Released in May 1973, the Olympus PEN EE-3 is part of Olympus’ impressive range of half-frame cameras. It comes with an elegant chrome-colored surface, black leather and the black viewfinder housing.
Compared to its predecessor, the PEN EE-2, the EE-3 featured several improvements. The most noticeable differentiator was the center contact hot shoe, which was a welcome upgrade. The opening of the rear wall was also made easier: a slide made it possible to open it. In addition to the simpler design of the frame counter, which automatically resets to S when the camera was opened, the serial number is now engraved on the camera base.
In terms of lens, the PEN EE-3 impresses with the D. Zuiko 1:3.5 f = 28 mm lens. This lens consists of four elements arranged in three groups.
The camera offered automatic shutter speeds from 1/40 to 1/200 seconds thanks to its Copal-X auto shutter. In addition, the PEN EE-3 offered automatic exposure, which was supported by the built-in selenium exposure meter.
It is also worth mentioning that this camera does not need a battery. A connection for a tripod and a cable release can be found on the camera. There is also a connection option for a camera strap. In addition, a flash can be connected via hot shoe or cable.
In terms of dimensions, the Japanese camera is compact and lightweight. It measures 113 x 70 x 44mm and weighs just 280 grams, making it an ideal choice for photographers looking for a portable camera on the go.
When released, the PEN EE-3 was priced at 15,800 yen, underscoring its affordability and Olympus’ commitment to offering quality at a fair price. Today you have to pay about 116,54 Euro for a used copy.
Films for the Olympus PEN EE-3
What kind of films is the Olympus PEN EE-3 designed for? This camera uses 35mm 35mm film. Such films are still available nowadays and easy to find.
Recommended film options for the Japanese camera are the Fujifilm Superia 200* for color images and the Ilford Delta 100* for black and white images. Of course, there are other types of film that can be used in this camera.
The format of the exposed area in this camera is 24mm x 18mm. About 72 photos with the compact camera fit on a normal roll of film.
There is no automatic film transport in this model, so the user has to move the film manually after each exposure. A practical thumb wheel on the back makes this manual transport easier.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Half-frame camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Film transport mechanism | Thumbwheel |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 18 mm |
| Lens name | Olympus D. Zuiko |
| Focal length | 28 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/3.5 |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Lens design | 4 elements in 3 groups |
| Viewfinder | Bright frame viewfinder |
| Exposure times | 1/200 second to 1/40 second |
| Light meter | Selenium light meter |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 400 |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Manual exposure settings | No |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | No |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Hot Shoe, PC-Flash |
| Flash sync speed | 1/40 s |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Connection for camera strap | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Size | 11,3 x 7 x 4,4 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 4.45 x 2.76 x 1.73 inches |
| Weight | 280 Grams |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 116,54 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 100 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 109,12 Euro (117.98 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 121,40 Euro (130.97 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 130,27 Euro (140.71 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Olympus PEN EE-3
What type of film does the Olympus PEN EE-3 use?
The Olympus PEN EE-3 uses standard 35mm film, readily available even today. This makes it easy to find and use various film types for both color and black and white photography.
How does the half-frame camera handle film advancement?
Unlike some cameras, the PEN EE-3 doesn't have automatic film advance. You manually advance the film using a convenient thumb wheel located on the back of the camera.
What are the camera's dimensions and weight?
The compact camera measures 113 x 70 x 44 mm and weighs only 280 grams, making it very portable and ideal for on-the-go photography.
Does this Olympus model require batteries?
No, this particular model is battery-free, relying on a selenium light meter for automatic exposure. This simplifies its use and reduces reliance on power sources.
What kind of lens does the stylish device have?
The Olympus PEN EE-3 features a D. Zuiko 1:3.5 f=28mm lens, a four-element, three-group design. This lens is well-regarded for its performance.