Pentax 17 Shooting + Review || Is it actually any good?

A few weeks ago Pentax sent me their first brand new film camera in 17 years - The Pentax 17 a half frame compact point and shoot film camera that is making its world debut! In this episode we test the image quality, discuss the features and functions as well as show sample images. All of the opinion in this video are my own with that said I would love to hear your thoughts in the comment section down below! What do you think of the the all new Pentax 17? #Pentax17 #Pentax
To see full res samples of images in this video, follow me on instagram ‪@KingJvpes‬
Developer and scanned by The Darkroom lab!
Website - thedarkroom.com/?gad_source=1
Instagram - ‪@TheDarkroomLab‬
Pentax 17 info - us.ricoh-imaging.com/product/...
Purchase link (not an affiliate link) - pentax.eu/products/pentax-17

[@KingJvpes]

What are your thoughts on the new Pentax 17? Are you getting this camera?!? Comment down below and drop a like on this video if yall enjoyed it 🙏🏽

[@swr410]

Maybe the weirdest part is that the focus zones are disabled in Auto mode, and it just goes to a small aperture for a large depth of field. I think most people will totally miss that. Shame they probably can’t just do a firmware update to change that. 😅 Tbh, I wish there were an autofocus or SLR/rangefinder focus system here, as it’s rough just guessing with film. Awesome camera overall, though, and I hope it does well!

[@juicedrocks]

great compact companion for when i choose my digital camera for the day. If I wasn't happy with my HF Ricoh Caddy already, then I would highly consider it. I love HF, I feel free when I have it with me. I understand the price point of $500 but personally I feel I would be more likely to purchase between $300-400. I personally love the zone focus and the exposure compensation dial. People talk about how they prefer full manual focus, but zone focus is arguably quicker than AF. What's most important to me is the exposure compensation dial, controlling light is much more important to me to get creative. I guess one can argue you can adjust exposure in post process but, for how I shoot right now, I prefer little to no editing on my photos for the time being.

[@jaetok]

A modern engineered film camera. What a time to be alive

[@KingJvpes]

Insane!!!

[@larrymccormick3226]

Alive !

[@sgtoconor]

Modern Family engineered? What the f is u smoking?

[@Skux720]

Sample shots are really impressive, people will be surprised at the quality you can get from half frame with a good lens

[@gtbuzz29]

A lot of people seem to be hating on this thing for various reasons, but I feel it harkens the beginning of a renaissance for film photography and should be exciting for all of us. Already on preorder for me and I’m excited to see what comes next from the team at Pentax.

[@ShutterKnack]

You can tell that they will reuse the frame for a full 35mm camera. They will use some of the same parts and most likely the same frame. It gives you a peak of what's coming next. I'm saving up for one to support Pentax and the hopes that we get a new 35mm body soon.

[@erichartke4331]

​@@ShutterKnackTKO stated they plan to use the film advance in an SLR I am super excited for that!! 🥳 I also pre-ordered the 17. The top layout is so good.

[@robertkoch2873]

This overpriced crap for hipsters with too much money. Congratulations Pentax!

[@madrat5176]

@@robertkoch2873EXACTLY

[@erichartke4331]

@@robertkoch2873 I disagree I started saving for it as soon as they announced the project. It's a fun camera and the lens seems very good. It's certainly not for everyone. I want to see what they do next.

[@Jeff_St_John]

