Pentax K Series K-x User Manual

SLR Digital Camera

Operating Manual

For optimum camera performance, please read the Operating Manual before using the camera.

Thank you for purchasing this PENTAX a 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 Aperture s (Auto) position. To use any other lens or accessory, see p.48 and p.282.

Regarding copyrights

Images taken using the a 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

PENTAX, a and smc PENTAX are trademarks of HOYA CORPORATION. PENTAX Digital Camera Utility and SDM are trademarks of HOYA CORPORATION.

SDHC logo is a trademark. 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 and Mac OS are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

SDHC logo is a trademark. This product includes DNG technology under license by Adobe Systems Incorporated.

The DNG logo is either registered trademarks or trademarks of Adobe Systems Incorporated in the United States and/or other countries. All other brands or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.

This product supports PRINT Image Matching III. PRINT Image Matching enabled digital still cameras, printers and software help photographers to produce image 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.

To users of this camera

• Do not use or store this device 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 product's internal circuitry and cause camera misoperation.

• The liquid crystal panel used in 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 product.

For Using Your Camera Safely

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

Warning

Caution

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

• Wrapping the strap around your neck is dangerous. Take care that small children do not hang the strap around their necks.

• Do not look directly at the sun through the camera with a telephoto lens attached, as viewing the sun may damage your eyes. Viewing the sun directly with a telephoto lens may lead to a loss of eyesight.

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

• 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 Battery Usage

Warning

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

Caution

• This camera uses four AA alkaline, AA lithium or AA Ni-MH batteries. 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.

• AA alkaline and AA lithium batteries cannot be recharged. Do not disassemble the batteries. Attempting to charge non-rechargeable batteries or disassembling the batteries could result in explosion or leakage.

• The batteries should be inserted correctly, observing (+) and (-) marks on the batteries and the camera. 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. Doing so may cause the batteries to explode or cause a 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. Batteries for use with this camera other than Ni-MH batteries cannot be charged.

• If any leakage from the batteries 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.

About the SD Memory Card

Warning

• To avoid the risk of SD Memory Cards from being swallowed by mistake, keep them out of the reach of small children. Seek medical attention immediately if an SD Memory Card is accidentally swallowed.

About the AC Adapter

Warning

• Always use the AC adapter exclusively developed for this product, with the specified power and voltage. Using an AC adapter not exclusive to this product, or using the exclusive AC adapter with an unspecified power or voltage can cause a fire, electric shock, or camera breakdown.

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 plug or unplug the power cord with wet hands. This can cause an electric shock.

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

• To reduce the risk of hazards, use only a CSA/UL certified power supply cord set, cord is Type SPT-2 or heavier, minimum NO.18 AWG copper, one end with a moldedon 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.

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 during 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.

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 0°C to 40°C (32°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 the camera after temperature of the camera and surroundings are equalized.

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

• Please do not press forcefully on the monitor. 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 product with organic solvents such as thinner, alcohol, or benzene. This may cause color fading or discoloration.

• 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.)

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.

Other Precautions

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

• Refer to “Precautions When Using the SD Memory Card” (p.45) regarding the SD Memory Card.

• Please note that deleting the data recorded on an SD Memory Card or formatting an SD Memory Card using a camera or computer will not necessarily delete the data so that they cannot be recovered using off-the-shelf data recovery software. Such data should be handled and managed at your own risk.

Regarding Product Registration

In order to better serve you, we request that you complete the product registration, which can be found on the CD-ROM supplied with the camera or on the PENTAX website. Refer to p.273 for details. Thank you for your cooperation.

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

Care to be Taken During Handling ...................................................... 3

Contents............................................................................................... 5

Composition of the Operating Manual ............................................... 11

Before Using Your Camera 13

a Camera Characteristics .....................................................14

Checking the Contents of the Package ......................................16

Names and Functions of Working Parts ....................................17

Capture Mode .................................................................................... 18

Playback Mode .................................................................................. 20

Display Indicators.........................................................................22

Monitor ............................................................................................... 22

Viewfinder .......................................................................................... 30

How to Change Function Settings ..............................................32

Using the Direct Keys ........................................................................ 32

Using the Control Panel ..................................................................... 33

Using the Menus ................................................................................ 35

Getting Started 37

Attaching the Strap ......................................................................38

Inserting the Batteries..................................................................39

Battery Level Indicator ....................................................................... 40

Approximate Image Storage Capacity and Playback Time (New

Batteries) ............................................................................................ 41

Using the AC Adapter (Optional) ....................................................... 42

Inserting/Removing the SD Memory Card..................................44

Recorded Pixels and Quality Level .................................................... 46

Attaching the Lens .......................................................................48

Adjusting the Viewfinder Diopter................................................50

Turning the Camera On and Off ..................................................51

Initial Settings ...............................................................................52

Setting the Display Language ............................................................ 52

Setting the Date and Time ................................................................. 56

Basic Operations 59

Basic Shooting Operation ...........................................................60

Holding the Camera ........................................................................... 60

Letting the Camera Choose the Optimal Settings.............................. 61

Using a Zoom Lens ......................................................................66

Using the Built-in Flash ...............................................................67

Setting the Flash Mode ...................................................................... 67

Compensating Flash Output .............................................................. 72

Allowing Shooting while Charging the Flash...................................... 73

Playing Back Pictures..................................................................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 Setting Items.......................................................... 79

Custom Setting Menu Setting Items .................................................. 81

Selecting the Appropriate Capture Mode...................................83

Picture Mode ...................................................................................... 84

H Mode........................................................................................... 85

Exposure Mode.................................................................................. 87

Setting the Exposure....................................................................88

Effect of Aperture and Shutter Speed................................................ 88

Setting the Sensitivity......................................................................... 90

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

Selecting the Metering Method ........................................................ 104

Adjusting the Exposure .................................................................... 107

Focusing......................................................................................112

Using the Autofocus......................................................................... 112

Setting the AF Mode ........................................................................ 115

Selecting the Focusing Area (AF Point)........................................... 117

Locking the Focus (Focus Lock) ...................................................... 119

Adjusting the Focus Manually (Manual Focus) ................................ 121

Checking the Composition, Exposure and Focus Before

Shooting (Preview) .....................................................................124

Assigning the Preview Function to the Green Button ...................... 124

Displaying the Optical Preview ........................................................ 126

Displaying the Digital Preview.......................................................... 127

Using Shake Reduction Function to Prevent Camera

Shake ...........................................................................................128

Taking Pictures Using the Shake Reduction Function..................... 128

Shooting with the Self-timer ............................................................. 131

Shooting with the Remote Control (Optional) .................................. 134

Taking Pictures Continuously...................................................136

Continuous Shooting........................................................................ 136

Multi-exposure ................................................................................. 138

Taking Pictures Using Digital Filters ........................................140

Shooting with the Live View ......................................................143

Taking Still Pictures ......................................................................... 144

Recording Movies ............................................................................ 148

Using the Flash 155

Flash Characteristics in Each Exposure Mode........................156

Using the Slow-speed Sync ............................................................. 156

Using the Trailing Curtain Sync ....................................................... 158

Distance and Aperture when Using the Built-in Flash............160

Lens Compatibility with the Built-in Flash ...............................161

Using an External Flash (Optional) ...........................................162

Using P-TTL Auto Mode .................................................................. 163

Using High-Speed Flash Sync Mode............................................... 164

Using Flash in Wireless Mode ......................................................... 165

Red-Eye Reduction.......................................................................... 168

Trailing Curtain Sync........................................................................ 169

Connecting an External Flash with an Extension Cord.................... 169

Multiple Flash Shooting Using Extension Cords.............................. 170

Contrast-Control-Sync Flash............................................................ 171

Shooting Settings 173

Setting the File Format...............................................................174

Setting the JPEG Recorded Pixels .................................................. 174

Setting the JPEG Quality Level........................................................ 175

Setting the File Format..................................................................... 177

Setting the Green Button Function ...........................................179

Setting the White Balance .........................................................182

Adjusting the White Balance Manually............................................. 184

Fine-Tuning the White Balance........................................................ 186

Setting the Color Space ................................................................... 187

Correcting Images ......................................................................189

Adjusting the Brightness .................................................................. 189

Lens Correction................................................................................ 192

Setting the Image Finishing Tone.............................................194

Setting Custom Image ..................................................................... 194

Setting Cross Processing................................................................. 196

Playback Functions 199

Playback Functions Operation..................................................200

Playback Mode Palette Setting Items .............................................. 200

Playback Menu Setting Items .......................................................... 201

Enlarging Images........................................................................202

Displaying Multiple Images .......................................................204

Multi-image Display Screen ............................................................. 204

Displaying Images by Folder............................................................ 205

Displaying Images by Shooting Date (Calendar Display) ................ 206

Joining Multiple Images (Index) ....................................................... 207

Slideshow ....................................................................................210

Setting the Slideshow Display.......................................................... 210

Starting the Slideshow ..................................................................... 211

Rotating Images..........................................................................213

Comparing Images .....................................................................214

Deleting Multiple Images ...........................................................215

Deleting Selected Images ................................................................ 215

Deleting a Folder.............................................................................. 216

Deleting All Images .......................................................................... 218

Protecting Images from Deletion (Protect) ..............................219

Protecting a Single Image ................................................................ 219

Protecting All Images ....................................................................... 220

Connecting the Camera to an AV Device .................................221

Processing Images 223

Changing the Image Size ...........................................................224

Changing the Number of Recorded Pixels and Quality Level

(Resize)............................................................................................ 224

Cutting Out Part of the Image (Cropping) ........................................ 225

Processing Images with Digital Filters.....................................227

Applying the Digital Filter ................................................................. 229

Recreating Filter Effects................................................................... 230

