Originally posted by Watson I love Pentax cameras. They are so well built and just "feel" right to me. Despite this I switched from my K511s to a Nikon D800. The only reason I did this was because I never felt comfortable with any crop sensor camera. I used 35mm film cameras for decades before digital came out and I only use prime lenses, so my brain is now hardwired to the focal lengths of full frame lenses. Full frame may or may not be actually any better in terms of IQ but I don't care, full frame just feels right to me. The D800 was great except it never really felt as good as my Pentax. The "fun" factor was gone even though it was full frame. I finally figured out why I felt this way a few weeks ago. The damn thing is too big and heavy. Attach even a prime lens like the Sigma 50mm 1.4 (Art) to it with the battery grip attached (which I added just make the grip feel right) and this camera is a heavy monster. Hauling it around is a chore. Recently, at a camera store I tried the Sony A7R with the native Zeiss 55 mm 1.8 lens. I was instantly in love with this camera. It has faults but these are of no consequence to me compared to the pleasure of having a light, small, high resolution camera again. I bought it and no I don't plan on buying any adapters to use any of my huge Nikon lenses because to me this would defeat the purpose of going small again. On the other hand I might do so with some Pentax lenses. I don't think I have any that are full frame but if anyone has any suggestions on buying older pentax lenses that are small and full frame I am open to suggestions.
Well done on making the switch!!. The a7r is a joy to use and the sensor unbelievable.
The Pentax legacy lenses look and feel great on the camera and you will almost feel nostalgic using them.
I have submitted lens reviews on this forum regarding their comparability with the a7r.
In summary:
The k28 f3.5 is absolutely stunning with this camera and my favourite lens.
The k35 f3.5 is equally good and matches the Sony Zeiss fe35 f2.8 in terms of spatial resolution but renders the colours with much greater vibrance and depth.
The k50 f1.2 is plagued with flare and I have to use a telephoto lens hood in certain conditions to minimise the flare and with resultant compromise of the edges.
The m50 f1.7 is a super lens. No issues with flare or CA and so sharp. Ridiculously cheap!!
The m100 f4 macro is superb both as a telephoto\portrait lens and macro lens. Razor sharp. No aberrations.
The m135 f3.5 also produces very pleasing images and is very compact with built in lens hood. No CA issues.
The m300 f4 is a beast of a lens for this camera. The camera feels too small for the lens. I have had to rig up a homemade tripod collar for it. Having said that, the Iq is great.
Avoid the m24-35 as it is plagued with CA and purple fringing.
If you are into wildlife\bird photography, I would recommend the tamron SP 500 f8 mirror lens. Razor sharp images. A very light and compact lens that feels great on the camera.
I have ordered a k55 f1.8 from eBay and will post a review once I have tried it.
So get out there and enjoy the wonderful combination of gorgeous Pentax legacy glass and a superb sensor. I can guarantee a big smile on your face!!