Pentax K-7 14.6 MP Digital SLR Review

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The Pentax K-7 features a rugged, yet compact new body design, a new 14.6 megapixel CMOS sensor rebuilt from the ground up, and advanced features such as HD Movie Capture and new, unique-to-Pentax camera controls. Compatible with every Pentax lens ever made, the high-end K-7 features an abundance of long-anticipated new and improved features that are exclusive to the camera and combine to make it a tremendous photography tool.

The most significant features of the Pentax K-7 that have never been offered before in any K series digital camera, and in some cases any camera, include:

• A compact, magnesium alloy body that is one of the smallest in the advanced photo enthusiast category to reduce bulk and allow users to travel light while maintaining durability and build quality (seven percent smaller than the K20D and up to 25 percent smaller than other cameras in the same class).
• A new 14.6 megapixel CMOS sensor rebuilt from the ground up to minimize noise, adds four channel output for fast image capture, and the ability to capture HD quality movies. It is the ideal combination of resolution and file size, allowing very large (poster size and larger) prints and cropping flexibility.
• A new 77-segment metering system quickly and accurately determines exposure for even the most complex and dynamic lighting situations.
• HD Movie capture features adjustable quality and resolution settings, aperture control, as well as mechanical Shake Reduction, and an external microphone terminal for recording stereo sound.* The K-7 will capture video at the default standard of 1280×720 resolution with a 16:9 aspect ratio (equivalent to 720p), 1536×1024 resolution with a 3:2 aspect ratio, or 640×416 resolution with a 3:2 aspect ratio (equivalent to VGA quality), all shot at 30 frames per second.
• An HDMI port with selectable output resolution (1080i, 720p, 480p, and auto) offers high resolution playback of images and video on modern high definition TV’s.
• A Dedicated AF-assist lamp further improves autofocus response and accuracy in low light conditions.
• An Electronic Level function ensures that images have truly level horizons to minimize post-capture editing.
• An innovative in-camera Lens Correction function that electronically adjusts for Distortion and Lateral Chromatic Aberrations to maximize image quality with DA series lenses.
• A dedicated Mirror Lock-up function eliminates image blur due to mirror movement during long exposures.
• A High Dynamic Range (HDR) image capture mode captures three images then combines them in camera to widen the exposure gamut to bring out detail in all exposure areas of images.
• A composition adjustment feature in Live View allows minor shifts in the framing and composition of images using the Shake Reduction mechanism without having to physically move the camera. This feature is ideal for tripod use.
• A programmable embedded copyright function preserves artistic integrity and image ownership during capture via a keypad that may record ownership in metatag data.

_{*Due to the compact size of the K-7 camera and the in-body Shake Reduction mechanism, a camera mounted microphone is a highly recommended accessory for optimal audio quality when capturing video.}

Pentax K7 Digital SLR Highlights

The K7’s magnesium alloy body is light, durable and weather-resistant

A durable, functional body, smaller than any other in its class
The K-7 is built exceptionally solid and durable with a chassis made of a highly rigid stainless-steel alloy and a housing made of a durable but lightweight magnesium-steel alloy. Construction includes 77 seals for weather, dust and cold-resistance for reliable operation even under harsh conditions and at temperatures as low as 14°F (-10°C). The camera also features a newly designed shutter unit providing a top shutter speed of 1/8000 second and the outstanding durability to withstand 100,000 shutter releases. Despite all these features, the K-7 is one of the most compact and functional photo enthusiast level models in the market.

High-quality image reproduction
The K-7 incorporates a newly developed CMOS image sensor measuring 23.4mm by 15.6mm and featuring a high-speed, four-channel image data readout. With approximately 14.6 effective megapixels, this image sensor more accurately produces fine-detailed, gradation-rich images. With the adverse effects of digital noise significantly reduced, the sensitivity may be increased from ISO 100 up to the highest level of ISO 6400 (via a custom function).

High-performance, high-speed PRIME II imaging engine
The K-7 features the newly developed PRIME (Pentax Real Image Engine) II, an upgrade of the original PRIME, as its imaging engine. This new imaging engine offers faster data-processing speed for higher quality images with richer gradation and more accurate color rendition. The system also offers high-speed movie data transmission.

