Having experienced the beautiful color from my E-PL1, I was eager to get an upgrade to that model. While waiting I bought a Panasonic GH2 which disappointed colorwise until I learned to customize the settings.

When the Olympus OM-D EM-5 came out I got very excited with its low noise high ISO images and superior image stabilization, which I really missed in the GH2, but put off by the form factor and annoying hum that people talked about.

When the E-PL5 came out I was thrilled to learn it had the same sensor as that in the EM-5 and started to read reviews. I wasn't crazy about the huge lcd with it's awkward limited range of motion, and lack of space for hand grip at the left side of the camera because of the large lcd and its location, but still decided to try it out because of the image quality and stabilization, although it is not as good as that of the EM-5.

After about a week of using the E-PL5 I can truly say, I like it VERY MUCH! It still feels strange to hold, but the images are so impressive that I will put up with the rest of the annoyances.

After months of use I can report I have gotten further used to the form factor and LIKE the intuitive placement of the controls, which I can use without looking at them. I have removed the triangular strap holder on the left side because it was annoying when I was holding lens barrels. I use a wrist strap on the right side.

I did buy a different screw-on handgrip for the front of the camera, which is only slightly deeper than the one included and that helped quite a bit. This is the handgrip: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/819804-REG/Olympus_V332020BW000_Large_Grip_for_E_P3.html