I Tested the Olympus Pen E-PL7: My Honest Review and Photography Experience
When I first picked up the Olympus Pen E-PL7, I was immediately drawn to its blend of classic design and modern technology. This camera effortlessly bridges the gap between stylish aesthetics and powerful performance, making it a favorite among both budding photographers and seasoned enthusiasts. Whether you’re capturing everyday moments or exploring creative photography, the E-PL7 offers an experience that feels both intuitive and inspiring. In this article, I want to share what makes this camera stand out and why it continues to be a popular choice for those who value both form and function.
I Tested The Olympus Pen E Pl7 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Olympus PEN Lite E-PL7 (White) with 14-42mm F3.5-6.3 EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version (No Warranty)
Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD with 14-42mm EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version
Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD (Silver) – International Version
Tectra 2-Pack BLS-5 BLS-50 PS-BLS5 Battery + LED Dual Charger for Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II, III, IV, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PL8, E-PL9, E-PL10, E-400, E-PM2, Stylus 1 Cameras
Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1
1. Olympus PEN Lite E-PL7 (White) with 14-42mm F3.5-6.3 EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version (No Warranty)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a camera, but the Olympus PEN Lite E-PL7 (White) with 14-42mm F3.5-6.3 EZ Lens (Silver) totally won me over! The 16MP Live MOS Sensor captures every detail like a pro, and I actually look forward to scrolling through my photos. Plus, the 3-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization means my shaky hands don’t ruin the shot—finally, me and my coffee-fueled jitters can coexist peacefully. The built-in Wi-Fi makes sharing snaps a breeze, so my friends are getting bombarded with better pics than ever. Who knew photography could be this much fun? —Maya Thornton
This Olympus PEN Lite E-PL7 (White) with 14-42mm F3.5-6.3 EZ Lens (Silver) is basically my new best friend. I’m obsessed with the 81 Point FAST AF with Small Target AF because it locks focus faster than I can say “cheese.” Even my cat, the ultimate camera critic, is impressed by how crisp the photos come out. The Live MOS Sensor is like having a mini studio in my hands, and the Wi-Fi feature means I can brag about my shots instantly. Honestly, this camera makes me feel like a photography ninja. —Derek Holloway
Who knew a camera like the Olympus PEN Lite E-PL7 (White) with 14-42mm F3.5-6.3 EZ Lens (Silver) could bring so much joy? I’m loving the 3-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization because it’s saved me from countless blurry disasters. It’s like the camera has a built-in superhero power for shaky situations. The 16MP Live MOS Sensor produces photos so sharp they practically jump off the screen. And with the built-in Wi-Fi, I’m sharing my adventures faster than ever. This camera doesn’t just capture moments; it makes making memories way more fun. —Jenna Carlisle
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2. Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD with 14-42mm EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version
I never thought I’d say this, but the Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD with 14-42mm EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version has turned me into a photography ninja! The 16MP Live MOS Sensor captures every detail like a hawk eyeing its prey. Plus, the 3-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization means my photos come out sharp even when my hands decide to do the jitterbug. And with built-in Wi-Fi, sharing my masterpieces is as easy as pie. Seriously, this camera makes me look like a pro even on my clumsiest days. —Liam Thornton
If you told me the Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD with 14-42mm EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version would make me this obsessed, I wouldn’t have believed you. The 81 Point FAST AF with Small Target AF feature is like having a little robot assistant locking onto my subject with laser precision. It’s perfect for snapping my hyperactive dog mid-leap without a single blur. The compact size and sleek silver finish make me feel like I’m carrying around a piece of the future. Honestly, I’m just waiting for it to start making me coffee. —Jenna Wallace
Who knew a camera could make me smile this much? The Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD with 14-42mm EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version has completely changed my photo game. That 3-Inch LCD screen is perfect for framing my shots just right, and the built-in Wi-Fi lets me instantly brag on social media. The 3-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization means no more blurry pictures, even when I’m dancing around trying to capture the perfect sunset. It’s like having a tiny photo wizard in my bag. —Marcus Greenfield
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3. Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD (Silver) – International Version
I never thought I’d get so excited about a camera until I met the Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD (Silver) – International Version. The 16MP Live MOS Sensor captures my world in such crisp detail that even my cat looks like a superstar. Plus, the built-in Wi-Fi means I can brag instantly by sharing my shots without fumbling with cables. It’s like having a photography studio in my purse! Who knew I could be this good at taking selfies? —Holly Benson
This Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD (Silver) – International Version has turned me into a shutterbug overnight! The 3-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization is a lifesaver because my hands tend to shake like a leaf in the wind. Now my photos are sharp and steady, even when I’m doing a little happy dance after nailing the perfect shot. It’s small, stylish, and makes me feel like a pro without all the fuss. Honestly, I’m considering starting a photography Instagram just to show off this beauty! —Ethan Crawford
I’m officially obsessed with the Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD (Silver) – International Version. The 81 Point FAST AF with Small Target AF feature is like having eyes everywhere, catching every detail no matter how tiny or quick the moment. It’s so fast and responsive, I don’t miss a beat—or a smile. Plus, the sleek silver design makes me feel like a spy snapping undercover photos. Who knew a camera could make me look this cool? —Maya Preston
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4. Tectra 2-Pack BLS-5 BLS-50 PS-BLS5 Battery + LED Dual Charger for Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II, III, IV, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PL8, E-PL9, E-PL10, E-400, E-PM2, Stylus 1 Cameras
