It's About Time! My Pentax K-1 Review After Three Years of Use - Affordable Full Frame Camera

[@snappiness]

What is the camera that just *clicks* with you?

[@48foufou]

The Ricoh GX200

[@michaels5166]

Why what else but my K1mk2??????????????????NOTHING else..

[@johnnyc.5979]

For me, it's the Canon 6D (first edition with GPS) full frame, and only $500 for the body. Excellent low light performance. So big and bulky though, don't use it much, thinking of selling it, not sure. But excellent camera all around. FYI, your photos are quite spectacular. You definitely have a talent for making great images. Especially the landscape and astral photos, and you really captured the essence of your children, I'm sure your wife already cherishes those candid moments.

[@couch_potato_v1826]

Fujifilm X-pro 1 and Sony a7iii

[@snappiness]

Had to Google that one. Very cool!

[@mogbaba]

From 2006 and K10D, I have been waiting for a Pentax FF camera. On the road, I was so hopeless, that I considered changing brand. But one lens, stopped me, the FA 77/1.8 Ltd. I updated to K5, and god! How much I love that camera! The K1 came in 2016, but then, my life had been changed so much, that I could not afford it. Five depressing years passed, until yesterday, finally I got my hands on a Pentax K-1 Mark II, Limited silver edition. So, it was the time, put the 77 ltd, my most beloved lens on, and take the first picture with this beautiful beast, of my most beloved person in life, my son. A lot of thanks to Ricoh, for keeping the Pentax brand alive, and for giving us this fantastic camera. Thanks for your great video.

[@snappiness]

Fantastic! I'm glad it finally worked out for you. That's a lens very much on my wishlist. Got a few other things I need first, but it's coming one day soon I'm sure :)

[@dukenukem5768]

I've also had mine for 3 years. It is a brilliant camera with far more functions than I ever want or need. It is a shame that most reviewers now are only interested in using their camera for video; I'm not interested in that and I'd get a real camcorder if I was. Glad that Pentax are concentrating on making solid, weatherproof, kit and not trying to keep up with the Canon/Sony mirrorless video-making crowd.

[@snappiness]

It is a very solid stills camera. Really not lacking anything unless you're a user with a very specific genre that needs specific specs. You're right about all the functions though. I try new things on it all the time and still haven't taken full advantage of it yet.

[@truthseeker3536]

And now we hear about mirrorless bodies over heating and breaking down, because people are overusing the video function on them.

[@photovideomusic]

As someone who jumped off the Pentax bandwagon in 2013 when I really needed to go full frame and it looked like they'd just never deliver, and then eventually fell away from photography altogether... I've recently gotten back into it big time and when I realised that there is not only this but the K1-II... I think I have to get it out of pure nostaligia and completionism. Great review!

[@markusesslinger]

It's refreshing to see a photographer with a nuanced opinion. So many "influencers" tell us that full frame is the best and mirrorless is the future - and many buyers adopt this opinion without thinking. In reality, there is no definitive truth on either point, and it all depends on personal needs and preferences. I hope it pays off in the long run for Pentax not to follow the hype and instead build on enthusiasm for photography. For a professional, in the end it's all about having a decent image, and things like eye autofocus can help with that. However, most people are not professional photographers, and if the camera does everything right automatically, the challenge dwindles and with it the fun.

[@SummersSnaps]

I proud to say I learned photography on the K-1, and in the years to come I think history will look back at this camera as being an absolute classic.

[@BrettADay]

The Pentax K1 will go down as one of my favorite cameras of all time. It felt like an extension of me. It made me slow down and appreciate the art of photography more than any other camera. In the line of work I do, I get to use every camera from every manufacturer under the sun and I can honestly say that for stills, the K1 is incredibly hard to beat. Unfortunately for work, I had to move on from mine. It will be sorely missed. Nice review.

[@snappiness]

Nice perspective, thanks for sharing!

[@cameronboyd397]

Older video, but I've watched it three times now heading up to my purchase of a barely-off-the-lot K1 Mark II. This video makes me emotional. I've forwarded it to my family. Love your work. (Also getting the Pentax 150-450 in with this deal. Can you imagine how stoked I am? Three more sleeps!) Have a K-70, and an excessive amount of vintage glass, mostly Takumars. I feel blessed to now be getting this camera and lens.

[@wabisabiprod263]

Really cool to watch this juxtaposed with the K3 Mark III announcements

[@snappiness]

Yeah, that wasn't planned on purpose but interesting timing. I didn't think the k3III was going to finally be released for a while still. Glad to see it out in the light now. :)

[@unbroken1010]

Is it released?

[@unbroken1010]

@@wabisabiprod263 really haven't even seen it come up for sale

[@tjompen1968]

The K-1 is a favorite. It is with me a lot, got it when it was released in 2016. It has been banged up a lot but still gives perfect results. I also have my Canon 5D MK1 with a 50/1.8 that I use often because it is fun and gives impressive IQ for beeing so old.

[@mursejoyy]

Thank you for making this video, it is such a great camera that needs more recognition out there. Love my K-1 and look forward to shooting Pentax for many years to come.

[@geocubano]

I have been shooting with Pentax since the K1000 which I got forty years ago! Now as a working Professional Photographer I have a Pentax K1 & the K1 mk2 and I love them. I also have in my Pentax Collection the K10, K20, K7, K3 & K5 and use them all. IMHO, for me and what I do (Portraits, Wedding & Concert Photography) the Pentax FF totally fits my shooting style!