A wealth of inputs–including HDMI–make it simple to share images and video captured on the K7

High-quality movie recording at 1280 x 720 pixels; 30-frames-per-second
The K-7 adds a new movie recording function, extending the benefits of SLR photography to the world of movie shooting: For instance, reduce the depth of field to make the subject stand out, or use different lenses to create distinctive visual effects. Beautiful movie clips can recorded at different sizes–640 x 416 pixels, 1536 x 1024 pixels, or 1280 x 720 pixels (16:9 high-definition TV proportions)–at a frame rate of 30 frames per second. The K-7 is also equipped with an HDMI terminal and an external microphone input terminal for high quality sound to match your videos.

Large, easy-to-view 3.0 inch wide-view LCD monitor with 921,000 dot resolution
The K-7 features a large 3.0 inch color LCD monitor with 921,000 dot resolution. The wide-view design allows the photographer to check the monitor image from approximately 170 degrees both vertically and horizontally, facilitating low and high-angle shooting using the Live View function.

High-speed continuous shooting at approx. 5.2 images per second
The high-speed continuous shooting mode captures as many as 40 images (in JPEG recording format) at a maximum speed of approximately 5.2 images per second, allowing photographers to follow the movement of an active subject or preserve a sequence of the subject’s expressions.

New 77-segment multi-pattern metering
Newly-developed for the K-7, a sophisticated 77-segment multi-pattern metering system greatly improves light-metering accuracy. By accurately analyzing various types of data (such as the image’s composition and format between upright and horizontal, and the subject’s distance and magnification) transmitted from the sensors in the camera body, this system greatly improves the accuracy of exposure control.

Live View image confirmation with Face Recognition AF and high-speed continuous shooting modes
The K-7 features the Live View function, which allows the user to view the image on the LCD monitor during shooting. This function is available not only in the Contrast AF mode, which optimizes the focus based on the subject’s contrast, but also in the Face Recognition AF mode, which automatically and accurately focuses on the subject’s face. A newly developed diaphragm-control mechanism allows the Live View function be used during Continuous Shooting mode with the mirror at lock-up position.

Optical viewfinder provides 100 percent field of view
The K-7 glass prism finder offers 100 percent field of view and an approximately 0.92X magnification to facilitate focusing and framing operations. A new Natural-Bright-Matte III focusing screen improves focusing accuracy during manual-focus operation.

3.0-inch LCD monitor with Live View

New 11-point wide-frame AF sensor
The K-7’s new SAFOX VIII Plus wide-frame autofocus system features 11 sensor points (with nine cross-type sensors positioned in the middle). By adding the light source type to its data range, and driven by a greatly improved algorithm, Pentax improved the AF system assuring reliable, responsive autofocus operation superior in speed and accuracy to the previous system. The K-7 also incorporates an AF-assist spotbeam projector in its built-in flash unit to improve autofocusing accuracy in the dark.

Next-generation Shake Reduction mechanism*
The K-7 features the Pentax-developed SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism, which effectively compensates the adverse effect of camera shake by approximately 2.5 to 4 shutter stops, assuring sharp, blur-free images even under demanding shooting conditions. This innovative mechanism is compatible with all Pentax interchangeable lenses ever produced. This new-generation version allows complete shift freedom, including rotationally, of the image-sensor regardless of the camera’s inclination. The mechanism also provides user-friendly new functions such as Automatic Level Adjustment and Minute Angle Adjustment (up/down, right/left and clockwise/counterclockwise) to help photographers compose images exactly to their specifications.
_{* Lenses compatible with this mechanism are the Pentax K-, KA-, KAF-, KAF2- and KAF3-mount lenses; screw-mounted lenses (with an adapter); and 645- and 67-system lenses (with an adapter). Some functions may not be available with certain lenses.}

New DR II mechanism to minimize dust spots
The K-7 is equipped with a newly developed Dust Removal (DR II) mechanism to more effectively remove dust and minimize spots on recorded images even after changing lenses in dust-prone outdoor settings. Using a piezo-ceramic vibration action, the system shifts or vibrates the low-pass filter located in front of the CMOS image sensor at supersonic speed to remove dust more efficiently. A unique dust-alert system also allows users to check for dust adhering to the low-pass filter prior to actual shooting.

Custom Image function to easily create desired visual effects
The K-7’s Custom Image function lets the user control the image’s finishing touch to capture their photographic intention, or reproduce the ambience of the scene. With the K-7, the user can select one of seven modes, including the new “Muted” mode designed to recreate an image with delicate, subdued colors. In addition to saturation, tone, contrast and sharpness, the function now makes it possible to adjust “key” and “contrast highlight/shadow” to the desired levels. The effects of these factors may be effortlessly confirmed on a preview image using the Digital Preview or Live View function before finalizing the settings.

