Digital Camera Reviews » Pentax

Pentax K-x

DCT — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 02:46:55 +0000

Last update 16 November’09 – Review and Sample Photos @ Photocrati

Pentax K-x announced on September 17, 2009 is a 12.4 megapixel DSLR that features a 2.7 inch LCD, 720p HD Video, HDR Image Capture, 4.7fps, 11 Point Wide Angle Focus, Live View, Face Detection, ISO range from 200 to 6400, camera dimensions are (W x H x D): 4.8 x 3.6 x 2.7” and it weighs 18.2 oz.

Overall Rating: Note: There is a rating embedded within this post, please visit this post to rate it. | Check Price & Availability

Reviews

Review Index – (updated 16 November’09)

Photocrati
Okay, so they didn’t like all the features of the K-x, in particular, the camera needs four AAA cells for power. It would have been a lot nicer if it came with a rechargeable battery. Yes, it does come with single use lithiums and yes, they do last a long time, but hey, they are expensive. As far as photo quality, they commented that it was good if not remarkable. And the auto focus was accurate and held its own in fast paced action shots.

DigitalCameraReview
“Here is a strong competitor in the DSLR market. With a really solid build, outstanding photo quality, and outstanding overall layout the K-x delivers a great camera in the K-x. Not without a few flaws but none that put any major black marks on this great piece of gear.”

PhotoReview
“You’ll want this camera if: – You need affordability, lots of cool features, and in camera filter effects. – You’re after a big range of image in camera adjustments. – You like RAW files. – Live view is important to you. – You might occasionally shoot video. – You absolutely must have impeccable high ISO performance.”
Rating:

PhotographyBlog
“It’s small, light and is a super easy-to-use DSLR camera. The only thing that is a negative is perhaps its small size, which for a lot of people will actually be a good thing. We liked it, a lot – the Pentax K-x is our new preferred “affordable” DSLR and receives our highest rating.”
Rating:

TechRadar
“The K-x takes absolutely superb pictures, and that’s the main thing. It handles noise well and the extended ISO range isn’t just bragging on the specification sheet – there are times when it’s genuinely useful.”
Rating:

ePhotozine
“Still, using the camera was such fun with the HDR and Cross Processing modes, I never knew what I was going to get. Even simple photographs look great when they’ve been processed with a digital filter. I think if you have a few old Pentax lenses and you’re looking to go to digital or feel that your work is stagnating and you need an injection of fun, you need this camera in your life.”
Rating:

Owner Feedback

Owner Feedback

Coming soon…

Sample Photos

Sample Photos

[Sample Photos @ DigitalCameraReview]
[Sample Photos @ PhotographyBlog]
[Sample Photos @ TechRadar]

Specs

Specifications & Camera Profile

[Specifications]

Manual

Owners Manual

[Owners Manual]

Press

Press Release

GOLDEN, CO (September 16, 2009) : PENTAX Imaging Company redefines the entry-level digital SLR category with the introduction of the K-x digital SLR. This latest PENTAX camera offers high-end features including Live View and HD video. And, since there’s no rule that SLR cameras must come in black only, the K-x will be available in a choice of white or black, as well as special, limited edition red and navy.

Priced at $649.95 USD (for body with DA L 18-55mm lens), the extremely compact and lightweight PENTAX K-x forges ahead on the trail initiated by the popular PENTAX K2000. With a one-handed shooting design and simple, easy-to-use operation, the K-x is perfect for users stepping up from a point and shoot digital camera to their first digital SLR.

The PENTAX K-x offers photographic performance that challenges higher class DSLR models and offers several features that set this camera apart in the entry-level category:

- High resolution 12.4 megapixel CMOS image sensor features sensor-shift Shake Reduction for stabilized image and video capture up to 4 stops max.
- Large 2.7 inch LCD features Live View with contrast, phase difference, and Face Detection autofocus (up to 16 faces).
- Widescreen HD video capture in full 720p resolution (1280×720) at 24 FPS cinematic framerate, using any PENTAX 35mm lens.
- Creative processing and filter modes produce high quality finished images, while offering the ability to explore artistic freedom through unique special effects.
- True High Dynamic Range (HDR) image capture blends 3 bracketed images into a single picture with outstanding shadow, highlight, and midrange detail.
- Fast 4.7 FPS capture speed and 1/6000 second maximum shutter speeds are possible with the PENTAX PRIME II image processing engine.
- Responsive 11 point wide angle SAFOX VIII autofocus system focuses quickly and accurately, and can easily track moving subjects.
- Captures up to 1900 shots with universally available, easy-to-find AA lithium batteries (also compatible with AA NiMH rechargeable and alkaline batteries).

All combined, the PENTAX K-x is the perfect camera for new digital SLR camera users as well as an ideal backup camera for more experienced photographers.

Along with the K-x, PENTAX announced the smc PENTAX DA L 55-300mm F4-5.8 ED super-telephoto zoom lens. This lens will be exclusive to a K-x Twin Lens Kit package consisting of a K-x body, this new lens and the smc PENTAX DA L 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 lens. The lightweight design of this zoom lens offers the exceptional optical performance found in all PENTAX lenses for super-telephoto photography with the K-x and other PENTAX digital SLR camera bodies.

The PENTAX K-x is now available for pre-order in black or white. Limited edition colors of red and navy will become available at select locations to be announced.

The PENTAX K-x (in black and white) will ship in October 2009 in three configurations: options:

- K-x single lens kit with body and an smc PENTAX DA L 18-55mm lens for USD $649.95
- K-x twin lens kit for $749.95 including a K-x body, the smc PENTAX DA L 18-55mm lens and the smc PENTAX DA L 50-200mm zoom lens.
- K-x twin lens kit for $849.95 including a K-x body, the smc PENTAX DA L 18-55mm lens and the smc PENTAX DA L 55-300mm zoom lens

PENTAX K-x FACT SHEET

12.4 effective megapixels
The K-x incorporates a newly developed CMOS image sensor to assure high-speed image data readout and more flexibility with varying ISO sensitivity levels. With approximately 12.4 effective megapixels, this image sensor accurately reproduces true-to-life images with fine detail and rich color depth. The
K-x offers a wide sensitivity range between ISO 200 and ISO 6400 and allows users to expand the sensitivity range between ISO 100 and ISO 12800 via a custom function to offer greater creative freedom to photographers.

Compact, lightweight body
The PENTAX K-x is one of the most compact, lightweight digital SLR cameras in its class. The stainless-steel chassis and overall design offer a space-efficient layout.

Widescreen HD movie recording at 1280×720 pixels at a cinematic 24 frames per second (720p24)
The PENTAX K-x movie recording function*1 captures true-to-life movie clips in 16:9 high-definition TV proportions (1280 x 720 pixels) at a frame rate of 24 frames per second. Compatible with every PENTAX interchangeable lens ever made, the Video Capture mode opens a new world of creativity for PENTA K-x owners.

PENTAX-original SR mechanism for sharp, blur-free images
The K-x features the PENTAX-developed Shake Reduction mechanism that effectively compensates for the adverse effects of camera shake by as much as four shutter steps. This innovative mechanism extends its benefits to all PENTAX interchangeable lenses — even those designed for film-format cameras.*2 With this SR mechanism, the K-x produces sharp, blur-free images even under demanding conditions such as telephoto lens photography, shooting in dark or low-light setting without a flash illumination, and sunset scenes.

High-speed continuous shooting at approximately 4.7 images per second
The K-x’s high-speed continuous shooting mode records as many as 17 images (in JPEG recording format) at a maximum speed of approximately 4.7 images per second. This is the fastest of all entry-class models. The K-x also features a more reliable shutter unit, which passed a demanding action test of more than 100,000 shutter releases. The top shutter speed of 1/6000 second allows the photographer to preserve sharp, crisp images of fast-moving subjects.

High-performance, high-speed PRIME II imaging engine
The K-x features the newly developed PRIME (PENTAX Real IMage Engine) II, that is an upgrade of the original PRIME imaging engine. This new imaging engine offers greater data processing speed and enhanced capability to produce higher-quality images with richer, more accurate color rendition, as well as faster transmission speed of movie data.

Live View function with Face detection of up to 16 faces
In addition to the camera’s viewfinder, the K-x features a Live View function that allows users to view subjects on the LCD monitor during shooting. The K-x also offers a choice of three different focusing modes in Live View:

- Contrast Auto Focus optimizes the focus based on the subject’s contrast.
- Face Detection Auto Focus automatically detects up to 16 faces, then selects the main subject’s face from multiple faces, and captures it in sharp focus.
- Phase Difference Auto Focus accesses the AF sensor positioned in the camera body to optimize focus on the subject.

Innovative Image Processing Functions

Digital Filter function
The K-x’s digital filter function allows users to process recorded images in a variety of creative ways within the camera and produce highly creative visual expressions. With a choice of 16 different filters including Color Extract, Retro, Soft, Starburst, Toy Camera, and more (including a custom filter for building multiple effects), photographers may apply multiple filters to a single image for customized effects.

Cross Process mode
The K-x features a new Cross Process mode that automatically and randomly adds finishing touches to exposures to create eye-catching images with unique, intriguing colors (just like images treated with Cross Process*3 in film photography). This mode adds a whimsical element to digital photography since photographers don’t know the results until the captured image is actually displayed on the camera’s LCD monitor.

High-precision 11-point AF sensor
The high-precision, wide-frame SAFOX VIII autofocus system of the K-x features 11 sensor points (with nine cross-type sensors positioned in the middle) to automatically capture even off-centered subjects in sharp, crisp focus. Photographers also may select one of the sensors as a focusing point to accommodate specialized applications.

Additional features

- Custom Image modes offer high quality processing for images
- 2.7 inch, high-resolution color LCD monitor with approximately 230,000 dots of resolution
- Auto Picture mode for effortless, automatic selection of the most appropriate shooting mode, even during Live View shooting
- Status screen for easy, at-a-glance confirmation of various settings on the LCD monitor
- Ten scene modes, including Night Scene, Surf & Snow, Sunset, Kids, Museum, and more, available via simple icon selection
- PENTAX Digital Camera Utility 4 software package, with RAW-data processing and image browser functions

*1 When the PENTAX K-x’s AV output terminal is used, movie clips are viewed at normal resolution. The data must be transferred to a PC for the playback of movie clips at high-definition TV proportions (1280 x 720 pixels).
*2 Lenses compatible with this mechanism: PENTAX K-, KA-, KAF-, KAF2- and KAF3-mount lenses; screw-mounted lenses (with an adapter); and 645- and 67-system lenses (with an adapter). Some functions may not be available with certain lenses.
*3 A film development technique that takes advantage of unconventional film developers to create a distinctive finishing touch with intriguing colors.

