Gizmodo: Pentax

Review: Pentax W60 Waterproof Camera Catching Whale Sharks

Brian Lam — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 06:45:15 EDT

I had the perfect backdrop to review this Pentax W60 waterproof camera while vacationing in Hawaii last week. It's 10mp, has a 5x zoom, and does HD level video, but the only reason to buy such a point and shoot is that it's rated to 13 feet of underwater depth for two hours, and is the smallest waterproof camera of its kind. It would prove to be a fortuitous addition to my travel gear, catching some great shots of some of my first surf lessons and some rare aquatic life while other tourists fumbled with crappy disposable film cams.

The video above was shot on a generic snorkeling tourist water-bus. We took the boat out from Maui to Molokini, helmed by some hooligans who did donuts and told canned (but funny) jokes for the rich, bleached tourists, Lisa and I counted ourselves among. I suppose we were no different, as much as we'd like to think so, but I did have that camera ready to go when the captain peeled back the throttle, started shouting with excitement and pointing at something moving slowly towards us under the surface. None of us could see past the glare, but the captain's polarized sunglasses, he said, revealed a whale shark, the biggest he'd ever seen in his life on Hawaii, as big as our 30-foot boat. He urged us to jump into the water, promising that this was a rare thing to find on what was supposed to be a pedestrian look at some small, colorful reef fish. I can't say I was very comfortable with the idea of jumping over the side, despite the Museum of Natural History's tutelage so many years ago that the whale shark only ate microscopic schmeg in the water. But the captain asked twice and over I went, after putting the camera in underwater movie mode. Others soon joined with the disposable wind up cameras that the crew joked, "used to cost $15, but after the shark showed up, cost $100." The whale shark made several passes, perhaps curious about the strange hairy fish as pale as the undersides of a flounder, splashing around ineffectively and groping at its dorsal fin. After awhile, I normalized my breathing — the water almost always makes me panic a bit — and could grab enough breath to chase the fish below the surface and grab on for a few seconds. I felt safe, but we were not all lucky enough to escape unharmed. One man cut his finger on the fish's denticles, rubbing it the wrong way. I shot a photo of the man. Professional marine biologists might disagree, but I suppose that's technically the first whale shark attack to draw blood in recent history.

The W60 is the third or fourth generation waterproof camera from Pentax, and earlier ones were only safe to use to a depth of 5 feet for 30 minutes. So the W line has graduated, in the W60, from the wading pool to more earnest underwater endeavors only short of full on diving. The W60 is also rated to shrug off dust and dirt and temperatures down to 14 degrees F, but this is not nearly as rugged as the larger Olympus waterproof cameras.

The shots, above water, were solid, aided by the multiple modes for portraits (with multiple face detection), flowers (macro), etc. Shots were sometimes adequate color and saturation and sharpness, sometimes would be foiled by flat contrast or washed out colors or a droplet of water it could not focus past. There were also amazing frames that made photos look like those from little sticker picture booths in Tokyo. I didn't like how long it took to switch between these modes, but one could make due with almost anything by leaving it in auto mode. (Note: I shot everything at 3MP, which suited my needs for memory preservation and online presentation of shots.) But underwater, away from a pool and off the shallows of Hawaii, modes tended to not color shift out enough of the blue as you can see in the shots above. This is sad, and you can only recapture so much color in post processing.

Other gripes: The USB cable is non-standard on the mini side, and the screen was sometimes hard to see in the bright sun or underwater. Also, my unit was supposed to record sound underwater but only ticked and buzzed and you could sometimes hear the zoom motors functioning.

I tested the W10, a W60 predecessor, a few years ago, and lost it while almost being washed down the coast over some shallow reef. Pentax's press people send along two terrific accessories, a bright orange foam float with the logo surf camera on it that looped through the wrist strap, and a rubber case. Having a camera float in the ocean is a great, great comfort. And although the rubber case needed to be taken off every time to rinse the camera after a salt water swim, the added protection made my experience in the surf even more carefree. Both are highly recommended. And the camera isn't bad, either.

Pentax Optio W60 Extreme Weather Cam Good for Dips, Not Dives

Benny Goldman — Thu, 22 May 2008 18:00:00 EDT

The Optio W60 is the most waterproof Pentax cam yet. A step up from the W30, it's a 10MP point-and-shoot that will survive at depths up to 13 feet for two hours, good enough for the pool, beach and most non-competitive snorkeling. It also handles freezing temps (14°F) and is certified dustproof against dirt, sand and dust. The Optio features 5x optical zoom, 28mm wide-angle shooting, and HD video recording. It comes in silver and blue and will be out in July for $330. Maybe this summer I'll test it against the Olympus 1030SW and others in a Bathtub Battlemodo. Additional picture after the jump. [Pentax]

Optio V20 from Pentax has 5x Zoom, Smile Recognition and Blink Detection

AddyDugdale — Mon, 19 May 2008 03:00:00 EDT

Six months after Pentax released the Optio V10, the japanese company has upped the stakes with the V20. The slimline point-and-shoot has upped the zoom from 3x to 5x, as well as increasing Digital SR mode to ISO 3200 and ISO 6400. With a nice, big 3-inch LCD screen on the back, smile recognition and blink detection, (Earl Hickey, this one's for you) the V20 will be available in Japan next month for the equivalent of $288 Bonus shot of the V20 after the jump.

[Impress]

Giz Explains: Digital Camera Image Sensors

matt buchanan — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 14:00:00 EDT

Spring is the primetime for new cameras, hence the cheap cam battlemodo, an entry-level DSLR battlemodo, not to mention loads of rumors and breakthroughs. It's a lot to keep up with, and you may not even know what's going on with the camera in your pocket. If that's the case, don't worry, here's a quick primer an digital camera image sensors—just what you need to know.

There are two major types of image sensors for digital cameras and camcorders: CCD (charged-couple device) and CMOS (complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor, sometimes also known as active pixel sensor). We're not going to get into the really geeky differences, because you don't really need to know or care. What you should know is that higher-end digital SLRs (the big cameras with a removable lens) use CMOS because it's easier to make bigger CMOS sensors; and mobile phones do because CMOS uses less power. That said, most point-and-shoot cameras and most camcorders use the more common CCD sensor.

The big thing about image sensors? Size matters. And we're not talking megapixels. Half the reason shots taken with a DSLR look so much better than the ones taken with your backpocket point and shoot is that the DSLR's image sensor is massive in comparison. The difference can be even more stark when you compare shots from a 2-megapixel cameraphone with a standard 2-megapixel camera. (The other half is the lens—pros will tell you it's all about the glass—but we're talking sensors here.)

You see, in order to cram more and more pixels onto tiny sensors—think $150 cameras claiming to rock 10 megapixels of awesome—you've gotta make the pixels smaller and smaller, which a) makes photos look grainy and b) makes the sensor suck at picking up light. The result: Low-light shots look like they're off a security camera from 1997, especially when you crank up the ISO (light sensitivity) setting. When a point-and-shoot promises you shots at 1600 ISO, it's generally a sacrifice you don't want to make: unuseable pics full of rainbow-colored noise.

The best DSLRs use 35mm sensors, that is, a sensor that is the same size as a frame of standard film. This is known as "full frame." The D3, Nikon's biggest, baddest DSLR camera, costs $5,000 but only shoots at 12.2 megapixels. By contrast, its Canon competitor rocks 23. Still, the D3 beats all comers in low-light shooting, mainly because its 36 x 23.9mm sensor doesn't try to shove a bunch of megapixels onto it. By better, we mean that the pictures have less noise (that rainbow-colored grain). It's also why rumors of a new 24.4-megapixel Nikon spark some concern—there's no way it'll shoot as well in the dark. Sony promises to release a 25-megapixel Alpha DSLR this September. It will be sweet, but being the highest in megapixels doesn't guarantee its place in the winner's circle.

So when you're out camera shopping, don't think that more megapixels is more better. A lot of review sites will list the size of a camera's image sensor (plus the other stuff obviously) and a 6MP camera with a sensor the same size as an 8MP model is gonna take better pictures. Check out these two Kodak point and shoots from CES, the m1033 and Z1085. Same megapixel count, but the Z1085 has a bigger sensor (1/1.7-inches is larger than 1/2.3-inches, non-math majors) and will almost certainly shoot less noisy pictures.

Of course, a DSLR will take better shots than any point-and-shoot, but while DSLRs are getting cheaper every day (only $475 for a Nikon D40 or $450 for a Canon Digital Rebel XT (both with lens) that might not fit everyone's budget. Plus, they don't fit in your pocket, like your dumb cameraphone.

Something we missed, or you still wanna know? Send any questions about cameras (or anything else) to tips@gizmodo.com, with "Giz Explains" in the subject line.

Problem: Waterproof Rugged Cameras Are Too Easy to Lose!

Brian Lam — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 23:01:52 EDT

Rugged and waterproof cameras are great, but they've got a lot of improving to do in general design before they'll be good in the outdoors. I mean, someone just keep me from losing these things.

The first waterproof camera I used was a Pentax W10 in 2006, one of the first simple cams that didn't need a case. It was only guaranteed to a depth of 5 feet, but it shot video, and that's all I needed for some snorkeling on a Kauai's north shore. I still have shorts of fish and turtles I took then. A year later, I used the same camera and lost it off some reef near a friend's house in Oahu. The current was strong and I was not, and when I swam to a safe spot the camera's lanyard had slipped off my wrist. The shiny little Pentax wasn't so shiny below the waves.

