2-36-9, Maeno-cho, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 174-8639, JAPAN (http://www.pentax.co.jp/) PENTAX Europe GmbH Julius-Vosseler-Strasse, 104, 22527 Hamburg, (European Headquarters) GERMANY (HQ - http://www.pentaxeurope.com) (Germany - http://www.pentax.de) PENTAX U.K. Limited PENTAX House, Heron Drive, Langley, Slough, Berks SL3 8PN, U.K. (http://www.pentax.co.uk) PENTAX France S.A.S. 12/14, rue Jean Poulmarch, 95106 Argenteuil Cedex, FRANCE PENTAX Benelux B.V. (for Netherlands) Spinveld 25, 4815 HR Breda, NETHERLANDS (http://www.pentax.nl) (for Belgium & Luxembourg) Weiveldlaan 3-5, 1930 Zaventem, BELGIUM (http://www.pentax.be) PENTAX (Schweiz) AG Widenholzstrasse 1 Postfach Dietlikon, SWITZERLAND (http://www.pentax.ch) PENTAX Scandinavia AB P.O. Box 650, 75127 Uppsala, SWEDEN (http://www.pentax.se) PENTAX Imaging Company A Division of PENTAX of America, Inc. (Headquarters) 600 12th Street, Suite 300 Golden, Colorado 80401, U.S.A. (Distribution & Service Center) 16163 West 45th Drive, Unit H Golden, Colorado 80403, U.S.A. (http://www.pentaximaging.com) PENTAX Canada Inc. 1770 Argentia Road Mississauga, Ontario L5N 3S7, CANADA (http://www.pentax.ca)

PENTAX Corporation

SLR Digital Camera

Operating Manual

http://www.pentax.co.jp/english
Specifications and external dimensions are subject to change without notice. 57526 Copyright PENTAX Corporation 2005 01-200506 Printed in Philippines
For optimum camera performance, please read the Operating Manual before using the camera.
Thank you for purchasing the PENTAX L Digital Camera. Please read this manual before using the camera in order to get the most out of all the features and functions. Keep this manual safe, as it can be a valuable tool in helping you to understand all the cameras capabilities.
Lenses you can use In general, lenses that can be used with this camera are DA, D FA and FA J lenses and lenses that have an Aperture s (Auto) position. To use any other lens or accessory, see p.37 and p.180. Regarding copyrights Images taken using the L that are for anything other than personal enjoyment cannot be used without permission according to the rights as specified in the Copyright Act. Please take care, as there are even cases where limitations are placed on taking pictures even for personal enjoyment during demonstrations, performances or of items on display. Images taken with the purpose of obtaining copyrights also cannot be used outside the scope of use of the copyright as laid out in the Copyright Act, and care should be taken here also. Regarding trademarks PENTAX and smc PENTAX are trademarks of PENTAX Corporation. The SD logo is a trademark. All other brands or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. To users of this camera There is a possibility that recorded data may be erased or that the camera may not function correctly when used in surroundings such as installations generating strong electromagnetic radiation or magnetic fields. The liquid crystal panel used in the LCD display is manufactured using extremely high precision technology. Although the level of functioning pixels is 99.99% or better, you should be aware that 0.01% or fewer of the pixels may not illuminate or may illuminate when they should not. However, this has no effect on the recorded image. This product supports PRINT Image Matching III. PRINT Image Matching enabled digital still cameras, printers and software help photographers to produce images more faithful to their intentions. Some functions are not available on printers that are not PRINT Image Matching III compliant. Copyright 2001 Seiko Epson Corporation. All Rights Reserved. PRINT Image Matching is a trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation. The PRINT Image Matching logo is a trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation. Regarding PictBridge PictBridge allows the user to connect the printer and digital camera directly, using the unified standard for the direct printout of images. You can print images directly from the camera through a few simple operations. There is a possibility that the illustrations and the display screen of the LCD monitor in this manual are different from the actual product.
FOR SAFE USE OF YOUR CAMERA
We have paid close attention to the safety of this product. When using this product, we request your special attention regarding items marked with the following symbols. Warning Caution This symbol indicates that violating this item could cause serious personal injury. This symbol indicates that violating this item could cause minor or medium personal injury, or material loss.

4 Menu Reference

Explains the functions of L by buttons and menus.

5 Function Reference

Introduces functions to further enhance your L experience.

6 Appendix

Explains troubleshooting, introduces optional accessories and provides various resources.
The symbols used in this operating manual are explained below.
Shows reference page number explaining a related operation. Shows useful information. Shows precautions to take when operating the camera.
Check the package contents and names of working parts before use.
L Camera Characteristics..12 Checking the Contents of the Package.13 Names of Working Parts..14