Versatile exposure system for exceptional reproduction of creative intentions

Hyper Program function
The K-7’s Hyper Program function allows users to instantly switch to the Shutter- or Aperture-Priority AE mode from the Programmed AE mode, with a simple turn of the electronic dials on the grip. To return to the Programmed AE mode, simply press the green button positioned next to the shutter release button.

Hyper Manual function
When shooting in Manual mode, a single push of the green button allows the user to instantly set the proper exposure for the subject.

Sensitivity-Priority mode
The K-7 features a unique Sensitivity-Priority (Sv) mode, which is designed to automatically select the optimum combination of aperture and shutter speed for a user-selected sensitivity. The sensitivity can be shifted instantly in 1/2 or 1/3 steps by turning the electronic dial on the back panel.

Shutter/Aperture-Priority mode
Taking full advantage of the unique capability of digital cameras permitting automatic shift of sensitivity at any time, the Shutter/Aperture-Priority (TAv) mode automatically selects the most appropriate sensitivity for a user-selected shutter-speed/aperture combination. This allows the user to experiment with a greater range of photographic expressions with great ease.

Powerful rechargeable battery The K-7 is powered by a large-capacity, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which can capture approximately 980 images* when fully charged.
_{*Under testing conditions prescribed by Pentax, when using a rechargeable D-LI90 lithium-ion battery with no flash}

Additional features:

• HDR (high dynamic range) function to create one composite image with an extra-wide gradation range from three images with different exposures
• Dynamic-range expansion function to compensate for both white-washed (overexposed) and blacked-out (underexposed) areas
• Digital level function for easy checking of the image’s levels
• Automatic compensation of distortion and lateral chromatic aberration (available only with DA- and DFA-series lenses)
• White balance control, featuring a new CTE mode to emphasize the color components of sunset scenes and a new incandescent-tinted fluorescent light mode
• Multi-exposure function, with a superimposition of already-recorded images on the LCD monitor for at-a-glance comparison
• Attachment of copyright credits on recorded images
• RAW button for single-action switching of image file format
• 16 digital filters to add a range of visual effects; a new function to record an overwritten history also available
• Color-specific control buttons/dials for easy recognition and quick access, based on the universal color design
• Pentax Digital Camera Utility 4 software package, including a RAW-data processing application (based on the popular
• SILKYPIX RAW-data processing engine developed by Ichikawa Soft Laboratory) and a browser application

Product Description
The Pentax K-7 has been developed as a high-end model of the PENTAX K digital SLR camera series. True to its series concept, it was designed not only to assure outstanding image quality, but also to provide exceptional ease and comfort of operation and the utmost satisfaction to photo enthusiasts of all levels, including advanced amateurs. The new K-7 has arrived. Faster and more durable than ever before, the compact, 14.6 MP K-7 truly is the most powerful PENTAX ever. Protected by a durable, high-quality metallic body, but the K-7 is designed to be extremely compact and functional – just like all other K-series models – for enhanced portability and maneuverability. In addition, it has added several user-friendly features, including video recording, high dynamic range (HDR), and automatic horizon correction. All of these make the K-7 a tremendous photographic tool, perfect for all discerning digital SLR photographers. High shutter speed – top shutter speed of 1/8000 sec freezes even the fastest action and gives creative control over apertures in well-lit settings New 77-segment metering system quickly and accurately determines exposure in the most complex & dynamic situations Live View mode – With contrast AF, Face Detection, and optional histogram, grid, and bright/dark area display 100% field-of-view viewfinder (with 0.92X magnification) Widescreen HD Movie Capture – With adjustable quality, aperture control, Shake Reduction and external microphone terminal for recording stereo sound (up to 1280×720p30) High resolution playback – HDMI port with selectable output resolution (1080i, 720p, 480p, and auto) Faster, more responsive AF – 11-point autofocus system Shake Reduction system – Now compensates for rotational sensor movement Dust Reduction system – Dust-free image capture Dynamic Range function – With highlight and adjustable shadow correction HDR image capture mode – Blends three separate

Tags: Digital camera, High dynamic range imaging, Liquid crystal display, Live View, Pentax K-7, Photography, Shake Reduction, Shutter speed

Don’t Go Wrong with Choosing a Digital Camera

With the entry of digital cameras, photography has never been so exciting.