Searching for the Original Image ..................................................... 232

Developing RAW Images ...........................................................233

Developing One RAW Image ........................................................... 233

Developing Multiple RAW Images ................................................... 234

Specifying the Parameters ............................................................... 236

Readjusting Images Shot in JPEG Format...............................238

Changing Additional Settings 239

How to Operate the Set-up Menu ..............................................240

Set-up Menu Setting Items .............................................................. 240

Formatting an SD Memory Card................................................242

Setting the Beep, Date and Time, and Display Language ......243

Setting the Beep .............................................................................. 243

Changing the Date and Time Display .............................................. 244

Setting the World Time .................................................................... 244

Setting the Display Language .......................................................... 247

Adjusting the Monitor and the Menu Display ..........................248

Setting the Text Size ........................................................................ 248

Setting the Guide Display Time ....................................................... 248

Setting the Status Screen Display ................................................... 248

Setting the Display for Instant Review ............................................. 249

Adjusting the Brightness of the Monitor ........................................... 250

Adjusting the Color of the Monitor.................................................... 251

Setting the Folder Name/File Number Naming Convention ...252

Selecting the Folder Name .............................................................. 252

Selecting the File Number Setting ................................................... 252

Selecting the Power Settings ....................................................253

Setting Auto Power Off .................................................................... 253

Setting the Battery Type .................................................................. 253

Setting the Operation of the Power Lamp........................................ 254

Setting the DPOF Settings .........................................................255

Setting the Photographer Information Saved to Exif ..............257

Correcting Defective Pixels in the CMOS Sensor

(Pixel Mapping) ...........................................................................259

Selecting Settings to Save in the Camera (Memory)...............260

Connecting to a Computer 263

Using Captured Images on a Computer ...................................264

Saving Images on Your Computer ............................................265

Setting USB Connection Mode ........................................................ 265

Saving Images by Connecting Your Camera and Your Computer....266

Using the Provided Software.....................................................268

Installing the Software...................................................................... 268

The PENTAX Digital Camera Utility 4 Screen ................................. 270

Appendix 275

Default Settings ..........................................................................276

Resetting the Menu .......................................................................... 280

Functions Available with Various Lens Combinations...........282

Notes on [22. Using Aperture Ring] ................................................. 284

Cleaning the CMOS Sensor .......................................................285

Removing Dust by Shaking the CMOS Sensor (Dust Removal) ..... 285

Detecting Dust on the CMOS Sensor (Dust Alert) ........................... 286

Removing Dust with a Blower .......................................................... 287

Optional Accessories.................................................................289

Error Messages...........................................................................293

Troubleshooting .........................................................................295

Main Specifications .................................................................... 298

Glossary ......................................................................................302

Index ............................................................................................307

WARRANTY POLICY ..................................................................313

Composition of the Operating Manual

This Operating Manual contains the following chapters.

1 Before Using Your Camera

Explains camera characteristics, accessories and the names and functions of various parts.

2 Getting Started

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

3 Basic Operations

Explains the procedures for taking and playing back pictures.

4 Shooting Functions

Explains the shooting-related functions.

5 Using the Flash

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

6 Shooting Settings

Explains the procedures for configuring image processing and setting the file format.

7 Playback Functions

Explains the procedures for playing back, deleting, and protecting images.

8 Processing Images

Explains the procedures for changing the image size, using image filters and processing pictures taken in RAW format.

9 Changing Additional Settings

Explains the procedures for changing the camera settings, such as the monitor settings and the image folder naming convention.

10 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.

11 Appendix

Explains troubleshooting, introduces optional accessories and provides various resources.

The symbols used in this Operating Manual are explained below.

Indicates reference page number 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 working parts before use.

a Camera Characteristics ............................ 14

Checking the Contents of the Package .............. 16

Names and Functions of Working Parts ............ 17

Display Indicators ................................................22

How to Change Function Settings ...................... 32

a Camera Characteristics

• Features a 23.6×15.8 mm CMOS sensor with approximately 12.4 million effective pixels for high precision and a wide dynamic range.

• Features Shake Reduction (SR), an image sensor shifting shake

Before Using Your Camera

reduction system. This enables you to capture sharp pictures with minimal camera shake regardless of the lens type.

• Features a viewfinder similar to that of a conventional 35 mm camera, with a magnification of approximately 0.85 and field of view of approximately 96%, for easier image composition and manual focusing.

• Features a large 2.7-inch monitor with approximately 230,000 dots, a wide viewing angle and brightness and color adjusting functions for high-precision viewing performance.

• Uses AA lithium batteries, AA Ni-MH rechargeable batteries or AA alkaline batteries.

• Features a Live View function for shooting while viewing the subject in real-time on the monitor.

• Movies can be recorded by taking advantage of the camera lens properties. The camera can also output composite video so that you can view recorded images and movies on a monitor such as a TV screen.

• A user-friendly design has been implemented in various parts of the camera. The large text size, high-contrast monitor and easy-to-use menus make the camera easier to operate.

• The CMOS sensor features a special SP coating to prevent dust sticking to the sensor. The Dust Removal function also shakes the CMOS sensor for removing collected dust.

• Features Digital Filters to internally process the image in the camera. You can use digital filters such as Star Burst or Soft while taking pictures or to process images after taking them.

• Features Custom Image which allows you to adjust settings while previewing the edited image, enabling a wider range of expression.

• Records in the versatile JPEG format or the high quality and fully editable RAW format. You can also select JPEG+RAW and record in both formats simultaneously. Pictures taken in RAW format can be easily processed internally by the camera.

• Features Sensitivity Priority mode K that automatically adjusts aperture and shutter speed according to the set sensitivity.

The captured area (view angle) will differ between the a and 35 mm SLR cameras even if the same lens is used because the format size for 35 mm film and CMOS sensor are different.

Sizes for 35 mm film and CMOS sensor

35 mm film: 36×24 mm a CMOS sensor: 23.6×15.8 mm

Angles of view being equal, the focal length of a lens used with a 35 mm camera must be approximately 1.5 times longer than that of a. To obtain an angle of view framing the same area, divide the focal length of the 35 mm lens by 1.5.

Example) To capture the same image as a 150 mm lens attached to a 35 mm

camera 150÷1.5=100 Use a 100 mm lens with the a.

Inversely, multiply the focal length of the lens used with the a by 1.5 to determine the focal length for 35 mm cameras.

Example) If 300 mm lens is used with the a

300×1.5=450 Focal length is equivalent to a 450 mm lens on a 35 mm camera.

Shake Reduction (SR)

Shake Reduction (SR) on the a features a PENTAX original system which uses magnetic force to move the image sensor at high speeds, compensating camera shake. The camera may generate some operating noise when it is shaken, such as when changing the composition of a picture. This is normal and not a malfunction.

Before Using Your Camera

Checking the Contents of the Package

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

Before Using Your Camera

Hot shoe cover FK

(Installed on camera)

USB cable

I-USB7

Four AA lithium batteries Operating Manual

Refer to p.289 for information on optional accessories.

Eyecup F

(Installed on camera)

(this manual)

Strap

O-ST53

Body mount cover

(Installed on camera)

Software (CD-ROM)

S-SW99

Names and Functions of Working Parts

Power lamp

Self-timer lamp/

Remote control receiver

Card cover

Lens mount index

(red dot)

Lens unlock button

Built-in flash

PC/AV terminal

Terminal cover

Hot shoe

Speaker

Strap lug

Microphone

Mirror

AF coupler

Lens information contacts

Diopter adjustment lever

Viewfinder

Card access lamp

Monitor

Before Using Your Camera

Battery cover

Tripod socket

unlock lever

Battery cover

* In the second illustration, the camera is shown with the Eyecup FQ removed.

Capture Mode

Functions of buttons, dials and levers used during shooting are noted.

Before Using Your Camera

The factory default settings are explained here. Depe nding on the button, these settings can be changed.

9 0

a b c

d e

1 | (Green) button

You can assign a function to this button. (p.179)

2 Shutter release button

Press to capture images. (p.64)

3 Main switch

Move to turn the camera on and off. (p.51)

4 Lens unlock button

Press to detach the lens. (p.49)

5 mc button

Sets the EV compensation and aperture values. (p.94, p.100, p.107)

6 Mode dial

Changes Capture mode. (p.83)

7 Focus mode lever

Switches between autofocus mode (p.112) and manual focus mode (p.121).

8 K/i button

Press to pop up the built-in flash. (p.67)

9 e-dial

Sets the shutter speed, aperture, sensitivity and EV compensation values.

0 =/L button

You can select the function of this button either to focus on the target or to lock the exposure value. (p.102, p.108, p.114)

a Q button

Switches to Playback mode. (p.74)

b U button

Displays the Live View. (p.143)

c M button

Displays the status screen (p.23)

Displays the control panel when the status screen is shown. (p.24)

d 4 button

Displays the screen for setting the AF point. (p.117)

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

e Four-way controller

(2345)

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

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

f 3 button

Displays the [A Rec. Mode 1] menu (p.79). Next, press the four-way controller (5) to display other menus.

Before Using Your Camera

Playback Mode

Functions of buttons, dials and levers used during playback are noted.

Before Using Your Camera

7 8

9 0

1 Shutter release button

Press halfway to switch to Capture mode.

2 Main switch

Move to turn the camera on and off. (p.51)

3 | (Green) button

Press to change the settings, such as resetting the values. (p.179)

4 K/i button

Press to delete images. (p.75)

5 e-dial

Use this to enlarge an image (p.202) or display multiple images at the same time (p.204).

7 M button

Displays shooting information on the monitor. (p.25)

8 4 button

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

9 Four-way controller

(2345)

Use this to move the cursor or change items in the menu or playback screen.

