Pentax 17 Review

[@stochasticdan]

Ever since this camera was announced, I was looking forward to your review. I always found your approach to reviewing cameras detailed and honest. I also find your photos beautiful. Your channel is one of my favorite photography channels. Well done.

[@AnalogInsights]

Oh wow. So kind of you. Really appreciate these warm words.

[@trastevere2007]

Dear Max, no apologies necessary regarding the price. This is new equipment with modern engineering practices behind it. All of us film shooters are lucky to have this happening now. Next up, Mint/Rollei.

[@marcp.1752]

Yes, i hope Max and Greg would review the upcoming MiNT/Rollei 35 AF....

[@BeingWolfy]

​@@marcp.1752- My guess is that he already has the Rollei 35AF in hand. Can't wait for his review!

[@eclipsehunter303]

I was expecting above 1000€ 😅

[@PhilKnall]

​@@eclipsehunter303that's what I'm expecting for their planned premium compact.

[@TristanColgate]

I've been wondering what this would be selling for on eBay if it had these specs but was from the '90s. I reckon £300 easy (mju2 goes for that, and is less auto), so brand new, £500 is definitely fair.

[@rickhauser9698]

This is the best and classiest review of the Pentax 17 I have seen. If nothing else please watch Max’s erudite declaration from 31:20 to 38:13. It is really growing on me.

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you soooo much for your kind words. I am glad this section resonated with you.

[@walterschimeck645]

Analog Insights is just about the only camera-review site I follow anymore. Too many of the others seem to fall into two categories: Either the host doesn't really know what he's talking about, and hasn't even read the instruction manual, or he's much more interested in putting himself on display hoping to be found witty and cool.

[@rickhauser9698]

@@walterschimeck645Totally agree with you sir

[@ChanceSooChae]

I've seen several reviews, and what I feel in common is that the resolution and color of the Pentax 17 lens are very good.

[@AnalogInsights]

Yes, definitely. The image quality is amazing.

[@ianhand5006]

I’m so very pleased that you two gentlemen have reviewed this camera. Thank you for another excellent and balanced camera review.

[@bobette360]

Max, hands down the best review I’ve seen of the camera, not that I expected anything less from you.

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you so much. That’s very kind of you.

[@Juliane2412]

Thank you for your comment on the price. People tend to forget, that quality and research needs to be paid.

[@Ni5ei]

Research? They've made countless analog cameras before.

[@Juliane2412]

@@Ni5ei Well, you might have forgotten, that the people who developed the cameras in earlier times are not at work or even alive anymore - as stated by Pentax themselves..

[@neeravnaik]

Personally for me this is a design masterpiece with so many small details that are so well thought out. The balance between getting back the tactile feel of using a film camera with making it easy for beginners to enjoy is very good. Price maybe bit on higher side for some but i feel this will still sell very well. Many markets in Asia, Africa etc. do not have access to good quality second hand markets and it will be great for them especially. Hero of this camera is the lens which is producing such great image quality. This is one thing that makes the value worth it along with the build and having a new camera.

[@AnalogInsights]

Thanks for your comment. Couldn’t agree more.

[@peterkin1010]

Seen the results off it via high res downloads and sm not impressed. £500 for a half frame camera is ridiculous . I could buy a decent condition Nikon F3HP with a 50mm lems for the same money.

[@Resgerr]

​@@peterkin1010but the Nikon F3 is still an old second hand camera

[@adtfor]

There is a huge second hand market in Japan, just saying. Actually I think it's the biggest market in the world

[@neeravnaik]

@@adtfor Japan is not entire Asia

[@JaedoTae]

For those who complain about prices of new innovations, imagine how you could research and develop new inventions, let alone passion of the film enthusiasts without kickstart programs. Well said by the reviewer. Ricoh/Pentax is possibly one of the best companies that hears customers and continues to innovate.

[@ChubbyPugYarn]

Thank you for an amazing review! I’m considering dipping my toes in to analogue photography but was a bit discouraged by a lot of negativity in comments and reviews I’ve seen so far so it was really refreshing to get a proper walk through of the camera, explanations of functions and your impressions of it!

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you for your kind comment. Glad to hear it was helpful. I tried my best to make the video relevant to both starters and more experienced film shooters.

