Olympus E-P2 vs Panasonic S1H: A Tale of Two Mirrorless Cameras Across a Decade

When the Olympus PEN E-P2 first hit the shelves in 2010, it embodied the promise of mirrorless cameras: compact size, solid image quality, and an approachable design for enthusiasts transitioning from point-and-shoots or DSLRs. Nearly a decade later, the Panasonic Lumix S1H launched in 2019 as a full-frame professional powerhouse, aimed squarely at hybrid shooters who demand video and stills in one impeccably built body.

Comparing these two cameras might seem like pitting a sprightly jazz pianist against a full symphony orchestra. Yet, their differences tell us volumes about how mirrorless technology has evolved - from sensor sizes and autofocus systems to ergonomics and video capabilities.

As someone who has personally tested thousands of cameras across genres, I want to share a practical, experience-driven comparison between the Olympus E-P2 and Panasonic S1H that goes beyond specs sheets. Whether you're budget-conscious, video-centric, or simply curious about photographic tool evolution, this article will unpack everything you need to know to make an informed choice today.

First Impressions and Ergonomics: Size Isn’t Always Just a Number

At first glance, the Olympus E-P2 and Panasonic S1H couldn’t be more different physically. The E-P2 is a compact, rangefinder-style mirrorless body - small and lightweight at just 355 grams and measuring approximately 121x70x36mm. Contrast that with the hefty, SLR-style S1H, which weighs in at a hefty 1052 grams and measures a substantial 151x114x110mm.

I recall using the E-P2 for street and travel photography when lugging around a heavy DSLR was simply a no-go. Its modest dimensions meant it could easily slip into a jacket pocket or a small bag. Moreover, its subtle styling and understated color palette helped with discretion on the street.

The S1H, on the other hand, feels robust and purpose-built for heavy professional use. Its size allows for extensive manual controls, rugged dials, and a solid grip that is reassuring during long shoots or in challenging environments. However, the heft means it can quickly become a strain during all-day handheld shooting without a tripod.

For photographers valuing portability above all, the E-P2 might still have nostalgic appeal. But if you prioritize tactile control and durability - especially under adverse conditions - the S1H’s SLR-type body is in a league of its own.

Body Design and Control Layout: A Jump in Usability

Digging beneath the shell, Olympus kept things simple with the E-P2, aiming for an intuitive user experience without overwhelming buttons. Its fixed 3-inch LCD has a resolution of 230k dots - serviceable, but nothing to write home about by today’s standards. It features no touchscreen or selfie-friendly articulation.

Flip to the S1H, and the difference is dramatic. Its 3.2-inch fully articulated touchscreen boasting 2.33 million dots is a revelation for composition from difficult angles or for vloggers who need to monitor themselves. The S1H has illuminated buttons for shooting in dim conditions, dedicated dials for shutter speed, aperture, and exposure compensation, plus dual SD card slots supporting UHS-II cards - making it clear Panasonic built this camera for professional workflow.

The E-P2’s lack of an integrated electronic viewfinder is felt, as using the rear LCD as your sole framing tool limits composition in bright light. Olympus offered an optional external EVF, but the S1H comes standard with a large, high-resolution EVF (5,760k dots) - a welcome upgrade especially for outdoor or action photography.

For photographers who prioritize quick access and comprehensive manual controls, the S1H's ergonomic advances are undeniable. Conversely, the E-P2's simplicity rewards those who prefer a minimalist, more casual shooting approach.

Sensor Quality and Image Resolution: Bridging the Generation Gap

Perhaps the most striking technical divergence lies in the sensors.

The E-P2 employs a 12MP Four Thirds CMOS sensor measuring 17.3x13mm, with a crop factor of 2.1x. This allowed Olympus to build a compact camera with excellent lens selection (107 Micro Four Thirds lenses available!). Although the sensor resolution is modest by current standards, it offered good color depth (21.5 bits DXO color depth) and dynamic range (10.4 EVs).

In contrast, the S1H packs a 24MP full-frame CMOS sensor (36x24mm), nearly four times the sensor area of the E-P2 and twice the resolution. Panasonic’s sensor has a native ISO range of 100-51200 expandable to 50-204800, enabling stunning low-light quality and usability under extreme conditions.

In real-world shooting scenarios, the S1H produces images with finer detail, better noise management, and a more appealing creamy bokeh due to the larger sensor and shallower depth of field possibilities.

That said - the E-P2’s sensor still holds charm for casual portrait and travel shots with its signature Micro Four Thirds depth with compatible lenses. Just keep in mind noise becomes a limiting factor beyond ISO 800-1600 on the E-P2.

Autofocus Systems: From Basic Contrast to Advanced Hybrid Tracking

Autofocus performance sometimes makes or breaks camera usability, especially for dynamic genres like sports or wildlife.

The E-P2 uses an 11-point contrast-detection autofocus system with face detection. While fine for static subjects and general photography, tracking moving subjects was a hit-or-miss affair, with only single or simple continuous AF modes available and no phase detection.

