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Forum: Lens Clubs
02-09-2016, 02:45 PM
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Shot last summer using my vacation setup - K7 and 18-55 WR (also carry my 50-200)
The high res version is quite amazing. This on screen resolution isn't good at all.
---------- Post added 02-09-16 at 03:52 PM ----------
K7 and 18-55 WR
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Forum: Pentax K-3 & K-3 II
12-31-2013, 09:49 AM
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Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion
11-21-2013, 07:12 PM
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Not unusual at all where I'm from. Back when I purchased my K5, I had a d7000 in my left had and a K5 in my right. I had been a Pentax shooter, (K100ds, K200, etc..) for some time but was considering switching at the time, which meant I would be buying lenses and everything. One of the sales guy's at Henry's convinced me to stay with Pentax. He had a HUGE appreciation for Pentax. He also would have made much more money off me if I had switched to Nikon (at the time...). But yet, he still suggested that I stay.
I was also later told that one of the Pentax reps for Canada lives in my city (Winnipeg) and the service for Pentax here is second to none. I have yet to prove that as I have yet to have a problem with my Pentax cameras. With that, we have a major Ricoh building downtown... not sure if that helps, but this all happened long before Ricoh purchased Pentax.
Anyway, Henry's is AWESOME! Never a bias point of view towards the 'big two'. Actually the opposite I find. When I go in and mention I shoot Pentax, I get first class service and the Pentax selection has always been excellent.
(BTW, I honestly have no affiliation with Henry's other than being a regular customer due to the way they've treated me, which has always been great!)
I want to mention that last year I had a brief breakdown and purchased a Nikon D300s and 50 1.8G. Although I think it was a great camera, I had to let it go because, other that the auto focus, it couldn't compete with my K5. I just wasn't as satisfied with it and could justify the money I spent on it. I still have a K5, a K7 and many Pentax and Sigma lenses. I also use it all semi-professionally on a regular basis for everything from motorsports, portraits, head shots, family, and fun...
It's all good...
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Forum: Photographic Industry and Professionals
10-18-2013, 08:14 AM
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I had this experience lately with a real estate brokerage. The brokerage owner was someone I've known for years and we bought and sold 3 or 4 houses through in the past before she was a brokerage owner. She has literally made tens of thousands of dollars from me.
Well, recently I've been offering head shots as part of my design/photography business. This agent is starting a new brokerage and has hired a bunch of new recruits. When she found out I was doing head shots, she sent some new recuits my way. Anyway, I get a call from some of them asking my price. Because I'm just starting out (with head shots) I decided to only charge $150 for everything (including the processed photos on a disk) and unlimited usage. Through my local research and consulting other headshot photographers, my price was far less than reasonable and they actually told me to charge more. I stuck with $150 just because I was trying to build a client base and get my name out.
So I finish the first shoot in my studio with professional strobes and backdrop (which cost me money) and the client (new recruit for the new brokerage) was supremely happy with the results and paid me cash on the spot. I delivered her the disc the next day.
All was great... until her "boss" called me (my *now former* real estate agent). She tore into me about how horrible I was to charge for my service. She said she sent them my way for "really cheap, or even free" head shots. She never asked me for this "free" service before sending them my way at all. As far as I knew, they were just agents that heard about my service and called me up. I simply sold my service, made the client happy and got paid for my work. The new recuit agent got a great deal, some fantastic looking head shots and was more than happy. She even said she would pass my name on as much a she could.
Meanwhile, my now •former• real estate agent has cut me off, and I assume, has told all her new recuits to stay away from me. She also just bought a brand new BMW 5 series... :hmm:
Her excuse was that I was "just staring out" (even though I've been a semi-professional photographer for 10 years now). I wanted to suggest to her that when we first hired her to help us find our first house (over ten years ago) she too was "just starting out". I wanted to suggest that maybe we shouldn't have paid her the $6000.00 commission she made from that first home... you know, because she needed to gain some experience as an agent first. ;)
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Forum: Photographic Industry and Professionals
03-30-2013, 04:48 PM
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That's odd. I've gone in prepared to pay full price and actually had the salesman go online to find a better price so he could price match it for me. I've always been happy with the service, although I'm not in Ontario any more...