[@erichartke4331]

Amazing review!! I have to say i enjoy seeing the positivity im the comments here and expressed in your video. I have so much respect for Ricoh/Pentax! Keep the cameras coming!!

[@neilpearson157]

A professional, comprehensive and thoroughly enjoyable review with loads of interesting shots and a fluent presentation. Very good indeed. Thank you Max and Jules.

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you for your kind words. Really appreciate it.

[@terrydear4038]

Max - bravo on a thorough and well balanced overview of this camera. Lovely photos too.

[@robstammers7149]

This review in my opinion, is the best I've watched on the Pentax 17. Many reviewers have moaned about it's price on release, the price hasn't stopped the Pentax 17 from selling out. When I first saw the Pentax 17 I said straight away, it will sell by the bucket load. Personally from this high quality review I will be buying one when Pentax can catch up with the pre order fulfilment. Pentax have designed and produced another high qualty winner. Great review by the way. Regards Rob (UK)

[@sherylrobinson1913]

Fantastic review!!, I can't wait to buy one. I shoot all sorts of cameras and am equally excited about a new release. It is a special moment in film photography.

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you. I fully agree.

[@nwmi23]

Excellent video. I placed my order on the 18th and should have the camera in my possession on the 25th.

[@user-ve3gh5xg9q]

👏

[@Honkonlong]

The only one I trust about this camera, thank you

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you, that’s very kind.

[@davidottman9501]

Thanks for offering your thoughtful comments at the end of the video. Most people value things with no consideration of what it takes to bring them to life and deliver them to us. Interesting camera, and a you made a great review!

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you so much for your kind feedback. I am glad you appreciated this section. :)

[@punkrachmaninoff]

Thank you Pentax. THANK YOU PENTAX.

[@mynewcolour]

The best review. I am really impressed by the camera. Little details such as the strap length, slow-sync, 40.5mm filter and such make me think this really is a camera designed with passion by real photography nerds. As a fan of Pen, XA and Mju cameras, but also completely manual cameras the 17 is very appealing to me.

[@bananaskin7527]

I'm excited too. I will support the effort and buy one too. Good review. Appreciated the mention of the ISO detents and the exposure compensation options.

[@dalespencer11]

great review. The shot at 16:35 is so nice!

[@walterschimeck645]

Another great review and a powerful rebuttal to all those who have pre-judged Pentax's effort (Why half-frame?...So expensive...) and in any case, wouldn't be satisfied until Nikon re-issues the FM3a. Having said that, I think Pentax/Ricoh's marketing department will have its work cut out selling the 17 to a new generation of film-photographers who haven't been taught to recognize quality workmanship or that quality is something they need to be prepared to pay for.

[@SachaSommer]

Yes, why half frame?

[@MumenRider78]

They’re doing well so far. It’s sold out in most places.

[@juliodubeux889]

Very clear and fair take on this product. It seems that this one will be in my collection at some point in the future. I really appreciate the channel guys. Very well researched and with no hurry to release just something to try and beat the other reviews to the punch. I appreciate you guys taking your time to really get to know the product before conveying your opinions. One of the best channels in the community for sure! Congrats boys!!!

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you so much. This means a lot to me.

[@AndyDay]

Excellent review. And some fantastic photos. Thanks for putting this together.

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you for your kind feedback. Really appreciate it. :)

[@andrewwilkin1923]

Hi Max & Jules, the best review on the Pentax 17 and believe me I've seen a lot from all the other KZbin channels I follow. About the price, it's amazing Ricoh have reached this price point for something new. Looking at 1970 prices for half frame cameras like the Canon Demi 28 and Olympus Pen EE2 and taking into account inflation the cost of the Pentax 17 falls in between these two. (Sources - Wallace Heaton Blue book 1970-71, inflation figures from the Bank Of England inflation calculator)

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you for your thoughtful comment. Completely agree regarding the price.

[@john_murch]

Well done Max and Jules, I especially like your last point regarding the price!/value! Also hats of to Ricoh/Pentax for having the guts to do something almost no other current manufacturers would dare to do!

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you for your kind feedback. And yes, I agree. I am glad that Ricoh/Pentax are taking the lead here and did this leap of faith.