L Camera Characteristics

Features a 23.515.7 mm CCD with 6.1 million effective pixels for high precision and a wide dynamic range. Uses CR-V3, AA lithium batteries, rechargeable AA Ni-MH batteries or AA alkaline batteries. Features a large 2.5-inch LCD monitor with 210,000 pixels and a brightness adjusting function for high-precision viewing performance. Concepts of Universal Design have been implemented to various parts of the camera. The large, high-resolution LCD monitor and easy-to-use menus make the camera easier to operate.
The captured area (view angle) will differ between the L and 35 mm SLR cameras even if the same lens is used because the format size for 35 mm film and CCD are different. Sizes for 35 mm film and CCD 35 mm film : 3624 mm L CCD : 23.515.7 mm Angles of view being equal, the focal length of a lens used with a 35 mm camera must be approximately 1.5 times longer than that of L. To obtain a focal length framing the same area, divide the focal length of the 35 mm lens by 1.5. Example) To capture the same image as a 150 mm lens attached to a 35 mm camera 1501.5=100 Use a 100 mm lens with the L. Inversely, multiply the focal length of the lens used with L by 1.5 to determine the focal length for 35 mm cameras. Example) If 300 mm lens is used with L 3001.5=450 Focal length is equivalent to 450 mm lens on a 35 mm camera.
Checking the Contents of the Package
The following accessories are packaged with your camera. Check that all accessories are included.
Hot shoe cover FK (Installed on camera)
Eyecup FN (Installed on camera)

Use the AC adapter (optional) when using the camera for a prolonged period. (p.28) Check the battery orientation if the camera does not operate properly after replacing the batteries.

Batteries

You can use four kinds of batteries with your camera. Battery performance differs by type. Please choose the type that best suits your purpose.
CR-V3 AA Ni-MH rechargeable batteries AA lithium batteries The CR-V3 is a long-life battery and is convenient when traveling. These are rechargeable and are economical. Recommended in cold climates.
Provided with the camera. These are easily obtainable when your usual batteries run out but they may not support AA alkaline batteries all the camera functions under certain conditions. We do not recommend their use except in emergencies and checking the camera's functionality.
Oxyride batteries and rechargeable CR-V3 batteries may cause malfunctions due to their voltage characteristics so their use is not recommended.

Battery Level Indicator

You can confirm remaining battery level by checking the { displayed on the LCD panel.
{ } ? ? lit lit lit blink : Battery is full. : Battery is running low. : Battery is almost empty. : The camera turns off after displaying a message.
Approximate Image Storage Capacity and Playback Time (new batteries)

(Temperature)

Normal recording 560 500
Flash photography 50% use 100% use 440 380

Playback time

CR-V3 AA lithium batteries AA rechargeable batteries (NiMH 2500mAh) AA Alkaline Batteries
(23C) ( 0C) (23C) ( 0C) (23C) ( 0C) (23C)
700 minutes 470 minutes 470 minutes 400 minutes 350 minutes 300 minutes
minutes Not Not Not 70 minutes ( 0C) applicable applicable applicable
The still picture storage capacity is based on measuring conditions in accordance with CIPA standards and the playback time is based on PENTAX measuring conditions. Some deviation from the above figures may occur in actual use depending on shooting mode and shooting conditions.
Battery performance temporarily decreases as the temperature decreases. When using the camera in cold climates, have extra batteries on hand and keep them warm in your pocket. Battery performance will return to normal when returned to room temperature. AA alkaline batteries may not support all the camera functions. We do not recommend their use except in emergencies and checking the camera's functionality. Have extra batteries ready when traveling overseas, taking pictures in cold climates, or when you will be taking a lot of pictures.

Turn the camera off before attaching or removing the lens to prevent unexpected lens movement.
Check that the camera is off. Remove the body mount cover ( 1 ) and lens mount cover ( 2 ).
Be sure to put the lens down with the lens mount side facing upward to protect from damage to the area around the lens mount after removal.
Align the red dots on the camera and the lens, and secure by turning the lens clockwise until it clicks.
After attaching, check that the lens is secured. Also check that the red dots of the lens are on top and attachment portion does not move sideways.
Remove the front lens cap by pushing the indicated portions inward.
To detach the lens, hold down the lens unlock button ( 3 ) and turn the lens counterclockwise.
The body mount cover ( 1 ) is a cover to prevent scratches and block dust when shipped. Body Mount Cap K is sold separately and has a lock function. We assume no responsibility nor liability for accidents, damages and malfunctions resulting from the use of lenses made by other manufacturers. The camera body and lens mount incorporate lens information contacts and an AF coupler. Dirt, dust, or corrosion may damage the electrical system. Clean the contacts with a soft dry cloth.
Adjusting the Viewfinder Diopter
Adjust the viewfinder to suit your eyesight. If it is difficult to see the viewfinder image clearly, slide the diopter adjustment lever sideways. You can slide the diopter from 2.5m-1 to +1.5m-1.
Look through the viewfinder and point the camera at a welllit scene. Slide the diopter adjustment lever left or right.
Adjust the lever until the AF frame in the viewfinder is focused.

AF Frame

Eyecup is attached to the viewfinder portion when camera leaves the factory. Diopter adjustment is available with the eyecup attached. However, adjustment is easier with the eyecup removed as shown above. To remove the eyecup, pull one side of the Eyecup FN out and toward you as shown on the right.
This chapter explains basic operations for shooting by setting mode dial to Picture mode (Auto Picture or Normal mode - Flash OFF mode) to ensure successful capturing. For information about advanced functions and settings for taking pictures, refer to chapter 4 and onward.
Basic Shooting Operation..42 Selecting the Appropriate Capturing Mode for Scenes..47 Using the Zoom Lens..48 Using the Built-in Flash..49 Other Shooting Modes...53 Playing Back Still Pictures..63 Connecting the Camera to AV Equipment.70 Processing Images with Filters..71 Deleting Images..73 Setting the Printing Service (DPOF).79 Printing Using PictBridge.83