Great video!! You hit on a lot of points that I agree with. I just had mine delivered on Saturday, June 22nd, from B&H. Full Disclosure: I am 45 (kinda old now) and I learned photography on film in the late 90's AND on Pentax cameras... I have a soft spot for the company and do not bash them for being what they are (so any bias there? You decide...) But, I did pay full price and Pentax has NO idea who I am... lol. The camera is MORE plastic feeling than I thought it would be, but not in a cheap way (if that makes sense.) I'm not worried about it lasting with some reasonable care, but it is mostly plastic (and I wish it wasn't.) I have to imagine that this was one of the compromises the "money people" at the top made the designers agree to at this stage... there is a fair amount of risk that Pentax/Ricoh is taking on. SO... half frame, minimal manual controls, and plastic construction... who would want this? Well, me. Not because I NEED IT... I do have my classic SLR camera bodies that are old but still working (for now.) But I paid $500 for this because 1. at my age I can afford it. 2. I want to support Pentax in hopes that this leads to more development. And 3. I don't think there is anything wrong with having a camera to just go out and have fun with (even if an old-school SLR can "do more.") There is no requirement that anyone agrees with this perspective... it is just mine. My recommendation: if you are on a tight budget and can find cheaper, more featured USED options, then maybe go with that... that is what most of us have been doing for the last two decades! If you are financially in a place to have a "fun" film camera to go along with other ones you might already have, despite the plastic feel, I think this camera will last a long time and maybe by supporting Pentax, we will see another product more directed at advanced shooters down the road. It is a personal decision, and I don't begrudge anyone for feeling otherwise. I am excited!

[@paulgryniewicz5650]

One of the best, if not the best review currently available for the Pentax 17.

[@originate89]

Nice to finally meet you Jon! Love the video and keep them coming!

[@KingJvpes]

Pleasure meeting you!! Thanks for letting me grab a portrait!

[@Saltpeanutss]

Start your channel bro

[@philipvernon_photography]

MP user from over the pond. Great choice 👌

[@MiguelQuilesJr]

Crazy times we live in to see a brand new film camera! Not sure how to feel about it but it hopefully brings new people to the game.

[@KingJvpes]

It’s insane. Never thought id be able to see this happen

[@MurdockMediaProduction]

Frankly, I love it. I shot Pentax with a K1000 from 1992 until digital took over and now I've got a Pentax MX and ME Super. This looks like a perfect go anywhere street photography camera and I imagine a lot of ways to make images with this camera that can be used in non-traditional ways starting with the concept of dyptichs, but also getting into collage and photo stories. In some ways it makes me think of instax mini framing, but with better focus control and sharpness.

[@gabeoleinik4435]

Interesting you mention the instax, i think you’re spot on. I’ve seen talk that Pentax potentially intends this camera to be an accessible “graduation” from instax for interested people in the Japanese market. Instax is stupidly popular over there and I think there’s a good chance this camera is able to do well as a next step for a lot of people.

[@juliodubeux889]

You smashed it out of the park. What a video! Totally made me think about getting one myself, given the outstanding quality of your photos! Congrats man!

[@sdhute]

You’ve done the best job describing the pentax17 controls I’ve seen so far.

[@philipvernon_photography]

I personally think the concept is brilliant!I’m 58 years young and my first 35mm film camera was the Olympus Pen F half frame. I think this camera is definitely aimed at a younger generation that can use this format really well as said in social media so if sharp enough will really suit the likes of Instagram so on 👌 Is it a gateway to full frame? Personally I think it will be to some and having 72 shots is a massive bonus. Thank you for sharing this content 🙏

[@b.2221]

Not my choice of format, but man I am excited for the next generation of film photographers out there. 2024 with a new film camera is just mind boggling, and I loved the way you explained the layout and haptics of the camera 📷 for every one. To me you are a young very talented photographer but you really came across concise and clearly. Not an easy task as some people might think, but you nailed it, and I think it’s one of the best videos on this camera currently out there.

[@coledig7157]

Love your videos! Keep up the great work. You are only getting better and better. Glad to see new film cameras being made!

[@coledig7157]

You should come to Virginia Beach / Outer Banks sometime!

