For Rob Smith, the freedom of digital photography has helped to develop his photographic eye and expression. "The versatility of the E-System, the range and quality of lenses, and its rugged build quality have assisted my creative growth. I often shoot in harsh dusty or sea spray conditions and the gear has never let me down."

As a youngster, Rob had some formal training in art. He attained a science degree before settling into a long career in information technology as a programmer and systems analyst - all the while practising the craft of photography as a freelance photographer.

Rob feels that his background gives him a sound understanding of the art and science of photography. Moving into the professional photography field where his passion has become his day job, his IT experience has helped him tremendously in his transition to the digital darkroom.

Rob believes that innovative camera equipment enhances a photographer's creative potential.

"These days the price and ease of use of quality camera equipment has put it within reach of more people. Arguably, it's easier to take technically sound photographs, and we see more and more photographers, both amateur and professional, producing wonderful images.

More than ever, it's important to produce images with something extra to have your work noticed in the marketplace. The E-System takes care of the technical quality for me but that's not all. The Olympus tradition of innovation provides features that open doors for creative expression.

That's important to me because that's the path I must follow. It's one thing to visualise an image and sometimes quite another to have the tools to execute it."