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Forum: Pentax Compact Cameras
08-13-2015, 01:54 PM
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I owned the X30 when I had an opportunity to buy an MX-1 cheap. I have owned both cameras for close to a year now. The X30 sees more use because of its EVF. I cannot state specifically why, but I do, slightly, prefer the images from the MX1; but not enough to trump the fun and advantages of having a really great EVF.....And it is a great EVF. If your doing it for the EVF, it is a good move.
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Forum: Pentax K-5 & K-5 II
08-12-2015, 01:10 AM
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I owned the original K5 and had some issues with camera lock-up. Additionally, the auto focus was not as reliably accurate as I expected a modern DSLR to be. The K5IIs has shown no operational faults, and the auto focus is pretty reliable and accurate......When I use it.
I am not well versed in technical discussion of image quality, I have to go with what appeals to my eyes. In my opinion, in comparison to images I have retained from my old K5, the images from the K5IIs seem to have better detail, while retaining all of the other great qualities of the images from the K5. If my K5 had been a reliable camera, I would still have it, and may not have purchased the K5IIs. I had no dissatisfaction with images from the K5.
I think the K5IIs model benefited from Pentax' experience with the K5, and includes an upgraded sensor. Both are great cameras.
If you are a K5 owner, and happy with it, and you are considering a second camera, It is hard to imagine you will not be a little bit happier with the K5IIs. It is like having the opportunity to replace a car that you love with a newer model that, while exactly the same in appearance, feel and fit, handles better, has more power, and gets better gas mileage. It is a true upgrade of a great camera.....Not a different camera.
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Forum: Pentax K-5 & K-5 II
08-10-2015, 05:53 PM
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Sometimes, after shooting with the K5IIs, I wish Pentax would decide to keep manufacturing the K5IIs camera......Even as they continue to design and manufacture newer models. It is just such a satisfying experience- using the K5IIs- from press of the shutter button, to marveling at the images rendered by the old MF Takumars. It is like Pentax hit the sweet spot with this camera.
I own a K3 as well; it stands duty as a back-up. I find myself thinking more and more about buying a spare K5IIs.
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Forum: Pentax K-S1 & K-S2
07-26-2015, 04:53 PM
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I have been in no less than three authorized Pentax dealers and have, in all cases, found that nobody even knew the K-S2 exists.
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Forum: General Talk
07-25-2015, 04:32 AM
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That CX is nice. I never owned one, but always liked the look of them. Reminds me of the Guzzis I've owned.
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Forum: Pentax Mirrorless Cameras
07-05-2015, 12:52 AM
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Forum: Pentax News and Rumors
06-13-2015, 03:36 AM
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When the GR and the Nikon A came out, I went with the A. It has been a good camera. But I believe, had I the chance to to make the decision again, I would go with the GR because of it's superior feel in hand and much lighter weight. If the new camera is not going to include any new, major physical feature, e.g. tilt screen, EVF, SR, I would like to see something really cool and unique, like a dedicated/enhanced B&W sensor. I would go for that in a heartbeat....Even though I already own the A.
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Forum: Pentax News and Rumors
06-12-2015, 06:56 PM
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Has Ricoh a tradition of using the II designator on new models? If not, this may be a manifestation of Pentax influence on Ricoh. If so, It stands to reason that the GRII will be almost indistinguishable- externally- from the GR. My guess would be that there will be no major changes to hardware associated with the camera....Maybe a few new operating features.
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Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion
05-29-2015, 05:24 PM
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This might work out fine. These are from this morning, with the k5II2 and the new Vivitar macro, as I was ready to leave for work. Pretty thick fog. Underexposed. But not bad from a sharpness and contrast standpoint........At least that is my unqualified position.
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Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion
05-29-2015, 07:47 AM
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Your point about focal lenght is one that have, and continue to, struggle with when it comes to general purpose lens for day-to-day use. While I am not good at composition- in general- it seems the wider I go, the worse it gets.... I intend to make this one lens experiment an opportunity to work on that very weak aspect of my photography.
I like the DA lenses from a performance standpoint. I do not like the fact that they do not include an aperture ring. Years ago, when I was riding motorcycles, I was, then too, locked in the past: I would not even consider a machine that did not include a kick starter.
Darn it! I want my aperture ring/kick starter.
Thanks again.