The second rugged, water resistant camera I used was a pistol gripped Sanyo E1. It was a lot more powerful of a camera, shooting DVD quality vids and 6 megapixel shots, but a lot bulkier than the Pentax. I called it in to use for the winter, during the snowboarding season. I couldn't use it but on the first day I used it, I noticed I couldn't toggle the buttons without removing my gloves, and mounting it on my strap as I rode wouldn't be a great idea anyhow. I lost it after not zipping a pocket after taking some shots and making a blistering run.

I'd chalk up these loses to my own user error to some extent, but if these cameras are waterproof and rugged enough to withstand the elements, shouldn't they also be fitted with accessories that assume the worst? Straps that can be fitted to gloves, neck lanyards, neoprene arm bands, or even orange buoys that can keep the cams from sinking during water adventures. I don't know. I just think that there has to be a better solution to keeping these cameras secured in the outdoors than the simple lanyards you find on your average point and shoot.

Samsung Developing Full-Frame Pro DSLR

matt buchanan — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 20:50:01 EDT

The new horserace for DSLR cameramakers is in full-frame (equivalent to 35mm) pro cameras, formerly a Canon-dominated market. Nikon's stunning D3 was its first full-frame DSLR (after years of saying it's unnecessary) and Sony unveiled its own 25MP whopper in January (they're trying to quickly build technical prestige). Now Samsung has let on it's cooking its own full-frame sensor for a pro camera. They're probably co-developing with Pentax (again) since the exec that slipped the plans re-emphasized their coziness, so we'll likely see the same sensor in cameras from both makers, with differentiation in the body and software. Digital Camera Review says that the Pentax K20D's "image quality is among the best I've seen in the sub $2,000 price range," and Pentax usually delivers a nice price-to-performance ratio, so this could make the full-frame DSLR market a lot more interesting. [Amateur Photographer via Electronista]

Pentax K20D DSLR Gets Official With 14.6 Megapixels, Live View and Expanded Dynamic Range

matt buchanan — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:00:45 EST

Pentax's long-rumored $1299 K20D is a shot square at Canon's 40D and the Nikon D300. Besides price, it bests both in pure megapixel count—14.6 effective, with a new CMOS sensor developed w/ Samsung—and rocks the same top 3200 ISO (6400 expanded) as the D300. (Is it as impressively noiseless though?) Expanded Dynamic Range promises more contrast-y shots, plus image stabilization is built into the camera's body. Like the 40D and D300 it adds a live viewfinder, but it's a bit tinier, 2.7 inches to their 3, with less than a third of the D300's resolution, so the screen won't be nearly as gorgeous. It comes up a little short against the competition in a couple of other ways, too. Update: If you're really drooling over the K20D, have a look at the new Pentax-produced walkthrough video below.

For one, its continuous shooting mode tops out at 3 FPS at full quality, half of either the 40D or D300. Also, unlike what was rumored, its RAW A/D processor only 12-bit, coming in a smidge below their 14-bit processors. Still, it looks like a solid camera for the price. All of the dirty details for photo fiends below.

MODEL: K20D
TYPE: Digital SLR
PRODUCT CODE:
Body Kit: 19381, UPC: 027075130814
SENSOR
Type: CMOS with primary color filter and integrated Shake/Dust Reduction sensor movement system
Size: 23.4 x 15.6mm
Color depth: 8 bits/channel JPG, 12 bits/channel RAW
Effective pixels: 14.6 MP
Total pixels: 15.1 MP
Recorded resolutions: 4672x3104 (14.6M), 3872x2592 (10M), 3008x2000 (6M), 1824x1216 (2M)
Quality levels:  Premium,  Best,  Better,  Good
Dust Removal: Image sensor movement combined with SP coating

LENS MOUNT
Type/construction: Pentax KAF2 bayonet stainless steel mount
Usable lenses: Pentax KAF2, KAF, and KA (K mount, 35mm screwmount, 645/67 med format useable w/ adapter and/or restrictions)
SDM function: YES
Power zoom function: YES

FOCUS SYSTEM
Type: TTL phase-matching 11 point wide autofocus system (SAFOX VIII)
Focus modes: AF Single (w/ focus lock), AF Continuous, Manual
Focus point adjustment: Auto, User-selectable, Center
AF assist: YES, via built-in flash

VIEWFINDER
Type: Pentaprism
Coverage (field of view): 95%
Magnification: 0.95x (w/ 50mm f/1.4 at infinity)
Standard focusing screen: Natural-Bright-Matte II
Diopter adjustment: -2.5 to 1.5
Depth of field preview: Optical diaphragm stop down, Digital, Live View (FOV 100%, magnification 4x/8x available, grid pattern available)
LCD MONITOR
Type: 2.7" TFT color LCD monitor, adjustable brightness/color, Live View available (TTL by image sensor, 100% FOV)
Resolution: Approx 230,000 dots
Wide angle viewable: YES, approx 160° horizontal/vertical

BUILT-IN FLASH
Type: Retractable P-TTL popup flash
Guide number: 13 (100/m)
Coverage: 28mm wide angle (equivalent to 35mm)
Flash modes: on, redeye, slow sync, slow sync + redeye, trailing curtain sync, wireless
Flash exposure compensation: -2 to +1 EV in 1/2 steps
EXTERNAL FLASH
Type: Hot Shoe (P-TTL, high speed sync available), Wireless with PENTAX dedicated flash, X-Sync socket
Synchronization speed: 1/180s

STORAGE MEDIA
Internal memory: n/a
Removable memory: SD, SDHC

INTERFACES
Ports: USB 2.0 hi-speed, video out, DC input, cable switch, X-Sync socket
Video out: NTSC, PAL
Printer interfaces: PictBridge

POWER SUPPLY
Power source: Rechargeable Li-Ion battery D-LI50, BG2 Battery Grip (optional) for second D-LI50 battery
Recordable images: Approx 740 (approx 530 with 50% flash)
Playback time: Approx 330 min
AC adapter available: YES (optional)

PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Body dimensions (W x H x D): 5.6 x 4.0 x 2.76"
Body weight
Without battery or removable memory: 25.2 oz
Loaded and ready: 28.2 oz
Construction material(s): Reinforced plastic polymer shell surrounding a rugged stainless steel chassis
Operating temperature: 32-104°F

IMAGE STABILIZATION
Type: Body-based, sensor shift Shake Reduction (4 stops maximum)

METERING SYSTEM
Type: TTL open-aperture, 16 segment metering
Sensitivity range: EV 0-21 (ISO 100, 50mm f/1.4)
Multi-segment: YES, 16 segments
Center weighted: YES
Spot: YES
Exposure compensation: +/- 3EV (1/2 steps), +/- 2EV (1/3 steps)
Exposure lock: YES
Exposure bracketing: YES, 3 or 5 frames, up to +/- 2EV (1/2 or 1/3 steps)

ISO SENSITIVITY
Auto: 100-3200 ISO (1, 1/2, 1/3 steps), Bulb mode up to ISO 1600, expanded range ISO available to ISO 6400
Manual: 100-3200 ISO (1, 1/2, 1/3 steps), Bulb mode up to ISO 1600, expanded range ISO available to ISO 6400

WHITE BALANCE*
Auto preset modes: Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent (W, D, N), Flash, Color Temperature
Manual mode(s): YES
* WB fine adjustment available

SHUTTER
Type: Electronically controlled, vertical run, focal plane shutter
Shutter speed: 1/4000 to 30 sec, bulb available

CAPTURE MODES
Mode selection: Green, Program, Sensitivity Priority, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, Shutter and Aperture Priority, Metered Manual, X Speed, Bulb, USER
Green simplified mode available: YES
P/A/S/M/B: P, A, S, M, B (extended modes include Sv, TAv)
Date stamp: n/a
Digital filters (capture): Custom Image Function includes Bright, Natural, Portrait, Landscape, and Vibrant modes, each with gamut radar and fine adjustment of saturation, hue, contrast, and sharpness. Monochrome includes adjustment for filter effects (green, yellow, orange, red, magenta, blue, cyan, infrared), toning (sepia warm/cool), contrast, and sharpness (regular and fine adjustment scales).
Data record: Folder Name (standard, date), File Name (standard, customizable)

DRIVE MODES
Mode selection: Single, Continuous (Hi, Lo), Burst (1.6M, JPG), Self-Timer (12s, 2s), Remote (0s, 3s), Remote Continuous, Auto Bracket, Extended Bracket, Multi-Exposure, Interval
Continuous FPS:
- 3.0 FPS (38 JPG and Continuous Hi, 14 RAW PEF, 16 RAW DNG)
- 2.3 FPS (unlimited JPG and Continuous Lo, 14 RAW PEF, 16 RAW DNG)
- 20 FPS in Burst mode (115 at 1.6M, , JPG)
Self-timer: YES (12s, 2s)
Remote control: YES, infrared (0s, 3s, continuous) and cable switch supported

PLAYBACK MODES
Mode selection: One shot, two shots, index (4, 9, or 16 thumbnails), magnification, image rotation, folder view, slideshow, histogram, bright/dark indicators, RAW to JPG
Magnification: Up to 32x, scrollable
Digital filters (playback): B&W (4), Sepia (3), Color (18), Color Extract (6), Soft (3), Illustration, HDR (3), Slim (+/- 8), Brightness (+/- 8)

FILE FORMATS
Still: RAW PEF/DNG, JPG (EXIF 2.21), DCF 2.0 (design rule for camera file system), DPOF, Print Image Matching III
CUSTOM FUNCTIONS
Functions available: 36

FILE STORAGE MATRIX (BASED ON 1GB MEMORY)
JPG **** *** ** *
4672x3104 (14.6M) 68 117 212 411
3872x2592 (10M) 101 168 296 616
3008x2000 (6M) 176 285 491 915
1824x1216 (2M) 461 737 1233 2238
RAW
4672x3120 (14.6M) 40