0 3 button

Displays the [Q Playback 1] menu (p.201). Next, press the four-way controller (5) to display other menus.

6 Q button

Switches to Capture mode.

References to Button Names

In this Operating Manual, the buttons of the fourway controller are referred to in the following way.

Before Using Your Camera

Display Indicators

Monitor

The following indicators

Before Using Your Camera

appear on the monitor depending on the status of the camera.

Monitor

The brightness and the color of the monitor can be adjusted. (p.250, p.251)

At Start-up or when Operating the Mode Dial

Guides appear on the monitor for 3 seconds (default setting) when the camera is switched on or the mode dial is turned.

To not show indicators, set [Guide Display] to [Off] in the [R Set-up 1] menu. (p.248)

Program

Automatic Exposure

10/10/2009

1 Capture mode (p.83) 3 Current date and time (p.56) 2 World time (p.244)

(only when set to Destination)

10:30AM

Capture Mode

HDR OFF

OFF

While shooting, the status screen is displayed showing the current shooting function settings. You can change the screen displayed by pressing the M button.

125 5.6F

200

1122+3-3

12M

AF.A

AWB

ISO

[37]

AUTO

JPEG

ISO

Status screen

(All items are displayed here for explanatory purposes. The actual display may differ.)

Custom Image Bright

JPEG

10/10/’09

AF.A

12M

OFF

10:30AM

HDR

OFF

[37]

Control panel Blank

Before Using Your Camera

SHIFT

2000 2.8

ISO

1600

AUTO

1122+3-3

±1.0

G1A1

12 M

JPEG

AWB

AF.A

11 1 2

ISO

[

15 16

22 23 24 25 26

]

34567

910

18 19 20

1 Capture Mode (p.83) 14 EV bar 2 AE Lock (p.108) 15 Flash Exposure Compensation 3 Multi-exposure (p.138)/Digital

Filter (p.140)/HDR Capture (p.191) /Cross Processing (p.196)

(p.72)

16 Adjust White Balance (p.186)

17 Drive Mode (p.78) 4 Custom Image (p.194) 18 White Balance (p.182) 5 Focus Mode (p.112) 19 AF point (p.117) 6 AE Metering (p.104) 20 ISO (p.90) 7 Battery level (p.40) 21 Flash Mode (p.67) 8 E-dial guide 22 File Format (p.177) 9 Shutter speed 23 JPEG Recorded Pixels (p.174)

10 Aperture value 24 JPEG Quality (p.175) 11 ISO AUTO 25 Shake Reduction (p.128) 12 Sensitivity (p.90) 26 Remaining image storage capacity 13 EV Compensation (p.107)/

Exposure Bracketing (p.109)

HDR

OFF

Control panel

Press the M button in the status screen to display the control panel and change settings.

Before Using Your Camera

Custom Image Bright

OFF

HDR

OFF

AF.A

JPEG

12 M

[

10/10/’09

10:30AM

]

1 2

43 567

98101112

1413 15 16 17

18 19

1 Function name 11 Highlight Correction (p.189) 2 Setting 12 Shadow Correction (p.190) 3 Custom Image (p.194) 13 File Format (p.177) 4 Cross Processing (p.196) 14 JPEG Recorded Pixels (p.174) 5 Digital Filter (p.140) 15 JPEG Quality (p.175) 6 HDR Capture (p.191) 16 Distortion Correction (p.192) 7 Shake Reduction (p.128) 17 Lateral Chromatic Aberration 8 AE Metering (p.104)

Correction (p.192)

9 AF Mode (p.115) 18 Date and Time

10 Select AF point (p.117) 19 Remaining image storage capacity

• Settings that cannot be changed due to the current camera setup cannot be selected. The status screen will disappear if no operations are made within 30 seconds.

• Press the

•

If no operations are made within 30 seconds in the control panel, the status

button to display it again.

screen will reappear.

•

If [Shooting Info Display] is set to O (On) in [Memory] (p.260) of the [A Rec. Mode 4] menu and the blank screen is selected, the next time the camera is turned on the blank screen is displayed first.

Playback Mode

The camera switches the type of information display when you press the M button during playback.

Standard Captured image, file format and indicators are displayed.

Histogram display

Detailed information display

Captured image and histogram (Brightness/RGB) are displayed. Not available during movie playback.

Detailed information on how and when the image was taken is displayed.

No info. display Only captured image is displayed.

2000 F5.6 100-0001

Standard

2000 F5.6 100-0001

Histogram display

AF.A

10:00AM

AdobeRGB

100-0001

2000

F2.8 +1.5 -0.5

ISO

200

JPEG

10/10/’09

±0 ±0

±0 ±0 ±0

No info. display Detailed information display

The information that is shown first during playback is the same as that of the last playback in the previous session. If [Playback Info Display] is set to P (Off) in [Memory] (p.260) of the [A Rec. Mode 4] menu, the [Standard] screen is always displayed first when the camera is turned on.

Before Using Your Camera

200

Detailed information display

Use the four-way controller (23) to switch between pages. The copyright information is displayed on page 2.

Page 1

Before Using Your Camera

Still Picture

AF.A

2000

F2.8 +1.5 -0.5

ISO

200

JPEG

10/10/’09

Movie

1.6

10/10/’09

3:2

10:00AM

min

10:00AM

200

AdobeRGB

100-0001

F2.8

sec

G2MONO

+1.5

100-0001

±0 ±0 ±0 ±0 ±0

24 25

78 9

21 22

10 11 12 13 14 15

23 24 25 26

33 21 22

18 191716

17131211

3029

Page 2

Still Picture/Movie

Photographer

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOP QRSTUVWXYZ

2 3

34 35

34 36

1 Rotation information (p.213) 19 Digital Filter (p.140) 2 Captured image 20 Sensitivity (p.90) 3 Protect (p.219) 21 White Balance (p.182) 4 Capture Mode (p.83) 22 Adjust White Balance (p.186) 5 Focus Mode (p.112) 23 File Format (p.177) 6 AF point (p.117)/

Autofocus Mode (p.144)

7 Flash Mode (p.67) 26 Color Space (p.187) 8 AE Metering (p.104) 27 Image Tone (p.194)

9 Lens focal length 28 Custom Image parameters (p.194) 10 Shutter speed 29 Shooting date/time 11 Shake Reduction (p.128) 30 Folder number-File number 12 Drive Mode (p.78) 13 HDR Capture (p.191)/

Multi-exposure (p.138)/ Cross Processing (p.196)

14 Highlight Correction (p.189) 34 Information tampering warning 15 Shadow Correction (p.190) 35 Photographer (p.257) 16 Aperture value 36 Copyright Holder (p.257) 17 EV Compensation (p.107) 18 Flash Exposure Compensation

(p.72)

* For images shot with Live View, the autofocus mode is displayed for indicator 6. * Indicators 7 and 18 appear only for images in which the flash was discharged. * Indicators 13, 14, 15, 19, and 22 appear only for images taken with the

corresponding functions enabled.

* Indicators 24 and 25 do not appear for RAW images.

24 Recorded Pixels (p.148, p.174) 25 Quality Level (p.148, p.175)

(p.252)

31 Recording time 32 Sound (p.148) 33 Audio mode (p.148)

Before Using Your Camera

Histogram Display

The following histograms can be displayed when playing back still pictures. The “Brightness histogram” shows the distribution of brightness and the “RGB histogram” shows the distribution of color intensity. Press the four-way controller (23) to switch between “Brightness histogram”

and “RGB histogram”.

Before Using Your Camera

2000 F5.6 100-0001

64 5 7 3 4 5 6 73

Brightness histogram RGB histogram

1 Histogram (Brightness) 7 Folder number-File number

2 Switch RGB histogram/ Brightness

histogram

3 File Format 10 Histogram (B)

4 Shutter speed 11 Switch Brightness histogram/

5 Aperture value

6 Protect

* Indicator 6 appears only for images with Protect setting.

If [Bright/Dark Area] is set to O (On) in [Playback Display Method] of the [Q Playback 1] menu, areas affected by bright or dark portions blink (except when in RGB histogram display and Detailed information display). (p.203)

8 Histogram (R) 9 Histogram (G)

RGB histogram

Using the Histogram

A histogram shows the brightness distribution of an image. The horizontal axis represents brightness (dark at the left and bright at the right) and the vertical axis represents the number of pixels. The shape and the distribution of the histogram before and after shooting tells you whether the exposure level and contrast are correct or not, and lets you decide if you need to adjust the exposure and take a picture again.

1 Adjusting the Exposure (p.107) 1 Adjusting the Brightness (p.189)

Understanding Brightness

When the brightness is correct and there are no overly bright or dark areas, the graph peaks in the middle. If the image is too dark, the peak is on the left side, and if it is too bright, the peak is on the right side.

Number of pixels→

Dark portions Bright portions

←Brightness→(Dark) (Bright)

Before Using Your Camera

Dark image Image with few bright

or dark areas

Bright image

When the image is too dark, the part to the left is cut off (dark portions with no detail) and when the image is too bright, the part to the right is cut off (bright portions with no detail). Bright portions blink red and dark portions blink yellow on the monitor when [Bright/Dark Area] is O (On).

1 Playing Back Images (p.74) 1 Setting the Display for Instant Review (p.249)

Understanding Color Balance

Distribution of color intensity is displayed for each color in the RGB histogram. The right side of the graphs look similar for images that have White Balance adjusted well. If only one color is lopsided to the left, that color is too intense.

1 Setting the White Balance (p.182)

Before Using Your Camera

Guide Indicators

The following indicators appear on the monitor to indicate the keys, buttons and e-dial that can be operated at that time.

