Since I am going to school in pursuit of first; a certificate in Web Content Development then; an Associate's Degree in Business with an Emphasis on Web Content Development, I have to take digital photography classes. Of course I am thrilled with this opportunity because I have had a love for digital photography for over ten years. For "Digital Photography - 1" I need a DSLR camera that shoots RAW format. Since I am unemployed at the moment I went looking for a camera that would fit into a "financial aid" budget.

I looked at several good DSLR cameras but none of them could compare to the Pentax Kx! The price is very good for all it has to offer.

Available in 3 Colors
Available in stylish colors including traditional black, classy white, and PENTAX red.

 

12.4 megapixel CMOS sensor
High quality 12.4 megapixel CMOS sensor captures detailed images with high color accuracy and low noise.

          (although I know that mega-pixels aren't everything when it comes to image quality, I am glad this one will have enough megapixels for any size image I may need.)

2.7 inch LCD with Live View and Face Detection
Large 2.7 inch LCD features Live View with contrast, phase difference, and Face Detection autofocus (up to 16 faces).

          (Nice for my eyes. and good for me since I'm so new to using a DSLR.)

Compact and lightweight
Compact and lightweight body is exceptionally comfortable to use, and highly portable.
          (This sounds interesting. I hate lugging huge bags around, but will it be sturdy enough?)

Auto Picture and Scene Modes
Powerful automatic modes, including PENTAX Auto Picture and scene modes, ensure the perfect shot in any situation, while helping new photographers learn DSLR photography.

          (I'm glad I can use it even before I really get into the photography classes. It has settings for newbies too! :-)  )

Creative Processing and Filter Modes
Creative processing and filter modes produce high quality finished images, while offering the ability to explore artistic freedom through unique special effects.
 
HDR Image Capture
True HDR image capture blends 3 bracketed images into a single picture with outstanding shadow, highlight, and midrange detail.
 
4.7 Frames per Second
Fast 4.7 FPS capture speed and 1/6000 second maximum shutter speeds are possible with the PENTAX
PRIME II image processing engine.
 
11 Point Wide Angle Focus
Responsive 11 point wide angle SAFOX VIII autofocus system focuses quickly and accurately, and can easily track moving subjects.
 
AA Batteries
Capture up to 1900 shots with universally available, easy-to-find AA lithium batteries (also compatible with AA NiMH rechargeable and alkaline batteries).

          (I am glad that this camera is upgradable. The coolest thing I saw is that it will take any Pentax lense that was ever made from 1952! This makes the camera truly worth my initial investment as my first DSLR!)

Review Links

http://www.popphoto.com/reviews/cameras/2010/04/camera-test-pentax-k-x?page=0,0

My new semi-pro Pentax K5 Camera

Since I have become very serious about photography and hope to have a successful career in the photography business, it was time to get a serious camera. After weeks of reading and researching cameras, and taking into consideration the investment I have already made in lenses I chose the Pentax K5. I LOVE this camera!

The following is a note from the Pentax website:

01 Magnesium alloy casing for outstanding durability and reduced weight

The K-5’s body features a monocoque structure in which the exterior casing also functions as the main frame — a unique design that reinforces the entire body and provides solid protection for internal mechanisms. Its use of magnesium alloy contributes to higher rigidity and reduced weight. It also possesses an outstanding damping capacity to effectively absorb external shock, as well as excellent heat-radiating and electromagnetic-shielding capacities to suppress digital noise. All together, the K-5’s body has been built with the durability and functionality to withstand years of heavy-duty use.

02 Hybrid stainless-steel chassis to enhance rigidity, durability and shock resistance

The most importance components of a camera, such as the imaging sensor and mirror box, are mounted to the chassis. That’s why the K-5’s chassis is made of dependable, durable, high-rigidity stainless steel — a material that is also highly resistant to corrosion. By combining it with high-shock-absorbency molded components, PENTAX has created a unique hybrid chassis for the K-5 that is both strong and flexible.


03 Dustproof, weather-resistant construction to assure solid performance under demanding conditions

To prevent rain, dust, sand and other foreign substances from entering the camera body, the K-5 features a dependable dustproof, weather-resistant construction. Special seals are meticulously applied to all buttons and dials, all seams between outer body parts, and all movable parts such as the back cover. Both the optional D-BG4 Battery Grip and DA-star lenses also feature the same reliable construction, completing a highly airtight photographic system that performs superbly in even the roughest conditions.

Cameras and lenses

 

Reviews

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/pentaxk5/

http://www.stevehuffphoto.com/2011/01/10/the-pentax-k5-digital-camera-review/

http://www.dxomark.com/index.php/Cameras/Camera-Sensor-Database/Pentax/K5

The Pentax K5 beat Nikon D3 and D700 at DxO Labs!

Comparison of K5 and Kx

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