HD FA 50mm F1.4 vs. SMC 50mm F1.4 Classic Review
Updated 50mm's based on an iconic lens
By bdery in Review Announcements on Apr 14, 2024
We are happy to announce our latest lens review, in which we compare the SMC PENTAX-FA 50mm F1.4 Classic and the HD Pentax-FA 50mm F1.4!
The original SMC FA 50mm F1.4, launched in 1991, has been one of the first lenses photographers would turn to when they wanted to go beyond the kit lens. It is certainly among the most popular autofocus K-mount lenses. In 2023, Pentax decided to update this lens to the newer HD coatings, which led to the HD FA 50mm F1.4. In an interesting twist, the company also launched a "classic" version of the lens, still using SMC coatings but with some hidden surprises.
Today, we look at both lenses, putting them through their paces like we always do. How do the lenses perform? Read on below: the results might surprise you!
Pentax KF Camera Reviewed
One of the most affordable cameras currently on the market
By bdery in Review Announcements on Feb 26, 2024
Today we present our in-depth review of the Pentax KF camera!
Based on the K-70, and similar to it in almost all aspects, the KF was originally launched because the supply chain for parts for the K-70 was becoming difficult to maintain. This means that, even though at its core the KF is the same as the K-70, there are some inevitable differences in both the hardware and software. Moreover, we are now in 2024 and the photography market has evolved since the launch of the K-70. It is thus useful to take a look at the KF with current expectations in mind.
Review of the Biotar 75mm F1.5 II
A legendary lens now available in mirrorless and DSLR mounts
By bdery in Review Announcements on Feb 12, 2024
We are happy to present our review of the Biotar 75mm F1.5 II, the revival of one of the most legendary lens designs of the last century!
Based on Zeiss' iconic Biotar 75mm F1.5 lens first released before World War II, this new version brought forward by Meyer Optik Görlitz improves on the original by tweaking the lens design, improving on the materials and manufacturing, adding mutli-coatings, while preserving what makes the Biotar unique. Namely, its excellent center sharpness and signature bokeh (often referred to as "swirly bokeh"). Sometimes named the "king of vortex", the Biotar formula is still sought after almost a century after its inception. Today, it is available in most modern mirrorless and DSLR mounts, including Pentax, Nikon, Sony, Canon, micro four-thirds, and others.
Read our review to see what we found out about the new Biotar 75mm F1.5 II lens!
Pentax O-ICK1 Sensor Cleaning Kit Review
Special tool to easily remove sensor dust
By bdery in Review Announcements on Sep 18, 2023
Today we present a short review of the Pentax O-ICK1 sensor cleaning kit!
This simple tool is extremely useful to remove stubborn dust and particles from a camera sensor. When using the camera's built-in sensor removal system doesn't work, and using a rocket blower still leaves residual particles, it becomes necessary to get a cleaning tool in contact with the sensor. The O-ICK1 is one such tool.
Read on to find out how well the Pentax O-ICK1 can clean a dirty camera sensor!
Pentax K-3 III Monochrome Review Posted
An in-depth look at Pentax's latest DSLR
By PF Staff in Review Announcements on Jul 17, 2023
The Pentax K-3 III Monochrome debuted just over three months ago, in April 2023. Since then, it has attracted tremendous interest due to its unique position in the camera market, bringing new and returning Pentax users to the forum in the process.
In simple terms, the Monochrome is a specialized version of the Pentax K-3 III optimized for black-and-white photography. Its sensor sacrifices the ability to capture color photos in exchange for improved sharpness, lower noise, and smoother tones. Beyond some differences in menu settings and image profiles, the Monochrome otherwise retains all of the powerful features and performance of the K-3 III.
So, how significant are these advantages, and does the Monochrome live up to the hype? Is it worth switching to Pentax to use this camera? Read our in-depth review to find out!
Sort: Newest | Most Views | Most Comments Showing articles 1 - 5 of 177 | Last Page