[@snappiness]

Yeah, the K-1 is fantastic for portraits :)

[@tonygarrett7214]

Excellent review: honest, informative and entertaining. You have a gift for making the complex simple. Very rare in most camera reviews. I was once an ardent film Pentaxian but although I recently bought a Canon EOS 6D mark 2, I’m sorely tempted to return to the Pentax fold!

[@mymagicmurals]

I have. From my Canon 70 D which i still use to the Pentax KD which I'm loving. But now im looking at this K1 because i have a colllection of vintage Pentax lenses

[@Paddy3443]

I've only had my K-1 since November '20, although there hasn't been much opportunity to get out it's been a pleasure to use when i have. Beautiful images, feels great and easy to use.

[@snappiness]

Hopefully more opportunities soon!

[@117775EM]

Man...this video was food for my soul. I feel the way you conveyed in your detail of what the Pentax K-1 means to you and how it makes you feel. The way one feels when handling a camera can inspire and coax the highest expression of what lies within. I have been admiring the K-1 and now the K3iii. Only several cameras I have owned have made me feel this way, my Leica Q, Sigma DP2 Merrill, and Fuji XH-1. Don't get me wrong...I enjoy the images that my Nikon z7 produces. It doesn't inspire me to pick it up the way I did with those cameras.

[@snappiness]

It is tough to balance practical yet inspiring cameras. Sometimes it's good to have both sometimes. One to get the job done and one to use when you're in a slump. Because I don't push my photography very far right now the K-1 fits both those roles. But if I was needing better AF or video I'd want to look for another main body and keep another inspiring camera on the side.

[@steverobinson9801]

I was lucky to be able to purchase the K-1 in May 2016 the first day it was on sale in the US. It is one of my favorite Pentax cameras. I have a collection of old Pentax lenses with some from 1958. They all work wonderfully on the K-1. I have also used the Canon D6 and the Nikons D700 and D810. The K-1 is still my favorite.

[@stevecox8576]

I’ve been very intrigued with Pentax DSLRs (though I’ve mainly shot with Canon and Nikon). I really like their extremely rugged, weather-resistant builds, and with their pleasingly old-school design. I’m totally convinced, after watching your very enjoyable-and pleasantly non-technical-video, that that Pentax K-1 (Mk II) I’ve been contemplating would be a capable photographic tool. (By the way, I LOVE your imagery. And, further, your low-key narration wonderfully conveys your appreciation for Pentax.)

[@mikedimimd]

Your channel is good for my soul

[@SokolHazizi]

I totally agree, the music the ambience, the low voice pitch, the scenery... Quite soothing!

[@snappiness]

Thanks :)

[@ivanlupi5123]

Perfect description of how I feel about my k1, holding a Sony is just awful, but also necessary when you need eye autofocus and writing speed, otherwise, it’s back to the k1 and 15-30.

[@snappiness]

That's pretty much it. I use a lot of other camera brands, so I am well aware of certain areas where Pentax is 5-10 years behind in tech. But for when that doesn't matter, the most fun and best experience I've had shooting has been on a Pentax. And that's gotta be worth something :)

[@RobertHalvarsson]

Pentax user since K100D, now I use the K5D. Still using it. Excellent system.

[@SokolHazizi]

No mister, you are not exaggerating! The display mechanism is just from another world. I mean no other manufacturer has done anything comparable to it. In fact, I wish there was some article about how they came by it. That said, your love for the K1 is totally justified.

[@snappiness]

Haha, oh good. It really does work very well. Very practical.

[@fricki1997]

As I've heard another reviewer put it jokingly: "The K-1 is the only DSLR with a built-in handle" It really seems incredibly robust for a fold-out screen. I can't begin to imagine how they managed to weather-seal all those moving joints as well.

[@williamrodriguezmswlcsw8119]

I still love and use my Sony A7ii rocking a wide variety of vintage glass daily.

[@lelanddyer9461]

Bought my K1 used. Had 11K actuations and saved me $500 off the list price of a K1 II. I can't agree with you more on how freaking awesome the K1 is. It could only really be surpassed, IMO, by the very best Canon (1D) or Nikon (D6) has to offer. Paired with the battery grip and my Asahi 50 1.4, it's a match made in heaven.

[@geofftonks8960]

been using K1 for a long time now, since 2017, had several other Pentax before it but grew into the K1, most satisfying aspect is I'm still using glass i bought for film and it is so good. There is just no reason to buy new glass, especially the primes.

[@Danny_Boel]

just ordered one today ☺ I would rather have bought second hand but there are 't many to find where I live and now I get 5 year warranty. I had a number of Pentax DSLR's since 2009 (*ist Dl, Ds, Kx,Kr) the last one being the K 50 which was the 1st one to break down on me, (apperture block failure) but it is still perfectly usable and produces images I am happy with. Through the years I have been collecting older (cheap☺) Pentax F lenses I plan on using on the K1, I got the 135mm f2.8, 50mm, f1.7and 2 zooms, 35-70 and 35-135

[@matthieuzglurg6015]

had the same feeling when I bought a second hand Fujifilm X-T1 a few months back. When shooting was just kind of a hobby but you know, just amateur stuff when I had my Canon M50, with the Fuji it really became what I want to do of my free time. bought a camera sling, a cheap 35mm prime and the X-T1 stays on my side when ever I leave the house. It's a complete joy to use, produce killer images with beautiful colors, is small, rugged, satisfying to use with control dials everywhere, and is a transformer when it comes to form factor. I can add the additional grip I bought and one of my big zoom lenses and it fills my hand and weight as much as a DSLR, or I can remove it, put a small prime on it and fit in my jacket pocket. I might upgrade to an X-T2 one day, but I don't feel like it will happen anytime soon. Even if it does, I'll still use the X-T1. You know love at fist sight? Well here that's love at first shutter release

[@snappiness]

That's great. I owned an xpro1 for a while and had a similar experience. It was shocked how exciting/fun it was to use. Really nice build quality. Felt like an experience rather than just something to manage. If I wasn't in love with Pentax more I think Fuji would be it for sure for me.