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Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion
05-28-2015, 06:24 PM
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Well I found a pretty inexpensive Vivitar 55mm 2.8 Macro on Ebay and rolled the dice. It arrived today and appears to be in pretty good shape. Let the experiment begin. It is a bit larger than I expected, especially in comparison to the M42 50mm Takumars, but is of quality build.
Thanks to everyone for the great comments and benefit of experience. I figure, even if the Vivitar is not the best of the lenses available out there, it will allow me to figure out if the idea of a 50mm macro for a general purpose walk-around lens is a good one.
Wayne
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Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion
05-25-2015, 05:44 PM
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Thanks for all of the responses. I think I am going to look closely at the SMC Pentax 50mm 2.8 A and/or the Vivitar 55 2.8 macro.
Best regards,
Wayne
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Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion
05-25-2015, 10:31 AM
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I guess the thing about the recently purchased Vivitar 90mm macro that has surprised me so much is the fact that, aside from being a great macro lens, it seems to be a truly superior lens, across the board.
Upon reading the first response to my original post, I realized I may not have been specific enough in my question. For me, the macro capability is a secondary consideration.....Something I have an interest in, but not a driving will to perfect. The question was prompted by an ad I recently saw on the Buy/Sell section for a 60mm 2.8 Mamiya macro lens. I know nothing about that particular lens, but it got me wondering if there are other great old, fast, manual focusing, macro lenses out there that have the same superior general photography characteristics of the Vivitar "Bokina." Specifically, 50-60mm manual focus lenses.
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Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion
05-25-2015, 08:44 AM
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I think I am finally narrowing the decision for a general purpose lens. I have decided that 50mm is the focal length I prefer, but I enjoy having the capacity to take a macro shot. I kind of stumbled on this when using my M42 Super-MacroTakumar lens for a couple of days straight. It is a great lens, but at f4 maximum aperture, it is just not fast enough to be a "go anywhere, do anything" lens.
I consider myself an advanced novice; maybe not wise enough to know if this particular choice for the purpose proposed is a good one. My recent purchase of a Vivitar 90mm 2.5 Macro (Bokina) from a forum member is the event that has solidified my choice. The new/old Vivitar is a spectacular lens, and has been on my K5IIs since the lens arrived; however, the focal length is just too long for every day general purpose. For now, I plan on carrying both lenses with me, but it really doesn't get me to that "one lens, one camera" experience that I want to try for the next year.
Is there a "Bokina" equivalent in the 50mm Macro world? Is there a general consensus on which is the best fast 50mm macro for general photography use?
I have become a manual focus junkie, so I am particularly interested in manual focus lenses.
Thanks for any direction.
Wayne
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Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion
05-23-2015, 06:00 PM
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When my K3 had the "flippy mirror" problem, I initially attempted to contact Precision directly. It has been a while since I did it, and to the best of my recollection, I had trouble getting someone to answer the phone. I then researched a bit and found the Ricoh (not Precision) customer service phone number. Ricoh did send me a shipping label and I was able to get the problem taken care of quickly...About 7 to 10 days if memory serves. The problem has not come back since the camera was returned.
The big problem, in my case, was the fact that the first phone number I found for Pentax service was the direct number for Precision. If yours is a warranty related problem, I do not advise going directly to Precision. Maybe Precision behaves differently when Ricoh is making them accountable for work.
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Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion
05-20-2015, 10:57 AM
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One of the cameras I gave up in order to return to Pentax was the Panasonic GH4. It was a bit lighter to carry, but I found that, as far volume goes, my equivalent Pentax gear is not more bulky than the M4/3 gear. I know it is largely a matter of personal taste, but, I feel the image quality of the K3 or K5IIs is such that it justifies a bit more weight over the M43 gear.
Personally, if it is a choice between reducing size and weight with associated increased complexity and reduced reliabiilty, or maintaining present size and weight and increased reliability- through gradual maturity of the camera line- I would prefer the latter.
I do wish Pentax would re visit the K-01.
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Forum: General Talk
05-11-2015, 08:15 AM
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You know, I think- especially after seeing the photo of the old BSA on the stand- that one of the things I have missed most about motorcycles is those unexpected stops at some old, newly discovered, bike shop. There are few things more interesting than a garage full of old bikes.