Panasonic’s S1H, meanwhile, offers 225 autofocus points along with depth-from-defocus contrast-detection and improved continuous autofocus tracking capabilities. It caters to fast-moving subjects and integrates face and eye detection for stills and video.

From personal trial, the S1H consistently nails focus lock and tracking with fast telephoto lenses - vital for sports and wildlife photographers who demand accuracy and speed. The E-P2 served well in quiet portrait or street environments but lags for fast-paced workflows.

Image Stabilization: Sensor-Based Steady Shots

Both cameras feature in-body image stabilization (IBIS) to counteract camera shake, which is especially helpful for handheld shooting or slower shutter speeds.

The E-P2 offers sensor-based stabilization but limited to 3-axis movement, whereas the S1H boasts a robust 5-axis IBIS system capable of stabilizing a broader range of motion with higher effectiveness.

For handheld macro, night, or telephoto photography, the S1H’s superior stabilization is immediately noticeable - it translates to sharper images without tripods or gimbals.

Display and Viewfinder – Crafting Your Visual Experience

Revisiting screens...

The E-P2’s 3-inch HyperCrystal LCD with anti-reflective coating helped with visibility but lacked touchscreen functionality or articulation - a design typical of early mirrorless cameras.

In contrast, the S1H’s fully articulating touchscreen, coupled with an electronic viewfinder with 0.78x magnification and 100% coverage, provides versatility for shooting at awkward angles or in bright conditions.

The option to use touch-to-focus on the S1H also accelerates workflow significantly, especially when paired with Panasonic’s advanced AF system.

Lens Ecosystem: Picking Your Perfect Glass

A camera without lenses is just a fancy paperweight, right?

The Olympus E-P2 benefits from one of the most extensive lens catalogs available for Micro Four Thirds systems, boasting over 100 lenses ranging from pancake primes to ultra-zoom teles. The 2.1x crop factor makes Tele zooms effectively longer but at a cost in low light and bokeh potential due to smaller sensor size.

The Panasonic S1H uses the Leica L mount, which is relatively young but growing, with about 30 native lenses as of now, many from Panasonic’s excellent Lumix S-series and third-party manufacturers. The full-frame format here allows for shallower depth of field, more versatile wide-angle lenses, and superior image quality.

If you want years of affordable, compact lens options with excellent image quality and don't mind crop factor compromises, the E-P2’s ecosystem shines. However, if you seek top-tier pro glass optimized for video and stills with full-frame performance - Panasonic’s L mount ecosystem is more compelling.

Video Capabilities: A Fundamental Shift

Olympus dabbling in video in 2010 was mostly a bonus rather than a feature - and the E-P2’s video specs reflect that modesty with 720p HD at 30 frames per second, no microphone input, no headphones, and limited codec options (Motion JPEG).

Fast forward to 2019, and the Panasonic S1H is a full-fledged cinema camera disguised as a mirrorless stills shooter:

• Resolutions up to 6K (5952×3988), internal recording up to 400 Mbps
• Multiple codecs including H.264 and H.265
• Full V-Log recording and color grading capabilities
• 4K 60p and slow-motion options
• Dedicated microphone and headphone ports
• In-body 5-axis image stabilization that works well in video modes
• Articulated display for video monitoring

The S1H’s design clearly targets hybrid shooters or professional filmmakers who cannot compromise in either video or stills.

For documentary, indie filmmaking, or serious video production, the E-P2 is a nostalgia piece, while the S1H is your go-to workhorse.

Battery Life and Storage: Endurance and Workflow Practicalities

When shooting on location, battery life and storage versatility matter.

The E-P2 gets around 300 shots per charge using its BLS-1 battery, fairly average for lightweight mirrorless cameras from its era. Storage is simple - one SD/SDHC card slot.

The S1H extends endurance to roughly 400 shots depending on usage. It supports dual SD card slots with fast UHS-II cards, offering overflow or simultaneous backup recording - a feature prized by pros.

Dual card slots are crucial on professional shoots where losing files is not an option, and the S1H’s inclusion reflects Panasonic’s emphasis on reliability and workflow integration.

Durability and Weather Sealing: Can You Trust Them in Harsh Conditions?

The Olympus E-P2 is not weather sealed - no dustproof, waterproof, or freezeproof rating here. Care when shooting outdoors in poor weather is essential.

The Panasonic S1H offers environmental sealing (dust and splash resistant), though not fully waterproof or shockproof. Nonetheless, the build is reassuringly tough and designed to withstand rugged conditions better.

If your photographic work demands robustness - landscape in unpredictable weather or documentary in challenging environments - the S1H's build quality will give you peace of mind.

Real-World Performance Across Photography Genres

Enough of the specs - how do these cameras behave in different photographic disciplines? Here’s an experience-based breakdown:

Portrait Photography

The E-P2’s 12MP sensor delivers pleasing skin tones with Micro Four Thirds lenses, especially primes that produce good bokeh despite sensor size limitations. Face detection autofocus helps capture smiles effortlessly, but eye detection is missing.

The S1H’s larger sensor and superior autofocus facilitate stunning portraits with shallow depth of field and critical eye focus in single and continuous modes. Its wider ISO range ensures portraits remain clean even indoors or in low light.