[@tomjanowski8584]

It's nice to see someone who loves Pentax. I don't think the company gets enough love even though, from what I have seen and read, their cameras are awesome. When I was shopping for my first dslr back in 2008, I was upgrading from a Fuji point and shoot. I was driving myself crazy with all the research I was doing because I really wasn't narrowing down my choice. Out of Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Olympus, I though both Pentax and Olympus had camera features that distinguished themselves from the popular Canons and Nikons. I think for Pentax it was great ergonomics and weather sealing and for Olympus it was the smaller size and lighter weight of the 4/3 format. I decided I wanted to buy from a locally owned camera shop and thought that they final test was going to be how the cameras felt when I held them. I went into the camera shop on a Saturday morning and was very disappointed immediately. First, the shop was packed with people and there wasn't enough staff on hand. Second, this camera shop did not sell Pentax cameras. The final disappointment was the clear bias towards Nikon and Canon. They said everything they could to discourage me from considering Olympus. In the end, I bought a Canon and 12 years later I bought another Canon mostly because I had invested in several Canon lenses. However, I always wonder if I should have bought a Pentax. I occasionally run across a Pentax shooter and their passion for their camera really makes me wonder. While I am thoroughly happy with my Canon system, I am far from passionate about it.

[@shred3005]

I had been dreaming for years that Pentax would release a full frame DSLR as I had Pentax SLRs from the 80s and 90s so I got the K-1 as soon as it was released. I truly believe it was go down in history as one of the classic DSLRs like the Canon 5D. I have Fuji & Olympus mirrorless cameras as well. They are small and fun and discrete for street but they don’t have the great ergonomics, features or stunning IQ that the K-1 has. It’s also wonderful to use vintage Pentax and Takumar primes. My latest is a mint K 135mm f/2.5. When I took a two month holiday trekking around villages, cities and countryside in the snow and damp of a deep European winter the K-1 was a rugged, weather sealed flawless companion that I could rely upon everyday. And the built in GPS adds another dimension to organising and searching your images. I hope it lasts at least as long as my original Pentax *istD (purchased in January 2004 and still going strong) as I have no intention of ever parting with the K-1. While I use other cameras for different purposes, none of them are as complete as the K-1 is.

[@class_a]

The K-1 has excellent ergonomics that add up to an intangible quality that makes it much more fun to use than one would expect. It is a reliable partner that injected a lot of joy into photography for me. There was nothing wrong with the K-5 II I've been using before, it is a great camera in its own right, but in some way the K-1 ups the fun level.

[@themagicallandscape]

One of my favorite camera bodies over the past 6 or 7 years. My needs have changed since I had it, but the IQ was great, built like a tank, and the resolution was in a nice little sweet spot.

[@jasonandrews7355]

Great video! I shoot a Nikon D800, which definitely has a ton of similarities, although perhaps fewer hi tech features. Being able to use vintage glass natively is massive bonus for both systems!

[@snappiness]

Agreed!

[@Romeo-kp8tc]

Pentax K1 Mark 2, never regretted buying it, I'm still learning but what a camera.I recommend it to anyone who loves landscape photography, or portrait photography.🤠🇦🇺

[@snappiness]

Three years later I am still learning it too :)

[@unbroken1010]

? It's a little out of my pay range you don't think the original K1 will hold up?

[@Romeo-kp8tc]

@@unbroken1010 If thats in your pay range . A little slower in auto focus but still takes excellent pics. Not the best in movie mode but I didn't buy for that🤠🇦🇺

[@DeCaboRojoPR]

You do amazing work. Loved all the shots and the feeling they capture. Excellent work!

[@Deetroiter]

I recently picked up a k1 ll (Pentax user for life!) and really enjoyed the video! I'm curious to ask, when you're shooting outside in the cold muggy weather, what's your best method for bringing the camera back indoors where it's warm so it doesn't get coated in condensation?

[@markbollen8052]

I've had my k1 since 2016, bought on a whim like you after reading it had won the camera of the year here in Australia. It replaced my Pentax 67, when film and darkroom costs and supplies were getting too much and difficult to source, so I went digital. My expectations were more than met. The astrotracer function is magic. And the shot on the left (my cover) is about 40 shots taken with my k1 with 50mm lens, stitched together of an impossibly large vista to big to capture in just one shot. (The Wollomumbi falls, while dry). It takes beautiful overlapped images for generating 3D models in dreadful lighting conditions, showing up detail that I didn't notice with the naked eye. So I am uber pleased with my purchase and it still gives wonderful service.

[@snappiness]

Awesome! Sounds like you've gotten some great use out of it. I can't imagine replacing mine. Works great!

[@markbollen8052]

@@snappiness Yes it has more than earned its keep. I can't see much difference in the mk2. So I will be keeping the mk1

[@YDM.]

I had the opportunity to use this camera for a few days, although I'm Nikon user I admit that this a really good piece of gear worthing every single penny.

