Manufacturer's Description The Pentax K-r DSLR CameraThe PENTAX K-r ’s features range from high-quality image reproduction with 12.4 effective megapixels and HDTV-proportion movie recording, to high-speed continuous shooting at six images per second, super-high-sensitivity shooting at ISO 25600 (via a custom function) and a large, easy-to-view 3.0-inch high-resolution color LCD monitor. Its dual-power-source design offers a choice between the standard rechargeable lithium-ion battery and a set of AA-size batteries (via adaptor purchased separately) it also offers a greater selection of digital filters for effortless production of original, creative artwork. All combined, the K-r boosts outstanding performance and versatility, almost the equivalent of upper-class digital SLR cameras, while allowing the photographer to easily deal with different photographic requirements and to accommodate individual shooting styles. It is also compatible with the IrSimple™ high-speed infrared data transmission system, enabling for instance the wireless data transfer to one blog via a cellular phone or a swift image data exchange between two PENTAX K-r’s. Totally new capabilities in a digital SLR camera, these features make the K-r a unique, new-generation communications tool. Compact, Lightweight Body High-quality, true-to-life image reproductionThe K-r incorporates a new-generation CMOS image sensor with 12.4 effective megapixels to assure high-speed image data readout. It also features the high-performance PRIME (PENTAX Real Image Engine) II imaging engine to ensure accurate and high-speed data processing equal to that of upper-level models. As the result, the K-r produces high-quality images with fine detail, rich gradation and superb rendition, while suppressing annoying digital noise to a minimum. The K-r also offers a wide sensitivity range between ISO 200 and ISO 12800; this range can be expanded from ISO 100 to ISO 25600 via a custom function. 3.0-inch LCD monitor Compact, lightweight bodyDespite the incorporation of the large 23.6mm x 15.8mm image sensor, the K-r sports a compact, lightweight body, thanks to a trim, lightweight stainless-steel chassis, a downsized in-body shake reduction mechanism, and state-of-the-art, high-density packaging technologies that assure space-efficient positioning and layout of the camera components.High-speed continuous shooting at six images per secondThe K-r's high-speed continuous shooting mode records as many as 25 images (in JPEG recording format) in a single sequence at a maximum speed of six images per second - the fastest of all entry-class models - allowing the photographer to preserve sharp, crisp images of fast-moving subjects with great ease.High-precision AF systemThe K-r's high-precision, wide-frame SAFOX IX autofocus system features 11 sensor points (with nine cross-type sensors positioned in the middle) to assure pinpoint focus on the subject. The K-r is also equipped with a spotbeam projector to assist the AF system in poorly lit locations. The accuracy and speed of contrast AF operation during Live View shooting has also been enhanced by the incorporation of a new-generation image sensor and drastic upgrading of AF algorithms. Dual-Power Source Design Bright, clear optical viewfinder Thanks to the combination of PENTAX-original finder optics and the renowned Natural-Bright-Matte focusing screen, the K-r’s viewfinder offers a bright, clear subject image at 0.85 X magnifications and with a 96% field of view. Since it assures excellent visibility even in bright outdoor locations and provides delay-free, real-time display of the subject’s image, it is especially helpful in shooting where the timing of shutter release is critical, such as sports photography. The in-focus point is indicated as a red point in the viewfinder for at-a-glance confirmation.Large, easy-to-view 3.0-inch LCD monitor The K-r features a large, high-resolution color LCD monitor with 921,000 dots. Its wide-view design assures a clear view of the monitor image from 170 degrees horizontally and vertically, making it particularly useful in low- and high-angle applications during Live View shooting.Versatile dual-power-source designIn addition to the standard rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which allows the photographer to capture 560 images with a single recharge, the K-r can also be powered by four AA-size batteries using optional AA Battery Holder D-BH109. Since these world-standard batteries are available almost anywhere, it removes worries about unexpected battery shortage, especially on the road.PENTAX-original SR mechanism for sharp, blur-free imagesThe K-r features the PENTAX-developed SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism, which effectively compensates the adverse effect of camera shake by up to four shutter steps. This innovative mechanism extends its benefits to almost all PENTAX interchangeable lenses - even those designed for film-format cameras. Thanks to this user-friendly mechanism, the K-r produces sharp, blur-free images even under demanding conditions prone to camera shake, such as when using a telephoto lens, shooting in the dark without flash illumination, and taking pictures of sunset scenes. Lenses compatible with this mechanism: 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. Versatile digital filter functionThe K-r’s digital filter function allows the user to process recorded images in a variety of creative ways and produce highly creative visual expressions - without the need of a computer. The user not only has a choice of 18 different filters, including the newly added Starburst and Sketch, but can also apply different filters one after another to a single image to create more inventive visual effects.Cross process mode with three optionsThe K-r features the unique cross process mode, in which the camera automatically shifts photographic parameters for each exposure to create eye-catching images with unique, dramatic colours - just like pictures treated with the cross process* in film photography. In addition to “Random”, where the results are unpredictable until the image has been processed, the user also has two other options: “Preset”, with three different sets of preset parameters; and “Favorite”, with user-input parameters.* A film development technique that uses unconventional film development to create a distinctive finish with dramatic, stylised colours.Upgraded HDR (High Dynamic Range) functionThe K-r features the HDR (high dynamic range) function to create one composite image with an extra-wide gradation range from three images with different exposures, without the need of a computer application. It offers a choice of auto, standard and expanded (at three levels) modes to accommodate different creative intentions. Thanks to the introduction of Auto Align function, the user can now take advantage of this creative tool even with handheld shooting.High-speed infrared data transmission systemThe K-r is the first PENTAX digital SLR camera equipped with the IrSimple™ high-speed infrared data transmission system. Since this system allows the user to transfer image data to IrSimple-compatible digital devices with great ease, users can effortlessly post images taken with the K-r on their own blogs via a cellular phone. This system also makes the K-r a brand-new photo communication tool, as it also allows users to exchange their image data using a pair of K-r, and even let them engage in a simple match game using Exif data attached to the images such as aperture or shutter-speed values.High-quality, HDTV-proportion movie recordingThe K-r provides a movie-recording function, which captures beautiful, true-to-life movie clips in 16:9 high-definition TV proportions (1280 x 720 pixels) at a frame rate of 25 frames per second. This extends many benefits of high-quality SLR photography to the world of movie shooting: For instance, reduce the depth of field to make a subject stand out, or use different interchangeable lenses to create distinctive visual effects. The K-r also assures a greater possibility of visual presentation in movies — either through the application of digital filters, such as Toy Camera and Retro, to add specific visual effects during shooting, or through the use of various movie-editing functions after shooting.