Example)

2 Four-way controller (2) 3 button 3 Four-way controller (3) 4 button 4 Four-way controller (4) | Green button

5 Four-way controller (5) mmc button

S e-dial M button

Shutter release button K/i button

Viewfinder

The following information appears in the viewfinder.

3 4

689105 7

1 AF frame (p.50) 2 Spot metering frame (p.104) 3 Flash status (p.67)

Lit: when flash is available. Blinks: when flash is recommended but not set.

4 Picture mode icon (p.84)

The icon for Picture mode in use appears. U (Normal mode in I), = (Portrait), s (Landscape), q (Macro), \ (Moving Object), . (Night Scene Portrait)

5 Shake Reduction (p.128)

Appears when the Shake Reduction function is activated.

6 Shutter speed

Shutter speed when capturing or adjusting. Underlined when shutter speed can be adjusted with the e-dial.

7 Aperture value

Aperture value when capturing or adjusting. Underlined when aperture value can be adjusted with the e-dial.

8 Focus indicator (p.62)

Lit: when the subject is focused. Blinks: when the subject is not in focus.

9 Number of recordable images/EV compensation value

Displays the number of recordable images with current quality and recorded pixel setting. The difference from the proper exposure value appears when the mode dial is set to a. (p.101) m: EV Compensation (p.107)

Underlined when EV compensation value can be adjusted with the edial while the mc button is pressed.

o: Sensitivity

Underlined when the sensitivity can be adjusted with the e-dial

10 Focus mode (p.112)

Appears when set to \.

11 AE lock (p.108)

Appears while the AE lock is activated.

Before Using Your Camera

• [9999] is the maximum number of recordable images that can be displayed in the viewfinder. Even if the number of recordable images is 10000 or more, [9999] is displayed.

• When [10. AF/AE-L Button] is set to [Cancel AF] in the [A Custom Setting 2] menu, \ is displayed in the viewfinder while the =/L button is pressed. (p.114)

How to Change Function Settings

Function settings can be changed using the direct keys, the control panel or the menu. This section explains the basic ways to change function settings.

Before Using Your Camera

Using the Direct Keys

In Capture mode, you can set Drive Mode, Flash Mode, White Balance and Sensitivity by pressing the four-way controller (2345), and set AF point by pressing the 4 button. (p.78) Below, how to set the flash mode will be explained as an example.

Press the four-way controller (3) in Capture mode.

The [Flash Mode] screen appears.

Use the four-way controller (45) to select a flash mode.

Flash Mode

Auto Flash Discharge

Press the 4 button.

The camera is ready to take a picture.

Cancel OK

0.0

Using the Control Panel

HDR OFF

OFF

While shooting, the current settings can be checked on the status screen. You can also switch the display to the control panel and change settings. Below, how to set the JPEG Quality will be explained as an example.

Check the status screen and then press the M button.

The control panel appears.

Before Using Your Camera

Press the M button when the status screen is not displayed.

Use the four-way controller (2345) to select an item you want to change the setting for.

You cannot select items that cannot be changed.

AUTO

PICT

20 5.6F

ISO

800

AUTO

1122+3-3

12 M

JPEG

Custom Image Bright

OFF

AF.A

JPEG

12 M

10/10/’09

10:30AM

OFF

AWB

AF.A

HDR

OFF

ISO

[37]

HDR OFF

OFF

Press the 4 button.

JPEG Quality

The setup screen of the selected item appears.

Before Using Your Camera

Use the four-way controller (45) or e-dial to select a setting

OFF

AF.A

JPEG

12 M

10/10/’09

JPEG Quality

OFF

10:30AM

HDR

OFF

[37]

128

value.

Cancel

Press the 4 button.

The camera returns to the control panel and is ready to take a picture.

• You can also change the setting by turning the e-dial after selecting the item you want to change in Step 2 on p.33. For detailed settings such as parameters, press the 4 button and then make changes.

• The status screen and control panel are not displayed when Live View (p.143) is displayed. Make the settings in the [A Rec. Mode] menu.

Using the Menus

OFF

This section explains operation methods for the [A Rec. Mode], [Q Playback], [R Set-up] and [A Custom Setting] menus. Below, how to set [HDR Capture] in the [A Rec. Mode 2] menu will be explained as an example.

Press the 3 button in Capture mode.

The [A Rec. Mode 1] menu appears on the monitor.

If the 3 button is pressed in Playback mode, the [Q Playback 1] menu appears. When the mode dial is set to H (Scene), the [H Scene] menu appears instead.

Press the four-way controller (5).

Each time the four-way controller (5) is pressed, the menu will change in the following sequence: [A Rec. Mode 2], [A Rec. Mode 3], [A Rec. Mode 4], [Q Playback 1] ··· [A Rec. Mode 1].

You can also use the e-dial to switch the menus.

1 234

Custom Image File Format JPEG Recorded Pixels JPEG Quality D-Range Setting Lens Correction

Exit

JPEG

12 M

Before Using Your Camera

Use the four-way controller (23) to choose an item.

1 234

Cross Processing Digital Filter HDR Capture Multi-exposure AF Mode AE Metering Select AF Point

Exit

OFF

Off

AF.A

OFF

Press the four-way controller (5).

Available settings are displayed.

The frame moves to the pop-up menu if there is one.

Before Using Your Camera

Use the four-way controller (23) to select a setting.

Press the 4 button.

1 234

Cross Processing Digital Filter HDR Capture Multi-exposure AF Mode AE Metering Select AF Point

Exit

1 234

Cross Processing Digital Filter HDR Capture Multi-exposure AF Mode AE Metering Select AF Point

Cancel OK

OFF

Off

AF.A

OFF

Off Standard Strong

The camera returns to the menu screen. Next, set other items.

Press the 3 button to exit the menu and the screen that was displayed before selecting the menu appears again.

Even after you press the 3 button and close the menu screen, your settings will not be saved if the camera is turned off improperly (such as by removing the batteries while the camera is on).

Refer to the following pages for details on each menu item.

•[A Rec. Mode] menu 1 p.79

•[Q Playback] menu 1 p.201

•[R Set-up] menu 1 p.240

•[A Custom Setting] menu 1 p.81

2 Getting Started

This chapter explains your first steps from purchasing the camera to taking pictures. Be sure to read it and follow the instructions.

Attaching the Strap .............................................. 38

Inserting the Batteries ......................................... 39

Inserting/Removing the SD Memory Card .........44

Attaching the Lens ............................................... 48

Adjusting the Viewfinder Diopter ....................... 50

Turning the Camera On and Off .......................... 51

Initial Settings ....................................................... 52

Attaching the Strap

Pass the end of the strap through the strap lug, then secure it on the inside of the

Getting Started

clasp.

Attach the other end of the strap in the same manner as described above.

Inserting the Batteries

Insert batteries into the camera. Use four AA lithium batteries, AA Ni-MH rechargeable batteries, or AA alkaline batteries.

This camera is packaged with AA lithium batteries for checking the camera functionality but other kinds of batteries are also compatible. Use the compatible batteries according to the intended purpose.

Available Batteries Characteristics

AA lithium batteries

AA Ni-MH rechargeable batteries

AA alkaline batteries

• Do not use the Ni-Mn batteries as the batteries’ voltage characteristics may cause a malfunction.

• AA lithium batteries and AA alkaline batteries that can be used in this camera are not rechargeable.

• 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. If you leave them in the camera for a long time, they may leak.

• If the date and time settings have been reset when you insert new batteries after a long time has passed since the batteries were removed, follow the procedure for “Setting the Date and Time” (p.56).

• Insert the batteries correctly. Batteries inserted incorrectly may cause a camera breakdown. Wipe the electrodes of the batteries before inserting.

• Replace all the batteries at the same time and do not mix battery types, brands or old batteries with new ones. Otherwise, malfunctions, such as the battery level not being displayed properly, may occur.

Provided with the camera. Recommended when using the camera in cold climates.

These are rechargeable and are economical. A commercially available battery charger that is compatible with the batteries is required.

These are easily obtainable when the batteries you are using run out but they may not support all the camera functions under certain conditions. We do not recommend using them except in emergencies or when checking the camera functionality.

Getting Started

Push and hold the battery cover unlock lever as shown in the illustration (1), slide the battery cover toward the lens (2) and then flip open.

Insert the batteries according to the +/– indicators in the battery chamber.

Press down on the batteries with the battery cover (3) and slide it as shown in the illustration (4) to close.

Be sure to fully close the battery cover. The camera will not turn on if the battery cover is open.

• Use the AC adapter kit K-AC84 (optional) when using the camera for a prolonged period. (p.42)

• Check the orientation of the batteries if the camera does not operate properly after replacing the batteries.

Battery Level Indicator

You can confirm remaining battery level by checking the w displayed on the status screen.

Status Screen Battery Level

w (Green) Batteries are full.

f (Orange) Batteries are running low. z (Red) Batteries are almost empty.

“Battery depleted” The camera turns off after displaying the message.

f or z (Red) may appear even when the battery level is sufficient if the camera is used at low temperatures or when performing continuous shooting consecutively. In this situation, turn the camera off and on again. If w (Green) appears, you can use the camera.

Approximate Image Storage Capacity and Playback Time (New Batteries)

(Based on ambient operating temperature of 23 ºC)

Batteries

AA lithium batteries 1900 1100 680 minutes

AA Ni-MH rechargeable batteries (1900mAh)

AA alkaline batteries 210 130 350 minutes

The image storage capacity (normal recording and flash use 50%) is based on measuring conditions in accordance with CIPA standards, while other data is based on our measuring conditions. Some deviation from the above figures may occur in actual use depending on shooting mode and shooting conditions.

• Battery performance temporarily decreases as the temperature decreases. When using the camera in cold climates, have extra batteries at hand and keep them warm in your pocket. Battery performance will return to normal when returned to room temperature.

