As one of the last of the major manufacturers to release a digital SLR camera, Pentax entered the market late in the game. By October 2003 (when the Pentax *ist D began shipping) numerous other models were available, including some "new and improved" third generation cameras.
Best known for their line of highly rated compact cameras with built-in zooms, Pentax has also continued to develop their line of SLR cameras and accessories. Their two most recent lenses--introduced in conjunction with the MZ-S, a...
Following the resounding success of the ZX-5N--a high tech autofocus SLR with traditional controls--Pentax has introduced several models with an equally handsome silver and black finish. Most recent is the mid-priced ZX-7, designed for maximum...
Designated as the "Best 35mm SLR Camera in Europe, 2003-2004" by the Technical Image Press Association (TIPA), the *ist is the most sophisticated mid-range 35mm SLR camera that Pentax has ever produced. This ultra-compact and lightweight model was designed concurrently with the new Pentax...
The smallest and lightest digital SLR on the market at the time of this writing, the *ist DL is also among the most affordable in the 6-megapixel category. As the entry-level model in the Pentax line, it was designed for simplicity of operation, yet it's surprisingly versatile, with a full slate of semiautomatic and manual features as well as overrides for full control.
During the photokina 2006 show, many new digicams were introduced with higher resolution: 10-megapixel sensors are now typical in the upscale models while 7-megapixel sensors are becoming the norm in many other categories. In terms of features, larger LCD monitors, at least 2.5" in size, have become standard; touch-screen LCDs (discussed later) have been introduced and...
The digital SLR category continues to grow. Several manufacturers introduced new models during the photokina show; Canon, Panasonic, and Sony had unveiled their new entries sometime before the European trade show, so they are not included in this report. In any event, it's clear that the 10-megapixel or higher resolution category is becoming the norm in all types of...
With the incredible popularity of D-SLR cameras, all manufacturers are working aggressively to expand their line of suitable lenses and we found many new models at the photokina show. As expected, most of the new products are "digital only"--designed exclusively for digital cameras with APS or Four Thirds size sensor--some are multi-platform lenses. The...
In digital photography, exposure control is sometimes considered irrelevant. “You can easily fix any problems in your computer,” some friends will suggest.