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Now that Photokina has officially started, things at the event have changed quite a bit! Today near the Pentax booth, we saw dozens of Pentax executives representing nearly all of the company's global divisions. Among the people who we met was Mr. Jim Malcolm, the new Executive Vice President of Pentax in the US. He seemed to be a very pleasant individual who was truly enthusiastic about the future of Pentax Ricoh, and we are therefore looking forward to seeing him in action and working with Pentax under his leadership! After having talked to him, we now believe more than ever that Ricoh will get Pentax to make a very strong comeback in the photo industry, delivering exciting products to enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Malcolm assured us that Ricoh would continue actively developing products for all three Pentax camera systems (the K, 645, and Q mounts) in the future, just as we had been told in the past.
We also had a chance to talk to Mr. Hiraku Kawauchi of Pentax in Japan, whom we interviewed at CP+ earlier this year. He will be joined by Mr. Andre Dierickx as well as other Pentax representatives in an exclusive PentaxForums.com interview to be conducted at Photokina tomorrow! We will be asking the interview questions together with Mika Cruz, owner of the Spanish Pentax store "Pentaxeros," and co-author of the official letter to Pentax about making a full-frame camera.
The interview will consist of a total of twenty questions, some of which are very technical in nature, while others relate to more general concepts. We will be posting the full interview transcript and video as soon as possible- likely tomorrow in the afternoon (US time).
When we interviewed Mr. Kawauchi earlier this year, we learned the following:
"Pentax DSLRs will continue being a key part of the Pentax lineup, despite the fact that no new DSLRs have been announced so far this year. We expect to see two new DSLRs later this year: an intro-level replacement for the K-r, and a replacement for the K-5 (likely to be on display at Photokina)"
At the time of the interview, Pentax had not announced any new DSLRs for almost a year and a half, which was getting a lot of Pentaxians worried. However, just a few months later, what our interviewee told us turned out to be true. Kawauchi also told us that the prospect of a Pentax full-frame camera was not a mere myth, and we are sure that this will also prove to be true at some point in the very near future. We'll be sure to ask for updates on the topic tomorrow!
Almost one whole year has passed since Ricoh formally acquired the Pentax imaging division from Hoya. While it's obvious that even despite Ricoh's good intentions, it is impossible to develop a new camera from scratch, let alone a whole lens lineup, in this short amount of time, the merger with Ricoh has already stared showing some very positive signs. The great Pentax brand visibility here in Cologne and the appeal of the Pentax booth at Photokina are but two of them!
If you have anything you would like us to convey to Pentax during the interview, please meet us at the Pentax booth at noon tomorrow. We will do our best to speak to Pentax on your behalf!
After all this anticipation, I suspect the interview will turn out to be ... CP+ II! Essentially the same interview as the recorded 2012 video CP+ interview, but with slightly improved focus. Even though there will be no anti-aliasing filter to eliminate receiving similar answers from Mr. Kawauchi, the future roadmap will not be much sharper.
How long does it take to type, "I have no idea", I don't think there are currently any plans" and "I can't comment on that" 20 times?
What?!!! That's it? After all the hype nothing? Give us the interview already! This piece is a whole little bit of nothing.
NaCl(about as empty of substance as the Romney convention speech)H2O
Let's get going with the interview...
If you goto pentaxeros, Mika said they are still editing the interview.
No, we are all waiting for it :)
I'm confused. Has the interview been posted yet?
GXRUser has some valid points if Ricoh made modular mounts for Kf and Q lenses if would create a truly inter changable system.Would still like to see a K3 with then new 24MP sensor but beeter AF is more important first.
"Humm... tomorrow is now today... still waiting to hear what Pentax has to say about the future... I hope it's better than: good things are coming !"
Tsk..tsk...a missed deadline? Is the Pentax Forum falling victim to the Pentax way of doing things?
I think the Pentax Forum people will be saying "at least the beer provide by Pentax PR was better".
Humm... tomorrow is now today... still waiting to hear what Pentax has to say about the future... I hope it's better than: good things are coming !
I would like to see Pentax releasing white papers. Canon & Nikon do this to explain the new advances and features in their cameras. I can't find any recent Pentax white-papers. It makes the company appear to be lacking both innovation and communication with the public.
If there's something fancy in the lens coating, shake reduction or in the focus tracking, then explain it fully to users. Good white papers help marketing!