Basic Shooting Operation

Holding the Camera
How you hold the camera is important when taking pictures. Hold the camera firmly with both hands. Press the shutter release button gently when taking a picture. 3

Refer to p.13 of the PENTAX PHOTO Browser 2.1/PENTAX PHOTO Laboratory 2.1 Operating Manual for details on connecting the camera to a PC.
[A Custom] Menu Setting Items
Set custom functions to fully use the functions of a SLR camera with the Custom Function Menu. The default setting does not use Custom Function. [A Custom] menu settings are activated when [Setting], the first item, is O (on).
Item Setting Noise Reduction Function Set to use the Custom Function Menu. Set to use Noise Reduction in slow speed shooting. Set the adjustment steps for exposure. Set sensitivity range to automatically correct when Sensitivity is set to [AUTO]. Set the maximum sensitivity level. ISO Sensitivity Warning Display appears when exceeded. Set to adjust AE and Focusing Area in multisegment metering based on AF point. Set the exposure metering time. Set to fix exposure value when focus is locked. Set to switch number of recordable images in the LCD panel and viewfinder to number of continuous shooting recordable images when shutter release button is pressed halfway. Set the action for the 4 button when pressed during shooting. Page p.142 p.115 p.116 p.131 p.132 p.124 p.120 p.121
Expsr Setting Steps ISO Corction in AUTO ISO Snstvty Wrn Dspl Link AF Point and AE Meter Operating Time AE-L with AF locked Recordable Image No. OK btn when shooting AE-L bttn on M expsr
Select the exposure adjustment method when p.140 the L button is pressed in a (Manual) mode. Set to use Autofocus when shooting with remote control. Shutter releases after AF activates if shutter is released from remote control when [On]. Shutter cannot be released until in focus. AF does not activate at shutter release from remote control when [Off].

AF in remote control

Item FI with S lens used Function Set to enable focus indicator when screw mount lens is in use. Lens is recognized even when lens is not attached to the camera when enabled. Set to disable shutter release when lens aperture ring is set at other than s. Set to release shutter while the built-in flash is charging. Page
Using aperture ring Release when Chrging

p.180 p.147 p.170

Instant Review Dsply Set to display histogram during Instant Review. Set the initial magnification of the zoom playback. Mag to Strt Zm Plybk Choose from [1.2 times], [2 times], [4 times], [8 times] and [12 times]. The default setting is [1.2 times]. Man. WB Measurement Color Space Reset Custom Fnction Set to meter entire screen or Spot area when setting white balance to manual. Set the color space to use. Reset all the settings in the Custom Function menu to the defaults.

Effect of Aperture

Adjust the amount of light hitting the CCD by changing the aperture. Opening the aperture (reduce the aperture value) Objects closer and farther than the focused subject will be more out of focus. For instance, if you take a picture of flower against a landscape with the aperture open, the landscape in front and behind the flower will be blurred, emphasizing only the flower. Closing the aperture (increase the aperture value) The range in focus expands forward and backward. For instance, if you take a picture of flower against a landscape with the aperture narrowed, the landscape in front and behind the flower will be in focus.

Depth of Field

When you focus on a portion of the subject, there is a range in which object closer and farther will also be in focus. This focused range is called the depth of field. The depth of field for the L differs depending on the lens but compared to a 35 mm camera, the value is roughly one aperture setting lower (the focused range becomes narrower). The wider the wide-angle lens, and the farther away the subject, the wider the depth of field is. (Some zoom lenses do not have a scale for depth of field because of their structure.)
Depth of Field Area of focus Aperture Lens focal length Distance to the subject Shallow Narrow Open

(Smaller value)

Deep Wide Close

(Larger value)

Longer (Telephoto) Near

Shorter (Wider) Far

How to Check Depth of Field
When you focus on a portion of the subject, there is a range in which object closer and farther will also be in focus. This focused range is called the depth of field. If you use Depth of Field confirmation, you can check the depth of field in the viewfinder before taking a picture.

Focus on the subject.

Turn the main switch to | while looking through the viewfinder.
You can check the depth of field in the viewfinder while holding the main switch.
No shooting information is displayed in the viewfinder, and the shutter cannot be released while the main switch is in the preview position (|). You can check the depth of field in all exposure modes.

Selecting the Metering Method
Choose the part of the screen to use for measuring brightness and determining exposure. [Multi-segment metering], [Center-weighted metering] or [Spot metering] mode can be selected. The default setting is [Multi-segment].
Multi-segment Centerweighted Spot metering
Segment the screen in 16 parts, meter each portion and determine the appropriate exposure. Measure the entire screen with an emphasis on the center and determine the exposure. Measure only the center of the screen and determine exposure.
Set in [AE Metering] in the [A Rec. Mode] menu. (p.98) 5
Using the Multi-Segment Metering
The scene in the viewfinder is metered in 16 different zones as shown in the illustration when using the multi-segment metering. This mode automatically determines what level of brightness is in which portion.
The center-weighted metering mode is automatically set even if you select the multi-segment metering mode when using a lens other than a DA, D FA, FA J, FA, F or A lens. (Can only be used if permission is set in [Using aperture ring] in the [A Custom] menu (p.101).)
131 Linking AF Point and AE During Multi-Segmented Metering
In [Link AF Point and AE] (p.100) of the [A Custom] menu, you can link the exposure and focus point in the focusing area during multisegment metering. The default setting is [1 (Off)].
Off On Exposure is set separately from focus point. Exposure is set in accordance with focus point.
Using the Center-Weighted Metering
Metering is weighted at the center of the screen. Use this metering when you want to compensate the exposure by experience, instead of leaving it to the camera. The illustration shows that sensitivity increases as the pattern height increases (center). This mode does not automatically compensate for backlit scenes.

