The OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E30 is an exceptional digital SLR camera, designed for both budding photographers and seasoned professionals. With its robust 12.3-megapixel Live MOS sensor, it delivers stunning image quality suitable for photo-quality prints up to 30 x 40 inches. This body-only camera opens up a world of creativity, as lenses are sold separately, allowing users to select the perfect lens for their photography needs.

One of the standout features of the E-30 is its 6 Art Filters, which enable photographers to achieve effects that typically require special lenses or complex processing techniques. Whether you want to emulate the look of grainy black-and-white film or create vibrant, exaggerated colors, the E-30 has you covered. These filters provide an innovative way to express one’s artistic vision directly through the camera.

The camera is equipped with a 270-degree swivel 2.7-inch HyperCrystal II LCD. This feature enhances usability, particularly when composing shots from challenging angles. Additionally, the Autofocus Live View with Face Detection ensures that your subjects are always in sharp focus, making it ideal for capturing portraits and candid moments.

For those who require versatility in their workflow, the E-30 comes with a dual card slot. It is compatible with UDMA-Type I, Type II, MicroDrive, and xD Media Cards (note that these cards are not included). This flexibility allows photographers to manage their storage efficiently and ensure they never miss a moment.

Positioned as a mid-level model within the Olympus E-System lineup, the E-30 is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their photography skills. It bridges the gap between entry-level DSLRs and professional-grade cameras, providing a comprehensive set of features that appeal to a wide range of users.

According to a review from dpreview.com, the E-30 is highly recommended and fills a much-needed niche in the Olympus E-Series lineup. It features an impressive array of enhancements over its predecessors, including a higher pixel count, a larger LCD screen, and an improved contrast-detect autofocus system. Furthermore, novel features like a digital spirit level, multiple exposure capabilities, and various aspect ratio options set it apart in a competitive market.

While it may lack the weather sealing of the E-3, the E-30 compensates with its lightweight design and user-friendly interface. It competes directly with other high-end DSLRs such as the Nikon D300, Canon EOS 40D/50D, Sony Alpha 700, and Pentax K20D. The E-30’s compelling feature set, combined with its ergonomic design, makes it a strong contender in the digital SLR space.

When comparing the E-30 to the E-3, there are several key differences to note. While both cameras offer a very similar feature set, the E-30 has been upgraded with a new 12MP LiveMOS sensor, a brighter and larger LCD screen, and various creative modes including Art Filters and multiple exposure options. These enhancements provide photographers with the tools they need to push their creative boundaries.

The body of the E-30 is constructed from glass fiber reinforced plastic, making it lighter than the E-3’s magnesium alloy body. Although it has a slightly smaller optical viewfinder, the improved viewfinder size and brightness will be a significant upgrade for those transitioning from entry-level models. Moreover, the E-30 features AF fine-tuning for up to 20 lenses, ensuring precise focus for a variety of shooting scenarios.

In conclusion, the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E30 12.3MP Digital SLR camera stands out due to its combination of quality, creativity, and user-friendly features. Whether you’re capturing stunning landscapes, portraits, or artistic shots, the E-30 empowers you to explore and express your photographic talents.