Also, I like to see more company presence and responsiveness in English language forums. A Japanese company that talks and interacts with the West more.
Q with an EVF
KAF module for GXR ( APS )
GXR body with built in EVF (similar to Nex 7 or Nikon V1)
Pentax K-01 update with built-in EVF
GXR Module for Q lenses
Even with the introduction of minor enhancements to the K5 in the shape of the K5II and K5IIs, I am not yet tempted ....I have been hoping & holding off for a DSLR from the Pentax stable that has the spec of the much hyped K3, will it exist and when? this will be a camera that will firmly put Pentax up against the Nikon and Canon. I won't one!
I have questions specific to the Ricoh GXR product line. I'm an owner of the GXR, EVF, and Leica M Mount A12 module. It is a great, professional feeling, APS-C camera. This camera system deserves new plug in modules and updates, it does not deserve to fade away. What are Ricoh-Pentax plans for this camera? There have been very few new product announcements relating to this camera since the last camera unit (zoom module) was released, and no "news" on the global marketing site since March 2012.
In particular the apparent success of the Mount A12 module among Leica M lens users suggests there should be every reason for Ricoh-Pentax to develop a full frame Mount unit. Ricoh remains the only company other than Leica to produce a camera specifically designed for M mount lens users. A full frame version for the GXR, plus body and performance updates, would find huge demand from users given that the nearest competition in price is Leica themselves with their newly announced "M" at MSRP $7,000.
There is a market - will Ricoh take the challenge and go for it?
Specifically, what are the plans for Ricoh GXR in the near term. Will the company be more proactive in developing and publishing a Road Map so that buyers can have confidence the line has longevity?
The K-01 is crippled without an articulated LCD and at least provision for add on EVF (if not one built in). A sensor like Canon's with phase detection added would be welcome.
Dslr's also need an articulated LCD, follow Sony's example.
Can you please be specific about the future of Ricoh cameras? will they continue to develop new models? thank you
It would be cheeky to call the K5II and K5IIs 2 different SLRs
3 questions:
1 - Tethering on K5 or any other way to immediately check quality of image via computer/lap top screen;
2 - Mirror lock up while in AEB, and, go for the gusto - up to 5 frames - not only 3 like on a Canon;
3 - Put in menu the set up for Av or Tv priority for AEB up to 5 frames because, right now, it is somewhat of a "secret" on how to set it up...
french_mike there is the K30, K5II, K5IIs, just missing one other.
Ask how much longer do we have to wait for the new Teleconverter.
Alecan
Other than making good cameras and lenses, Pentax should have a good
PR and Marketing program in order to have a strong comeback in the photo industry.
I would like clarification that the new "HD" lens coating is in fact better than SMC.
I would also like to know if they are going to offically state what lenses and at what point these lenses recieved the updated SDM. I would have been better PR to officially launch an updated SDM...shame.
A longer warranty on premium glass.
Also an affordable extended warranty card for all other products in the box.
were are the 4 slrs they promised at CP+ ?
Why is Sigma and Tamron stopping to belive on the K mount to ? As at least there is new lenses that could be purchase there.
I'd like to ask him the reason why they are not increasing marketing efforts to make the cameras and lenses of the brand available in major shops and retailers.
A number of people have made a good point, that Pentax needs to get back into the retail stores in the US. They should start with the stores that already carry Pentax (such as Fry's Electronics and Samy's Camera) but stock almost nothing - not even carrying both the K-5 and K-30, for example! Then they can think about expanding into other camera stores and possibly major department store/discount chains.
At a minimum they should stock the K-mount DSLRs, the Q/Q10 with a few lenses, and key K-mount lenses. Besides the 3 kit lenses, this would include at least the two standard DA* zooms, the two inexpensive DA primes, and the DA18-135. They should probably add the DA15 and DFA100WR as well.
Does have Ricoh GXR any future?
Are there any plans for new modules, or a new body or EVF?
Don't waste time and money for "toys" too much but develop your lines on K5, K30 and WR compacts in order to follow the market and get volumes sold. Next to these "mainstreams" the demand for FF is big enough to be considered still.
As an addendum to my previous comment, I do realize there is a Pentax Facebook account, but appears (very clearly) to be simply a platform for Pentax marketing. I don't recall ever having seen anyone from Pentax respond to anyone's questions or comments through Facebook.
