Olympus E-PL3 vs Panasonic FZ47: A Hands-On Comparison for Thoughtful Buyers in 2024

Choosing a camera can feel like navigating a jungle of specs, names, and acronyms - especially when confronted with two very different options like the Olympus PEN E-PL3 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ47. Both launched around 2011 with approachable price tags, they target enthusiasts who want easy-to-carry gear, decent image quality, and a versatile feature set without blowing their budget.

Having tested thousands of cameras over the years across all genres - from studio portrait shoots to wildlife expeditions - I’m here to break down what these two can really do in practical terms. I’ll walk you through their design, imaging tech, and real-world performance so you don’t have to guess which one fits your photographic style.

Let’s dive in; you might find these insights surprisingly useful even a decade later if you’re a thrifty buyer or exploring older gear for creative projects.

First Impressions: Size, Design & Handling

Right out of the gate, the Olympus E-PL3 and Panasonic FZ47 play in different leagues ergonomically.

The Olympus E-PL3 is a mirrorless Micro Four Thirds camera with a classic rangefinder-style body. It’s compact, almost dainty by today’s standards, weighing in at just 313g with dimensions 110x64x37 mm. It looks sleek and is ideal for those who prioritize portability and style without sacrificing too much manual control.

On the other hand, the Panasonic FZ47 is a bridge-style superzoom with a built-in fixed lens, weighing significantly more at 498g and measuring 120x80x92 mm. Its heft and SLR-like design mean it’s more substantial in hand, geared towards enthusiasts needing high zoom reach without changing lenses.

Ergonomics matter, and here the E-PL3 shines with simple, clean controls that won’t overwhelm beginners. Its tilting 3-inch screen (460k dots resolution) helps with tricky angles - perfect for portraits or street photography in disguise. The FZ47 has a fixed 3-inch screen of similar resolution but lacks tilting, limiting creative framing flexibility.

Running my fingers along both bodies and buttons during real-world use, the Olympus feels more intuitive for on-the-go shooting. The Panasonic’s bulkier grip and clubs-for-thumbs control layout (common to bridge cameras) keep your hands busy but offer fewer customizable buttons - so less ideal for fast-paced pro setups.

For travelers valuing compactness and ease-of-use, the E-PL3 wins hands down. If you want one camera to cover everything from wide landscapes to zoomed wildlife snaps without juggling lenses, the FZ47’s bulk has a purpose.

Sensor Tech and Image Quality: Seeing Is Believing

One of the biggest differences between these cameras comes down to sensor size and resulting image quality.

The Olympus E-PL3 houses a Four Thirds-type CMOS sensor measuring 17.3x13 mm - fairly large by mirrorless standards - offering 12MP resolution.

Meanwhile, the Panasonic FZ47 features a much smaller 1/2.3” CCD sensor measuring just 6.08x4.56 mm, still 12MP but inherently limited in light gathering and detail.

Why does sensor size matter so much? Larger sensors typically deliver better dynamic range, improved color depth, and superior low-light performance - key factors for demanding photographers.

According to DxOMark, the Olympus stands at an overall score of 52, boasting top marks in color depth (20.9 bits) and dynamic range (10.3 EV), while its low-light ISO score reaches 499 - respectable for a camera of its era.

The Panasonic FZ47 hasn’t been officially tested by DxOMark (a bummer), but its small sensor and CCD tech can’t match the Olympus in these areas. The smaller sensor area and older CCD technology often struggle with noise and reduced dynamic range, especially above ISO 400.

In practical terms, if you often shoot in controlled lighting, daylight landscapes, or prioritize color fidelity (skin tones, foliage hues), the E-PL3’s sensor will reward you with punchier, sharper images.

The Panasonic, however, excels in versatility - its impressive 25-600 mm equivalent zoom puts you at wild adventures or distant action with a single camera. This zoom advantage often compensates for sensor compromises for travel or casual wildlife images where reach is king.

Autofocus and Speed: Who Blinks First?

Speed matters - whether capturing a fleeting street moment or tracking a fidgety animal.

The Olympus E-PL3 is equipped with 35 contrast-detection autofocus points, including face detection. Its continuous AF mode coupled with 6 frames per second burst shooting is decent for an entry-level mirrorless.

The Panasonic FZ47 has 23 contrast-detection points, with face detection and center-weighted AF. Its continuous shooting is slower at 4 fps.

While neither offers professional-grade phase-detection AF or animal eye detection, the Olympus’s higher AF point count and burst rate give it the edge in general autofocus responsiveness.

But let’s be honest - when zoomed out wide on the FZ47, AF lock is snappy. Zoom all the way in to 600mm equivalent, and confirmation can be sluggish in low contrast or low light, but that’s typical for small sensor zoom beasts.

