Pentax K-500 Operating Manual

SLR Digital Camera

Operating Manual

K-500

To ensure the best performance from your camera, please read the Operating Manual before using the camera.

Thank you for purchasing this PENTAX K-500 Digital Camera. Please read this manual before using the camera in order to get the most out of all the features and functions. Keep this manual safe, as it can be a valuable tool in helping you to understand all the camera's capabilities.

Lenses you can use In general, lenses that can be used with this camera are DA, DA L, D FA and FA J lenses and lenses that have an s position on the aperture ring. To use any other lens or accessory, see p.56 and p.272.

Regarding copyrights

Images taken with the K-500 that are for anything other than personal enjoyment cannot be used without permission according to the rights as specified in the Copyright Act. Please take care, as there are cases where limitations are placed on taking pictures even for personal enjoyment during demonstrations, performances or of items on display. Images taken with the purpose of obtaining copyrights also cannot be used outside the scope of use of the copyright as laid out in the Copyright Act, and care should be taken here also.

Regarding trademarks

Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries. Windows Vista is either a registered trademark or trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Macintosh, Mac OS, and QuickTime are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Intel, Intel Core, and Pentium are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and other countries. SDXC Logo is a trademark of SD-3C, LLC. Eye-Fi, the Eye-Fi logo and Eye-Fi This product includes DNG technology under license by Adobe Systems Incorporated. The DNG logo is either a registered trademark or trademark of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United States and/or other countries.

All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

This product supports PRINT Image Matching III. PRINT Image Matching enabled digital still cameras, printers and software help photographers to produce images more faithful to their intentions. Some functions are not available on printers that are not PRINT Image Matching III compliant. Copyright 2001 Seiko Epson Corporation. All Rights Reserved. PRINT Image Matching is a trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation. The PRINT Image Matching logo is a trademark of Seiko Epson Corporation.

This product is licensed under the AVC Patent Portfolio License for the personal use of a consumer or other uses in which it does not receive remuneration to (i) encode video in compliance with the AVC standard (“AVC video”) and/or (ii) decode AVC video that was encoded by a consumer engaged in a personal activity and/or was obtained from a video provider licensed to provide AVC video. No license is granted or shall be implied for any other use. Additional information may be obtained from MPEG LA, L.L.C. See http://www.mpegla.com.

connected

are trademarks of Eye-Fi, Inc.

To users of this camera

• Do not use or store this camera in the vicinity of equipment that generates strong electromagnetic radiation or magnetic fields. Strong static charges or the magnetic fields produced by equipment such as radio transmitters could interfere with the monitor, damage the stored data, or affect the camera’s internal circuitry and cause camera misoperation.

• The liquid crystal panel used for the monitor is manufactured using extremely high precision technology. Although the level of functioning pixels is 99.99% or better, you should be aware that 0.01% or fewer of the pixels may not illuminate or may illuminate when they should not. However, this has no effect on the recorded image.

• There is a possibility that the illustrations and the display screen of the monitor in this manual are different from the actual ones.

• In this manual, SD Memory Cards, SDHC Memory Cards, SDXC Memory Cards and Eye-Fi Cards are referred to as “SD Memory Cards”.

• In this manual, the generic term “computer(s)” refers to either a Windows PC or a Macintosh.

• This camera can be powered with the rechargeable lithium-ion battery D-LI109, the AA battery holder D-BH109 with four AA batteries, or an optional AC adapter. The power supply provided with this camera varies depending on the country or region where the camera was purchased. This manual is mainly written assuming that the camera is used with the rechargeable lithium-ion battery D-LI109.

• In this manual, both D-LI109 and D-BH109 are referred to as the “battery” unless otherwise stated. Except this, the generic term “battery(ies)” refers to any type of batteries used for this camera and its accessories.

For Using Your Camera Safely

We have paid close attention to the safety of this camera. When using this camera, we request your special attention regarding items marked with the following symbols.

Warning

Caution

This symbol indicates that ignoring this item could cause serious personal injuries.

This symbol indicates that ignoring this item could cause minor or medium personal injuries, or loss of property.

About the Camera

Warning

• Do not disassemble or modify the camera. High voltage areas are present inside the camera, with the risk of electric shock.

• If the camera interior is exposed due to dropping or otherwise damaging the camera, never touch the exposed portion. There is a risk of electric shock.

• Do not aim the camera at the sun or other strong light sources when taking pictures or leave the camera sitting in direct sunlight with the lens cap off. Doing so may cause the camera to malfunction or cause a fire.

• Do not look at the sun or other strong light sources through the lens. Doing so may lead to a loss of eyesight or cause vision to be impaired.

