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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
02-24-2015, 05:00 PM
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Yeah, that looks like the Canadian equivalent.
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Forum: Pentax K-3 & K-3 II
02-24-2015, 03:41 PM
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Yes, but you really only need one or a few dark frames, that you could expose yourself leaving the lens cap on. Then use software to subtract it later, which allows you to skip the process while shooting. It can suck waiting equal amounts of time in between long exposures, like when shooting star trails.
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
02-24-2015, 02:57 PM
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I'd vote for a decent pair of well ventilated trail runners.
IME, waterproofing just makes for sweaty wet feet, and disallows good evaporation especially in a place as hot and humid as a rainforest. As for brands, go to an REI or similar outfitter, try stuff on, buy what fits best. Be sure to break them in before the trip.
edit: It's important to have a quick drying sock as well. Regular cotton socks are terrible for this. Something like a synthetic or a merino wool blend hiking sock will work much better.
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
11-25-2014, 03:21 PM
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About the same after you buy your ICU.
Honestly, the Loka looks like a great pack. I guess my only reservations would be, as carpents mentioned, the placement of the water reservoir and the load lifters (though that's simply going to depend on how well the pack fits your frame).
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
11-25-2014, 01:43 PM
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How much gear? Lowepro makes a Photo Sport 200AW or 30AW, which have decent harnesses, the side access you want, are relatively lightweight and are much less expensive than the Loka. I used a 200AW for dayhikes and its performed well (did a review in the sticky thread). Get the 30AW if you need more gear or have a bigger chest.
As Macario mentioned, also check out the Clik Elites. If I bought one of those today I'd probably go with a contrejour 35 or obscura,
Yep. When I go camping I'm usually hiking 20+ miles in over a couple/few days and really have to have a proper backpacking pack. In that case, I'm more concerned about weight with all my other crap, so I'm only taking my K3 + 18-135WR and carrying it on a Peak Design Capture Clip, as someone else mentioned.
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
05-09-2014, 08:18 PM
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Another option to consider is something like the mountainsmith day lumbar pack + strapette shoulder strap accessories + insert (mountainsmith kitcube is a really decent insert). Volume-wise the lumbar pack is pretty equal to the 200AW (~14L), and I can see some benefit to tucking away the hip belt and using it as a messenger bag as well. Makes it a little more urban suited I guess...or just generally useful.
Personally, I'm interested in seeing if I can lash one of these to my multiday camping pack, and then using it for dayhikes/summits while leaving the rest of my gear and camping pack back at the tent. I guess I could do that with any sort of rucksack, but I'd say this probably maintains easier access to gear and keeps my back cool.
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
05-09-2014, 11:23 AM
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As mentioned, a proper framed hiking pack + insert also works well and can be cheaper. You might sacrifice easy access to the camera gear, but that's about it. Lots of hiking packs have bottom access which can make things easier. I appreciate the 200AW for the camera dedicated compartment and fast/side access, and it works well for light duty/casual hiking as the OP described. It does have proper hiking suspension, and more than enough space in the top compartment, lid pocket and front pocket for other day hiking essentials + water bladder.
Probably my only concern for OP's use is if his torso is too large for the pack. I'm 5'10", ~172lbs, and I think my torso is just on the inside edge of the range this pack can fit comfortably.
Best piece of kit I can recommend for hiking, regardless of what pack you get, is a Peak Design Camera Capture Clip. Clip your camera + most used not-too-large lens to your pack strap and you're set. Easy access, and secure. If you intend to use another lens, place it in a case on the hip belt, and you're set for 90% of what you'll encounter while hiking.
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
05-07-2014, 09:49 PM
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I reviewed the 200AW in the camera bags thread here: https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/22-pentax-camera-field-accessories/83212-camera-bag-reviews-post2660509.html
I like it quite a bit. Very versatile and I would expect it would fit your kit well. I'm not sure I like the setup for the 30AW's padded compartment. While larger to nicely fit a pro/gripped DSLR and large lens, it doesn't seem to be meant to store more than that. Maybe it has dividers I just haven't seen in pictures. Meanwhile, I can easily and not-too-snugly fit my K3, 18-135, DA35 and Metz flash in the 200AW's compartment. I can even squeeze a battery grip on the K3 and zip it all up, but it's definitely a tight fit in that case.