KEY FEATURES

- High resolution 12.4 megapixel CMOS image sensor features sensor-shift Shake Reduction for stabilized image and video capture up to 4 stops max.
- Large 2.7 inch LCD features Live View with contrast, phase difference, and Face Detection autofocus (up to 16 faces).
- Capture widescreen HD video in full 720p resolution (1280×720) at 24 FPS cinematic framerate, using any PENTAX 35mm lens.
- Highly compact DSLR body design allows for 1 handed operation and comfort when travelling.
- Powerful automatic modes, including PENTAX Auto Picture and scene modes, ensure the perfect shot in any situation, while helping new photographers learn DSLR photography.
- Creative processing and filter modes produce high quality finished images, while offering the ability to explore artistic freedom through unique special effects.
- True HDR image capture blends 3 bracketed images into a single picture with outstanding shadow, highlight, and midrange detail.
- Fast 4.7 FPS capture speed and 1/6000 second maximum shutter speeds are possible with the PENTAX PRIME II image processing engine.
- Responsive 11 point wide angle SAFOX VIII autofocus system focuses quickly and accurately, and can easily track moving subjects.
- Capture up to 1900 shots with universally available, easy-to-find AA lithium batteries (also compatible with AA NiMH rechargeable and alkaline batteries).
- Expanded ISO range covers sensitivities from 100-12800 for extreme low light photography.

Pentax K-7

DCT — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 19:00:07 +0000

Last update 29 October’09 – Review and Sample Photos @ LetsGoDigital

Pentax K-7 announced on May 19, 2009 is a 14.6 megapixel sensor shift stabilized DSLR that features 720p/1080i HD video recording, magnesium/steel alloy body, 3 inch LCD, 1/8000th shutter speed, dust removal system, HDMI output, dedicated ISO button, distortion and chromatic aberration correction, adjustable dynamic range highlight and shadow correction, 3-shot in-camera HDR capture, camera dimensions are 131 x 97 x 73 mm (5.1 x 3.8 x 2.9 in) and it weighs no battery: 670 g (1.4 lb) with battery: 750 g (1.6 lb).

Overall Rating: Note: There is a rating embedded within this post, please visit this post to rate it.

Reviews

Review Index – (updated 29 October’09)

LetsGoDigital
“This camera is a real pleasure to work with. It has a fine shutter sound, and it is able to hold up under rain and sand storms. This is a unique camera with many setting options and one-of-a-kind features. Serious photographers will want to take a serious look at it . While not perfect, it is an extraordinary piece of photographic gear.”
Rating:

LuminousLandscape
“I don’t have a lot to say about the K7’s image quality or its overall appeal. It’s a competent camera and does a lot of things well and not too many poorly. Image quality is fine, but not exceptional, and maybe a bit noisier than some. The camera isn’t compelling for any reason. Almost every aspect of the camera is competent, and there are only a few failings. But it also doesn’t really excel at anything. It isn’t the fastest, the sharpest, the highest resolution, the smallest, the lightest, the fastest focusing, or have the fastest frames rates.”

CNET.uk
“The Pentax K-7 is a great camera, but you’ve got to find some decent lenses to go with it. Don’t forget that, for roughly the same price, you can get the Canon EOS 50D, and, if you up your budget, you could be looking at the Nikon D300S.”
Rating:

DPReview
“The Pentax K-7 manages to combine superb build quality, comprehensive customization options, excellent ergonomics and an extensive feature set with (for a camera in this class) very compact dimensions. This makes it a more than viable alternative for those (but not only for those) who like to work with semi-pro equipment that still leaves some space in the gear bag.”
Rating:

DCResource
“Despite a few flaws — most of them being easy to work-around — the Pentax K-7 is an excellent digital SLR, offering features normally found on cameras two or three times its price. Heck, some of the K-7’s features won’t be found on any other camera. While I doubt that folks with a lot of money invested in other D-SLR systems will be jumping ship for the K-7, owners of Pentax cameras or those just starting out will be lining up to get their hands on this camera, and well they should. The K-7 is a great camera for enthusiasts, and it easily earns my recommendation.”

WhatDigitalCamera
“The K-7 is, without a doubt, the best DSLR that Pentax has ever produced. It’ll please existing Pentax users who may be looking for faster performance, better autofocus or even a fairly solid movie mode to add to the fray. Image quality suffers noise in the upper echelons of ISO sensitivity, keeping it from producing class-leading images – though overall images are very good. The kit lens is no better than standard too, with slightly less than sharp images – a shame given the excellent resolution.”
Rating:

TheOnlinePhotographer
“There are custom image modes and digital filters that control how the JPEG engine processes images. The K-7 can process raw images in-camera and convert them to JPEGs. It also offers HDR image capture, HD movie capture, and dynamic range adjustment. The list goes on and on. This makes reviewing every available feature a formidable task; one I’m frankly not up to. Suffice it to say that the K-7 seems adaptable to all but the most extreme shooting styles and preferences.”

Trusted Reviews
“The Pentax K-7 is a superb camera, and really puts the cat among the pigeons at the top of the APS-C DSLR market. It has rugged weatherproof build quality, superb handling and offers every creative feature you could possibly want and more besides. Performance and image quality are a match for anything else in its class. It’s a tempting package for any keen amateur or semi-pro.”
Rating:

Crunch Gear
“A few things that I wish were different based on my initial hands-on with the K-7 that others may or may not agree with. The 3-inch LCD is bright and the viewing angles are tremendous, but like any other LCD, it smears from body oil and it’s a pain in the butt to clean. How about an oleophobic screen? It makes perfect sense, right? Easy to clean and I doubt any photographer wouldn’t want one. An AF-L function would have been righteous, too. AF in movie mode would have been the killer feature on the K-7.”

Imaging Resource
“Overall, the Pentax K-7 is a very high-quality digital SLR camera, offering a lot for its relatively low price. This is a camera you can learn and love, one that might spoil you forever from using another brand because its special features are so well thought out. We knew when we first held it and took our first pictures with it.”

DPExpert
“This is another fine DSLR from Pentax. We liked the lens for its optical qualities and also for its smooth mechanical feel. The camera is robust and confidence-inspiring. Images are consistently well exposed, although default saturation is a little high. The RAW files are produced in Adobe’s universal DNG format which means you don’t need any conversion utility other than Adobe Camera Raw, which is free. Highly recommended to anyone serious about photography.”

Pocket-lint
“The camera’s new kit lens is suitably sharp and benefits from the weather sealing; I used the 18-55mm kit zoom for this test and performance is very good, but in the final analysis, what we have here is a camera that is well made, provides a stunning array of features, has superb build and styling and is perfectly suited to the market into which it is pitched.”
Rating:

Neocamera
“Image quality is very good with generally low noise and high details. Color accuracy and white-balance are impressive and extremely flexible, as are image parameters for detailed control over the way images are captured. The K-7 is also a fast and responsive camera.”

PhotoReview
“Don’t buy this camera if – You’re upgrading from a digicam and want a simple DSLR camera – You want autofocusing while shooting video clips – You require fast autofocusing and focus tracking in Live View mode – You require superior high-ISO performance.”
Rating:

InfoSync
“The Pentax K-7 proved to be the company’s best performer yet as far as still image quality was concerned. We used the included Pentax Digital Camera Utility 4 to process our RAW images into the highest quality JPEG files with no image adjustments, so what you see is straight from the camera. “
Rating:

TechRadar
“Look through the viewfinder and you’re rewarded with an image that shows 100 per cent of what will be recorded by the sensor; you get 100 per cent coverage in Live View too. Speaking of Live View, this works with Contrast Autofocusing and also has a Face Detection AF mode. We found focusing in Live View was twitchy in anything other than perfect conditions, so it pays to check that the image is sharp before moving on.”
Rating:

PhotographyBlog
“Overall Pentax are onto a winner with the K-7, especially if the sensor change in the final, final version improves the noise levels at the higher ISO speeds. Current Pentax owners can be delighted that the best ever Pentax DSLR is has (almost) arrived, with the K-7 being a natural upgrade for both the Km and K20D.”
Rating:

Wired
“Speedy 5.2 frames per second. Super sturdy construction. Lots of pro features at a prosumer price. Improved battery life and 100 percent field-of-view viewfinder. Faster, more robust processor. Live View with contrast focus and face detection. Shoots 5.2 frames-per-second with shutter speed up to 1/8000. The 77-segment metering system and 11-point AF system are quick and spot on. Internal mechanical shake reduction.”
Rating:

ePhotozine
“I’m so impressed with the K-7 that I think this is one of the most exciting cameras released this year. I think this could rival the Olympus E-620 which I’m tipping as one of the best DSLRs ever made.”
Rating:

Adorama (In Camera HDR)
“In-camera HDR with the Pentax K-7 is impressive, and certainly takes a lot of the computer gruntwork, stress, frustration and reward out of the High Dynamic Range process for many a scene with a very high contrast ratio. Overall the process is very painless, and there are many practical applications where the end result is what matters most–not the process.”

Hdrlabs (First HDR Camera)
“Please, Pentax make this camera a little less smart! Why disable RAW shooting when in HDR mode? No need to make up your own 32-bit file format, just save the merged HDR images as EXR files (before tonemapping)! And in an instant you made this camera 100% more professional.”

Pocket-lint (First Look)
“It’s fair to say that the camera is feature-packed. When we first saw the initial release, we compared it to the 500D and the D5000, as the video element threw us a little, now we’ve had a good chunk of time to play with the Pentax K-7 and talk to the chaps at Pentax in the UK, it’s is fair to say that this DSLR is gunning for higher ground – i.e., the D300 and 50D.”

Ok 1000 Pentax (Hands-on Preview)
“I found the K-7 to be delightful to use (and quiet!) and I only wish that I had the chance to post-examine the pictures we were taking. However, this was an engineering sample, so I expect that Pentax was still looking to make improvements on overall image quality before it ships at the end of July.”

Demystifying Digital (Hands-on Preview)
“Though I can’t pass any official judgment on the still images or the video quality because of the camera’s pre-production status, I have to say I was impressed with what I saw even from this early version of the K-7.”

DPReview (Hands-on Preview)
“So here we have the K-7, Pentax’s latest enthusiast/semi-pro level DSLR. And a handsome creature it is, too – gone is the K20D’s slightly pudgy utilitarianism, to be replaced by a sleek, pared-down elegance. But it’s not just on the outside that things have changed: although the megapixel count remains the same, just about everything that matters has been replaced, revised or spruced-up.”