• Have extra batteries ready when traveling overseas, taking pictures in cold climates, or when you will be taking a lot of pictures.

Normal

Recording

640 420 390 minutes

Flash

Photography

(50% Use)

Playback Time

Getting Started

Using the AC Adapter (Optional)

We recommend using the AC adapter kit K-AC84 (optional) when using the monitor for a long time or when connecting the camera to a computer or AV device.

Getting Started

Make sure the camera is turned off.

If batteries are inserted into the camera, open the battery cover and remove the batteries. Refer to Step 1 on p.40.

Open the battery cover and pull out the electric cable cover (1) on the right side of the battery chamber.

Insert the DC coupler into the battery chamber.

Pull out the DC coupler’s electric cable as shown in the illustration.

Close the battery cover.

Refer to Step 3 on p.40.

Connect the DC terminal on the AC adapter to the DC coupler.

Connect the AC plug cord to the AC adapter.

Plug the AC cord into the power outlet.

• Make sure the camera is turned off before connecting or disconnecting the AC adapter.

• Make sure connections are secure between the terminals. SD Memory Card or data may be corrupted if disconnected while the camera is recording or reading data.

• Keep the electric cable cover closed when not using the AC adapter.

Getting Started

Be sure to read the manual of the AC adapter kit K-AC84 when using the AC adapter.

Inserting/Removing the SD Memory Card

This camera uses either an SD Memory Card or an SDHC Memory Card. (Both cards are referred to as SD Memory Cards hereafter.) Make sure the camera is turned off before inserting or removing the SD Memory Card (commercially available).

Getting Started

• Do not remove the SD Memory Card while the card access lamp is lit.

• Use this camera to format (initialize) an SD Memory Card that is unused or has been used on other cameras or digital devices. Refer to “Formatting an SD Memory Card” (p.242) for details on formatting.

• Use a high-speed memory card when recording movies. If the write speed cannot keep up with the recording speed, the writing may stop during recording.

Make sure that the camera is turned off.

Slide the card cover in the direction of the arrow and then lift it to open (1→2).

Insert the card all the way with the SD Memory Card label facing toward the monitor.

Push the SD Memory Card in once to remove.

Close the card cover (3) and then slide it in the direction of the arrow (4).

Precautions When Using the SD Memory Card

• 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.

• Care should be taken when removing the SD Memory Card immediately after using the camera because the card may be hot.

• Do not open the card cover, remove the SD Memory Card or turn the camera off while images are being played back or saved to the card, or the camera is connected to a computer with the USB cable. Doing so 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 during 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 is ejected or the batteries are removed while the data

on the card is being recorded or accessed.

Write-protect

switch

Getting Started

• 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.

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

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

• Be sure to format SD Memory Cards that are unused or have been used on

another camera.

Getting Started

1 Formatting an SD Memory Card (p.242)

• Please note that formatting the SD Memory Card will not necessarily delete the data so that it cannot be recovered using off-the-shelf data recovery 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. There are off-theshelf secure data deletion software programs available that will completely delete the data. In any case, the data on your SD Memory Card should be managed at your own risk.

Recorded Pixels and Quality Level

When the File Format is JPEG

Choose the number of recorded pixels (size) and quality level (JPEG data compression rate) of pictures according to how you intend to use the pictures you have taken. Pictures with larger recorded pixels or more stars (E) are clearer when printed. However, the number of pictures that can be taken (the number of pictures that can be recorded on an SD Memory Card) decreases with larger file sizes. The quality of the captured photo or printed picture depends on the quality level, exposure control, resolution of the printer and a variety of other factors so you do not need to select more than the required number of pixels. For example, to print in postcard size, i (1728×1152) is adequate. Set the appropriate recorded pixels and quality level depending on how the picture will be used.

1 Setting the JPEG Recorded Pixels (p.174) 1 Setting the JPEG Quality Level (p.175)

JPEG Recorded Pixels, JPEG Quality and Approximate Image

Storage Capacity

(When using a 1 GB SD Memory Card)

JPEG Quality

JPEG Rec. Pixels

E (4288×2848) 138 244 479 J (3936×2624) 163 289 564

P (3072×2048) 267 468 902

(1728×1152) 805 1373 2518

• The number of storable images may vary depending on the subject, shooting conditions, shooting mode and SD Memory Card, etc.

When the number of storable images exceeds 500, captured images are divided into folders containing 500 images each. However, in Exposure Bracketing, images will be stored in the same folder until shooting is completed, even if the number of images exceeds 500.

Best

Better

Good

When the File Format is RAW

With the a, you can record in the versatile JPEG format or the high quality and editable RAW format. For RAW file format, you can select PENTAX’s original PEF format or general-purpose DNG (Digital Negative) format designed by Adobe Systems. On a 1 GB SD Memory Card, you can record up to 48 images in both PEF and DNG formats.

1 Setting the File Format (p.177)

Getting Started

Attaching the Lens

Attach a proper lens to the camera's body. When you use one of the following lenses with the a, all the camera’s capture modes will be available.

(a) DA, DA L, D FA, FA J lenses (b) Lenses with an Aperture s (Auto) position, when used in the

Getting Started

s position

Turn the camera off before attaching or removing the lens to prevent unexpected lens movement.

• When lenses described in (b) are used in a position other than s, some

functions will be restricted. Refer to “Notes on [22. Using Aperture Ring]” (p.284).

• With factory default settings, the camera will not work with lenses other than those listed above and accessories. Set [22. Using Aperture Ring] to [Permitted] in the [A Custom Setting 4] menu to use them. (p.284)

Check that the camera is turned off.

Remove the body mount cover (1) and lens mount cover (2).

Be sure to put the lens down with the lens mount side facing upward to protect the lens mount from damage.

Align the Lens mount index (red dots: 3) on the camera and the lens, and secure by turning the lens clockwise until it clicks.

After attaching, turn the lens counterclockwise to check that the lens is locked in place.

Remove the front lens cap by pushing the indicated portions inward.

To detach the lens, hold down the lens unlock button (4) and turn the lens counterclockwise.

• We assume no responsibility nor liability for accidents, damages and malfunctions resulting from the use of lenses made by other manufacturers.

• The camera body and lens mount incorporate lens information contacts and an AF coupler. Dirt, dust, or corrosion may damage the electrical system. When necessary, clean the contacts with a soft dry cloth.

The body mount cover (1) is a cover to prevent scratches and block dust when shipped. Body Mount Cap K is sold separately and has a lock function.

Getting Started

Adjusting the Viewfinder Diopter

Adjust the viewfinder diopter to suit your eyesight. If it is difficult to see the viewfinder image clearly, slide the diopter adjustment lever sideways. You can adjust the diopter from approximately –2.5 to +1.5 m

Getting Started

Look through the viewfinder and slide the diopter adjustment lever left or right.

Adjust the lever until the AF frame in the viewfinder is focused.

Point the camera at a white wall or other bright and consistent surface.

–1

AF frame

• The Eyecup FQ is attached to the viewfinder portion when the camera leaves the factory. Diopter adjustment is available with the Eyecup F However, adjustment is easier with the eyecup removed.

• To remove the Eyecup F direction of the arrow. To attach the Eyecup F groove on the viewfinder eyepiece and push it into position.

• If it is difficult to see the viewfinder image clearly even if you use the diopter adjustment lever, use the optional diopter correction lens adapter M. However, the Eyecup F adapter. (p.291)

Q must be removed to use this

Q, pull it out in the

Q, align it with the

Q attached.

Turning the Camera On and Off

Turn the main switch to [ON].

The camera will turn on.

Set the main switch to the position [OFF] to turn off the camera.

• Always turn the camera off when not in use.

• The power will automatically turn off when you do not perform any operations within a set period of time. To reactivate the camera after it turns off automatically, turn it on again or perform any of the following.

- Press the shutter release button halfway.

-Press the Q button.

-Press the M button.

• By default, the camera is set to turn off automatically after 1 minute of inactivity. You can change the setting in [Auto Power Off] of the [R Set-up 3] menu. (p.253)

Getting Started

Initial Settings

The first time the camera is turned on after purchasing, the [

Language/u] screen

appears on the monitor. Follow the procedure below to set the language displayed on the monitor and the current

date and time. Once these settings are

Getting Started

made, you will not need to set them again when you turn on your camera.

If the [Date Adjustment] screen appears, set the date and time by following the procedure in “Setting the Date and Time” (p.56).

Cancel OK

Date Adjustment

Date Format

Date

Time

Settings complete

Cancel

Setting the Display Language

You can choose the language in which the menus, error messages, etc. are displayed from the following: English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Dutch, Danish, Swedish, Finnish, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Turkish, Greek, Russian, Korean, Chinese (traditional/ simplified) and Japanese.

mm/dd/yy

/01 /01 2009

00 00

24h

Use the four-way controller (2345) to select the desired language.

Cancel

Press the 4 button.

The [Initial Setting] screen for the selected language appears.

Press the four-way controller (3) twice and proceed to Step 10 of p.54 if [Hometown] does not have to be changed.

Press the four-way controller (3).

The cursor moves to W.

Press the four-way controller (5).

The [W Hometown] screen appears.

Use the four-way controller (45) to select a city.

Press the four-way controller (3).

The cursor moves to [DST] (daylight saving time).

Initial Setting

New York

Text Size

Settings complete

Cancel

Hometown

New York

DST

Cancel

English

Standard

Getting Started

Use the four-way controller (45) to select O or P.

Press the 4 button.

The camera returns to the [Initial Setting] screen.

Press the four-way controller (3).

The cursor moves to [Text Size].

Getting Started

Press the four-way controller (5) and use the four-way controller (23) to select [Standard] or [Large].