Using the Spot Metering

With spot metering, brightness is measured only within a limited area at the center of the screen as shown in the illustration. You can use this in combination with the AE lock (p.142) when the subject is extremely small and proper exposure is difficult to obtain.

Changing the Exposure and Shooting (Auto Bracket)
You can take continuous pictures with different exposure when the shutter release button is pressed. The first frame is exposed with no compensation, the second frame is under-exposed (negative compensation) and the third is over-exposed (positive compensation).

Normal exposure

Under-exposure

Over-exposure

Press the { button in capture mode.
Use the four-way controller (5) to select [V (Auto Bracket)].

Drive Mode Auto Bracket

Shooting is ready and ] is displayed on the LCD panel.
Focus indicator ] appears in the viewfinder when focused.
Three continuous pictures will be taken, the first with no compensation, the second with negative compensation, and the third with positive compensation.
When the focus mode is set to l (Single mode), the focus is locked in the first frame position and used for subsequent continuous frames. The auto bracketing exposure setting will remain effective for twice as much time as the metering timer (default setting is 20 seconds) (p.132) when you release your finger from the shutter release button during auto bracketing, and you can take the next picture at the next compensation value. In this case, auto focusing works for each frame. After about twice as much time as the metering timer (default setting is 20 seconds), the camera returns to settings for taking the first picture. You can combine Auto Bracket with the built-in flash or external flash (P-TTL auto only) to change only the flash output continuously. However, when using an external flash, holding the shutter release button down to take three continuous frames may cause the second and third frame to be taken before the flash is fully recharged. Always take one frame at a time after confirming that charging is complete. Auto Bracket is not available when the exposure mode is set to p (Bulb) mode.

Setting Auto Bracket

Change the shooting order and steps of Auto Bracket.
Bracketng amount (Step interval) 1/2EV 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 0.3, 0.7, 1.0, 1.3, 1.7, 2.+, 0 +, + 0

1/3EV Shooting images

* Set interval of steps in [Expsr Setting Steps] in the [A Custom] menu. (p.142)
Set in [Auto Bracket] in the [A Rec. Mode] menu. (p.98)
Auto Bracket Bracketng amount Shooting images 0.5 0
Taking Only Over-exposed or Under-exposed Pictures
You can use the auto bracketing mode for only under-exposure or over-exposure shots by combining the operation with exposure compensation (p.141). The auto bracketing is performed in both cases on the basis of the specified exposure compensation value.

FA J18-35 mm F4-5.6 AL DA18-55 mm F3.5-5.6 AL FA20-35 mm F4AL FA24-90 mm F3.5-4.5AL (IF) FA28-70 mm F4AL FA*28-70 mm F2.8AL FA J28-80 mm F3.5-5.6 FA28-80 mm F3.5-5.6 FA28-90 mm F3.5-5.6 FA28-105 mm F4-5.6 FA28-105 mm F4-5.6 (IF) FA28-105 mm F3.2-4.5AL (IF) FA28-200 mm F3.8-5.6AL (IF) FA35-80 mm F4-5.6 FA70-200 mm F4-5.6 FA J75-300 mm F4.5-5.8AL FA*80-200 mm F2.8ED (IF)
# Yes Yes Yes Yes # Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Vignetting may occur if focal length is between 28 and 35 mm and the shooting distance is less than 1m.
FA80-320 mm F4.5-5.6 FA80-200 mm F4.7-5.6 FA100-300 mm F4.7-5.8 FA*250-600 mm F5.6ED (IF) DA14 mm F2.8ED (IF) FA20 mm F2.8 FA*24 mm F2AL (IF) FA28 mm F2.8AL FA31 mm F1.8AL Limited FA35 mm F2AL DA40 mm F2.8 Limited FA43 mm F1.9 Limited FA50 mm F1.4 Yes Yes Yes No No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes # # Built-in flash always discharges fully. Built-in flash always discharges fully.
FA50 mm F1.7 FA77 mm F1.8 Limited FA*85 mm F1.4 (IF) FA135 mm F2.8 (IF) FA*200 mm F2.8ED (IF) FA*300 FA*400 mm F2.8ED (IF) mm F5.6ED (IF) FA*300 mm F4.5ED (IF) FA*600 mm F4ED (IF) D FA Macro 50 mm F2.8 D FA Macro 100 mm F2.8 FA Macro 50 mm F2.8 FA Macro 100 mm F2.8 FA Macro 100 mm F3.5 FA* Macro 200 mm F4ED (IF) FA Soft 28 mm F2.8 FA Soft 85 mm F2.8
Using an External Flash (Optional)
Using the optional external flash AF360FGZ enables a variety of flash modes, such as P-TTL auto flash mode, high-speed flash sync mode, and wireless mode. See the chart below for details. (Yes: Available #: Restricted No: Not available)
Flash Camera Function Red-eye reduction flash Automatic flash discharge After the flash is charged, the camera automatically switches to the flash sync speed. Aperture is automatically set in e (Program) mode and b (Shutter Priority) mode. Auto check in the viewfinder P-TTL auto flash (appropriate sensitivity: 200 to 3200) Slow-speed sync Flash Exposure Compensation AF illuminator Rear curtain sync flash*2 Contrast-control-sync Slave flash flash*2 mode Built-in Flash Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes*1 Yes Yes Yes #*3 #*4 No No No No AF360FGZ Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes*1 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes No Yes Yes

