Olympus E-300 vs Panasonic Lumix FZ47: A Hands-On Comparison from an Experienced Eye

Having spent more than 15 years evaluating cameras across genres and price points, it’s fascinating to delve into two very different beasts: the Olympus E-300, a mid-size DSLR from 2005, and the Panasonic Lumix FZ47, a 2011 “bridge” camera with an enormous fixed superzoom lens. At first glance, they almost seem apples and oranges - but for a discerning photographer, understanding their technical strengths and real-world performance nuances is key to picking the right tool.

In this detailed comparison, I’ll unravel their specs, build, and image quality using my extensive testing methods - covering all photography styles from portraits and wildlife to landscapes and video. Whether you’re a hobbyist looking for versatility or a professional craving precision, by the end you’ll know which one suits your craft and budget best.

Size, Ergonomics & Handling: Feel the Difference

The first thing I noticed handling both cameras side-by-side was the physical size and weight discrepancy. The Olympus E-300 carries a heftier mid-size DSLR body, while the Panasonic FZ47 is slightly smaller but notably chunkier due to its superzoom lens.

The E-300’s dimensions (147 x 85 x 64 mm) and weight (~624 g) grant it a substantial, solid grip that many DSLR enthusiasts appreciate for stability - especially when pairing with heavier glass. In contrast, the FZ47’s more compact 120 x 80 x 92 mm size and lighter 498 g feel portable yet accommodating for its large 24–600 mm-equivalent lens.

Control layouts differ significantly as well, revealed from a top-down perspective:

The E-300 offers classic DSLR ergonomics - dedicated dials for shutter speed and aperture priority, along with customizable buttons - though the absence of illuminated buttons means these controls aren’t as convenient in low light. The FZ47, with its bridge camera design, trades some manual control for user-friendliness: fewer physical dials but a logical menu system accessible via the rear LCD.

For photographers who value tactile, quick-access controls without diving into menus, the E-300 wins. But if you’re after a lighter rig with a straightforward handling approach - great for travel or casual shooting - the FZ47 fits the bill.

Sensor Technology & Image Quality: Size and Resolution Matter

Let’s dig into the heart of imaging - the sensor. Here, the two cameras differ drastically.

The Olympus E-300 boasts a Four Thirds sized CCD sensor measuring 17.3 x 13 mm, capturing images at 8 megapixels (3264 x 2448 px). Back in 2005, this was a solid sensor size delivering decent image quality with respectable color depth and tonality.

In contrast, the Panasonic FZ47’s sensor is a tiny 1/2.3-inch CCD measuring only 6.08 x 4.56 mm yet crams in 12 megapixels (4000 x 3000 px). The small sensor leads to higher noise levels and limited dynamic range compared to the E-300’s substantially larger surface area.

From my lab and field tests, the E-300's Four Thirds sensor provides cleaner skin tones, richer detail, and stronger performance in shadows and highlights - key for portrait and landscape photographers demanding fidelity and subtle gradations. The FZ47, while impressive for a bridge camera, exhibits more noise at ISO 400 and above, which is expected with such a small sensor.

However, the FZ47 compensates with an extensive 24x optical zoom (equivalent to 25–600 mm) allowing unparalleled reach for distant subjects like wildlife or sports without changing lenses - something the E-300 can’t match without investing in heavy telephoto glass.

Live View, Viewfinders, and LCD Screens: Framing your shot

Although the E-300 offers a classic optical pentamirror viewfinder, there’s no live view or electronic assist, meaning composing is a traditional DSLR experience. The viewfinder lacks coverage and magnification data, indicating a fairly basic optical experience.

The FZ47 sports an electronic viewfinder providing 100% frame coverage, instantly useful for precise composition and reviewing exposure settings before the shot. Both cameras feature fixed LCD screens, but the FZ47’s 3-inch, 460k-dot resolution display far outshines the E-300’s tiny 1.8-inch, low-resolution 134k-dot screen.

From practical shooting, I find the FZ47’s screen much easier for reviewing images in the field and navigating menus - critical for quickly addressing settings changes when shooting fast-moving subjects or during travel.

Autofocus Performance: Speed vs. Precision

When it comes to focus, the Olympus E-300 relies on a 3-point phase-detection autofocus system, offering single and continuous AF modes but no face or eye detection.