Selecting [Large] magnifies the selected menu item.

Press the 4 button.

Press the four-way controller (3) to select [Settings complete].

Press the 4 button.

The [Date Adjustment] screen appears.

In this manual, the menu screens hereafter are described with [Text Size] set to [Standard].

Initial Setting

New York

Text Size

Settings complete

Cancel

Initial Setting

New York

Text Size

Settings complete

Cancel

English

Standard Large

English

Standard

When the Wrong Language is Set

If you mistakenly select the wrong language in the [Language/u] screen and proceed to the [Date Adjustment] screen, you can perform the following operation to set the language back. If you have proceeded to switch the camera to Capture mode (and the camera is ready to take a picture), perform the following operation from Step 2 to set the language back.

Press the 3 button once to display the guides on the monitor.

The screen shown on the right is an example of the guides displayed. The displayed screen will vary depending on the selected language.

The guides appear on the monitor for 3 seconds.

Press the 3 button once.

[A 1] is displayed in the upper tab. H is displayed when the mode dial is set to H.

Press the four-way controller (5) five times.

[R 1] is displayed in the upper tab. Press the four-way controller (5) six times when the mode dial is set to

Press the four-way controller (3) to select [Language/ u].

Press the four-way controller (5).

The [Language/u] screen appears.

Use the four-way controller (2345) to select the desired language and press the 4 button.

The [R Set-up 1] menu in the selected language appears.

Refer to the following pages and set the desired city for [Hometown] and the current date and time as necessary.

• To change the hometown: “Setting the World Time” (p.244)

• To change the date and time: “Changing the Date and Time Display” (p.244)

ࡊࡠࠣ࡜ࡓ

⥄േ㔺಴

2009/01/01 00:00

Getting Started

• When the hometown and the date and time are not set, the [Initial Setting] screen or [Date Adjustment] screen will be displayed when the camera is turned on again.

• If you have not proceeded to the [Date Adjustment] screen, you can reselect a language using the four-way controller (5) in the [Language/u] screen.

Setting the Date and Time

Getting Started

Set the current date and time and the display style.

Press the four-way controller (5).

The frame moves to [mm/dd/yy].

Use the four-way controller (23) to choose the date format.

Choose [mm/dd/yy], [dd/mm/yy] or [yy/ mm/dd].

Press the four-way controller (5).

The frame moves to [24h].

Use the four-way controller (23) to select 24h (24-hour display) or 12h (12-hour display).

Date Adjustment

Date Format

Date

Time

Settings complete

Cancel

Date Adjustment

Date Format

Date

Time

Settings complete

Cancel

mm/dd/yy

/01 /01 2009

00 00

mm/dd/yy

/01 /01 2009

00 00

24h

Press the four-way controller (5).

The frame returns to [Date Format].

Press the four-way controller (3).

The frame moves to [Date].

Press the four-way controller (5).

The frame moves to the month.

Use the four-way controller (23) to set the month.

Set the day and year in the same manner.

Next, set the time.

If you select [12h] in Step 4, the setting switches between am and pm depending on the time.

Press the four-way controller (3) to select [Settings complete].

Press the 4 button.

Date Adjustment

Date Format

Date

Time

Settings complete

Cancel OK

Date Adjustment

Date Format

Date

Time

Settings complete

Cancel OK

The camera returns to the status screen and is ready to take a picture.

If you set the date and time with the menu operations, the screen will return to the [R Set-up 1] menu. In this case, press the 3 button.

mm/dd/yy

/01 /01 2009

00 00

mm/dd/yy

/01 /01 2009

00 00

Getting Started

24h

Pressing the 3 button while adjusting the date cancels the settings made up to that point and switches the camera to Capture mode. If the power is turned on when the date and time are not set, the [Date Adjustment] screen is displayed if the initial settings have been completed. You can also set the date later by menu operations. (p.244)

• When you press the 4 button in Step 10, the camera clock is reset to 00 seconds. To set the exact time, press the 4 button when the time signal (on the TV, radio, etc.) reaches 00 seconds.

• You can change the language and date and time settings with menu operations. (p.244, p.247)

Memo

3 Basic Operations

This chapter explains basic operations for shooting by setting mode dial to I (Auto Picture) to ensure successful capturing.

For information about advanced functions and settings for taking pictures, refer to chapter 4 and onward.

Basic Shooting Operation ................................... 60

Using a Zoom Lens .............................................. 66

Using the Built-in Flash ....................................... 67

Playing Back Pictures .......................................... 74

Basic Shooting Operation

Holding the Camera

How you hold the camera is important when taking pictures.

• Hold the camera firmly with both hands and keep your elbows close to your body.

• Press the shutter release button gently when taking a picture.

Basic Operations

Horizontal position Vertical position

• To reduce camera shake, support your body or the camera on a solid object such as a table, tree, or wall.

• Although there are individual differences among photographers, the limit shutter speed for a handheld camera is generally 1/(focal length ×1.5). For example, it is 1/75 of a second for a focal length of 50 mm and 1/150 of a second for 100 mm. Use a tripod or the Shake Reduction function (p.128) when using a lower shutter speed.

• When using a telephoto lens, a tripod that is heavier than the total weight of the camera and lens is recommended to avoid camera shake.

• Do not use the Shake Reduction function when using the camera on a tripod. (p.129)

Letting the Camera Choose the Optimal Settings

The a features various capture modes, focus modes, and drive modes for expressing your photographic vision. This section explains how to take pictures by simply pressing the shutter release button.

Set the mode dial to I.

The camera will select the optimal capture mode for the subject.

1 Selecting the Appropriate Capture Mode (p.83)

Set the focus mode lever to =.

The focus mode changes to = (Autofocus) mode.

When the shutter release button is pressed halfway in =, the lens focuses automatically. (p.112)

Basic Operations

Look through the viewfinder to view the subject.

A zoom lens can be used to change the size of the subject in the viewfinder. (p.66)

Position the subject inside the

Basic Operations

AF frame and press the shutter release button halfway.

The autofocus system operates. The focus indicator ] appears in the viewfinder when the subject comes into focus.

When set to I (Auto Picture) mode, the optimal capture mode is automatically selected from U (Standard), = (Portrait), s (Landscape), q (Macro), \ (Moving Object) or . (Night Scene Portrait).

The built-in flash pops up automatically when necessary.

1 Operating the shutter release button (p.64)

1 Subjects that are difficult to focus on (p.65)

1 Using the Built-in Flash (p.67)

Flash

status

Focus indicator

Press the shutter release button fully.

The picture is taken.

Del et e

Review the captured image on the monitor.

The image appears for 1 second on the monitor shortly after capturing (Instant Review).

1 Setting the Display for Instant Review (p.249)

You can magnify the image during Instant Review with the e-dial. (p.202)

You can delete the image during Instant Review by pressing the K/i button.

1 Deleting a Single Image (p.75)

• You can set the camera so that pressing the =/L button will focus automatically, in the same way as pressing the shutter release button halfway. (p.114)

• You can preview the image on the monitor and check the composition, exposure, and focus before taking pictures. (p.124)

Delete

Basic Operations

Operating the shutter release button

The shutter release button has two working positions.

Not pressed Pressed halfway

Pressing it down halfway (first position) turns on the viewfinder

indicators and the autofocus system operates. Pressing it fully

Basic Operations

(first position)

Pressed fully

(second position)

(second position) takes a picture.

• Press the shutter release button gently when taking a picture to prevent camera shake.

• Practice pressing the shutter release button halfway/fully to learn where the first position and second position are.

• The viewfinder indicators are displayed while the shutter release button is pressed halfway. The indicators are displayed for about 10 seconds (default setting) while the exposure metering timer is on after you take your finger off the button. (p.30, p.106)

Subjects that are difficult to focus on

The autofocus mechanism is not perfect. Focusing may be difficult when taking pictures under the following conditions. These also apply to manual focusing using the focus indicator ] in the viewfinder.

(a) Extremely low-contrast subjects such as a white wall in the

focusing area

(b) Subjects which do not reflect much light within the focusing

area (c) Fast moving objects (d) Strongly reflected light or strong backlighting (bright

background) (e) If repeating vertical or horizontal line patterns appear within

the focusing area (f) Multiple subjects in the foreground and background within the

focusing area

If the subject cannot be focused automatically, set the focus mode lever to \ and use the manual focus mode to focus on the subject with the aid of the matte field in the viewfinder. (p.122)

The subject may not be focused even when the ] (focus indicator) is displayed when (e) and (f) above apply.

Basic Operations

Using a Zoom Lens

Enlarge the subject (telephoto) or capture a wider area (wide angle) with a zoom lens. Adjust the subject to the desired size and take pictures.

Turn the zoom ring to the right or left.

Turn the zoom ring clockwise for

Basic Operations

telephoto and counterclockwise for wide angle.

Wide Angle Telephoto

• The smaller the number displayed for the focal length, the wider the angle. The larger the number, the more magnified the image appears.

• Power Zoom functions (Image Size Tracking, Zoom Clip, and Auto Zoom Effect) are not compatible with this camera.

Using the Built-in Flash

Use the following procedures to take pictures in low light or backlit conditions or when you want to use the built-in flash. The built-in flash is optimum at about 0.7 m to 5 m from the subject. Exposure will not be properly controlled and vignetting (darkening of the corners of the image due to a lack of light) may occur when used at a distance closer than 0.7 m (this distance varies slightly depending on the lens being used and the set sensitivity (p.160)).

Compatibility of built-in flash and lens

Vignetting may occur depending on the lens being used and the capture conditions. We recommend taking a test shot to check the compatibility.

1 Lens Compatibility with the Built-in Flash (p.161)

• When using the built-in flash, remove the lens hood before shooting.

