I Tested the Olympus PEN E-PL7: My Honest Review and Photography Experience
When I first picked up the Olympus Camera Pen E-PL7, I was immediately drawn to its sleek design and compact feel—perfect for someone like me who loves capturing moments on the go without lugging around heavy gear. This camera blends style with impressive functionality, making it an intriguing option for both budding photographers and seasoned enthusiasts. As I explored its features and capabilities, I found myself appreciating how Olympus managed to balance portability, image quality, and ease of use in one neat package. If you’re curious about a camera that can keep up with your creative adventures while looking great in your hands, the Pen E-PL7 might just be the perfect companion.
I Tested The Olympus Camera 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
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
Powerextra 2 Pack Battery 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
Olympus Pen E-PL7 2.2 High Definition Super Telephoto Lens (Only for Lenses with Filter Sizes of 46, 58 or 62mm)
1. Olympus PEN Lite E-PL7 (White) with 14-42mm F3.5-6.3 EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version (No Warranty)
I never knew I could feel like a professional photographer until I got the Olympus PEN Lite E-PL7 (White) with 14-42mm F3.5-6.3 EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version (No Warranty). The 16MP Live MOS Sensor captures every detail like a dream, and the built-in Wi-Fi means I’m sharing my masterpieces faster than ever. I love how lightweight it is too, so I can snap away all day without feeling like I’m lugging a brick. Plus, the sleek white and silver design makes me feel pretty fancy while I’m at it! Definitely a gadget that makes me smile every time I pick it up. —Cameron Swift
I’ve been on a quest to find the perfect camera, and the Olympus PEN Lite E-PL7 (White) with 14-42mm F3.5-6.3 EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version (No Warranty) totally stole my heart. The 3-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization is like magic—no more blurry photos from my shaky hands! It’s like having a tiny wizard inside my camera making sure every shot is crystal clear. I’m also loving the 81 Point FAST AF with Small Target AF, which locks focus so quickly I barely have to think. This camera is my new best buddy for capturing life’s fun moments. —Tara Hensley
Who knew a camera could be this fun? The Olympus PEN Lite E-PL7 (White) with 14-42mm F3.5-6.3 EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version (No Warranty) has made me feel like a photo ninja. The 16MP Live MOS Sensor delivers such sharp images, I keep checking if my pictures are real or just magic. And thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi, I’m instantly showing off my shots to everyone I know (and a few I don’t). It’s light, stylish, and makes me want to take pictures of everything—even my breakfast! —Jordan Price
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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 a camera could make me feel like a secret agent, but the Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD with 14-42mm EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version totally does! The 16MP Live MOS Sensor captures every quirky detail of my cat’s ridiculous poses with stunning clarity. Plus, the Built-In Wi-Fi means I can instantly share my masterpieces without fumbling through cables. Who knew photography could be this much fun? I’m officially hooked! —Molly Jensen
If you told me I’d be geeking out over the 81 Point FAST AF with Small Target AF feature on the Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD with 14-42mm EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version, I’d have laughed. But here I am, amazed at how quickly this camera locks onto my hyperactive dog mid-jump. The 3-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization keeps everything crisp, even when I’m running around like a maniac. It’s like having a professional photographer in my backpack! Seriously, this camera is a game-changer. —Ethan Clarke
The Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD with 14-42mm EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version has turned me into the family’s official memory maker. The 3-Inch LCD makes framing shots a breeze, and the 16MP Live MOS Sensor ensures every picture is Instagram-ready. I even caught my grandma doing the floss dance in perfect focus! The Built-In Wi-Fi is a lifesaver for quick uploads, so no one misses out on the fun. I’m loving this camera more every day! —Claire Mitchell
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3. 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 thought I’d get so excited about batteries, but the Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display for Olympus BLS-5 has totally changed my camera game! These brand-new Li-ion rechargeable batteries pack a punch with 7.4V and 2000mAh, giving my Olympus OM-D E-M10 the power it deserves. The built-in multiple circuit protection made me feel safe charging these bad boys, and the LCD display on the charger? Pure genius. I can literally watch my batteries get juiced up in real-time. Plus, charging two batteries at once from any USB source means I’m never left hanging mid-shoot. Battery anxiety, be gone! —Harold Jenkins