[@Mlcjoufdcbn]

Thank you for this very informative review. Not only did I subscribe to your channel, but I also placed a preorder for the camera because of this vid:) As much as I understand the disappointment for many enthusiasts of film cameras, for someone like me who is completely new at this and was looking for a simple point-and-shoot to get my feet wet and shoot without having to think much, this seems to be a perfect camera. I think you are one of the few who reviewed this without any biased emotions(of someone wanting more advance features). I've read blogs and watched many videos about this camera, trying to decide if I wanted to spend $500 or buy a used old camera, but your unbiased reviews just sold me on it. Even though I understand there are cheaper film cameras out there, for someone completely new like me, having an old 30-20(some even older!) year-old camera seemed too much of a gamble in the long run. I love the look of the camera and the simplicity. Anyways, I hope when the new Rollei comes out, you can also review it as well(and I hope I don't regret this Pentax over the Rollei)!

[@vicxorr]

Glad to see another camera created..amazing times! beautiful piece of art 🙌

[@edwardsblake3630]

Of all the you tubers videos I’ve seen on this cares so far your photos taken with it are by far the best. Thanks for the video

[@jancperez4816]

X2 nunca pensaría que son echas con una cámara de half-frame. 🙌🏽🙌🏽📷🎞️🇵🇷

[@Incdvideo]

Liked Your review on The Pentax 17 . Your Review was Very Informative and held Ones Interest . Looks like You put in a lot more work making the Video than most . Great work , a fan .

[@joshbarkley4587]

Honestly, I really want it for a few reasons. 1. I think it would be practical as well as cost effective to have a half frame camera. 2. I think it's important to support the new push for modern film cameras since it is a hobby and art form we all love. 3. I think you can get some really awesome results as well as a different look and perspective as apposed to a full frame camera. And lastly, I think it's be a great camera to have with you when you want to take photos and capture a moment, but don't have to fuss with all the settings for aperture, shutter speed, so on and so forth. Just focus and go. And I do love being able to adjust all of those settings, which is why I have several SLR's. But I feel like this camera would fit into a space where SLR's don't give you the best value or convenience. Also great video, thank you!

[@jordan.jaymes]

Knocked it out of the park with this review! Thinking about getting one…not quite sure yet. Hope this is just the beginning of more to come for Pentax.

[@Joe_VanCleave]

It’s interesting that the zone focus dial doesn’t directly operate a helical focus mount, but rather tells the electronics to electrically focus to that selected distance. This suggests a follow on camera might be autofocus. The body is also big enough for a full-sized film gate. The shutter in this camera is a leaf shutter that maxes out at 1/320 second, they’d most likely use a curtain shutter for a full-frame version.

[@mkrainwater]

Great observations! I believe Pentax has a better idea of the roadmap for this film project than we think. Clearly the 17 could be repurposed as a full- frame body.

[@luisviedma6907]

I'm so happy for this. I know it will be hard to get one, but the fact that we're seeing the first film camara made after almost 20 years it's just amazing. Thank you Pentax!

[@DaveFlys]

I just sent this to my wife with a note stating, “I’ma be needing this.” We like to travel and go on little adventures here and there. This is the perfect little “always-take-it-with-you” camera. So yeah, I think I will be getting one. Huge thanks for the first look!

[@richardnovak7772]

Great video! I'm excited to see such positive reviews of this new camera.

[@HawonJung]

I hope this is a massive success so more manufacturers will jump on to release new film cameras.

[@GrendLboi]

Film photography is very much still alive. Thank you for the inspiring content. Keep the vibe alive!

[@coryirvin6651]

Happy to see it, really hope other brands try it as well. Was hoping for a smaller price point, but totally understand.

[@ogmike6444]

best example photos so far of any p17 video, actually tried and didnt force your video out right away

[@CamMead]

Really nice shots man, look forward to checking one out.

[@MilmidStudios]

Song lyrics at 6:15 had me grimacing and bobbing like a mad man!💯 Great video! 🎉

[@peniqliotuv]

What's the name of that song? I dig it

[@denkibike]

Beautiful shots man!

[@TristanColgate]

Without wishing to get "that guy" , I've watched most of the reviews, and I think your images show you really get this camera! Half frame is fun, portrait is weird, but can be a fun challenge like everything else. Great job, and again, wonderful photos!