I would have to think pretty hard about how to ask this question in a way that is not accusatory or mean, but basically:
Does the people at PRIC understand that there is an extremely loyal base of users, and that they are committing a major error by choosing not to interact with this base? Do they know that they are literally losing customers because they refuse to make statements about their future products and direction?
We have all read plenty of chatter on this message board in this vein. After 12 years of using Pentax cameras and lenses, I finally (very reluctantly) bought a Canon 60D, which now a few years old, because Pentax still does not have a product that can compete in terms of video capabilities.
Actually, that is another question I would like to hear them answer: do they plan to take steps to expand their video capabilities to compete with other brands? Is there any possibility that they will form the types of relationships with filmmakers and equipment manufacturers other companies have formed?
Yes, you really need to follow up on the SDM issue. Bringing the "old" and defective 16-50 and 50-135 lenses into a courtesy repair program would be the best thing they could do to restore confidence among Pentax faithful.
I agree with most of the users in they needs and claims, but i´m asking myself why the heck the K-5 IIs is not selling in a kit, i want a kit with the 18-135 or even a better lens! It´s very easy to do! Pentax should think more about new users! New users doesn´t have Pentax lenses.
Considering that Ricoh has offices in Argentina and others countries in Latin America, are they considering direct distribution of Pentax products in this part of the world?
I'd like to know who Pentax sees as their biggest competition. Canon & Nikon on the top tier then Pentax, Panasonic, Olympus, Fuji and Sony in the 2nd tier. Does Pentax really think they can compete with the top 2 or do they care about competing at all and just want to blaze there own trails? In a way I see Pentax not really caring what the competitor does. They are trailblazers.. Starting with the K-x and its wacky colors but awesome peformance! And the K-5 with all its features and still remains in the top 10 of the DxOMark charts! Then recent with the Q and the K-01 Styling & K-30 in its all WR body... They are kinda the Apple of Cameras... (Pre-iMac & i-Anything days) Anyhow.. So if you get a chance just ask them who do they think are their competitors?
Thanks... Have fun and I am enjoying the updates!!
UPdated lens line up please.. something that we can afford.
1. Does Pentax USA have any plans to expand its brick and mortar presence? Online is great when I know exactly what I want, but I'd rather hold it in my hand first. And I would sincerely rather spend my money with local merchants.
2. Does Pentax USA have any plans to establish robust professional services with "overnight" type turn-around, loaners, and other perks that would perhaps bring more commercial photographers into the brand?
I think Pentax needs to clean house. They need to be more decisive.They should stop dragging their feet. Companies like Canon and Nikon are leaders for a reason. If Pentax Ricoh doesn't come out with a FF pretty soon, they will lose a lot of die hard Pentaxians like myself. I have been using Pentax since the early 2000's right now have a K5 and have been waiting for a FF for some time. Canon, Nikon and even Sony has come up with a FF. Sorry to be sounding harsh but it's because out of passion.
Please ask about PRIAC's vision and goals regarding market presence in USA - you know, the soft, marketing stuff such as workshops, brand-wide, rational branding with universal cue's across all bodies, what constitutes the Pentax "heritage" and historical culture brought forward (or are they moving in en entirely new direction?). You get where I'm going - what makes Pentax Pentax and how will that DNA be visible in the future?
One question they can undoubtedly answer; like the Leica M, or the Pentax K-1000, can Pentax retain the form of the K5-II in the future too and make it a classic?
Keep the form/grip factor, all despite which new APS-C sensor goes in it, and which image processor couples it. Internals of the camera are irrelevant.
I'd love to see something like a Classic Pentax Camera again, a true landmark weather sealed DSLR for photographers, staying there for many years to come.
A new classic in the age that almost refutes anything that smells like constancy.
Ask:
1. GXR K-mount availability;
2. The limited zoom, DA* lens on the road map progress and availability;
3. Lens pricing ?!
4. .... the FF, when will be available? (and don't take fuzzy answer as answer!)
I'm assuming you are already planning on asking about the 645D system, but could you try and ask about what Pentax thinks about tilt/shift lenses for medium format as well as a partnership with a 3rd party medium format lens maker ? Given the rather lame announcements by Hasselblad and Leica (the pseudo upgrade of the S) Pentax still has a very capable medium format system in their hands with a lot of room for growth. I'm also interested in buying the 90mm 2.8 lens and would like to know when it will actually ship in north america.
