Pentax has released a brace of new digital SLR cameras today, one entry-level model "with semi professional characteristics" and another more genuinely semi-pro model.
The K200D features the Pentax Shake Reduction system to complement a 10.2 megapixel CCD sensor. The compact body also packs 11 point autofocus with ISO light sensitivity settings of 100 - 1600, a decent rage. There's a 2.7" wide-angle view monitor to help frame your photos, a range of picture modes, eight digital filters, an eight times more efficient battery than the previous incarnation and a dust removal system to protect your lenses and aperture. As well as the usual adjustable focus, contrast, white balance and saturation you can also set 22 individual custom functions. Footage is saved to SD or SD High Capacity cards. You'll be able to test your snapper capabilities on this from March 2008 for around £579.99 including a 18-55mm zoom lens (a common, flexible beginner's choice).
If you're already a fairly proficient photographer, you might want to step up a notch, however.
For confident hobbyists and semi-professionals, Pentax is offering the similarly named K20D, successor to the K10D, encased in a smart dust and splash-proof body. There's a 14.6 megapixel CMOS sensor at the heart of it, as well as automated pixel mapping technology to reduce the chances of annoying white spots on the final image.
A combination of a self-cleaning, vibrating dust protection system and special dust repellent coating mean your sensor should be safe from the elements, leaving you to get on with the photography. You get a choice of four JPEG compression levels and the camera can be set to store RAW files in Pentax's proprietary PEF or Adobe Photoshop DNG format, ready for you to compress to your satisfaction.
Naturally there's a Shake Reduction system, along with 11 point focus, ISO of 100 - 6400, a 2.7" monitor and support for SD and SDHC. Again available from March you can get the camera itself for £899.99, or include a 18-55mm lens taking the total up to £999.99.
There's also a new series of lenses to go with both cameras, compatible with any Pentax model featuring the "K-mount" bayonet fitting.
Like that? Read this: Pentax K110D makes a career as a paparazzi accessible to beginners | Samsung launch the GX20-digital SLR which has a whopping 14.6 megapixels!
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