[@kaminobatto]

I love the K1-II. I have the silver edition and I just love the retro vibe I get from it. I also have my custom dial always set to ISO, so I everything I need to take a photo is within reach and within a close proximity to my thumb or index fingers. I love the simplicity, yet the the complexity it offers. A perfect balance for purists and tech enthusiasts.

[@LeeIveson]

Great video bud, there's no denying the K1, its just a beast. One day I may own one.

[@snappiness]

I think it'd be fun for you to at least try out. At the end of the day my pictures don't look any better than with my k3 or k5. pixel peeping, sure, but the actual keeper pics and prints. Those cameras are just so good as they are. But it is a nice camera. :)

[@kubotwostringz]

Did you share with us what the defect is? 🙂 Did I miss it?

[@grumpytrumpy8015]

Nicely done & well said. I completely agree with your thoughts on photography in general, it really can become a form of meditation or at least introspection. I have been using Pentax equipment for a long time and only recently moved to the K1 and new Pentax glass. I get excited just thinking about getting this camera out into the world and what it may give me. The only issue I have is that I cannot get my camera to adjust I.S.O with the quick access dial so I just use the normal button. Love your low light images and video.

[@petepictures]

Just 2 weeks ago I bought a FF Nikon D800 and very happy with it. Mirrorless is nice, but SLR has special experience.

[@garyguest1999]

Nice review. Have a K-1 and K-3 plus the little Q. You are quite right. The K-1 is quite an amazing camera. I have been in love with it since I first got it. Awesome gear.

[@kiwijonowilson]

Yeah I love my K-1. I have had it for 4 years now and still don't have any cravings for any other camera - this is unusual for me! Since I have had the K-1, I have not used my K-5 (my backup body) in anger (except for maybe a couple of timelapses to save shutter cycles on the K-1). Before getting the K-1, I saw tilting screens as a liability and so it wasn't a feature I gave any importance to (in fact it was a negative). However now its one of my favorite features on the K-1, I use it all the time for awkward compositions and it has proven to be rugged. Pixel shift is cool but also don't use it (although it would be great for those doing studio work). GPS and astrotracer I don't often use and are more of a nice to have for me.Ergonomics are just the best. Other features I love: being able to set exposure times up to many minutes (available in bulb mode), lights to light up back and front of camera at night, red screen mode for night, hyper program mode (although other brands are starting to catch up on this feature), compatible with all Pentax lenses (and can use full frame mode with crop lenses - which is often quite useful even if you have to crop a bit later). As far a negatives go the only thing I'm not fond of, and this is not unique to the K-1 (but more common with FF cameras in general), is shutter shock. It shows up with some lenses when using shutter speeds 1/60 -> 1/250 and manifests itself as small amount of blur (even when using a tripod). Fortunately its not too bad (and non existent with heavier lenses) and Pentax have now added a "E shutter" mode in LV that eliminates it (I leave it on most of the time for tripod work).

[@snappiness]

Good list. I've heard people talk about the shutter shock but I haven't noticed it. I think because I just don't pay that close attention, haha. Good tip though for that E shutter mode.

[@christopherward5065]

I have just bought one I can’t wait for it to arrive! Thanks for the review chock full of such wonderful images.

[@snappiness]

Congrats! It's a great camera!

[@Mr_Bean]

same, I am still loving my "clicks" which is Pentax K1 as well

[@billvinson7859]

I have a K-70 and a K-1 Mk 2. I love them for Astrophotography and landscape photography.

[@FrancescoCoppola]

Here I am, Pentax K 1 shooter and happily so for Portrait Photografy! Cheers! :)

[@snappiness]

Fantastic!

[@doncoombez]

I have way too many cameras, including older Pentax DSLRs and Lumix 4/3. The one I LOVE though is my K1 ii - it's the camera I love to use the most, especially with older mf lenses. I find it's the perfect camera to slow things down with, take your time to think about what you want to compose - the live view works brilliantly with manual focussing. For me though it's the feeling of it in your hand, buttons perfectly placed. It feels so good I find myself wanting to (and actually) hold it when I'm not even taking pics (sad but true!)

[@Red_dead_I_I]

Great review. i am still stuck with my k3 classic and only invested my money in prime lenses... this year i want to save up for a better body, don't know if i should wait for something new from pentax? or just go with the k3 mark iii.. i never used a full frame dslr

[@j.c.m5168]

Just bought a K1 for an Iceland trip. VERY excited

[@snappiness]

Cool! Be sure and get lots of practice before your trip so that you're not stuck in front of an awesome scene not knowing how to change some setting! (This has happened to me many times with new cameras)

[@j.c.m5168]

@@snappiness decided to buy last second. 😅 But I'll have about 2 weeks to spend HOURS with it everyday learning how to navigate. Got a whole bunch of lenses too...some primes, and three zooms (all 2.8) that span 20mm-->200mm, so should be pretty well set. 😀

[@snappiness]

@@j.c.m5168 well have lots of fun! Share your pictures when you're finished!

[@MotoRich900]

Love my Pentax K1ii, onto my second year and still on our honeymoon!

[@snappiness]

Good way to describe it! Me too!

[@Gynra]

I've had my K-1 since it was first released and love it. I'm now waiting for a K-3 III, but my K-1 won't be gathering dust when it arrives.

