New DSLR - Pentax K5

[HinFrance]

They don't mention it because ALL lenses attached to a Pentax DSLR meter OK.

You might need to dial in 1/2 or 1 stop of adjustment, but that's it. If the lens is has an 'A' setting you can adjust the aperture using the camera and everything apart from focus works as usual. If the lens doesn't have an 'A' setting you have to put the camera into manual mode, set the aperture using the ring on the lens, and then press the green button. After the shutter speed has been set, press the shutter release.

I've just done a few shots (later to be on Flickr) using my all manual K mount 50mm f1.7.

[Mr Bump]

Thanks very much for that H. I can feel a purchase coming on

Look forward to seeing your Flickr additions. You have a lot of great images on there. I particularly like Street-IMGP1303cc

BTW I mentioned in a previous post my slight concerns about Pentax SDM and their twelve month guarantee. I have since learned that Pentax cameras, lenses and accessories purchased from a Pentax Pro Centre come with a two-year guarantee which, again, instills more confidence.

Still reading and learning.

[HinFrance]

Here's one from the all manual Chinon. Alas, because of slight miscalculation on my part the apple on the left is out of focus - DOF error, slight angle to subject and the lens was wide open at f1.7



Thanks for the thoughts on my Flickr gallery.

Here are the instructions for using manual lenses on Pentax DSLRs

[Mr Bump]

That's a very useful link for Pentax newbies, thanks H.

Yup, image #2 with Pentax 50mm f1.4 is better to my eye.

I've more or less made my mind up on the K5 now. Will be speaking to Clifton Cameras tomorrow or Monday. Due to the current Pentax cashback offer the K5 net price is exactly the same with or without 18-55 kit lens so it is a no-brainer to order the latter. Although not my lens of choice it will certainly suffice during the period of getting comfortable with the K5, by which time I hope to have learned a lot more about better lens options. Recommendations gratefully received.

[Sue Allen]

and the 18-55 is a WR lens so could be handy to have by you for using in the rain! I used to love getting out my old Olympus E-1 and weatherproof lens just as everyone else was putting their cameras away

[Mr Bump]

Originally Posted by Sue Allen

and the 18-55 is a WR lens so could be handy to have by you for using in the rain! I used to love getting out my old Olympus E-1 and weatherproof lens just as everyone else was putting their cameras away

Good point Sue. I really like the particular qualities of photos taken in the rain.

With the right backing from Hoya I would imagine Pentax may gradually introduce a whole new range of WR lenses with the new AF system employed in the 18-135. I'll need to start feeding the piggy-bank.

[Mr Bump]

Well, after a weekend of deliberation a decision has been taken. A K5 has been odered today with 18-55WR kit lens (as the lens was basically free). At the same time I found I could not resist a used Pentax 70mm SMC DA f2.4 Ltd in as-new condition for £150 below the lowest current new price. Also ordered is a Metz 50 AF-1 flashgun with Stofen so I will have much to familiarise myself with over the coming weeks.

Some of my Nikon kit was sold yesterday and the rest will go on ebay early next year. Then I will be on the lookout for a used Pentax 21mm SMC DA f 3.2 AL Ltd and possibly a FA 35mm F2 AL or 40mm f2.8 Ltd.

By the way, the Pentax lens database here is very helpful to Pentax newbies.

Thanks to HinFrance, Sue Allen and all other contributors to this thread whose observations and feedback helped me make my choice

[Sue Allen]

Oh dear - you'll know who to blame if you don 't like it! I'm finding the more I use it the more I like it - things like the iso sensitivity priority mode [although accidentally moving the rear wheel did mean a load of rather underexposed shots at f32 1/2000 - memo to self.... 'check settings'] - and the shutter release which is so quiet and smooth - and the natty way of fine tuning the white balance......
In spite of the slow af of the 55-300mm the camera itself does seem much improved over the K20D - utilising only single shot af I managed a series of sharp pictures of a Red Kite yesterday - unfortunately too far away to be of much use but no problems tracking it. And also some in focus shots of a fast moving Snipe - again very small but it showed the possibilities when I get that better lens.
Look forward to seeing some of your results.

[GeoffWessex]

Is this the longest thread concerning one single camera in this forum? The discussion's been around the houses a bit but always comes back to things that are good about the K5. Which must mean something!

Sensitivity Priority, on the other hand, was also available on the K10d. Not that I've ever used that mode.

[Mr Bump]

Originally Posted by GeoffWessex

Is this the longest thread concerning one single camera in this forum? The discussion's been around the houses a bit but always comes back to things that are good about the K5.

Yes, quite remarkable really and although the thread has occasionally gone off at tangents it has always commanded incredible interest and has marked up nearly five thousand views in seven weeks. I wonder, Geoff, whether you anticipated such response when you originally posted?!