COMPUTER SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS*
*For device connectivity. Bundled software requirements may vary.
Windows: Windows XP/Vista, USB port
Mac: MacOS 10.2 or later, USB 2.0 port

KIT INCLUSIONS
K20D body, USB Cable I-USB17, Video Cable I-VC28, Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery D-LI50, Battery Charge Cradle D-BC50, AC Plug Cord, Strap O-ST53, Hotshoe Cover FK, Eyecup FP, Body Mount Cover, Finder Cap for ME, Focusing Screen LF-80 Frame Matte, Bottom Cap K10D, Software CD-ROM S-SW74/75

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
AC Adapter Kit D-AC50, Battery Charger Kit K-BC50, Battery Grip BG2, Cap D-BG2 (for battery grip), Focusing Screen LL-80 AF Divided Matte, Focusing Screen LI-80 AF Scale Matte, Remote Control F, Cable Switch CS-205, Magnifying Eyepiece O-ME53, DSLR Gadget Bag, DSLR Sling Bag

Pentax K200D Swipes K10D's 10.2-Megapixel Imager for Hot Entry-Level DSLR

matt buchanan — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:00:40 EST

Pentax's previously peeked and rumored K200D also officially exists today, bringing with it a 10.2MP hand-me-down sensor from the K10D, Pentax's now-outdated prosumer model. It's on the same strata as Nikon's D80, with same MP count (its sensor is a smidge smaller, 23.5 x 15.7mm to the D80's 23.6 x 15.8mm), 12 bits/channel RAW and 100-1600 ISO range, though the K200D is a bit cheaper ($800 w/ lens), has a bigger screen (2.7 inches) and shoots a slightly slower continuously (2.8FPS to 3). Like the K20D, it has Expand Dynamic Range for poppier images, and image stabilization ("shake reduction" in Pentax-speak) built into the camera's body. Update: If all of this has raised an eyebrow, take a look at the K200D video walkthrough we just got, down below.

Interestingly, they chose not to trickle down live view as a differentiator, which could hurt depending on whether or not Canon puts it in their rumored EOS 400D successor. Of course, this could indicate makers writ large are leaning against doing so for now to keep some distance between entry-level and pricier models.

MODEL: K200D
TYPE: Digital SLR
PRODUCT CODE:
Body Kit: 19541, UPC: 027075138131
Lens Kit: 19554, UPC: 027075139855
SENSOR
Type: Interline interlace CCD with primary color filter and integrated Shake/Dust Reduction sensor movement system
Size: 23.5 x 15.7mm
Color depth: 8 bits/channel JPG, 12 bits/channel RAW
Effective pixels: 10.2 MP
Total pixels: 10.75 MP
Recorded resolutions: 3872x2592 (10M), 3008x2000 (6M), 1824x1216 (2M)
Quality levels:  Best,  Better,  Good
Dust removal: Image sensor movement combined with SP coating

LENS MOUNT
Type/construction: Pentax KAF2 bayonet stainless steel mount
Usable lenses: Pentax KAF2, KAF, and KA (K mount, 35mm screwmount, 645/67 med format useable w/ adapter and/or restrictions)
SDM function: YES
Power zoom function: n/a

FOCUS SYSTEM
Type: TTL phase-matching 11 point wide autofocus system (SAFOX VIII)
Focus modes: AF Single (w/ focus lock), Manual, AF Continuous available in Action mode (including Auto Pict Action), Kids mode, Pet mode, P/A/S/M/B/Sv
Focus point adjustment: Auto, User-Selectable, Center
AF assist: YES, via built-in flash

VIEWFINDER
Type: Penta-Mirror
Coverage (field of view): 96%
Magnification: 0.85x (w/ 50mm f/1.4 at infinity)
Standard focusing screen: Natural-Bright-Matte II
Diopter adjustment: -2.5 to 1.5
Depth of field preview: Optical diaphragm stop down, Digital

LCD MONITOR
Type: 2.7" TFT color LCD monitor, adjustable brightness
Resolution: Approx 230,000 dots
Wide angle viewable: YES, approx 160° horizontal/vertical

BUILT-IN FLASH
Type: Retractable P-TTL popup flash
Guide number: 13 (100/m)
Coverage: 28mm wide angle (equivalent to 35mm)
Flash modes: TBA
Flash exposure compensation: -2 to 1 EV in 1/2 steps

EXTERNAL FLASH
Type: Hot Shoe (P-TTL, high speed sync available), Wireless with PENTAX dedicated flash
Synchronization speed: 1/180s

STORAGE MEDIA
Internal memory: n/a
Removable memory: SD, SDHC

INTERFACES
Ports: USB 2.0 hi-speed, video out, DC input, cable switch
Video out: NTSC, PAL
Printer interfaces: PictBridge

POWER SUPPLY
Power source: 4* AA (lithium, alkaline, NiMH rechargeable)
Recordable images: Approx 1100 w/ lithium (approx 550 w/ 50% flash use)
Playback time: Approx 700 min
AC adapter available: YES (optional)

PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Body dimensions (W x H x D): 5.2 x 3.7 x 2.9"
Body weight
Without battery or removable memory: 22.2 oz
Loaded and ready: 24.3 oz w/ lithium batteries (25.6 oz w/ alkaline batteries)
Construction material(s): Reinforced plastic polymer shell around a rugged stainless steel chassis
Operating temperature: 32-104°F

IMAGE STABILIZATION
Type: Body-based, sensor shift Shake Reduction (4 stops maximum)

METERING SYSTEM
Type: TTL open aperture, 16 segment metering
Sensitivity range: EV 0-21 (ISO 100, 50mm f/1.4)
Multi-segment: YES, 16 segments
Center weighted: YES
Spot: YES
Exposure compensation: +/- 2 EV (1/2 or 1/3 steps)
Exposure lock: YES
Exposure bracketing: YES, 3 frames, up to +/- 1.5 (1/2 steps) or +/- 1.0 (1/3 steps)

ISO SENSITIVITY
Auto: 100-1600 ISO (1, 1/2, 1/3 steps)
Manual: 100-1600 ISO (1, 1/2, 1/3 steps)

WHITE BALANCE*
Auto preset modes: Auto, Daylight, Shade, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent (W, D, N), Flash, Color Temperature
Manual mode(s): YES
* WB fine adjustment available

SHUTTER
Type: Electronically controlled, vertical run, focal plane shutter
Shutter speed: 1/4000 to 30 sec, bulb available

CAPTURE MODES
Mode selection: Auto Picture, Picture (Portrait, Landscape, Macro, Action, Night Scene Portrait, Standard Flash-Off), Scene (Night Scene, Surf & Snow, Food, Sunset, Kids, Pet, Candlelight, Museum), Program, Sensitivity Priority, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, Metered Manual, Bulb
Green simplified mode available: n/a
P/A/S/M/B: P, A, S, M, B (extended modes include Sv)
Date stamp: n/a
Digital filters (capture): TBA
Data record: Folder Name (standard, date)

DRIVE MODES
Mode selection: Single, Continuous (Hi, Lo), Self-Timer (12s, 2s), Remote (0s, 3s), Auto Bracket
Continuous FPS:
- 2.8 FPS (4 JPG and Continuous Hi, 4 RAW)
- 1.1 FPS (unlimited JPG and Continuous Lo, 4 RAW)
Self-timer: YES (12s, 2s)
Remote control: YES, infrared (0s, 3s) and cable switch supported

PLAYBACK MODES
Mode selection: One shot, two shots, index (4, 9, or 16 thumbnails), magnification, image rotation, folder view, slideshow, histogram, bright/dark indicators, RAW to JPG
Magnification: Up to 16x, scrollable
Digital filters (playback): B&W, Sepia, Color (18), Soft (3), Illustration, HDR (3), Slim (+/- 8), Brightness (+/- 8)

FILE FORMATS
Still: RAW PEF/DNG, JPG (EXIF 2.21), DCF 2.0 (design rule for camera file system), DPOF, Print Image Matching III

CUSTOM FUNCTIONS
Functions available: 23

FILE STORAGE MATRIX (BASED ON 1GB MEMORY)
JPG *** ** *
3872x2592 (10M) 202 343 586
3008x2000 (6M) 335 570 974
1824x1216 (2M) 902 1549 2627
RAW
3872x2592 (10M) 58

COMPUTER SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS*
*For device connectivity. Bundled software requirements may vary.
Windows: Windows XP/Vista, USB port
Mac: MacOS 10.2 or later, USB 2.0 port

KIT INCLUSIONS
K200D body (18-55 lens with lens kit), USB Cable I-USB17, Video Cable I-VC28, Strap O-ST53, Hotshoe Cover FK, Eyecup FO, Body Mount Cover, Finder Cap for ME, Software CD-ROM S-SW74, AA Lithium Batteries (*4)

OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
AC Adapter Kit K-AC76U, Battery Grip BG3, Remote Control F, Cable Switch CS-205, Magnifying Eyepiece O-ME53 (1.2x), DSLR Gadget Bag, DSLR Sling Bag

Pentax Optio M50 Comes in Pink, Silver and Blue But Mostly Vanilla

Wilson Rothman — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST

Here's what $230 will buy you in the point-n-shoot world right now, as embodied by the pleasantly mainstream Pentax Optio M50: a sleek little body (under 4" wide and just over 2" high), a 5X optical zoom lens, an 8-megapixel sensor, and a choice of pink, blue or silver. Little perks like "Smile Capture" make this fun at parties, but no one is going to murder you for it in some dark alley. Come to think of it, depending on where you live it might be a really smart buy. Detailed specs after jump. [Pentax]

