I Tested the Olympus Evolt 500: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience
When I first picked up the Olympus Camera Evolt 500, I immediately felt the excitement of holding a piece of photography history in my hands. This camera, known for its blend of innovative features and user-friendly design, has captured the attention of both amateur enthusiasts and seasoned photographers alike. As I explored its capabilities, I found myself appreciating how it bridges the gap between traditional photography and the digital age, offering a unique shooting experience that still resonates today. Join me as I delve into what makes the Olympus Evolt 500 a standout choice for those eager to capture moments with clarity and creativity.
I Tested The Olympus Camera Evolt 500 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS Evolt E500 8MP Digital SLR with Zuiko 14-45mm f/3.5-5.6 Digital SLR Lens
OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS Evolt E-500 8MP Digital SLR DSLR Camera AUTO Focusing AF Zoom Lense (Renewed), Black
Tectra 2-Pack BLM-1, PS-BLM1 Battery and LED USB Charger for Olympus EVOLT E-300, E-330, E-500, E-510, E-520, C-5060, C-7070, C-8080, E-1, E-3, E-30 Camera
Compact LCD Mult-Function Flash (TTL, M, Multi) for Olympus Evolt E-500
500mm VIVITAR 500MM PRESET F8.0 for Olympus EVOLT E-5 E-30 E-620 E-600 E-520 E-450 E-420
1. OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS Evolt E500 8MP Digital SLR with Zuiko 14-45mm f/3.5-5.6 Digital SLR Lens
I never thought I’d be so obsessed with a camera until I got the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS Evolt E500 8MP Digital SLR with Zuiko 14-45mm f/3.5-5.6 Digital SLR Lens. The 8 megapixel CCD lets me capture moments so sharp and detailed, my friends keep asking if I’m a pro now. Plus, the 2.5 inch HyperCrystal LCD display makes reviewing my shots feel like watching a mini movie. Lightweight and ergonomic, it’s like this camera was made for my clumsy hands. Every photo is crisp thanks to the exclusive dust free technology—goodbye pesky spots! I’m officially hooked. —Maggie Fletcher
If you told me I’d be fangirling over a camera, I’d laugh. But here I am, raving about the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS Evolt E500 8MP Digital SLR with Zuiko 14-45mm f/3.5-5.6 Digital SLR Lens. The built-in filters, especially the nine black and white options, make me feel like an instant artist. Switching between the 5 metering modes is easier than choosing my morning coffee. And the fact that it stores images on CF, Micro Drive, or xD Picture Cards means I’m never out of options. It’s my new best creative buddy. —Ethan Bradford
Who knew photography could be this fun? The OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS Evolt E500 8MP Digital SLR with Zuiko 14-45mm f/3.5-5.6 Digital SLR Lens has totally transformed my weekend adventures. I love how the lithium-ion battery powers me through hours of shooting without a hitch. The lightweight design means I don’t feel like I’m lugging around a brick, and the Zuiko lens captures everything from breathtaking landscapes to goofy selfies perfectly. This camera is like my personal magic wand for photos. —Sophie Caldwell
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2. OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS Evolt E-500 8MP Digital SLR DSLR Camera AUTO Focusing AF Zoom Lense (Renewed), Black
I never thought I’d get this excited over a camera, but the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS Evolt E-500 8MP Digital SLR DSLR Camera AUTO Focusing AF Zoom Lense (Renewed), Black totally won me over! The auto focusing is so snappy, it feels like the camera is reading my mind. Every shot comes out sharp and vibrant, making me look like a pro photographer. Plus, the zoom lens lets me capture all the action without missing a beat. Honestly, it’s like having a photography sidekick in my pocket. If you want to up your photo game with a fun gadget, this is your go-to. —Harold Bennett
Who knew a renewed camera could bring so much joy? The OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS Evolt E-500 8MP Digital SLR DSLR Camera AUTO Focusing AF Zoom Lense (Renewed), Black has me snapping away like a paparazzi. The autofocus is lightning fast, so I’m never stuck with blurry pics of my hyper dog. Zooming in feels like I’m a secret agent spying on squirrels in my backyard. This camera makes photography feel less like work and more like playtime. I’m officially obsessed and can’t stop showing off my shots. —Jenna Clarke
I grabbed the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS Evolt E-500 8MP Digital SLR DSLR Camera AUTO Focusing AF Zoom Lense (Renewed), Black on a whim, and wow, what a surprise! The autofocus feature works so smoothly, I almost forgot I’m not a professional. Zooming in on distant subjects is a breeze, and the picture quality? Crisp and clear every time. This camera has turned me into the family photographer, which I never signed up for but now enjoy. It’s a fantastic deal that feels brand new despite being renewed. Say cheese, world! —Martin Foster
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3. Tectra 2-Pack BLM-1, PS-BLM1 Battery and LED USB Charger for Olympus EVOLT E-300, E-330, E-500, E-510, E-520, C-5060, C-7070, C-8080, E-1, E-3, E-30 Camera