Imaging Resource (Hands-on Preview)
“The new K-7 sports a magnesium-alloy chassis, and more extensive environmental sealing than ever before. (77 seals on the body, 43 on the optional battery grip.) Combined with the new, cost-effective weathersealed lenses, the Pentax K7 offers a level of environmental protection normally only seen in high-end pro SLRs.”

Owner Feedback

Owner Feedback

Every once in a while I get a product that is “just right”. The first VW Rabbit, a Taylor Guitar, a couple of my many Macs and my Klipsch speakers come to mind. They have that extra something that makes me love them. Other brands may be as good but these products click. Add the K-7 to that short list.
Rating:

But the K7 is simply superior to everything at and below its price range. Even surpasses the ones that are a few hundred more as well.
Rating:

I’ve had my K-7 for a week now, and something about it has pleasantly surprised me pretty much everyday. The camera feels excellent; much more compact and the build quality is very high (especially compared to comparably or even slightly higher priced Canikon offerings). Autofocus is much improved, fast and more decisive. And the pictures looks fantastic! Shooting RAW with both my FA 77 f/1.8 or my DA Ltd 40mm f/2.8, the photos are great.
Rating:

[Read more owner thoughts & opinions]

Samples

Sample Photos

[Image Quality Sample @ LetsGoDigital]
[Image Quality Sample @ CNET.uk]
[Sample Photos @ DPReview]
[ISO Performance Photos @ DCResource]
[ISO Performance Photos @ WhatDigitalCamera]
[ISO Performance Photos @ Trusted Reviews]
[Image Quality Samples @ Imaging Resource]
[Image Quality Samples @ Pocket-lint]
[Image Quality Samples @ Neocamera]
[Sample Photos at InfoSync 1, 2, 3]
[Image Quality Samples @ PhotographyBlog]

Sample Video

Specs

Specifications & Camera Profile

[Specification]

Similar

Similar Cameras

Press

Press Release

May 19, 2009: HOYA CORPORATION PENTAX Imaging Systems Division is pleased to announce the launch of the PENTAX K-7 lens-interchangeable digital SLR camera. Despite its compact, lightweight body, this new model brings together a wide array of advanced functions and user-friendly features with outstanding reliability and operability. This makes it possible to enjoy high-quality digital SLR photography with great ease.

The K-7 has been developed as a high-end model of the PENTAX K digital SLR camera series. True to its series concept, it was designed not only to assure outstanding image quality, but also to provide exceptional ease and comfort of operation and the utmost satisfaction to photo enthusiasts of all levels, including advanced amateurs. After making a thorough review of all essential digital SLR camera components and functions, PENTAX has revised and upgraded many of them, including viewfinder, shutter unit, continuous-shooting capacity, and exposure and autofocus systems. Protected by a durable, high-quality metallic body, but the K-7 is designed to be extremely compact and functional — just like all other K-series models — for enhanced portability and maneuverability. In addition, it has added several user-friendly features, including video recording, high dynamic range (HDR), and automatic horizon correction. All of these make the K-7 a tremendous photographic tool, perfect for all discerning digital SLR photographers.

Major Features
Durable and functional body, smaller than any other in its class

The K-7 is built exceptional solid and durable, as its chassis is made of high-rigidity stainless-steel alloy and its housing is made of durable but lightweight magnesium-steel alloy. Thanks to 77 special seals applied to the body, it also features a dustproof, weather- and cold-resistant construction, assuring reliable operation even under harsh conditions and at a temperature as low as -10°C. It also features a newly designed shutter unit providing a top shutter speed of 1/8000 second and the outstanding durability to withstand 100,000 shutter releases. Despite all these features, the K-7 is one of the most compact and functional mid-class models in the market, because PENTAX applied all the experience and expertise in camera downsizing the company has developed from the earliest days of film-format SLR cameras.

Optical viewfinder showing nearly 100% field of view
The K-7’s glass prism finder offers an approximately 100% field of view and an approximately 92% magnification to facilitate focusing and framing operations. It also features a new Natural-Bright-Matte III focusing screen to improve focusing accuracy during manual-focus operation.

High-speed continuous shooting at approx. 5.2 images per second
The K-7’s high-speed continuous shooting mode captures as many as 40 images (in JPEG recording format) at a maximum speed of approximately 5.2 images per second, allowing the photographer to follow the movement of an active subject or preserve a sequence of the subject’s expressions.

New DR II mechanism to minimize dust spots
The K-7 comes equipped with the newly developed DR (Dust Removal) II mechanism, designed to effectively minimize annoying dust spots on recorded images, even after changing lenses in dust-prone outdoor settings. By shifting the low-pass filter located in front of the CMOS image sensor at supersonic speed using a piezoelectric element, it shakes the dust off the low-pass filter as effectively and efficiently as any other dust removal device. The K-7’s unique dust-alert system also lets the user check for dust adhering to the low-pass filter prior to actual shooting.

High-quality image reproduction

- Approximately 14.6 effective megapixels for true-to-life image reproduction
The K-7 incorporates a newly developed CMOS image sensor measuring 23.4mm by 15.6mm and featuring a high-speed, four-channel image data readout. With approximately 14.6 effective megapixels, this image sensor can faithfully and accurately reproduce fine-detailed, gradation-rich images. With the adverse effects of digital noise greatly reduced, the sensitivity can be increased from ISO 100 up to the highest level of ISO 6400 (via a custom function) without worry.
- High-performance, high-speed PRIME II imaging engine
The K-7 features the newly developed PRIME (PENTAX Real Image Engine) II, an upgrade of the original PRIME, as its imaging engine. This new imaging engine offers greater data-processing speed and produces better-quality images with richer gradation and more accurate color rendition. It also offers high-speed movie data transmission.

New 77-segment multi-pattern metering
Newly developed for the K-7, a sophisticated 77-segment multi-pattern metering system greatly improves light-metering accuracy. By accurately analyzing various types of data (such as the image’s composition and format between upright and horizontal, and the subject’s distance and magnification) transmitted from the sensors in the camera body, this system greatly improves the accuracy of exposure control.

New-generation SR mechanism for improved shake-reduction effect
The K-7 features the PENTAX-developed SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism, which effectively compensates the adverse effect of camera shake by approximately 2.5 to four shutter steps, assuring sharp, blur-free images even under demanding shooting conditions. This innovative mechanism is compatible with all PENTAX interchangeable lenses — even most of the lenses designed for film-format cameras.* Since this new-generation version can freely shift the image-sensor unit to keep it level regardless of the camera’s inclination, it also provides such user-friendly new functions as automatic level adjustment and minute angle adjustment (in the direction of up/down, right/left and clockwise/counterclockwise), helping to compose the image exactly the way the photographer wants.

Live View real-time, on-display image confirmation with Face Recognition AF and high-speed continuous shooting modes
The K-7 features the Live View function, which allows the user to view the image on the LCD monitor during shooting. You can take advantage of this convenient function not only in the Contrast AF mode, which optimizes the focus based on the subject’s contrast, but also in the Face Recognition AF mode, which automatically and accurately focuses on the subject’s face. Thanks to the newly developed diaphragm-control mechanism, the Live View function can also be used in the continuous shooting mode with the mirror at lock-up position.

High-quality still image recording at 1280 x 720 pixels; 30-frames-per-second movie recording at HD-television proportions
The K-7 adds a new movie recording function, extending the benefits of SLR photography to the world of movie shooting: For instance, reduce the depth of field to make the subject stand out, or use different lenses to create distinctive visual effects. Beautiful movie clips can recorded at different sizes — 640 x 416 pixels, 1536 x 1024 pixels, or 1280 x 720 pixels (16:9 high-definition TV proportions) — at a frame rate of 30 frames per second. The K-7 is also equipped with an HVMI terminal and an external microphone input terminal.

New 11-point wide-frame AF sensor
The K-7’s new SAFOX VIII+ wide-frame autofocus system features 11 sensor points (with nine cross-type sensors positioned in the middle). By adding a light source type to its data range, and driven by a greatly improved algorithm, this AF system assures reliable, responsive autofocus operation superior in speed and accuracy to the previous system. The K-7 also incorporates an AF-assisting spotbeam projector in its built-in flash unit to improve autofocusing accuracy in the dark.

Custom Image function to easily create desired visual effects
The K-7’s Custom Image function lets the user control the image’s finishing touch to capture their photographic intention, or reproduce the ambience of the scene. With the K-7, the user can select one of seven modes, including the new “Muted” mode designed to recreate an image with delicate, subdued colors. In addition to saturation, tone, contrast and sharpness — the factors previously available — it is now possible to adjust “key” and “contrast highlight/shadow” to the desired levels. The effects of these factors can be effortlessly confirmed on a preview image using the Digital Preview or Live View function before finalizing the settings.

Versatile exposure system for faithful reproduction of creative intentions

- Hyper Program function
The K-7’s Hyper Program function allows the user to instantly switch to the Shutter- or Aperture-Priority AE mode from the Programmed AE mode, with a simple turn of the electronic dials on the grip. To return to the Programmed AE mode, simply press the green button positioned next to the shutter release button.
- Hyper Manual function
When shooting in Manual mode, a single push of the green button allows the user to instantly set the proper exposure for the subject.
- Sensitivity-Priority mode
The K-7 features a unique Sensitivity-Priority (Sv) mode, which is designed to automatically select the optimum combination of aperture and shutter speed for a user-selected sensitivity. The sensitivity can be shifted instantly in 1/2 or 1/3 steps by turning the electronic dial on the back panel.
- Shutter/Aperture-Priority mode
Taking full advantage of the unique capability of digital cameras permitting automatic shift of sensitivity at any time, the Shutter/Aperture-Priority (TAv) mode automatically selects the most appropriate sensitivity for a user-selected shutter-speed/aperture combination. It allows the user to experiment with a greater range of photographic expressions with great ease.

Large, easy-to-see 3.0-inch wide-view LCD monitor with approximately 920,000 dots
The K-7 features a large 3.0-inch color LCD monitor with approximately 920,000 dots on its back panel. Its wide-view design allows the photographer to check the monitor image from approximately 170 degrees both vertically and horizontally, facilitating low- and high-angle shooting using the Live View function.

Powerful rechargeable battery
The K-7 is powered by a large-capacity, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which can capture approximately 980 images** when fully charged.