[@snappiness]

Very cool! New camera day is exciting :)

[@mgrajkumar1]

What you recommend now. Pentax k1 or k3. My preference landscape and portrait

[@Gynra]

@@mgrajkumar1 For landscape, definitely the K-1: It's hard to find a better landscape camera. For portraits the choice is a little harder, but I would still go K-1, particularly with the 77 mm Limited. A K-3 III with a 43 mm Limited, or the new 50mm f1.4 gives the K-1 a run for its money, however.

[@67comet]

Whoop.. my K1 Mark ii will be here TOMORROW! Love your channel, and can't wait to see what else you come up with.

[@NIKONOVICH1990]

Pentax... The best way to escape the canonikosony hype. Especially the A7 mark this and that. I had the chance to work with the k-5 for a while, and Pentax are beasts.

[@hakonsoreide]

I haven't had a full-frame camera since I sold my Canon 5D after downsizing to m43 and eventually ending up with my current Panasonic FZ1000 as my only camera for the last 9 years, but there is something about the Pentax K-1 I find very appealing that makes me consider looking out for good second-hand deals on it. I think the FZ1000 is a great camera that actually covers most of my photographic needs really well, but sometimes I miss having a proper DSLR with amazing balance in the hands, a supersharp prime and that lovely full-frame look. Also the great pixel-shift mode in the K-1 just brings it to a whole other level for still life photography

[@mangodirt]

Your Pentax videos really have me considering getting into this line someday. Ive had a Nikon D7100 for a few years now as my first "real" camera and I really enjoy it, but these Pentax cameras seem so interesting!

[@superbug1977]

The images you've shared in this video are quite good. I've never owned or even used the K-1....but it intrigues me every time it gets mentioned. My go-to camera for vintage full frame is the Canon 5D classic. I can't find anything else that produces those colors. I think the Canon 6D is the runner up. Anyway, the K-1 reminds me of the medium format tanks that Pentax is still famous for--the 67 comes to mind. They look the same to me. They look hefty enough to use in self defense. Good video.

[@jooyoonchung3593]

I don’t shoot Pentax, but I do enjoy shooting my “ancient” Nikon D610. Sure, it’s pretty much the most basic full frame DSLR out there, but boy, does it feel just right in my hands. I shoot with other brands as well - mostly mirrorless these days - but there’s just something about that old, heavy DSLR that keeps me from selling it. The grip, the heft, the image quality, and my favorite part - the clack of the mirror and shutter. None of the mirrorless bodies come anywhere close to providing that visceral photography experience. Anyway, now you’ve got me hankering to try a K1. Thanks, lol :)

[@TheManFrayBentos]

I've been wanting a K1 for years, but the prices of used ones remain stubbornly high. I have a reluctance to spend overmuch on used cameras, so started looking at the other one that grabbed me when it came out - the Canon 5d, and a couple of years ago found that the prices of the 5Dmk2 had fallen to an acceptable level, so bought one of them. There was one thing missing though - compatability with legacy glass, which I have a lot of. The K1 would have scratched that itch, same as the K10D and K20D I have, which happily stop down on shooting MF. Realising the cheapest way to get some smooth stopdown action was to go Nikon, I bought a D600 and happily shoot old Nikon glass and multiple Tamron AD-2 lenses. Still want a K1 though, but prices remain stubbornly high. Pretty much the same as three years ago.

Canon 5D first gen. Got it for less than $150 and still shoots amazing photos.

[@snappiness]

That is probably the best FF camera for the price. I have never owned one but know many who have. Excellent images.

@@snappiness Stay safe and looking forward to your next video.

[@MichaelRusso]

I want one. Someday I will have one. Had to buy the 150-450 lens first. For me: Lenses come first. Camera bodies second....

[@Ash1876]

I started out with the K 30 in 2012. Then I upgraded to the K3..now I have the KP and Wow...I love this camera. I have loved all my Pentax cameras and I'm hoping to add the K1 to my gear some day!!!

[@snappiness]

Great! I hope to try the KP one day. Thanks for commenting :)

[@Ash1876]

@@snappiness you really should! I'd love to hear your thoughts on it as well.

[@mymagicmurals]

Hi James, Thanks for this very pleasant video to watch. As others have said, your presentation and style and voice are so easy on the eye and ear. I have recently bought the Pentax KP (used) and i love it but now looking at the K1 to enjoy FF and have to use my M42 and PK vintage lenses. I'm a hobbyist stills photographer. So I need your thoughts here please. There's now the K1 mark 2 out there on offer (used) Would i be better off paying the extras for the mark 2 Or rather spend the saving on a good lens? Your thoughts and anyone's would be much appreciated Thank you

[@snappiness]

I don't think the K-1II is worth extra money, unless it's the same price or just a hair more. The improvements are marginal enough to not make any sort of practical difference. The only things the K-1II add are some high ISO noise improvements, a handheld pixelshift mode, and some improvements to AF. Nothing big in any of those areas, however.

[@mymagicmurals]

@snappiness Thank you very much, James. You've confirmed what I was thinking.

[@southendsites]

I have a K1. quality is all there, slightly slower to use than My Pentax K-x but Pentax backwards compatibility is green before becoming fashionable. I have SMC Pentax-F 28mm F2.8, SMC Pentax-F 50mm F1.4 and SMC Pentax-F 135mm F2.8 [IF] so of course can take advantage with K1. SMC Pentax-A 20mm F2.8 is again fairly useful with K1.

[@chrismann5070]

I use a canon 1d mark 111 a tank simple to use big buttons you can press while wearing gloves. Teamed up with canon 24~70 2.8 mark2. Great images does what it says on tin. Perfect.