A waterproof camera with full manual setting and RAW and a sensor the size of the sony rx100 would be a smash hit for me. Throw on a case (for diving beyond the camera depth rating) and go scuba diving with it! Too bad no company has catered to this market.
Will we see more Pentax products in the camera stores rather than just at a few online retailers? It's nice to actually hold these things in your hands and try them out before buying, but in recent years it has become much harder to find dealers who stock Pentax cameras and lenses in many areas.
Aside from the obvious FF request, how about the next waterproof/shockproof compact shoot RAW? The only thing holding me back from buying one. It would be the first in the market as well.
In light of the GXR A16 Zoom (which was delayed from 2011 due to the floods) being the only Ricoh camera released so far this year, and now the dearth of announcements at Photokina - whither Ricoh cameras?
Probably I am in minority here but I am mainly concerned about K-01 line. Will Pentax continue this line or it will be abandoned? I think it is even now not bad but could be much better. Just improve auto focus, please...
Why only 20 questions? Hopefully Adam, Mika, and Mr. Kawauchi and Mr. Dierickx will have such a good time that they will get all caught up in the moment and we can get more questions in (and more answers :-)!
I just want to add to DOCRWM's comment on a new flash system. We need a faster sync speed and we need to be competitive with Nikon's system. Perhaps even exceeding it. Rather than following the leader Pentax needs to step up and lead and a leading edge flash system will certainly make the products stand out.
I think what we all want to know is when they will stop all this pricing madness, and realize ALL their lenses are overpriced (by a little) at the OLD prices, let alone MAP! For $250, the new DA50 should be WR, and have a DC motor
Make all lenses WR!
Ask if there any plans to make Q line dust/water proof and can Pentax engineer a cheeper FF PS like Sony's RX1.
Ditto to Docwrm. With my weather, I'd really like to see a WR flash system, on or off camera.
Could you ask for confirmation of the engineer's comments regarding SDM? Maybe leave it till the last question in case they get upset.
Some lens questions would be in order, particularly around the wide and long ends. A fast 24, 25 or 28mm lens (or even a slower f/2.8 one) would be very welcome. Plus the Tokina 11-16 or an equivalent is sorely needed. And a 135mm prime (especially at f/1.8 or f/2, but even at f/2.5) is really missing. Also, there's the obvious gap between 300mm and 560mm - perhaps a reasonably compact and lower priced ~450mm would be good, or else something really fast in the 300-600mm range.
And the Q needs a wider prime of 5mm or wider - even a toy version could be fine (perhaps ever preferable). Likewise, it needs a longer prime - not toy in this case.
And I really hope the flash system is being seriously revamped.
*** But most importantly, Pentax Ricoh needs to work actively with major third-party lens makers to make sure they continue to produce K-mount versions - Tokina, Tamron, Sigma, and Cosina in particular. Although 90% of my lenses are actually Pentax-branded, the availability of third-party glass is actually HUGE in how it affects people's perception of Pentax' STRENGTH in the marketplace. I'm sure Pentax will continue to produce great lenses, as they always have. But this should be perhaps Pentax' NUMBER ONE PRIORITY right now, with whatever funding, manpower, and alliances are needed to make it happen. ***
como profesional de la fotografía necesito un nuevo firmware para hacer mas confiable mi herramienta de trabajo (k5) y un sistema de flash WR evolucionado
I agree previous comments re 3rd paty lens makers. Good question for the Sigma people too (where's the k-mount 120-300?).
Another item, tethering software for the DSLRs, K5 etc. and on the MAC platform too, please!
Third party relationships need to be developed as I don't think Pentax can cater to all possible lens requirements. Although new Pentax lenses at a great price point would be a much more worthwhile addition to the lineup. Keep up the great work.
Thanks for the update. Please convey to the Pentax decision makers the great desire for a fast 28mm prime lens. I gave up waiting a few months ago and bought a Sigma. But I'd really like a Pentax DA or DA Limited in the f/1.4-1.8 range. Also, how about some updated flash units? The top of the line should have WR. And, once again, an APS-C K-mount module for the Ricoh GXR. Finally, how about a built-in EVF in an updated GXR body?
Thanks, I look forward to it. Tethering, Flash system, relationship with 3rd party lens makers are all on my radar. The K-Mount will die if no one other than Pentax supports it. I am glad that Tamron and Pentax are cooperating on the 18-270 but that needs to be continued and other Sigma and Tamron lenses that are not currently in K-mount need to be offered.