Landscape Photography

While the E-P2 provides respectable dynamic range (10.4 EV) and color depth, ultimate resolution and shadow recovery are constrained by smaller sensor size and 12MP resolution.

The S1H’s 24MP full-frame sensor shines here - wide dynamic range and impressive ISO latitude reveal detail in highlights and shadows alike. Weather sealing aids outdoor shooting in tricky conditions.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Here the S1H pulls miles ahead. Its faster 9 fps burst rate, advanced continuous AF, and larger buffer make it viable for action shooting. The E-P2’s 3 fps and contrast-detection AF struggle to capture fast animals or athletes sharply.

Street Photography

The E-P2’s compact, rangefinder-style body and relative discretion make it a charming street shooter with nippy responsiveness. The S1H’s bulk is a drawback in this genre, where agility and stealth matter.

Macro Photography

Both cameras depend heavily on lens choice. Olympus has many dedicated macro MFT lenses, and its 5-axis IBIS helps at close range. The S1H’s superior stabilization and sensor size help capture ultra-detailed macro shots but require heavier, sometimes pricier lenses.

Night and Astro Photography

The S1H excels with higher ISO capabilities, making it far better for astrophotography or long exposure night shoots. The E-P2 can struggle with noise beyond ISO 800.

Video and Hybrid Work

The S1H is a dream for videographers, with pro-grade features impossible on the E-P2. It also supports hybrid workflows seamlessly.

Travel Photography

E-P2’s portability and extensive lens options make it a great travel companion, so long as you can accept image limitations. The S1H is more of a “travel photographer with a mission” camera - higher weight but unmatched versatility.

Professional Use

For professional commercial work requiring reliability, color fidelity, and workflow support, the S1H ranks highly. The E-P2 suits casual pros or hobbyists.

Summary of Performance Ratings

The scores tell a story: the S1H dominates overall with high marks in image quality, autofocus, video, and build quality. The E-P2 scores respectably for entry-level status and portability but falls behind in all areas except weight and lens availability.

Genre-Specific Strengths Chart

Here you see the E-P2 favored for portability, street, and travel use, whereas the S1H takes the crown in video, wildlife, sports, and professional settings.

Sample Image Comparisons: Seeing Is Believing

Olympus E P2 front Olympus E P2 screen back Panasonic S1H front Panasonic S1H screen back

Side-by-side, you appreciate the S1H’s richer detail, cleaner shadows, and better background separation. However, the Olympus still produces charming images, well suited for casual sharing and medium print sizes.

Connectivity and Extras: Staying Modern

The E-P2 lacks wireless features, and its USB 2.0 connection is slow by today’s benchmarks. No Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or NFC.

S1H has built-in wireless, Bluetooth, enhanced HDMI, microphone and headphone jacks, and supports faster USB connections - essential for modern remote shooting and fast data transfer.

Price and Value Proposition: Comparing Apples and Pastries

At launch and still today, the E-P2 is priced under $800 - approachable for enthusiasts or as a second camera in a kit. However, buying it used means limited future support.

The S1H, with its nearly $4000 price tag, is a hefty investment tailored for professionals or serious hybrid creatives willing to pay for reliability and advanced functionality.

For those on a budget needing an entry-level Micro Four Thirds system, the E-P2 remains an affordable option if you find one in good condition. If cutting-edge video, low-light performance, and professional build quality matter, the S1H justifies every penny.

Final Recommendations: Who Should Buy What?

• Choose the Olympus E-P2 if:

  • You want a compact, lightweight mirrorless camera great for street, travel, or casual portraits.
  • Budget is limited, and you prefer plenty of affordable Micro Four Thirds lenses.
  • Video and autofocus speed are secondary to portability and ease.
  • You like a classic rangefinder-style design.

• Choose the Panasonic S1H if:

  • You're a professional or advanced enthusiast requiring full-frame image quality.
  • Video capability is as important as still photography, or you are a hybrid shooter.
  • You need advanced autofocus and robust build quality for sports, wildlife, or challenging conditions.
  • You want extensive manual controls, durability, and future-proof connectivity.
  • Budget allows for a pro-level investment.

Reflecting on Over a Decade of Mirrorless Evolution

Comparing the Olympus E-P2 and Panasonic S1H is a fascinating journey through mirrorless camera evolution. The E-P2 introduced us to compact, sensor-stabilized shooting when DSLR bodies were beasts. The S1H redefines the hybrid camera as a cinematic powerhouse capable of tackling the most demanding shoots.

While the E-P2 holds historical and nostalgic value today, the practical reality is that the S1H meets nearly every professional challenge head-on, at a price. For beginners or casual shooters, the E-P2 remains an educational and perfectly adequate tool – provided expectations are aligned.

If you’re searching for your next camera, think clearly about your priorities: portability and cost-effectiveness, or performance and versatility. Either way, mirrorless technology continues to refine and surprise, and the stories these two cameras tell are just the opening chapters.

I hope this deep dive provides clarity and helps you make a confident decision. If you want any specific usage tests or more hands-on tips for these or similar cameras, feel free to reach out! Happy shooting!