Olympus E-PL3 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ30: A Deep Dive into Two Distinct Worlds of Photography

Choosing a camera can be as personal and nuanced as picking a favorite lens or style of photography. Today, I’m putting head-to-head two very different cameras that often appeal to overlapping but distinct user bases: the Olympus E-PL3, a 2011 entry-level mirrorless system camera, and the Panasonic LZ30, a 2013 bridge-style superzoom with a small sensor. They reflect two alternate philosophies in photography: one emphasizing system expandability and sensor quality, the other focusing on all-in-one convenience and reach. After years of hands-on testing and real-world shooting, I’ll offer you a detailed comparison rooted in practical experience, helping you decide which tool fits your photographic ambitions best.

First Impressions: Size, Handling, and Ergonomics

Before digging into pixel counts or autofocus algorithms, holding a camera reveals a lot about its character. The Olympus E-PL3 is a compact mirrorless with a rangefinder-style body, while the Panasonic LZ30 leans into the bridge camera design, with an SLR-like grip and a built-in superzoom lens.

At just 110 x 64 x 37 mm and roughly 313 grams, the E-PL3 is noticeably pocket-friendly, perfect for enthusiasts who want portability without sacrificing image quality. The micro four-thirds lens mount with loads of optical choices offers huge versatility in a small package. Conversely, the LZ30 occupies a bulkier frame at 124 x 84 x 92 mm and 552 grams, mostly due to its built-in 875mm equivalent zoom lens. This heft translates to notable reach but reduces discreetness.

What really sets E-PL3 apart for me is its tilting 3-inch screen, which aids shooting from creative angles without strain. The LZ30's fixed 3-inch display matches in size and resolution but can feel limiting when you want more compositional flexibility. Both lack touch interfaces, which nowadays feels a bit dated but was expected in their era.

Ergonomically, the E-PL3's minimalist controls suit users familiar with mirrorless systems seeking quick manual adjustments, while the LZ30’s bridge design leans to beginners or casual shooters who favor simplicity - fewer dials but sizeable grip to manage the big lens.

Top-Down Look: Control Layout and User Interface

Taking a peek from above uncovers how each camera approaches user interaction - critical for fast-paced shooting or learning curves.

Olympus modestly equips the E-PL3 with dedicated buttons and a dial that support shutter priority, aperture priority, manual exposure, and exposure compensation - key for photographers who appreciate creative control. Although there’s no built-in electronic viewfinder, the option to attach one is there, a caveat worth mentioning - it requires extra investment.

Panasonic’s LZ30 dispenses with advanced exposure modes entirely, limiting itself to manual exposure but no shutter or aperture priority settings. That’s a signal of its positioning: capturing moments with automation rather than full manual command. Also noticeable is the absence of any viewfinder, forcing reliance on the rear LCD under bright conditions, which can be frustrating.

From handling to interface sophistication, the E-PL3 edges ahead for photographers who crave haptic feedback and control speed - important if you shoot in dynamic environments demanding quick reaction.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

One might guess that sensor tech and size are where these two diverge most drastically - and rightly so.

To start, the Olympus E-PL3 sports a 12MP Micro Four Thirds CMOS sensor measuring 17.3 x 13 mm with an effective sensor area of roughly 224.9 mm². Its sensor size and TruePic VI processor combine to deliver pleasing results that, in 2024 terms, might not push the boundaries but hold up remarkably well in its class. The sensor's base ISO starts at 200 with a max of 12,800, which is respectable, though noise starts creeping in above ISO 1600.

The Panasonic LZ30’s sensor is much smaller, at 1/2.3-inch CCD with a 16MP resolution, but corresponding to only 6.17 x 4.55 mm and a sensor area of 28.07 mm². This sensor is typical of point-and-shoot superzoom cameras, trading image quality for zoom versatility. Despite the higher megapixel count, the physical sensor size constraints severely limit low-light performance and dynamic range.

In my shooting tests - particularly under varied lighting - the Olympus E-PL3 exhibits stronger color depth, better retention in shadows and highlights, and lower noise at higher ISOs compared to the Panasonic. Its raw file support gives advanced post-processing latitude, which the LZ30 completely lacks - no raw, so you’re stuck with the baked-in JPEGs straight from the camera.

For photographers focused on portrait or landscape work, where image fidelity and tone gradation matter greatly, the E-PL3’s sensor delivers superior results. The LZ30 has its merits when your priority is zoomed-in wildlife or casual travel snaps with basic quality needs.

The Viewfinder and Display: Seeing Your Shot

Given the different eras and categories, neither camera boasts a high-resolution electronic viewfinder embedded.

The Olympus E-PL3 offers an optional electronic viewfinder accessory, while the LZ30 has none at all. This places the E-PL3 slightly ahead but not definitively, as many users rely on LCD screens for composing.

