Olympus FE-300

The Olympus FE-300 represents an emerging class of digital cameras targeted at the beginner wooed by double-digit megapixels. At 12 megapixels, the FE-300 is one of several cameras that reach an all-time high resolution for point-and-shoots. When Olympus launched its 12-megapixel entry-level camera in August 2007, Olympus called it the slimmest in its class. At $299.99, the new FE-camera is also one of the least expensive 12-megapixel options. The FE-300 is equipped with a basic 3x optical zoom lens and 2.5-inch LCD screen, but adds a few features such as Perfect Shot Preview and Smile Shutter. 

Physical Tour

Front (7.25)
The Olympus FE-300 features an Olympus lens positioned slightly off center to the right. The lens extends into three tiers when turned on. Text on the outer lens read: “AF 3x Optical Zoom 7.4-22mm 1:2.6-4.7.” Similar to other Olympus FE cameras, the lens on the FE-300 includes a raised band stretching to the edge of the camera to aid in handling. Just below the lens, to the left of the barrel, is the camera’s microphone and “12.0 Megapixel” count labeling.

On the top left is a circular self-timer lamp and camera flash, located under the shutter release button, that is visible from the front. Below the flash is the embossed Olympus logo.

Back (7.75)
Most of the back features the 2.5-inch LCD monitor, which sits on a platform with a surrounding lip. Above the LCD is the green lamp for the monitor, record button, card access lamp, and playback button. To the right of the record and playback buttons is the mode dial, located right around where the thumb rest would be. Below the mode dial is the four-way controller, or arrow pad with four directional functions for Macro mode, exposure, flash, and self-timer. The menu and backlight boost/erase buttons are located just below the four-way controller.

Left Side (7.0)
There are no features on this side of the Olympus FE-300.

Right Side (6.0)
On this side, users are able to use the multi-connector terminal, labeled “USB A/V Out,” to connect the camera to a computer or TV. The connector cover is a plastic door latched on by a piece of rubber. Below the compartment is an eyelet that allows users to secure a wrist strap to the camera. On the very bottom of the right side is a cover that opens up to … nothing. There is no function for this contraption, and it can be easily dismissed as part of the camera’s design.

Top (7.0)
The Olympus FE-300 has a raised shutter button on the right side of the top, placed slightly away from the edge of the camera. The ring around the button is the zoom lever that allows users to zoom out by pushing the lever to the left and zoom in by pushing it to the right. To the left of the zoom button is the circular grove for the small power button.

Bottom (3.0)
Half of the bottom of the FE-300 is comprised of the dual battery and memory compartment, covered by a slide door with raised text and textured ribs. The other half of the bottom includes five speaker holes above the serial number information. Off center is the tripod socket.