Originally posted by jess I am an archaeologist and take a lot of artifact photography, and while the product I get with my camera and lenses are amazing for this purpose (although I am sure I could get better), I find that focusing (manually) is a challenge without a split screen, resulting in a lot of DNG photos with minor focus adjustments that I have to wade through in lightroom.
Probably the best split screen it a KatzEye, and they are available online here:
Pentax DSLRs - Katz Eye Optics
The focus screen in your camera is changeable. You simply replace the current one with one of these screens and you will be off and running. I am thinking about doing it to my second body, and have actually done it to my PZ-1. I've also changed the matte screen in my K10D and it really is a snap.
If you are uncomfotable doing this, I am sure LeZot Camera down at 34 Church would do it for you for a very inexpensive price. One of the techs there that I've talked with has and loves a K10D.
Jess, just a comment on you profession and location. I have a degree in anthropology from the University of Vermont in Burlington. Are you associated with that fine University? I married a girl from South Burlington and I summer in Colchester. I will actually be up there for Christmas. (I'll even offer to help install the new split screen if you'll show me 'round the lab.)
Anyway... you do what I went to undergraduate school to do, and you live in the place I would probably choose to live if I had that choice now. Nice. Good on ya!
Seaain