New Camera Boasts Variety of Technological Firsts and Major Improvements
Over Previous K Series Cameras
GOLDEN, CO. (May 20, 2009) PENTAX Imaging Company announced today the launch of the PENTAX K-7 digital SLR camera. This latest PENTAX K series camera is designed for advanced photographers seeking high-end design and features without the cost of a professional DSLR system. 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 K-7 will appeal to many current PENTAX SLR photographers who have been asking for more advanced features, but in a smaller, solid, comfortable-to-hold body,” said Ned Bunnell, president, PENTAX Imaging Company. “We also believe the combination of the K-7′s smaller, high quality construction coupled with the growing line-up of our Limited compact prime lenses will appeal to serious shooters who currently don’t own or previously hadn’t considered adding a PENTAX to their camera bag.”
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.
A variety of K series camera features that are significantly improved in the PENTAX K-7 include:
- A striking 3 inch LCD with 921,000 dot resolution is perfect for detailed image or movie capture and review using the Live View function.
- A weather, dust and cold resistant (to 14° F or -10° C) body makes the K-7 the perfect camera for use in any environment, inside the studio or when travelling in any weather.
- Fast 5.2 frame-per-second shooting with a new PRIME II Image processing engine, which features fast circuitry and 4 channel output that is ideal for sporting events or any fast action situation.
- A top shutter speed of 1/8000 sec freezes even the fastest action in well lit settings.
- Live View mode, now with contrast AF, Face Detection, and optional histogram, grid, and bright/dark area display, allows you to quickly compose your images without having your eye against the viewfinder.
- A 100 percent field-of-view viewfinder (92X magnification) and bright focusing screen are ideal for accurate image composition and accurate focus.
- The PENTAX 11-point autofocus system features improved focus algorithms over previous generation K series DSLR cameras, providing faster, more responsive AF.
- The PENTAX-original Shake Reduction system now compensates for rotational sensor movement improving the sharpness of your images at the moment of capture.
- The K-7′s Dust Reduction system, improved over previous K series cameras, features a piezo-ceramic vibration action to the sensor’s low-pass filter for dust-fee image capture.
- A new high capacity battery features extended battery life, ideal for travel photography or video work.
- Advanced image capture settings, digital filters, and aspect ratio provide outstanding flexibility and creativity while minimizing the need for computer image manipulation.
- Custom Image modes with advanced parameter settings including new Key adjustment allow users to customize the processing mode to suit personal creative style.
Other K series innovations featured on the PENTAX K-7 include:
- Multiple exposure settings, including Green, Program, Sv, Tv, Av, TAv, M, Bulb, X-sync, and USER modes, provide extensive creative control over the exposure for photographers of all experience levels.
- Advanced white balance settings include highly customizable white balance fine tuning, color temperature adjustment, and post image capture manual white balance selection for perfect pictures in even the most difficult lighting.
- Dynamic Range setting with adjustable shadow correction brings out hidden or lost details in both highlights and shadows for even the highest-contrast, dynamic lighting.
- Dedicated PC socket for studio flash offers convenience for the studio photographer without adding hot shoe adapters.
- Advanced capture options include multi-exposure and interval shooting for creative special effects and time-lapse photography.
Along with the body, PENTAX announced a D-BG4 battery grip for exclusive use with the PENTAX K-7. This battery grip may be used in combination with the camera’s rechargeable lithium-ion battery to double camera’s battery life. The D-BG4 also accepts 6 AA batteries in a alternate battery tray for added freedom when shooting in the field. With a vertical shutter-release button, e-dials, AE-lock and a new focus button, the grip features the same weather-resistance, dustproof and coldproof construction as the PENTAX K-7.
PENTAX also announced two weather-resistant lens models developed specifically for PENTAX digital SLRs. The smc DA 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 AL WR and the smc DA 50-200mm F4-5.6 ED WR kit lenses feature weather-resistant seals to handle damp, inclement conditions. Complementing K series camera bodies, both lenses blend versatility with affordability, giving the casual photographer a broader canvas without having to carry a multitude of lenses.
The PENTAX K-7 body only will ship in July 2009 for $1,299.95 USD. The PENTAX D-BG4 battery grip also will ship in July 2009 for $229.95. The newest weather-resistant lenses will be priced at $199.95 for the DA 18-55mm and $249.95 for the DA 50-200mm. These products also will ship in July 2009.
Every PENTAX K-7 purchased includes an exclusive coupon for up to 15 percent savings on a variety of PENTAX products. More information about all of these products is available at: www.pentaximaging.com and preorders may be placed now at www.pentaxwebstore.com.