[@PrestonThomasCafe]

As usual, great review. Also, as a longtime Pentax and Leica shooter, I can honestly say that Pentax build quality and attention to details is second to none. While I don't have much interest in a 1/2 frame camera, I'm hoping that Pentax will take a look at their excellent ME Super (my No.1 film camera) and use that as a template for their next build. Thanks again for your work.

[@robertmortimer4837]

ME super, my first and one of my current film cameras (over 30yr)

[@andrecockell9048]

Mine too. It is a bit beyond economical repair, unfortunately. However, if Pentax/Ricoh could produce that camera new, but with build quality akin to the MX, then they'd have an absolute winner.

[@louhautdavid6451]

I was cautious about the menus but with more reflexion I find this choice quite clever and practical for any user. You have enough tools to serve your intents. What convinces me is the quality of the lens. I saw close-up photos in another review and they look great. Thanks for this inspiring video!

[@senkawascott]

I'm very glad to see your thoughtful and well-researched review of this camera. Many talking heads have spoken flippantly about the lens, the body materials, the half frame format, etc. No names mentioned, but I lost respect for quite a few KZbinrs over this review. On the other hand, your logical review, and that of other thoughtful people (i.e. Luigi Barbano, TheDarkroom and a few others). The point of the leap of faith taken by Pentax in creating this camera is not to be taken lightly! I am thrilled by the specs of this camera and plan to buy it when it is available here in Tokyo.

[@garoldcarlisle5637]

Excellent review once again. Very much appreciate the quality of all your reviews.

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you for your kind feedback. This means a lot.

[@danielsinn8164]

Great review! Mine will be here in a couple of days, and I'm really excited! I've owned and repaired at least 100 vintage cameras, and I've realized that the vast majority of 35mm cameras give you pretty much the same result. Half frame with a quality lens really brings something different and new.

[@AnalogInsights]

Very true. Curious to hear what you think once you have it. :)

[@berzerkrobot]

Your guys review on this camera is peerless.

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you! Very kind of you.

[@carltanner9065]

The moment I can, i will be getting one of these cameras. I have a Canon Demi EE17 and I love it and the format. Adding the Pentax 17 to my half-frame collection will be something to look forward to!

[@AnalogInsights]

Thanks for the comment. I think the major advantage of the Pentax over the Canon Demi EE17 (which I also own) is the close focus possibilities and easier/quicker focusing mechanism. You will probably really enjoy it if you like using the Canon Demi.

[@GONZOFAM7]

Another excellent review. With 72 shots you can take more snapshot and use it more like a cell phone.

[@RonScibilia]

But it's not one. Connectivity is king.

[@Fauxbourg]

But it isn't a cell phone, so what really is the point in using a film camera like one.

[@MrJoeylikesmusic]

I really appreciate you defending the price and decisions Pentax made with this camera. As an enthusiast I’m so excited for this camera and already have mine on pre order.

[@flowermaze___]

Some of the nicest photos I’ve seen taken with the 17 🎞️ Beautiful work. Great review! Who’d have thought we’d see a new film camera again, and one made to such a high standard and pedigree! Thanks Pentax!

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you for your kind words. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@christopherward5065]

I have just watched your review for the second time and your discussion and sample images were spot on. The designers considered the use cases for most camera users and created rational solutions. I saw one of the Rollei designers explaining the origin of their LIDAR based focussing system as a case of there being no alternative mechanisms. Pentax sidestepped the problem with an elegant solution. Old school photojournalists of renown often used apertures and hyper focal distances in the field. Most users are obsessed with street photography not sport and wildlife. Cartier Bresson and other photojournalists from the past would be at home with this camera and the quality which is superb in terms of what it achieves. People are happy to pay three times as much for their smartphones so the price will find it many customers.

[@campyonlyguy]

I've seen and read many reviews, but I learned something new in your excellent essay. I agree with you about price--in fact, I've ordered a 17 and hope to have it in hand this week!

[@L.E.Santo02]

The best review I have seen so far. Thank you guys for that!

[@AnalogInsights]

Thanks so much.

[@rvbsoundfactory]

The Pentax organization is something to admire. They are a exciting photographic company. The Pentax 17 is a very interesting camera. Looking forward to seeing the other film cameras that Pentax produce in the future. Pentax chose well for analog insights to review the new camera.

[@xmeda]

There is no Pentax any more for over 10 years. Just Ricoh.