Item Image Tone Recorded Pixels Default Setting F (Bright) P (30082000) C (Best) (0) (0) (0) 1 sec 0.5/0-+ L (Multi-segment) N (Wide) l (Single mode) 0.0 Last Memory Setting Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Reset Setting Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Page p.108 p.109 p.110 p.111 p.111 p.111 p.170 p.145 p.130 p.121 p.122 p.146
Quality Level Saturation Sharpness Contrast Instant Review Auto Bracket AE Metering Focusing Area AF Mode Flash Exp. Comp.

[Q Playback] Menu

Item Plybk dsply mthd Bright Portion Digital Filter Slideshow Default Setting Image only Off B&W 3 sec Last Memory Setting Yes Yes Yes* Yes Reset Setting Yes Yes Yes Yes Page p.160 p.160 p.71 p.68
* Only the slimness and softness settings for the slim filter and soft filter are saved.

[H Set-up] Menu

Item Format Beep Date Adjust World Time setting Hometown (City) World Time Hometown (DST) Destination (City) Destination (DST) Default Setting O (On) According to default setting P (Off) According to default setting According to default setting Same as Hometown Same as Hometown According to default setting O (On) 0 According to default setting PC 1 min SerialNo Last Memory Setting Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Reset Setting Yes No Yes No No No No No Yes Yes No Yes Yes Yes p.167 p.167 p.168 p.168 p.84 p.169 p.169 p.181 p.171 p.164 Page p.162 p.163 p.163
Language/ Guide display Brightness Level Video Out Transfer Mode Auto Power Off File # Sensor Cleaning Reset

[A Custom] Menu

Item Settings Noise Reduction Expsr Setting Steps ISO Corction in AUTO ISO Snstvty Wrn Dspl Link AF Point and AE Meter Operating Time AE-L with AF locked Recordable Image No. OK btn when shooting AE-L bttn on M expsr Default Setting P (Off) On 1/2EV Steps ISO 200-400 Off Off 10 sec Off Remaining image storage capacity Off Program Line Off Not available Prohibited Off Normal Playback 1.2 times Entire screen sRGB Last Memory Setting Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Reset Setting Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Page p.100 p.140 p.142 p.115 p.116 p.131 p.132 p.124 p.100 p.120, p.121 p.140 p.100 p.101 p.180 p.147 p.170 p.101 p.113 p.117 p.172
AF in remote control FI with S lens used Using aperture ring Release when Chrging Instant Review Dsply Mag to Strt Zm Plybk Man. WB Measurement Color Space Reset Custom Fnction* * Reset settings in [A Custom] menu.

Exposure mode e Program, b Shutter priority, c Aperture priority, a Manual, p Bulb Picture mode I Auto Picture, U Normal, = Portrait, s Landscape, q Macro, \ Moving Object,. Night Scene Portrait, a Flash OFF Electronically controlled vertical-run focal-plane shutter, Electromagnetic release, Speed range (1) Auto 1/4000-30 sec. (step less), (2) Manual 1/4000-30 sec. [1/2 EV step or 1/3 EV step] (3) Bulb, Shutter lock by setting Main switch in OFF position. Pentax KAF bayonet mount (K-mount with AF coupler, lens information contacts) Pentax KAF2 (not power zoom compatible), KAF mount lenses, KA mount lenses TTL phase-matching autofocus system (SAFOX VIII), AF operational brightness range: EV 1 to 18 (at ISO 100 with f/1.4 lens), Focus lock available, Focus Mode: l (Single)/k (Continuous)/\, Switch Focusing Area (Wide/Spot) available Penta-mirror viewfinder, Natural-Bright-Matte II focusing screen, Field of view: 95%, Magnification 0.85 (with 50 mm f/1.4 lens at ), Diopter: 2.5m-1 to +1.5m-1. (per meter)

Shutter

Lens Mount Lens used

Autofocus System

Viewfinder
Focus information: ] is lit when in-focus and blinking when unable to focus, b is lit=Built-in flash ready, Blinking=Flash should be used or incompatible lens is being used, Shutter Viewfinder Indication speed, Aperture value, e-dial enabled indicator, @=AE lock, Capacity remaining and m=Exposure compensation, K=Manual white balance, k=Continuous mode, Picture mode icon, \=Manual focus, o=ISO warning b is lit=Built-in flash ready, Blinking=Flash should be used or incompatible lens is being used, E=Auto discharge, E>=Redeye reduct Auto discharge, 9=Single frame shooting, j=Continuous shooting, g=Self-timer, h=Remote control shooting, ?=Battery exhaustion warning, ]=Auto bracketing exposure (exposure setting steps can be set to 1/2EV or 1/3EV), M=Center-weighted metering, N=Spot metering, M=Spot AF, Shutter speed, Aperture value, White Balance, Capacity remaining and m=Exposure compensation, PC (mass storage)/Pb (PictBridge) appears when the USB cable is connected. Electronically controlled and usable in all exposure modes Electronically controlled with delay time of 12 sec./2 sec. (with mirror lock up). Start by pressing shutter release button. Operation confirmation: Possible to set beep. Can be cancelled after operation Quick-return mirror, mirror lock up function (available at 2 sec. self-timer) Three frames continuous shots with exposure bracketing (Selectable between 1/2EV and 1/3EV for Exposure setting steps)