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Forum: General Talk
05-09-2015, 01:08 PM
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I was born just before the period of time when Japanese motorcycles began to rule the American motorcycle market- in fact, to such an extent that Harley-Davidson was almost ruined. My mother was one of those who was adamant that I would not be allowed to jeopardize my life by riding, as long as she had anything to say about it, a motorcycle. The result: I became obsessed with motorcycles……Especially Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Seeing a big, majestic HD on the road, or on the kickstand, was an event. You didn’t see them every day. Each one seemed unique; almost a personal statement about the owner, even if he ( women on motorcycles was almost unheard of in those days) wasn’t with the bike. The Japanese machines, while still exciting in concept, were everywhere; nothing special; each one pretty much like all of the others in utility and perfection…..Every new model presenting gradual, predictable improvements; spec sheets testifying to mind-boggling performance-for those few who could handle it. The HDs, when they briefly appeared, seemed magical; warranting full attention. Never boring.
Nowadays, when I go to a race, like the Springfield Mile, or some other event where motorcycles are gathered, it is exactly the opposite. I am drawn to the rare, vintage Japanese machines…. Time travelers; each resplendent in its imperfection; worth a closer examination; bringing back memories as flawed as the bikes themselves. The numerous newer HDs? Shining; monotonous; some louder than others, but pretty much all the same.
My experience with motorcycle celebrity:
Years ago, at the Springfield Mile- it might have been HD's 100th anniversary year- Willie G. Davidson appeared and sat in a seat right in front of me. He was impossible to miss, his white hair springing out from under his signature beret. Seen from behind, it was kind of like seeing an aged Bozo The Clown in a beret. He stuck out like a sore thumb. The HD faithful saw him immediately: “Hey!” they must have thought “There he is, The Legend himself.” In short order, the brave among them began to move toward The Legend. After brief interview and nod of approval with/from The Legend’s attendant- a mountain of a man with “Trash” tattooed on his arm- several were allowed to kneel next to The Legend, whisper some heart-felt devotional to HD, and request an autograph. The first ten or so met with success and moved away with faces shining and treasured autograph clutched in hand or emblazoned forever on a prized HD T-shirt. But then The Legend indicated he tired of the attention: a glance at the attendant, a subtle fidget in his seat. The next supplicant was met with a stern look and the extended palm of the hand belonging to mighty arm bearing the “Trash” tattoo. The Legend was tired of the burden of celebrity and wanted to enjoy the race. The faithful got the message; The Legend was left in peace.
It was at that moment that I realized just how painful the burden of civility can be. With every particle of my being, I wanted to lean forward and whisper into The Legend’s ear: “ I just want you to know that there is at least one soul in this place that thinks HD sucks.” It would have been a lie; but it would have been fun… I thought he needed to hear it. But my daughter was seated next to me, and I didn’t want to create a scene. She hated it when I created a scene. I resisted the urge, regretting it ever since.
My responsibility as a parent brought back memories of my Mother’s attitude toward motorcycles; I gave them up. Now, the girls are grown and I am getting the itch. I think a vintage Guzzi will just about hit the spot.
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Forum: Sold Items
05-07-2015, 06:23 PM
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Forum: Post Your Photos!
05-03-2015, 05:32 AM
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Thanks for the comments. I appreciate the encouragement.
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Forum: General Photography
05-02-2015, 06:04 AM
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Thanks for the comments.
Officiousbystander, thanks for the lesson in cropping.
"Ghost of Christmas past"
In my younger days, I did hunt these magnificent birds. Many times a herd of hens would not show up until after sunset, i.e. past time when it was legal to take one, and I would remain in the woods and enjoy the activity. Once the level of light gets to the point where it is difficult to see clearly, they can seem almost ghostly as they unexpectedly appear, and, just as quickly and mysteriously, disappear into the woods. It is, quite frankly, an atmospheric experience.
Thanks again.
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Forum: Pentax News and Rumors
05-01-2015, 08:18 PM
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I guess there is really nothing left to discuss or review at this point. As far as I am concerned, if the SR is 25% better, and the sensor shift really works like they say, I will likely go for it. I am kind of anxious to read an extensive review of whether everything is as advertised. All I ask is that they get the bugs worked out before they distribute.
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Forum: Post Your Photos!
05-01-2015, 04:01 PM
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Forum: Post Your Photos!
05-01-2015, 03:40 PM
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I have a slight blue/green color vision deficiency. Forgive me if there are glaring color problems. This one is the result of several weeks of trying to gain proficiency with this wonderful, funky, old Takumar. I forgot to indicate "nature" instead of "abstract." I hope no aficionados of the Abstract are offended.
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