[@jasonblake5576]

Great shots and well presented you covered it well

[@shanelee4094]

While it may not be everyone’s ideal camera, I’m so excited that Pentax is investing in this space. I’m on the fence, as I am a strictly manual shooter. But definitely see the value here. I wouldn’t be surprised if they already have an SLR in the works. Thanks Pentax! And thanks Jon for this review.

[@tomschen0626]

Wait till it comes to Singapore, thanks for the review and really helpful.

[@Caballeroshot]

Quite possibly the most positive review of the camera yet. If it gets more people shooting, it's a win for us all.

[@diegoskt5]

Damn this track emotional drama fits só well this session of film photos. Nice job

[@jasonschjerven]

Perfect camera for new film enthusiast! My little sister been asking me for a film camera she can play around with, and with the 72 frames and the different modes - I think this would be the perfect camera for her to try out. Also considering the film cost, developing and scanning prices these days.

[@shamikchoudhury5924]

I feel that all the celebrity film photographer who runs their KZbin channel and lots of followers, uses expensive film cdmeras, should do a favour and lead the way and buy this. That would set an example. As far as I am concerned, price is bit high, and add customs and other charges, it would cost me around $700. Still, I am considering to buy. Why, I don't want to be in the league of naysayers who always wanted new film camera and keep criticizing.

[@suzukitaka4470]

People should make small tapes to convert those "symbols" to actual focusing distances. I think with that, I will be completely sold. I dont know if it is just me, but the sample images from this camera across all KZbinrs have been pretty damn good, and it might be worth paying that expensive 500 bucks. I have never shot film but maybe this can retire my fuji xpro2, go shooting with this and my gfx50s.

[@KingJvpes]

The tape idea is genius

[@stuartconnelly5397]

Some people use a digital camera to learn the distances. If you’re doing street it’s usually the last two settings in your camera. I have an Olympus XA2 and it has three settings. Head and shoulders, family and far distance. Normally I will leave it on the family which is about 5 meters and if I want to catch something special then I’ll do the mountain or far distance.

[@jgrl]

Just want to add that there are actually distance markers below the lens on the front of the camera that get pointed to when you select your focusing distance! A lot of reviewers missed this, so I’ve got to assume Pentax forgot to mention it 😄

[@CMCSenior]

Very good video, nice shots with pertinent subject matter. I hope this is only the beginning of new film camera introductions. Possibly a new improved version in the future. I believe the intro cost is a little high, but maybe that will improve as the newness wears off.

[@darrenpainter2296]

Great video. I have 11 pentax 35mm cameras and I am looking forward to see what pentax comes up with when they release an SLR. It's a stunning looking camera. I've never considered a 1/2 frame before but now I'm reconsidering it.

[@AdamSagePhotography]

That intro was killer 🔥

[@jbezerk]

These images are super sharp, wasn't expecting that from the half frame and surely doesn't compare to the other videos I've seen. Surely having the images properly exposed helped! I have a Nikon AF3 and the lens contains significant barrel distortion and vinetting, and you can't see any of that here, really remarkable. This review changed my mind and I might indeed get me one of these!

[@stuartallenphotos]

For half frame the results you got look really impressive. The lens looks excellent. The colours, contrast and sharpness it produces all look good, especially as you gave it challenging lighting to deal with at times.

[@MichaelErard]

Awesome review! For the high contrast interior scenes in the atrium (around the 6min mark) did you use exposure compensation or this is just the metering? They came out so good! 6:49

[@basicforge]

Thanks for the review of this cool camera! Am I the only person who notices that almost every video I watch now has the words "in no way, shape or form" in it somewhere? This phrase is taking over the English language!

[@Heatwavs]

nice to see a new film camera! gives hope for the future of film photography. btw whats the song in the video? dope stuff

[@KingJvpes]

Let me check!

[@Reggiebphoto]

Great vid brotha. How’s the build material and feel of the dials on the top?

