Olympus Camedia C-3020 3MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom

Features

  • 3.3 megapixel sensor captures enough detail to create prints up to 11 x 14
  • 3x optical plus 2.5x digital zoom lens with autofocus
  • Included 16 MB SmartMedia card holds 40 images at default resolution
  • Connects to Macs and PCs via USB port
  • Uses 4 AA or 2 disposable lithium batteries (4 AA alkalines included)

Description

Packing a wonderful combination of optical and digital features, the C-3020ZOOM assures total shooting enjoyment. It is the ideal choice for those looking for a high-quality, trouble-free start into the world of treble megapixel photography. Experienced photographers will appreciate the creative scope offered by this 3.2 million pixel camera. An ergonomically styled body with elegant aluminum front complements the superb top-performance characteristics. With this addition to the award-winning C-3000ZOOM series, Olympus proves once again that state-of-the-art technology and good looks do not have to cost the earth.Optical precision and digital excellence are the hallmarks of all Olympus CAMEDIA cameras and the attractively priced C-3020ZOOM is no exception. With an effective resolution of 3.2 million pixels and a bright (F2.8), 3x zoom lens (equivalent to 32-96 mm on a 35 mm model) consisting of eight elements arranged in six groups, it provides the perfect optical and digital basis for dazzling image results. An impressive zoom factor of up to 7.5x is possible when the optical capabilities are joined by the seamless 2.5x digital zoom.

The Olympus C-3020 is designed to be the most affordable 3-megapixel model in Olympus's C series of digital cameras. Its key features include a 3.3-megapixel sensor, 3x optical zoom lens, and SmartMedia storage.

As its model number implies, the C-3020's list of features fits between those of the discontinued C-3000 and the current C-3040. Compared to the C-3000, the 3020 adds USB direct connect--no driver software is required to transfer photos to most computers. In addition, a new noise reduction system improves image quality in low-light situations. Stepping up to the C-3040 gets you a faster, brighter lens, a larger internal memory buffer for faster shot-to-shot performance, movie mode with sound (the C-3020 records silent movies), external flash connector, remote control, and long-life disposable lithium batteries.

Like all models in the C-3000 series, the C-3020 is a powerful performer, featuring aperture priority, shutter priority, and full manual modes, plus movie mode and uncompressed TIFF shooting.

The C-3020 comes with a USB cable, carrying strap, lens cap, and retainer cord, four AA alkaline batteries, a 16 MB SmartMedia card, and a manual.

Spotlight customer reviews

Rare Item!

[ Posted: 2008-09-30 ]

Rating: 80%
 

My girlfriends was damaged in an unfortunate accident, and she loved it so dearly, she did not want to upgrade. Thanks for the old camera, she is back in business taking photos of the grand-kids!

Old technology

[ Posted: 2006-08-15 ]

Rating: 60%
 

This is a camera (similar to the C-3000) whose time has come and gone. It is old technology with a serious delay between shutter release and flash. It is very hard to take a low light picture without the person blinking due to the flash delay.

At only 3 MP, and very heavy/bulky to hold and carry, you can do much better with a more advanced newer model camera. The smart media cards the Olympus requires are very expensive (get a 128 MB but they're never on sale anymore) and fragile in contrast to the newer less expensive memory media available with other newer cameras.

Be aware that the 30-second movie clip mode does not record sound. The camera does have many features but they are not intuitive nor user friendly and most people will just point and shoot.

If you do buy this camera make sure you get a lens mount extender as you can damage the lens/motor if you accidentally turn on the camera with the lens cap on (motor makes a grinding noise).

This camera "eats" alkaline batteries, so you'll also need to get 4 NiMH batteries and a fast charger. I recently sold my C-3020 on an auction site after I bought a 5 MP Canon SD 450 from Amazon. The Canon is light years ahead of the Olympus and Amazon has an excellent price for it. You get what you pay for.

basic, but great

[ Posted: 2006-07-10 ]

Rating: 100%
 

I've had this camera for almost five years now and never once have I had any problems. It takes great pictures and is easy to use. It does eat up regular AA batteries but if you get rechargable they last for a long time. It's nothing fancy but still works wonders. Coming from someone who has had loads of experience with this particular camera I would say it is definately a good buy for someone looking for something basic but still good. The picture quality is amazing, I just uploaded three of my favorites taken on a trip to England that you can check out if you need to see for yourself.

an excellent camera

[ Posted: 2005-12-13 ]

Rating: 100%
 

There are plenty of digital cameras that are smaller, lighter, more portable than this, but I wouldn't trade this camera for any of the newer models I've seen. This one is really easy to use (especially for basic functions such as still photos, use of zoom, photo viewing, and file transfer) and the manual is well-written and easy to understand. The picture quality is excellent, and to be honest is usually a lot better than I need. I generally end up saving the files at much lower resolution than possible, and still get clear quality images. Also an extremely durable camera in my experience...I have gone through many, but have been using this one for several years now, with no troubles beyond having to change the batteries once in a while. Highly recommended.

Great Basic Digital Camera

[ Posted: 2003-12-12 ]

Rating: 100%
 

I have owned this camera for approx. 18 month and I still love it. It is one of the easiest digital cameras to get to know and use. From the first day I got it I had it out of the box and shooting right away. It's that simple. The only negative factor of the camera is the lack of a Hot Shoe Flash option. The C3020Z has several flash options for various lighting conditions; however, I have grown in my photography and require more advanced lighting options. As a starter camera this is a perfect introduction to digital photography. It has certainly helped me to expand in my Digital skills and knowledge, but as I move towards being a Professional Amateur I have out grown this model. That's my $0.02.