• If any irregularities occur during use, such as smoke or a strange odor, stop use immediately, remove the battery or the AC adapter, and contact your nearest PENTAX Service Center. Continued use can cause a fire or electrical shock.

Caution

• Do not place your finger over the flash when discharging the flash. You may burn yourself.

• Do not cover the flash with clothing when discharging the flash. Discoloration may occur.

• Some portions of the camera heat up during use. There is a risk of low temperature burns when holding such portions for long periods.

• Should the monitor be damaged, be careful of glass fragments. Also, be careful not to allow the liquid crystal to get on your skin or in your eyes or mouth.

• Depending on your individual factors or physical condition, the use of the camera may cause itching, rashes or blisters. In case of any abnormality, stop using the camera and get medical attention immediately.

About the Battery Charger and AC Adapter

Warning

• Always use the battery charger and AC adapter exclusively developed for this camera, with the specified power and voltage. Using a battery charger or AC adapter not exclusive to this camera, or using the exclusive battery charger or AC adapter with an unspecified power or voltage can cause a fire, electric shock, or camera breakdown. The specified voltage is 100 - 240V AC.

• Do not disassemble or modify the product. This can cause a fire or electrical shock.

• If the generation of smoke or strange odor from the product or other abnormality occurs, immediately discontinue using and consult a PENTAX Service Center. Continued use can cause a fire or electrical shock.

• If water should happen to get inside the product, consult a PENTAX Service Center. Continued use can cause a fire or electrical shock.

• If you see a lightning flash or hear thunder during use of the battery charger or AC adapter, unplug the power plug and discontinue use. Continued use can cause damage to the product, fire or electrical shock.

• Wipe off the power plug if it should become covered with dust. Accumulated dust may cause a fire.

• To reduce the risk of hazards, use only CSA/UL certified power supply cord set, cord is Type SPT-2 or heavier, minimum NO.18 AWG copper, one end with a molded-on male attachment plug cap (with a specified NEMA configuration), and the other is provided with a molded-on female connector body (with a specified IEC nonindustrial type configuration) or the equivalent.

Caution

• Do not place or drop heavy objects on or forcefully bend the AC plug cord. Doing so may damage the cord. Should the AC plug cord be damaged, consult a PENTAX Service Center.

• Do not touch or short-circuit the terminal area of the AC plug cord while the cord is plugged in.

• Do not handle the power plug with wet hands. This can cause an electric shock.

• Do not drop the product, or subject it to violent impact. This can cause the product breakdown.

• Do not use the battery charger D-BC109 to charge batteries other than the rechargeable lithium-ion battery D-LI109. Attempting to charge other types of batteries may cause an explosion or heating, or may damage the battery charger.

About the Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery

Warning

• If any leakage from the battery should come in contact with your eyes, do not rub them. Flush your eyes with clean water and get medical attention immediately.

Caution

• Only use the specified battery with this camera. Use of other batteries may cause an explosion or fire.

• Do not disassemble the battery. Disassembling the battery may cause an explosion or leakage.

• Remove the battery from the camera immediately if it becomes hot or begins to smoke. Be careful not to burn yourself during removal.

• Keep wires, hairpins, and other metal objects away from the + and - contacts of the battery.

• Do not short the battery or dispose of the battery in fire. This can cause an explosion or fire.

• If any leakage from the battery should come in contact with skin or clothing, it may cause irritation to the skin. Wash the affected areas thoroughly with water.

• Precautions for D-LI109 Battery Usage: USE SPECIFIED CHARGER ONLY.

- DO NOT INCINERATE.

- DO NOT DISASSEMBLE.

- DO NOT SHORT CIRCUIT.

- DO NOT EXPOSE TO HIGH TEMP. (140°F/60°C)

About the Usage of AA Batteries

Warning

• If any leakage from the battery should come in contact with your eyes, do not rub them. Flush your eyes with clean water and get medical attention immediately.

Caution

• When using the AA battery holder D-BH109, four AA alkaline, AA lit hiu m or AA Ni -MH batteries can be used. Do not use batteries other than those specified here. Using other types of batteries may cause the camera to function poorly, or the batteries may explode or cause a fire.

• The batteries should be inserted correctly, observing (+) and (-) marks on the batteries. Inserting the batteries incorrectly may cause an explosion or fire.

• When replacing the batteries, do not combine different brands, types or capacities. Also, do not combine old batteries with new ones. Inserting the batteries incorrectly may cause an explosion or fire.

• Do not short the batteries or dispose of the batteries in fire. Do not disassemble the batteries. The batteries could explode or catch fire.

