Compact LCD Mult-Function Flash for Olympus Evolt E-500 - Dedicated

In this review the Compact LCD Mult-Function Flash is evaluated as a budget-friendly, dedicated shoe mount option for Olympus Evolt E-500 users who need reliable on-camera lighting without a steep learning curve. The bottom line: it gives solid manual and TTL control, a useful guide number for small event and portrait work, and focus assist for low-light shooting, making it a sensible choice for hobbyists and shooters upgrading from a pop-up flash.

Key Features

• Dedicated shoe mount: native compatibility with Olympus Evolt cameras provides direct TTL and automatic functions so exposure adjustments are quicker on the fly.
• 8 levels of output control: precise manual power from 1/128 to 1/1 lets the user shape light for close portraits or fill flash without changing distance.
• Guide number 32: a GN of 32 meters (ISO 100, 105mm) offers enough power for small groups and moderate studio-style setups when used on-camera.
• Focus beam assist: the built-in assist lamp aids autofocus in dim conditions, reducing missed shots in low light situations.
• Versatile power options: runs on two 1.5V AA cells and accepts alkaline, lithium, NiCd or NiMH so battery availability is simple for travel shoots.
• Included protective case: the supplied flash case with belt loop makes it easy to carry and protect the unit between locations.

Who It's For

This flash is aimed at amateur and enthusiast photographers using the Olympus Evolt E-500 who want a step up from camera-built flashes. It suits portrait, event, and travel photographers who need a compact, on-camera head with both TTL convenience and full manual control for creative lighting.

Professional shooters who rely on high-power off-camera lighting or advanced multi-flash wireless setups may find the flash limiting; those users should consider dedicated studio strobes or more advanced triggering systems instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Compact dedicated shoe design offers seamless integration with Olympus Evolt cameras and instant TTL/auto operation.
• Eight-step manual power range provides fine control for exposure and creative fill without moving the flash.
• Focus beam assist improves AF performance in low-light situations, making it practical for event work.
• Runs on common AA batteries and includes a belt-loop case for easy field use.

Cons

• Guide number 32 is modest compared with larger external flashes, so reach is limited at longer focal lengths or wide apertures.
• No mention of wireless master or advanced off-camera triggering, so multi-flash setups are restricted.

Specifications

Model Type	Compact LCD Mult-Function Shoe Mount Flash
Compatibility	Designed for Olympus Evolt E-500
Guide Number	32 meters (ISO 100, 105mm)
Power Control	8 levels, 1/128 to 1/1 and TTL/M/Multi modes
Focus Assist	Built-in focus beam for low-light AF
Power Source	2 x 1.5V AA batteries (alkaline, lithium, NiCd, NiMH)
Included	Flash unit and flash case with belt loop

Our Verdict

The Compact LCD Mult-Function Flash is a practical, cost-effective upgrade for Olympus Evolt E-500 owners who need reliable on-camera flash with both TTL convenience and detailed manual control. It balances portability, useful power, and focus assist features, making it good value for hobbyists and event shooters; those needing greater reach or wireless multi-flash control should look elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this flash work on my Olympus Evolt E-500?
Yes, it is a dedicated shoe mount flash designed specifically for Olympus Evolt cameras and supports TTL and automatic functions.

What batteries does it use?
The unit runs on two 1.5V AA batteries and accepts alkaline, lithium, NiCd or NiMH types for flexible power options.

Can this flash be used off-camera or in wireless groups?
The product description lists TTL, manual and multi modes but does not indicate advanced wireless master triggering, so multi-flash wireless setups are limited.