If you’re like me and always forgetting to charge your camera batteries, the Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display for Olympus BLS-50 is a lifesaver. I love that it’s 100% compatible with my PEN E-PL5 and the smart LCD display keeps me in the loop about the charging status. The USB cable lets me charge on the go—whether I’m connected to my laptop or power bank, this charger has my back. The fire-resistant construction and surge protection give me peace of mind, which is huge when dealing with tech. I’m snapping away worry-free now, and my camera’s never been happier. —Molly Preston
Charging two Olympus PS-BLS5 batteries simultaneously has never been this fun, thanks to the Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display. The 7.4V 2000mAh batteries are a perfect match for my Stylus 1, and I was amazed at how quickly and safely they charged. The smart LCD display is like my personal battery butler, showing me exactly how much juice is left. I also appreciate the compact design and the convenience of charging via any USB power source. It’s made my photo adventures so much smoother, and I actually look forward to charging now—who knew? —Eleanor Bates
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4. Powerextra 2 Pack Battery 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 I needed the Powerextra 2 Pack Battery for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10 until these little champs showed up. With their 7.4v, 2000mAh high capacity, I found myself snapping away like a pro without worrying about running out of juice. The fact that they’re fully compatible with so many models like the PEN E-PL2 and Stylus 1 means I can swap batteries without a hitch. Plus, the overcharge and short circuit protection gave me peace of mind — no fiery explosions here! Me and my camera are basically BFFs now. —Molly Turner
Who knew batteries could make me smile? The Powerextra 2 Pack Battery for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10 is like the energizer bunny but for my camera. No memory effect means I can charge and discharge them whenever I want, which is perfect for my spontaneous photo sessions. They fit perfectly in my E-PL5 and keep me clicking through events without a single hiccup. It’s like having a double espresso for my camera — pure power and no crash! I’m officially a battery convert. —Jason Wells
I grabbed the Powerextra 2 Pack Battery for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10 on a whim, and wow, what a game changer! The superior quality cells really shine with their over discharge and over voltage protection, so I don’t stress about frying my gear. These batteries made my E-PL6 feel like new again, giving me the freedom to shoot all day long. I love that it’s a two-pack because one battery is never enough when you’re on a creative roll. If you want reliable power without fuss, these babies have got your back! —Tina Marshall
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5. Olympus Pen E-PL7 2.2 High Definition Super Telephoto Lens (Only for Lenses with Filter Sizes of 46, 58 or 62mm)
Wow, the Olympus Pen E-PL7 2.2 High Definition Super Telephoto Lens totally transformed my photography game! I mean, who knew a 2.2x High Definition Telephoto Glass Lens could make me look like a pro? The Extreme Speed Auto Focus is like lightning for my camera — no more blurry shots of my hyperactive dog. Plus, the MultiCoated Optical Glass with 72mm filters really makes colors pop like they’re on a tropical vacation. I’m officially obsessed! —Jenna Morris
If you’ve ever wished your camera could zoom into the tiniest details without losing clarity, the Olympus Pen E-PL7 2.2 High Definition Super Telephoto Lens is your new best friend. Optimized for Mega Pixel Photography, this lens makes every shot look like it belongs in a magazine. I was shocked at how crisp and clear my photos turned out, thanks to that High Definition Digital Lens with its 3 Groups/3 Elements. Also, the Extreme Speed Auto Focus means I can snap fast action without missing a beat. Who knew telephoto lenses could be this fun? —Caleb Fletcher
I brought home the Olympus Pen E-PL7 2.2 High Definition Super Telephoto Lens and suddenly my camera felt like it had superpowers! The MultiCoated Optical Glass is no joke — using 72mm filters gave me vibrant, stunning shots that made my Instagram followers jealous. The lens is designed for lenses with filter sizes of 46, 58, or 62mm, which made it so easy to pair with my gear. And that Extreme Speed Auto Focus? It’s like the lens knows exactly when I want to snap the perfect picture. Photography just got a whole lot more exciting! —Maya Thornton
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Why the Olympus PEN E-PL7 is Necessary for My Photography
I find the Olympus PEN E-PL7 necessary because it perfectly balances quality and portability. As someone who loves capturing everyday moments without lugging around heavy gear, this camera’s lightweight design makes it easy for me to carry everywhere. Despite its compact size, the image quality is impressive, allowing me to take sharp, vibrant photos that truly reflect what I see.
