Photography Bay

Digital Camera News, Reviews and Tips

Pentax 645D Medium Format Camera Leak

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UPDATE 12/3/09: Image scans from the Pentax 645D manual have been removed by request and as a courtesy to those involved. However, it wasn’t like this was Pentax’s best kept secret in the first place, given the Pentax 645D patent application filed in 2008.

The Pentax 645D has been in the rumor mill for a long time; however, the buzz over this camera has grown over the course of this year.

It looks like part of the camera manual has leaked online, along with rumors of an early-2010 appearance, perhaps around PMA 2010.

Rumored specs include a 39.5-megapixel sensor, and you can see from the manual scan that SD cards and the DNG raw format are in the mix.

[xitek forums via Photo Rumors]

 

Pentax K-7 System Rebate

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Pentax is offering a $100 prepaid VISA card when customers purchase a qualifying lens with the 14.6-megapixel Pentax K-7 DSLR.

You can buy up to 5 lenses with a new Pentax K-7 and receive a total of (5) $100 prepaid VISA cards.  Obviously, you can buy more, but only 5 of them will qualify for the rebate.  This promotion is set to expire January 15, 2010.  The rebate form can be downloaded here.

The qualifying lenses are listed below. [Read more…]

Pentax Clearance

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RitzCamera.com (not the bankrupt brick & mortar stores) is clearing out some Pentax stock.  I checked on a few of the prices and it seems like a pretty good deal for those of you Pentax shooters out there.

There are DSLRs (the K20D seems to be discontinued at most retailers), point and shoot cameras, lenses, flashes, batteries, grips, etc. in the clearance.  Here’s the link.

Pentax K-x Hands-On

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Pentax K-x

Editor’s note: Chris got some hands-on time with the Pentax K-x yesterday at the Pentax press event.  He passed along a number of photos to share; however, he’s busy at the Pepcom event today.  I wanted to get these hands-on images in front of you and highlight some of the key specs on the Pentax K-x.

The Pentax K-x headlines with a 12.4-megapixel CMOS sensor and video capture capability at 720p and 24fps.  It packs a lot into a very small package at a very affordable price point – $650 for the single lens kit.

One of the more subtle, yet serious shooter features, is an 11-point AF system with 9 of those points being cross-type sensors.  To put that specification into perspective, the much pricier Canon Rebel T1i offers a 9-point AF system with only cross-type sensor found at the center AF point.  Better yet, the Canon 5D Mark II also has 9 AF points with a single cross-type sensor on the center point.  So, Pentax is taking entry-level users seriously by spec’ing the K-x well above its price-point.

Pentax K-x

The Pentax K-x also matches the sensitivity of the Canon Rebel T1i with a range of ISO 100-12800 equivalent.  We don’t have any samples to share yet; however, this is a bold spec that’s raising eyebrows.

What the Canon Rebel T1i and Nikon D5000 can’t do is provide image stabilization for every lens attached.  The K-x has a sensor-based stabilization system, so no matter which lens is on the camera, the K-x will be working to reduce camera shake-induced blur.

As you can see from the photos here, the K-x is a rather compact DSLR, particularly when fitted with the wide angle smc-DA 15mm f/4 ED AL Limited lens shown above (top).  Compact DSLRs have been quite the trend lately – Sony downsized its entry-level shooters without much more of a change and Nikon just dropped the compact and simple D3000 on the scene.  The Pentax K-x fits rather nicely into the gamut of entry-level DSLRs with its compact size and feature set.

Hopefully, we’ll get our some time to take a closer look at the K-x soon and see if the performance and image quality are on par with the spec list.  For now, it looks like Pentax has a real winner on its hands.  If the K-x tastes as good as it looks (although the jury is still out on the red version), the K-x will definitely deserve some consideration on everyone’s entry-level DSLR shopping list.

More hands-on pics of the K-x below. [Read more…]

Pentax K-x Reviews and Resources

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Pentax K-x

The Pentax K-x DSLR is geared toward entry level users. It has a 12.4MP CMOS sensor and a large number of higher end features. Additionally, the camera will come in black, white, red and navy.

The K-x continues on the for the Pentax K2000. The K-x has a one-handed shooting design is targeted to users stepping up from a point and shoot digital camera to their first digital SLR. Along with the 12.4MP CMOS sensor, it has a 2.7 inch LCD screen, Live View, face detection, 720p HD video capabilities shooting at 24p, HDR bracketing, 4.7 fps, 11 point autofocus, and uses AA batteries.

Pentax K-x Availability

Check availability for the Pentax K-x at the following online retailers:

Amazon.com

B&H Photo

Adorama

Pentax K-x

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 K-x will ship in October with three kit 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 Reviews

Photography Bay (hands-on)

For now, it looks like Pentax has a real winner on its hands. If the K-x tastes as good as it looks (although the jury is still out on the red version), the K-x will definitely deserve some consideration on everyone’s entry-level DSLR shopping list.