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
01-23-2014, 03:34 PM
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Copy/pasting my review from Amazon last year:
Lowepro Photo Sport 200 AW
I bought this pack because, for most dayhikes, I don't need a huge 30L pack like my Dakine Blade ski pack. Instead, I wanted something smaller, lighter yet still versatile.
In the past I've used primarily a Lowerpro Rover AW II and Dakine Blade ski pack + MountainSmith insert. They're both good packs. The Rover is similar in concept to the Photo Sport, but it's old, huge, lacks any rigidity, rather uncomfortable and bottom access sucks. The Dakine is great and scads more versatile being a regular pack. It's still my go to pack for longer weekends when I need more gear. Wish it had a rigid frame/structure though, and I'm not as big a fan of using inserts since mixed gear may shift in movement, even when tightened in with compression straps.
Positives:
* The Photo Sport 200 AW is smaller, lighter, generally more comfortable and "smarter". When I'm hiking, I'm not hauling all my gear. A small prime, zoom, tripod, flash (sometimes).
* I love the rigid back to the pack, which helps to properly support whatever weight you've loaded up.
* The dedicated side access pocket is convenient and big enough for my gear (Pentax K7, 35mm prime, 18-135 WR, Metz 50 AF-1 Flash).
* The hydration pocket can double as a tablet pocket for travel.
* There's enough space between the main compartment and rear external pocket for a jacket, snacks, wallet, keys, phone, tools, and other malarky like sunscreen. There are also a number of attachment points for...whatever you might need to attach.
* The all-weather rain hood works well. I've used it multiple times now in utter downpours. My gear stayed dry.
* Relatively "generic backpack" appearance, which doesn't scream "camera gear inside!"
* This pack is definitely well built. For the hell of it, I WAY overloaded it for a camping weekend. It managed to do surprisingly well. Between the pockets, compartments and attachments, I loaded it up with hydration, clothes, food, tent, pad, sleeping bag, towel, tools, etc, etc... See linked picture at the bottom. Now, I wouldn't do this normally. I imagine the stress and weight would eventually spell the demise of the pack, especially at the attachment/stress points. Instead I'd probably strap it to an external frame, or choose a larger pack for the purpose. Regardless, I was happily surprised.
Negatives:
* The shoulder straps could have been a smidge wider or more padded
* Same with the waist straps and pads
Conclusion:
It's still not the "perfect" pack for everything. No such thing exists. It's a great daypack and I have no regrets.
http://i.imgur.com/cH0gkui.jpg
update:
Got the k-3 with free grip and lens from B&H. I have been able to stow the K-3 + battery grip, and the lens. It's a bit of a tight squeeze, but it works and all is secure.
So inside the padded camera compartment:
- K-3 + grip + 18-135WR
- DA 35mm 2.4
- DA 50mm 1.8
- Metz 50 AF-1 Flash
Then I have the DA 55-300 WR HD in it's padded case inside the main compartment.
When I use the Capture Clip with the grip on the k-3, I need to also use Peak Design's PROpad and move the sternum strap to just higher than the clip to aid with stabilization.
Besides, when doing any serious hiking, I'd probably leave the grip, flash and primes at home.
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
01-21-2014, 02:38 PM
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This would be my recommendation as well, because of the additional usefulness of the clip. But, yeah, if you don't care the clip at all, then $60 - $80 (pro version) may be a bit steep.
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Forum: Pentax Price Watch
01-16-2014, 02:52 PM
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I remember in the last thread, someone mentioned that they'll honor this if you bought within some time frame. Anyone have those details?
edit: here it is:
 Quote:
edit:
Just called and they're shipping out a battery grip. I guess we'll truly see when the order page updates and I get a tracking number, but the phone call certainly ended on a positive note.
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
06-16-2012, 05:08 PM
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I use the Camera Capture Clip for hiking and skiing (usually mounted to my pack strap, but sometimes a sturdy belt).
My longest/largest lens is the 50-200WR, so maybe my experience isn't useful for those with massive lenses. Regardless, I've found it to be rock solid and basically indespensable for my outdoors/active shooting.
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
01-16-2012, 10:44 AM
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Looks nice but not, imo, $100+ nicer than the BBP. $175! Yikes.