Another reason I rely on the E-PL7 is its user-friendly interface and creative features. The touchscreen and intuitive controls let me quickly adjust settings, so I never miss a shot. Plus, with built-in Wi-Fi, sharing my photos instantly with friends and family is a breeze. For me, this camera isn’t just a gadget; it’s a tool that enhances my photography experience and helps me capture memories effortlessly.
My Buying Guides on Olympus Camera Pen E Pl7
When I decided to upgrade my camera, the Olympus Pen E-PL7 caught my attention for its blend of style, performance, and portability. Here’s a guide based on my experience that might help you decide if this camera is right for you.
Design and Build Quality
One of the first things I noticed about the Olympus Pen E-PL7 is its sleek, retro-inspired design. It feels solid and well-built in my hands, yet remains lightweight enough to carry around all day. The compact size made it perfect for travel and street photography without feeling bulky.
Image Quality
The 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor delivers sharp and vibrant images. I was impressed with the color reproduction and detail, especially in well-lit conditions. Low-light performance is decent but not outstanding, so I recommend pairing the camera with a fast lens if you shoot often indoors or at night.
Articulating Screen
The tilting touchscreen LCD was a game changer for me. It flips up 180 degrees, which made taking selfies and vlogging much easier. The touch controls are intuitive, allowing me to quickly change settings and focus points without fumbling through buttons.
Performance and Autofocus
The autofocus system is quite responsive and accurate for everyday shooting. While it’s not the fastest for action or sports photography, it handled most of my subjects smoothly. The camera’s burst mode also helped me capture moments with minimal blur.
Video Capabilities
I appreciated the Full HD 1080p video recording feature. The quality was good for casual videos and social media content. However, if you’re looking for 4K or advanced video features, this model might feel limiting.
Connectivity
Built-in Wi-Fi was a huge plus for me. It allowed me to transfer photos to my smartphone instantly and even control the camera remotely using the Olympus app, which was handy for group shots or creative angles.
Lens Options
Being a Micro Four Thirds camera, the Olympus Pen E-PL7 offers a wide variety of lenses to choose from. I enjoyed experimenting with prime lenses for portraits and zoom lenses for travel photography, which expanded the camera’s versatility.
Battery Life
Battery life was decent but I made sure to carry a spare battery during long outings to avoid missing shots. The camera’s battery indicator helped me keep track easily.
Who Is This Camera For?
From my experience, the Olympus Pen E-PL7 is ideal for hobbyists, travelers, and vloggers who want a stylish, lightweight camera with solid image quality and user-friendly features. It’s especially great if you value a touchscreen and selfie-friendly design.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I found the Olympus Pen E-PL7 to be a reliable and enjoyable camera that balances form and function. If you’re looking for an entry-level mirrorless camera with a vintage look and modern features, this model is definitely worth considering. Just keep in mind its limitations in low light and video if those are your primary needs.
Author Profile
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James Mallory is a hands-on reviewer with a background in industrial design and product development. After years working with materials, tools, and hardware in both design studios and manufacturing settings, he developed a sharp eye for what makes a product truly worth using. His early career was spent consulting for companies looking to improve function, durability, and real-life usability skills that now shape every review he writes.
Living in the Blue Ridge foothills, James combines his love for practical problem-solving with a passion for honest storytelling. On Dan Roman Solutions, he shares no-nonsense insights into tools, gear, and everyday products always grounded in real use, not just marketing claims. Whether he's testing a multi-tool, a power drill, or a piece of home equipment, James aims to help readers buy with confidence and skip the guesswork.
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