• Do not charge any batteries other than rechargeable Ni-MH batteries. The batteries could explode or catch fire. AA batteries for use with this camera other than Ni-MH batteries cannot be charged.

• Do not open the battery cover or remove the batteries while the power is on.

• Remove the batteries when you do not plan to use the camera for a long time. The batteries may leak.

• If any leakage from the battery should come in contact with skin or clothes, it may cause irritation to the skin. Wash the affected areas thoroughly with water.

• Remove the batteries from the camera immediately if they become hot or begin to smoke. Be careful not to burn yourself during removal.

Keep the Camera and its Accessories out of the Reach of Small Children

Warning

• Do not place the camera and its accessories within the reach of small children.

1. If the product falls or is operated accidentally, it may cause serious personal

injuries.

2. Wrapping the strap around a neck may cause suffocation.

3. To avoid the risk of a small accessory such as the battery or SD Memory Cards

from being swallowed by mistake, keep them out of the reach of small children. Seek medical attention immediately if an accessory is accidentally swallowed.

Care to be Taken During Handling

Before Using Your Camera

• When traveling, take the Worldwide Service Network listing that is included in the package. This will be useful if you experience problems abroad.

• When the camera has not been used for a long time, confirm that it is still working properly, particularly prior to taking important pictures (such as at a wedding or when traveling). Contents of the recording cannot be guaranteed if recording, playback or transferring your data to a computer, etc. is not possible due to a malfunction of your camera or recording media (SD Memory Card), etc.

About the Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery and Battery Charger

• To keep the battery in optimum condition, avoid storing it in a fully charged state or in high temperatures.

• If the battery is left inserted and the camera is not used for a long time, the battery will over-discharge and shorten the battery’s life.

• Charging the battery a day before use or on the day of use is recommended.

• The AC plug cord provided with this camera or included with the battery charger kit K-BC109 is developed exclusively for the battery charger D-BC109. Do not use it with other devices.

Precautions on Carrying and Using Your Camera

• Do not subject the camera to high temperatures or high humidity. Do not leave the camera in a vehicle, as the temperature can get very high.

• Do not subject the camera to strong vibrations, shocks, or pressure. Use a cushion to protect the camera from vibrations of motorcycles, automobiles, or ships.

• The temperature range for camera use is -10°C to 40°C (14°F to 104°F).

• The monitor may appear black at high temperatures, but will return to normal at normal temperatures.

• The monitor may respond more slowly at low temperatures. This is due to liquid crystal properties, and is not a malfunction.

• Sudden temperature changes will cause condensation on the inside and outside of the camera. Place the camera in your bag or a plastic bag, and remove it after temperature of the camera and surroundings are equalized.

• Avoid contact with garbage, mud, sand, dust, water, toxic gases, or salt. These could cause the camera to breakdown. Wipe the camera to dry off any rain or water drops.

• Do not press the monitor with excessive force. This could cause it to break or malfunction.

• Be careful not to overtighten the screw in the tripod socket when using a tripod.

Cleaning Your Camera

• Do not clean the camera with organic solvents such as thinner, alcohol, or benzine.

• Use a lens brush to remove dust accumulated on the lens or viewfinder. Never use a spray blower for cleaning as it may damage the lens.

• Please contact a PENTAX Service Center for professional cleaning of the CMOS sensor. (This will involve a fee.)

• Periodic inspections are recommended every one to two years to maintain high performance.

Storing Your Camera

• Do not store the camera with preservatives or chemicals. Storage in high temperatures and high humidity can cause mold to grow on the camera. Remove the camera from its case and store it in a dry and well-ventilated place.

• Avoid using or storing the camera where it may be exposed to static electricity or electrical interference.

• Avoid using or storing the camera in direct sunlight or in locations where it may be exposed to rapid changes in temperature or to condensation.

About SD Memory Cards

• The SD Memory Card is equipped with a write-protect switch. Setting the switch to LOCK prevents new data from being recorded on the card, the stored data from being deleted, and the card from being formatted by the camera or computer.

• The SD Memory Card may be hot when removing the card immediately after using the camera.

• Do not remove the SD Memory Card or turn off the power while the card is being accessed. This may cause the data to be lost or the card to be damaged.

• Do not bend the SD Memory Card or subject it to violent impact. Keep it away from water and store away from high temperatures.

• Do not remove the SD Memory Card while formatting. The card may be damaged and become unusable.

• Data on the SD Memory Card may be deleted in the following circumstances. We do not accept any liability for data that is deleted if

1. the SD Memory Card is mishandled by the user.

