Hi All

Pentax are launching some new lenses shortly.

DA 300mm/f4; a DA 200mm/f2.8 and a 60-250mm/f4

The latest offerings from Pentax, the K200D and K20D, DSLRs featuring stainless-steel chassis surrounded by polycarbonate body panels, just might be the only weatherproof-rated DSLRs featuring pop-up flashes. This is noteworthy because pop-up flashes are popular ports-of-entry for moisture and dust on the average camera

The Pentax K20D (14.6Mp) contains 72 weather-resisting gaskets to keeps out the elements, and the K20D's optional battery grip contains an additional 38 seals. The K20D's sibling, the Pentax K200D (10.2Mp) contains 60 protective gaskets in the camera body, and 14 seals lining its optional battery grip.

Both cameras also feature nanotechnology-based fluorine coatings on the low-pass filter as well as 'sensor shake' each time you power up the camera to prevent dust from marring your picture files. There's also a Dust Alert feature that lets you know when stubborn dust particles refuse to shake loose


Shooting with Weather Seals

Professional DSLRs, like the ones outlined in the 'Tough Gear' article in this very newsletter , are built like tanks and have weather sealing. These seals insulate the delicate parts of a camera from the elements; they'll allow you to shoot in the rain, snow, dust, and sand. If you're the type to get sticker shock when you look at the prices associated with these high-end bodies, fear not – there is an entry-level camera that is protected from dust, rain, and other natural phenomena.

The Pentax K200D features practical weather sealing at a modest price. Dust-proof and water-resistant seals are present in every button and switch on the body. The camera features a 10.2MP APS-C sensor, in-body shake reduction, and a large 2.7" LCD. It uses four AA batteries for power, making it a great choice for international travel.


There is also the K20D, which can best be described as the K200D's big brother. Featuring the same basic features, weather sealing, a slightly larger body, and more on-body controls, the K20D is the current top-of-the-line camera from Pentax. It is built around a 14.6MP APS-C CMOS sensor, which is the highest resolution APS-C format sensor available. The K20D is powered by a rechargeable Li-Ion battery, and features a Live View LCD screen.

The K200D is available as a body-only, or with an 18-55mm kit lens. The K20D is only available as a body-only. Each has its own optional grip , also weather-sealed. The kit lens does not feature weather sealing, so if you are looking to take the camera into the elements, consider pairing it with a lens from the Pentax DA* line.

All of the DA* lenses feature internal focus motors, but can also be used on older Pentax bodies that utilize and autofocus screw drive system. Following in the tradition of the acclaimed, but now retired, FA* series, the lenses feature exceptional build-quality and optics.


You can currently choose from the DA* 16-50mm f/2.8, the DA* 50-135mm f/2.8 , or the DA* 200mm f/2.8. Two more lenses are on the way: The DA* 300mm f/4 is due in the near future, with a DA* 60-250mm f/4 due sometime this summer.

Just thought I should include this article as those of us who have posted photo's are Pentaz users.

regards

Birdcrazy

Hi Kevin

Thanks for posting this article. I'm sure some of the Pentax users will appreciate it.