[@rvbsoundfactory]

@@xmeda yes, I think I was aware of that. Ricoh Imaging. Nice name.

[@elsueniero5922]

Great review as always, thanks for your channel

[@AnalogInsights]

Thanks for your feedback. Appreciate it. :)

[@josearielramos371]

Great review, y'all. It is a good argument to make that new and vintage prices can't be compared unless original prices of vintage cameras are taken into consideration. Go Pentax!

[@jbinsc]

Very well done. I had an Olympus XA2 in 1980 or so. Used it many times for our short holiday trips to Disney in Florida. Ditching the full size 35 mm SLR, it was simple but produced nice exposures. We still enjoy those photos of our kids at Disney. I like the vintage look of film. Yes, I ordered one…

[@AnalogInsights]

Thanks for your comment and for sharing these memories. I can only imagine how nice this must have been.

[@TheAussieEz]

Fantastic review! Thanks !! And great pics

[@alexandermenzies9954]

Max, best (by far) review of the 17 I've yet seen. I hope lots of 12 - 18 yo's will receive (with film)) a 17 for birthdays or Christmas (and the older cohort, too!).

[@jdebultra]

This is really a comprehensive review. Thank you Max.

[@77folgore]

An excellent review (as usual) and a sound reasoning regarding the price.

[@stefanjr]

I'm surprised how good the 17 exposures. The highlights are especially brilliant. And - the photos at 20:41 and 20:46 are really TOP!

[@kazushinakada6543]

The review of Pentax 17. I enjoy your post every time. .... Only problem is that I start to purchase old cameras ( which I could buy when I was young... such as Leica r7....) after watching your channel.

[@jasonwhitehead4068]

Another great review max. I’m so with you on the cost of the camera and they should be applauded for daring to take the risk. I for sure will be getting one and I’ll be happy to know that I’ll get years of use without breaking or need of service, which can’t be said for my vintage equipment. I had my Nikon f2 serviced by the great sover wong and that was around £400 ten years ago. It’s still shooting film but makes the Pentax look a bargain.

[@H2A2I00]

This camera looks fantastic. While the half frame is my only personal issue, this is a no-brainer recommendation to a majority of casual shooters who just want to save the jpegs to their phone and share them online. Great points on price- this is more than fair and more competitive than what some of our favourite vintage cameras went for upon their own retail release. Between this and the Mint camera coming out soon, it is an exciting time and I hope as many people as possible support both.

[@AnalogInsights]

So true. I feel like we have reached a tipping point in the film community that might bring about some changes. Very interesting times.

[@angrd020]

Ohhh yesss!!!! I've been waiting for your review...!!!!!

[@AnalogInsights]

Thanks, so glad to hear that. I hope you enjoy it. :)

[@vangstr]

Great video. A bit later than all the other reviews but genuinely well made video. Great to hear your experiences with this camera.

[@funbichons5215]

I’ve been waiting for your review of Pentax 17. Great review and sample photos 👍 this will add to my collections of half frame cameras like Olympus Pen, Pen F, Canon Demi, Ricoh Caddy and now Pentax 17 📷

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you so much. And wow, what a wonderful collection. This camera should definitely be a part of this collection.

[@pushingfilm]

Excellent review (and analysis of the greater implications of this new camera) 👍

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you for dropping by, Hashem, and take the time to comment. Really appreciate it.

[@mikegraziotti]

I have 40 vintage cameras, 10 have failed in some manner. Someday all will fail so thankfully companies like Pentax are keeping film alive. Regarding 1/2 frame being a bad thing, this is mirrorless all over again. How long have we heard the argument “they aren’t as good as full frame, I need full frame to get good pictures”. The Pentax 17 is a perfect size travel camera, have you ever tried taking a Nikon F4 on holiday.

[@Fauxbourg]

There are much smaller fullframe film cameras than the F4.

[@thomasa.243]

I have 5 Minox 35. Beautiful cameras but they all failed. Keeping it for spareparts but the problem is that all 5 have the same issue… I hope that this camera succeeds and Pentax will release more cameras. The design of this camera actually looks like it is „modular“ in terms of manufacturing.

[@jeffreyrice]

I really enjoyed your review and perspective on this camera. Thanks.

[@39exposures]

great review as always!

[@paulkerruems]

Your command of English is incredible. What a lovely piece of equipment. Thanks for another lovely review

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you, that is very kind of you.

