the epl series. Nice to use until its sunny! Still hopefully for a proper pen f.

[@subliminallyinc]

I have a feeling theyre going to make that battery obsolete now that the em1 mkii/iii uses the big battery. no need for three separate battery models when there is only going to be two tiers of camera types: casual and PRO.

[@ShakurTheAshier]

I almost didn't mind, but yea, missed opportunity for a rangefinder style evf

[@Mo2008di]

There is a EVF replacement which attaches on the screen.. I know it’s will not totally replace the evf but at least it’s a good solution… thanks for this video

[@tonysanchez888]

Peter is going gangsta with his music!

[@ForsgardPeter]

👍

[@leonarddaneman810]

1) Why a B&W switch? One of my favorite 'hacks' is to use Channels in Photoshop to adjust the color image as a monochrome plus filters. So, you don't have to carry yellow, red, green, etc., filters like you do using B&W film . . . landscape? Fine tune the red channel for clouds and skies . . . Portraits? Slide the Green channel for better skin tone. 2) A TRUE B&W SWITCH would bypass the Bayer Filter converting 24-bit color files to 1-bit greyscale . . . and tripling, quadrupling the sensor resolution.

[@FrancoisMcinnes]

Inmainly do street photography, and night. One thing i would love to have on any camera, is a button to switch between fast speed e.g. 1/200s and greater depth of field low iso. As an example, i see a someone walking, f1.8, isomwhatever, 1/200s . Then, i want take a building, iso400, f5.6, speed whatvever, like 1/10, is good enough handheld with ibis. Without going thru the wheels, looking at my camera fir propermsettings.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Good idea.

[@briangibson4726]

I agree with what Peter says about viewfinders, but if it had an EVF it would be called the PEN-F.

[@ForsgardPeter]

True.

[@briangibson4726]

@@ForsgardPeter For me, No EVF = No sale!

[@pauldby1479]

Looks nice but weak inside -Fuji XE4 would be better buy

[@borderlands6606]

Adding a lens takes the Pen into X100V prices, and the Fuji is a much superior camera.

[@VictorReynolds]

Hello Peter! Glad you have sunny weather in Helsinki. We're having high heat and thunderstorms here in the NYC area. To me, I like it with the 20mp and wireless connectivity. Even though not a deal breaker, an EVF would've been a nice feature. I could attach the VF-4 optional viewfinder to my E-PL6 if I needed it. Overall, it could still find a home in my camera bag. Thanks for sharing and enjoy that sun! All the best!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@VictorReynolds]

Update: I recently purchased the Pen E-P7 with the 14-42mm. I am putting it through its paces and getting used to the slightly different layout as compared to my E-PL6. So far I do like it.

[@FierceSleepingDog]

I have the E-PL9 and the lack of a 2nd dial does annoy me. I like having two dials (i.e. one for shutter speed and one for aperture).

[@Jimmyageek]

I do vlogging with E-PL9 but was waiting for E-PL10 with 3.5mm jack and now this E-P7, I m done with Olympus

[@derekgpony]

This is a nice looking camera and as you said Peter, its like a mini Pen F. I'd certainly be interested in it for a street camera. Sadly, it has not come to North America.

[@augustiner3821]

Listen OM Systems, as long as there is no successor with a tiltable view finder, I will stick to my E-P5. Just bought a refurbished one. 😊

[@xmeda]

Crucial features? If we put compact cameras aside, then ergonomy, IBIS, front (shutter speed) + rear (aperture) command wheels and of course nice big viewfinder :)

[@armanddimeo6575]

It baffles me why Olympus eliminated the add-on EVF option. I liked my E-PL 7 much better after I added the optional EVF. Using the LCD panel in the bright New Mexico sun is extremely difficult and would often cause me to miss shots.

[@mawavoy]

For a PenF II , I would like weather sealing, focus stacking, more dynamic range , animal and bird eye recognition.

[@mikechudzinski6629]

Great review, Peter. I will consider acquiring this PEN camera.

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thanks.

[@AllieOnPointe]

I love the look. (I have both Pen F and pen epl9 as well as em10 ii and em5 ii) but I’d rather see a Pen F II with weather sealing. This seems to be a mix between the Pen F and pen series. I’ve always hated the flip down screen on the pen series and I like having an EVF. But having the second dial and the monochrome feature is nice!

[@weisserth]

Wow. Nice! It looks great. Well, d'uh! It's a PEN!

[@apislapis]

It looks gorgeous Peter. As you say, shame about the lack of EVF.

[@louisjohnmanuel3661]

Thanks for another great video Peter!

[@ForsgardPeter]

Thank you.