[@KingJvpes]

Solid! Plastic body for the most part

[@popularzero]

Definitely something I'm thinking about picking up. I recently got my Olympus Ace that a former girlfriend sold without my permission and started shooting film with it again. Having a half frame I can throw in my bag with my Digital camera seems like a nice addition. 72 exposures per roll instead of 36 definitely means I'd consider using this a bit more than i do my other cameras. Glad to see those shots turning out nice and sharp.

[@XxFoolishippoxX]

Amazing Video! I pre-ordered my copy, I think it will be perfect for me and the kind of film shooting I like to do. I cannot commend Pentax enough for doing something like this in 2024 and I hope that it sells well enough that they develop a SLR like they said they would (sales pending).

[@stuartconnelly5397]

I actually think this would be great for testing out more expensive film as well. You’ll get practice and more bang for your buck for processing. Prices for colour film is actually cheaper than black and white. A little on the wall at the moment with the Pentax 17, but it does mean that I can smash more street without changing film so often. My Oly XA2 cost about £200 to service, so £500 for a film camera that is new is about in line. I am sure once the other manufacturers catch on prices will drop. Looking forward to Pentax delivering more film cameras, FF and Medium format. Medium format rangefinder would be awesome.

[@ME-ik4ys]

Thanks for a very informative and relaxing, the images look great. Ricoh/Pentax should earn some Kudos for making this camera, what a bold move. But then they different, who else would have released a monochrome DSLR! It will be great to see what else they've got planned. Cheers from over the pond.

[@WaltherLigtvoet]

I love the half-frame format. I own a Canon Demi and it is definitely fun to shoot with it. The half frame format forces me to think about the frame and composition. And the fact that I can get 72 frames out of 36 roll of film is nice as well these days. Would love to see how the Pentax compares in use...

[@cruzkinestudios9882]

Definitely good to see a “new” film camera. Most likely will buy once able to.

[@KingJvpes]

What are your favorite features?

[@cruzkinestudios9882]

@@KingJvpes zone focusing and half frame because film is expensive lol

[@xjuanx92]

Not for me, but really excited for folks getting into film, or even getting into street photography. This camera is perfect to learn from and is I good mix of auto and manual controls to make anyone take a great photo. Pentax did a great job with the design, but more so creating a hit list of what to have on the camera for the market they are targeting. I really hope this takes off and gets more people involved with film. Stoked to see images from these out there.

[@stephanweiskorn6760]

Excellent video 😊!

[@nicklopro]

No not the king! They've gotten to you too! I just put out a scathing review of my pentax 17 review copy yesterday. Now BIG FILM is after me. Though after watching your vid maybe i should give it a second chance. Anyway, in all seriousness thanks for sharing all your photo adventures and being one of the realest #reeldawgies! Minolta Gang!

[@omegaoz]

I’m actually curious, where can I find your review?

[@nicklopro]

@@omegaoz kzbin.info1Cwqhve1IQE?si=svumM51efoBTofxC

[@Capturethelightraw]

Beautiful Camera

[@HandaruSakti]

Pentax 17 is everywhere!!!

[@KingJvpes]

It is! Lol

[@rdmckeever7645]

Good vid. Been using an Oly Pen S half frame for the last two years with both B/W & Portra. Would love to see what the Pentax 17 can do with 3200 B/W at a concert for some 1960s style stage side photos. Would you do that for us before I drop $500 on another half frame camera?

[@Losersluck_]

I was thinking it would be $200. Price seems a little excessive for what it is.

[@nipponiacs]

I have mixed feelings about this camera. I’ve just (re)started with film cameras so I’m still having fun visiting thrift stores, buying cheap 110 for fun, trying different films, so $500 (¥80,000 here) is quite expensive for my hobby at the moment. Besides that, it seems an interesting camera. It’s not for me but probably it’ll make many people getting into film photography. My first camera was a Canon Demi ee17, and I love it.

