Hi Annie....I just found this Repair Advisory from Olympus, and it sounds exactly like what's happening with your camera (same as mine).... Hopefully your camera is within the 4 year free repair period for this defect -- sadly, mine was not.... Best wishes & blessings! Michelle

OLYMPUS C-5050 ZOOM
REPAIR SERVICE ADVISORY

It has recently come to our attention that a limited number of C-5050 Zoom cameras may
exhibit the following symptoms:

In picture taking mode, the camera will produce pictures that are of a gray or
purple tone or the pictures will be completely black. If the LCD monitor is used
to compose the picture, the preview display will also be dark.

NOTE: This problem may be accelerated if the product is frequently exposed to hot and humid
environments.

We sincerely apologize if you experience this problem. In response, Olympus Imaging America
Inc. will cover all costs involved in repair service in order to bring the product back to full
working specifications. Olympus Imaging America Inc will extend the repair service coverage
for this defect for up to four years from the purchase date of your product. The following
facilities are equipped to service Olympus digital camera products in the United States:

Olympus Imaging America Inc.
400 Rabro Drive
Hauppauge, NY 11788-4258

OR

Olympus Imaging America Inc.
1805 Holder Street, Suite 170
Cypress, CA 90630-5145

An Olympus representative will work with you to determine if your product requires service and
to provide you with complete product repair instructions if needed. Please give us a call at (888)
553-4448, Monday through Friday from 8 am to 10 pm Eastern Time. If you would like to
correspond with us via e-mail, please send your message to: [email protected]

This policy applies to products distributed in North America by Olympus Imaging America Inc.
For products distributed outside of North America, please visit the Olympus homepage
(www.olympus.com) to find the distributor in your area.