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Forum: Pentax K-5 & K-5 II 02-07-2016, 09:50 PM  
K-5II in the cold
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 12
Views: 2,164
Yesterday morning I took my K5 w/16-45 lens out for several hours in single digit (F) temps with strong winds and blowing snow (snowshoeing at 12,000-13,000 feet in Colorado). Had it exposed on a monopod the entire time and took over 100 photos. No noticeable abnormal battery drainage and never needed to replace it.

My friend had his Sony SLT A99 (an outstanding camera otherwise) and it started draining batteries quickly. Not sure how many he went through, but he brought 5!

I paid $300 for my barely used K5 and couldn't be happier with its entire performance.
Forum: Pentax K-5 & K-5 II 09-18-2015, 05:02 AM  
Picture quality with my k-5
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 16
Views: 5,358
I think some of this is ccd vs cmos. There is something about the crisp nature of the ccd renderings.

I own a K5......it takes tremendous photos and is a much more versatile tool than the older ccd Pentax DSLR's (as the newer models are to the K5).

But when the light is good and all other things equal, most often my OLD *istDL takes a more appealing shot than does the K5.
Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion 04-04-2015, 09:43 PM  
Bendict Arnold at your service.
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 11
Views: 1,617
You'd be fortunate to find one (in good condition) at that price. Not saying you won't, because I bought my K5 for that price. On Ebay in near mint condition. But I spent a long time looking before I found that deal and it was flying under the radar for some reason. Most of them are going for at least $350 on up to $425 used, body only (depending on condition and accessories).

That being said, even at $350 it's a bargain. I've had the Kx (sold it to help pay for the K5) and still own the Kr.......both are excellent for entry level. But the K5 is in a different realm completely. Buy one if you can. It's the best cheaper alternative to today's offerings.
Forum: Pentax K-5 & K-5 II 04-04-2015, 01:32 PM  
No more tests! just pictures
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 8,063
Views: 1,464,927
Forum: Lens Sample Photo Archive 02-24-2015, 07:53 PM  
Sigma 70-300mm APO DG 4-5.6 sample photos
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 18
Views: 15,034
Zoom on Sisters by ccd333, on Flickr
Forum: Video Recording and Processing 02-07-2015, 08:04 AM  
Video with the Kx: Where to start?
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 24
Views: 2,425
Yes, basic is the operative word. But in that sense it makes it pretty easy to use....

- No dedicated button.....you have to move the dial and then press the shutter to start (a quite pronounced depression is necessary).,,,,and then press again to stop. This FEELS counterintuitive to me for some reason and it takes a few times to get used to that sequence.

- Move the camera very slowly from side to side.....generally a good thing regardless of camera, but in this case with the rolling "jello thing" it will really amplify that effect if you don't move it slowly.

- No AF during operation, so you either have to manual focus or press the AF button BEFORE you record to pre-focus. You can also preset the aperture for more or less depth of field.

- Everything else is automatic. Once started, the only button that has any effect on operation is the shutter to stop it.

You might want to consider using the K5II regardless, as there is more detail in the 1080 resolution over the 720 max of the Kx. Though I have found the 720 to be very good for my purposes.

Also, keep in mind the HUGE avi files it makes! Make sure you have a high capacity SD card if you plan to take a lot of video.
Forum: Pentax K-r 07-13-2014, 11:49 AM  
Best pictures by newbbies with K-r
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 1,046
Views: 257,861
The K-r and the 16-45 make a good, relatively inexpensive combo.......Medicine Bow Peak at Sunrise, southeastern Wyoming:

Medicine Bow Peak 4th of July by ccd333, on Flickr
Forum: Lens Sample Photo Archive 06-23-2014, 10:16 PM  
SMC Pentax DA L 1:4-5.6 50-200mm ED
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 6
Views: 3,920
Nice!
Forum: Pentax K-r 04-30-2014, 04:56 AM  
K-r or K10D?
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 11
Views: 1,580
For landscape work I think it's wise to consider the size and weight of each choice you listed. Yes, the K10D is weather sealed, but it is considerably larger and heavier.....something to think about esp. if hiking and doing landscapes. Also, don't forget that you would need a matched weather sealed lens to fully appreciate the value of the K10D's body. But I have never had an issue using the K-r in most conditions outdoors.

And as to your question about the K-r being solid enough.....well, that's subjective based on a reasonable degree of owner care. But even though it is not built like a tank (like the K10D) it still has a stainless steel chassis and feels substantial in the hand (esp. compared with similar bodies from Canikon from the same era).
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 04-15-2014, 06:28 PM  
No Opinions? SMC Pentax-DA L 50-200mm F4-5.6 ED WR
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 30
Views: 4,207
I would think it would be difficult to know the parameters for what constitutes an "equally good copy".