[@adamturner7304]

The best review I have seen on here very balanced and you can see your love of film

[@pdtech4524]

O'm just happy a manufacturer has developed a new film camera, hopefully others will follow I'm sure.

[@ernestthomas9406]

I'm glad you made the point that the price of this camera is not an issue of discussion also the camera is targeted at people who are interested in photography, to me these are important points. That being said I think it is a stroke of genius to have a camera that isn't over price & give a person a cool starting point to keep true photography alive

[@GODSPEEDseven]

I love and appreciate each and every camera manufacturer out there. I would hate any one of them to be out of the game. But, I have to give it to Pentax; hats off to a company that actually seems to sincerely care about photography and giving us very unique cameras/lenses at very fair prices. I should be receiving this camera in a few days and already have a whole photography project in mind for this little gem. Thanks for your great review :)

[@stephanweiskorn6760]

Excellent video 😮!

[@danielcoburn7696]

Brilliant. I enjoy watching your videos Thankyou for your insights

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you for your kind feedback.

[@olio_benzina]

Hello and thank you for another excellent and thoughtful review. I'm fascinated by this new film camera and the design philosophy behind it. Pentax must be commended for this significant commitment. As far as the price, it's similar to a decent entry level digital camera or phone so no more needs to be said on this matter. I have an Olympus Pen S and a Canon Demi ee17 and the image quality of the Pentax 17 appears to be as good or better, therefore excellent. Regarding the default vertical frame, this is a non-issue as the user automatically adjusts in my experience. I don't even notice doing this on my Fujica GS 645S. I sincerely hope this new film camera is a success for Pentax and a joy to use for the new owners. Regards. Paul.

[@ulrichmaas3125]

Best review of this camera so far. Totally agree to your view on the retail price.

[@AnalogInsights]

Thanks so much. Very kind of you.

[@mjones410]

you changed my mind on this camera, excellent review :)

[@mistercyclops81]

Wow, Max have you ever had the chance to review a newly designed and marketed film camera on this channel? I can imagine you were excited for the opportunity, and Kudos to Pentax for taking the initiative to develop a new analog product in the digital age. Another fabulous episode - thank you!

[@nohandle54]

I was hoping you'd review this one. Well done, Max

[@christopherward5065]

Thankyou Max for such a considered review. At first when the images were leaked, it was difficult to understand what Pentax was aiming for. However, as soon as the quality of build, materials and images are apparent we find that Pentax are serious about the medium and photographers. It is a very good proposition and great value. A great return to film from a great and innovative manufacturer.

[@nmd1211]

As others have said, your reviews are always well done and thought out. I am looking forward to using a new camera that has the best of many of today's technologies, as well as easy-to-find batteries! Vintage cameras can become difficult to enjoy if they require batteries, so this is something that I appreciate. The extra modes are something I am looking forward to. Keep up the good work here.

[@AnalogInsights]

Thanks for your comment. I am sure you’ll enjoy this remarkable camera. It is such a joy to use.

[@malypavel25]

Received mine yesterday! Spent a day shooting with it today! ❤

[@tomjanowski8584]

This is the best review of the Pentax 17 among very few good reviews. 2 things come to mind....1. so few new film cameras are around to review, besides some disposables and 2. when online camera reviews were becoming a thing, film cameras were already mostly gone from thought. So now, with this camera, I get the impression that KZbinrs are trying so hard to "go big" with comments and conclusions when they don't need to. It's as if this is everyone's chance to make their mark on a film camera. Much about this camera makes it an interesting proposition, half frame leading the way. But in more general terms, it's simply a new camera. I love all my old cameras, but one by one, they are having issues that may or may not be worth repairing. So the availability of a new film camera is amazing and that alone should not be discounted. Many KZbinrs are now coming out with a second review, many condemning the camera as "not for me". Hopefully, no one is influenced by these negative reviews.

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you for your thoughtful comment. I share your observation that many reviews were not quite living up to the camera and giving it full credit for what it really is. As you suggest, it is a game changer and will certainly affect other manufacturers as well.