Today, there are varieties of digital cameras to choose from already. You can find them in any department store or you can browse and buy them over at the Internet. Different digital cameras offer different features and capabilities. This is the why choosing one is getting more and more difficult. Once you see what each have to offer, you will obviously have a hard time deciding which one to buy.

One of the usual mistakes that people commit when buying their own digital camera is to be enticed by what the advertising mediums have to say about them. By the time they own that camera, they will realize that they are not as good as they first thought they are. It would then be too late to return it and opt for another kind.

Keep in mind that getting a digital camera should take a lot of consideration. Just like buying a car, you have to consider all aspects since this is one thing that you want to work well and would want to have for a long time.

Before you buy your digital camera, study these points below to aid you in choosing the best option for you?

1. The cost

Ok, so you wanted the latest Sony digital camera out in the market. But are you ready to shed the needed amount of money for it?

Cost is a big factor when buying digital camera. It is obvious that the best camera comes with a price. And your budget may not exactly encompass its high cost.

This is not saying that cheap ones are not as good. There are those that you can get for a reasonable price and still works just as well as an expensive one. You need to shop around for the best deal first before you decide on one. Better yet, you can save up on that expensive camera that you wanted all along.

2. The purpose

Will you be using the camera for family affairs alone, or are you planning to shoot some good photos worthy to a professional?

By knowing what use your digital camera will have, it would be easier to determine the type of digital camera to buy. If you buy a simple one that can be used at home, you will not get the capabilities that you need if you plan on taking really good photographic pictures. On the other hand, it would be a waste of your money if you have the latest digital camera only to be used for personal photos at home. Let’s take the case of buying a digital camera for kids. In this case, you want to get something that is perfect for them like the fisher price digital camera, a perfect solution for kids and digital cameras.

The price of digital cameras makes you want to make sure that you buy only the most durable and long-lasting brand. You need a digital camera that can withstand use and abuse.

If you bought an ordinary digital camera, it’s best to buy protective accessories to prolong its useful life even more. It is best, however, to get one that is known to have a good quality and durability.

Get the best value out of your money for a digital photography camera. Think hard about these important factors first so you will get it right the first time.

Tags: Camera, cost, digital, fisherprice, Photography

Nikon D700 Best Price

The nikon d700 has been rumored to have a 12 megapixel sensor instead of a beefier one, and D-SLR is designed for the future without ignoring the past. It has improvements over the D300 which are Image Sensor cleaning, hard button programming is more flexible, Live View virtual horizon and several DX mode indication into the focusing screen. It is slowly getting into the hands of most amateur users, and is a fusion of astonishing image quality and agility. The nikon d700 has a more compact design than the D3, and also features the same integrated dust reduction system as the D300 model.

The nikon d700 features a sensing area of 36.0 x 23.9mm, a high sensitivity range of ISO 200-6400, the Nikon 51-point AF system, Scene Recognition, auto exposure and auto white balance detection, as well as continuous shooting up to 5fps (or up to 8fps when using the optional Multi-Power Battery Pack MB-D10). It Digital SLR is designed for the serious photographer, offering 12 megapixels in a full-frame (FX) format, and incorporating many of the crowd-pleasing features of the popular D3 and D300 digital SLR cameras, and was a blend of the best features of the D3 and of the D300.

Other Reference On Nikon D700

Nikon D700 - To write images efficiently, the Nikon D700 is also compliant with the next-generation of high-speed UDMA CompactFlash cards that will enable recording speeds up to 35 megabytes/second. The D700 offers one of the fastest and most … Nikon D700 Hands-On Review – The Second Coming - The Nikon D700 is a DSLR that defies conventional DSLR categorization, with Nikon’s D3 FX full frame sensor built into the rugged, compact body of the Nikon D300, it’s range of features will appeal to professionals and serious amateurs … Nikon D700 - Nikon’s latest full-frame D700 camera brings together the full-frame sensor from Nikon’s top-of-the-range D3 in a body similar to the D300. So does this combination make it the perfect semi-professional D-SLR? …

Nikon D700 Hands On Video Review :

Nikon D700

Katie of Megawhat.tv gets a first look at the latest FX model in the Nikon line up.

Video of Nikon D700 Photo Shoot for Hands-on Review

A short clip documenting the photo shoot for our Hands-on Review of the Nikon D700 with the sexy model, S. Ling.

Nikon D700

Introduction from Nikon France

Nikon D700 Best Price :

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Tags: Arts, Camera, Digital single-lens reflex camera, Equipment and Services, Nikon, Nikon D3, Nikon D300, Nikon D700, Photography