2. the SD Memory Card is exposed to static electricity or electrical interference.

3. the SD Memory Card has not been used for a long time.

4. the SD Memory Card or the battery is removed while the card is being accessed.

• If the SD Memory Card is not used for a long time, the data on the card may become unreadable. Be sure to regularly make a backup of important data on a computer.

• Format new SD Memory Cards. Also format SD Memory Cards previously used with other cameras or devices.

Write-protect

switch

• Please note that deleting data stored on an SD Memory Card, or formatting an SD Memory Card does not completely erase the original data. Deleted data can sometimes be recovered using commercially available software. If you are going to discard, give away or sell your SD Memory Card, you should ensure that the data on the card is completely deleted or the card itself is destroyed if it contains any personal or sensitive information.

• The data on your SD Memory Card should be managed at your own risk.

About Eye-Fi Cards

• An SD Memory Card with a built-in wireless LAN ("Eye-Fi card") can be used with this camera.

• Use of an access point and an Internet connection are required for transferring images via wireless LAN. For details, refer to the Eye-Fi website. (http://www.eye.fi).

• Use Eye-Fi cards which have been updated to the newest firmware.

• Set [Eye-Fi] to [Off], or do not use an Eye-Fi card in a location where the use of wireless LAN devices is restricted or prohibited, such as airplanes.

• Eye-Fi cards can be used only in the country in which the card was purchased. Please observe all local laws governing Eye-Fi card usage.

• This camera features a function to enable/disable the communication function of the Eye-Fi card, however, we do not guarantee the operability of all Eye-Fi card functions.

• Refer to the Eye-Fi card manual for details on how to use the card.

• Please contact the Eye-Fi card manufacturer regarding any malfunctions or problems concerning Eye-Fi cards.

Regarding User Registration

In order to better serve you, we request that you complete the user registration, which can be found on the CD-ROM supplied with the camera or on the PENTAX website. Refer to p.247 for details. Thank you for your cooperation.

Memo

Contents

For Using Your Camera Safely ............................................................ 1

Care to be Taken During Handling ...................................................... 5

Contents............................................................................................... 9

Composition of the Operating Manual ............................................... 15

Before Using Your Camera 17

Checking the Contents of the Package ......................................... 18

Names and Functions of the Working Parts .................................. 19

Capture Mode .................................................................................... 20

Playback Mode .................................................................................. 23

Monitor Display .................................................................................. 25

Viewfinder .......................................................................................... 37

How to Change Function Settings ................................................. 39

Using the Direct Keys ........................................................................ 39

Using the Control Panel ..................................................................... 40

Using the Menus ................................................................................ 41

Getting Started 45

Attaching the Strap ........................................................................ 46

Inserting the Battery ...................................................................... 47

Using the Lithium-ion Battery............................................................. 47

Using the AA Batteries....................................................................... 50

Using the AC Adapter ........................................................................ 52

Inserting/Removing an SD Memory Card ...................................... 54

Attaching a Lens............................................................................ 56

Adjusting the Viewfinder Diopter.................................................... 58

Turning the Camera On and Off .................................................... 59

Initial Settings ............................................... ................................. 60

Setting the Display Language ............................................................ 60

Setting the Date and Time ................................................................. 62

Basic Operations 65

Basic Shooting Operation .............................................................. 66

Letting the Camera Choose the Optimal Settings.............................. 66

Using the Built-in Flash.................................................................. 70

Setting the Flash Mode...................................................................... 70

Using the Built-in Flash ...................................................................... 73

Reviewing Images ......................................................................... 74

Playing Back Images ......................................................................... 74

Deleting a Single Image..................................................................... 75

Shooting Functions 77

How to Operate the Shooting Functions........................................ 78

Direct Keys Setting Items................................................................... 78

Rec. Mode Menu Items...................................................................... 79

Movie Menu Items.............................................................................. 82

Custom Setting Menu Items............................................................... 83

Selecting the Appropriate Capture Mode....................................... 86

Auto Picture Modes............................................................................ 87

Scene Modes ..................................................................................... 88

Exposure Modes ................................................................................ 90

Setting the Exposure .....................................................................91

Setting the Sensitivity......................................................................... 91

Changing the Exposure Mode ........................................................... 93

Adjusting the Exposure ...................................................................... 96

Locking the Exposure Before Shooting (AE Lock) ........................... 100

Selecting the Metering Method ........................................................ 101

Reducing the Image Noise (Noise Reduction) ................................. 102

Focusing ...................................................................................... 105

Setting the Focus Mode ................................................................... 105

Selecting the Focusing Point (AF Point) .......................................... 108