[@aengusmacnaughton1375]

Looks like you really took to the camera easily and quickly and fit it to your shooting style -- great photos, and I'm really impressed with the exposure and sharpness. Sad about the price -- I understand that Pentax put in a lot of R&D to reinvent/retool what they were doing 20+ years ago, but $500 is too much for me. I'd pay up to $250 for it -- because it definitely looks like a quality product that produces great images, but yeah, $500 is just too much for me. Thanks!

[@davidnoriega7944]

I will get it to support the making of new film cameras 🤝🏼

[@TheRenalicious]

When I first heard it was gonna be a half frame compact camera, my reaction was "Uugh". But the more I look at it, the more I appreciate them making a small, easy to use, high quality point and shoot that includes extra features for playing around and experimenting. Recently I've been eyeing old compact film cameras for travel to compliment my main full frame film / dslr, and this might be just what I need!

[@reviewerscorner1313]

Great time to have a new film camera hit the market

[@bananaskin7527]

One comparing picture taking by what one sees in the viewfinder, and what one sees on the camera body. Looks like the Pentax17 has less to show than my R6 Mark II. And sometimes, that may be bettah. Thank you for the review.

[@aengusmacnaughton1375]

When walking around on the concrete by the ocean, how did you mount the stick for the 360 camera to have the camera up and behind you? Cool perspective!

[@martintxo14]

First of all, great video man, very entertaining. It also changed my view and first opinion about the camera, now it looks fun and easy to use and the quality is great for half frame. The price though... It is still a pass for me but, anyway, many will enjoy it for sure.

[@louhautdavid6451]

Great video. But as beginers is an important part of the public for this camera, it would probably be the only one they own and maybe they'd like to print some photos. What maximum size should they do it in your opinion ? Is it worth it ? I guess it is.

[@simonbernal3934]

Nice video.Your shots of San Francisco are really sharp and colour saturated.The Portra film was perfect in that scenario.Have you shot black and white? If so tell us what you think.The Pentax is a little expensive, so do you think the price tag is justified?Must admit as a film camera lover I would certainly like to own one.

[@josecolon8143]

Great video! I’m getting this puppy. Now could you explain the scanning process to the young mustangs out there?

[@taylorbrawner2052]

Really liking this camera. Also kinda wish they’d stick digital guts in that body and sell it too.

[@keshudioo]

I love my cheap, plastic Kodak Ektar H35, and I really like the fact that something like this is released in 2024. f/3.5! H35 is f/8!

[@CravensPhD]

If I didn’t own a Yashica T4, I would buy one. This camera is for the next generation of photographers.

[@delicrux]

fyi you can also use the slot on the back to add a paper and write the zones on it

[@JDubyafoto]

Back in the days before digital, I was not ever a fan of half-frame cameras because I was doing all of my darkroom work myself and I wanted better quality for printing. To me, 35mm was always a small format and my preferred shooting was with medium format. That being said, the Pentax 17 holds a lot of interest for me. I don't mind limiting casual prints to perhaps 4"x6" and figure it's fine for Instagram and other social media. I just wish it cost a bit less than $500 USD. That's a fair chunk of change for what's basically an advanced point & shoot camera with a good lens. By the way, it's called the Pentax 17 because 17 is just a hair under half the length of a 35mm frame.

[@autisticlife]

I can see the full frame camera in this one, I'll wait for that.

[@tvariuness]

intro music was HARD!!

[@cunninghamster1954]

I'd like to see Pentax take a portion of the revenue they get from initial sales of the Pentax 17, reuse as many parts from it as possible, and give us a Pentax 35 or 40 full frame 35mm film camera. They've already done the difficult research here, they don't need to change the functionality beyond supporting a full frame image with 35mm film, vs. the half frame. Great video, BTW.

[@KingJvpes]

Full 35mm frame would be insane

[@GreenlifeFin]

What ISO film did you use in the first flower photos? They were a bit overexposed innthe bright daylight. But overall with the right film I think the exposures from the camera are really good. And great photos!