LCD Panel display

Depth of Field confirmation Self-timer

Mirror Auto Bracket

Exposure Meter/ Metering Range EV Compensation AE lock TTL multi (16)-segment metering, Metering range from EV1 to EV21.5 at ISO200, with 50 mm f/1.4 lens, Center-weighted and Spot metering mode can be set 2.0EV (Selectable between 1/2EV and 1/3EV for Exposure setting steps) Button type (timer type default: 20 sec. or continuous as long as the shutter button is halfway pressed) P-TTL built-in flash with serial control , GN 15.6 (ISO 200/m), Angles of coverage: 18 mm lens angle of view, Flash synchronization speed range at 1/180 sec. and slower, Daylightsync flash, Slow-speed-sync flash, ISO range = P-TTL: 200 to 3200 Hot shoe with X-contact, which couples with Pentax dedicated auto flashes, ISO range = P-TTL: 200-3200, Automatic flash, Red-eye reduction flash function, High-speed-sync, wireless-sync with PENTAX dedicated flash. 18 functions can be set World Time settings for 72 cities (28 time zones) Two CR-V3, four AA lithium, AA Ni-MH rechargeable, or AA alkaline batteries Battery exhaustion symbol ? is lit. The shutter is locked and no indication appears in the viewfinder when ? starts blinking USB/Video terminal (USB2.0 (high speed compatible)), DC input terminal, Cable switch terminal Compatible printer Print mode PictBridge-compatible printer Print One, Print All, DPOF AUTOPRINT

Built-in flash

External Flash sync Custom Function Time Function Power Battery Exhaustion In/Out Port
Video Output Format NTSC/PAL PictBridge Dimensions and Weight
125 mm (W) 92.5 mm (H) 67 mm (D) 470 g (body only without batteries) Hot shoe cover FK, Eyecup FN, ME viewfinder cap, Body mount cover, USB Cable I-USB17, Video cable I-VC28, Software (CDROM) S-SW34, Strap O-ST10, Four AA alkaline batteries , Operating manual (this book) and PENTAX PHOTO Browser 2.1/PENTAX PHOTO Laboratory 2.1 operating manual English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Swedish, Dutch, Russian, Korean, Chinese (Traditional / Simplified) and Japanese

Accessories

Languages
Specifications for Remote Control F (Optional)
Remote Control Power Size Weight Infrared Remote Control unit, captured about three seconds after remote control shutter button is pressed or immediate capture on pressing the button, operating distance = within approx. 5 m in front of the camera. One lithium battery (CR1620) 22 mm (W) 53 mm (H) 6.5 mm (D) 7g (including battery)

B&W (Digital Filter). 71 Batteries.. 25 Beep.. 163 Bright. 108 Bright Portion.. 160 Brightness of the LCD Monitor... 168 Built-in flash. 49, 146 p (Bulb) Mode. 140 Bulb Mode p. 140
Cable Switch. 140 Capture Information. 17, 18 Card access lamp. 15 CCD Cleaning.. 181 Center-weighted. 131 Cloudy (White Balance). 112 Color space. 117 Color Temperature.. 113 Continuous Autofocus.. 124 Continuous mode k. 122 Continuous Shooting. 53 Contrast. 111 Contrast-Control-Sync Flash... 159 CR-V3. 26 Custom Function. 100 [A Custom] Menu. 100, 176
AC Adapter..28 Adding the Date.79 AdobeRGB..117 AE lock..142 AE Metering..130 L button.93 AF Mode.122 AF360FGZ..153 k (Continuous mode)..122 l (Single mode).122 Alkaline batteries..26 Aperture.128 Aperture Priority Mode c.136 Auto Bracket..143 Auto Picture I.43, 47 Auto Power Off.169
Date Adjust..35 Date change..163 Daylight (White Balance).112 Daylight-Sync Shooting..52 Default Setting.33, 174 Delete..73 Delete All Images.74 i (Delete) button.94 Deleting a Single Image.73 Depth of Field..128 Digital Filter..71 Diopter Adjust..39 Direct Printing..83 Display Language.167 Display Style.160 DPOF AUTOPRINT..90 DPOF Settings..79 Drive Mode..102
Flash Compensation. 146 Flash Off.. 47 Flash OFF a.. 47 K (Flash pop-up) button. 93 Fluorescent Light (White Balance). 112 { button. 93, 95 Fn Menu. 102 Focus Indicator.. 125 Focus Lock.. 123 Focus mode lever. 93 Focus point. 131 Focusing.. 118 Focusing Area.. 121 Format.. 162 Four-way controller.. 93, 95

Guide display.. 16, 167

e-dial..93 Error Message..186 EV Compensation.141 mc (EV Compensation/Av) button..93 Exposure..127 Exposure metering timer.144 Exposure Mode..132 Exposure Warning..135, 137, 139 External flash..153
High-Speed Flash Sync Mode... 155 Histogram.. 19, 170
Image Tone. 108 M button.. 93, 95 Instant Review. 170 ISO Sensitivity.. 115 ISO Sensitivity Warning Display... 116
File #.169 Filter..71 Fireworks..140 Fix Exposure.124 Fix Focus..123 Flash..49, 146 Flash (White Balance)..112
Landscape s.. 47 Language. 33 Last Memory. 174 LCD Monitor.. 16 LCD panel.. 22 Lens. 37, 178 Lens unlock button. 38, 92