Setting the Contrast AF during Live View ........................................ 110

Checking the Focus ......................................................................... 113

Adjusting the Focus Manually (Manual Focus) ................................ 114

AF Fine Adjustment ......................................................................... 116

Checking the Depth of Field (Preview) ........................................ 118

Displaying the Optical Preview ........................................................ 118

Displaying the Digital Preview.......................................................... 119

Using the Shake Reduction Function to Prevent

Camera Shake............................................................................. 120

Taking Pictures Using the Shake Reduction Function ..................... 120

Shooting with the Self-timer ............................................................. 122

Shooting with a Remote Control Unit (Optional).............................. 124

Taking Pictures Continuously ...................................................... 126

Continuous Shooting........................................................................ 126

Interval Shooting .............................................................................. 128

Multi-exposure ................................................................................. 131

Recording Movies........................................................................ 133

Changing the Settings for Movie Recording .................................... 133

Recording Movies ............................................................................ 136

Interval Movie................................................................................... 138

Playing Back Movies........................................................................ 140

Editing Movies.................................................................................. 142

Shooting Settings 145

Setting a File Format ................................................................... 146

File Format....................................................................................... 147

JPEG Recorded Pixels .................................................................... 148

JPEG Quality ................................................................................... 148

Color Space ..................................................................................... 148

Setting the White Balance ........................................................... 149

Adjusting the White Balance Manually............................................. 152

Adjusting the White Balance with Color Temperature ..................... 154

Correcting Images ....................................................................... 155

Brightness Adjustment ..................................................................... 155

High Dynamic Range Image Capture .............................................. 156

Lens Correction................................................................................ 158

Composition Adjustment .................................................................. 160

Setting the Image Finishing Tone ................................................ 161

Custom Image.................................................................................. 161

Digital Filter ...................................................................................... 165

Customizing the Button/E-dial Functions..................................... 168

Setting the E-dials Operation ........................................................... 168

Setting the V/Y Button Operation ............................................. 171

Setting the =/L Button Operation .......................................... 174

Saving Frequently Used Settings ................................................ 175

Saving the Settings .......................................................................... 175

Checking the Saved USER Settings ................................................ 178

Using Saved USER Settings............................................................ 178

Resetting to Default Settings ........................................................... 179

Playback Functions and Image Editing 181

How to Operate the Playback/ Edit Functions ............................. 182

Playback Mode Palette Items .......................................................... 182

Playback Menu Items....................................................................... 184

Setting the Playback Display Method .......................................... 185

Selecting the Playback Functions................................................ 186

Magnifying Images........................................................................... 186

Displaying Multiple Images .............................................................. 187

Playing Back Images Continuously.................................................. 190

Rotating Images............................................................................... 192

Deleting Multiple Images ............................................................. 193

Deleting Selected Images ................................................................ 193

Deleting a Folder.............................................................................. 194

Deleting All Images .......................................................................... 195

Processing Images ...................................................................... 196

Changing the Number of Recorded Pixels (Resize) ........................ 196

Cutting Out Part of the Image (Cropping) ........................................ 197

Processing Images with Digital Filters ............................................. 198

Joining Multiple Images (Index) ....................................................... 203

Developing RAW Images............................................................. 205

Developing One RAW Image........................................................... 205

Developing Multiple RAW Images ................................................... 207

Connecting the Camera to an AV Device .................................... 209

Connecting the Camera to a Video Input Terminal .......................... 209

Setting the Video Output Format ..................................................... 210

Changing Additional Settings 211

How to Operate the Set-up Menu................................................ 212

Set-up Menu Items........................................................................... 212

Camera Settings .......................................................................... 214

Setting the Sound Effects, Date and Time, and Display Language ...... 214

Setting the Monitor and the Menu Displays ..................................... 218

Battery Settings................................................................................ 222

Selecting Settings to Save in the Camera (Memory) ....................... 224

Resetting the Camera Settings ........................................................ 226

Checking the Camera Version Information ...................................... 227

File Management Settings...........................................................228

Formatting an SD Memory Card ...................................................... 228

Protecting Images from Deletion (Protect)....................................... 229

Setting the Naming System of the Folder ........................................ 230

Creating New Folders ...................................................................... 232

Setting the File Name ...................................................................... 233

Setting the Photographer Information .............................................. 234

Using an Eye-Fi Card....................................................................... 236

Setting the DPOF Settings............................................................... 239

Connecting to a Computer 241

Manipulating Captured Images on a Computer........................... 242

Saving Images on a Computer .................................................... 243

Setting the USB Connection Mode .................................................. 243