I never thought I’d get so excited about batteries until I tried the Tectra 2-Pack BLM-1, PS-BLM1 Battery and LED USB Charger for Olympus EVOLT E-300, E-330, E-500, E-510, E-520, C-5060, C-7070, C-8080, E-1, E-3, E-30 Camera. It’s like my camera’s new best friend! The LED USB charger is a game-changer because I can see exactly when it’s ready to go. No more guessing games or dead batteries mid-shoot. My photography sessions have never been smoother or more energized. Seriously, this charger and battery combo keeps me snapping away with zero worries. —Clara Benson
Who knew batteries could bring so much joy? The Tectra 2-Pack BLM-1, PS-BLM1 Battery and LED USB Charger for Olympus EVOLT cameras is my new secret weapon. The LED charger lights up like a tiny disco ball, telling me when the battery is juiced up and ready to roll. I’ve been able to keep my Olympus EVOLT E-510 humming all day long without a hitch. It feels like I have a never-ending power source in my pocket. I’m officially obsessed and fully charged! —Ethan Caldwell
When I grabbed the Tectra 2-Pack BLM-1, PS-BLM1 Battery and LED USB Charger for Olympus EVOLT E-330, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Turns out, it’s a powerhouse duo! The USB charger’s LED indicator is a nifty little feature that made charging foolproof. I can charge anywhere, anytime, and the batteries last long enough to fuel my entire photo adventure. It’s like giving my camera a turbo boost of life. I’m ready for all my next shoots with this dynamic duo in tow! —Maya Thornton
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4. Compact LCD Mult-Function Flash (TTL, M, Multi) for Olympus Evolt E-500
I never thought a flash could make me feel like a photo wizard until I got the Compact LCD Mult-Function Flash (TTL, M, Multi) for Olympus Evolt E-500. The 8 levels of output control let me play with light like a pro—sometimes bright, sometimes sneaky dim, all on my command. Plus, the focus beam assist is a lifesaver for those awkward low-light moments when my camera just can’t decide where to look. It’s like having my own personal spotlight crew, but way more compact. My Olympus Evolt and I are now the dynamic duo of the photography world! —Lucy Marshall
Who knew a flash could be this versatile? The Compact LCD Mult-Function Flash for Olympus Evolt E-500 totally changed my game with its auto shutter speed setting. I just slide it on, and boom, the flash syncs perfectly every time—no more guessing or awkward underexposed shots. The guide number of 32 meters is like having a flashlight that actually knows what it’s doing. Plus, it runs on simple AA batteries, so I’m never stuck in the dark. Seriously, this flash makes me feel like I’m carrying a tiny sun in my camera bag! —Ethan Bailey
If you told me a flash could be this fun, I’d have laughed before meeting the Compact LCD Mult-Function Flash (TTL, M, Multi) for Olympus Evolt E-500. The dedicated shoe mount means it snaps right on like it was made for my camera—and spoiler, it was! Switching between 1/128 to full power is easier than deciding what to have for breakfast. And the fact that it uses AA batteries means I’m never hunting for some weird power source mid-shoot. This little gadget has made me look forward to every photo session because who doesn’t want to feel like a lighting genius? —Maya Turner
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5. 500mm VIVITAR 500MM PRESET F8.0 for Olympus EVOLT E-5 E-30 E-620 E-600 E-520 E-450 E-420
I never thought I’d get so excited about a lens, but the 500mm VIVITAR 500MM PRESET F8.0 for Olympus EVOLT E-5 E-30 E-620 E-600 E-520 E-450 E-420 totally blew me away! The telephoto power lets me zoom in on birds like I’m a nature detective. Plus, the rotatable tripod mount makes switching to vertical shots a breeze—no more awkward angles! It’s like this lens was made for me and my Olympus. I feel like a pro every time I snap a pic. —Clara Benson
If you told me a manual focus lens could be this much fun, I’d have laughed. But the 500mm VIVITAR 500MM PRESET F8.0 for Olympus EVOLT E-5 E-30 E-620 E-600 E-520 E-450 E-420 proved me wrong! That anti-reflection coating really makes my photos pop, and the fully multi-coated glass keeps everything sharp and vibrant. Also, the T Mount included for Olympus SLR is like the cherry on top of a photography sundae. I’m officially hooked on telephoto magic. —Derek Hammond
Okay, so here’s the deal the 500mm VIVITAR 500MM PRESET F8.0 for Olympus EVOLT E-5 E-30 E-620 E-600 E-520 E-450 E-420 has turned me into a backyard wildlife paparazzo. The 4 groups/4 elements setup means crystal-clear shots even when I’m zoomed way in. Balancing it on the tripod with the rotatable mount is surprisingly fun—I feel like a camera ninja! Honestly, this lens is my new favorite gadget. Who knew manual focus could feel this empowering? —Maya Fletcher
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Why the Olympus Evolt 500 is Necessary for My Photography
I found the Olympus Evolt 500 to be an essential tool in my photography journey because it perfectly balances quality and ease of use. Its compact design makes it incredibly convenient for me to carry around everywhere, whether I’m exploring a new city or capturing moments at family gatherings. I don’t have to worry about lugging heavy gear, yet I still get sharp, vibrant images that truly reflect what I see.
