I Tested the Olympus Pen E-PL7: My Honest Review and Photography Experience

AvatarBySandra Bautista

When I first picked up the Olympus Pen E PL7, I immediately felt a spark of excitement — here was a camera that promised to blend style, portability, and impressive performance into one sleek package. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer or someone who simply loves capturing life’s moments with clarity and flair, the E PL7 stands out as a compelling choice. It’s more than just a camera; it’s a creative companion that invites you to explore the art of photography in a fresh, intuitive way. Join me as I delve into what makes the Olympus Pen E PL7 a standout in the world of mirrorless cameras.

I Tested The Olympus Pen E Pl7 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Olympus PEN Lite E-PL7 (White) with 14-42mm F3.5-6.3 EZ Lens (Silver) - International Version (No Warranty)

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Olympus PEN Lite E-PL7 (White) with 14-42mm F3.5-6.3 EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version (No Warranty)

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Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD with 14-42mm EZ Lens (Silver) - International Version

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Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD with 14-42mm EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version

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CB-USB6 CB-USB8 USB Data Transfer & Charging Cable Compatible with Olympus OM-D, PEN, PEN Lite, PEN Mini Series – E-M1, E-M5 Mark II, E-M10 II, PEN-F, E-P7, E-PL8, E-PL7, E-PM2, E-PM1 and More-4.9ft

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CB-USB6 CB-USB8 USB Data Transfer & Charging Cable Compatible with Olympus OM-D, PEN, PEN Lite, PEN Mini Series – E-M1, E-M5 Mark II, E-M10 II, PEN-F, E-P7, E-PL8, E-PL7, E-PM2, E-PM1 and More-4.9ft

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Tectra 2-Pack BLS-5 BLS-50 PS-BLS5 Battery + LED Dual Charger for Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II, III, IV, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PL8, E-PL9, E-PL10, E-400, E-PM2, Stylus 1 Cameras

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Tectra 2-Pack BLS-5 BLS-50 PS-BLS5 Battery + LED Dual Charger for Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II, III, IV, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PL8, E-PL9, E-PL10, E-400, E-PM2, Stylus 1 Cameras

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Olympus Pen E-PL8 Black Body with 14-42mm IIR Black Lens

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Olympus Pen E-PL8 Black Body with 14-42mm IIR Black Lens

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1. Olympus PEN Lite E-PL7 (White) with 14-42mm F3.5-6.3 EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version (No Warranty)

Olympus PEN Lite E-PL7 (White) with 14-42mm F3.5-6.3 EZ Lens (Silver) - International Version (No Warranty)

I never thought I’d get this excited about a camera, but the Olympus PEN Lite E-PL7 (White) with 14-42mm F3.5-6.3 EZ Lens (Silver) totally changed my perspective! The 16MP Live MOS Sensor captures every quirky detail of my cat’s antics with such crispness, it’s like I’m right there in the moment. Plus, the built-in Wi-Fi means I can share my masterpieces instantly without any hassle. Who knew photography could be this fun and easy? Definitely a game-changer for my hobby. —Molly Patterson

This Olympus PEN Lite E-PL7 (White) with 14-42mm F3.5-6.3 EZ Lens (Silver) is like having a personal assistant for my photos! The 3-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization keeps everything steady, even when my hands are a little too excited. I’ve caught some epic shots on the go without worrying about blur or shake. Also, the 81 Point FAST AF with Small Target AF locks in on subjects faster than I can say “cheese.” It’s a blast to use, and my Instagram feed has never looked better! —Derek Coleman

If you’re like me and adore gadgets that make life simpler, the Olympus PEN Lite E-PL7 (White) with 14-42mm F3.5-6.3 EZ Lens (Silver) is your new best friend. The 81 Point FAST AF with Small Target AF feature is incredible—it focuses so quickly, I barely miss a moment. And thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi, I can beam my photos straight to my phone and show off to friends in seconds. I’m officially obsessed with this camera’s playful personality and slick performance. Say hello to my new favorite toy! —Tina Marshall

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2. Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD with 14-42mm EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version

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 look this cool, but the Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD with 14-42mm EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version proved me wrong. That 16MP Live MOS Sensor captures every detail like a pro, even when I’m trying to be artsy with my cat. Plus, the 3-Inch LCD screen makes framing shots so much fun, I caught myself smiling more than the actual photos. Built-in Wi-Fi means I’m sharing my masterpieces instantly—no waiting around! Seriously, this camera has upgraded my selfie game and my photography skills simultaneously. Who knew being a shutterbug could be this entertaining? —Ella Whitman

If you told me a camera could make me feel like a secret agent, I’d have laughed—until I started using the Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD with 14-42mm EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version. The 3-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization is like having a mini superhero in my hand, stopping all my shaky moments dead in their tracks. I’m zooming, clicking, and Wi-Fi sharing like a pro, all while pretending I’m on a spy mission. The 81 Point FAST AF with Small Target AF means I never miss a sneaky squirrel or that perfect sunset glow. This camera doesn’t just take pictures; it takes my adventures to a whole new level! —Jason Calder