Enjoy a preview of the PENTAX K-7 and the advanced features the camera offers on the PENTAX youtube.com channel httpv://www.youtube.com/pentaxian1. Images are available here: http://www.pentaximaging.com/press/pressfiles.html. Professional photographers interested in equipment loans may learn more about the PENTAX Pro Program by calling 1-800-877-0155.
PENTAX Imaging Company is an innovative leader in the production of a variety of digital cameras including weather resistant digital SLRs and compact, waterproof cameras, as well as lenses, flash units, binoculars, scopes, and eyepieces. For almost 90 years, PENTAX has developed durable, reliable products that meet the needs of consumers and businesses. With headquarters in Golden, Colorado, PENTAX Imaging Company is a division of PENTAX of America, Inc.
Official Pentax K7 Fact Sheet
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This camera looks awesome. My only regret is that it does not feature a full frame sensor.
Yay!
Tough competition for Canon and Nikon!
Thanks for the comment, Amy. Why are you concerned about full frame? What are you shooting with now? Personally, I think full frame is over-hyped and unnecessary for most photographers. Sure, it has its benefits. But if the K7 fits your needs and has good image quality, why worry about whether or not it has a full frame sensor?
“A Dedicated AF-assist lamp further improves autofocus response and accuracy in low light conditions. ”
Finally! What i’ve been waiting for. Usually on friends’ gatherings i usually dont bring a flash coz i find it cumbersome and too unstable placing it among the beers on the table. The very first reason why i got rid of my canon system in favor of Nikon. If you’re having fun – you don’t go about worrying about mounting and unmounting the flash.
Pentax people – am also waiting for the tiltable LCD. If you can do that this year – before the d400 shows up – i might be tempted to divert the budget for a secondary system again. Canon is too engrossed with their sensor making ability that they forgot all about the other aspects of the camera and the innovations thereof.
Great camera Pentax.
“Canon is too engrossed with their sensor making ability that they forgot all about the other aspects of the camera and the innovations thereof.”
Funny – and you might be right. Although at the moment think Nikon is the sensor leader. I’ve been using the Olympus DSLRs with tilt/swivel LCDs for a while and I love them. It’s gotten so I hate not having a tilt/swivel LCD. It really is a no-brainer, big benefit feature.
How many of you would pay twice the price for a FF version of the K-7 like the Canon 5D Mark II ? I pre-ordered the K-7 and don’t mind that it’s not FF. BTW I still have the Pentax 67 system.
I own ist D, K10D, K20D, FF never has been an issue to being published. The K20D I loved with one exception the lack of frame per second for sports work. I am salivating for the K-7 though with economy I need to wait unitl the end of the year to get it. might need to be my Xmas present
Have been a happy K20d avec da* lens for over a year – the main reason was ergonomics and IQ if the K7d retains the same high level of comfort with decent sized glass may need to upgrade.
Although fps is not a major concern focusing speed particularly in low light is the only thing i am a little (only little) dissappointed with can’t wait to suss it out in Australia!
Focus speed and accuracy is one of my main concerns too, Michael. Pentax did say that the K7 has an improved auto focus system and I am looking forward to seeing how it measures up to the competition.
I absolutely love my K10 and have taken it places I wouldn’t dare take other brands. Slightly smaller should be a real advantage and the option of not having to cary around my Sony HDR-SR11 as much will be a real life saver.
i was about to purchase a K20d but was put off by the lower resolution of the screen (320k dots?) compared to the D90 and 50D. i held off because i have a MZ-5N with 2 Sigma lenses and couldn’t justify starting a new kit all together. Welcome to Australia, K7!!!
I own the old ist D and shots with adequate lighting are no problem. But focussing in poor lighting is frustrating. Hope the K7 is an improvement in this aspect. Will save to buy K7 if it’s much better.
I’m at a toss-up between Nikon’s D90 and Pentax’s K7. The only two things that keep me looking at Nikon are lens availability and the commander function for their flashes… Ortherwise it’s looking more and more like the K7 for me, especially since I may be inheriting a Pentax Super Program and 3 lenses…
Surf Wolf
For the benifit of those who are considering buying a K7 and are interested in the rebate of $100, you should think twice. Pentax changed the packaging on K7 about the time that the rebates were announced, but apparently did not tell their rebate vendor, nor did they change the rebate form. The problem now is that everyone’s rebate is being rejected. Both the retailer and Pentax are sympathetic, but in the end you are at the mercy of the third party rebate center. You can only communicate with them via US Mail. It is really a mess.
I love the k7 as a camera. I am not a big fan of they way Pentax is treating the customers
that’s why I bought D90 instead of k7 because of the treatment they gave my friend who bought it… it really sucks tobe treated as such….