Regardless, I must be lucky and have a good copy of the 50-200. These shots are from the standard version, original JPEG's, and taken with the K-r. The last two were at the full 200mm.


Webster Pass by ccd333, on Flickr

Webster Pass by ccd333, on Flickr

Webster Pass by ccd333, on Flickr

Webster Pass by ccd333, on Flickr
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 04-13-2014, 05:59 PM  
Landscape Photography lens
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 46
Views: 8,581
I use the 16-45 now because I like the extra 2mm on the wide end, but I have always been able to get some very good results with the 18-55 and landscapes. These were taken with the K-r and two different 18-55's,,,,,,,and are all original JPEG's with minor level adjustments in post processing:

Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness by ccd333, on Flickr

Kebler Pass by ccd333, on Flickr

Reflective waters by ccd333, on Flickr
Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion 03-30-2014, 05:10 PM  
buy a new camera or new kit?
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 21
Views: 2,888
Absolutely, Ron. Everyone has those decisions to make and each one has a certain amount of relevance. I think some of that is want vs need. Sometimes photographers may not fully know what they want until they actually try a more advanced camera. It's similar to the upgrade from a point and shoot. All I knew before I bought my first DSLR was that it meant less noise and improved image quality. But as you use it and get familiar with the settings/improvements you grow to appreciate what a more expensive camera has to offer. It's not that you necessarily NEED 8fps (or other upgraded features), but having that option is less confining and provides the latitude to experiment. In that regard, I think if I could have spent more on a nicer body I would have done so from the outset. Certainly there's something to be said for learning gradually by upgrading incrementally, but ultimately the total learning curve can be assimilated by going for the best body you want to buy and can afford. So as much as it might be about evaluating needs for some, for others it might be more about their desire to have something better and then see where it takes them.

To that point, I have seen many people come on this forum and ask what camera to buy.......and even if they have never tried a DSLR, they still are interested, and most people have suggested, in buying a K3 or K5iis. And many seem willing to sacrifice financially, sometimes well beyond their budgetary constraints, in order to get a body of that caliber. That is probably what prompted the video maker to mention (as the second photographer) the idea of purchasing such an expensive body left them with no money left for lenses. But I would say what happens more often is:

- the person who is willing to sell their soul to get that nice of a body will also buy the nicer lens at some point.

- the person buys what they can truly afford (ie recognizing other financial obligations) and is always looking for deals on relatively lower quality glass.....in the hopes they may find that "great copy" at a price lower than usual (ie Ebay is your friend).

For those who can afford getting both easily, I think they probably will. I don't know too many people with lots of money who will buy something that is perceived to be inferior just because they may not be "ready" for something better.

---------- Post added 03-30-14 at 05:17 PM ----------



I hear that. Nice avatar by the way. Love that album. :cool:
Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion 03-30-2014, 03:43 PM  
buy a new camera or new kit?
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 21
Views: 2,888
I've seen several of his videos. Someone just having a style does not make them appealing. He can do whatever he wants, but to me there's a difference between not taking things too seriously and acting so silly you lose credibility in your message.

I see photography as an art form with a certain degree of dignity involved, so i doubt I will ever get past his "style".
Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion 03-30-2014, 02:09 PM  
buy a new camera or new kit?
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 21
Views: 2,888
Well, frankly I don't think the guy in the video is funny at all. I think he makes a mockery of the situation, which even in the context of the underlying point being accurate......the way he was treating the equipment it makes me question his photographic skills.

The truth is I have a lens similar to the Sigma he used and I have taken some excellent photos with it. And that's even with it on the entry level K-r, K-x, and *istDL. To say it's more about understanding how to use a camera/lens combo is a massive understatement after watching the video.

Other ironies include:

- Yes, cameras do come and go.....but that's the point as well. He even said himself in the video "they go out of date eventually". The body is a tool, but as Adam suggested there are better bodies that do take better photos in many situations, offer more versatility in various conditions, and have the ability to stand up to a more rugged environment.

- If you have enough money to buy a 1DMark lV, then you probably can get an L lens at some point as well.

- Conversely, if you can only afford an entry level body then you are likely to only get cheaper glass as well. But I think the distinction becomes...... is cheap always bad? I think a lot of it is in the connotation of the word "cheap". The point being you can find decent glass for less money if you are patient enough.


Not disagreeing with the basic premise. I have entry level DSLR's and they work well. But I also understand their limitations, and I could see how having a better body in certain situations would help me as a photographer (regardless of glass). The good news is the standard for an entry level and the features, quality of sensor (I think we have the K-x to thanks for that), etc. has improved dramatically without spending any more to get one. I paid the same amount for my K-r that I did for my DL.......and you can get a K50 now for around the same price as the K-r was when it came out, and by all accounts it's far superior in many ways.