The PENTAX Optio M50, with a 5X optical zoom housed in an ultra compact body with fun color options, is the ideal combination of style, function and price for both customers looking to update their camera and new digital users. The camera features a unique Smile Capture function, which distinguishes smiles on a subject and automatically releases the shutter. Available in three color choices including silver, light blue and pink, the Optio M50 will ship in March 2008 for US $229.95.
CAMERA HARDWARE

MODEL: Optio M50
TYPE: Ultra-compact digital camera
PRODUCT CODE:
Silver: 17103, UPC: 027075140400
Light Blue: 17156, UPC: 027075139602
Pink: 17116, UPC: 027075139565

SENSOR
Type: 1/2.35" interline transfer CCD w/ primary color filter
Effective pixels: 8.0 MP
Total pixels: 8.50 MP
Recorded resolutions
Still: 3264x2448 (8M), 2592x1944 (5M), 2304x1728 (4M), 2048x1536 (3M), 1600x1200 (2M), 1024x768 (1024), 640x480 (VGA)
Movie: 640x480 (VGA), 320x240 (QVGA)
Quality levels:  Best,  Better,  Good

LENS
Type/construction: Pentax zoom lens, 8 elements, 6 groups (4 aspherical elements)
Optical zoom: 5x
Focal length (equiv.): 6.3-31.5mm (36-180mm)
Digital zoom: 5.1x
Combined zoom: 25.5x
Intelligent zoom: Approx 6.3x at 5M to 25.5x at VGA
Aperture: f/3.5-5.6

LCD/VIEWFINDER
LCD screen: 2.5" TFT color LCD
LCD coverage: TBA
LCD resolution: 230,000 dots
Wide angle viewable: YES
Optical viewfinder: n/a

FOCUS SYSTEM
Type: TTL contrast detection autofocus
Autofocus: 9 point autofocus, multi/spot/auto-tracking autofocus available
Manual focus: YES
Macro focus: YES
Focus lock: YES, by pressing the shutter release button half way
Focus range:
Normal: 1.31' to infinity (wide), 2.95' to infinity (tele)
Macro: 0.33-1.64' (wide), 1.97-3.3' (tele)
Manual: TBA

FLASH
Type: Built-in series-control auto flash
Flash modes: Auto, flash on, flash off, redeye
Effective range: 14' (wide, auto ISO), 9.2' (tele, auto ISO)

STORAGE MEDIA
Internal memory: 51.1 MB
Removable memory: SD, SDHC

INTERFACES
Ports: USB 2.0 hi-speed, AV out
Video out: NTSC, PAL
Printer interfaces: PictBridge

POWER SUPPLY
Power source: Rechargeable Li-Ion battery D-LI78
Recordable images: Approx 210
Playback time: Approx 240 min
Movie recording time: Approx 70 min
Audio recording time: Approx 300 min
AC adapter available: YES (optional)

PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions (W x H x D): 3.7 x 2.2 x 0.9"
Weight
Without battery or removable memory: 4.1 oz
Loaded and ready: 4.6 oz
Construction material(s): TBA
Operating temperature: 32-104°F

TIMING
Startup: Approx 2.0 sec
Release lag: Approx 0.003 sec

LANGUAGE SUPPORT
English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Dutch, Danish, Swedish, Finnish, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Turkish, Russian, Thai, Korean, Traditional/Simplified Chinese, Japanese

IMAGE CAPTURE

IMAGE STABILIZATION
Still: Digital SR Mode (auto up to 6400 ISO)
Movie: Movie SR Mode

METERING SYSTEM
Type: TTL
Multi-segment: YES
Center weighted: YES
Spot: YES
Exposure compensation: +/- 2 EV (1/3 steps)

ISO SENSITIVITY
Auto: 64-6400 (ISO 6400 only available in Digital SR mode)
Manual: 64-6400 (ISO 6400 only available in Digital SR mode)

WHITE BALANCE
Auto preset modes: Auto, Daylight, Shade, Tungsten, Fluorescent
Manual mode(s): YES

SHUTTER
Type: TBA
Shutter speed: 1/2000 to 4 sec (4 sec available in Night Scene mode)

CAPTURE MODES
Mode selection: Auto Picture (xxxxx, xxxxx, xxxxx, xxxxx), Program, Night Scene, Movie, Voice Recording, Landscape, Flower, Natural Skin Tone, Portrait, Surf & Snow, Sport, Digital SR (5M), Kids, Pet, Food, Panorama, Digital Wide Angle (5M), Green
Green simplified mode available: YES
Face recognition available: YES, up to 15 faces in all modes, smile capture available
P/A/S/M/B: P
Date stamp: YES (not available in Green Mode)
Digital filters (capture): n/a

DRIVE MODES
Mode selection: One shot, self timer, continuous, Frame Composite (3M)
Continuous FPS: Approx 1.45 FPS
Self-timer: YES
Remote control: n/a

PLAYBACK MODES
Mode selection: One shot, index (9 thumbnails), magnification, movie playback, sound playback, histogram, bright/dark indication, folder display, select & delete, calendar
Mode pallet: Digital SR, slideshow, resize, trimming, image & sound copy, image rotation, digital filter, movie edit, frame composite, redeye edit, voice memo, protect, DPOF, image recovery, startup image, face zooming
Magnification: Up to 8x, scrollable
Digital filters (playback): B&W, sepia, color filters (6), color extract (3), soft, brightness
Movie edit: Save as still image, movie divide

FILE FORMATS
Still: JPG (EXIF 2.2), DCF 2.0 (design rule for camera file system), DPOF, Print Image Matching III
Movie: AVI (Motion JPG), 30/15 FPS w/ sound, color/sepia/B&W, Movie SR
Sound: WAV (PCM), monaural

FILE STORAGE MATRIX (BASED ON 1GB MEMORY)
STILL   
3264x2448 (8M) 242 465 701
2592x1944 (5M) 378 714 1014
2304x1728 (4M) 472 924 1297
2048x1536 (3M) 590 1155 1653
1600x1200 (2M) 943 1547 2277
1024x768 (1024) 1801 2873 3657
640x480 (VGA) 3657 5486 7100
MOVIE 30FPS (15FPS)   
VGA (640x480) H:M:S 0:15:10 (0:30:01) 0:20:19 (0:40:14) 0:30:56 (1:00:57)
QVGA (320x240) H:M:S 0:23:56 (0:47:20) 0:32:42 (1:03:51) 0:47:20 (1:31:26)
SOUND H:M:S 12:28:41

COMPUTER SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS*
*For device connectivity. Bundled software requirements may vary.
Windows: TBA
Mac: TBA
KIT INCLUSIONS
Optio M50, USB Cable I-USB7, AV Cable I-AVC7, Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery D-LI78, Battery Charge Cradle D-BC78(A), AC Plug Cord, Strap O-ST51, Software S-SW77
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
AC Adapter Kit K-AC78U, Battery Charger Kit K-BC78U, PTX-211 or PTX-210, PTC-L45 or PTC-L50, Optio Extended Warranty

Pentax Optio S12 Is the Tiniest 12-Megapixel Around

Wilson Rothman — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 17:00:00 EST

We're not saying pixel count matters anymore, or that anyone can tell the difference between an 8-megapixel shot and a 10-megapixel shot anyway, but if you want something unusual to brag about, the Pentax Optio S12 is certainly unique. The $280 camera has a 12-megapixel sensor not a whole lot else—that tiny little 5-oz. body measures 3.6" x 2.2" with a thickness of just under an inch. As you can expect, it's got just a 3x optical zoom lens and a rather nice 232,00-pixel 2.5" LCD, but sadly, in spite of its massive image sensor it only records VGA movies. I'm still trying to guess what it would be best for, besides cocktail party conversation, besides making massive poster-sized images of close-up subjects on the fly. Detailed specs and another picture after the jump. [Pentax]

CAMERA HARDWARE
MODEL: Optio S12
TYPE: Ultra-compact digital camera
PRODUCT CODE:
Silver: 17021, UPC: 027075139428
Black: 17041, UPC: 027075139473

SENSOR
Type: 1/1.7" interline transfer CCD w/ primary color filter
Effective pixels: 12.0 MP
Total pixels: 12.4 MP
Recorded resolutions
Still: 4000x3000 (12M), 3648x2736 (10M), 3072x2304 (7M), 2592x1944 (5M), 2048x1536 (3M), 1024x768 (1024), 640x480 (VGA)
Movie: 640x480 (VGA), 320x240 (QVGA)
Quality levels:  Best,  Better,  Good

LENS
Type/construction: smc Pentax zoom lens, 7 elements, 5 groups (2 dual sided aspherical elements, 1 single sided aspherical element)
Optical zoom: 3x
Focal length (equiv.): 7.9-23.7mm (37-111mm)
Digital zoom: 6x
Combined zoom: 18x
Intelligent zoom: Approx 3.3x at 10M, 3.9x at 7M, 4.6x at 5M, 5.7x at 3M, 11.4x at 1024, 17.9x at VGA
Aperture: f/2.8-5.4

LCD/VIEWFINDER
LCD screen: 2.5" TFT color LCD with LCD Bright Mode and anti-reflective coating
LCD coverage: TBA
LCD resolution: 232,000 dots
Wide angle viewable: YES
Optical viewfinder: n/a

FOCUS SYSTEM
Type: TTL contrast detection autofocus w/ AF assist lamp
Autofocus: 5 point autofocus, spot/tracking autofocus available
Manual focus: YES
Macro focus: YES, macro and super macro available
Focus lock: YES, by pressing the shutter release button half way
Focus range
Normal: 1.15' to infinity
Macro: 0.39-1.31' (wide)
Super Macro: 0.20-0.49' (wide)
Manual: TBA

