“The second goal we set was to offer an
extremely high level of mobility.
“The size of the image sensor defined by
the Four Thirds System standard is roughly one-quarter
the size of 35mm film. And by a fortunate coincidence,
the same field of view can be obtained at about one-half
the focal length of a 35mm film format lens.
Which means that even though an Olympus E-System 300mm
telephoto lens built to the Four Thirds System standard offers
the focal length equivalent of a 35mm film format 600mm
telephoto lens, it can be made brighter and
significantly more compact.
And the increased mobility of a more compact system assures
more responsive focusing and handling, too.
“Of course we also sought to speed up flash charging,
PC data transfer and other speed/response characteristics of
the system. And ease of operation was stressed because
it is important to the achievement of high mobility. After all,
no matter how compact and responsive a camera is,
it’s no good if it isn’t easy to use. It is this pursuit of
operating ease that enabled us to realize the highest level of
mobility on our recently released E-series cameras.”

“The third goal we set ourselves was the achievement of
the highest possible level of reliability,
and the toughness needed to allow worry-free operation in
adverse environments and shooting situations.
And by this I’m not just referring to the pioneering
Dust Reduction System introduced to the world on the E-1,
which is now incorporated into all E-series cameras,
or the physical protection offered by the dust- and
moisture-resistance of Olympus E-System bodies and lenses.
I’m also referring to psychological issues such
as the peace of mind that is provided by the feel,
response, and sound of the shutter release button, dials,
and other camera controls. Because these, too,
are an important part of the outstanding reliability
we want to offer.”

“The fourth goal we aimed to achieve was the creation of
a fully integrated digital workflow that enables professionals and
photo-enthusiasts to seamlessly develop, review,
and select images during post-production. In the days of film,
photo shooting and film processing were two separate areas of
expertise. But in the digital age, the complex chemical processes
of film development have been replaced by the
streamlined processes of electronic data processing.
And to enable users to benefit from the efficiency and simplicity
this potentially offers, cameras need to be developed from
the ground up with this digital workflow in mind.
“From the outset, E-series cameras have offered
high-speed data transfer, and with each succeeding version of
the software bundled with the E-series ,
we have significantly improved the speed and efficiency of
RAW image data processing.
The software also includes a virtual lightbox function
that enables users to review and select images just as
they did in the film era.
“The Olympus E-System was developed with
the evolving potential of digital sensors and the digital workflow
in mind to ensure that lens performance will never be outpaced
by advances in sensor technology, and that accessories and
firmware will always be relevant and up-to-date. Above all,
one of its greatest strengths is that it is a fully integrated system
that supports a totally seamless digital workflow.”

“To provide users with long-term peace of mind,
we are committed to support the ‘Culture of Imaging.”

“As manufacturers, our mindset reflects the emphasis we place
on the fundamentals of technology, and our desire to share
the benefits of the latest technologies with our customers.
And I think it is a key element of the
Olympus Spirit that lives in our hearts.”