Can I use Leica D Lens on the Olympus E-3

[garypasz]

As my title asks is it possible to use Leica D 14-50 f/2.8-3.5 on the E-3 as it has MEGA O.I.S. will this be compatible with E-3 own Built in Image Stabilizer system?

[Olyirrisistity]

Is the Leica D 14-50 the one that comes with the Lumix L1? If it is, then it's is compatible but with IS, use either method but not both at the same time. I've seen a video of the combination between this lens and the E-510 on the Cameralab website, I think.

[Mr. Pickles]

I have heard that it will mount up and work just fine.

I was never sure what would actually happen if both IS systems were on. My thinking would be that the camera one would try and stabilize, but wouldn't do much because the image already was stabilized by the lens. Might blow a motor or camera body, so I wouldn't ever turn both on at once if it was my setup. I'd probably use the in-lens one in this combination.

[Paul Shields]

From memory, the Leica IS will work in one particular mode on the Olympus cams. Now - I've no idea how it behaves with a camera with built-in IS, but I'd expect that turning it off on one or the other should sort it out.

[Olyirrisistity]

Gary, this is the article at Cameralabs I referred to. I think it's the info you're looking for:
Olympus E-510 with Leica D 14-50mm - Double stabilisation or double trouble

[Paul Shields]

Great link. It looks like in-body and in-lens IS works about the same in practice. I've never really found it a great benefit with my lenses that have IS as far as stable viewfinder goes, though that may be more significant on anything 300mm+. The fact that all lenses are now effectively IS, and a very good IS at that, is what makes the E-3 such an interesting option.