Cradling a mock-up of the camera in his hands, design team leader Yasuo Funakoshi explained how the team set about designing the E-1's successor.
“We began by talking with E-1 owners and professional photographers to determine how we could help them realize their full potential, expand their photographic horizons, and fulfill their extremely diverse range of needs. Then, having listened to their opinions and noted their requests and expectations, we took a fresh look at what the performance requirements of a digital SLR really are, and carefully considered each of these factors.
“The result is a flagship designed to offer mobility, functionality, durability, and presence. In other words, a professional tool that truly resonates with the user's senses.”

“Take mobility, for example. The front view evokes the tensed musculature of an athlete waiting for the starting pistol, or a black panther about to pounce on his prey.
“It also reflects the outstanding mobility and high dust and splash resistance that are distinctive characteristics of the Four Thirds System, and that enable the camera to be taken virtually anywhere. And, of course, it also has a presence that reflects its status as the E-Series flagship.
“The camera's impressive functionality and high performance as the next-generation E-Series flagship is also reflected in the design, which evokes the tight, dense, efficient layout of controls in an airplane cockpit.
“The camera's design also reflects its durability, with high resistance to dust and moisture, and a high-endurance shutter mechanism, that evokes an image of ruggedness that shrugs off rough handling.”