FLASH
Type: Built-in series-control auto flash
Flash modes: Auto, flash on, flash off, redeye, soft
Effective range: Approx 22' (wide, auto ISO), 11' (tele, auto ISO)

STORAGE MEDIA
Internal memory: 21 MB
Removable memory: SD, SDHC

INTERFACES
Ports: USB 2.0 hi-speed, AV out, DC in
Video out: NTSC, PAL
Printer interfaces: PictBridge

POWER SUPPLY
Power source: Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery D-LI68
Recordable images: Approx 270
Playback time: Approx 270 min
Movie recording time: Approx 80 min
Audio recording time: Approx 220 min
AC adapter available: YES (optional)

PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions (W x H x D): 3.6 x 2.2 x 0.9"
Weight
Without battery or removable memory: 4.6 oz
Loaded and ready: 5.3 oz
Construction material(s): TBA
Operating temperature: 32-104°F

TIMING
Startup: Approx 2.1s
Release lag: Approx 0.006s

LANGUAGE SUPPORT
English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Dutch, Danish, Swedish, Finnish, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Turkish, Russian, Thai, Korean, Traditional/Simplified Chinese, Japanese

IMAGE CAPTURE

IMAGE STABILIZATION
Still: Digital SR Mode (auto up to 3200 ISO)
Movie: Movie SR Mode

METERING SYSTEM
Type: TTL
Multi-segment: YES
Center weighted: YES
Spot: YES
Exposure compensation: +/- 2 EV (1/3 steps)

ISO SENSITIVITY
Auto: 64-3200 (3200 in Digital SR mode), auto range adjustable
Manual: 64-3200 (3200 in Digital SR mode)

WHITE BALANCE
Auto preset modes: Auto, Daylight, Shade, Tungsten, Fluorescent
Manual mode(s): YES

SHUTTER
Type: TBA
Shutter speed: 1/2000 to 1/4 sec (4 sec available in Night Scene mode)

CAPTURE MODES
Mode selection: Auto Picture (xxxx, xxxx, xxxx, xxxx), Program, Shutter Priority, Manual, Night Scene, Movie, Voice Recording, Landscape, Flower, Natural Skin Tone, Portrait, Half Length Portrait (3M), Kids, Digital SR (5M), Sport, Surf & Snow, Pet, Text, Food, Frame Composite (3M), Dynamic Range Adjustment (auto and manual adjustments)
Green simplified mode available: YES
Face recognition available: YES, up to 15 faces in all modes, face selector available
P/A/S/M/B: P, S, M
Date stamp: YES (not available in Green Mode)
Digital filters (capture): n/a

DRIVE MODES
Mode selection: One shot, self timer (10s, 2s), continuous, remote control (3s, 0s), multi-exposure (5M)
Continuous FPS: Approx 1.47 FPS
Self-timer: YES (10s, 2s)
Remote control: YES, infrared (3s, 0s), remote optional

PLAYBACK MODES
Mode selection: One shot, index (9 thumbnails), magnification, movie playback, sound playback, histogram, select & delete, calendar
Mode pallet: Slideshow, resize, trimming, image & sound copy, image rotation, color filter, digital filter, brightness filter, movie edit, redeye edit, voice memo, protect, DPOF, startup image, frame composite (3M)
Magnification: Up to 8x, scrollable
Digital filters (playback): Color filters (13), digital filters (5), brightness
Movie edit: Save as still image, movie divide, movie extract

FILE FORMATS
Still: JPG (EXIF 2.2), DCF 2.0 (design rule for camera file system), DPOF, Print Image Matching III
Movie: AVI (DivX with MPG-4), 30 FPS w/ sound, Movie SR
Sound: WAV (PCM), monaural

FILE STORAGE MATRIX (BASED ON 1GB MEMORY)
STILL   
4000x3000 (12M) 201 291 404
3648x2736 (10M) 242 350 486
3072x2304 (7M) 342 495 685
2592x1944 (5M) 481 695 963
2048x1536 (3M) 728 1053 1458
1024x768 (1024) 1856 2682 3714
640x480 (VGA) 3405 4918 6811
MOVIE   
VGA (640x480) H:M:S 0:46:00 0:57:38 1:09:11
QVGA (320x240) H:M:S 2:57:56 3:41:03 4:14:52
SOUND H:M:S 17:11:28

COMPUTER SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS*
*For device connectivity. Bundled software requirements may vary.
Windows: TBA
Mac: TBA
KIT INCLUSIONS
Optio S12, USB Cable I-USB7, AV Cable I-AVC7(B), Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery D-LI68, Battery Charge Cradle D-BC68(C), AC Plug Cord, Strap O-ST20, Software TBA
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
AC Adapter Kit K-AC63U, Battery Charger Kit K-BC68U, PTX-210-LHM Leather Case, PTC-L45 Small Nylon Case, Remote Control E (w/ zoom), Remote Control F, Optio Extended Warranty (2 year)

Supposed Pentax K200D Pictures Leaked All Over the Web

Haroon Malik — Sat, 29 Dec 2007 14:14:00 EST

We previously told you guys about two new SLRs Pentax were rumored to be readying. Well, it looks like images of the K200D have hit the old interweb, and although we have no new word on confirmed spec—the original rumor suggested a 10MP Sony Sensor, PRIME 12-bit image processor and a 3-inch LCD—the images look solid. Either that or someone has some super sexy PS skills, in which case, we are still searching for an art intern. However, we are guessing this is the real deal, click through the gallery to see why. [Photography Bay]

Pentax K20D and K200D Digital SLRs Rumored

Charlie White — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 09:45:16 EST

Rumors fly about a couple of shiny new Pentax digital SLRs, possibly rolling out January 24th just in time for the Photo Marketing Association (PMA) convention. The Pentax K20D will allegedly replace and look a lot like the $799 K10D (pictured above) that shipped over a year ago, and the K200D is due to replace the aging K100D. If the rumors are true, this is going to be good.

The K20D is said to have a 14-megapixel CMOS sensor instead of the K10D's 10.2-megapixel sensor, along with a 14-bit RAW A/D Processor and our favorite, a 3-inch live view LCD. There will be improved image stabilization inside the virtually unchanged camera body, a shake reduction system Pentax has traditionally approached by moving the CCD rather than shifting lens elements.

The K200D will have a 10-megapixel sensor manufactured by Sony, and a PRIME 12-bit image processor. It will be able to crank out three frames per second, and also may have that larger 3-inch LCD.

There was no word about the main weakness of the Pentax line, its uninspiring collection of lenses. And after all, isn't a wide lens selection one of the most enticing attributes of digital SLRs? [Photography Bay photo by dpreview]

Time to Upgrade: The Best DSLRs for Under 600 Bucks

Matt Buchanan — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 16:20:37 EDT

Laptop Mag's running a roundup of "the best DSLRs under $800," but all of them actually go for around $500 (w/ lens), Sony's A100 excepted, which is just under $600. Of the group—Canon Digital Rebel XT, Nikon D40, Pentax K100D and Sony Alpha A100—they ultimately side with the D40, but truth be told, there isn't a world of difference between them all. They're all great cameras for the money, really—it comes down to personal preference.

Another note: If you're looking to spend all the way up to $800, the XT and D40's bigger brothers, the XTi and D40x, are both available with a lens for under $700 from Amazon, and Newegg's throwing in a free 1GB CF card and 60GB external hard drive with the XTi. You can't go wrong either way. [Laptop Mag]

Pentax Optio V10 Slim Camera

Brian Lam — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:35:40 EDT

The other Pentax launched today is this 8MP slim that is about 2cm thick. Not bad, but a quick Google search shows that Sony's had thinner Cybershots, even if at lower MP ratings. (Not sure if that's counting the big lens cover slides that most T series cams have.) The back has a 3-inch LCD.

Ultra-thin design is achieved using a new compact battery and miniaturized circuit boards
Huge 3.0 inch LCD monitor makes it easy to compose and review images

8.0 megapixel CCD and 3x optical zoom assure high resolution images

Face Recognition Auto Focus and Auto Exposure assure properly exposed portraits

Digital Shake Reduction mode automatically selects higher ISO setting

Powerful flash captures images even in dark locations

Auto Picture mode quickly selects camera settings based on the scene

16 additional capture modes offer versatility

Auto Macro mode allows close-up photography

CAMERA HARDWARE

MODEL: Optio V10
TYPE: Ultra Compact Digital Camera
PRODUCT CODE: 19481, UPC: 027075135932

SENSOR
Type: 1/2.35" interline transfer CCD
Effective pixels: 8.0MP
Total pixels: 8.5MP
Recorded resolutions
Still: 8M (3264x2448), 5M (2592x1944), 4M (2304x1728), 3M (2048x1536), 2M (1600x1200), 1024 (1024x768), VGA (640x480)
Movie: VGA (640x480), QVGA (320x240)
Quality levels:  (best),  (better),  (good)

LENS
Type/construction: Pentax zoom lens, 6 elements, 5 groups, 4 aspherical elements
Optical zoom: 3x
Focal length (equiv.): 6.3-18.9mm (36-108mm)
Digital zoom: 4x
Combined zoom: 12x
Aperture: f/3.1-5.9

LCD/VIEWFINDER
LCD screen: 3.0" TFT color LCD
LCD resolution: 230,000 pixels
Wide angle viewable: YES
Optical viewfinder: n/a

