Pentax K-r review
The multi-featured K-r digital SLR camera features simple operation and a
host of creative tools in a compact, lightweight body that is exceptionally
comfortable to use and is easy to carry anywhere. Auto Picture, Scene, and
Custom Image Processing modes take the guesswork out of shooting stunning
images while still offering a high degree of manual and priority control.
The K-r offers a variety of features including a fast 6fps continuous
shooting frame rate, high ISO sensitivity, responsive autofocus, a 12.4
megapixel low-noise sensor and widescreen HD video capture that take it a
step above an entry-level DSLR camera. Colour Choices:
The K-r Incorporates a high sensitivity 12.4 megapixel CMOS sensor combined
with the high-performance PRIME II (PENTAX Real Image Engine) imaging
engine, producing high-quality images with fine details, rich gradation and
superb rendition, while suppressing digital noise to a minimum.
The high-precision, wide-frame SAFOX IX autofocus system with 11 sensor
points (with nine cross-type sensors positioned in the middle) assures
pinpoint focus on the subject. 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.
The PENTAX-developed SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism effectively compensates
the adverse effect of camera shake by as much as four shutter steps,
assuring sharp, blur-free images even under demanding shooting conditions.
This innovative mechanism is compatible with almost all existing PENTAX
interchangeable SLR lenses, both old and new.
High-speed continuous shooting mode records as many as 25 images (in JPEG
format) in a single sequence at a maximum speed of approximately six images
per second, allowing you to shoot sharp, crisp images of fast-moving
subjects with great ease.
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 0.85X magnification, with a 96% field of
view.
The K-r features a large,high-resolution 3-inch colour LCD monitor with
921,000 dots. Its wide-view design assures a clear view of the monitor
image from 170 degrees horizontally and vertically.
The K-r’s movie-recording function captures beautiful, true-to-life movie
clips in 16:9 high-definition TV proportions (at a frame rate of 25 frames
per second). The K-r also allows you to add specific visual effects during
shooting.
Innovative image-processing functions to produce distinctive photographic
expressions Custom image function The K-r offers a choice of nine custom
image modes, which allows you to easily select a desired finishing touch
for a particular image. Versatile digital filter function The digital
filter function allows you to process recorded images in a variety of
creative ways to produce highly creative visual expressions without the
need of a computer. You not only have a choice of 18 different filters, but
can also apply different filters one after another to a single image to
create more visual effects. Cross process modes The unique cross process
mode, in which the camera automatically shifts photographic parameters for
each exposure, creates eye-catching images with unique, dramatic colours -
just like pictures treated with the cross process in film photography.
Upgraded HDR (High Dynamic Range) function The HDR (high dynamic range)
function creates one composite image with an extra- wide gradation range
from three images with different exposures, without the need of a computer
application. Thanks to the introduction of Auto Align function, you can now
take advantage of this creative tool even with handheld shooting.
Custom image function The K-r offers a choice of nine custom image modes,
which allows you to easily select a desired finishing touch for a
particular image.
Versatile digital filter function The digital filter function allows you to
process recorded images in a variety of creative ways to produce highly
creative visual expressions without the need of a computer. You not only
have a choice of 18 different filters, but can also apply different filters
one after another to a single image to create more visual effects.
Cross process modes The unique cross process mode, in which the camera
automatically shifts photographic parameters for each exposure, creates
eye-catching images with unique, dramatic colours - just like pictures
treated with the cross process in film photography.
Upgraded HDR (High Dynamic Range) function The HDR (high dynamic range)
function creates one composite image with an extra- wide gradation range
from three images with different exposures, without the need of a computer
application. Thanks to the introduction of Auto Align function, you can now
take advantage of this creative tool even with handheld shooting.
In addition to the rechargeable Lithium-ion battery, which allows you to
capture approximately 560 images with a single recharge*, the K-r can also
be powered by 4 AA-size batteries using the optional AA Battery Holder
D-BH109, This versatile dual-power-source design removes worries about
unexpected battery shortage, especially when traveling. *Based on the
PENTAX in-house testing conditions conforming to the CIPA standards without
flash, using a rechargeable D-LI109 Lithium-Ion Battery
The K-r is equipped with a high-speed infrared data transmission system
(IrSimple™), allowing you to transfer image data to IrSimple-compatible
digital devices with great ease. As well, it offers a unique
camera-to-camera image comparison mode.