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Forum: Pentax News and Rumors
10-02-2012, 09:06 AM
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Ha! I guess not. I was there in early August. The weather and sunlight looks identical though which got me thinking.
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Forum: Pentax News and Rumors
10-02-2012, 08:46 AM
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Wow, I was in Banff this summer and shot some of those exact places. The chipmunk was probably shot up on the mountain that you get to on the Banff Gondola. I have some of those same shots from that trip. Could even have the same chipmunk :lol: They were right at the peak near the old stone observatory shack.
I carried my K5 all over. I do remember seeing another Pentax or two but not sure if they were K5's.
The reason it's interesting to me is that the weather and time of day were the exact same as when I was there. Makes me think that one of those Japanese tourists walking around with DSLR's (which were the high majority) may have been carrying a secret K5II and I would have never known...! LOL!! :)
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Forum: Photographic Industry and Professionals
09-20-2012, 07:32 AM
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I agree! This site sells more Pentax equipment than Pentax's marketing has ever sold as far as I can tell. It's also the best free 'customer service' information source a company could ever wish for. Do a google search about almost anything photography related. It doesn't even have to be directly involving Pentax, and many, if not most times this site is referenced near the top. Years ago, when I bought my first Pentax K100ds, it was this site that opened the door. I would have probably just bought a Canikon because... when buying a DSLR, that's just what you do. I stumbled across this site right away and it opened the door to another option. I've now owned at least 6 Pentax bodies and many lenses as well as Flashes, etc. I would never have even considered Pentax had it not been for information from this site. Thanks!
With that said, these latest announcements, etc have changed my outlook. That, and my photography career is moving forward fast. Because of this, I just bought a new Nikon system. Sorry Pentax. You will be demoted to backup for me. After a few days with my Nikon, I couldn't be happier and will not be returning it. I'm now moving forward fast and need equipment that will keep up. However, I will still keep one of my Pentax bodies... for now.;)
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Forum: Pentax K-5 & K-5 II
10-28-2011, 07:52 AM
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Everything seems really tight on the new K5. As stated, I had used the demo from the store for about 2 weeks before mine arrived. It was clearly an older version and appeared to be handled quite a bit. It took amazing photos. I did check for the dreaded sensor stains on that version as well just out of curiosity since it was an older camera with lots of use in store. There was just one tiny spec I noticed that wasn't dust and consistent on all tests (F22 shot on plain background). Hardly something that would have worried me with that camera.
The new K5 that I just received is perfect. Again, everything is really tight and the quality is as good or better than the K7 when brand new. I believe my new K5 is a very recent build. I also checked the sensor and it's absolutely spotless. Oh, and the shutter release seems fine, but to me, it's not something I would really noticed unless it was really bad or something. The lens release button seems really tight too. The demo one seemed a little flimsy.
Anyway, aside from all this concern, I'm just going to use the thing and use it hard! That's why I bought a Pentax! ;)
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Forum: Pentax K-5 & K-5 II
10-27-2011, 09:19 PM
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I got the same deal through Henry's. I didn't need the 18-55 WR lens, but at that price I couldn't refuse! Body alone was $999. Now I have a lens for rough shooting.
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Forum: Pentax K-5 & K-5 II
10-27-2011, 08:45 PM
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Forum: Pentax K-5 & K-5 II
10-27-2011, 08:28 PM
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... for new K5 owners?
I just got mine! Good times!:) I have tested it against my K7 and It's really nice. Oh, I love the K7 and will not get rid of it as it now makes a great back-up as well as for rough day shoots and motorcycle adventures. The K5 will be my working camera and indoor low light monster.