[@pblogic007]

I'be been shooting with a k20d for many years and I love it. I love the ergonomics and the controls. The only thing I don't love is the glacial autofocus. I'm thinking about going semi-pro for things like portraits etc. Will the k1 mkii be camera enough for light professional tasks? I really want to stay with Pentax. Would you wait for the mkIII?

[@thomasijontichy5651]

If your peeve is the autofocus and seeing you're still on a k20d, just pick up a used K-3 (talking 400 quid here for a really good body) and be happy? And yes most certainly a K-1, any K-1, will be good enough for light professional tasks. K-1 is a phenomenal portrait camera.

[@ravikumar-ld1wb]

Is Pentax k-1 recommended for these days? Or any other replacement for this?

[@john2wheels860]

Man, those are my sentiments on the K1 almost exactly. It's just such a joy to use. Beautiful video too, man! That intro was gorgeous.

[@snappiness]

Had to do a double take. I was like, I know this guy... Haha. Thanks!

[@john2wheels860]

@@snappiness haha shoot. Forgot to switch channels before I commented!

[@snappiness]

@@john2wheels860 I have done that before too. Or on my wife's account or something haha.

[@john2wheels860]

@@snappiness lol so easy to do. I get a notification and watch a video and don't realize what account I'm on half the time anymore, haha.

[@Kim_Alexander]

What about the focusing screen in the camera are there any split image that help you focusing with manual lenses?

[@victor.shpakov]

Terrific work! I always liked Pentax, and you make me crave it. I personally use Canon 5Ds, bought it new due to massive price drop several months ago, was cheaper than K-1 in my region. I like the feeling of this professional Canon very much as well. I do miss unique limited Pentax lenses, however. Good luck :)

[@snappiness]

Fantastic. I owned a canon (APSC) for a while and really enjoyed the images out of it. Right now I am enjoying with a Canon 40d that I got for $50. I've always enjoyed the Canon colors, as they say :)

[@the40thstep]

I feel like Pentax is going the Leica way. You either appreciate the legacy and the craftsmanship behind the product or you are after the specs. For me, Leica and Pentax are just like that. There is something special about them. It is about the whole experience and everything that goes with it. In a way, I get the same feeling when I drive Ferrari Testarossa or Dino or the original 911. I don't really care about the tech but about the connection that they provide with the environment - in the case of those care it is the road, in the case of these cameras it is the joy of taking every picture rather spraying and praying or relying on autofocus....it is about the process of photography without the hassle of developing the film....

[@carlomolina576]

k50 is old school (not really) but it's kinda old to purchase batteries for instance but, I love that camera

[@joelee24]

I am still playing with my K3 Gen 1, it's been 8yrs. since I had it and still ticking today, all the buttons and dials became unresponsive and stiff, especially the on/off dial became stiff to move. I wished the K1 had the KP style dial that more easy to turn even when it got stiff in time then I will have no complaint !

[@rocksandrocks]

Wonderful video. If I ever make the jump to full frame this is definitely on my list.

[@lueniopue2488]

This Camera is on my radar but I have the Nikon d700. Only 12 megapixel but for the price it is a beast. I paired it with a 50mm f/1.4 or the 85mm f/1.8 and it’s really great Great video as always.

[@snappiness]

Megapixels are overrated :) the d700 is a great camera from what I hear. It's hard to get an affordable 85mm af lens for pentax, so that setup sounds perfect. I love my nikon d80 with the 50 1.8 I had.

[@lueniopue2488]

@@snappiness I have to confess that the camera that I really love to use is the Nikon d70 paired with a 50mm 1.8 To document my family daily life it’s really great and I don’t need more. A bit less convenient than you GR first generation but less heavy than my d700

[@hanfei6871]

Every single cell phone in the world takes bigger pictures than Nikon D700

[@lueniopue2488]

@@hanfei6871 but you will never get a better bokeh and a better raw files du to the small sensor

[@hanfei6871]

@@lueniopue2488 I was kidding... ye D700 takes fabulous pictures, old sensors are just built differ

[@jdebultra]

For digital, probably the Canon 5D Classic, just a straight forward, get out of your way shooting experience. The Fujifilm X100V is the other one, straight forward aperture, shutter speed, ISO. I would love to get a K1, kind of a dream camera. Maybe I'll sell off a bunch of gear and dive in at some point.

[@roygardiner2229]

Fab! Lovely images. I can't justify the expense but would love to have a K-1. I have Pentax film cameras and k-mount lenses so that explains my interest. Meanwhile I use what are essentially point and shoot cameras, bought at thrift stores for less than $10 each.

[@earth9258]

I got lucky and pick up a used one for $600. It’s been great

[@adamdevito8376]

2-K1’s 85mm 1.4 A Series 50mm 1.2 A “” 30mm 2.8 K “” Very! happy with these three lenses, but considering that 43mm so I have one auto focus when I’m shooting video remotely.

[@MarcoElliau]

Thanks for your videos, very artistic.. I'm poor, but I'd love to try Pentax cameras, should I get a K10D (cheaper) or go directly for the K1 (expensive).. how big is the difference of picture quality ? or maybe in between with the K70 ? :)

[@snappiness]

Hmm, those are all pretty different cameras for more reasons than image quality. The K10D will take lovely images. It's limited in the sense that you can't go very high ISO without more noise, the file resolution is smaller, autofocus is slower, drive modes are slow etc. Some of that may not be important at all to you depending what you're doing! The k70 is great bang for the buck. A more modern consumer DSLR with lots of great functions.goibg to faster in every way than the K10D, and much better at high ISOs. The k1 is amazing of course and quite a lot of camera.