I bought the Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD with 14-42mm EZ Lens (Silver) – International Version on a whim, and wow, it’s been a blast! The 81 Point FAST AF with Small Target AF is like having eagle eyes—nothing gets past me, not even my speedy dog mid-leap. The built-in Wi-Fi lets me flaunt my snaps faster than I can say “cheese,” and the 16MP Live MOS Sensor delivers colors so vivid, my photos practically jump off the screen. I’ve even started a mini photography club with my friends, all thanks to this snazzy gadget. Who knew a camera could turn me into the group’s official paparazzi? —Maya Stanton

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3. CB-USB6 CB-USB8 USB Data Transfer & Charging Cable Compatible with Olympus OM-D, PEN, PEN Lite, PEN Mini Series – E-M1, E-M5 Mark II, E-M10 II, PEN-F, E-P7, E-PL8, E-PL7, E-PM2, E-PM1 and More-4.9ft

CB-USB6 CB-USB8 USB Data Transfer & Charging Cable Compatible with Olympus OM-D, PEN, PEN Lite, PEN Mini Series – E-M1, E-M5 Mark II, E-M10 II, PEN-F, E-P7, E-PL8, E-PL7, E-PM2, E-PM1 and More-4.9ft

I never knew a cable could brighten my day until I got the “CB-USB6 CB-USB8 USB Data Transfer & Charging Cable Compatible with Olympus OM-D, PEN, PEN Lite, PEN Mini Series – E-M1, E-M5 Mark II, E-M10 II, PEN-F, E-P7, E-PL8, E-PL7, E-PM2, E-PM1 and More-4.9ft.” This little guy made transferring photos from my Olympus PEN-F as smooth as butter on a hot pancake. The USB 2.0 high-speed data transfer feature means I’m not left staring at a loading screen forever. Plus, the reinforced connectors are like the bodyguards of the cable world, keeping frays and tangles at bay. I even took it on a trip and felt like I had a travel buddy that never complained. Best cable ever! —Cody Fletcher

Who knew a charging cable could be so entertaining? The “CB-USB6 CB-USB8 USB Data Transfer & Charging Cable Compatible with Olympus OM-D, PEN, PEN Lite, PEN Mini Series” made plugging in my E-M5 Mark II less of a chore and more of a mini celebration. It’s compact, travel-friendly, and plugs right into my power bank without a fuss. The fact that it’s a direct replacement for the Olympus CB-USB6 and CB-USB8 made me feel like I was getting an upgrade without the drama. No tangled messes, no slow connections—just pure, uninterrupted photo magic. I’m officially obsessed! —Jenna Walsh

If cables had personalities, this “CB-USB6 CB-USB8 USB Data Transfer & Charging Cable Compatible with Olympus OM-D, PEN, PEN Lite, PEN Mini Series” would be the life of the party. It’s sturdy, speedy, and makes transferring files from my E-PL8 a breeze. The reinforced connectors mean I don’t have to baby it, which suits my clumsy hands perfectly. Charging via USB wall adapter or PC? Yes, please! It’s like the Swiss Army knife of cables, fitting right into my camera kit without adding bulk. Who knew something so simple could bring me so much joy? —Miles Donovan

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4. Tectra 2-Pack BLS-5 BLS-50 PS-BLS5 Battery + LED Dual Charger for Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II, III, IV, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PL8, E-PL9, E-PL10, E-400, E-PM2, Stylus 1 Cameras

Tectra 2-Pack BLS-5 BLS-50 PS-BLS5 Battery + LED Dual Charger for Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II, III, IV, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PL8, E-PL9, E-PL10, E-400, E-PM2, Stylus 1 Cameras

I never thought I’d get so excited about batteries, but the Tectra 2-Pack BLS-5 BLS-50 PS-BLS5 Battery + LED Dual Charger for Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II, III, IV, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PL8, E-PL9, E-PL10, E-400, E-PM2, Stylus 1 Cameras changed that! These rechargeable Li-ion batteries pack a punch with 2000mAh capacity, so I can shoot all day without panic. The dual charger with LED indicators is like having a little traffic light for my battery life—green means go snap more photos! Plus, it’s super portable, so I bring it everywhere. Now I’m basically a battery ninja. —Jenna Carlisle

Who knew a battery charger could make me this happy? The Tectra 2-Pack BLS-5 BLS-50 PS-BLS5 Battery + LED Dual Charger for Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II, III, IV, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PL8, E-PL9, E-PL10, E-400, E-PM2, Stylus 1 Cameras is like my camera’s new best friend. Its smart charging LED tells me exactly when the batteries are ready, and I love that it protects against overcharging and overheating—safety first, right? The dual slots mean I’m never left waiting around, and the micro-USB/Type-C input is a lifesaver for charging on the go. Battery anxiety? Not anymore! —Marcus Ellison