[@jr8440]

this is the very best review i have seen on the 17! well done, so much work you put in it. thanks max if pentax made it cheap it would be less relevant and i totally agree with your analysis

[@kabaottoemulsion1869]

Thanks for the very honest review of this camera. Love that Land Rover Defender photo! Where you located? I love you are as passionate as people developed this camera! I think pricing is pretty good! People buy this camera will be supported at least next 10 years of Pentax repair and spare parts support! As I am deeply working with Pentax past 30 years of my life. This is one of happiest time of my life with PENTAX! Enjoyed your video!

[@AnalogInsights]

Thanks for your comment. I am based in Munich.

[@VariTimo]

The camera actually goes into power saving mode after one minute. The On/Off switch is more of a shutter lock switch so you don’t take a photo when you don’t actually want to.

[@timmy3822]

Absolutely wonderful review. I'm still very much a beginner in the world of photography, especially film. I'd say I have a decent eye for composition, but working with focal length and exposure is something relatively new to me with most of my camera work in the last decade being on flagship model smartphones. I got really frustrated with just how much post processing is involved with these cameras though, and decided to try using a "proper" camera, but also not one that was digital. I felt that with digital cameras, at least in the casual user audience people are too snap happy and not really taking in the moment they're saving. It's a similar sense with streaming music, people don't tend to listen to full albums in sequence now with their spotify playlists and sometimes you lose a big part of the experience in that. So to see a NEWLY developed model of film camera, a half-frame one at that in this day and age is nothing short of a miracle I think. Digital is so dominant, and you see a lot of beginners going for vintage cameras which are getting more expensive to buy and keep running but also a lot of new releases are the instant variety like Polaroid and Instax. Kodak did the H35 which was a fun little camera but also really limited and only had an acrylic lens. Vinyl has seen a massive comeback in the music scene and I enjoy the format too for my music, and film photography could have the same if we show a strong enough desire for it. YAY for analogue formats! I'm absolutely going to get one of these, perhaps I can persuade my parents to help out partially for Christmas. Pentax must've spent a good chunk of change developing this product and if we want to see more like it I think the film photography userbase needs to send a really clear message that we want more cameras like this. Do we dare to hope for a new K1000 derivitive? With a new generation of K-mount? I'm continuing to use my dads old Pentax MV for now, but it's got some issues with the electronics, to be expected for a 40+ year old camera though I guess. I can't wait to get one.

[@AnalogInsights]

I love your comment on so many levels. So happy to hear that you enjoy film photography and getting into all these analog formats. I hope you can get the Pentax 17 - I think you will really enjoy it.

[@yorkieinnz4648]

Thank you for a good honest review .....as always.

[@ezpoppy55]

Your comments on the price are so well thought out and presented, Max. It’s 2024. Look at the world now, not through rose colored glasses. I have my Polaroid I-2 which I simply adore. It has a place on the shelf with my 50MP Canon, my Toyo 4x5, my Mamiya 6, and my Leica M6. The Pentax will soon be joining that! Love the video you and Jules put together, and never fail to enjoy the photographs that accompany these product reviews. Keep up the great work! 👍🏼

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you so much. This sounds like a wonderful camera collection with each camera having its place in it. The Polaroid I-2 is also simply fantastic and quite underrated in my opinion.

[@christill]

It’s definitely tempting, although I don’t think it’s for me right now. I’d love to see them do a half-frame SLR with a more modern camera battery and similar electronics to this one, but offering the full set of modes as well as the assists. I think that’d be amazing. And then they could go on to do the fully mechanical SLR for the people who want that. I think you’re right to mention that the price is actually very reasonable considering the financial and time investment that has gone into such a huge undertaking. I was a little bit surprised when I first heard, but that’s why you should always try to sleep on these things before you react. The chances are that you’ll change your mind very quickly from that first snap reaction.

[@kimc5750]

I have been waiting for your review! Fantastic. People have to realize that tooling and engineering has a price.

[@robertmortimer4837]

I believe the camera auto powers down after a short period and powers back up automatically when you press the shutter. You only need to turn off the power to make sure the battery is not run down while it is in a bag.

[@AlexanderHernandez-sb7lq]

It’s amazing that Recoh/ Pentax released a new film camera. I hope this project is a success and we get more film cameras in the future.

[@nickcosh5947]

Great video Max, I think you were spot on with your commentary. I am also glad for the slightly longer length to cover all of the camera and its pro's and cons. I think Pentax should be congratulated, in fact any company who brings out a new film camera of this quality, will I buy it no but I find it hard to go through 36 frames let alone 72 🤣

[@piotrtrypus]

Fantastic review, thank you.

