Olympus E-1

After a hiatus of several years, I decided to take up photography again. I spent almost a year reading reviews and handling several 'prosumer' DSLRs. Because of the build quality and optical quality of the lenses, I decided on the Olympus E-System. I started out with the E-300 - I didn't appreciate the all plastic construction of the E-500. I was so impressed with the E-300 two lens kit I went on to purchase six more lenses and recently an E-1 body. The E-1 handles superbly; in my opinion every control is where it should be located. The overall balance and feel is excellent. Any concerns that I may have had about resolution, 5 mega-pixels as opposed to E-300������s 8 mega-pixels, vanished after returning from my first ������field trip������ with the E-1. The mid-range or prosumer lenses ������ my favorite is the 50-200mm ������ have a quality that can be compared to any lens that I have used from any one of a number of camera makers. The depth and richness of color that this combination produces is reminiscent of my Leica rangefinder film cameras. There is a subtle ������softness������, not an out-of-focus softness, but a lack of the harsh ������photocopy������ look. The images are sharp with good contrast having a natural look and feel. All-in-all with the E-1������s excellent construction and bargain-basement prices for the body these days this camera is an excellent buy.