Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Troubleshoot An Olympus Camera

Olympus E-620








A malfunctioning camera can be a rough situation for any budding photographer. You have lined up the perfect shot with your new Olympus Digital SLR camera, you click the button, and nothing happens. Anger and frustration are sure to follow. Learning a few basic troubleshooting techniques can have you taking that perfect shot in no time.


Instructions


Instructions


1. Check the batteries first. Most modern cameras use rechargeable batteries, so charge the batteries fully and make sure you always have backups. Older cameras may still use disposable batteries, so have plenty on hand.


2. Make sure the camera is turned on. On Olympus point-and-shoot cameras, the "on" button is typically located on top of the camera body, usually in the center. On SLR cameras, it is typically located on top of the camera body, near the right side. The location varies from Olympus camera to Olympus camera, so make sure you know where the switch is on your particular camera.


3. Check the memory card. Your card may be full, or you may have forgotten to insert one into the camera. Much like the batteries, keeping a spare memory card around can be a lifesaver.


4. Make sure the camera is set to the proper mode. Most Olympus cameras, especially digital SLRs, have multiple settings for taking pictures, playing back pictures or recording video. Make sure the camera is set to the correct mode to take pictures.


5. Check the lens. Make sure your lens is free from dirt, debris or fingerprints. If you are using a point-and-shoot Olympus, make sure the lens cover is completely open. If you are using an SLR camera, check to make sure you have removed the lens cover. If you have another lens, switch the current one out and try taking a few pictures with the new lens. If you can take pictures with a different lens, you now know it is a lens issue and not a camera issue.


6. Check the flash settings. Make sure the flash settings on the camera are correct. If you are shooting in bright sunshine, you do not want the flash set to be always on. Often, it is best to set the flash to "auto" and let the camera do the work, but you may have to play with the settings yourself to get that perfect shot. Also, make sure you allow time for the flash to recharge after taking a picture, especially with point-and-shoot cameras.


7. Change your shot. If the camera appears to be functioning properly, but you are still having issues taking a picture, change your shot. If the camera is having trouble focusing, there may be too much movement in the background, or you may be too close. Try stepping back a few feet or turning off the auto-focus and manually focusing the lens. Try to avoid shooting directly into a light source, as the camera will not focus properly, and the picture will turn out poorly.


8. If all else fails, contact Olympus Customer support at (888) 553-4448, or go to olympusamerica.com.

Tags: Make sure, make sure, Make sure camera, perfect shot, sure camera, camera body