Both utilize 3-inch LCDs with 460k-dot resolution, but the E-PL3's HyperCrystal LCD with AR coating provides better visibility in bright outdoor settings. Its tilting mechanism is a practical feature supporting creativity - difficult angles become feasible without compromising framing or ergonomics.

The Panasonic LZ30’s fixed TFT LCD is serviceable but prone to glare, inhibiting compositional accuracy in harsh sunlight or reflective environments.

If you favor an agile shooting style with flexibility, the Olympus screen design will appeal more. For casual point-and-shooters or those on a budget, the Panasonic’s screen suffices but can limit your shooting confidence outdoors.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Tracking the Action

Autofocus is critical across sports, wildlife, street, and even macro photography, where precision matters.

The Olympus E-PL3 implements contrast-detection autofocus with 35 focus points and face detection capabilities (though no dedicated animal eye autofocus). It supports continuous autofocus and impressive 6fps burst shooting, which is quite nimble for an entry-level mirrorless camera of that era. In my field experience, it locks quickly in decent light and tracks subjects adequately in most everyday scenarios.

Meanwhile, the Panasonic LZ30 offers contrast detection autofocus with unspecified number of focus points and center-weighted AF. Its slower 1fps continuous shooting rate and more limited AF customization reflect its casual design intent. Face detection is absent, making portrait-focused shooting less straightforward.

So when it comes to wildlife and sports photography - where speed and accurate subject tracking become vital - the Olympus had a discernible advantage. The LZ30’s AF, while dependable for still subjects, struggles with fast-moving objects or complex scenes.

Lens Ecosystem and Optical Versatility

The lens system tells you as much about a camera's longevity and creative capability as any specification.

With its Micro Four Thirds mount, Olympus E-PL3 benefits from over 100 compatible lenses across both Olympus and Panasonic offerings, covering everything from ultra-wide landscapes to specialized macro and fast primes for portraits.

The stock kit lenses usually range from 14-42mm (28-84mm equivalent), but you could quickly adapt to professional optics or even vintage glass, thanks to adapters.

The Panasonic LZ30 sports a fixed superzoom lens with an enormous 25-875mm (35mm equivalent) focal length and variable aperture from f/3.0 to f/5.9. This is a 35x optical zoom - enabling you to shoot from wide environmental scenes far into distant wildlife or sports arenas without swapping lenses. It's a powerful feature for casual shooters who prefer versatility over optical refinement.

However, fixed lenses come with tradeoffs: optical compromises are inevitable, with corner softness and vignetting creeping in at telephoto ends. Aperture limitations also restrict low-light use and depth of field control.

If you crave optical quality and flexibility, Olympus wins hands-down. For serious reach without needing multiple lenses, Panasonic’s LZ30 covers ground like few compact cameras.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing

I put cameras to the test in various conditions, so build and durability matter in a practical sense.

Neither the Olympus E-PL3 nor the Panasonic LZ30 are weather-sealed or ruggedized. The E-PL3 features a lightweight plastic chassis with reasonable ergonomic sturdiness, though not designed for harsh environments or heavy professional abuse.

The LZ30’s bridge-style body is bulkier and feels a bit more robust, but again offers no official dustproof or moisture resistance - it’s meant for leisurely use rather than environmental extremes.

If you are a professional or serious enthusiast who shoots landscapes outdoors in uncertain weather, you’ll likely want to supplement these cameras with weather protection or consider models with weather sealing.

Battery Life and Storage Flexibility

Here, practical usability ties directly to your shooting habits.

The Olympus E-PL3 uses a dedicated rechargeable lithium-ion battery (BLS-5), rated for about 300 shots per charge under standard testing conditions. In my time testing, this roughly matches reality, though live-view-heavy and video shooters may see fewer images.

The Panasonic LZ30 relies on 4 AA batteries, which can mean less runtime but more convenience in the field - you can swap batteries anywhere, anytime, a definite plus for travel or remote shooting. It achieves about 380 shots per set according to its specs.

Both cameras take SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, with one slot each. Storage expandability and speed are adequate but not special.

Video Capabilities: Not Just for Stills

Both cameras provide modest video features, reflecting their release periods but still usable in casual situations.

The E-PL3 supports 1080p Full HD video at 60fps in AVCHD and Motion JPEG formats - quite capable for an entry-level camera. However, it lacks a microphone or headphone jack, limiting professional audio control. Video stabilization relies on sensor-based systems integrated with lens IS.

The LZ30 maxes out at 720p HD video at 30fps in Motion JPEG format, offering only basic recording, without external mic input or advanced codecs.

For casual video, the E-PL3’s higher resolution and frame rate are a significant advantage. But if your priority is hybrid photo/video shooting, neither camera will satisfy very advanced needs.

Real-World Use Across Photography Types

Let’s see how these cameras handle diverse genres based on hands-on experience.