[@robertoposa1120]

I absolutely agree on your thoughts about the price - I‘ll get one for sure - excellent video - thanks

[@MumenRider78]

I bought one as my first camera. Looking forward to learning how to use it. Just waiting for the film to arrive

[@AnalogInsights]

Thanks for your comment. So nice! I hope you enjoy it. Would be curious to hear your thoughts and how you like it after using it a bit.

[@MumenRider78]

@@AnalogInsights How do you know what to set the exposure compensation dial at? For example, I’m using the Kodak ultramax 400 as my film

[@sayantanutbe]

One of the only videos on KZbin that has beautifully focused, exposed images out of this camera.

[@RichardMaguire110]

Thank you for this review I had hoped you would do this. I am seriously thinking about buying one. I have Olympus and Yashica half frame cameras, this one offers something different with new thinking in its design, I could use this camera well and enjoy it.

[@JoeWP3223]

I would love to win one! Like you said, it’s 2024 and we get a new film camera! That’s something to be grateful for!

[@rdmckeever7645]

Nice and fair review. Already ordered one; waiting availability and shipping. Only complaint I see coming is one minor thing, the texture on the rear of the camera does not match the leatherette texture on the front. Picky complaint for sure, but it makes it look like the camera was built with spare parts from another design.

[@mynewcolour]

There’s definitely room for aesthetic improvements with ltd editions, as they did with the GRs.

[@buyaport]

Addendum after some weeks of use: I use my Panasonic G9 with the Olympus 30mm macro lens, which gives a 2.5 magnification in 35mm terms, to "scan" these halfframe pictures, and get usable 17 megapixel out of this (could get more with high resolution mode, but don't need it). So the halfframe in itself is no problem. But unless you love having strong and very visible grain you should use fine grain films. Recommended for slide film: Kodak E100. For colour negatives: Kodak Ektar 100. For black and white: Ilford PanF or Adox HR50. Don't expect results that can compete with digital resolution (use medium or large format for this). But what I get are pictures that are very much like paintings. And that is a joy of film photography, no digital camera can match!

[@theangrymarmot8336]

Lol, I also use a G9 w/ Olympus 30mm macro to scan my negatives. For the light source / negative holders I use a Sunray Box III. It is a great combo.

[@xiaodu87]

Thanks for the review! I very much agree with you on the price point, although 550 € is still a lot of money, even if there are good reasons. I had the camera in my hands at our local analog camera store here in Hamburg which had a nice little promo event. What I found a bit unfortunate (something also mentioned in many videos about the camera) is that the back received a little less intention. The overall look of the camera would be more refined if they had given the back the same surface as the front. (In German I'd say, "Sie wäre insgesamt runder von der Optik"). All in all, I really appreciate the effort by Ricoh PENTAX to go forward and get out this camera

[@Ianl6311]

Great review! Would you say you have to be willing to change your habits in favor of more vertical shots with the Pentax 17 or it’s also suitable for mostly horizontal shooters? I’m talking about a potential discomfort in always having to turn the camera sideways, in terms of stability in the hand, etc.

[@dbkfrogkaty1]

I hope for Pentax sake that this camera sells. Pentax has re-created a compact easy to operate film camera for both new comers and the more experienced photographers. Everything in the world is more expensive these days so a newly developed from scratch film camera is no different. Excellent review of the new 17.

[@AnalogInsights]

Thank you for your kind comment. Appreciate it. :)

[@EvilDaikon]

Great review and the one I have been waiting for. As for price, I'm someone who can and has sourced used cameras. Sure I can find something cheaper. But a new camera that I can depend on, has a return policy, and a warranty still appeals to me. I also find that since it's a 'point and shoot' and is half frame to be complementary to my other cameras - it is offering something I don't have. Happy to hear that sales have exceeded expectations and that the first batch is already sold out. It speaks to the desire of new options for film users.

[@buyaport]

Thanks for putting this review together. Helped a lot with my decision to buy this camera. And of course one cannot compare the price to old, used cameras! Just compare the price for a Lomo LC-Wide, which offers a lot less feature and certainly has already earned the development costs several times over.

[@derHörer]

Another superb review