EP-1 or EP-2 if you have the money for either??

It really depends on how much you value a viewfinder. The EVF on the E-P2 is probably the best on m4/3 so far and is sharp and clear. I find it indispensable, but if you can live without it, then the E-P1 is fine.

 

I don't find the EVF indispensable and would therefore choose the E-P1 (I like the silver retro design also).
I would only upgrade if a proper EVF was built in..

 

I'd recommend the E-P1 + mZD 14-42 kit, and use the cash you saved to add the Lumix 20mm f1.7

The EVF is nice, but only really essential if you're long sighted and need an eye level viewfinder with diopter adjustment imho.

Cheers

Brian

 

Any idea how much is a new unused secondhand 14 42 lens worth?

It seems that quite a few people, once they have the 20mm 1.7 are just not using the kit zoom, (no matter how good), and then aspire to the long reach zoom

 

Hi Bill, I have no idea... I would definitely keep and carry the mZD 14-42 for the close focusing macro capability, and flexibility of having a collapsible zoom lens.

E-P1 + mZD 14-42
1/1250s f/6.3 at 42.0mm iso400
View attachment 141097

Cheers

Brian

 

will the 45 200 do that

 

I don't know, but it would be a heck of a lot bulkier.

Cheers

Brian

 

Unless money is no object I would take Brians advice (although I didn't lol)

I got the EP2 and although haven't had chance to get out much I haven't as of yet used the viewfinder and found the LCD more than adequate. I did take Brians advice and got the Panny 1.7, it is on my EP2 all of the time so far.


So if I was buying again I would more than likely get the EP1 and put the money saved in glass

 

kstevieh, I'm not sure if you have actually had a chance to hold each of these cameras in your hand and try them out in a store or not? For me it made a big difference to have the EVF, granted I wear glasses (for everything, what we call "progressive lenses" here in the USA). If you can, go try them both out for yourself. You can always wait on adding more lenses, if you found you'd prefer the EVF with the E-P2.

I want to add that although I hadn't used a camera with a view finder in a very long time (over 10 years), I found that the E-P2 with its EVF was a completely natural move. I also like having the option of using the camera both with and without, too, though thus far 99% of the time it's been with the EVF. Different strokes for different folks and all that.

 

I sold one for £145 on ebay.

 

Just to clarify - my advice is to someone on a tight budget - if you can afford the E-P1deluxe (aka the E-P2) then by all means treat yourself.

Cheers

Brian

 

I would agree with Brian here - if budget is a concern, then the EP1 is a great camera. I sold mine to get the EP2 (but my better half leaves me on a pretty free budget for my toys as long as I continue to work) primarily to get the EVF.
Having said that - if you like using older MF lenses, or stuff like a Lensbaby, then the EVF to me is much easier to manual focus than using the LCD.
Steve

 

Steve - how does the VF1 compare with the EVF on the EP-2

The VF 1 is optical isn't it - how does that work? - does it have "bright lines" like RF view finders - I am looking to buy an EP-1 body but I do want a viewfinder

 

I have to agree with all... I had the GF1 and EP1 and personally I played with the EVF on the EP2 and was hooked... than again I shoot more with legacy lenses and I just can't get into focusing with the LCD.. Just me..

 

Bill, exactly. It's a old school rangefinder add-on device. It has brightlines for the pancake's field of view.
Is it enough? I don't know. It depends on your style of shooting.
But it's a must to shoot comfortable and precise when you want to adapt manual focus lenses via adapter.
Another advantage is the more stable position with the contact to the forehead. Plus the IS in-camera you need no Leica Noctilux.... 

If you have at the moment a back-screen camera, then just use this screen exclusively for a month or so and decide......

For me the upgrade from the EP-1 was ok, a silver EP-1/EV1 sits on the shelf and must go....

 

How much do you want for your EP1???

I'm shooting Formula one in a few months... And as an experiment I'm going to just use the EP2 with a 180 2.8 Zeiss lens and wanted a second body to use a wide angle..

This will only be for Practice day as I can't afford to miss a shot during the race...

 

I only have the EP2 and I am more than happy with it and my 2 lenses - 14-42 and 17.

The EVF is exceptional!

 

Peter, Du Altes Haus!*
Dir noch ein "Erfolgreiches & Gesundes 2010!" Bernd
(Auch mit Pen2)

* Long time fellow from the Leica forum...