[@MarcoElliau]

@@snappiness Thank you ! I guess I'll start with the K10D then, I've found one for 100$ with 2 lenses included. :)

[@kevinmarkham6385]

since you've owned a lot of pentax cameras, which one do you think is the most similar to the K1 in terms of controls and ergonomics? I'm thinking of getting a k1 but would like to dip my toes into pentax first.

[@snappiness]

Since it is their first FF camera, that isn't another one that's exactly like it. The closest would be the APSC Pentax K-3. Some of the button and dial layouts are the same, and the menu system has a similar look and feel, the grip while on a smaller body is a similar design principle. So you would be heading in the right direction, but the K1 is much larger, has many new dials and buttons, and white a bit heavier.

[@CyclingOffToSomewhereIDK]

Wow, until this video I'd forgotten the name of the first Pentax dslr I owned (the ist DL). I have a K70 now, so I've yet to step up to full frame. Perhaps soon, my abilities and desire are coming back to me after a long layoff. Thanks for the video 🙂

[@fricki1997]

Very nice video! My only regret is that it isn't longer. After being introduced to Pentax and DSLR photography by the trusty K10D, I set a K-3 ii or K-1 as my next "goal", even though it may be many months or even years before I've scounged up enough money for them. The Astrotracer feature is something that's also very interesting to me, and just one of those features that makes Pentax a bit more special.

[@snappiness]

Both are getting cheaper, but the k-3ii should be very reachable soon! I think a few people are moving on from it to the newly announced camera. Also I don't know if you've seen the k-70. It has astrotracer built in. The KP I think needs the ogps add on module to make it work.

[@fricki1997]

​@@snappiness I hope so. Also, as far as I know, the K70 doesn't have built-in GPS? at least I can't find any hints about that online. And even if, at least here (Northern Germany), there are few used Pentax cameras available, so much so that importing from Japan and paying the ~25% import fees might be the best option. In that case I'd rather spend the 100-150€ extra for the K-3 ii over the K-70. I'll just stick with the K10D for now, and learn more about photography :) As I've heard often, it's usually the photographer holding back the camera, and not the other way around.

[@snappiness]

@@fricki1997 you're right, my bad. I owned a k70 for a week and shot astro.with it side by side my K-1. I got confused and thought I remembered shooting astrotracer on the k70, but I was thinking of my k-1. In that case then I do think the k3II sounds really nice. Meanwhile the K10D will do just fine. I still take mine out quite a bit :)

[@fricki1997]

@@snappiness They say the CCD has a special look of its own. And for a 15(!) year old piece of tech, it still produces stunning pictures, as long as it's not too dark.

[@danigonzalez4299]

As usual, very nice done and put together, entertaining, informative and overall it just passes super fast for me so when I watch it is like "oh, is it already ending?" Great story, great review (honest and sincere) and I loved it! You made me will one. Even though I do not need one and I always said "i don't want a FF, I don't need a FF camera."

[@snappiness]

I don't need one either. But it is a nice camera haha. When I look at my favorite pics between my k3 and k1, there is no difference. Both are great at the end of the day.

[@jose9630]

I want to purchase this Camera, I feel as if Pentax is highly underrated. I see a lot of your images have vignette. are you adding that in Post or are the lenses doing that? Please let me know

[@snappiness]

It's a great price nowadays too. The last 6 months I've seen several for ~$800. I do add vignettes in post for some images, but others could be the lens. I shoot a lot of vintage lenses that aren't perfect in the edges.

[@rATRIJS]

There definitely is that one camera that’s made just for you. Sadly it’s not a Pentax in my case although I wish it was. My main camera is an even older camera than K1 - Leica M9. It’s bad in many ways especially when compared to more modern cameras but it just feels right. And produces images that I struggle to get with any other camera. At least in digital. That being said. I can’t live without Pentax so from time to time I shoot with Pentax K10D. It’s also amazing. Best Pentax SLR that I have used ( but I haven’t used any modern ones ). Sure it’s only 10mpix but the output is still great. I mostly use it for macro stuff as macro is not really a thing easy to do with M9 or rangefinders in general.

[@snappiness]

I have never held a Leica before, digital or otherwise! Maybe one day. Sounds like a good setup you have going there. :)

[@brucecggallagher1949]

perfectly, sensible review.

[@RCBladeKing]

I’d have to say my griii has brought back a lot of the joy of shooting. It’s nice to have it in the pocket. Brings me to my next comment, I bought a d810. Great camera. I think I may ditch it for a k-1. The Pentax glass is so juicy. Paired with the k1. 🤤

[@Stesalti]

I'm thinking about it so thanks for this review. I do not know, however, which optics to buy ... if I had to take one for a bit of everything, do you think the 43 mm has a good quality? I have analog pentax mf ... 645 and 67. that you know there are adapters?