I was VERY close to switching to Nikon however :confused: . What concerned me was the lack of Pentax equipment at the store. I went in to purchase it and there were none in stock. I was ready and it was pretty disappointing because I needed it for work and I had held off for so long. Luckily, the store I purchased it from let me take the floor model home until mine came in. They basically let me test it for 2 weeks. In that time I did 4 photoshoots and did lots of research on the Nikon D7000 and others just to weigh my options. I really asked myself whether it was time to switch because of the lack of availability for me (I needed it for work). Also, I'm concerned that there is no upgrade path extending any further. The 645D is just not in my sights and is not practical at all for the average working photographer. There is a hole to fill between the K5 and the 645D. (No, I don't want to start a FF discussion here!:mad:)
In the end, I realized I would be pretty stupid to switch after getting a "demo" K5 to freely test for 2 weeks and also the fact that I can't find anything that is better on the Nikon D7000 or any other brand in this range. The K5 just beats them. Also, it would be stupid to try to collect lenses for a new Nikon system. Just not an option. The K5 with the K7 fits my current needs perfectly... for now.
What an AWESOME camera the K5 is! The image and build quality are typically PENTAX and that is one reason why I'm sticking to it. Do you hear us PENATAX? We are loyal. We fight to stay with your brand. We tolerate the subtle ridicule (yet intrigued glancings) from the Canikon "professionals". I spent (wasted) so much time researching other brands feeling skeptical of where the brand is now headed. I stressed over my options. Well, I'm not going anywhere, so I sincerely hope there will be a good upgrade path for working photographers such as myself. We need something in between the K5 and the 645D. I also hope to see the Pentax shelves grow a little at my local camera store. Since I've started shopping there, it has dwindled significantly :(
Anyway, I just wanted to express my joy and passion for my new K5. I am really not a fanboy of Pentax. I think Nikon and Canon (and Sony) have absolutely amazing cameras. I would by a D3S in a heartbeat if I could afford one right now. In a year or so however, I will be further along in my growing photography career and I will be able to afford one... does that mean I WILL have to switch?? Maybe I won't need to. I certainly hope not. :cool:
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Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion
10-11-2011, 10:03 AM
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Sorry for the double post. Just one more thing...
I also was approached by a gentleman who noticed my camera this weekend. He stated he was very much into photography and loved Nikon cameras. He glanced at my camera (Pentax K7) and immediately said, "Oooo, Pentax! Those are really expensive aren't they!!" He seemed under the impression that Pentax was a more "specialized" or "professional" brand. I just go with it!! :cool:
I saw a bunch of mothers around taking photos of their kids. Many of them had Canon Rebels. ALL of them had the pop-up flashes (popped up of course). They buy the Rebel (big DLSR camera to them) and put it in Auto mode. I even saw a "professional" doing an autumn family photoshoot. She was obviously getting paid to do it. She was using a Rebel w/ kit lens and of course the pop up flash. Canon marketing sheeple everywhere. :D
Not saying you can't get paid to shoot a family with a rebel. It's just that when to see the pop-up flash (when conditions reveal you can do better in manual or at least AV) there is something wrong.
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Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion
10-11-2011, 09:41 AM
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This seems really strange to me. I have no doubt that Pentax is more rare that Canikon. That is pretty obvious. However, my personal experience is quite the contrary.
I really don't know why, but almost every time I go out to public places to shoot (parks, museums, zoo's, etc., etc.), I always see Pentax DSLR's. Seriously! I'm always shocked by how many I see. Just this weekend, again, I was at a nature reserve and sure enough, there was a guy with a Pentax (I think Kr or something?). The other DSLR I saw there was a Canon 7D. I see Pentax's all the time. It is actually really strange to me.
Now it can't just be the city I live in because I recently moved to a different city. I can safely say the percentage I have seen balances out between the two cities. Maybe it's a Canadian thing?
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Forum: Monthly Photo Contests
05-25-2011, 08:50 PM
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This is a HUGE tree I came across one day at a park here in Winnipeg Canada.