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
01-13-2012, 01:55 PM
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Rocket blower - $8
Flash diffuser - $10
Remote - $14
Most used:
MountainSmith kit cube insert - $25...turn just about any bag into a photo bag.
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
11-18-2011, 12:06 PM
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Now that you've had a Summer and Fall to test out the pack, any additional thoughts? My understanding was that the water reservoir area was supposed to be water tight, so there shouldn't be leakage worries? I currently carry a K7 (no grip), 18-55, 50-200 and 35 2.4 + Metz 50 flash. Think it could all fit somehow? I'm guessing it's probably too tight. It's certainly not all needed for hiking and day trips, but it would be nice for extended vacations.
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
08-24-2011, 06:23 PM
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Got my backer units a week or so ago, and had the chance to use them over a long weekend with my k7 in Wyoming. Worked great, had one on my belt, and another on my pack. Great for hiking and dealing with obstacles, while remaining close for fast access. I don't have a grip though, so dunno if that would make a difference in my impression.
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
07-07-2011, 08:52 AM
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According to the blog I linked (also linked in the projects update)
You can see pictures of it on their facebook page as well.
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
07-07-2011, 08:43 AM
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I also modified my backing for two, based on the reviews from the people receiving early units.
Pretty incredible how well it took off. They're currently in 4th place for all-time backing, according to the most recent project update, at $291K with ~4,400 backers.
blog/review of the unit from an early bird backer
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Forum: Digital Processing, Software, and Printing
06-10-2011, 11:05 AM
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Why resort to piracy when recent history has shown the software at a somewhat affordable price when on sale?
If it's not worth the $$$, then find something cheaper or stick with free open source software.
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Forum: Digital Processing, Software, and Printing
06-02-2011, 09:26 AM
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Yeah, imaging algorithms are really complicated. If the research shows usable real world application and efficacy, it's not entirely unlikely that it'll make its way out of the lab. The issue often becomes one of patenting and licensing. Now, MIT did certainly create their OSS oriented MIT License, but who knows if such a project would employ it.
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Forum: Digital Processing, Software, and Printing
06-02-2011, 09:16 AM
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Have you tried Darktable? IIRC, it uses rawtherapee's amaze demosaicing algorithm and might automatically get rid of fringing and/or chromatic aberration....assuming you shoot RAW.
edit: Looked at the exif and I see you did use darktable. That was my best suggestion. :hmm:
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Forum: Digital Processing, Software, and Printing
06-02-2011, 08:07 AM
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More than just using any Core i# CPU, you really should get a system using Intel's SandyBridge architecture. You're essentially cheating yourself out of good performance gains otherwise.
Sandy Bridge - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
I don't know about other all-in-one models from other manufacturers, but the latest iMacs all use SandyBridge. Considering their excellent screens and other components, I think the iMacs are a solid value for an AIO. Not a bad consideration if you're using your machines for 6+ years at at time anyway. If you don't like OSX, then just throw Windows on it and use that instead.
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Forum: Digital Processing, Software, and Printing
06-01-2011, 10:04 AM
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Maybe it has something to do with the default color/device profile set for your system?
Windows 7 Gadgets slow to respond, 50% CPU utilisation with gadgets that "move"
I found that when I reset my system's default monitor profile back the the built-in sRGB (Windows 7 x64), not only did the CPU gadget improve, but Lightroom was suddenly not dragging ass anymore. It's a weird symptom, and I'm not sure if it's hardware/driver dependent, but Lightroom was seriously turned into an entirely different animal when I made the correction.
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
05-31-2011, 11:56 AM
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Yeah it is unfortunate. They seem to be the best cards for speed (maybe occasionally edged out by some good batches by other rarer manufacturers...but not reliably), and I've read they take a beating better than most other brands.
But the price premium can be hard to swallow. C'est la vie.
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Forum: Pentax Camera and Field Accessories
05-30-2011, 09:14 PM
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I had a 4gb Sandisk Ultra class 4 card. It also outperformed the PNY class 10 8gb card in my k7, by a fair margin. I returned that and bought a Lexar Pro class 10 8gb instead. The Lexar doesn't really outperform the Sandisk by any appreciable amount, but the price was good for the size and at least equal performance.
At this point, I'm convinced the only cards to consider for real speed, on a reliable basis, are the Sandisk Extremes.
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