S**H
great camera, disappointing software
This is my first DSLR camera and I deliberated carefully about which to buy, eventually choosing the Pentax K-r. It does everything you would expect, the viewfinder is great and the kit lens is excellent. Besides producing great quality images, it feels good, being somewhat less bulky than comparable Nikons and Canons. I am delighted with it. The only downside is that the 'Utility4' software which comes with it simply does not work on my pc. I have contacted Pentax for tech support but have received absolutely nil response, hence the 4 stars rather than 5.
M**I
Good camera for advanced photographers. This camera is underrated!!!
This camera its perfect for my. Menu very friendly. Easy to access and understood with visual settings to chose for example own withe balance .Good point. In camera You have photo editing programme. The same quality like Nikon and Canon. Very recommended!
M**Z
If the autofocus worked properly would be a great camera
Bought a K-r about 10 months ago from a well know high street seller.Everything was great to start with, very pleased overall. I had a K-x prior to this and that was pretty good (bar the mirror slap problem)Nicer grip then the K-x, added a bigger buffer few more fps. Not much not to like and a good price too.All the basic stuff covered mirror lock up, p shift, dof preview, wireless flash. Hard to complain for the price you get a lot for your money.Until I started shooting under energy saving bulbs, then the problems started and they were pretty huge. Lots of front focus one event I attended almost a 100% fail rate on the AF every shot was front focus and well beyond the adjustment offered in camera. Shocked by this I tried to dismiss it as my fault or poor lighting etc. I then shot some portraits under mixed lighting and all my shots were out, again front focus across all the lenses I had.I suspected something was surely wrong so I contacted Pentax support. They confirmed the issue was the light temperature which cause the autofocus some serious problems, and stated that there was no current solution for this problem. Amazed at this I continued to make phone calls and write letters to find out exactly how to get my camera fixed. Support rang me ( give them credit for that), and suggested I write a letter to Pentax UK which I did and emailed that on to them.I never heard back from Pentax again, other than an email to say that there was a firmware update being worked on to solve the problem. Fast forward to the later half of 2012, and that firmware fix never arrived. Posted a letter to Pentax Japan asking for help, I got no response from them either. In the end because the camera was basically unusable in low kelvin light for autofocus (you can use live view or manual focus) I got a refund from the camera shop. I have to say that any company that ignores a customers letter has very serious customer support problems and it speaks volumes about how little Pentax value their customersThe front focus problem is well discussed on forums, and sadly it's true. This ruins what is a great bargain of a camera. And it's amazing that Pentax could have such awful customer support and effectively leave K-r customers with a faulty product. I never bought another Pentax after this.Be very cautious if you shoot in available light as they have not sorted this problem out. It shows up in tungsten, energy saving bulbs around 3500k and below, even with the max AF adjustment in camera it could not correct the problem. The only work around is to use live view AF, which is contrast based and obviously slower than phase detect
L**E
Christmas present
Bought this for my husband as a Christmas present, he has a Pentax M E super ....film camera and wanted a digital SLR and that would take the lens from the ME super, which this on does.
J**S
Focus issues in artificial light and problems with external flash
Many of the reviews for this camera are ultra positive but I find myself agreeing with the review by Mr Baz, who complains about the front focussing in artificial light, it is a genuine problem and discussed extensively on the forums. I use the liveview to work around this and thankfully because this tends to happen in lowlight it generally can be worked around. I have checked the forums and it seems Pentax have produced a model that behaves entirely differently from every model before and after.I have also had issues with a dedicated external flash where 'program' and aperture priority exposure modes seem to render the camera blind to the fact a flash is connected with the results that the subject is horribly overexposed when the flash goes off. Switch to manual or shutter priority to overcome this.I personally will give a three star review because once you understand how to work around the faults the camera is capable of some excellent quality.I have a soft spot for Pentax and will probably continue with their system, but I will research the forums before buying in future
M**9
5 months on and still loving it
I've had my Pentax K-r for about 5 months now, use it every weekend, and many evenings too. I was pointed in this direction by the guy at our local camera shop as being better value for money than the bigger brands and I took his word for it. It did seem better made, it feels good in the hand and, with just the kit lens I've come up with better shots than I ever hoped for. I've just got a Sigma 70-210mm lens for it, which arrived today, so haven't tried that yet.Positives: Easy to use, good size LCD screen (if you want to use it), fast frame rate, fast focussing, Build quality.Negatives: Sometimes slightly noisy, fewer budget lenses available (it seems to me, anyway)On the whole, a very good buy, that is a step up from the budget SLRs, without breaking the bank.
Trustpilot
2 months ago
3 weeks ago
