Pentax 645D review
The PENTAX 645D incorporates a high-performance 40 effective megapixel CCD
image sensor, measuring 44mm by 33mm. It assures a wide dynamic range to
faithfully reproduce the prevailing ambience and the sense of depth in
super-high-resolution images that are rich in gradation and truthful in
texture description.
Thanks to its high-speed data-processing capacity and new algorithm
exclusively programmed for medium-format digital SLR cameras, the
PENTAX-original PRIME (PENTAX Real Image Engine) II imaging engine produces
super-high-quality images rich in gradation and faithful in colour
reproduction, while allowing speedy data transmission of large-volume image
data.
The high-performance 14-bit A/D converter faithfully converts the large
volume of analog image data output by the large CCD image sensor to digital
signals carrying an extensive amount of image data, including resolution
and gradation.
The sophisticated wide-frame SAFOX IX+ autofocus system with 11 sensor
points (with nine cross-type sensors positioned in the middle) assures the
extra-high-precision focusing demanded of medium-format digital SLR
cameras.
77-segment multi-pattern metering system assures super-high-accuracy light
metering. The exposure accuracy is further enhanced by the collection of
additional data such as image orientation (horizontal or vertical) and the
distance to and magnification of the subject using the sensors installed
inside the camera body, with the obtained data incorporated into exposure
calculations.
Versatile, multi-mode exposure system for faithful reproduction of creative
intentions Hyper Program function The PENTAX 645D’s Hyper Program
function allows the photographer to instantly switch from Programmed AE
mode to Shutter- or Aperture-Priority AE mode with a simple turn of the
electric dials positioned around the grip. Hyper Manual function When
shooting in the Metered Manual mode, the PENTAX 645D’s Hyper Manual mode
lets you instantly set the proper exposure for the subject with a single
push of the green button. Sensitivity-Priority mode The unique
Sensitivity-Priority (Sv) mode automatically selects the optimum
combination of aperture and shutter speed for the user-selected
sensitivity. The sensitivity can be shifted swiftly by electronic dial on
the back panel. Shutter/Aperture-Priority mode Taking full advantage of the
unique capability of digital cameras for the automatic shifting of
sensitivity at any time, the Shutter/Aperture-Priority (TAv) mode
automatically selects the most appropriate sensitivity for the
user-selected aperture/shutter-speed combination.
Hyper Program function The PENTAX 645D’s Hyper Program function allows
the photographer to instantly switch from Programmed AE mode to Shutter- or
Aperture-Priority AE mode with a simple turn of the electric dials
positioned around the grip.
Hyper Manual function When shooting in the Metered Manual mode, the PENTAX
645D’s Hyper Manual mode lets you instantly set the proper exposure for
the subject with a single push of the green button.
Sensitivity-Priority mode The unique Sensitivity-Priority (Sv) mode
automatically selects the optimum combination of aperture and shutter speed
for the user-selected sensitivity. The sensitivity can be shifted swiftly
by electronic dial on the back panel.
Shutter/Aperture-Priority mode Taking full advantage of the unique
capability of digital cameras for the automatic shifting of sensitivity at
any time, the Shutter/Aperture-Priority (TAv) mode automatically selects
the most appropriate sensitivity for the user-selected
aperture/shutter-speed combination.
The PENTAX 645D’s main frame is made of strong but lightweight
magnesium-steel alloy. The chassis is made of diecast aluminum to minimize
the expansion and extension caused by heat as well as to optimize kinematic
accuracy and thermal stability. The LCD panels are covered with tempered
glass plates for added protection. Thanks to the inclusion of 70 special
seals in the body, it also boasts a dustproof, weather-resistant and
cold-resistant construction, assuring reliable operation, even in harsh
environments and at temperatures as low as -10°C.
Dual slot SD/SDHC memory card support ensures fast and reliable storage for
high resolution image files, simultaneously saving in multiple formats,
assigning images to different cards based on their original format, or
easily holding one memory card in reserve. The settings for each memory
card slot can be easily made by dedicated button.
All-glass, trapezoid pentaprism viewfinder with interchangeable focusing
screens offers a 98% field of view viewing angle for accurate framing
applications.
Large, 3 inch LCD screen, with anti-reflective coating and reinforced glass
surface, features 921,000 dots of resolution, wide angle viewing, and 32X
image review magnification for easy on-camera image proofing.
Custom Image function allows you to easily control an image’s finishing
touches to more precisely reflect their creative intentions, or to more
faithfully reproduce the ambience of the scene.
An in-camera HDR image capture function blends 3 consecutive frames of
varying exposures into a single, perfectly blended image, maximizing detail
within all tonal ranges.
Versatile white-balance control system, including the CTE mode designed to
emphasize the dominant colour components of the captured images, which
works especially well with such scenes as sunset.
Lens Correction function automatically compensates for lateral chromatic
aberration, as well as barrel and spool distortion common to wide angle
lens photography, with select PENTAX 645 lenses.
A Digital Level function displays the vertical and horizontal inclination
of the camera, ensuring captured photos remain level to the horizon.
Powered by a large-capacity, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which can
capture approximately 800 images* when fully charged. *Under testing
conditions prescribed by PENTAX, when using a rechargeable D-LI90
lithium-ion battery with no flash.