Other features

- HDR (high dynamic range) function to create one composite image with an extra-wide gradation range from three images with different exposures
- Dynamic-range expansion function to compensate for both white-washed (overexposed) and blacked-out (underexposed) areas
- Digital level function for easy checking of the image’s levels
- Automatic compensation of distortion and lateral chromatic aberration (available only with DA- and DFA-series lenses)
- White balance control, featuring a new CTE mode to emphasize the color components of sunse t scenes and a new incandescent-tinted fluorescent light mode
- Multi-exposure function, with a superimposition of already-recorded images on the LCD monitor for at-a-glance comparison
- Attachment of copyright credits on recorded images
- RAW button for single-action switching of image file format
- 16 digital filters to add a range of visual effects; a new function to record an overwritten history also available
- Color-specific control buttons/dials for easy recognition and quick access, based on the universal color design
- PENTAX Digital Camera Utility 4 software package, including a RAW-data processing application (based on the popular SILKYPIX RAW-data processing engine developed by Ichikawa Soft Laboratory) and a browser application

Optional accessory
Battery Grip D-BG4

Exclusively designed for the PENTAX K-7 camera body, the Battery Grip D-BG4 is powered by either a rechargeable lithium-ion battery or six AA-size batteries. Since it supplements the camera’s battery as an additional power source, the number of recordable images is greatly increased. To facilitate vertical-position shooting, this grip features extra shutter-release button, preview lever, electronic dials, AE-lock button, Green button and AF button. It also provides the same dustproof, weather- and cold-resistant construction as the camera body itself.

Pentax Optio W80

DCT — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 18:05:00 +0000

Last update 27 October’09 – Review and Sample Photos @ Steve’s Digicams

Pentax Optio W80 announced on June 25, 2009 is a 12.1 megapixel compact digital camera that is certified waterproof at depths of up to 5 meters for two hours. Features include shockproof for drops of up to 3.3 feet (1m) and coldproof up to -10 degrees Celsius, 5x optical zoom, 2.5″ LCD, and includes features such as HD movie recording and Pixel Track digital Shake Reduction.

Overall Rating: Note: There is a rating embedded within this post, please visit this post to rate it. | Check Price & Availability

Reviews

Review Index – (updated 27 October’09)

Steve’s Digicams
“This is one versatile compact camera, with the added weatherproofing it can can go pretty much any where and under any conditions. Plus it’s loaded with great features. Performance is very good, but image quality suffers a little due to a fair amount of noise in our test shots.”

ITReview
“If you need a tough little compact digital for that scuba holiday or a bit of snowboarding, then this upgrade from Pentax is certainly rugged enough, but for the price the overall quality of the images – except those taken underwater – is unexpectedly disappointing.”

PhotographyBlog
“The camera did handle chromatic aberrations well, and the 1cm macro mode is a real highlight, but you may not be able to literally see past the noise that will afflict virtually all the images that you’ll take. Which is a real shame, because otherwise we’d be recommending the Pentax W80 more strongly as a great all-round point and shoot camera that is also very competitively priced.”
Rating:

PCMag
“If you live where the weather is always sunny (and you don’t plan on shooting indoors), so you can park the camera’s ISO setting at 100 and leave it there, the $300 Pentax Optio W80 is a fine choice.”
Rating:

RegHardware
“So there you have it: if you’re looking for a camera to use in the great outdoors and, in particular, underwater then the Optio W80 is a good choice when it comes to standing up against the elements. You can use this camera on a beach, up a mountain or below water, safe on the knowledge that the Optio W80 will come to no harm, provided you don’t do anything silly. A pity though, that the resulting images may not look so robust.”
Rating:

CNET UK
“Putting aside the lens issue, the Pentax Optio W80’s picture quality is still pretty average, and its over-reliance on its menu system makes it a drag to use. Enhancements to the design mean the W80 can now tough it out with the best of its rivals, like the 8000, D10 and FT1, but the build and finish still don’t quite feel in the same league.”
Rating:

Owner Feedback

Owner Feedback

Coming soon…

Sample Photos

Sample Photos

[Image Quality Samples @ Steve's Digicams]
[Image Quality Samples @ PhotographyBlog]
[Sample Photos @ PCMag]
[Sample Photos @ RegHardware]
[Sample Photo @ CNET UK]

Specs

Specifications & Camera Profile

[Specifications]

Manual

Owners Manual

[Owners Manual]

Press

Press Excerpt

GOLDEN, CO (June 24, 2009) : The manufacturer that builds digital cameras to go boldly where none have gone before has announced the PENTAX Optio W80. More adventure-proof than ever, this latest PENTAX digital camera is waterproof, dustproof, coldproof, and now shockproof enough to withstand impact from a fall of more than three feet (one meter).

PENTAX first introduced dunkable digital cameras in 2003 to the delight of outdoor enthusiasts, travelers and families everywhere. Today, the PENTAX Optio W80’s waterproof design withstands depths of up to 16 feet (5 meters) to protect from rain and spills, as well as allowing full underwater photos and video for up to two hours. On dry land, the rugged, shockproof design protects against drops of up to 3.3 feet to protect the camera from hard use and occasional spills. Also featuring 12.1 megapixels, a 5X internal optical zoom (equivalent to 28-140mm), a slim one inch body, and a wide angle 28mm lens, the Optio W80 offers an expanded perspective that is ideal for landscape, group and more confined shots. With a PENTAX-developed imaging engine and a high-performance PENTAX zoom lens, the Optio W80 delivers brilliant, high-quality images with well-defined details. A Super Protect (SP) coating applied to the mineral crystal cover of the internal zoom lens helps repel water, grime and finger marks.

Available in Cardinal Red, Azure Blue and Gunmetal Gray, the Optio W80 will be available in July 2009 for $299.95 USD. To help keep the Optio W80 fresh and at hand, PENTAX offers a custom designed clear protective skin ($16.95 USD) and a comfortable floating wrist strap ($19.95 USD).
Features

Enhanced rugged performance
With the most water and airtight external joints ever, PENTAX has improved the Optio W80’s underwater performance to more than 16 feet for up to two hours of continuous operation. Along with this outstanding JIS Class 8 waterproof rating, the Optio W80 provides JIS Class 6 dustproof and coldproof performance for reliable operation at temperatures as low as 14 degrees F (–10 degrees C).

New shockproof performance
With shock-absorbent material positioned throughout the Optio W80’s rigid and durable interior design, the Optio W80 will withstand impact from a fall from a height of more than three feet (one meter)* without damage to the body for reliability even in harsh shooting conditions.

Optical 5X zoom lens for excellent zoom coverage from wide angle to telephoto
The Optio W80 features an optical 5X zoom lens covering focal lengths from 28mm wide angle to 140mm telephoto. With this wide zoom range, the Optio W80 may be used for a variety of challenging subjects and scenes including landscapes, architecture, large group shots and tight snapshots from a distance. For a tighter zoom on subjects, an Intelligent Zoom function extends the zoom range to approximately 31.3X.

High-quality HD-Widescreen movie recording
The Optio W80 captures beautiful, flawless, high-definition movie clips at 16:9 TV proportions (1280 x 720 pixels)** at a frame rate of 30 frames per second. The camera also is equipped with advanced features designed to facilitate high quality movie recording:

* Movie SR (Shake Reduction) mode automatically compensates camera shake during movie shooting
* Underwater Movie mode automatically optimizes color for underwater movie shooting.

Auto Picture mode for automatic selection of eight different shooting modes
The Optio W80 features the PENTAX-original Auto Picture mode, which automatically selects the most appropriate shooting mode for a given subject or scene by detecting the subject’s lighting and other conditions. This user-friendly feature chooses the best mode choice for the photographer (from Landscape, Portrait, Night Scene, Night Scene Portrait, Flower, Sport, Standard and Candlelight modes).

Automatic Face Detection of up to 32 faces in a mere 0.03 seconds
The Optio W80 features the advanced Face Detection AF & AE function for more accurate people shots. This function automatically detects up to 32 faces in the image field, and then optimizes focus and exposure settings in about 0.03 seconds. The Optio W80 is also equipped with the Smile Capture mode, which automatically releases the shutter the moment the camera detects the subject’s smile and a Blink Detection function, which warns the photographer if a subject’s eyes close at the time of shutter release.

Large LCD monitor for effortless outdoor viewing
The Optio W80 features a large 2.5 inch high-brightness color LCD monitor with approximately 230,000 dots. This monitor is treated with a special AR (Anti-Reflection) coating to cut the glare of external light and minimize annoying reflections, making it easy to view recorded images even in bright sunlight.

Pentax X70

DCT — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 18:16:49 +0000

Last update 23 October’09 – Review @ GoodGearGuide

Pentax X70 announced on March 2, 2009 is an image stabilized 24x optical zoom(equiv.): 4.6-110.4mm (26-624mm) 12 megapixel ultra zoom digital camera that features 2.7 inch LCD, 11 frames per second continuous shooting, face detection, super macro mode, ISO high of ISO 3200-6400 5M, and camera dimensions are (W x H x D): 4.4 x 3.2 x 3.9”
weight without battery or removable memory: 13.8 oz, Loaded and ready: 14.5 oz.

Overall Rating: Note: There is a rating embedded within this post, please visit this post to rate it. | Lowest Price

Reviews

Review Index – (updated 23 October’09)

GoodGearGuide
“Why does the X70 stand out? Its small size, low weight, 11 frames per second rapid-fire mode, and ease of use. It’s smaller and lighter than most every other camera in its class. Although I did feel its small size gave it a slightly fragile feel, it was cool being able to throw the camera into my backpack or sling it around my shoulder. Just make sure you purchase a backup rechargeable battery to pack along.”
Rating:

PCW
“In operation the zoom travelled smoothly and speedily through its range, meaning it was hard to frame zoomed shots exactly. Still, pictures were sharply focused and colourful, despite occasional softness at maximum zoom and purple fringing visible in brighter scenes. It’s not perfect but Pentax’s X70 affords more creative possibilities than the standard snapper and is easy to use for anyone trading up from a pocket compact camera.”
Rating:

ITReviews
“The first dip into the ‘bridge’ camera water for Pentax has produced a surprisingly lightweight and feature-heavy DSLR-styled camera with high quality stills and an efficiently anti-blur 24x optical zoom, but disappointing HD movie results.”

Pocket-lint
“If it’s a camera that will slip into your top pocket or take slightly crisper images overall, then look elsewhere. But if a long lens is your chief concern, then the Pentax X70 offers an easy and affordable route to capturing candid, fly-on-the-wall style shots.”
Rating:

PhotographyBlog
“There’s no doubting that having such an extensive lens reach at your disposal shoehorned into a relatively compact and lightweight chassis has its advantages. And once you’ve used the likes of Pentax X70 to achieve a wider range of compositions than you would normally with either a compact or standard lens kit DSLR, returning to either (with a typical 3x reach) feels like a step backwards.”
Rating:

Neocamera
“Overall, the Pentax X70 does well. Being happy with it means understanding its limitations but as an outdoor camera with an incredible reach, it is a good one. Add the occasional use of its HD video-recording feature to the mix and its versatility shines.”