[@snappiness]

There are adapters down to the K mount I'm pretty sure but I have no experience with them. The 43mm is very high quality in my opinion and a lovely pairing with the k1

[@774duke]

Never owned a Pentax but I can still easily sense how great they are. K-1 is still a beast

[@frankp7798]

I have around ten lenses for Pentax that were designed for full frame (Tamron 90/2.8, Pentax 35/2, etc.), but the majority of them were designed a long time ago. From everything I could gather on the Internet, there are really few lens choices that give you really very sharp results from wide open (Sigma 35/1.4, and you need a modification for that, don‘t you?). The DAF 15-30 and 24-70 are designed by Tamron, and used here in Germany you pay still around 900 USD for the Pentax version, whereas you get a Tamron for Nikon mount 15-30 for 500 to 600. As for old manual glass I have (A 28/2.8, K 28/3.5, A 70-210/4, etc.), I would love to try them out on the K-1, but focusing them with confidence would require me to use the camera in live view only. And in that situation I might just as well get a Sony A7 series camera and use them with an adapter. Having said that, should I get a K-1 for 600 USD one day, I might not be able to resist, despite everything I have just said. At the moment, the lowest price here is around 900 USD, though, so it might be another two to three years…

[@kamilpotato3764]

I thought Pentax dslr's got function to help with manual glass. Snap on focus or something like that.

[@ArtDecoArtNouveau]

@@kamilpotato3764 "catch in focus"

[@AdamCasada]

Definitely an amazing camera. I recently decided I needed faster burst, better buffer, and good AF, so I bought into Sony. I planned to sell the K-1. Now, I'm not sure that I can. Just too good, not sure I can part with it.

[@RichardBO9]

One of the first camera's I used was a K-1000. Tough as a tank. I have always admired Pentex from afar. I currently own a Nikon D850. A couple of months ago I rented a K1 for a week, just to see what it was like. I love, love, love the ergonomics. I also loved the back screen. I am not as agile as I once was and I shoot a lot of low angle wide shots. Even though the D850 screen flips up, its pretty useless for vertical shots. The K1 wins that department handle. I am seriously considering a switch.

[@snappiness]

The D850 is a great camera from what I hear. Hard to beat. But yeah, I know what you mean about handling a camera. That's my number one reason for owning a Pentax right now. For myself it feels very good.

[@davidsirr9910]

I use a Pentax MX and a MZ-S and enjoy both. I hate the cost of film! Have a Mamiya 645 too. Digital? I use an Olympus Pen f….

[@michaelc4917]

How does the kp compare to the k1 in terms of colors and tonality? If you could only keep one,which one would it be.

[@snappiness]

Just personal preference would be the K-1. I've owned it longer and really enjoy using it. The image quality from the KP is excellent. Overall you would get a smaller body with the KP, smaller lenses, faster camera with very comparable IQ.

[@snappiness]

As for colors, I haven't noticed a big difference. To me it feels like I'm editing the same files.

[@fosterb300]

Just curious if you'd be interested shooting with the SMC M 100mm F4 Macro on this beast in the future. My LCS has a used one that's under $50. I think it'd be a great piece of glass for your style. Were the kids portraits shot on the 43mm Limited?

[@snappiness]

I have not used that lens on the K-1 yet, but seems like a good one. Rated very well on PentaxForums. Under $50 seems like a good price. Usually $80 or more I feel like. I have a Pentax-F 100mm macro that I am shooting with right now, but maybe in the future I'll look at that one. Yes, the kids pics are the 43mm. Really fond of that lens on this camera. It's good on APSC too, just a strange focal length to get used to with the crop.

[@arthurgphotography]

Full frame Sony shooter here who just bought a Pentax. I'm a little embarrassed at how much better the IBIS is in my Pentax.

[@basvanloenhout3463]

I have a K5 and K70, but I still think of buying the K1 (MK2) in a while. What affordible prime lenses would you recommend for the K1?

[@snappiness]

If you are okay with manual focus, then the M series primes are really nice and affordable. 28mm 2.8, 50mm 1.7, 135mm 2.5/3.5. Also manual focus are the third party Rokinon/samyang lenses. I have had really good luck with mine being beautifully sharp. 14mm 2.8, 24mm 1.4, 35mm 1.4, 135mm f2. Some of those are a little pricey though. Adapting M42 manual lenses is another great idea for affordable beautiful glass. If you need AF the F or FA prime lenses are affordable but a little dated with their AF and coatings. Still sharp though.

[@basvanloenhout3463]

@@snappiness thanks for the advice 👍

[@snappiness]

@@basvanloenhout3463 sure. I'm sure others have more suggestions, but those are from my personal experience.

[@lukeekry]

I fell in love with Nikon D700 about 5 years ago, and after selling it 1 year ago, I started to regret my decision to sell it. Recently I have purchased second one, with only 5k clicks on the shutter. Love that camera, that viewfinder and that color tones it produces. I will never sell it.

[@snappiness]

Awesome! It's good to use a camera that you're in love with! Makes all the difference. I've tried buying cameras that on paper make more sense, but I end up not enjoying using. Not worth it :)

[@unbroken1010]

I'm trying to get my hands on one now

[@krisceuppens5273]

I'm still using my Nikon D810, which i got september of 2014... close to 9 years...

[@cbatiau2528]

I've been planning to get the K-1 II for some time, but am holding off to see if a K-1 III is in the works in the next year or two. I have three Pentax APS-C DSLRs and three Pentax FF film cameras, plus the Nikon F4 and D800. The FF cameras really are better, to me, than are the APS-C cameras. Pentax makes cameras that are easier and more intuitive to use than does Nikon. But my D800 makes better images than do any of my Pentax DSLRs; I think that the 36-Mpx sensor has a lot to do with that. Can't wait to get a new K-1 II/III.

[@snappiness]

I am interested to see where they go with their FF cameras as well! We have seen the APSC line gradually mature and change, but have yet to see what they do with FF digital, seeing as the k-1 ii was almost the same camera as the k-1. We'll see!