In sports or wildlife shooting where split-second focus is mandatory, the Olympus’s slightly faster AF and burst mode make it a better pick. If slow, methodical shooting’s your style (e.g., landscapes or macros), the difference won’t be as pronounced.

Viewfinder and Rear Screen: The Composing Experience

Screen and viewfinder quality are underrated factors in overall experience.

Both cameras have a 3-inch, 460k-dot LCD, but the E-PL3's is a tilting HyperCrystal LCD with anti-reflective coating; perfect for bright outdoor shooting and creative angles.

The FZ47 offers a fixed rear screen with no anti-reflective coating. You'll find glare annoying under sunlight, undermining its usability somewhat.

Neither camera has a built-in optical viewfinder; the E-PL3 supports an optional electronic viewfinder (sold separately), while the FZ47 includes a built-in electronic viewfinder with full 100% coverage. The FZ47’s EVF helps when shooting in bright daylight, despite modest resolution.

During an afternoon street shoot, I found myself preferring the bigger tilting screen on the Olympus for framing quirky angles and selfies (if only it had a selfie-friendly forward screen). The Panasonic’s viewfinder, while necessary for such a bright day, felt cramped and low-res.

If you value composing flexibility and clearer playback, the Olympus takes the cake. If you want a built-in VF for eye-level shooting, the Panasonic delivers at the expense of rear screen comfort.

Lens Ecosystem and Flexibility: Swap or Zoom?

This is possibly the most critical choice factor depending on your shooting priorities.

The Olympus E-PL3 uses the Micro Four Thirds mount, which means you can choose from over 100+ lenses at various focal lengths, apertures, and specialties (macro, tilt-shift, primes, telephoto zooms). This versatility makes the E-PL3 a budding photographer’s dream, encouraging creativity.

Conversely, the Panasonic FZ47 sports a fixed 25-600mm equivalent lens with F2.8-5.2 aperture. This massive zoom range gives one-gear convenience, but no lens swaps - limiting creative control and image quality potential compared to interchangeable-lens systems.

Real-world tale: On a recent hike, I swapped the Olympus for a fast 45mm prime to nail portraits - bokeh and subject isolation were stunning. The Panasonic captured the panorama and zoomed critters but couldn’t match the artistic juice of the prime.

If you’re a "one and done" traveler favoring fewer pieces to carry and convenience, the FZ47’s lens is irresistible.

If you’re curious about learning optics and want incremental upgrades over time, the E-PL3’s Micro Four Thirds system is far superior.

Battery Life and Storage: How Long Is Too Long?

Battery life often gets overlooked until you miss a shot.

Olympus quotes around 300 shots per charge with the BLS-5 battery on the E-PL3. This is average for mirrorless of its class, but running live view and autofocus can drain batteries quickly.

The Panasonic FZ47 has a quoted 400 shots per charge, noticeably better, partly because CCD sensors and simpler electronics consume less power.

Both use standard SD/SDHC/SDXC cards but the FZ47 also supports internal storage, a handy bonus not found on the Olympus.

Travel photographers and event shooters who can't carry extra batteries will appreciate this edge, though carrying spares is always wise.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Neither camera offers weather sealing or rugged build intended for extreme conditions. The Olympus’s lighter build feels more delicate but still sturdy enough for everyday use. The Panasonic’s bulkier SLR-style body gives a more confident grip but doesn’t offer environmental resistance either.

If you expect to shoot in rugged or wet conditions regularly, neither camera is a champion. A protective case or cover is mandatory.

Video Capabilities: Keeping It Moving

Video used to be a secondary consideration on this type of camera, but even back in 2011 both offered Full HD.

• Olympus E-PL3 records at 1920x1080 60fps (AVCHD, Motion JPEG); smooth, relatively clean footage with decent autofocus during video (contrast detection), but no built-in mic or headphone ports limits audio quality options.

• Panasonic FZ47 shoots 1920x1080 at 30fps (AVCHD) with optical image stabilization - helpful for handheld recording. Like Olympus, it lacks audio input jacks.

If video is important, the Olympus’s 60fps allows smoother slow motion and better creative options. The FZ47’s optical stabilization is a plus on the zoom lens, reducing shake when recording wildlife or events handheld.

Neither is a pro video machine, but for casual shooters or vloggers on a budget, the Olympus edges out slightly due to higher framerate.

Performance Summary and Scoring

To sum up the specs and real-world impressions, here’s a consolidated performance snapshot.

Genre-Specific Considerations: Which Camera Fits What?

Let’s match these cameras against popular photography genres to help you figure out your best budget buddy.

Portrait Photography: The E-PL3’s larger sensor, interchangeable lenses, and accurate face detection deliver smoother skin tones and creamy bokeh. The FZ47’s long zoom can get distant candid shots but bokeh is flatter.

Landscape Photography: The Olympus provides better dynamic range and tilting screen, aiding composition in tricky light. The Panasonic’s superzoom lets you capture far vistas but limited sensor quality denies fine detail.