CNET
“There’s no doubt that the Pentax X70’s lens is a lot of fun and other than the crippled HD movie capture and lack of a full-resolution burst mode, it has plenty of shooting options. If your photos are going to only be seen on a computer screen or made into 4×6-inch prints with an occasional 8×10, you’ll likely be more than satisfied with its photo quality, too. The laggy performance is the only other major issue, but again, if you’re shooting slow-moving or still subjects, even that’s not much of a hindrance.”
Rating:

MacWorld
“What makes the Pentax X70 stand out? Its compact size, light weight, 11 fps rapid-fire mode, and terrific usability. The X70 is smaller and lighter than nearly every other camera in its class; depending on your hand size, that might be either good or bad. Although its diminutive size gives it a slightly fragile feel, it’s nice to be able to tuck the camera into a backpack or throw it over a shoulder and hardly know it’s there.”
Rating:

PhotoReview
“Buy this camera if: – You’re looking for an ultra-zoom digicam with good wide-angle coverage, plenty of adjustable controls, in-camera editing and effective image stabilisation. – You want manual flash adjustment plus a good range of flash settings. – You want to shoot widescreen video for playback on an HD TV set. – You’d enjoy taking very close ‘macro’ shots.”
Rating:

PCWorld
“So what makes the X70 stand out? Its compact size, low weight, 11fps rapid-fire mode, and terrific usability. The Pentax X70 is smaller and lighter than nearly every other camera in its class–depending on your hand size, that might be either good or bad.”
Rating:

DCResource (As compared to the Kodak EasyShare Z980, Olympus SP-590UZ, Nikon P90)
“What I didn’t like: Redeye, LCD on the small side, poor battery life, no full resolution continuous shooting, slowest shutter speed 4 seconds, face detection worst in the group, choppy frame rate at highest movie resolution, no optical IS in movie mode, no diopter correction for EVF, dated menu system, plastic tripod mount, can’t access memory card while using tripod.”

Trusted Reviews
“The Pentax X70 is a good quality camera from one of the big names in the business, and is capable of producing good pictures over a huge zoom range thanks to an excellent image stabilisation system. It handles well, and is smaller and lighter than most of its competitors, however it has a serious problem with noise even at moderate ISO settings, and the limited battery duration is also a negative point.”
Rating:

Steve’s Digicams
“This is not only a easy to use digicam, but also a very capable photographic tool. The only issues I had with this model were the “wobbly” lens unit, uncomfortable EVF eye piece and the poor battery life. Those issues, aside, I feel the Pentax Optio X70 is a worthy competitor in the mega-zoom category, offering a good balance of features and performance in the sub US$400 price range.”

DigitalCameraReview
“Depending on your experience with photography and your budget, the X70 is a worthy competitor in the growing ultrazoom market, and after using quite a few over the years, this camera by far exceeds where the others have failed. If you have the dough to move up to DSLR photography, then by all means do it. Nothing beats a good DSLR. If you’re a dedicated shutterbug and want a camera with all the focal power you’ll ever need in one place, the X70 is your camera.”

ePhotozine
“For the first camera in the superzoom range, Pentax have done quite well. I think they’ve started as they mean to go on by putting one of the largest zooms available in the camera. A lot of the other features are found on basic compacts and I think are simply there to bulk the camera out and keep it uniform with the rest of the range.”
Rating:

CNET Video

Owner Feedback

Owner Feedback

[Owners thoughts & opinions]

Samples

Sample Photos

[Sample Photos @ Pocket-lint]
[Image Quality Samples @ PhotographyBlog]
[Sample Photos @ Neocamera]
[ISO Performance Photos @ CNET]
[Sample Photos @ DCResource]
[ISO Performance Images @ Trusted Reviews]
[Sample Photos @ Steve's Digicams]

Specs

Specifications & Camera Profile

[Specifications]

Manual

Owners Manual

[Owners Manual]

Similar

Similar Cameras

Press

Press Release

GOLDEN, CO. March 2, 2009: PENTAX Imaging Company has announced the PENTAX X70 Megazoom digital camera featuring a high magnification 24X optical zoom lens with wide-angle to super-telephoto coverage housed in a highly portable, compact, lightweight body. With 12 megapixels, SLR-like styling and flexible exposure modes, the PENTAX X70 is a true bridge between compact digital cameras and digital SLRs. The X70 is the ideal camera for the intermediate to advanced shooter who wants to step up in form and function from digital compact offerings without the size, weight, and expense of a true DSLR camera.

The X70 offers photographers the ease-of-use of a compact camera with powerful shooting options traditionally found on a DSLR, such as aperture/shutter priority and metered manual modes, true hardware sensor-movement Shake Reduction, fast operation, and a high quality zoom lens. This new model performs superbly and effortlessly in a variety of photographic situations from casual day-to-day snapshots to travel and sports photography.

Also announced is the smc PENTAX DA 15mm F4 ED AL Limited ultra wide-angle lens for PENTAX Digital SLR Cameras. This latest model in PENTAX’s acclaimed Limited Lens series inherits all the attributes of this renowned product line including high quality image reproduction and high grade aluminum lens barrel finish, while providing users with a unique ultra wide-angle perspective. The lens will ship in April 2009 for $649.95 USD, while the PENTAX X70 will ship in April 2009 for $399.95 USD.

Versatile 24X optical Megazoom lens accommodates a range of subjects
Within a compact, lightweight body, the X70 features a high magnification optical 24X zoom lens offering a focal-length coverage between a wide-angle 26mm to a super telephoto 624mm (in the 35mm format). This is ideal for wide-angle scenic shots or group photos, as well as getting closer to the action at a sporting event. Coupled with the Intelligent Zoom function, the X70 zoom range may be extended to approximately 150 times (for a focal length of an astonishing approximately 3900mm in the 35mm format) without compromising the optical performance of the zoom lens.

High image quality
With 12.0 megapixels, a high-performance imaging engine, and the high quality PENTAX Megazoom lens, the X70 delivers super clear, high quality images in any shooting mode. Images at 12.0 megapixels are also suitable for printing at most large print sizes including 8×10, 11×17 and even larger poster size prints.

Large, easy-to-view 2.7 inch color LCD monitor
The PENTAX X70 features a large, bright 2.7 inch color LCD monitor with approximately 230,000 dots of resolution. An Anti-Reflection coating helps minimize glare from sunlight for more effective outdoor viewing. Also, the X70 comes with an electronic viewfinder for easy image composition and review in the brightest lighting conditions. You can also access the camera’s menus and other functions via the electronic viewfinder, so you will always be able to change settings no matter how bright it is outdoors.

Compact, lightweight design
The compact, lightweight design of the X70, one of the smallest and lightest cameras in it’s class, make it easy to transport and use. However, the small size does not mean features are compromised. The X70 includes a full range of automatic and manual features and functions.

Reliable Shake Reduction for sharp, blur-free images
The X70 incorporates an “image sensor shift” Shake Reduction system to assure sharply focused, blur-free images even under demanding photographic conditions such as when shooting at full telephoto or when shooting a sunset or indoor scenes with very low light. By accurately detecting the amount of camera shake using a high-performance gyro sensor and shifting the CCD image sensor vertically and horizontally at high speed, the X70 offers an outstanding camera-shake compensation effect, equivalent to approximately three shutter steps.

High-speed Continuous Shooting mode to capture the decisive moment
The X70 lets the photographer capture the subject continuously at a maximum speed of approximately 11 images per second and up to 21 images in succession.* Coupled with the Auto-Tracking AF mode that keeps a fast-moving subject in focus all the time, the X70 is sure to capture that once in a lifetime, decisive moment in sharp focus. The X70 is perfect for shooting sports action and active children and pets.

Fast Face Detection AF&AE captures up to 32 faces in focus in approx. 0.03 seconds
The X70 Face Detection function is effective for capturing casual snapshots of people by optimizing the focusing and exposure of up to 32 faces in a single image in approximately 0.03 seconds. The X70 also offers other user-friendly functions including Smile Capture which automatically releases the shutter the instant it detects the subject’s smile, and Blink Detection which warns the photographer when the subject’s eyes are closed at the moment of capture.

Movie capture in high-definition TV image quality with anti-shake protection
The X70 captures high quality movie clips, equivalent in image quality to that of high-definition TV (1280 x 720 pixels) at 15 frames per second. The X70 also features Movie SR mode,** which effectively minimizes annoying camera shake during movie capture. The X70 can also record video at 848×480, VGA and QVGA resolutions at 30 frames per second, for full video capture flexibility. As a result, the photographer enjoys high-quality, blur-free movie shooting with minimal effort.

Multi-mode exposure system
The X70 offers a choice of four exposure modes: Programmed AE, in which the camera automatically selects the optimal combination of aperture and shutter speed for a given subject and Aperture Priority AE, Shutter Priority AE and full Metered Manual modes, in which photographers are free to select either (or both) aperture and shutter speed to suit their photographic needs.

Auto Picture mode for the automatic selection of seven different shooting modes
The X70 features the advanced PENTAX Auto Picture mode, which automatically selects the most appropriate shooting mode for a given subject or scene by detecting the subject’s lighting, movement and other conditions. This user-friendly mode not only makes the right mode choice for the photographer (from Landscape, Portrait, Night Scene, Night Scene Portrait, Flower, Sport and Standard modes), but also features an Auto Macro mode, which automatically switches the camera’s focus range to macro in close-range applications.

Auto sensitivity control up to a high ISO of 6400
The X70 comes equipped with an Auto Sensitivity Control function, which automatically shifts the sensitivity level in relation to the subject’s lighting condition and the lens focal-length setting. This allows the photographer to use a high shutter speed in dimly lit locations, such as night scenes or indoor sports events to effectively minimize camera shake and subject blur. The auto sensitivity control range can be set between ISO 50 and ISO 6400, and is range adjustable.

Pentax K2000

DCT — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 18:10:26 +0000

Last update 23 October’09 – Review and Sample Photos @ GoodGearGuide

Pentax K2000/K-m was announced September 22, 2008 and is a 10 megapixel image stabilized DSLR digital camera and it features a dust removal system, continuous shooting at approx. 3.5 frames per second, 5 point auto focus, and an ISO range of 100 up to 3200. Camera dimensions are 122.5mm x 91.5mm x 67.5mm (4.8 x 3.6 x 2.7 in) and it weighs 525g (18.5 oz.).