[@Doofens]

portra 160

[@gregorioprincipe6838]

The shots are fire.

[@StillSawyerPhotography]

It’s a tad expensive and I wish it was a full 35mm frame but i definitely understand the choices made here. I hope it blows up and sells out so they can give us the 35mm SLR we all want to see!

[@Big.E]

Great video

[@renggapahlawann]

Love the Leica man 🔥❤

[@missingair]

Does anyone know if it has a light meter? Or do we just trust it will take a good pic with the available light?

[@mastertree2956]

How big can i print the halfframe pictures ( with a proper scanner( ?

[@jasonblake5576]

Looks like one sharp lens!!!

[@HiMyNameIs-vv2lp]

Let’s get it

[@KingJvpes]

YOU KNOW WHAT IM SAYIN?!?

[@husshardan3511]

Great pic @17:19 Where was that taken in SF?

[@RaimondiClaudio]

Hi, I’m a newbie and I’ve got this Pentax 17. In order to protect the lens, I’ve bought an UV filter (“Urth”), but I would like to ask wether it could affect the quality of the photos. Thank you.

[@Doofens]

it won't

[@moncilu]

May I ask, have your sample shots been edited? Because they look amazing if they just came out like that.

[@KingJvpes]

Slight exposure correction and contrast

[@moncilu]

@@KingJvpes thx

[@jaredjaster5276]

i kinda want one. but its only barely smaller than my super program with the 50mm on it.

[@ahaka2022]

i hope they make a fixed lens digital camera with lever and AF to replace my epson r-d1s. i gave up film, since there is no film available in any local store, nor do we have a film developers locally. maybe pentax should develop a more friendly digital developing kit.

[@michaelshaw5169]

The Pentax Film Project felt aimed at people who already are into film photography. The challenge I face is wanting to support the cause, but I also feel I can get so much more for myself with $500. I can get a Nikon f3 with maybe two lenses, a Hasselblad body, and so many other substitutes. This is not a hate on the camera, I love it. I simply feel concerned that they may have advertised to the film market with the wrong kind of camera. I want it to succeed, but struggle committing my $500 to an automatic, limited controlled settings camera. I don’t believe $500 is a bad price to charge for the camera with all the R&D that had to be done, I imagine the price could have been much higher. Simply what my $500 can get me is the hard comparison.

[@wenjun_n]

Wish there is an Olympus XA with updated tech of 2024. But this Pentax is quite cool despite some of its quirks

[@fotojobo6719]

Congrats to Pentax for taking the risk for bringing a new film camera to the market. I think the $500 price tag will keep away a lot of the film newbies however and also most of the old-time film shooters.

[@michaelacookePDX]

The focusing distances are listed on the bottom of the lens. Just turn the camera upside down and take a look. Also, Pentax is declining to answer whether or not the lens is glass which, in my opinion, means it's a plastic lens.

[@mallikarjunpasunkili5206]

It is a 3 element, 3 groups glass lens. It is the same construction as Espio Mini and TKO the Pentax Designer already revealed it in the teasers and the lens construction is clearly described in Pentax official website A plastic lens can never go as wide as f3.5, f8 will be the max.

[@michaelacookePDX]

@@mallikarjunpasunkili5206 I can’t find anything from Pentax that says it’s glass. In the BH livestream the Ricoh USA president was asked directly if it’s glass and the answer was “that’s not being disclosed.”

[@mallikarjunpasunkili5206]

@@michaelacookePDX Even Carl Zeiss lens specifications for Sony don't mention the lens Material, that doesn't mean they are plastic, Same goes for Canon L lenses, by default it will be glass, if it is acrylic plastic it will be highlighted like in case of Kodak H35 The specifications in Pentax site clearly mention that it is Espio Minis proven optics (which is a f3.5 cooke triplet glass lens) repurposed for half frame In the end, the IQ is the proof, a plastic lens can never produce such sharp clean images

[@jimpurcell]

I'm in.