Ultimately, it's more about the photographer no matter which lens you put on what camera. And I have no doubt that I could take better photos than the ones taken in the video with the Sigma lens used. :hmm:
Forum: Pentax K-r 03-29-2014, 08:51 PM  
Best pictures by newbbies with K-r
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 1,046
Views: 257,861
Glad you both enjoy the photo. Steve, thanks.....and, yes......the 18-55 kit lens. I have since moved on to the 16-45 with my K-r for most wide angle shots, but still use the 18-55 with good results on my K-x.
Forum: Pentax K-r 03-28-2014, 05:17 PM  
Best pictures by newbbies with K-r
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 1,046
Views: 257,861
K-r and 18-55

Forum: Pentax K-r 03-26-2014, 08:38 PM  
Best pictures by newbbies with K-r
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 1,046
Views: 257,861
Great Sand Dunes National Park with K-r and 16-45mm





Forum: Pentax K-r 03-11-2014, 08:52 PM  
K-r Kit Lens. Good or bad?
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 23
Views: 4,242
......and I paid $160 for mine, used but like new. Patience.....and Ebay.....are your friends.

It's a very good lens too.....and a great value for anywhere around $200. I wouldn't say it's way beyond the 18-55 optically, but definitely better as my copy (vs multiple copies) goes. I think the most significant thing is the extra 2mm on the wide end is way more of a difference in the field than I had imagined. I hardly notice the 10mm on the long end, and appreciate the constant f4.

Also, I have not experienced any negative effects of the often mentioned wobble in any practical usage. It is a little heavier and bulkier than the 18-55, but I definitely would not give up the wider focal range for a few ounces.
Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion 02-24-2014, 05:55 PM  
sling type camera bag for K-r
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 9
Views: 1,552
Tamrac Velocity. They come in multiple sizes, are very well constructed, comfortable, versatile, and reasonably priced. I bought an older model in like new condition on Ebay for a lot less than newer styles.
Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion 02-15-2014, 11:35 AM  
Should I even upgrade?
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 28
Views: 2,779
Sorry, I must have been writing my post as you posted yours about buying the k5 IIs. Congrats! Just for clarification, though......the K-r does indeed have a 3 frame auto bracketing.
Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion 02-15-2014, 08:35 AM  
Should I even upgrade?
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 28
Views: 2,779
This! A night shot, hand held(!), with that level of sharpness. I would trade the amount of detail in the building for the amount of noise present any day. What ISO is this? Keep in mind that if you push a camera to or near its max ISO setting, there is some compromise to be expected. Not saying the newer sensors wouldn't perform better to varying degrees, but there is a point of diminishing return on any camera. I think everyone has to weigh the investment in funds to realistic expectations on performance (based on that investment).
Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion 01-26-2014, 09:20 PM  
tripod recommendations
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 15
Views: 2,561
The Slik tripod mentioned is 18 inches long when retracted. Don't know how big your pack is, but I know my Pro II fits in my backpack quite easily. I usually just strap it on the side and that works well too.

Don't know much about the Dolica. My initial reaction is one of extreme skepticism about the 15 pound rating. Also, it only extends to 57" with the column fully raised. On a 2.5 pound tripod, my guess is that would make it a bit shaky. It's 47" with the column down. Finally, that's a lot of leg locks to adjust......and they are the twist kind. The cam type like on the Slik are typically faster.
Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion 01-24-2014, 04:47 PM  
tripod recommendations
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 15
Views: 2,561
Plus one. This is a great, durable tripod that packs down small but performs like a much larger one. I have put mine through absolute hell over several years with 3 DSLR's and I keep waiting for it to fail. The ballhead is tiny but holds my cameras sturdy as a rock. It might be one of the best values of any purchase on any single item I have made.....camera related or otherwise. I would give it a 5/5 as well.
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 01-20-2014, 08:25 PM  
Advice on lenses for a new K-R user
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 11
Views: 1,295
I wouldn't discount the 50-200 as a legitimate long zoom. It is one of the lightest and smallest 200mm range lenses made, and is sharper than most give it credit.

Since you are in the UK, you might want to check out the Pentax User UK forum as well. They have some very insightful owners and may have some info unique to your region.
Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion 01-11-2014, 10:25 PM  
K-x or K-r Noise vs. K20D
Posted By ccd333
Replies: 14
Views: 2,954
Technically they are not the same sensor. The K-r featured an "upgraded" version of the Sony IMX021 12.4 MP sensor, with reported improved high ISO capabilities. After comparing the two, the conclusion seemed to suggest the newer version on the K-r handled noise in a smoother way, but the K-x retained more detail. The DXO marks seemed to confirm this in their testing.

I own both cameras and notice the slight detail difference in the K-x......though in most cases it is quite negligible.
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