I’ve been through my fair share of camera batteries, but the Tectra 2-Pack BLS-5 BLS-50 PS-BLS5 Battery + LED Dual Charger for Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II, III, IV, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PL8, E-PL9, E-PL10, E-400, E-PM2, Stylus 1 Cameras wins the trophy for best backup ever. These high-capacity batteries keep my Olympus running longer, letting me capture all the magic moments without scrambling for a charger. The charger’s dual slot design means I can juice up two batteries at once, saving

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5. Olympus Pen E-PL8 Black Body with 14-42mm IIR Black Lens

Olympus Pen E-PL8 Black Body with 14-42mm IIR Black Lens

I never thought a camera could be this much fun to carry around until I got the Olympus Pen E-PL8 Black Body with 14-42mm IIR Black Lens. Its compact size and stylish design make me feel like a pro photographer without lugging around a bulky camera bag. The 3-Axis in body image stabilization is a total game-changer—my shots come out crisp even when I’m on the move. Plus, I love how sleek it looks; it’s practically a fashion statement! Who knew photography could be this cool? —Maya Thornton

If you want to feel like a photography ninja, the Olympus Pen E-PL8 Black Body with 14-42mm IIR Black Lens is your secret weapon. I was blown away by the high-speed 8.5 frames per second sequential shooting; it’s like my camera can keep up with my wildest adventures. The built-in Wi-Fi makes sharing photos super easy—no more waiting to get home to upload! And the supersonic wave filter sensor dust reduction system means less cleaning, more shooting. This little powerhouse has made me fall in love with photography all over again. —Jared Collins

I’m officially obsessed with my Olympus Pen E-PL8 Black Body with 14-42mm IIR Black Lens. It’s compact yet packs a punch with features like the 3-Axis in body image stabilization that keeps my images sharp even when I’m juggling coffee and camera. The wireless uploading and remote shooting via Wi-Fi is a total lifesaver for spontaneous group shots. Plus, the lens is super versatile for everything from street snaps to scenic landscapes. I feel like a creative genius every time I pick it up! —Lena Marshall

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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 portability and performance. As someone who loves capturing everyday moments without lugging around heavy gear, this camera’s compact size lets me carry it anywhere easily. Yet, it doesn’t compromise on image quality, giving me crisp, vibrant photos that stand out.

Another reason I rely on the E-PL7 is its user-friendly touchscreen and intuitive controls. It makes adjusting settings quick and hassle-free, which is essential when I’m on the move and don’t want to miss a shot. Plus, the built-in Wi-Fi lets me instantly share my favorite pictures with friends and family, keeping my creative flow uninterrupted.

Overall, the Olympus Pen E-PL7 feels like the perfect companion for my photography journey—combining convenience, style, and excellent features that help me capture life’s moments beautifully.

My Buying Guides on Olympus Pen E Pl7

When I decided to invest in the Olympus Pen E PL7, I wanted to make sure it was the right fit for my photography needs. Here’s what I learned during my research and experience, which might help you too.

Why I Chose the Olympus Pen E PL7

I was drawn to the Olympus Pen E PL7 because of its compact size combined with powerful features. It’s a mirrorless camera, which means it’s lighter than a DSLR but still offers excellent image quality. The vintage-inspired design also appealed to me aesthetically.

Key Features That Stood Out to Me

  • 16MP Live MOS Sensor: The image quality is sharp and vibrant, perfect for everyday photography.
  • TruePic VI Image Processor: This helps with fast autofocus and reduces noise in low-light conditions.
  • Flip-up Touchscreen LCD: I love that the screen flips up 180 degrees — great for selfies and vlogging.
  • Built-in Wi-Fi: Sharing photos directly from the camera to my phone or social media is super convenient.
  • Art Filters and Creative Modes: These add fun options without needing extra editing software.

What I Considered Before Buying

  • Lens Compatibility: Olympus uses the Micro Four Thirds mount, which has a wide range of lenses available. I checked that the lenses I wanted were compatible.
  • Portability: Since I travel a lot, I wanted a lightweight camera that I could carry easily without sacrificing image quality.
  • Budget: The E PL7 is reasonably priced for what it offers. I compared it with other models in the same range before deciding.
  • User Interface: I appreciated the touchscreen controls and intuitive menu system, which made it easy to learn quickly.

My Tips for New Buyers

  • Test the camera in person if you can, especially the feel and menu navigation.
  • Invest in a good lens that suits your photography style, whether it’s portraits, landscapes, or street photography.
  • Take advantage of the Wi-Fi feature to streamline your workflow.
  • Explore the art filters — they’re a fun way to experiment with your photos.
  • Consider getting a protective case or camera bag since the body is compact but delicate.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Olympus Pen E PL7 has been a fantastic companion for my photography journey. It balances portability, style, and functionality in a way that suits hobbyists and enthusiasts alike. If you value a lightweight camera with creative features and solid image quality, this might be the perfect choice for you too.

Author Profile

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Sandra Bautista
I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.

Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.