HD Pentax-D FA* 70-200mm F2.8 ED DC AW

General Image Quality

In the following pages we will look in detail at every measurable performance parameter, but for the moment we will consider those subjective elements that can make or break an image.

Field of View

The 70-200mm range is extremely common in photography. In fact, one of the first computer-designed lens in the world (some say the first) was the Vivitar series 1 70-210mm F3.5 released in 1975. This range of focal lengths remains popular to this day. Considered the workhorse of the professional photographer, the 70-200mm has been called the "ultimate people lens" (on Full Frame). From portraits to sports and events, this range gives a lot of flexibility. It can also be used, in a pinch, for many other applications, for instance landscapes details, close-ups and many others.

The following image is a 100% crop of a well-known subject captured at 200mm, to give a feeling of what can be achieved with a K-1 (click on the image for a larger view).

Moon

On APS-C, the field of view is narrower; the widest setting is a bit tight for portraits except in large areas or outdoors (see the DA* 50-135mm F2.8 for a comparable APS-C alternative).

Color and Contrast

The 70-200mm's results are perfectly in line with what one expects from a Pentax lens. Colors are natural and accurate, with a fine level of gradation in the shadows. We observed no rendering variation with focal length. In good conditions, the vivid colors and shallow depth of field create images that seem to pop, with that 3D effect people often associate with the Pentax Limited lenses. The image below is a fine example.

Colors

Metering and Exposure

Exposure errors were rare during our time with the lens. Even in complex lighting, results were generally very accurate. Exposure is even at all focal lengths.

Starbursts

As can be seen on the image below, the 9 curved aperture do not help in creating particularly remarkable starbursts.

Starbursts

Lens Corrections and EXIF Data

The HD D FA* 70-200mm is a lens made for digital, and as such it includes all the necessary data for modern camera bodies to apply in-camera lens correction when required. Vignetting, diffraction, aberration, and distortion can be adjusted in-camera.

EXIF data is complete and accurate, and Pentax camera bodies are able to record every relevant parameter into the file. Note that it is up to your software to properly decode this data when an image is viewed on a PC.

On-Board Flash Usage

The K-1 does not have an on-board flash. When testing on a K-3 (APS-C DSLR), there is surprisingly no shadow cast, as can be seen on the image below captured at 70mm and approximately 1.5m from the camera body.

Flash shadow

User Report

The HD D FA* 70-200mm is a large, massive lens. Taking pictures without a tripod or monopod is entirely possible (in part thanks to Pentax's SR system) but it is not a lens designed to be used handheld for long periods of time. A K-1 and 70-200mm combo weights approximately 3kg. A good strap which attaches to the lens tripod foot (not the camera) is recommended if the lens is to be carried without a tripod or monopod.

None of this will come as a surprise for photographers with experience using large lenses, but new users should be aware that this is not a lens one trows in the bag and forgets it is there. In fact, it will be too large for some bags, especially with the foot attached! It is a lens that one brings along with a specific purpose in mind. And when it is used, it delivers...

The position of the zoom ring might not be familiar with veteran users, but the natural position of the left hand when supporting the lens falls right on the ring. There is some free space both above and below the zoom ring to rest the hand if one prefers not to touch the ring. The lens balances well (considering the weight) but must, of course, be used with two hands. On a monopod, handling is superb and the notches in the tripod collar make swiveling the lens a breeze. The tripod foot is perfectly positioned near the center of mass with a camera attached.

The buttons placement is very intuitive, and after only a few minutes, they can be operated without looking. They give good feedback and click positively.

The focal length feels right at home on full frame, and a little cramped on APS-C. Attached to a K-3, it feels larger but still balances very well, becoming only a little front-heavy. 

In use, the lens feels responsive and fast. It never feels like it is slowing down the photographer. In short, apart from the size and weight, it is hard to find a fault with the Pentax 70-200mm.

In the following section we will report on the Tamron 70-200mm.


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