Lithium batteries.26

Macro q..47 Main switch..92, 94 \ (Manual focus).125 Manual focus \..125 Manual White Balance.113 Matte Field..button.93, 94 Menu Operation.96 Meter Operating Time..132 Mirror Lock Up.62, 182 Mode dial.93, 104 Moving Object \.47 Multiple Flashes.158 Multi-segment..130

PENTAX *

Digital SLR
By Guenter Schott been impossible. Today the use of digital cameras is widespread and depending upon your specific need have a greater or lesser degree of connection to the way pictures are combined with words or diagrams in our daily work habits. Depending upon your budget or photographic expertise, there are more than a dozen really smart and not-too-heavy products on the market. The evolution of pure digital cameras has come a long way in a short period of time. One of the frontrunners is the new PENTAX with its very large 2.5 inch LCD monitor that most photographers will appreciate. I have been a fan for PENTAX cameras for many years and been very successfully using the now antique 35mm model with LX Body and a variety of interchangeable lenses. Since the trade name for this camera is not quite explanatory as most trade names are, I was curious and asked the PENTAX people for an explanation of this name and got the following
An ideal camera for would-be digital photographers who want more than a point-and-shoot device. It includes a new Auto Picture Mode, larger Monitor, easy-to-use controls and a user-friendly, multi-data guide screen, which uses text and sample photos to describe the camera's functions.
he Internet has changed the way we communicate with one another. Sharing information, operating businesses and keeping abreast of the latest information from all over the world, is evident routinely in our daily work habits and has become the way we conduct ourselves. And nowhere is that evolution more apparent than in the field of digital photography. Today, digital photography and the Internet have become a key medium in how people process and handle photos. Pictures are often used as stimulating communications vehicles. You can snap photos immediately and do whatever you want with them practically and instantly: download them into a photo library on your computer, print them out on your printer, e-mail them to family and/or friends, or e-mail them to on-line photo processing sites for hardcopy prints. All these options culminate in an accomplishment that only a few decades ago would have

Review of PENTAX *

Digital SLR Page 1
answer: The * in all three PENTAX digital SLRs refers to the suffix "ist" meaning specialization in a specific task. Quite clever, isnt it? The compatibility with PENTAX interchangeable lenses is especially noteworthy and I wanted to see if I could use the ones I am now using with my antique 35mm LX. Unfortunately my lenses dont have the required lens information contacts. But, interestingly enough, there seems to be a way around this and the following company statement seems to address it quite satisfactorily: Acclaimed PENTAX K lens mount used in conventional 35mm-format SLR cameras (PENTAX K-, KA-, KAF- and KAF2-mount 35mm-format lenses) can be used without an adapter or modification. However, PENTAX screw-mount 35mm-format lenses and PENTAX 645- and 67-system lenses can be used with an adapter. Some functions may not be available with certain lenses. This will make a lot of current PENTAX fans quite happy, especially when you have an arsenal of excellent lenses, like me. There is a lot to be said about this new digital marvel and I want to begin with the operating manual that has 208 pages of easy-to-understand explanations plus illustrations for the use of this camera. Anyone considering to buy a digital camera will appreciate this operating manual. One fact I didnt know when you compare digital photography with conventional 35mm lenses is quite eye-opening. It is the focal length, the distance between the focal point of a lens (that is, the point at which the lens will focus parallel rays of light) and the lens itself.
films have wider FOVs and can capture more of the scene. The FOV associated with a focal length is usually based on the 35mm film photography, given the popularity of this format over other formats. In 35mm photography, lenses with a focal length of 50mm are called "normal" because they work without reduction or magnification and create images the way we see the scene with our naked eyes (same picture angle of 46). Wide angle lenses (short focal length) capture more because they have a wider picture angle, while telephoto lenses (long focal length) have a narrower picture angle. A change in focal length allows you to come closer to the subject or to move away from it and has therefore an indirect effect on perspective. Some digital cameras suffer from barrel distortion at the wide angle end and from pincushion distortion at the tele end of their zoom ranges. The captured area (view angle) will differ between the * and 35mm SLR cameras even if the same lens is used because the format size for 35mm film and CCD are different:

Sizes for 35mm film and CCD 35 mm film : 36 x 24m m CCD : 23.5 x 15.7m m * Angles of view being equal, the focal length of a lens used with a 35 mm camera must be approximately 1.5 times longer than that of * To obtain a focal length framing the same area, divide the focal length of the 35mm lens by 1.5. Example: To capture the same image as a 150mm lens attached to a 35mm camera 1501.5 = 100 Use a 100mm lens with the * Inversely, multiply the focal length of the lens used with * by 1.5 to determine the focal
The focal length of a lens is also defined as the distance in mm from the optical center of the lens to the focal point, which is located on the sensor or film if the image is "in focus". The camera lens projects part of the scene onto the film or sensor. The field of view (FOV) is determined by the angle of view from the lens out to the scene and can be measured horizontally or vertically. Larger sensors or
length for 35 mm cameras. Example: If 300mm lens is used with * 300 x 1.5 = 450 Focal length is equivalent to 450mm lens on a 35mm camera. Digital SLR Page 2
In photography, the aperture defines the size of the opening in the lens, which in advanced cameras can be adjusted to control the amount of light reaching the film or digital sensor (CCD or CMOS). In combination with variation of the shutter speed, and variation in film speed (ISO), this will regulate the photograph's degree of exposure to light. Typically, a fast shutter speed will require a larger aperture to ensure a sufficient exposure to light, just as a slow shutter speed will typically require a smaller aperture to prevent excessive exposure to light. The word "aperture" means an opening, from the Latin apere, to open. A charge-coupled device (CCD) is a sensor for recording images, consisting of an integrated circuit containing an array of linked, or coupled, capacitors. It is used in digital photography and astronomy (particularly in photometry, optical and UV spectroscopy and high speed techniques such as lucky imaging). You might now think that I really got carried away with all those technical explanations but for the average photographer to learn what those fundamental expressions incorporate should help with future adventures in digital photography. OK, back to the *
features a 2.5 inch LCD monitor and the lightest PENTAX digital SLR body at only 16.6 ounces. The high-precision 2.5-inch color LCD monitor, with approximately 210,000 pixels, displays recorded images clearly and beautifully, even when the original image is magnified 12 times using the digital zoom capability. The camera also facilitates image confirmation after shooting and menu selection during shooting and editing operations. The menu screen also provides an optimum color scheme between menu descriptions and background to assure easy reading under all types of lighting conditions. Equipped with an innovative Auto Picture mode, the * automatically selects the most appropriate Picture mode from Standard, Portrait, Landscape, Macro or Action to ensure optimum combination of aperture, shutter speed, white balance, saturation, contrast, and intensity of edges. In addition, the built-in auto flash automatically pops up in dimly lit or backlit situations. As a result, first-time digital SLR users can immediately produce highquality digital images with minimal effort. From the multi-function four-way controller to the responsive electronic Av/Tv dials and the large, easy-to-use mode dial, all switches and dials are positioned on the camera body for flawless fingertip control. The ergonomically designed grip assures firm, comfortable hold of the camera. Thanks to its large, high-performance CCD image sensor (23.5mm by 15.7mm), the camera offers 6.1 effective megapixels. Coupled with PENTAX's original image processing technology using a high-performance engine, it produces high-definition images rich in gradation and saturation. It also offers a choice of finishing touches between bright and natural to satisfy user preferences. What is a CCD (Charge Coupled Device)? An electronic memory that is charged by light. It is commonly used in still cameras, camcorders and scanners to capture light for converDigital SLR Page 3

As you can see on this illustration of the backside of the camera, there are multiple function buttons that will allow you to do most anything possible. Carrying on the PENTAX tradition of compact digital bodies with simple operation and outstanding performance, the
sion to electricity. CCDs are analog devices that hold a variable charge and are thus capable of recording the varying shades of light. To convert the content of CCDs into the digital realm, analog to digital (ADC) converters quantify the variable charge into a discrete number of colors. The * features a user-friendly, multi-data guide screen, which offers detailed description of shooting modes, displays drive, flash and white balance settings using text and sample photos, and presents a comprehensive list of all camera settings on the large 2.5-inch monitor and incorporates a sophisticated 16segment metering system to assure highprecision light measurement, even under complicated lighting conditions. It also offers center-weighted metering and spot metering for specialized applications. Featuring the advanced SAFOX VIII AF system incorporating three cross-type widearea AF sensors, the camera automatically selects the most appropriate sensor for a given subject. It also lets the user fix the sensor point on the middle sensor for specific applications. Using the menu screen, the user can select the preferred focus mode between Single AF, which locks the focus when the shutter release button is half-depressed, and Continuous AF,* which adjusts the focus to the subject's movement. * This focus mode is available in the Auto Picture and Picture modes, only when the Action mode is selected. The * incorporates a high-speed shutter unit, with a top speed of 1/4000 second and a top synchronization speed of 1/180 second, to assure greater visual creativity. The bulb setting is also available to accommodate extended exposures at night and also records up to five images (at best image quality in JPEG format) consecutively at a speed of approximately 2.8 frames per second, allowing the user to capture a series of photos of the subject's motion. This model uses the widely available SD memory card as its storage media, not only assuring high-speed recording and readout of imReview of PENTAX *
age data, but also helping to reduce the camera body size. Other interesting features Eighteen user-programmable custom functions to personalize camera operations to user preferences Noise-reduction system to minimize annoying digital noise during extended exposures Dual power source, with a choice of two CR-V3 lithium batteries or four AA-size batteries Effortless PC data upload via USB 2.0 (HIGH-SPEED) connection Functional playback functions, including 12X zoom display and nine-image thumbnail display A choice of image format between JPEG (good, better or best) or RAW Four digital filters (black-and-white, sepia, slim, and soft-focus in three patterns) for easy post-shooting image processing PENTAX PHOTO Laboratory 2.1 RAWdata processing software and PENTAX PHOTO Browser 2.1 browser software included Pictbridge compatibility Conclusion With a price tag of just under $800, this precision digital camera might be a bit too pricy for the amateur photographer but will get a good reception in the advanced photo taking public. PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of cameras, sport optics, lenses, mobility products, and internet cameras. For more than 80 years, PENTAX technology has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses. PENTAX Imaging Company is a division of PENTAX of America, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of PENTAX Corporation of Japan. PENTAX is a trademark of PENTAX Corporation.