David Bailey launches new Olympus Digital PEN Camera

The Sean Connery look-a-like was on hand to parade around the Jessops flagship store in London to promote the new camera which positions itself uniquely between a compact and an SLR.

Using the original design by Yoshihisa Maitani from 1959 the PEN has a classic retro feel combined with the performance of a D-SLR with the flexibility of interchangeable lenses. Mirror-less technology however means that the PEN is the same size as a compact.

The original plan for the PEN 50 years ago was to have the camera be as easy to use as a pen but also deliver excellent performance. The new EP-1 is designed for the same purpose.

The 12.3 Megapixel sensor size is equivalent to a four-thirds camera, and comes in two colours – white and silver. HD Video capture with stereo sound is also available as well as multiple art filters for increased flexibility.

This camera could be the perfect step up for those used to using compacts. It has no viewfinder, relying on a live view screen and uses SD cards.

A number of different lenses can be attached to the PEN by purchasing a separate adapter, while a flash can be attached to the hotshoe at the top of the camera. For those missing the viewfinder, a detachable one can also be purchased separately.

For a full specification list and to find out more visit the Olympus website, here.