Portrait Photography

Skin tones benefit from the E-PL3's larger sensor and better color depth, with natural subject isolation from interchangeable lenses offering attractive bokeh. Face detection aids precise focusing.

The LZ30’s small sensor struggles to create shallow depth of field, and lack of face detection hampers consistent eye focus. Portraits are serviceable but less refined.

Landscape Photography

The E-PL3’s dynamic range and 12MP resolution make it much better for landscapes. Tilting screen and manual controls assist composition in tricky light, though absence of weather sealing nudges you to cautious shooting.

The LZ30’s extensive zoom allows framing distant landscapes in detail but at cost of image quality. Its CCD sensor yields lower dynamic range and limited expandability.

Wildlife and Sports

Long reach on the LZ30 is a compelling selling point for casual wildlife shooters without lens changes, but slower AF and 1fps burst speed mean missed moments.

E-PL3’s faster 6fps rate and face/body tracking support active sports and wildlife shooting, though extra investment in telephoto lenses needed.

Street Photography

E-PL3’s compact size and discreet design favor street shooting with natural look and spontaneous responsiveness.

LZ30’s size reduces portability and, despite zoom, limits stealth. Autofocus slower, so fleeting moments harder to capture with precision.

Macro Photography

E-PL3’s system allows dedicated macro lenses with precise focusing and stabilization, yielding sharp close-ups.

LZ30 has 1cm macro range, decent at casual level, but lacks focus stacking or advanced control.

Night and Astro

E-PL3’s sensor fares better in low light, outperforming LZ30 in noise control and usable ISO. Long exposures and manual shutter help astro enthusiasts.

LZ30’s high ISO noisy, limited shutter speeds curtail astrophotography potential.

Travel Photography

LZ30 offers remarkable focal length flexibility without lens swapping - handy for travel photographers who want “one camera fits all.”

E-PL3’s compactness and better IQ outweigh zoom reach for many travelers willing to carry extra glass.

Professional Work

Neither is a pro-level tool outright. The E-PL3’s raw support, manual control, and lens mount boost workflow integration, possibly usable as backup. LZ30 intended for casual snaps, no raw, fewer manual options.

Connectivity and Extras

Neither camera offers wireless connectivity, Bluetooth, or NFC - expected from their respective release periods but limiting instant sharing workflows today.

Olympus includes an HDMI output for clean video feed, absent on Panasonic, helpful if you connect to external monitors.

Both use USB 2.0 for data transfer, slow but serviceable.

Price-to-Performance and Value

At their release prices, the Olympus E-PL3 was positioned in the $399 range, while the Panasonic LZ30 targeted a budget segment near $230. This difference translates into tradeoffs between image quality and zoom versatility.

For someone prioritizing image quality, system expansion, and creative control, the E-PL3 offers more sustainable value, especially when paired with varied lenses.

If your main criteria are zoom length and convenience for casual shooting, with minimal post-processing, the Panasonic LZ30 presents an affordable, ready-to-go package.

Olympus E PL3 screen back Panasonic LZ30 front Panasonic LZ30 screen back

Here you can see side-by-side image samples demonstrating the Olympus’ stronger dynamic range, sharper details, and better skin tone rendition (left), against the Panasonic’s reach and decent color under good lighting (right).

Summative Scores and Genre Breakdown

These expert scores synthesize years of lab and field tests: Olympus E-PL3 consistently outperforms Panasonic LZ30 in image quality, autofocus accuracy, and shooting flexibility, while the LZ30 edges in zoom reach and battery convenience.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

If I had to recommend between these two cameras to my friends or followers, it really boils down to what you want from your photographic journey:

• Choose the Olympus E-PL3 if you want an entry-level mirrorless with room to grow, comfortable manual controls, superior image quality, and better performance for portraits, landscapes, night shooting, and sports. It’s especially suited to enthusiasts ready to dive deeper into camera systems without overwhelming complexity.

• Opt for the Panasonic LZ30 if you prioritize an all-in-one zoom powerhouse with no lens changes necessary, and mostly casual shooting scenarios. Its superzoom and AA battery convenience make it a solid pick for families, travelers wanting simple versatility, or outdoor enthusiasts who need reach but don’t mind compromises in quality.

As always, consider your budget - used E-PL3 bodies now often appear in the sub-$300 market and paired lenses can be found affordably. The LZ30 targets those who want maximum zoom with minimal fuss and initial outlay.

A Personal Note

I've enjoyed using both cameras at different phases of my own photography journey. Olympus’s micro four-thirds system reignited my love of interchangeable lenses, while Panasonic’s bridge models reminded me of the fun in “point-and-zoom” convenience during fast-paced trips. The choice isn’t merely technical; it’s about which camera inspires you to pick it up and create.

I hope this thorough comparison sheds light on how these two cameras meet varied photographic needs. Should you want more insider details or sample galleries from my tests, feel free to reach out or check my accompanying video reviews.

Happy shooting!