The Panasonic FZ47 employs contrast-detection AF with 23 selectable points including center-weighted and face detection capabilities - a plus when capturing portraits or street scenes with moving subjects.

In controlled tests, the Olympus’s phase-detection system felt a tad snappier in good light, particularly for stationary subjects or manual focus precision. But in live shooting, the FZ47’s intelligent tracking and face detection improved keeper rates when subjects moved unpredictably - ideal for casual wildlife, street, and family photography.

Both cameras have continuous autofocus during burst mode: 3 fps on the E-300, 4 fps on the FZ47. While neither competes with modern sports cameras, the FZ47 performs marginally better for action sequences.

Burst Shooting and Buffering: Chasing the Moment

For sports and wildlife shots, burst rate can make or break the shot. The E-300 captures 3 frames per second continuously - respectable for the era and sensor size. However, its small buffer means sustained bursts are limited to a handful before slowing.

The FZ47, with 4 fps burst, edges out the E-300 slightly and benefits from its smaller files and efficient processor, allowing longer bursts. While neither is ideal for professional sports, the FZ47’s marginally better burst and tracking autofocus may appeal to photographers occasionally photographing faster action outdoors.

Secondary Features: Stabilization and Flash

A huge advantage the FZ47 holds is optical image stabilization built into its lens system. This steady shot tech compensates for handshake, critical at the long end of its zoom where camera shake is amplified.

The E-300 has no in-body or lens stabilization system, so you’ll rely on tripods or stabilized lenses (which are few in Four Thirds mounts and costly). For handheld shooting in low light or when zoomed in, this makes the FZ47 the clear winner.

Both cameras have built-in flashes, but the E-300 supports external flashes - giving more creative power to serious photographers. The FZ47’s flash range extends to 9.5 meters but cannot be augmented by off-camera units.

Video Capabilities: Moving Images Matter

The E-300 predates widespread video capture in DSLRs, offering none.

The FZ47, six years newer, features Full HD 1080p video at 30 fps with AVCHD format, an HDMI output port for playback, and built-in stereo audio - although there’s no microphone input for external mics, limiting audio quality customization.

If video is a key part of your creative output, the FZ47 is the natural choice here. Its autofocus during video is contrast-based, working reasonably well, though not silent or fully continuous in some modes.

Battery Life & Storage: A Consideration on the Go

The FZ47 boasts a substantial 400-shot battery life rating, using a proprietary battery pack, while the E-300’s battery life wasn’t specified but generally would last fewer shots per charge given its DSLR design and use of CompactFlash storage rather than SD cards.

The FZ47’s use of SD/SDHC/SDXC cards represents a more modern and accessible storage standard, whereas the E-300 feels a bit dated with CompactFlash (Type I or II) support only.

Performance Ratings at a Glance

After rigorous real-world and laboratory testing - evaluating image quality, autofocus, handling, features, and value - here are our comprehensive ratings:

Both cameras excel in different areas, so I’ve also broken down their genre-specific performance:

Photography Genres: Which Camera Excels Where?

Portrait Photography

The Olympus E-300’s larger sensor and support for interchangeable lenses lend it the advantage in portraits. The Four Thirds sensor delivers smoother skin tones and better depth of field control, especially with fast prime lenses. A DSLR’s optical viewfinder helps compose and refine face-focused shots manually.

The FZ47’s face detection autofocus aids beginners, but small sensor and fixed-lens limitations restrict strong bokeh separation and subtle tonal gradations.

Winner: Olympus E-300

Landscape Photography

Dynamic range and resolution are crucial here. The E-300’s larger sensor and 8MP resolution capture landscapes with faithful detail and highlight retention, rewarding you with files you can push in post-processing.

While the FZ47’s 12MP sensor offers higher resolution, its small size compromises dynamic range and noise control, resulting in less flexibility in tough lighting conditions.

Neither offers extensive weather sealing; however, the E-300’s DSLR body feels more robust and versatile, especially when paired with dedicated landscape lenses.

Winner: Olympus E-300

Wildlife Photography

Reach is king here. The Panasonic FZ47, with its 600mm superzoom lens, lets you frame distant animals without lugging hefty lenses. Optical stabilization further benefits handheld wildlife shooting.

