Compact35mm half-frame
beginner
Discontinued
Olympus Pen EE
1961-1966
Experimental photography
Format
35mm half-frame
Shutter
1/250
Max speed
Metering
TTL
Mechanical
Weight
390g
Best For
- Experimental photography
- Economical shooting (double frames)
- Learning with simple camera
- Vintage aesthetic
Features
- Half-frame format (72 exposures per 36exp roll)
- Selenium meter (no batteries)
- D. Zuiko 28mm f/3.5 lens
- Zone focusing
- Fully automatic exposure
Limitations
- Half-frame = smaller negatives
- Zone focus only
- Selenium meter degrades
- Limited shutter speed range
Common Issues to Check
- Selenium meter failure
- Sticky aperture blades
- Shutter issues
- Lens fungus
- Viewfinder haze
Buying Guide
The Pen series popularised half-frame photography. The EE versions are auto-exposure. Test the selenium meter in bright light - the aperture should change. Half-frame doubles your shots per roll but negatives are smaller (more grain when enlarged). The Pen F is the SLR version.
Pricing
Typical Range£40 - £100
Excellent Condition~£150
Common and affordable. Working meter important
Prices as of 2025-12. UK market, may vary.
Last verified: Jan 2026Report an error