Overall Rating: Note: There is a rating embedded within this post, please visit this post to rate it. | Lowest Price

Review Index – (updated 23 October’09)

GoodGearGuide
“Overall, despite the Pentax K2000’s near perfect image quality and what the company has done to make this model appealing and easy to use, we find it difficult to recommend the K2000 with a full endorsement because of its focusing problems. If you have an a lot of Pentax lenses, you would be better off spending money on a higher-end Pentax model.”
Rating:

Shutterbug
“It’s a camera that produces great image quality, wrapped around a well-built camera with built-in special effects capability. It allows you to produce photos that have style and panache and, more importantly, fun! The K2000 would be my first recommendation for any young photographer just getting into photography, much as the storied K1000 was oh-so many years ago.”

CNET Asia
“The K-m is a decent dSLR which can produce very good pictures but we were let down by its inconsistent metering and white balance performance. In these two aspects, the Canon and Nikon fared better, but in general, the Pentax was able to hold its ground against the big boys.”
Rating:

DPExpert
“If you can live with the RAW file system – and that, after all, is the way to get better images with any camera – then the Pentax is a fine camera. And the supplied Silkypix RAW converter is excellent. This is a low cost entry into the serious photographic world of the DSLR. It’s a lot of camera for the money.”

CNET
“If you’re a longtime Pentax shooter with a shelf full of lenses, a cheap K2000 body is a good way to finally move to digital; they should all be compatible, albeit with limitations depending upon the lens. (Check the manual for specifics about compatible functions.) With its aggressive price, as long as you’re flexible and intrepid enough to play with the settings before shooting, the Pentax K2000 is a pretty good option.”
Rating:

DigitalCameraInfo
“The only area where we’d hesitate to shoot with the K2000 would be fast action, given the relatively slow burst rate and so-so autofocus speed. We were pleasantly surprised at how well the body is built, especially after working with the relatively insubstantial (though photographically fine) Canon Rebel XS.”

InfoSync
“The Pentax K2000 has the ability to capture exceptional images, and some of our favorite shots in infoSync history were snagged with this camera. There are a few caveats, though, the first being the fact that this is a manual control-thirsty machine that required a lot of Shutter Speed and Aperture surveillance.”
Rating:

DevHardware
“The new Pentax K200D might suffer from a slight lack of polish and new technology, especially in comparison to its more sleek competitors, but entry-level DSLRs aren’t usually the place for cutting edge technology introductions anyhow. Its rugged design and ease of use will prove to be the perfect accompaniment for shooters looking to develop their photography skills and purchase a reasonably priced camera that they can not only practice new techniques on, but keep around for a few solid years.”

TrustedReviews
“The Pentax K-m is a good first camera. It has better build quality than most of its rivals, it handles and performs well, and is capable of producing excellent results even in the hands of a novice, while still having enough features and custom options to satisfy more experienced photographers. The only real problem is the annoying lack of AF target points in the viewfinder, which is both confusing and inconvenient.”
Rating:

Digital Trends
“Color quality in RAW was just okay, but we loved the fast motor, the fact that the camera was rugged enough for winter shooting, and the scene modes are handy and worked well. The K2000 is also a great buy: it includes a 18-55mm kit lens and a Pentax AF200FG external flash unit for just $600.”
Rating:

GoodGearGuide
“The Pentax K2000 is a fast camera, powering on in 0.7sec and releasing the shutter in 0.04sec. Burst mode captures images at around 3.5 frames per second, which is par for the course. Sitting roughly on par with models from Nikon and Canon, but with the advantage of a slightly lower price-tag, the Pentax K-m digital SLR is a good choice for a beginner.”
Rating:

PCMag
“The K2000 may be an entry-level D-SLR, but for the most part it doesn’t compromise on speed. I was able to turn it on and pull off a shot in a blazing-fast average of 0.58 second. The Pentax K2000 is a solid choice if you’re looking for basics like speed and sharp images in good light, and its Help button can be a valuable guide for those new to D-SLR photography.”
Rating:

StevesDigicams
“They have made the process of switching from a point and shoot as seamless as possible and the INFO (?) button is a great first hand teaching tool for you to learn the camera. With overall good performance, very good quality and a MSRP of US$699, this is worth looking into if you are looking for your first dSLR.”

RegHardware
“Pentax have put together a nice package of features at a nice price, without compromising performance to any large degree. If the K-m doesn’t force other camera manufacturers to raise their game in the entry-level DSLR sector, we’ll eat our collective hats.”
Rating:

Megapixel
“The K2000 delivers excellent photographs in a variety of situations. Outdoor shots were terrific. Indoor shots were fine, too. The K2000’s exposure and focusing systems were undaunted by lighting conditions of every stripe and were able to capture the nuances of scenes with arresting fidelity.”
Rating:

DPReview
“It does an excellent feature set with a fairly fundamental flaw (the inability to easily check or select the focus point being used) that we consider to be serious enough to be a deciding issue. The lack of focus point indication is also, crucially, something that we feel the target market (the first time buyer) would benefit from (small viewfinders and slow zooms don’t make it easy to spot when the camera hasn’t focused where you want it to).”
Rating:

PhotoReview
“Test shots taken in dim lighting with and without flash showed little visible noise right up to ISO 800. Stepping up to ISO 1600 produced a noticeable increase in granularity and some blotchiness was evident in the darker areas of the picture. By ISO 3200, both colour and pattern noise were visible and shots were visibly blotchy.”
Rating:

Digital Camera Review As compared to the Nikon D60
“If you’re looking for a camera that you can grow into and explore settings with, or a camera that lets you experiment cost-effectively with various lenses, the K2000 is a fantastic new option and a great value besides, given all the new tech it packs in. If you’re wanting a DSLR to ease the transition from your point-and-shoot – a rock solid performer that does its thing without fuss – the D60 is probably the compact DSLR for you.”

Digital Camera Review
“Since my day-to-day cameras are a Pentax K10D and Pentax *ist DL, I was curious how the K2000 would compare. I expected the camera to perform better than the *ist DL but fall short of the K10D. Sure enough, the K2000 performed almost exactly as expected. In short, this is one amazing little camera.”

TechRadar
“You don’t get illuminated AF points, alas, and although the K-2000’s 5-point AF system is a little more sophisticated than the 3-point systems in the Nikon D60 and Olympus E-420, say, there’s very little advantage if the AF points aren’t highlighted in any way.”
Rating:

Pocket-lint
“Despite the limited flash performance, this is a well-priced, simple to use DSLR. It’s one capable of good results too and that will help the transition from compact to lens interchangeable photography much easier and affordable.”
Rating:

ePhotozine
“The noise performance is good although I feel it’s been capped too low, the new UI works well and although it’s a little on the heavy side, it feels great in the hands.”
Rating:

PopPhoto (First Look)
“Overall, the K2000 stacks up strongly against its competitors. We find the menubased control system more intuitive than some others — just one of the details that makes Pentax a favorite among savvy photographers who watch what they spend.”

PhotographyBlog
“We’re big fans of built-in image stabilization, a great feature that’s easy for beginners to understand, and which only the Sony A200 also offers.”
Rating:

DPReview (Hands-on Preview)
“It uses the K200D’s sensor but comes with a simplified control layout (geared towards users coming from compact cameras) and a less sophisticated AF-system (5 points vs 11 on the K200D). The K-m also lacks the K200D’s weather-sealing but in turn you get an ISO 3200 setting and slightly quicker continuous shooting.”

Owner Feedback

[Owner Feedback & Insights]

Sample Photos

[ISO Performance Photos @ CNET]
” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>ISO Performance Photos @ CNET Asia]
[ISO Performance Photos @ CNET]
[Sharpness Sample Photo @ DigitalCameraInfo]
[Sharpness Sample Photo @ InfoSync]
[Sample ISO Test Photos at TrustedReviews]
[Sample Photos at RegHardware]
[Sample Photos at Megapixel]
[Sample Photos at DPReview]
[Sample Photos at Pocket-lint]
[Sample Photos at PhotographyBlog]

Specifications

[Specifications]

Press Excerpt

PENTAX U.K. is pleased to announce the launch of the PENTAX K-m digital SLR camera. Designed primarily for entry level digital SLR photographers, it offers simplified, user-friendly operation, and an easy-to-maneuver compact, lightweight body.

The PENTAX K-m was developed to enable first-time digital SLR users and family photographers to enjoy high-quality digital SLR photography with ease. The camera features an upgraded version of the PENTAX-original Auto Picture mode, which automatically detects the type of subject or scene, and sets the proper shooting mode for the photographer. It also features a host of advanced features and sophisticated functions — including the innovative in-body Shake Reduction mechanism — to assist the photographer. It also offers a compact, lightweight body, designed by incorporating PENTAX’s advanced downsizing technologies.

Along with the PENTAX K-m, PENTAX will also launch two DA L-series interchangeable zoom lenses: the smc PENTAX-DA L 18-55mmF3.5-5.6AL and the smc PENTAX-DA L 50-200mmF4-5.6ED. Designed for exclusive use with PENTAX digital SLR cameras, these DA L-series lenses are designed to be more compact and lightweight than conventional counterparts, without sacrificing any of the exceptional optical performance common to all PENTAX lenses.*

Pentax Optio P70

DCT — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 13:48:04 +0000

Last update 20 July’09 – Review and Sample Photos @ PhotographyBlog

Pentax has announced the 12 megapixel Optio P70 digital compact camera. Features include 4x wide angle zoom, 2.7 inch LCD, pixel track shake reduction, advanced face recognition, smile capture and blink detection.

Overall Rating: Note: There is a rating embedded within this post, please visit this post to rate it. | Lowest Price

Reviews

Review Index – (updated 20 July’09)

PhotographyBlog
“The Pentax Optio P70 is a promising but ultimately flawed point-and-shoot camera. It has one big problem, namely the agonisingly slow image processing and general operational speed.”
Rating:

MacWorld
“Despite a few compromises, the Optio P70 offers good value for a small, light camera that you can carry anywhere. Considering its12-megapixel sensor, the camera delivers rather lackluster image quality, but it’s certainly adequate for the price. Though the Optio P70 lacks a few frills, it is a good value for a stylishly thin point-and-shoot.”
Rating:

ePhotozine
“Pentax have managed it again using the stackable lens system to get a larger zoom into a thin body and the Optio P70 is another display of their talent for this kind of thing. However, they need to address more pressing issues such as noise control if they want to really get ahead of the game. If you want a slim line pocketable point and shoot camera and you’ll be using it for landscapes in bright light then give this one some thought.”
Rating:

Cameras.co.uk
“This is a handy sized snapshot camera. Attractions include High Definition movies and the ability to increase the amount of zoom available when shooting at lower resolutions. Picture quality is average.”
Rating:

The Washington Post
“I took some nice shots of my friend’s newborn baby, various sights around town, and a party at a local tiki bar. My most optimistic low-light and macro shots came out poorly (either under- or overexposed), but for general take-anywhere use, the P70 did a good job. It earned an image quality score of Fair from our Test Center judges, thanks to performing consistently in every test.”