However, autofocus tracking is modest, and image quality at long focal lengths depends heavily on good light.

The E-300 would require expensive telephoto lenses and sturdy tripods, making it less accessible for casual wildlife enthusiasts.

Winner: Panasonic FZ47

Sports Photography

Neither camera is a sports specialist, but the FZ47’s slightly faster continuous shooting and autofocus tracking offer a slight edge for casual sports photography. Smaller file sizes also speed workflow.

The E-300’s manual controls benefit experienced users, but its slower burst and limited AF points can struggle with fast-moving subjects.

Winner: Panasonic FZ47 (by a small margin)

Street Photography

The compactish size and less conspicuous design of the FZ47 make it friendlier for street shooters wanting to remain unobtrusive. Its electronic viewfinder and tilt-friendly LCD help in low-light urban scenarios.

The E-300’s DSLR appearance may attract unwanted attention, plus it lacks live view, potentially making quick candid setups slower.

Winner: Panasonic FZ47

Macro Photography

While neither camera is specialized for macro, the FZ47 offers a minimum focusing distance of 1cm - impressive for detailed close-up shots without extra equipment. The E-300 lacks a specified macro range and demands specialized lenses and possibly extension tubes for serious macro work.

Winner: Panasonic FZ47

Night and Astro Photography

Low noise and long exposures are essential here. The E-300 shines with a larger sensor handling ISO 400 better and manual exposure modes including shutter priority and bulb mode with up to 60s shutter speed.

The FZ47’s maximum shutter of 2 seconds limits long exposure creativity. The E-300’s lack of built-in stabilization means a tripod is mandatory.

Winner: Olympus E-300

Video

The FZ47 is a clear winner with its Full HD video, autofocus during recording, and HDMI output. The E-300 doesn’t shoot video at all.

Winner: Panasonic FZ47

Travel Photography

The FZ47’s all-in-one zoom and compact size mean you can travel lighter without switching lenses. Optical stabilization assists in varied light conditions, and longer battery life is ideal in the field.

E-300’s size and interchangeable lens needs make it heavier and bulkier but deliver higher image quality if you plan to shoot more stationarily.

Winner: Panasonic FZ47

Professional Workflows

For professional use, RAW support and lens versatility are key. The E-300 supports RAW files and has a decent selection of lenses (45 Four Thirds options). Its USB 1.0 connection is dated but workable with tethering systems.

FZ47 lacks RAW support and relies on JPEG compression, hindering post-processing flexibility.

Winner: Olympus E-300

Sample Images: Seeing is Believing

Here are side-by-side sample images taken with both cameras, illustrating how sensor size and lens choice impact image quality:

Olympus E 300 screen back Panasonic FZ47 front Panasonic FZ47 screen back

Note how the Olympus files deliver more nuanced tonality and less noise at higher ISO, while the Panasonic images excel in framing flexibility.

Final Thoughts: Which Should You Choose?

Despite differing generation gaps and camera classes, the Olympus E-300 and Panasonic FZ47 offer compelling options for distinct kinds of photographers.

• Choose the Olympus E-300 if you prioritize image quality, interchangeable lenses, manual control, and plan to focus on portraits, landscapes, or professional work. Its Four Thirds sensor, classic DSLR handling, and RAW support offer a robust platform for growth - even if it dates back to the mid-2000s.

• Pick the Panasonic FZ47 if versatility, portability, and video capability top your list - especially for travel, wildlife, street photography, and casual shooting. Its impressive zoom, optical stabilization, intuitive autofocus, and HD video make it a compelling, budget-friendly all-rounder.

Both are interesting cameras in their own right, but knowing your primary photography style and workflow needs will help you make the best choice.

A Final Look at the Numbers - Specs at a Glance

I hope this deep dive and hands-on comparison clarifies which of these unique cameras matches your photographic ambitions. For my fellow enthusiasts keen on proper image quality and lens choice, the Olympus E-300 remains a solid vintage pick. But if convenience, zoom versatility, and video are your playgrounds, the Panasonic FZ47 is a smart, cost-effective way forward.

Happy shooting - and may your next camera be the perfect partner in your creative journey!