Wildlife Photography: Panasonic’s massive zoom goes from wide to far in one shot - ideal if changing lenses isn’t your thing. Olympus autofocus and burst are faster, but you’ll need a long tele lens on the MFT mount.

Sports Photography: Olympus’s 6 fps burst and faster AF give it a slight edge, though neither is a sports pro’s dream. Panasonic’s slower fps and AF tracking can make fast action shots tougher.

Street Photography: The compactness and quiet operation of the Olympus make it stealthier. The Panasonic’s bulk and zoom barrel noise draw more attention.

Macro Photography: Olympus benefits from lens variety, including macro primes; Panasonic claims a 1cm macro but small sensor limits detail.

Night/Astro Photography: Olympus wins on noise control and higher dynamic range at high ISO. The FZ47’s sensor noise is more intrusive.

Video: Olympus offers smoother 60fps at Full HD; Panasonic’s strong optical stabilization makes it decent for handheld zoomed videos.

Travel Photography: Panasonic’s versatile zoom lens is great for carry-light travelers, but bulkier weight. Olympus’s smaller body and lens swap flexibility suit travelers willing to pack a couple lenses.

Professional Work: Neither matches professional-grade reliability or formats, but Olympus’s RAW support and MFT lens ecosystem give it better workflow options.

Connectivity and Extras

Neither camera sports wireless connectivity, Bluetooth, or GPS - typical for their time.

Both have HDMI and USB 2.0 ports, but no microphone or headphone jacks for serious video. The Olympus lacks built-in flash, needing external units, whereas the Panasonic includes a pop-up flash with a 9.5m range - useful in a pinch.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Olympus E-PL3

Pros:

• Larger Micro Four Thirds CMOS sensor for improved image quality
• Interchangeable lens system with broad ecosystem
• Tilting 3” anti-reflective LCD screen
• Faster burst rate and autofocus performance
• 1080p @ 60fps video recording capability
• Compact and stylish design

Cons:

• No built-in flash, requiring accessories
• Limited battery life (~300 shots)
• No weather sealing
• No built-in viewfinder (EVF sold separately)

Panasonic FZ47

Pros:

• Massive 25-600mm equivalent fixed zoom lens
• Built-in electronic viewfinder with 100% coverage
• Better battery life (~400 shots)
• Built-in flash included
• Optical image stabilization for both stills and video
• Good all-in-one travel zoom camera

Cons:

• Small 1/2.3” CCD sensor limits image quality and low light
• Slower autofocus and continuous shooting
• No RAW file support limits post-processing
• Fixed non-tilting screen prone to glare
• Bulky compared to mirrorless
• No microphone or headphone jacks

Who Should Buy Which? Your Personalized Recommendations

Now that the facts are on the table, let’s talk practical realities:

• Choose the Olympus E-PL3 if:
  You’re a budding enthusiast or pro looking for strong image quality, love the idea of swapping lenses, want a compact package for street, portrait or travel, and prefer smoother video. It’s a highly versatile platform that rewards investing time in learning craft. Even in 2024, the E-PL3 can produce impressive stills and HD videos, especially if you find it at a bargain.

• Choose the Panasonic FZ47 if:
  You’re a casual shooter or traveler who wants one camera with an enormous zoom range built in, prefer simplicity over fiddling with lenses, and want longer battery life. It’s also suitable if you need a built-in viewfinder and decent image stabilization during video. Just temper expectations about image quality and manual control - this is a capable “point and zoom” camera rather than creative powerhouse.

Final Thoughts: Budget Cameras With Different Souls

Looking at two cameras released in the same time frame but built with different philosophies helps clarify what each type of tool can offer.

The Olympus E-PL3 clings more to the mirrorless revolution with its compact body and flexible lens system, giving you more control and better image quality, especially under challenging conditions. It’s perfect if you want to grow your photography skills, valuing portability and nuance.

The Panasonic FZ47 is an all-in-one superzoom bridge camera packing a crazy zoom into one fixed lens, designed for those seeking reach and convenience rather than sensor performance or creative control. It’s a decent travel companion if you want to shoot a variety of scenes without carrying a backpack full of glass.

Both cameras have obvious technological ceilings from today’s standpoint, but for cheapskates or creative tinkerers experimenting with legacy gear, understanding these pros and cons is invaluable.

Sample Image Gallery: See the Difference Yourself

Don’t just take my word for it - here’s a gallery showing sample shots from both cameras in various lighting and genre conditions.

Olympus E PL3 screen back Panasonic FZ47 front Panasonic FZ47 screen back

I hope this comparison has helped clear up the strengths and limitations of these two very different cameras. If you’re hunting bargains or secondhand deals, keep these insights in your back pocket to pick the camera that really fits your needs rather than chasing specs alone.

Happy shooting!