KLPF: Olympus E-510 with kit lens 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 Image Stabilization hands-on review

Having won the EISA “European Consumer Camera
2007-2008″Award, I was eager to know how true is what Leo said. Theoretically
speaking, having the IS system built-into the camera body, one can save a huge
amount of money on lens investment. For instance, a 70-200 F2.8 non-IS version
cost around USD1100 (RM3740) while the IS version cost around USD1700 (RN5780).

The E-510 is set to
the following:
Exposure Time = 1/30″
F Number = F5.6
Exposure Program = Manual
ISO Speed Ratings = 400
Metering Mode = Center Weighted Average
Focal Length = 42mm
White Balance = Auto white balance

I have taken 2 burst with IS off, while 1 in single mode with
IS activated. The original images are shown below and follow up with image 100%
cropped on the focused area.

Reszed images
Photo 1 with IS off

Olympus E-510 IS off first shot

Photo 2 with IS off

Olympus E-510 IS off second shot

Photo with IS on

Olympus E-510 IS on

100% cropped images

Photo 1 with IS off

Olympus E-510 IS off 100% cropped Photo 1

Photo looks blur when taken without IS at shutter speed of 1/30 with focal length of 84mm.

Photo 2 with IS off

Olympus E-510 IS off 100% cropped Photo 2

Photo looks better than the first shot, but camera shake is still noticable.

Photo with IS on

Olympus E-510 IS ON 100% cropped

With IS on, the above photo is sharper than previous two.

A brief testing of the Olympus E-510’s Image Stabilization
does impress me. With the retail price of USD730 (RM2482) with kit lens, it is
well-worth buying for beginners and those who would like to travel light. With
its Live-view capabilities, the E-510 is good for underwater photography when
coupled with Gibson E-510. More info of Olympus E-510 here.