Connecting the Camera and a Computer ........................................ 244

Using the Provided Software ....................................................... 245

Installing the Software...................................................................... 245

Using the Flash 249

Using the Built-in Flash................................................................ 250

Flash Characteristics in Each Exposure Mode ................................ 250

Using the Slow-speed Sync Flash ................................................... 250

Distance and Aperture when Using the Built-in Flash ...................... 252

Using an External Flash (Optional).............................................. 254

Using the P-TTL Auto Flash............................................................. 255

Using the High-speed Sync Flash.................................................... 256

Using Flash in Wireless Mode ......................................................... 257

Connecting an External Flash with an Extension Cord .................... 260

Using the Contrast Control Sync Flash............................................ 261

Appendix 263

Default Settings ............................................... ............................ 264

Functions Available with Various Lens Combinations ................. 272

Setting the Focal Length .................................................................. 275

Using the Aperture Ring................................................................... 276

Cleaning the CMOS Sensor ........................................................ 277

Removing Dust by Shaking the CMOS Sensor (Dust Removal) ..... 277

Removing Dust with a Blower .......................................................... 278

Using the GPS Unit ..................................................................... 280

Shooting Celestial Bodies (ASTROTRACER) ................................. 281

Error Messages ........................................................................... 282

Troubleshooting........................................................................... 285

Main Specifications...................................................................... 288

Index............................................................................................ 297

WARRANTY POLICY .................................................................. 305

Composition of the Operating Manual

This Operating Manual contains the following chapters.

1 Before Using Your Camera

Explains the provided accessories and the names and functions of the working parts.

2 Getting Started

Explains your first steps from purchasing the camera to taking pictures. Be sure to read this chapter and follow the instructions.

3 Basic Operations

Explains basic operations for taking and playing back pictures.

4 Shooting Functions

Explains shooting-related functions.

5 Shooting Settings

Explains procedures for changing the shooting settings, such as the file format.

6 Playback Functions and Image Editing

Explains various operations for playing back and editing images.

7 Changing Additional Settings

Explains general camera settings and file management settings such as the monitor display settings and the image folder naming system.

8 Connecting to a Computer

Explains how to connect the camera to a computer, and includes installation instructions and a general overview of the provided software.

9 Using the Flash

Explains how to use the built-in flash and external flashes.

10Appendix

Explains troubleshooting and provides various resources.

The symbols used in this Operating Manual are explained below.

In this manual, the arrow keys of the four-way controller are referred to in the following way.

Indicates reference page numbers explaining a related operation.

Indicates useful information.

Indicates precautions to take when operating the camera.

1 Before Using Your Camera

Check the package contents and the names and functions of the working parts before use.

Checking the Contents of the Package ..................18

Names and Functions of the Working Parts ...........19

How to Change Function Settings ..........................39

Checking the Contents of the Package

The following accessories are packaged with the camera. Check that all accessories are included.

Before Using Your Camera

Hot shoe cover FK

(installed on camera)

Strap

O-ST132

AC plug cord USB cable

Operating Manual

(this manual)

Eyecup F

(installed on camera)

Rechargeable lithium-ion

battery D-LI109

I-USB7

Body mount cover

(installed on camera)

Battery charger

D-BC109

Software (CD-ROM)

S-SW133

* The power supply set provided with this camera varies depending on the country or region

where the camera was purchased. The camera may come with the AA battery holder D-BH109 and four AA lithium batteries, instead of the rechargeable lithium-ion battery D-LI109 and battery charger D-BC109.

Names and Functions of the Working Parts

Microphone

AF assist light

Lens mount index

(red dot)

Self-timer lamp/

Remote control

receiver

Hot shoe

Diopter adjustment

lever

Viewfinder

Monitor

Card access lamp

Image plane indicator

Strap lug

Mirror

AF coupler

Lens information contacts

Built-in flash

Speaker

Strap lug

SD Memory Card slot

Card cover

Terminal cover

Cable release terminal

Before Using Your Camera

Connection cable

VIDEO/PC output

terminal

Terminal cover

Tripod socket

cover Battery cover unlock switch

Battery cover

* In the second illustration, the camera is shown with the Hot shoe cover FK

and the Eyecup F

If the terminal covers and the connection cable cover are not closed correctly, the dust-proof and water-resistant qualities of the camera will not be effective.

R removed.

Capture Mode

Here, you can learn which parts are used and how they function when in capture mode.

Before Using Your Camera

The factory default setting of each part is explained here, but some parts have multiple functions and work differently depending on the selected setting.

