Olympus's entry PEN — the E-PL3 with ultra-compact body and tiltable LCD.
The Olympus PEN E-PL3 is a mid-range PEN-series mirrorless camera from Olympus within the Micro Four Thirds system, introduced in 2011. It was designed to balance compact lifestyle form factor with genuine photographic capability, appealing to enthusiast upgraders from compact cameras.
The E-PL3 uses a 12-megapixel Live MOS sensor, provides 3-axis in-body image stabilisation, captures 1080i/720p video, features a 3-inch tilting LCD, includes a built-in flash, and accepts the optional VF-3 electronic viewfinder via the accessory port. No electronic viewfinder is built in.
The tilting LCD and optional EVF give the E-PL3 meaningful flexibility for both low-angle shooting and viewfinder-style composition — unusual for its price tier in 2011. 3-axis IBIS works with all MFT lenses regardless of their own stabilisation status. The PEN design language with retro two-tone finish differentiated it from the OM-D line's more functional aesthetic.
Test IBIS effectiveness in handheld low-light shots. Check the tilting LCD hinge for smooth operation. Verify EVF accessory port function if applicable. Inspect the built-in flash and test popup operation. Check MFT mount contacts for corrosion.