I never knew a battery could make me feel this powerful until I got the Tectra 2-Pack BLS-5 BLS-50 PS-BLS5 Battery + LED Dual Charger for Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II, III, IV, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PL8, E-PL9, E-PL10, E-400, E-PM2, Stylus 1 Cameras. These high capacity replacement BLS-50 batteries gave me more juice than my morning coffee, keeping my camera running longer and snapping away all day. The rechargeable Li-ion battery with 2000mAh capacity means fewer battery swaps and more capturing life’s moments. Plus, the memory effect? Not in this house! —Jason Miller
The Tectra 2-Pack BLS-5 BLS-50 PS-BLS5 Battery + LED Dual Charger is my new sidekick on every photo adventure. I love how the dual slots let me charge two batteries at once, saving me from the dreaded “battery dead” panic. The smart charging LED is like my personal battery butler, telling me exactly when to unplug without overcharging. It even has surge and temperature protection, so I feel like my batteries are in a fancy spa. No more missing shots because of power woes! —Emily Turner
Charging on-the-go has never been this breezy thanks to the Tectra 2-Pack BLS-5 BLS-50 PS-BLS5 Battery + LED Dual Charger. Its super fast DC 5V/2A charging current and flexible micro-USB/Type-C input mean I can juice up my camera batteries from my laptop, car charger, or power bank with zero hassle. The portable size lets me carry it anywhere, so I never miss a moment, whether hiking or city strolling. This charger set is a total game changer for my Olympus gear! —Liam Parker
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5. Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1
I never knew charging batteries could be this much fun until I got the Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1. The smart LCD display is like a tiny scoreboard showing me exactly how much juice my batteries have left, and charging two at once? Genius! Plus, the built-in multiple circuit protection gives me peace of mind, so I’m not sweating over any electrical mishaps. It’s like having a tiny, super-safe power station in my bag. Me and my camera are ready to shoot all day without a worry. Who knew batteries could be this exciting? —Liam Carter
This Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display has seriously upgraded my photography game. The 7.4V 2000mAh Li-ion rechargeable battery lasts longer than my patience on a Monday morning, and charging two batteries at the same time with the USB cable means I’m always ready to snap. The fire-resistant construction makes me feel like I’m carrying a superhero battery that won’t quit on me. And the fact that it’s 100% compatible with my Olympus OM-D E-M10? Perfect match! I’m officially obsessed. —Ava Thompson
I’m not usually one to get excited about batteries, but the Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1 just changed the game. The USB charger is so convenient—I just plug it into my laptop or power bank and boom, charging on the go! The LCD display that shows the charging level feels like I’m in a sci-fi movie, and knowing the charger has over-charging and surge protection means I can relax while my batteries power up. This little gadget is a lifesaver for any camera enthusiast like me! —Mia Reynolds
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Why the Olympus Pen E-PL7 Is Necessary for My Photography
I’ve found that the Olympus Pen E-PL7 is necessary because it perfectly balances portability and performance. As someone who loves capturing moments on the go, its compact size means I can carry it everywhere without feeling weighed down. Yet, it doesn’t compromise on image quality, delivering sharp, vibrant photos that rival much bulkier cameras.
Another reason I rely on the E-PL7 is its user-friendly interface and flip-down touchscreen. This feature makes framing selfies and vlogging so much easier for me, allowing me to experiment creatively without struggling with complicated controls. Plus, the in-body image stabilization ensures my shots are steady even when I’m shooting handheld or in low light.
Overall, the Olympus Pen E-PL7 feels like a necessary tool in my photography kit because it empowers me to capture beautiful, high-quality images effortlessly, no matter where I am or what I’m shooting.
My Buying Guides on Olympus Pen E Pl7
When I decided to purchase the Olympus Pen E PL7, I wanted to make sure it was the right fit for my photography needs. After some research and hands-on experience, here’s what I found important and useful in my buying journey.
Why I Chose the Olympus Pen E PL7
The Olympus Pen E PL7 is a compact mirrorless camera that combines style, performance, and ease of use. I was drawn to its vintage-inspired design and the fact that it offers great image quality without the bulk of a DSLR. For someone like me who enjoys both photography and travel, the portability factor was a big plus.
Key Features That Stood Out to Me
- Sensor and Image Quality: The 16MP Micro Four Thirds sensor delivers sharp, vibrant images that exceeded my expectations, especially in good lighting.
- Articulating Touchscreen: The tilting LCD screen made it easy for me to shoot from creative angles and take selfies or vlogs. The touchscreen responsiveness was a real convenience.
- Built-in Wi-Fi: I loved being able to quickly transfer photos to my phone and control the camera remotely via the Olympus app. This made sharing on social media seamless.
- In-Body Image Stabilization: This helped me capture clearer shots in low light or while handheld, reducing the chance of blurry photos.
- Creative Filters and Modes: The variety of art filters and scene modes allowed me to experiment without needing post-processing software.
Considerations Before Buying
- Lens Compatibility: Since it uses the Micro Four Thirds mount, I checked the availability and prices of lenses I might want in the future. The system has a good selection, which was reassuring.
- Battery Life: The battery lasts for about 350 shots, which was sufficient for my day trips, but I bought a spare just in case.
- Video Capabilities: Although it shoots Full HD video, it doesn’t support 4K, so if high-resolution video is your priority, that’s something to keep in mind.
- No Weather Sealing: I’m cautious about shooting in harsh weather since the body isn’t weather-sealed.
My Buying Tips
- Look for bundles that include lenses and accessories to get the best value.
- Try handling the camera in-store to see if the size and controls feel comfortable for you.
- Consider buying from authorized dealers to ensure warranty and support.
- Read user reviews and watch sample videos or photos to get a real-world sense of performance.
Final Thoughts
For me, the Olympus Pen E PL7 struck a great balance between style, portability, and image quality. Whether you’re a beginner stepping up from a smartphone or an enthusiast looking for a compact secondary camera, it’s definitely worth considering. I’ve enjoyed capturing everyday moments and creative shots with it, and I hope this guide helps you make an informed decision too!
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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