1 2

3 4

8 9

c d

e f

1 m (EV Compensation)

button

Press to set the EV compensation value. (p.96)

Turn the rear e-dial (S) after or while pressing the m button to change the setting.

2 d (Green) button

Press to reset the values being adjusted.

3 Shutter release button

Press to capture images. (p.68)

4 Main switch

Move to turn the camera on and off. (p.59)

5 Front e-dial (R)

Changes the set value. You can change the menu

when a menu screen is displayed. (p.42)

6 Lens unlock button

Press to detach a lens. (p.57)

7 Mode dial

Changes the capture mode. (p.86)

8 E (Flash pop-up) button

Press to pop up the built-in flash. (p.73)

9 V/Y button

You can assign a function to this button. (p.171)

0 Focus mode switch

Changes the focus mode. (p.105)

a U/i (Live View) button

Displays the Live View image. (p.27)

Deletes the image during Instant Review. (p.68)

b M button

Displays the control panel. (p.29) Press again to change the type of information displayed in standby mode. (p.30)

c Rear e-dial (S)

Sets the shutter speed, aperture and EV compensation values. (p.94)

You can change the settings when the control panel is displayed. (p.41)

You can change the menu when a menu screen is displayed. (p.42)

d =/L button

You can select the function of this button either to focus on the target or to lock the exposure value. (p.100, p.174)

e Q (Playback) button

Switches to playback mode. (p.74)

Before Using Your Camera

f 4 button

When the control panel or a menu screen is displayed, press this button to confirm the selected item.

Before Using Your Camera

When both [AF Active Area] and [Contrast AF] are set to [Select], press this button to enable or disable changing the autofocusing (AF) point or area. (p.109, p.112)

When the camera is in \ mode or when the focus is locked during Live View, press this button to magnify the image on the monitor. (p.113)

g Four-way controller

(2345)

Displays the Sensitivity/White Balance/Flash Mode/Drive Mode setup menu. (p.78)

When the control panel or a menu screen is displayed, use this to move the cursor or change the item to set.

h 3 button

Displays the [A Rec. Mode 1] menu (p.79). Press this button when a menu screen is displayed to return to the previous screen. (p.41)

Playback Mode

Here, you can learn which parts are used and how they function when in playback mode.

1 2

3 4

8 9

Before Using Your Camera

1 m (EV Compensation)

button

When the file format of the last captured image is JPEG, and its data still remains in the buffer memory, press this button to save the image in RAW format. (p.74)

2 Shutter release button

Press halfway to switch to capture mode.

0 a

3 Main switch

Move to turn the camera on and off. (p.59)

4 Front e-dial (R)

Use this to display the next or previous image. (p.74)

5 U/i (Delete) button

Press to delete images. (p.75)

6 M button

Changes the type of information displayed in playback mode. (p.31)

7 Rear e-dial (S)

Before Using Your Camera

Use this to magnify an image or display multiple images at the same time (p.186, p.187).

8 Q (Playback) button

Switches to capture mode.

9 4 button

Confirms the setting you selected in the menu or playback screen.

0 Four-way controller

(2345)

Use this to move the cursor or change the item to set in the menu or playback screen. Press the four-way controller (3) in the single image display to display the playback mode palette. (p.182)

a 3 button

Displays the [Q Playback 1] menu (p.184).

Monitor Display

128

Cancel

Status Screen

Custom Image Bright

Various information appears on the monitor depending on the status of the camera.

The brightness level and the color of the monitor can be adjusted. (p.219)

Capture Mode

With this camera, you can take pictures while looking through the viewfinder or while viewing the image on the monitor. When using the viewfinder, check the status screen displayed on the monitor and the viewfinder indicators while shooting. When not using the viewfinder, display the Live View image on the monitor while shooting. The camera is in “standby mode” when the status screen or the Live View image is displayed. Press the M button in standby mode to display the “control panel” and change settings. (p.29) If you press the M button while the control panel is displayed, you can select the type of information displayed in standby mode. (p.30)

Before Using Your Camera

90 4.0

200

Standby mode (status screen)

128

Custom Image Bright

128

Control panel Shooting Info Display

Status Screen

Cancel

selection screen

+1.0

G1A1

123/999

Status screen

The settings for shooting with the viewfinder are displayed. (All items are displayed here for explanatory purposes. The actual display may differ.)