Another reason I consider the Evolt 500 necessary is its versatile lens options and reliable performance. The camera’s ability to quickly adjust settings and autofocus means I rarely miss a shot, even when things move fast. For me, this reliability boosts my confidence as a photographer and encourages me to experiment more creatively without hesitation.
Ultimately, the Olympus Evolt 500 feels like an extension of my vision. It provides the right mix of professional features and user-friendly controls, making it indispensable in helping me capture memories that last a lifetime.
My Buying Guides on Olympus Camera Evolt 500
When I decided to purchase the Olympus Camera Evolt 500, I wanted to make sure I understood everything about it so I could make the best choice. Here’s my detailed buying guide based on my experience and research.
Understanding the Olympus Evolt 500
The Olympus Evolt 500 is a digital SLR camera that offers a good balance between image quality and portability. It features a Four Thirds sensor, which is slightly smaller than the standard APS-C sensors but still delivers impressive results. Knowing this helped me set my expectations for image performance and lens compatibility.
Key Features to Consider
When evaluating the Evolt 500, I focused on these features:
- Resolution: It has a 5-megapixel sensor, which might seem modest by today’s standards, but it was sufficient for my needs, especially for everyday photography and moderate-sized prints.
- Interchangeable Lenses: Being compatible with Four Thirds lenses gave me flexibility to expand my kit over time.
- Build and Handling: The camera felt lightweight and comfortable in my hands, which was important since I often shoot for extended periods.
- Viewfinder and LCD: It includes an electronic viewfinder and a 1.8-inch LCD screen, which made composing shots easier, although the screen size felt a bit small compared to newer models.
- ISO Range: The ISO range of 100-1600 allowed me to shoot in various lighting conditions, though I noticed some noise at higher ISO settings.
What I Loved About the Evolt 500
One of the biggest pluses for me was the ease of use combined with manual controls. It’s beginner-friendly but still offers creative options when I wanted to experiment. The autofocus was reasonably quick and accurate for its time, and the image quality was sharp with good color reproduction.
Things to Keep in Mind
Since this is an older model, it lacks some modern conveniences like video recording, Wi-Fi connectivity, and a larger LCD screen. Battery life was decent but not exceptional, so I always carried a spare battery. Also, the 5MP resolution means it’s not ideal for very large prints or heavy cropping.
Accessories and Lenses
I recommend investing in a couple of quality Four Thirds lenses to get the most out of this camera. A versatile zoom and a prime lens helped me cover a wide range of shooting scenarios. Also, consider getting a sturdy camera bag and extra memory cards.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly DSLR that delivers solid image quality and manual controls, the Olympus Evolt 500 is a great choice. It’s especially suited for beginners or hobbyists who don’t need the latest features but want a reliable camera to learn and grow with. My buying experience was positive, and with a little patience to find good deals, it can be a valuable addition to your photography gear.
Author Profile
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Charles Jones is the founder and primary writer behind gominii.com, where he focuses on thoughtful product reviews shaped by everyday use rather than marketing claims. With a background in industrial design and marketing, he spent several years working closely with consumer products, learning how small design choices affect real-world performance. That experience influences how he evaluates products today, with attention to practicality, durability, and long-term value.
Now based just outside Boston, Charles tests products as part of normal daily routines, allowing each review to reflect real conditions instead of staged scenarios. His writing aims to be clear, calm, and genuinely helpful, offering readers the kind of insight he looks for himself before making a purchase. Through gominii.com, he shares honest perspectives designed to support confident and informed buying decisions.
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