FOCUS SYSTEM
Type: TTL Contrast Detection Autofocus
Autofocus: 9 point autofocus, Spot Autofocus, Auto Tracking Autofocus, and Face Priority Autofocus available
Manual focus: YES, Infinity Landscape also available
Macro focus: YES, macro and super-macro available
Focus lock: Available by pressing the shutter release button half way
Focus range: Normal 1.31' to infinity, Macro 0.33-3.30' (at wide), Super Macro 0.16-1.31'

FLASH
Type: Built-in, series-control auto flash
Flash modes: Auto, on, off, redeye reduction
Effective range: Wide 18' (auto ISO), Tele 9.5' (auto ISO)

STORAGE MEDIA
Internal memory: Approx 52.1 MB
Removable memory: SD, SDHC

INTERFACES
Ports: USB 2.0 hi-speed, AV, DC Input
Video out: NTSC, PAL
Printer interfaces: PictBridge

POWER SUPPLY
Power source: D-LI63 rechargeable Li-Ion battery
Recordable images: Approx 200
Playback time: Approx 210 min
Movie recording time: Approx 70 min
Audio recording time: Approx 260 min
AC adapter available: YES (optional)

PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions (W x H x D): 3.8 x 2.3 x 0.7"
Weight
Without battery or removable memory: 4.2 oz
Loaded and ready: 4.9 oz
Construction material(s): Aluminum alloy
Operating temperature: 32-104°F
TIMING
Startup: Approx 2.1 sec
Release lag: Approx 0.04 sec
LANGUAGE SUPPORT
English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Dutch, Danish, Swedish, Finnish, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Turkish, Russian, Thai, Korean, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Japanese

IMAGE CAPTURE

IMAGE STABILIZATION
Still: Digital SR (up to ISO 3200)
Movie: Movie SR
METERING SYSTEM
Type: TTL
Multi-segment: YES
Center weighted: n/a
Spot: n/a
Exposure compensation: +/-2 EV (in 1/3 EV steps)
ISO SENSITIVITY
Auto: 50, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200 (auto up to 3200 in Digital SR mode)
Manual: 50, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200
WHITE BALANCE
Auto preset modes: Auto, Daylight, Shade, Tungsten, Fluorescent
Manual mode(s): YES
SHUTTER
Type: Programmed AE electronic lens shutter w/ CCD electronic shutter
Shutter speed: 1/2000 to 4 sec
CAPTURE MODES
Mode selection: Auto Picture (Landscape, Portrait, Night Scene, Normal), Program, Night Scene, Movie, Voice Recording, Landscape, Flower, Natural Skin Tone, Portrait, Surf & Snow, Sport, Digital SR, Kids, Pet, Food, Frame Composite (3M)
Green simplified mode available: YES
Face recognition available: YES, available in Portrait and Natural Skin Tone modes
P/A/S/M/B: P
Date stamp: YES (not available in Green Mode)
Digital filters (capture): n/a
DRIVE MODES
Mode selection: one shot, self timer (2s, 10s), continuous
Continuous FPS: Approx 1.4 FPS
Self-timer: YES (2s, 10s)
Remote control: n/a
PLAYBACK MODES
Mode selection: One Shot, Index (9 thumbnails), Magnification, Movie Playback, Sound Playback, Histogram, Bright/Dark Indication, Folder Display, Select & Delete, Calendar
Mode Pallet: Slideshow, Resize, Trimming, Image & Sound Copy, Image Rotation, Digital Filter, Brightness Filter, Frame Composite, Redeye Reduction, Voice Memo, Protect, DPOF, Startup Image
Magnification: YES, up to 8x, scroll available
Digital filters (playback): Black and White, Sepia, Color Filter (6 filters available), Color Extract (B&W w/ red, green, blue), Soft
Movie edit: n/a
FILE FORMATS
Still: JPG (EXIF 2.2), DCF, DPOF, Print Image Matching III
Movie: AVI (Motion JPG), 30/15 FPS, w/ sound, color, sepia, monochrome
Sound: WAV (PCM), monaural

Pentax Optio A40 Camera Records in DivX

Brian Lam — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:02:17 EDT

The medium-sized A40 has a 3x zoom, a 12MP rating and digital and mechanical shot stabilization. Coolest is its ability to record in DivX, which I guess is neato for distributing your home movies on BitTorrent, but maybe won't result in high quality movies once you run 'em through iMovie or Windows Movie Maker for a second pass of squishing. Ah, like many of the cameras in this tier, it has face recognition with Natural Skin Tone mode (which turns your skin into the tone of a band-aid, regardless of race), and Half-Length Portrait mode which uses the spare pixelage above to autocrop a photo to shoulder length.

The 12.0 megapixel CCD and 3x optical zoom assure high resolution images
The triple Shake Reduction technology includes SR, Digital SR, and Movie SR

Enhanced Face Recognition Auto Focus and Auto Exposure assure properly exposed portraits

With Dynamic Range Adjustment, highlights and shadow areas will be properly exposed to show more detail

The 2.5" LCD monitor, with Bright mode and wide field of view, makes sharing images easy

High-quality movie captures MPEG-4 DivX® (640 x 480) at 30fps with anti-shake and editing functions

Wide range of automatic and manual exposure modes includes manual exposure and shutter priority modes

Intelligent zoom function enhances the digital zoom

Ultra compact and lightweight design

CAMERA HARDWARE

MODEL: Optio A40
TYPE: Ultra-Compact Digital Camera
PRODUCT CODE: 19361, UPC: 027075130135

SENSOR
Type: 1/1.7" Interline Transfer CCD w/ primary color filter
Effective pixels: 12MP
Total pixels: 12.4MP
Recorded resolutions
Still: 12M (4000x3000), 10M (3648x2736), 7M (3072x2304), 5M (2592x1944), 3M (2048x1536), 1024 (1024x768), VGA (640x480)
Movie: VGA (640x480), QVGA (320x240)
Quality levels:  (best),  (better),  (good)

LENS
Type/construction: smc Pentax Zoom Lens (7E, 5G, 2 dual aspheric lenses, 1 single aspheric lens)
Optical zoom: 3x, 7.9-23.7mm
Focal length (equiv.): 37-111mm
Intelligent zoom: approx. 3.3x (10M), 3.9x (7M), 4.6x (5M), 5.7x (3M), 11.4x (1024), 17.9x (VGA)
Digital zoom: approx 6x
Combined zoom: approx 17.9x
Aperture: f/2.8-5.4

LCD/VIEWFINDER
LCD screen: 2.5" TFT color LCD with LCD Bright Mode, 50 FPS refresh
LCD resolution: 232,000 pixels
Wide angle viewable: YES, 160° horizontal and vertical
Optical viewfinder: n/a

FOCUS SYSTEM
Type: TTL contrast detection autofocus w/ AF assist lamp
Autofocus: 5 point AF, spot, tracking, and face recognition autofocus modes available
Manual focus: YES
Macro focus: YES, macro and super macro
Focus lock: YES, by pressing the shutter release button half way
Focus range: normal 1.15' to infinity, macro 0.39-1.31', super macro 0.20-0.49'
FLASH
Type: built-in series-control auto flash
Flash modes: on, off, auto, redeye, soft flash
Effective range: wide 23' auto ISO, telephoto 11' auto ISO

STORAGE MEDIA
Internal memory: 21MB
Removable memory: SD, SDHC
INTERFACES
Ports: USB 2.0 hi-speed, AV out, DC in
Video out: NTSC and PAL
Printer interfaces: PictBridge
POWER SUPPLY
Power source: Rechargeable D-LI68 lithium ion battery
Recordable images: approx 240
Playback time: approx 250 min
Movie recording time: Approx 80 min
Audio recording time: Approx 210 min
AC adapter available: optional
PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions (W x H x D): 3.6 x 2.2 x 0.9"
Weight
Without battery or removable memory: 4.6 oz
Loaded and ready: 5.3 oz
Construction material(s): aluminum alloy
Operating temperature: 32-104°F
TIMING
Startup: approx 1.8 sec
Release lag: approx 0.005 sec
Shot to Shot: approx 1.25 FPS

LANGUAGE SUPPORT
English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Dutch, Danish, Swedish, Finnish, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Turkish, Russian, Thai, Korean, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Japanese

IMAGE CAPTURE

IMAGE STABILIZATION
Still: sensor shift shake reduction, Digital SR Mode (ISO 3200 at 5MP)
Movie: Movie SR
METERING SYSTEM
Type: TTL
Multi-segment: YES
Center weighted: YES
Spot: YES
Exposure compensation: +/- 2 EV in 1/3 steps
ISO SENSITIVITY
Auto: 50-800 (3200 in Digital SR, 5MP), auto range selectable
Manual: 50, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600 (3200 in Digital SR, 5MP)
WHITE BALANCE
Auto preset modes: Auto, Daylight, Shade, Tungsten, Fluorescent
Manual mode(s): YES
SHUTTER
Type: Programmed AE electronic lens shutter w/ CCD electronic shutter
Shutter speed: 1/2000 to 4 sec
CAPTURE MODES
Mode selection: Auto Picture (Normal, Night Scene, Landscape, Portrait), Program, Shutter Priority, Manual, Natural Skin Tone, Half-length Portrait (3MP), Night Scene, Movie, Voice Recording, Landscape, Flower, Portrait, Kids, Digital SR (5MP), Surf & Snow, Sport, Pet, Text, Food, Frame Composite (3MP), Dynamic Range Adjustment
Green simplified mode available: YES
Face recognition available: YES, recognize up to 15 faces in all capture modes
P/A/S/M/B: P, S, M
Date stamp: YES (not available in Green Mode)
Digital filters (capture): n/a
DRIVE MODES
Mode selection: one shot, self timer (10s, 2s), continuous, remote control (3s, 0s), multi-exposure (5MP)
Continuous shooting: approx 1.25 FPS
Self-timer: YES, 10 sec, 2 sec
Remote control: infrared, 3 sec, 0 sec (remote optional)
PLAYBACK MODES
Mode Selection: one shot, index (9 thumbnails), magnification, movie playback, sound playback, histogram, select/delete, calendar
Mode Palate: slideshow, resize, trimming, image/sound copy, image rotation, color filter, digital filter, brightness filter, movie edit, redeye edit, voice memo, protect, DPOF, startup screen, frame composite
Magnification: up to 8x, scrollable
Digital Filter Effects: color filters (13), digital filters (5), brightness filter
Movie edit: save as still image, divide movies, extract movies
FILE FORMATS
Still: JPG (EXIF 2.2), DCF, DPOF, Print Image Matching III
Movie: AVI (DivX with MPG-4), 30 FPS w/ sound, movie anti-shake
Sound: WAV (PCM), monaural

