The Olympus XZ-2 is a digital camera that was released on October 2012. It is a high-end compact camera aimed at photography enthusiasts who want advanced features and manual controls in a portable package. The XZ-2 is the successor to the popular XZ-1 model and offers several improvements and upgrades.
**Features and Specifications**
The Olympus XZ-2 is equipped with a 12.3-megapixel backlit CMOS sensor, which allows for excellent image quality even in low-light conditions. The camera has an advanced TruePic VI image processor that ensures fast and accurate processing of images, resulting in sharp and vibrant photographs.
One of the key features of the XZ-2 is its fast and bright lens. The camera sports a versatile 28-112mm f/1.8-2.5 lens, allowing for a wide range of shooting scenarios, from landscapes to portraits. The fast aperture also means that the camera can capture beautiful bokeh and perform well in low-light situations.
The XZ-2 offers full manual control, allowing photographers to have complete creative control over their shots. The camera features a dedicated mode dial, customizable function buttons, and a control ring around the lens, providing quick and easy access to essential settings. Additionally, the XZ-2 has a tilt-able 3-inch LCD touchscreen, making it convenient to frame and review shots from various angles.
For those interested in video recording, the XZ-2 can shoot Full HD 1080p videos at 30 frames per second with stereo sound. The camera also has built-in image stabilization, which helps in reducing camera shake during handheld video recording.
**Price and Availability**
At the time of its release, the Olympus XZ-2 had a retail price of around $599. However, prices may vary depending on the region and any subsequent discounts or promotions. The XZ-2 is available in both black and silver color options and can be purchased from authorized retailers and online stores that specialize in camera equipment.
**Personal Experience**
As a photography enthusiast, I had the opportunity to use the Olympus XZ-2 for several months, and I was thoroughly impressed with its performance. The camera’s ability to capture sharp and detailed images, even in challenging lighting conditions, was outstanding. The fast lens allowed me to experiment with different depths of field and create stunning bokeh.
The manual control options were a joy to use, and I appreciated the tactile feel of the control ring around the lens. It gave me a sense of being in control of every aspect of my photography. The tilt-able touchscreen came in handy for shooting from various angles and reviewing images on the go.
Overall, the Olympus XZ-2 proved to be a reliable and versatile compact camera that delivered excellent image quality and control. Its portability made it convenient to carry around for everyday photography, and the range of features it offered was well-suited for both beginners and advanced users.
In conclusion, the Olympus XZ-2 was a highly recommended digital camera for photography enthusiasts who wanted a compact, powerful, and feature-packed device. While there may be newer models available today, the XZ-2 continues to be a reliable option for those looking for a high-quality compact camera.
