Olympus Reveals the Entry-Level PEN E-PL8, and It’s All About the Selfies

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In addition to the more exciting updates this week, Olympus also debuted their newest entry-level mirrorless interchangeable lens camera: the PEN E-PL8.

Whenever the word “selfie” comes up in the press release headline (and first sentence) you know you’re in for an entry-level camera announcement, and Olympus was kind enough to fire off both of those warning shots.

Inside, you’ll be hard-pressed to find much difference between the it and the PEN E-PL7 that preceded it. The 16MP Live MOS sensor, TruePic VII processor, 3-axis in-body image stabilization, and 3.0-inch 1.04M-dot flip-touch LCD are all the same. What the camera got was basically an aesthetic redesign, including a new grip and a fresh top plate.

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“The Olympus PEN E-PL8’s distinctive look is highlighted by modern, rounded body lines, an embossed Olympus PEN logo, intricately detailed metal dials, and premium metal and leather-grained finishes that perfectly complement each color option,” writes Olympus. “Each color palette is tailored to suit the user’s personal style, whether it is vintage, elegant and sophisticated, traditional or relaxed.”

Beyond looks, Olympus is mainly touting the camera as a great selfie taker.

The screen flips all the way down, and when it does it’ll automatically activate “Selfie” mode in which the display is mirrored and several selfie-centric options are displayed right on the touchscreen for easy access. If you have a power zoom attached, the camera will automatically zoom it back out in Selfie mode; and they’ve introduced a touch of lag into the shutter so you can shift your eyes from your finger back to the camera.

Here’s a closer look at the selfie-tastic PEN E-PL8:

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The entry-level E-PL8 will be available in black, brown, and white starting in October. MSRP is $550 for the body-only, or $650 if you want to get the camera in a kit with the 14–42mm f/3.5-5.6 IIR lens.