Like most cameras of this size, the SZ-12 Olympus Camera Charger uses contrast detection autofocus. And like most Olympus cameras, the system achieves lock extremely quickly. In fact there is no practical difference between Olympus’ technique and a phase detection system. Manual focus is not available, but the camera supports full scene auto, spot AF, face detection, and AF tracking modes.
Only evaluative and spot metering methods are available, but all shots seemed correctly exposed during our short time with the camera. The narrow opening can only achieve f/3.0 while zoomed all the way out, but zooming in allow the aperture to close into a pinhole f/20. That’s not too useful in practice, but an impressive stat for sure. Total shutter speed range is 1/1700th to 4 seconds, and exposure compensation extends +/- 2 stops in 1/3-stop intervals.
Automatic ISO settings are divided into “Auto,” which will choose from the most common value, and “High Auto,” which will use all settings including this camera’s maximum of 1600 if necessary.
We were hoping for ISO 3200 or even 6400 from this camera, especially given its dim aperture, but only a full review will reveal how much of a problem this is. If the SZ-12 Olympus Battery Charger automatic white balance isn’t working quite right, the camera supports One-touch custom white balancing right from the quick menu. Four presets are also included: Daylight, Overcast, Tungsten, and Fluorescent1, but direct Kelvin color temperature entry isn’t possible.
The SZ-12 utilizes sensor shift image stabilization, as well as a few digital techniques like increased shutter speed or ISO values to achieve clean shots. The system is very noticeable while handling the camera, and makes a big difference while framing fully-zoomed shots. Olympus’ “Magic Art Filters” are available while shooting stills and movies. There are 12 of them, including Pop Art, Pin Hole, Drawing, Miniature, and Watercolor. This company has some of the most convincing effects in the industry, and choices like Watercolor and Drawing are particularly cool.
Other than a few tweaks to this camera’s outward appearance, the SZ-12 is remarkably similar–indeed suspiciously similar to its predecessor. That is, except for zoom. When manufacturers do this, we get nervous. Longer optical zoom does not necessarily suggest better image quality; in fact the two are often inversely related. The SZ-12 appears to be a classic optical zoom cash-in. identical specs, plus a longer lens, plus a fresh coat of paint, equals profit.
Still, we’re worried about this model. Hopefully when the SZ-12 Olympus Digital Charger March release rolls around, our tests won’t have to prove–for the hundredth time–more zoom doesn’t always mean a better camera.