Free 2GB memory cards when you pick up ...

blongo3 — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 17:41:01 EDT

Free 2GB memory cards when you pick up any of these cameras. [Amazon]

Pogue Reviews Waterproof Cams, Sanyo Xacti E1 Floats Above the Competition

Brian Lam — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 19:02:06 EDT

Pogue takes a a few waterproof cams down to the local waterpark for testing and finds Sanyo's 6MP Xacti E1 to be of better image and video quality than the rest. I've always found the Xacti cam's nice, but the low light performance to be lacking. That doesn't matter when you're talking about beach and pool time, however. I believe its image quality is better than the other cams in this roundup, but it's only rated to 5 feet of depth.

He also tests two traditionally shaped 7MP cameras, the Optio W30 ($237) and Olympus's Stylus 770 SW ($270). The Olympus is a fully rugged setup, shock and extreme temperature resistant, good down to 33 feet of water; the Pentax is good for 10 feet at two hours. I've used the previous generation Pentax and loved it for hawaii conditions. But I did lose it on a reef and only then did I learn what Pogue points out: None of these damn things float. [NYTimes]

Pentax Optio A30 Boots Up, Shoots and Focuses Quicker

Charlie White — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 23:11:11 EST

Pentax goosed its Optio A series with the A30, a 10-megapixel point-and-shoot camera with a 3x optical lens and a 2.5-inch LCD. Besides a newfangled gyro system to reduce shakiness, the big update on this one is speed, where it's ready to use in 1.8 seconds and has a quick .02-second shutter delay. If you take lots of shots of kids or sports, you know how important it is to have a quick reset, and its faster focus helps, too.

The A30 keeps that manual mode that we liked in the A20, along with 640x480 movies compressed in our fave codec, the DivX format instead of that antiquated motion JPEG of the Canon point-and-shoots.

Another factor to consider is that our buddy David Pogue of The New York Times gave high marks to the A30's predecessor, the Pentax Optio A20, calling it one of the best cameras for under $300. Pentax wasn't talking price or release date yet, but this one hits the numbers. – Charlie White

Pentax Optio A30 [LetsGoDigital]

Pentax Optio W30 Waterproof Shooter Dives Deeper Than Ever

Charlie White — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 19:15:00 EST

Pentax has been dabbling in waterproof point-and-shoot digital cameras for a while, and now its Optio W30 is even more waterproof than its W20 predecessor. This one can be submerged to 9 feet for two hours (besting the 5 feet and 30 minutes for the W20) and still keep on clicking away.

In the specs department, its megapixelidge stays at 7.1, as does its 2.5-inch viewfinder and 3x optical zoom lens. But it adds SDHC memory card compatibility, and now even its 640x480 movies have a basic shake reduction function.

But it's that waterproof function that's the hook here, and the ability to go 9 feet deep makes a huge difference, letting you take it into most swimming pools without worrying about ruining it if it slips out of your hands. No pricing was announced yet, but it'll be less than $300. – Charlie White

Pentax Optio W30 [LetsGoDigital]

New Pentax T30 and m30 Point and Shoots: 7MP, 3x Zoom, Face Recognition

Brian Lam — Mon, 22 Jan 2007 19:58:34 EST

Pentax announced its budget-minded e30 point and shoot at CES, and we just knew they were saving the good stuff for the PMA cam-show. Here's some of that sweeter batch, in the form of the M30 and T30, which each have 7MP sensor and 3x zoom. And a bevy of upgrades that justify the extra $50-$150 they'll cost you over the $150 dollar E30.

And face recognition, a trend started by Fuji cams, that finds your subject's mug exposing it properly. They also both have a bogus anti shake mode called high ISO Digital Shake reduction, which just pushes the ISO til the shutter speed is fast enough to compensate for hand jitters.

And the T30 has a touchscreen for drawing and editing modes. Available in March for $350 for the T and $200 for the M. Why do I care? Because Pentax has been ripping up the review circuit for a bit of time now, and all that tech trickles down.–Brian Lam

[Livingroom]

Tokyo Night Photo in High Dynamic Range: Please Build HDR into Cams!

Brian Lam — Thu, 18 Jan 2007 18:27:35 EST

You might have already seen this HDR, or High Dynamic Range, photo of the Tokyo skyline at night from Boing Boing or JeanSnow's blog. I haven't been able to stop thinking about it, so here's a post. It was taken by an unspecified Pentax DSLR, according to flickr's metadata. Of course, the magic to HDR is done post shot, in photoshop, where a filter can comb through three photos of the same scene bracketed -/+2 stops to capture the best possible fidelity in different brightness ranges for hyper cool looking photos like this.

What I'd like to know is, cameras can autobracket exposure as it is. Why can't we build this into cameras as a feature? And then, my eyes. –Brian Lam

Tokyo HDR Shots on Flickr [via Boingboing, Jean Snow, Gridskipper]
[]

Low-Cost Pentax E30 to Roll Out at CES

Charlie White — Thu, 04 Jan 2007 10:25:05 EST

Pentax announced the Optio E30, its latest entry into the low-cost point-and-shoot category. The camera has a fairly standard feature list, with a 3x optical zoom, 2.4-inch LCD viewscreen and a 7.1 megapixel CCD. What's not standard about it is its price, quoted at $149.95 and available in February.

Who would've thought, even a few months ago, that a 7.1-megapixel digital camera would soon be available for less than $150? The E30 even has 11MB of internal memory if you've run out of space on your SD card. The company will be showing this latest model at CES next week. – Charlie White

Pentax Optio E30 [Digital Photography Blog]

Pentax DSLR Acclaim: Both the K100D and K10D Receive Great Scores

Brian Lam — Mon, 11 Dec 2006 19:04:00 EST

Looks like Canon and Nikon have another worthy competitor in the DSLR range.

First, Mark McClusky and Sean Captain give the K100D the Editor's Choice in Wired's Test issue. He chooses the budget-ish DSLR over the top of the line Canon 30D and Nikon D200 because of built in image stabilization and low noise at high light sensitivity modes ISOs (1600 is its max.)

Then Pop Photo gives the higher end K10D a similar thumbs up for the same low noise characteristics. The camera also gets...

high marks for its fog, snow, and dust resistant shell. Pop Photo has a small but annotated gallery that shows off the camera's ability to shoot low light. –Brian Lam

Pentax k100d [Wired Test]
k10D [Pentax]

Correction: Pentax Solid Gold SLR is Actually From 1981

Charlie White — Fri, 24 Nov 2006 10:31:36 EST

We picked up on a story the other day about Pentax's gold-plated camera that was allegedly waterproof and dustproof, and we said it was released to celebrate the company's 60th anniversary. Not true. Our friends at Complex.com tell us they talked to Pentax reps and found out the truth: it turns out the camera was actually released in 1981 to commemorate the company's 10 millionth LX SLR camera sale. Here's the straight scoop:

They created a limited edition "LX Gold" edition which was 18 carat gold plated and wrapped in brown leather lizard skin. It came in a wooden box with red lining and silk gloves for handling. Only 300 pieces were made with 200 going to Japan and 100 for the international market. But not all were sold as some were given away for photo contests and other PR stunts making it a super rare find.

Thanks, guys, for setting us straight! – Charlie White

All That Glitters Is Not Gold [Complex.com]

Pentax Celebrates 60th Anniversary with Dunkable Gold SLR Throwback

Charlie White — Tue, 21 Nov 2006 10:10:20 EST

Not that you'd want to drop this sucker in the water or anything, but Pentax calls its LX Gold camera the world's first waterproof and dust-resistant SLR. That's right, Gizmodians, this is not a digital camera, it's a nod toward those olden days when our forefathers used something that was known as "film." But Pentax did this relic up right, with shiny gold and alligator trim, celebrating the company's 60th anniversary.

Just to show that the company actually has its shit together, Pentax also trotted out its K10D, a 10.2-megapixel premium DSLR camera with a pretty cool "shake reduction system." Jump for pics of that and a few more beauty shots of this waterproof golden fossil of a camera. – Charlie White

Pentax's world's first water-proof & dust-resistant SLR camera [Aving, via Born Rich]

The Worst Digital Cameras

Travis Hudson — Wed, 25 Oct 2006 11:37:00 EDT

Any Tom, Dick and Jane can write up a list of some of the best digital cameras out there, but it takes a real cynical critic to roundup the worst digital cameras. Kodak, Canon, Polaroid and Pentax all make up the list. Jump to find out which cameras you should avoid come holiday gift time.