• The built-in flash fully discharges for lenses without a function to set

aperture lens ring to s (Auto).

For details on the built-in flash and instructions on how to take pictures with an external flash, refer to the “Using the Flash” (p.155).

Setting the Flash Mode

Basic Operations

Flash Mode Function

The camera automatically measures the ambient light and determines whether to use the flash. The flash pops up and discharges automatically when necessary,

Auto Flash

Discharge

Manual Flash

Discharge

such as when using a shutter speed likely to cause camera shake or in backlit conditions (except when in s (Landscape), \ (Moving Object) or l (Night Snap) in H (Scene) mode). The flash may pop up but may not discharge if the camera determines that the flash is not necessary.

Discharges the flash manually. Discharges when the flash is popped up, does not discharge when retracted.

Flash Mode Function

Auto Flash+Red-

eye Reduction

Manual Flash+

Red-eye Reduct.

Slow-speed Sync

Slow-speed Sync+

Basic Operations

Red-eye

Trailing Curtain Sync

Wireless Mode

The flash modes that can be selected differ depending on the capture mode.

Capture Mode Selectable Flash Mode

I/=/s/q/\/./H C/b/i/D/r e/K/c E b/a E/F/k/r

Press the four-way controller (3) in Capture mode.

The [Flash Mode] screen appears.

The flash modes that can be selected for the set capture mode appear.

Discharges a pre-flash for red-eye reduction before the automatic flash.

Discharges the flash manually. A pre-flash for red-eye reduction is discharged before the main flash.

Sets to a slow shutter speed depending on the brightness. For example, when using this to shoot a portrait with the sunset in the background, both the person and the background are captured beautifully.

Discharges a pre-flash for red-eye reduction before the main flash is discharged with Slow-speed Sync.

Discharges the flash immediately before closing the shutter curtain. Captures moving objects as if they are leaving a trail behind. (p.158)

You can synchronize a dedicated external flash (AF540FGZ or AF360FGZ) without using a sync cord. (p.165)

/F/G/H/I/

Use the four-way controller (45) to select a flash mode.

Turn the e-dial to perform the flash exposure compensation. (p.72)

Press the 4 button.

The camera is ready to take a picture.

Flash Mode

Auto Flash Discharge

Cancel OK

0.0

Using Auto Flash Discharge Mode C, i (Automatic Flash Pop-up)

Set the mode dial to I, =, q, . or H.

The flash is deactivated when A (Night Scene), K (Sunset), n (Stage Lighting), U (Candlelight) or E (Museum) is selected in H (Scene) mode. The built-in flash does not pop up when set to l (Night Snap) in H (Scene) mode.

Basic Operations

Press the shutter release button halfway.

The built-in flash pops up if necessary and begins charging. When the flash is fully charged, b appears in the viewfinder. (p.30)

Press the shutter release button fully.

The picture is taken.

Push down on the portion indicated in the illustration to retract the built-in flash.

Switch between C (Auto Flash Discharge) and b (Manual Flash Discharge)

Basic Operations

by pressing the K/i button while the built-in flash is popped up.

Using Manual Flash Discharge Mode b,

Press the K/i button.

The built-in flash pops up and begins charging. The b mode is used regardless of the flash mode settings. When the flash is fully charged, b appears in the viewfinder. (p.30)

Press the shutter release button fully.

The flash discharges and the picture is taken.

Push the built-in flash down to retract.

When the mode dial is set to a (Flash Off), the built-in flash will not pop up even if the K/i button is pressed.

Using red-eye reduction flash

“Red-eye” is the phenomenon where eyes look reddish in photographs taken in dark environments with a flash. This is caused by the reflection of the electronic flash in the retina of the eye. Red-eye occurs because pupils are dilated in dark environments. This phenomenon cannot be averted but the following measures can be used to combat it.

• Brighten the surroundings when shooting.

• Set to wide angle and move closer to the subject if a zoom lens is in use.

• Use a flash that supports red-eye reduction.

• Position the flash as far away from the camera as possible when using an external flash.

The red-eye reduction function on this camera reduces red-eye by discharging the flash twice. With the red-eye reduction function, the pre-flash is discharged just before the shutter is released. This reduces pupil dilation. The main flash is then discharged while the pupils are smaller, reducing the red-eye effect. To use the red-eye reduction function in Picture mode or H (Scene) mode, select D or F. Set to F or H in other modes.

Basic Operations

Daylight-Sync Shooting

In daylight conditions, the flash will eliminate shadows when a portrait picture is taken with a person’s face cast in shadow. Use of the flash in this way is called Daylight-Sync Shooting. The b (Manual Flash Discharge) mode is used when shooting with Daylight-Sync Shooting.

Taking pictures

1 Pop up the built-in flash manually and confirm that the flash

Basic Operations

mode is set to E. (p.70)

2 Confirm that the flash is fully charged. 3 Take a picture.

Without Daylight-Sync With Daylight-Sync

The picture may be overexposed if the background is too bright.

Compensating Flash Output

You can change the flash output in a range of –2.0 to +1.0. The following flash compensation values can be set according to the step interval set in [1. EV Steps] (p.108) of the [A Custom Setting 1] menu.

Step Interval Flash Compensation Value

1/3 EV

1/2 EV

–2.0, –1.7, –1.3, –1.0, –0.7, –0.3, 0.0, +0.3, +0.7, +1.0

–2.0, –1.5, –1.0, –0.5, 0.0, +0.5, +1.0

Set the flash compensation value by turning the e-dial in the [Flash Mode] screen.

Flash Mode

Manual Flash Discharge

Pressing the | (Green) button returns the flash exposure compensation to the default value (0.0). (Available only when [Green Button] is assigned to the | (Green) button in [Green Button] of the [A Rec. Mode 4] menu) (p.179).)

• If the maximum flash output is exceeded when correcting to the plus (+) side, the compensation will not be effective.

• Compensating to the minus (–) side may not affect the image if the subject is too close, the aperture value is small or sensitivity is high.

• The flash compensation is also effective for external flash units which support P-TTL auto flash mode.

Cancel

+0.3

Allowing Shooting while Charging the Flash

Basic Operations

You can set the camera to enable shooting while the flash is being charged. Set [16. Release While Charging] to [On] in the [A Custom Setting 3] menu (p.82). By default, pictures cannot be taken while the built-in flash is charging.

16.

Release While Charging

Off On

Enables shutter release while the built-in flash is charging

Cancel

Playing Back Pictures

Playing Back Images

You can play back captured images with the camera.

Use the provided “PENTAX Digital Camera Utility 4” software to play back pictures using a computer. Refer to “Using the Provided Software” (p.268) for details on the software.

Basic Operations

Press the Q button.

The camera enters Playback mode and the most recently captured image (image with the highest file number) is displayed on the monitor. (For movies, only the first frame is displayed on the monitor.)

Press the M button during playback to switch the information display such as the image data for the displayed image.

Refer to p.25 for display information details.

Press the four-way controller (45).

4: Displays the previous image. 5: Displays the next image.

Refer to “Playback Functions” (p.199) for details on the playback function.

Deleting a Single Image

100 -0 10 5

You can delete one image at a time.

• Deleted images cannot be restored.

• Protected images cannot be deleted. (p.219)

Press the Q button and use the four-way controller (45) to select an image to delete.

Press the K/i button.

The delete confirmation screen appears.

Use the four-way controller (23) to select [Delete].

Select a file format to delete for images saved in RAW+ format.

Delete JPEG

Delete RAW

Delete RAW+JPEG

Deletes only the JPEG image.

Deletes only the RAW image.

Deletes images in both file formats.

Delete

Cancel

100-0105

Basic Operations

Press the 4 button.

The image is deleted.

When deleting multiple images at once, refer to “Deleting Multiple Images” (p.215).

Memo

4 Shooting Functions

This chapter describes the various basic and advanced shooting functions available with the a.

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

Selecting the Appropriate Capture Mode ..........83

Setting the Exposure ........................................... 88

Focusing ............................................................. 112

Checking the Composition, Exposure and Focus

Before Shooting (Preview) ................................ 124

Using Shake Reduction Function to Prevent

Camera Shake .................................................... 128

Taking Pictures Continuously .......................... 136

Taking Pictures Using Digital Filters ................ 140

Shooting with the Live View .............................. 143

How to Operate the Shooting Functions

You can change capture-related settings using the direct keys, control panel, [A Rec. Mode] menus or [A Custom Setting] menus.

For details on how to operate the menus, refer to “Using the Menus” (p.35).

Direct Keys Setting Items

Press the four-way controller (2345) or 4 button in Capture mode to set the following items.

Shooting Functions

Key Item Function Page

Drive Mode

Flash Mode Sets the method of flash discharge. p.67

White Balance

Sensitivity Sets the ISO sensitivity. p.90

Select AF Point Sets the focusing area. p.117

Selects Continuous shooting, Selftimer, Remote Control or Exposure Bracketing shooting.

Adjusts the color balance to match the type of the light source illuminating the subject.

p.136 p.131 p.134 p.109

p.182

Rec. Mode Menu Setting Items

The following settings can be performed in the [A Rec. Mode 1-4] menus. Press the 3 button in Capture mode to display the [A Rec. Mode 1] menu.

Menu Item Function Page

Custom Image*

File Format* Sets the file format. p.177

JPEG Recorded Pixels*

JPEG Quality* Sets the image quality for JPEG shooting. p.175

D-Range Setting*

Lens Correction*

Cross Processing*

Digital Filter*

HDR Capture*

Multi-exposure Sets the Multi-exposure shooting settings. p.138

AF Mode* Selects the autofocus mode. p.115

AE Metering*

Select AF Point* Selects the part of the viewfinder to focus on. p.117

Sets the image finishing tone such as color and contrast before shooting an image.