Digital Camera Review
“ISO performance is comparable to the competition but the camera lacks stabilization. Of course, it also lacks the higher price tag that is the entry fee for stabilization. Continuous shooting rates at full resolution are disappointing but exposure calculation is good. All in all, the P70 offers fairly middle of the road performance in most categories wrapped around a lens with very good optical qualities.”

CNET
“If there’s a follow-up model to the P70 (and I hope there is), it’s going to need better processing speed. The design is excellent, the features very good, and the photos are perfectly suitable for who I see as the target user: someone wanting better photos than they can get from their cell phone without sacrificing the portability and convenience. It just needs to be faster.”
Rating:

StevesDigicams
“Image quality from the P70 was good in our outdoor images. Exposure is very nice and the colors are bright and vivid. This is a very stylish and full featured ultra-compact digicam. With a 12-megapixel imaging sensor, 4x wide optical zoom lens and full collection of auto shooting modes, this camera is easy enough and capable enough for anyone in the family or office to use.”

TrustedReviews
“The Pentax P70 is a camera with both good and bad points. It looks great, is well made and is extremely easy to use. It has a useful zoom range, the monitor is nice and it has some useful advanced features including an effective digital SR system. Image quality is good under most circumstances, low-light performance is also above average, and it is certainly good value for money. However it is let down by very slow performance, especially when using the digital SR feature. “
Rating:

RegHardware
“It’s sleek, stylish and has lots of features, as well as a novel vertical shooting mode. But the Optio P70 is let down by its performance, especially when used indoors.”
Rating:

Owner Feedback

Owner Feedback

[Owners tell what they think.]

Sample Photos

Sample Photos

[Image Quality Samples @ PhotographyBlog]
[Sample Photos @ Cameras.co.uk]
[Sample Photos at StevesDigicams]
[Sample Photos at TrustedReviews]
[Sample Photos at RegHardware]

Specs

Specifications

[Pentax Optio P70 Full Specifications]

Similar

Similar Cameras

Press

Press Release

January 2009: Pentax U.K. is pleased to announce the launch of the PENTAX Optio P70. With a stylish and ultra-thin body, this new high-performance model features a host of advanced functions that make impressive digital photography both effortless and enjoyable.

The Optio P70 packages outstanding core features, such as a 4X optical zoom, approximately 12 effective megapixels for incredible high-resolution images, and a large, easy-to-view 2.7-inch colour LCD monitor, all in a high-quality metallic shell. Even with this robust feature set, the Optio P70 has been designed to be extremely compact, with a body as thin as 16.5 millimetres in some sections.

This new digital compact camera also offers a variety of user-friendly features, including Vertical Snap to facilitate vertical-position shooting; a Smile Capture function to automatically release the shutter when it detects a subject’s smile; and an Auto Picture mode to automatically select one of eight shooting modes for a given subject. The Optio P70 is further enhanced by triple anti-shake protection using Pentax exclusive in-camera software, High-Sensitivity Shake Reduction, and Movie Shake Reduction modes.

Taken together, these features produce high-quality digital photography with simple, effortless operation under any circumstance every time. The Optio P70 also offers a choice of five fun colours to suit the user’s preference.

Main Features of the PENTAX Optio P70

1. High image quality
The Optio P70 is designed for the highest level of performance and image quality in its class, thanks to the combination of approximately 12 effective megapixels producing incredible high-resolution images, a high-performance imaging engine for true-to-life colour reproduction, and a renowned smc PENTAX lens. It even records movie clips at 1280 x 720 pixels, producing beautiful movies equivalent in quality to those of high-definition broadcast.

2. Advanced 4X Optical zoom lens with wide-angle coverage
The Optio P70 uses an impressive 4X optical zoom lens covering a focal length from 4.9mm to 19.6mm (equivalent to approx. 27.5mm to 110mm in 35mm format). This covers a wide range of subjects and scenes, from wide-angle images of scenery, architecture, or group shots taken in close quarters, to telephoto images depicting detailed subjects at great distance. For higher-magnification photography, it is equipped with an Intelligent Zoom function. When combined with the optical zoom lens, this function extends the zoom range to approximately 25X without compromising the optical performance of the lens.

3. Triple anti-shake protection to prevent different types of camera shake

- Pixel Track SR mode
When recording still images, the Optio E70’s new Pixel Track SR (Shake Reduction) mode effectively compensates for camera shake by processing affected images with exclusive software.
- High-Sensitivity SR mode**
When it detects low-lighting conditions in still-image shooting, the Optio E70 automatically raises its sensitivity as high as ISO 6400 to set a higher shutter speed. This effectively minimizes the adverse effects of camera shake and subject shake.
- Movie SR mode***
During movie shooting, the Optio E70 prevents blurry images by effectively minimizing annoying camera shake using exclusive software.

4. Vertical Snap mode for easy vertical-position shooting
The Optio P70’s unique Vertical Snap mode simplifies vertical-position shooting, as it allows the photographer to turn the power on and off and zoom the lens in and out with simple pushbutton operation on the back panel. In addition, all icons on the LCD monitor are automatically rotated for vertical-position viewing. This new mode provides the user with the same ease of operation as a mobile phone.

5. Compact, ultra-slim body
The compact design of the Optio P70 was achieved using new PENTAX advanced technology, including the newly developed “Sliding Lens System.”* Size and weight were further saved by downsizing all parts, and using space-efficient high-density mounting technology.

6. Stylish design with a high-grade finish
Both sides of the Optio P70 are gently rounded to provide the user with the most comfortable holding position possible, which also gives the camera an elegant shape that attracts the eye. Exterior blemishes have further been reduced by integrating the strap lug into the body. For a high-grade finish, meticulous attention is paid to every detail of the camera body, from the elegant, aluminium housing to chrome-coated parts that are gently contoured to radiate shine from every viewing angle. Additionally, to create a distinctive finishing touch, the silver model has a fine-textured sand finish, while colour models have a double-coating finish with a clear overcoat applied to primary colour paint.

7. Auto Picture mode for automatic selection from eight different shooting modes
The Optio P70 features the advanced Auto Picture mode, which automatically selects the most appropriate shooting mode for a given subject or scene by detecting the subject’s lighting and other conditions. This user-friendly mode not only makes the right mode choice for the photographer (from Landscape, Portrait, Night Scene, Night Scene Portrait, Flower, Sport, Standard and Candlelight modes), but also features an auto macro mode, which automatically switches the camera’s focus range to macro for close-up applications.

8. Super-fast Face Recognition AF & AE function to capture the subject’s face in focus in approximately 0.03 seconds
The Optio P70 features the Face Recognition AF & AE function, which is extremely handy for taking casual snapshots of friends and family. It optimises the focusing and exposure of the subject, up to 32 faces in a single image, in as little as 0.03 seconds. The Optio P70 offers other user-friendly functions as well: a Smile Capture function automatically releases the shutter the instant it detects the subject’s smile; and a Blinking Detection function warns the photographer when the subject’s eyes close at the time of shutter release.

9. Large, easy-to-view 2.7-inch colour LCD monitor
Despite its compact dimensions, the Optio P70 features a huge 2.7-inch high-brightness colour LCD monitor. Its bright screen not only makes image viewing easy while shooting and during playback, but also facilitates easier menu reading and mode setting.

10. Other features

- Digital Wide function to create an extra-wide-angle image (equivalent to an image taken with an approx. 21mm lens in 35mm format) from two images
- Digital Panorama mode to compose a single panoramic picture from as many as three images
- 26-mode shooting mode palette for easy selection of the most appropriate mode, including the Party mode, for any given subject or scene
- Favourites function to save reduced-size files of favourites images in the camera and recall them at will
- Image recovery function to retrieve accidentally erased images
- Frame Composite function (with 90 frames stored in the camera) to shoot or compose images with decorative photo frames
- Approximately 33.7MB built-in memory
- Red-eye reduction function to correct red eyes in recorded images during playback
- ACDSee for PENTAX 3.0 image viewing, editing and filing software included, support for Windows VistaTM
- Compatibility with PictBridge?DPOF functions?Exif Print, and PRINT Image Matching III

Pentax Optio E70

DCT — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 17:36:59 +0000

Last update 16 July’09 – Review and Sample Photos @ DigitalCameraReview

Pentax Optio E70 is a 10 megapixel digital compact camera that features large buttons easy to navigate interface, triple Anti-Shake Protection, Super-Fast Face Detection, 7 shooting modes, 3x optical zoom, 2.4 inch LCD, uses AA batteries, ISO range from 80 to 800, and camera dimensions are (W x H x D): 3.8 x 2.4 x 0.9.

Overall Rating: Note: There is a rating embedded within this post, please visit this post to rate it. | Lowest Price

Reviews

Review Index – (updated 16 July’09)

DigitalCameraReview
“Bottom line, the Pentax Optio E70 is just too slow. Image quality is sufficient for the needs of a beginner, but no photographer at any skill level wants to wait for their camera to finish processing an image. Again and again. Slowness aside, the Optio E70 offers very little in terms of performance, especially considering the $140 MSRP. Pentax’s competitors offer many options at or below that price point with greater focal range, better image quality and more manual control.”

MacWorld
“The Optio E70 is good for beginning photographers who don’t want to bother to learn the nuances of exposure, framing, and lighting. The E70 does most of the work for you with its preset modes and Auto Picture feature, but still offers experienced photographers features that they’ll appreciate and use.”
Rating:

SteveDigicams
“Pentax’s new Optio E70 comes packed full of useful features. However, the features and ease-of-use of this model do not make up for the lack in the performance and poor image quality we found during our testing. Therefore, we feel that with a MSRP of US$139.95, there are many other entry-level models in this price range with similar features that offer much better quality and performance.”

CNET
“Yes, you can spend a little more money and get more features and possibly better photo quality and performance than the Pentax Optio E70. But if all you need is a convenient, attractive, and simple ultracompact camera for taking snapshots, the E70 should suffice.”
Rating:

RegHardware
“A low-priced camera aimed at the digital beginner or the person watching their pennies. As with any entry-level camera, there are inevitable compromises, but the Optio E70L’s price tag makes some of these forgivable.”
Rating:

Owner Feedback

Owner Feedback

“All right as far as it goes. Got it for my wife and she likes it, but it’s a bit of a toy and I can’t take a camera seriously which uses throwaway batteries. It is easy to use but the colours are nothing spectacular, the response time is slow by today’s standards.”
Rating:

“The camera is really fun and easy to use. It is sleek and doesn’t take up much room to carry along anytime you want to have it available. For the cost, it is definitely worth it.”
Rating:

[Read more owner thoughts & opinions]

Sample Photos

Sample Photos

[Sample Photos @ StevesDigicams]
[Sample Photo @ CNET]
[Sample ISO Photos @ RegHardware]

Specs

Specifications

[Pentax Optio E70 Full Specifications]

Manual

Owners Manual

[Owners Manual]

Similar

Similar Cameras

Press

Press Release

January 2009: Pentax U.K. is pleased to announce the launch of the Pentax Optio E70 digital compact camera. Featuring large control buttons, it offers easy, accessible camera operation to every user, especially for those new to digital cameras.