• Canon A70
This camera may look nice, be fairly cheap and even received pretty solid reviews from CNET and the like, but there are hidden factors lurking making this one lame camera. Users at Digital Camera HQ began experiencing a lot of hardware flaws throughout the life of this camera including purple lines across the LCD, blurred photos, unusual colors and an E18 Error.

• Seal Life SC500
Time Magazime said this camera was one of the best inventions from 2005. Essentially it is just a digital camera in some plastic water-protecting housing. Users complained on the flash working only 20 percent of the time and the camera frequently locking up.

• Kodak EasyShare One
The EasyShare One burst onto the scene looking hot and ended up flopping. It was a four megapixel camera with some nice features like Wi-Fi, but a clunky interface and plaguing hardware problems has made the EasyShare One one of Kodak's bigger point-and-shoot flops.

• Polaroid PDC-5080
A manly 5.1 megapixels for $90. Sound too good to be true? Well, it is. It is just a bad camera overall. Not much else to say, it sucks. Stick with the old school Polaroids—they are more dependable, as long as you can shake it.

• Pentax Optio E10
Ease and affordability were the selling points of this camera. A promising 6.1 megapixels gave this camera high hopes. Digital Camera HQ reviews seemed to saw the 6.1 megapixels looked more like 2 megapixels. One user says that Optio is really an acronym for "Oh, please turn it off!"

Follow the linkage below to get some more takes on horrible digital cameras. – Travis Hudson

The Worst Digital Cameras Ever [Digital Camera HQ]

Point-and-Shoot Image Stabilization Test (Winners: Pentax Optio A10 and Sony DSC-T30)

Jason Chen — Mon, 23 Oct 2006 19:46:03 EDT

Putting five point-and-shoot cameras through various tests, Digital Camera Info tried to determine which one presented the best image stabilization for your money. The result was surprising.

Although the Nikon Coolpix P3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX50 have good image stabilization and performed notably better with the feature on, the Sony DSC-T30 and the Pentax Opti A10 produced better images. Why? Because they're better cameras, and image stabilization is just one part to getting good picture.

One thing of note is that the Pentax Optio A10 moves the CCD around instead of the lens to provide image stabilization—uncommon thanks to the lens' lighter weight. But the results say the A10 performs just as well as the others. – Jason Chen

DCI Comparison Feature: Point-and-Shoot Image Stabilization Tested [Digital Camera Info]

Pentax Shows X-Change Hybrid Digital SLR Concept at Photokina 2006

Charlie White — Mon, 02 Oct 2006 13:54:03 EDT

Pentax refined one of its earlier concepts at Photokina 2006 with its X-Change camera, a project started way back in 2002. The idea combines the best of both the digital SLR and compact camera worlds, with interchangeable lenses packing integrated CCD image sensors inside.

As soon as this technology can be perfected, you might not need a huge camera bag any more if you want to take along a highly-capable digital SLR with interchangeable lenses. Cramming CCDs into such a small space can't be cheap, nor can it be noise-free. Maybe that's why this concept is taking so long to bring to market. What do you think, commenters? Is it vaporware? – Charlie White

Pentax X-Change concept in the works [LetsGoDigital]

Pentax 10.2 Megapixel K10D Digital SLR With Built-in Image Stabilization

Brian Lam — Wed, 13 Sep 2006 22:53:53 EDT

Pentax just announced a few cameras, but we'll start with the big boy.

The K10D, has a generous 10.2 Megapixel sensor, 2.5-inch LCD, and vibrating CCD dust removal system. If that sounds like a familiar set of stats to you, well, you're being reminded of Canon's brilliant, affordable, Digital Rebel XTi that comes out later this month. The K10D has a few other things that put it ahead of the Canon, though. Most notably, its image stabilization system that shifts the CCD in X, Y, and rotational directions, neutralizing your voyeuristic jitters, even without dedicated lenses. And...

It also has 72-seals that guard against dust/moisture, and an 11-point autofocus system, to Canon's 9. Neither has the stury magnesium body typical of pro DSLRs. Both have ISO light sensitivity ratings of 1600.

The Pentax has a price advantage of $100 (Body costs $799, vs Canon's $899.) Out in Mid October. Which is better? I don't know, yet. But one thing is clear: Both should be good enough for me to take porno shots of shiny gadgets for you guys. Pervs.–Brian Lam

Pentax K10D DSLR Page [Via Let's Go Digital, DC Resource Page, and DP Reviews]

Pentax Optio W20: Underwater, But Not Too Deep

Charlie White — Tue, 08 Aug 2006 09:58:54 EDT

Scuba divers look elsewhere, but this Pentax Optio 20 can get you some great-looking underwater bathing suit shots if the water is clear enough. You can take it to a depth of five feet for up to 30 minutes; no word on what happens at 31 minutes. Just don't drop it in deep water, because it doesn't float.

The W20's spec list looks fairly conventional, although its pixel count has been raised to 7 megapixels from its Optio W10 predecessor's 6 megapixels, but it still has that 2.5-inch viewfinder and face recognition autofocus. Look for it to ship in September for around $300. – Charlie White

Pentax Optio W20 [ Digital Photography Blog]

Pentax Optio S7 Debuts

Charlie White — Tue, 25 Jul 2006 08:49:49 EDT

Pentax updates its S series with the Optio S7, raising the megapixel count to 7.0 and bringing along a 3x optical zoom and 2.5-inch LCD viewscreen. Pentax follows suit with a number of other camera makers, trying to help users sharpen up their images by giving them faster response, raising the ISO to 1600. This gives users the equivalent of loading up a roll of fast film back in the old analog film days.

There are some other notable features inside, such as DivX movie shooting with an anti-shake feature that slightly zooms in the picture so it can be stabilized, and also auto tracking autofocus, which should come in handy when practicing that time-honored art form: fidgety kid photography. Look for the Pentax Optio S7 in September for $299. – Charlie White

Pentax Optio S7 [Digital Photography Blog]

Pentax K100D and K110D Digital SLRs

Charlie White — Tue, 23 May 2006 08:57:52 EDT

Pentax rolled out its K100D series of digital SLRs, aimed at the entry-level user who wants to have interchangeable lenses and that sweet through-the-lens shooting. Both the K100D and the K110D are 6.1-megapixel cameras, where the K100D ($699) has image stabilization and the K110D lacks that feature but costs $100 less.

Even though these are entry-level DSLRs, they have sophisticated features such as an 11-point focusing system and the ability to fire off 2.8 frames per second in rapidfire mode. Best of all for long-time Pentax users, the company says the cameras are compatible with every lens Pentax has ever made, but don't expect the auto features to work with that old dusty glass from the 60s. First out of the gate will be the K100D in July, followed by the K110D in August.

Product Page [Pentax]

Pentax Announces Sporty Optio W10

Charlie White — Fri, 17 Feb 2006 12:39:33 EST

Pentax just took the wraps off the 6-megapixel Optio W10, its newest waterproof compact digital camera. Keeping up with the joneses in its class, there's a 3x zoom and a 2.5-inch LCD viewfinder, along with Face Recognition automatic focus and exposure, which the company claims can detect faces within the frame and then optimize its settings specifically for them. Another notable feature is its 640x480 30fps movie capture capability with an anti-shake function that can be switched on or off.

Pentax says the camera is waterproof, and although it can't be used for diving, the W10 can be immersed in 4.5 feet of water for a half an hour without incident. Besides being dustproof, it starts up and is ready to shoot in just over a half a second. Sounds like it would be great for outdoor sports. No pricing or availability were announced.

PENTAX Optio W10 [DP Preview]

Pre-order Pentax Optio W10 [Amazon]

Pentax His and Hers Digital Cameras

tgrumet — Mon, 06 Feb 2006 16:50:38 EST

You say you want romance? Valentine's Day would be nothing without Pentax's his and hers versions of its OptioWpi waterproof digital camera in red and blue. The camera is the same in all other features: 6.0 megapixel sensor, 2.0-inch LCD monitor, 3x optical lens and 9-point Autofocus. Just in cooler colors. For love. The waterproof part means that you can also submerge it in up to 5 feet of water. So you can't take it scuba diving, but the bathtub is fair game. Hubba hubba. Can you say "undersea crotch shots?" Goes for $350 and you'll have to order by tomorrow (Feb 7) if you want to hand that baby over on the 14th.

Pentax releases limited edition waterproof cam for Valentine s Day
[Mobilemag]

Specs and pricing for original Pentax Optio WPi [Amazon]

GPS Bundle with Pentax

tgrumet — Thu, 02 Feb 2006 14:58:01 EST

Really into photomapping but just don't have all the right tools? Today's your lucky day. Looks like GeoSpatial Experts now has a bundle for you including everything you'll need for that next photomap, inclduding a Pentax digital camera, Garmin handheld GPS receiver and GeoSpatial Experts GPS-Photo Link software. The camera is a Pentax Optio Wpi, which is waterproof, is 6 megapixels and has a 3x zoom. The GPS receiver is a Garmin GPS60 Series and is dust and waterproof. It's fun for the whole family.

Pentax GPS Digital Camera Bundle
[Mobilewhack]

Pentax *ist DL Gets Price Cut

tgrumet — Wed, 01 Feb 2006 15:24:40 EST

In the wake of Pentax's new *ist DL2 6.1 megapixel DSLR camera, it looks the company is giving us a nice break on its fabulous *ist DL digital SLR kit. At $599.95, down from $799.95, the 6 megapixel camera is one of the lowest price of its kind, competing with Nikon s D50, Konica Minolta s Maxxum 5D and Canon s initial EOS Digital Rebel. It will come with a 8-55 DA lens as well as a $100 rebate on select SLR lenses through the end of March. Not bad Pentax, thanks for the help.

Pentax Lowers d-SLR Price [TWICE]