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Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion
04-12-2011, 08:36 AM
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Sorry if this has already been discussed...
Is it me, or is Canon now getting into the whole multi-coloured DSLR thing? Or have they been doing this a long time? If not, it seems Pentax has started quite a trend...
Canon EOS 1100D is available in grey, red, black and brown.
Special Bundles Offer for Canon EOS 1100D - DigitalRev.com
(by the way, I'm Canadian... hence my spelling of "Colourful") ;)
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Forum: Pentax K-5 & K-5 II
04-01-2011, 09:37 AM
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This is all just an April fools joke, Right? :o
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Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion
03-23-2011, 03:05 PM
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I agree. As I stated in my earlier post, I couldn't be happier with the OEM. I noticed right away that there is a steel plate on the inside battery compartment on the bottom mount. I assume this is to give it more strength and rigidity when mounted to a tripod. Not sure if the cheap one has this or not but from what I've read it's solely plastic. This is a big deal for me when using heavier lenses that don't have the lens collar mount. All that force pulling on the grip mounted to the camera.
Again, the quality is what sold me. However, I do agree that it is expensive. I was lucky and just sold my K100DS to pay for it. There was plenty left over.. :cool:
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Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion
03-17-2011, 01:20 PM
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I bought the OEM grip recently. I had a look at the cheaper ones but just couldn't do it. I had the OEM on my old K200D and loved it, so I wanted one on my K7.
I couldn't be happier. The grip is just amazing! The build quality is impeccable (like the camera) and the feel in so nice now. I have large hands so it helps a lot. Knowing that it is weather sealed is also a huge benefit.
I put 6 fresh Eneloops in the grip and carry extras. With all the batteries in the camera and grip charged full, I haven't seen the battery meter reduce at all. Even after shooting in blizzard conditions for a long time. Portrait holding is perfect too.
When mounting the camera on a tri-pod and grip, I am confident that the grip will hold tight to the body, even with the weight of a lens.
Very happy with my purchase of the Pentax BG-4 grip.
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Forum: Monthly Photo Contests
02-02-2011, 09:05 AM
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Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion
01-26-2011, 03:46 PM
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How does this work? Will it work between a K7 and K100DS?
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Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion
01-26-2011, 02:45 PM
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Actually, I just moved from Toronto last June and while living there was totally surprised at Pentax's presence (small yes.. but not too bad considering). I purchased my first 2 Pentax DSLR's from Futureshop of all places (K100DS and K200D) and always found the selection at Henry's downtown to be quite large. They usually stock everything and had a HUGE selection of old lenses as far as I could tell.
I used to see random ads all around the GTA. One that comes to mind is a Beer Store near Dundas and Jane has a Pentax ad in the parking lot actaully facing just the Beer Store. It's been there for years. I was always surprised by that one. Maybe they realize beer drinkers prefer Penatx?? :D I know I do. :cool:
Nice photo by the way. I used to notice that exact sign all the time coming south on the Don Valley "parking lot".. ;)
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Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion
11-11-2010, 11:38 AM
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Congrats on the K-x!:)
I still have all my Eneloops from my K200D. They are awesome!! I will be using them in the grip for my K7 once I get it. That solves the back-up issue. I did kinda like the AA batteries for the K200d. It was pretty convenient although I'll see how the K7 battery works out. So far it's been fully charged with much use setting up the camera and testing. Time will tell...
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Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion
11-11-2010, 11:33 AM
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Yes, the battery grip is a must for me as I have big hands. I am debating if I should buy the aftermarket grip and save the money or get the original Pentax one. I like the fact that the Pentax is weather sealed but it's so expensive ($279 CAD)
Yes, in many (if not all) aspects, the K7 is better than the K200D. I am very happy with my purchase.
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Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion
11-11-2010, 10:09 AM
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Ah yes, thanks for reminding me! That is great news.
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