Though it has been designed with accessibility for everyone in mind, the Optio E70 is equipped with advanced features to produce the high-quality digital images, such as Pentax triple anti-shake protection; Auto-focus and Auto-exposure modes capable of recognising up to 32 faces in only 0.03 seconds; approximately 10 effective megapixels for high resolution pictures; and a Green Mode which gives the camera responsibility for making all the necessary technical decisions, freeing up the user to capture the ideal shot.

The Optio E70 also benefits from using AA alkaline batteries, which can be replaced easily on the go. Furthermore, the camera has a flush face without any protrusion from the lens, increasing its portability and making it the ideal travel companion.

Major Features

1. Easy, accessible operation with large control buttons
The Optio E70’s shutter release button on the top panel and other control buttons on the back panel have been designed to be larger than those of conventional models to facilitate easier use. Coupled with the use of larger icons in the LCD monitor, the Optio E70 not only makes it quick and effortless to set desired modes and functions, but also provides at-a-glance confirmation of operational status.

2. Powered by world-standard AA-size batteries
Since the Optio E70 is powered by a pair of world-standard AA-size batteries, the user can easily obtain replacements almost anywhere, making it an appealing choice for travel photography. In addition, owing to its power-saving design, the Optio E70 records approximately 210 images* with one set of alkaline batteries.

3. Triple anti-shake protection to prevent different types of camera shake

4. Auto Picture mode for automatic selection of seven different shooting modes
The Optio E70 features the advanced Auto Picture mode, which automatically selects the most appropriate shooting mode for a given subject by detecting subject lighting and other conditions. This user-friendly mode not only makes the right mode choice for the photographer (from Landscape, Portrait, Night Scene, Night Scene Portrait, Flower, Sport and Standard modes), but it also features an auto macro mode, which automatically switches the camera’s focus range to macro in close-up applications.

5. Super-fast Face Recognition AF & AE function to capture the subject’s face in focus in approx. 0.03 seconds
The Optio E70 features the Face Recognition AF & AE function, which is extremely handy when taking casual snapshots of people. It optimizes the focusing and exposure status of the subject, up to 32 faces in a single image, in approximately 0.03 seconds. The Optio E70 even offers other user-friendly functions: a Smile Capture function that automatically releases the shutter the instant it detects the subject’s smile; and a Blinking Detection function that warns the photographer when the subject’s eyes close at the time of shutter release.

6. Green mode for worry-free shooting for all photographers
With the press of a button, the Optio E70’s Green mode selects the optimum combination of exposure settings, ISO sensitivity and other factors for a given subject or scene. It makes high-quality digital photography simple and effortless, even for first-time digital camera users. This mode also comes in handy when the photographer asks someone to take his/her picture, or when the user has lost track of the camera settings.

7. High image quality assured by approximately 10 effective megapixels
The Optio E70 features approximately 10.0 effective megapixels — the highest among today’s entry-class models. Coupled with a new imaging engine with much-improved processing capacity and a high-performance PENTAX lens, it assures high-quality digital images with edge-to-edge sharpness, even when enlarged to large-size prints.

8. Easy-to-use 3X optical zoom lens
Since the Optio E70 comes equipped with a 3X optical zoom lens offering an angle of view equivalent to 35mm wide angle to 105mm telephoto in 35mm format, it can take a wide range of subjects, including landscapes, keepsake photos and portraits. For higher-magnification photography, it even comes with an Intelligent Zoom function, which extends the zoom range to approximately 17.1 times without compromising the optical zoom lens image quality.

9. Other features

- Nine-point AF system, with Auto-Tracking AF function to maintain constant focus on a moving subject
- Favourites function to save reduced-size files of favourite images in the camera and recall them at will
- Flush-face design with no lens protrusion at power off, for enhanced portability
- Image recovery function to retrieve accidentally erased images
- Easy-to-view 2.4-inch colour LCD monitor with approximately 112,000 dots
- Recording of movie clips at sizes up to 640 x 480 pixels, with image quality rivalling camcorders
- Digital Panorama mode to compose a single panoramic picture from as many as three images
- World-time function to keep track of local time at 75 cities in 28 time zones around the world
- Frame Composite (with 90 frames stored in the camera) to shoot or compose images with decorative photo frames.
- ACDSee for PENTAX 3.0 image viewing, editing and filing software included, supporting Windows VistaTM
- Compatibility with PictBridge?DPOF functions?Exif Print, and PRINT Image Matching III

Pentax Optio M60

DCT — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 11:23:14 +0000

Last update 10 April’09 – Review by PCW

Pentax M60 announced on July 31, 2008 is a 10 megapixel waterproof coldproof point-and-shoot digital camera that features a 5x zoom, 2.5 inch LCD, HD movie capture, and digital shake reduction.

Overall Rating: Note: There is a rating embedded within this post, please visit this post to rate it.

Review Index – (updated 10 April’09)

PCW
“Considering how cheap the Optio M60 is, photo quality is reasonable. When viewed close up, however, a fair amount of noise and compression was noticeable, which wasn’t helped by the camera frequently opting for unnecessarily high ISO settings, even in broad daylight. For such a low price, the Optio M60 has some useful features and, although image quality isn’t perfect, it’s a good compact digicam.”
Rating:

PCAdvisor
“Although in essence a point-and-shoot camera, the Pentax Optio M60’s menus repay investigation as there are some intriguing options hidden beneath the cartoonish overlay. While we think this is a fairly pricey model given its limited manual options and scope, many consumers will be attracted to its trim outline and double-digit megapixel count.”
Rating:

ComputerActive
“The Optio M60’s main selling points are its compact size and equally small price tag. For just £99 you’re getting an easy-to-use digital camera that performs reasonably well. Those with an eye for quality, however, won’t appreciate the noisy images and thus will need to increase their budget.”
Rating:

CNET.co.uk
“The M60 suffers from the usual problems with noise, with grainy speckles lending images a gritty feel at ISO 200 and above. “
Rating:

TrustedReviews
“While it does have its limitations, for the money it offers excellent build quality, great handling, a wonderfully easy-to-use interface and some fun features. Unfortunately its low price shows in its slow performance and poor overall image quality.”
Rating:

Owner Feedback

[Owner thoughts & insights]

Sample Photos

[Sample Photos at TrustedReviews]

Specifications & Camera Profile

[Specifications]

Owners Manual

[Owners Manual]

Press Release

July 30th, 2008 – PENTAX UK is pleased to announce the launch of the new PENTAX Optio M60, a feature-filled digital compact camera that is lightweight and equipped with advanced, easy-to-operate functions. The Optio M60 can be used widely by anyone in a variety of situations, and is equipped with the latest scene mode recognition function allowing for easy and convenient capturing of high-quality images.

The M60 is the latest model in the PENTAX Optio M series of digital compact cameras, which have been highly acclaimed for their small, lightweight bodies and enhanced functions. In addition to a metal exterior that gives it a sense of sophistication, the M60 is loaded with an impressive optical 5X zoom, a large LCD monitor, easy-to-understand operability, and approximately 10.0 megapixels. Furthermore, the Optio M60 makes taking great pictures even easier by leaving it up to the camera to determine specific settings. This is made possible thanks to the strengthened face recognition function and advancements to the convenient “Auto Picture” function unique to PENTAX, where the camera automatically detects the conditions of the subject and selects the optimal scene mode. The camera is also available in three different colours, allowing users to select their favourite.

Major Features

1. Advanced Auto Picture mode that lets the camera automatically select the scene mode

Improvements have been made in the recognition performance of the Auto Picture mode, which is a convenient function unique to PENTAX, where the camera automatically selects the optimal scene mode when pointed at the subject. Through the addition of Candlelight to the conventional scene modes of Landscape, Portrait, Night Scene, Night Scene Portrait, Standard, Flower, and Sport, a total of 8 scenes can now be recognised with the Optio M60, which is the greatest for this series. It is now possible to leave everything up to the camera and take beautiful photos of a wide variety of scenes easily and without hassle.

2. High-speed Face Recognition function takes only 0.03 seconds

The Optio M60 is equipped with the Face Recognition AF & AE function, which is useful when taking photos of people, as it automatically sets the focus and exposure. In addition to increasing to 32 the number of faces that can be detected at once, the detection time has been reduced to an impressive 0.03 seconds. The Optio M60 is also supplied with easy to use applications such as Smile Capture, which automatically distinguishes smiles and takes photos, and Blinking Detection, which is a function that warns the photographer if the subject blinked at the moment the shot was taken.

3. New design that pursues a sophisticated texture

The Optio M60 features a new design that is unique down to the texture of each part. Aluminum alloy, which has a certain sophisticated feel and look to it, is used for the body’s exterior. Different colours are used for the decorative ring around the lens that match the body colour. By using parts with a beautiful luster for the grip and the upper surface of the body, the Optio M60 becomes as much an accessory as a state of the art camera technology.

4. Optical 5X zoom lens

Within a compact body that fits into the palm of your hand, the Optio M60 is equipped with an optical 5X zoom lens, with an angle of view equivalent o approximately 36mm to 180mm in 35mm format. It is now possible to zoom in further when taking photos of landscapes, commemorative photos and portraits. The Optio M60 also features an Intelligent Zoom function that extends the zoom range without compromising the optical zoom’s image quality, enabling highmagnification zoom photography, equivalent to a maximum of approximately 28.5X.

5. High sensitivity Digital SR mode that reduces camera shake and subject blurring

The Optio M60 features Digital SR (shake reduction) mode, which can reduce camera shake and subject blurring during still-image photography. This mode automatically adjusts the image sensor sensitivity up to a maximum of ISO 6400, in accordance with the subject’s brightness to permit the fastest shutter speed possible to capture a sharp, clear image with minimal blurring.

6. Approximately 10.0 effective megapixels for high-definition images

For the Optio M60, the effective pixel count was increased to a higher definition of approximately 10.0 megapixels. In addition, clear and high-quality images are realised through a high-performance PENTAX lens. Clear prints, with exceptional detail are possible even when photos are stretched out to large sizes.