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Forum: Welcomes and Introductions
12-17-2016, 11:37 AM
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Thanks to all for the advice and counsel up to this point. In preparation for my purchase, I've downloaded the operating manual for the K-S2, and studied the written and video tutorial information on how to adjust a DSLR's settings for use with older lenses.
As for the adapter, I've ordered a Pentax Mount Adapter B from Amazon, which according to multiple reviews appears to be the genuine Pentax version. Until I discover otherwise, I assume there will be no issues with the adapter fitting the camera or the lenses.
For a DSLR neophyte like myself, the information tends to introduce uncertainties because some steps begin with a clause that restricts the applicability of what follows to certain types of lenses. One of the key factors appears to be whether the older lens has an "A" position on the aperture ring. All of my lenses do, and I've been trying to ignore any information that applies to lenses that don't.
My initial objective is to begin using the camera in the most automatic way possible before exploring the extensive list of additional features offered in a DSLR in comparison with my Spotmatic. Without trying to confirm my understanding of each setting adjustment prior to trying it on the camera, I'd appreciate validation/correction of the following:
- Since all my lenses are screwmount, I can install the adapter and leave it there.
- Once I adjust the settings, I can use them as is, except when switching from one lens to another, when I need to set the EV for the focal length of the lens being used, which also has an impact on the effectiveness of stabilization(?).
- The most automatic mode I can use is referred to in some information as "semi-auto," in that I need to set the lens to "A," use the Aperture Priority mode, manually set the aperture, and press the green button to set the shutter speed for a properly exposed photo as determined by the camera.
- The shutter release button will stop down the aperture for the shot and return it to wide open for the next one.
- All my focusing needs to be done manually, and one of the advantages of "old glass" is that the throw of the focus ring is much greater than on new lenses designed for DSLRs, which allows more precise manual control.
- Do I have the capability to view depth of field by manually switching the aperture to "M" and then returning to "A" for the shot?
Thanks again in advance for the willingness to share your knowledge.
Tosh
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Forum: Welcomes and Introductions
12-16-2016, 09:06 AM
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Thanks, Allen:
For the K-S2, as an example, Amazon Prime quoted $526.95 with free shipping, but tax ran the total up to $570. B&H sells the camera for $499, free shipping, and no tax outside NY state. Methinks using the forum links is a no-brainer . . .
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Forum: Welcomes and Introductions
12-16-2016, 08:13 AM
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Copy that, Mike, and now the mind-tussle begins!
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Forum: Welcomes and Introductions
12-16-2016, 07:18 AM
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Thanks for the detailed perspective, Mike.
After considering the all-important question of used versus new, I'm leaning toward the latter based upon a lifelong preference for taking a purchase out of the box for the first time, treating it well during use, and keeping it forever. My Super-Taks haven't been used all that much over the years, but they're absolutely pristine. I've read reviews about these lenses on this forum and been impressed with how knowledgeable photographers appreciate the differences between them and their newer counterparts. To resurrect them from storage in a camera bag and give them new life as I learn about digital photography will be my Christmas present to me.
I understand the logic of your advice and counsel about purchasing a used body. When comparing that to the uncertainties about the longevity of a new body that has no track record with regard to reliability, both options present down line risks, and it boils down to a matter of which set of potential problems causes me the least concern.
All of that said, the basic issue of having to use an adapter and the details of how that alters the steps required to take photographs inserts a more significant challenge, Without understanding that anywhere near to the degree I'll need to, the only way I'm going to find out is by learning for myself (and hopefully with the guidance available on this forum) what limitations are introduced by the marriage of the old and the new.
In comparing the K-S2 with the K-70 and trying to make sense of the differences in the long list of specifications, I'm leaning toward the latest model out of a basic faith, which I admit may be unwarranted, that the name Pentax stands for something other than building cameras that fail prematurely. At this point, I can only trust the brand and hope I'm right.
Tosh
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Forum: Welcomes and Introductions
12-15-2016, 04:08 PM
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More great advice, thank you. Without intending to bite the hand that offered it, I'd be interested in your opinion of the following:
An extended family member is a professional photographer, and I queried him about buying a used K-5. He provided what might be a caution worthy of note, which is the potential for problems getting service/repairs done on a discontinued model.
In the days of analog cameras, he had lots of mom-n-pop repair stores available that could work on discontinued models because they were simple machines with no computer guts. In his opinion, most of the repair shops still around are going to ship the camera back to the manufacturer for anything more than routine cleaning or meter check because modern DSLRs are too complex for the majority of locally available expertise. The money saved initially could become expensive if the used camera "gets jukey," which at some point will likely happen. His suggestion is to consider starting off with a model currently being sold and serviced by Pentax.
When comparing a used K-5 with the least expensive current model entry-level choice, which might have as much or more capability than this (old) amateur will ever need, are these considerations worthy of nudging the decision toward buying new?
I hope I'm not being a pest, but I really appreciate the opportunity to learn from the varying perspectives of experts.
Tosh
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Forum: Welcomes and Introductions
12-15-2016, 01:50 PM
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Fantastic suggestions, thanks to all. I've got some reading to do, and I really appreciate the links with all the details.
One thing for sure, Mike, is that I'll be looking for a K-5. My only concern is being unfamiliar with the source and trusting that I'll be getting what I pay for. Any advice in that regard?
Tosh
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Forum: Welcomes and Introductions
12-15-2016, 11:04 AM
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Hello, Pentax Forum:
First-time poster seeks to resurrect a long-dormant love affair with photography begun in 1967 with a Spotmatic and the following Super-Takumar screwmount lenses: 1:3.5/28; 1:3.5/35; 1:1.4/50; 1:3.5/135; 1:4/200.
As I understand it, a Pentax Mount Adaptor B allows these lenses to be used with DSLR bodies. Never having owned a DSLR, I'm relatively clueless about how to choose a model with features that will serve me well as a beginner, and yet not restrict me too much as I become more proficient.
Any suggestions would be very much appreciated, and thank you in advance for helping me out.
Tango Mike (Tosh)
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