Originally posted by biz-engineer it is completely ridiculous to launch a new camera format and be stuck at making a 50mm prime. For a system to get maximum adoption, it needs to have a nice selection of lenses so that everyone can combine the system that suit him the best.
It would undoubtedly be better if there was a full range of entirely new lenses for the K-1. No question, it would make a big difference to uptake of Pentax as a FF solution. But, reprising the same points we've discussed time and again:
- Ricoh got the essential fast zooms out to market quickly, more-than-adequately covering requirements for day-to-day shooting with up-to-date, digitally-optimised IQ. OK, the zooms are big and heavy - which goes with the territory for these types of lenses, regardless of brand - but they are an expected baseline of required lenses for professional and serious amateur use, and in any case, who buys a modern full-frame DSLR for maximum portability? Sony has mirrorless cameras for that (and yes, I know and acknowledge all of the points against EVF for some shooters)
- There is already a nice selection of excellent lenses available, allowing anyone to put together a highly capable FF system. Yes, some of those lenses are from the late film era, and aren't optimised for digital work, but they still produce very high quality images. I understand why some people only want newly-designed lenses, and I accept that they're necessary (and should be developed quicker than is currently happening); but there are high quality lenses available to suit most focal length requirements. There is nothing stopping people from taking outstanding, professional images with the glass already available
So, I don't think it was ridiculous to launch the K-1 with a limited range of new glass. I do think it would be better for Ricoh / Pentax to step on the gas pedal regarding new lens development, both for existing users who've committed to the system and to increase uptake - but I'm sure they're perfectly aware of that, and have good reasons for the time taken.