Before Using Your Camera

2000 1600

+1.0

1 Capture mode (p.86) 2 AE Lock (p.100) 3 GPS positioning status 4 Custom Image (p.161) 5 HDR Capture (p.156)/

Digital Filter (p.165) 6 Focus mode (p.105) 7 AE Metering (p.101) 8 Shake Reduction (p.120) 9 Battery level (p.51) 10 Front/rear e-dial guide 11 Shutter speed 12 Aperture value 13 Sensitivity (p.91) 14 EV Compensation (p.96)/

Exposure Bracketing (p.97) 15 EV bar scale

G1A1

5.6F

123/999

123

10 14

21 22 24

2625

456789

16 18 20

2827

16 Sensitivity (p.91) 17 Flash Mode (p.70) 18 AF point (p.108) 19 Drive Mode (p.78) 20 White Balance (p.149) 21 Flash Exposure

Compensation (p.72) 22 White Balance fine-tuning (p.150) 23 Eye-Fi communication

status (p.236) 24 Number of shots during Interval

Shooting or Multi-exposure 25 File Format (p.147) 26 JPEG Recorded Pixels (p.148) 27 JPEG Quality (p.148) 28 Number of recordable still pictures/

| button guide

* Indicator 3 appears only when the optional GPS unit is attached to the camera

and is operating. (p.280)

* Indicator 23 appears only when the Eye-Fi card is in use. M indicates that

Eye-Fi communication is in standby mode, L indicates that Eye-Fi is not connected, and the icon is animated during Eye-Fi communication.

The status screen will disappear if no operations are made within 30 seconds, and will also disappear after 2 seconds, immediately after shooting. Press the M button to display it again.

Live View

001/999

2000

F2.8

1600

[

9999

]

+1.7

2000

F2.8

1600

[

9999

]

±0

Live View is displayed when the U/i button is pressed. You can capture images while checking the composition on the monitor. (All items are displayed here for explanatory purposes. The actual display may differ.)

123 456789

12 13

F2.8

+1.7

1600

2000

19 20 21 23 2522

1 Capture mode (p.86) 2 Flash Mode (p.70)/Recording

Sound Level (p.134) 3 Drive Mode (p.78) 4 White Balance (p.149) 5 Custom Image (p.161) 6 HDR Capture (p.156)/

Digital Filter (p.165) 7 Focus mode (p.105) 8 AE Metering (p.101) 9 Shake Reduction (p.120)/

Movie SR (p.134) 10 Battery level (p.51) 11 GPS positioning status 12 Eye-Fi communication

status (p.236)

001/999

±0

[

9999

16 17

]

2000

F2.8

1600

13 Temperature warning 14 Histogram (p.35) 15 Number of shots during Interval

Shooting or Multi-exposure

16 Interval Shooting (p.128)/

Multi-exposure (p.131)

17 AF frame 18 | button guide 19 AE Lock (p.100) 20 Shutter speed 21 Aperture value 22 EV bar scale 23 Sensitivity (p.91) 24 Number of recordable still

pictures/movie recordable time

25 Face detection frame

[

9999

Before Using Your Camera

]

* Indicator 11 appears only when the optional GPS unit is attached to the camera

and is operating. (p.280)

* Indicator 12 appears only when the Eye-Fi card is in use. M indicates that

Eye-Fi communication is in standby mode, L indicates that Eye-Fi is not connected, and the icon is animated during Eye-Fi communication.

* Indicator 17 is displayed in white. It turns green when the subject is in focus

and turns red when the subject is not in fo cus. I t is not displayed when the focus mode switch is set to \. (p.69)

* For indicator 25, multiple face detection frames are displayed when [Contrast

AF] is set to [Face Detection]. A main face detection frame is displayed in yellow and other frames in white. (p.110)

• The Live View image may differ from the actual image captured if the brightness of the subject is low or high.

• If any changes occur in the shooting light source during Live View, the image on the monitor may flicker. You can cut down on flicker by setting the power frequency in [Flicker Reduction] of the [R Set-up 2] menu to that used in your

Before Using Your Camera

region.

• If the camera position is changed rapidly during Live View, the image may not be displayed with the appropriate brightness. Wait for the display to become stable before shooting.

• Noise may appear on the Live View image when used in dark locations.

• The higher the sensitivity, the more noise and color unevenness may occur in the monitor image and/or captured image.

• If you continue shooting for a prolonged period, the internal temperature of the camera may increase, resulting in lower quality images. It is recommended that you turn off the camera when not shooting. To prevent the image quality from degrading, allow enough time for the camera to cool down while shooting with long exposures or recording movies.

• If the internal temperature of the camera becomes high, l (temperature warning) is displayed and Live View may not be available. If this happens, stop shooting or use the viewfinder.

You can change the Live View display settings in [Live View] of the [A Rec. Mode 4] menu. (p.111)

+ 283 hidden pages

Pentax K-500 Operating Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual