DSLR News

The second D-SLR from Panasonic, this 10-megapixel model is quite different than the original 7-megapixel Lumix DMC-L1. The latter--built like a tank, and still available--is an unusually traditional model in many respects. It resembles a large/heavy 35mm rangefinder camera and features "retro"-style controls, including a mechanical aperture ring on the...

The Pentax K-1 ($1,796.95) is the first full-frame (36x24mm) SLR from the company since it introduced the legendary LX film camera back in 1980. The Pentax K-1 has a 36.4-megapixel sensor that lacks an anti-aliasing filter to increase sharpness and image quality, a trendy feature these days. Pentax spins it differently by including an AA Filter Simulator that eliminates moiré without requiring a physical anti-aliasing filter.

Ricoh Imaging introduced the 24-megapixel Pentax K-3 II DSLR earlier this year. The Pentax K-3 II is the successor to the K-3 from 2013 and while it shares some features with that model, it adds a few new tricks, including an improved shake reduction system, a new high-speed AF algorithm, and built-in GPS.

The K-70 is Pentax’ newest SLR camera with a 24MP APS-C sized image sensor. It is a heavy camera (body: 1.5 lbs; 2.4 lbs including the kit lens), yet is quite compact. It has a splash-proof body and can be used in inclement weather conditions. The Pentax SMC DA F3.5-5.6 ED AL IF DC WR kit lens (used for the test) is also weatherproof.

The Pentax K-S1 is a small but versatile DSLR system with a 20MP APS-C sensor. Its body design is based on a standard SLR concept, with a large grip on the right hand side and a pentaprism optical viewfinder. There are, however, some aspects of the camera that are quite unusual, mainly the use of LEDs to signal settings and functions. These LEDs sit on the front and back of the camera and can, for example, show how many people are included in the face detection function; indicate the choice of photo or video mode with a red or green circle of LEDs on the back; or, quite reasonably, indicate self-timer countdown via bright LEDs on the camera front.

Pentax’s parent company, Ricoh Imaging, has been teasing that it would be announcing a new full frame digital SLR for several months now and today that phantom camera was finally unveiled. Ricoh just introduced the long awaited Pentax K-1, which is equipped with a 36.4-megapixel full frame CMOS sensor about the size of a piece of 35mm film.

The first thing most serious photographers do after buying a new camera is to change many of the default settings to match their particular style and the type of images they shoot most. If you need some help with this important task, all you have to do is watch the quick video below.