Imaging Resource

Small and light, the Pentax K-x seems like a well-built, no-nonsense digital SLR, with perhaps only one flaw: the lack of visible AF points.

Digital Camera Review

The Pentax K-x is a worthy competitor for the major manufacturers out there, and is probably in line for the third best with the other smaller camera companies.

Photocrati

Image quality was very good, if not remarkable. And the AF system was largely on track, especially when it came to action photography.

PhotographyBLOG

The new Pentax K-x occupies the sweet spot between the entry-level K-m and prosumer K-7 cameras, combining the ease-of-use of the former with many of the advanced features of the latter.

Digital Camera Review (hands-on)

12.4MP, 720p video recording, live view, great build quality and access to some great fast primes, all for under $650? Not bad.

Pentax K-x

Pentax K-x 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-x Press Release

Pentax K-x

PENTAX ANNOUNCES AFFORDABLE, NEW PENTAX K-x WITH HIGH-END FEATURES INCLUDING HD VIDEO AND LIVE VIEW

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 $599.95 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.
  • Powerful automatic modes, including PENTAX Auto Picture and scene modes, ensure the perfect shot in any situation, while helping new photographers learn DSLR photography.
  • 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 on www.pentaxwebstore.com.  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.

Complete information is available here:  http://www.pentaximaging.com/about-us.aspx?p=press

Product images are available here:  www.pentaximaging.com/press/pressfiles.html

An informational video is available here:   www.youtube.com/Pentaxian1

PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of a variety of digital cameras including weather resistant digital SLRs and compact, waterproof cameras, as well as lenses, flash units, binoculars, scopes, and eyepieces.  For 90 years, PENTAX has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses.  With headquarters in Golden, Colorado, PENTAX Imaging Company is a division of PENTAX of America, Inc.

Pentax Optio P80 and E80

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Pentax Optio P80

The Pentax Optio P80 and E80 are point and shoot cameras featuring 12.1-megapixel and 10-megapixel sensors, respectively.  The P80 offers a 4x optical zoom and captures 720p HD video at 30 fps, while the E80 offers a 3x optical zoom and captures 720p HD video at only 15 fps.  Both cameras feature a 2.7-inch LCD with 230k dot resolution.

The Pentax Optio P80 and E80 should be available in September 2009 at an initial retail price of $199.95 and $129.95, respectively.

Check availability for these two cameras:

Pentax Optio P80 at Amazon.com

Pentax Optio E80 at Amazon.com

Pentax Optio E80

More details in the press release below. [Read more…]

Pentax Optio WS80 Reviews and Resources

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Pentax Optio WS80

The Pentax Optio WS80 is a waterproof (up to 5 feet) point and shoot camera that features a 10-megapixel sensor and 5x optical zoom.  It also offers a 2.7″ LCD and is capable of capturing 720p HD video at 30 fps.

The Pentax Optio WS80 should be available in September 2009 at an initial retail price of $249.95.

Check availability on Amazon.com.

Pentax Optio WS80

Pentax Optio WS80 Reviews

PhotographyBLOG

The prime reason that you should consider the WS80 is its budget price – £230 / $250 is not too much to ask for an easy-to-use camera that should survive most family holidays, with even cheaper online bargains sweetening the deal.

Pentax Optio WS80 Press Release

Pentax Optio WS80

GOLDEN, CO. (August 5, 2009)…A bold, new waterproof digital camera jumped into the swimming pool today. PENTAX Imaging Company announced the Optio WS80, the newest contender in the durable, affordable digital camera category.

Available in two bold, his-and-her’s designs, the water and dustproof Optio WS80 is a perfect choice for travel, outdoor activities and families. Featuring a 10 megapixel CCD and a 5X internal optical zoom housed in a slim, palm-sized body that is less than an inch thick, the Optio WS80 has a large 2.7 inch LCD with 230,000 dot resolution for easy composition. With waterproof construction that can withstand depths up to five feet (1.5 meters), the Optio WS80 captures underwater photos and video including high resolution, widescreen, HD video up to 720p at a full-speed 30 frames per second. Other features include:

• Fast Face Detection technology sees up to 32 faces in as little as 0.03 of a second for easy portrait photography.
• Smile Capture automatically releases the shutter when a subject smiles and Blink Detection alerts the photographer if the subject’s eyes are closed during the exposure.
• PENTAX Shake Reduction (SR) technology features Pixel Track SR, Digital SR, and Movie SR, stabilizing your images and video for beautiful, blur-free results.
• PENTAX Auto Picture mode automatically selects from eight shooting modes for beautiful images in any setting.
• Sensitivity up to ISO 6400 boosts shutter speeds to freeze subject movement for blur-free images even in low lighting.

Available in two eye-catching color options, black with orange accents or white with purple accents, the PENTAX Optio WS80 will ship in September 2009 for $249.95 USD.