Sets the recording size of images for JPEG shooting.

Expands the dynamic range and prevents bright and dark areas from occurring.

Corrects distortions and chromatic aberrations of magnification occurring due to lens properties.

Changes the hues and contrast by performing digital cross processing.

Applies a digital filter effect when taking pictures.

Enables capturing images at high dynamic range.

Selects the part of the viewfinder to use for measuring brightness and determining exposure.

p.194

p.174

p.189 p.190

p.192

p.196

p.140

p.191

p.104

Shooting Functions

Menu Item Function Page

Movie Sets the movie settings. p.148

Live View Sets the Live View display settings. p.144

Status Screen Sets the status screen display color settings. p.248

Instant Review Sets the Instant Review display settings. p.249

Color Space Sets the color space to use. p.187

RAW File Format Sets the file format for RAW shooting. p.178

Green Button

Memory

Shake

Shooting Functions

* Can be set using the control panel.

Reduction*

Input Focal Length

Assigns the function to be called up when the | (Green) button is pressed.

Sets the settings to save when the power is turned off.

Sets the Shake Reduction function. p.129

Sets the focal length when using a lens for which focal length information cannot be obtained.

p.179

p.260

p.130

Custom Setting Menu Setting Items

Set the [A Custom Setting 1-4] menus to fully use the functions of a SLR camera.

Menu Item Function Page

1. EV Steps Sets the adjustment steps for exposure. p.108

2. Sensitivity Steps

3. Expanded Sensitivity

4. Meter Operating Time

5. AE-L with AF Locked

6. Link AE to AF Point

7. Auto Bracketing Order

8. WB When Using Flash

9. AWB in Tungsten Light

10. AF/AE-L Button

11. AF with Remote Control

12. Remote Control in Bulb

13. Slow Shutter Speed NR

14. High-ISO NR

Sets the adjustment steps for ISO sensitivity.

Expands the lower and upper sensitivity limits.

Sets the exposure metering time. p.106

Sets whether to lock the exposure value when the focus is locked.

Sets whether to link the exposure and AF point in the focusing area during multisegment metering.

Sets the order for Exposure Bracketing shooting.

Sets the white balance setting when using flash.

Sets whether to adjust the tungsten light color tone when the white balance is set to

(Auto White Balance).

Sets the function used when the =/L button is pressed.

Sets whether to use Autofocus when shooting with remote control.

While using the remote control with the shutter speed set to h, sets whether to start exposure with a press and stop it with another press of the release button on the remote control unit, or to keep the shutter open as long as the release button on the remote control unit is kept pressed.

Sets whether to use Noise Reduction in slow speed shooting.

Sets whether to use Noise Reduction when shooting with a high ISO sensitivity. Select from three levels.

p.91

p.120

p.106

p.110

p.183

–

p.108 p.114

p.135

p.104

p.92

Shooting Functions

Menu Item Function Page

15. High-ISO NR Start Level

16. Release While Charging

17. Flash in Wireless Mode

18. Saving Rotation Info

19. Auto Image Rotation

20. Power lamp Changes the brightness of the power lamp. p.254

Shooting Functions

21. Catch-in Focus

22. Using Aperture Ring

Reset Custom Functions

High-ISO NR is activated when shooting with a sensitivity higher than the set sensitivity.

Sets whether to release shutter while the built-in flash is charging.

Sets the built-in flash discharge method in the wireless mode.

Sets whether to save rotation information when shooting.

Sets whether to perform auto image rotation during playback.

When set to [On], if [AF Mode] is set to f or l and a manual focus lens is attached, catch-in focus shooting is enabled and the shutter is released automatically when the subject comes into focus.

Sets whether to enable shutter release when the lens aperture ring is set to the position other than s.

Resets all the settings in the [A Custom Setting 1-4] menus to the defaults.

p.92

p.73

p.166

p.213

p.123

p.284

p.281

Selecting the Appropriate Capture Mode

You can switch the capture modes by setting the icons on the mode dial to the dial indicator.

Dial indicator

The a features various shooting modes, enabling you to take pictures with settings suited for your photographic vision. In this manual, the capture modes are referred to as follows.

Capture Mode Mode Page

I (Auto Picture)/ = (Portrait)/ s (Landscape)/ q (Macro)/ \ (Moving Object)/ . (Night Scene

Picture mode

H (Scene) mode

Exposure mode

Movie mode C (Movie) p.148

Portrait)/ a (Flash Off) (When shooting with Live View, d (Blue Sky) and K (Sunset) can also be selected.)

A (Night Scene)/ Q (Surf & Snow)/ K (Food)/

K (Sunset)/ n (Stage Lighting)/ R (Kids)/ Y (Pet)/ U (Candlelight)/ E (Museum)/ l (Night Snap)

e (Program)/ K (Sensitivity Priority)/ b (Shutter Priority)/ c (Aperture Priority)/ a (Manual)

p.84

p.85

p.87

Shooting Functions

Picture Mode

Set the mode dial to =, s, q, \, . or a if you cannot capture the desired image in I (Auto Picture) mode. The characteristics of each mode are as follows.

Mode Characteristics

The optimal capture mode is automatically selected

I Auto Picture

Shooting Functions

Portrait

Landscape

Macro

Moving Object

Night Scene Portrait

Flash Off

from the U (Standard), = (Portrait), s (Landscape), q (Macro), \ (Moving Object) and . (Night Scene Portrait) modes. When shooting with Live View, d (Blue Sky) and K (Sunset) can also be selected.

Optimal for capturing portraits. Reproduces a healthy and bright skin tone.

Deepens the focus range, emphasizes contour and saturation of trees and the sky, and produces a vibrant image.

Lets you take vibrant pictures of flowers and other small subjects at short distances.

Lets you take sharp pictures of a quickly moving subject, such as at sporting events. The drive mode is fixed to g (Continuous Shooting (Hi)).

Lets you capture people against a night view or at dusk.

The flash is deactivated. Other settings are the same as U (Standard) in I.

In ., even though the flash is used, the camera will use slow shutter speeds so the background areas beyond the flash’s reach will also appear correctly exposed in the picture (1 Slow-speed Sync (p.156)). To prevent camera shake, either use the Shake Reduction function or mount the camera on a tripod.

When \ is automatically selected in I, pictures are taken in the drive mode set beforehand.

H Mode

By setting the mode dial to H (Scene), you can choose from the following 10 shooting scenes.

Mode Characteristics

A Night Scene

Q Surf & Snow

K Food

K Sunset For capturing sunrise or sunset in beautiful colors.

n Stage Lighting For capturing moving subjects in poorly lit place.

R Kids

Y Pet

U Candlelight For capturing scenes in candlelight.

E Museum

l Night Snap For taking snapshots in poorly lit place.

The flash is deactivated in A, K, n, U, and E. To prevent camera shake, either use the Shake Reduction function or mount the camera on a tripod.

Used for night scenes. Use a tripod, etc. to prevent shaking.

For capturing images of dazzling backgrounds, such as snowy mountains.

For capturing images of food. Saturation will be rather high to make it look appetizing.

For capturing moving kids. Reproduces healthy and bright skin tone. The drive mode is fixed to g (Continuous Shooting (Hi)).

For capturing moving pets. The drive mode is fixed to g (Continuous Shooting (Hi)).

For capturing images in places where a flash is prohibited.

Shooting Functions

HDR OFF

OFF

Nig ht S cene

Selecting a Shooting Scene

Set the mode dial to H.

The scene mode status screen appears.

Press the M button.

The icon for the currently selected shooting scene appears in the control panel.

Shooting Functions

Use the four-way controller (2345) to select [Scene Mode] and press the 4 button.

The scene mode selection screen appears.

Use the four-way controller (2345) or e-dial to choose a scene mode.

15 4.0F

ISO

1600

AUTO

12 M

JPEG

Scene Mode Night Scene

OFF

AF.A

JPEG

12 M

10/10/’09

SCN

Night Scene

1122+3-3

OFF

10:30AM

AWB

AF.A

HDR

OFF

ISO

[

123

[37]

]

Used for night scenes. Use a tripod, etc. to prevent shaking

Cancel

Press the 4 button.

The camera returns to the control panel and is ready to take a picture.

When the 3 button is pressed while the mode dial is set to H (Scene), the [H Scene] menu appears. The scene mode can also be selected from the [H Scene] menu.

Exposure Mode

Night Scene

Used for night scenes. Use a tripod, etc. to prevent shaking

Exit

Use the exposure modes to change the sensitivity, shutter speed and aperture and take pictures according to your own photographic vision.

Mode Characteristics

Automatically sets the shutter speed and aperture

e Program

value to obtain the proper exposure according to Program line when taking pictures.

Sensitivity Priority

Automatically sets the shutter speed and aperture value to obtain the proper exposure according to the set sensitivity.

Lets you set the desired shutter speed to freeze or

Shutter Priority

emphasize subject movement. Take pictures of fast moving subjects that look still or subjects that give a sense of movement.

Aperture

Priority

a Manual

Lets you set the desired aperture value for controlling the depth of field. Use it to obtain a blurred or sharp background.

Lets you set the shutter speed and aperture value to capture the picture with creative intent.

Page

p.93

Shooting Functions

Setting the Exposure

Effect of Aperture and Shutter Speed

Correct exposure of the subject is determined by the combination of shutter speed and aperture setting. There are many correct combinations of shutter speed and aperture value for a particular subject. Different combinations produce different effects.

Effect of Shutter Speed

By changing the shutter speed, you can manipulate how time is expressed

Shooting Functions

in the pictures you create. Unlike with your own naked eyes, in a picture you can capture a fraction of a moment or a whole period of time, creating different effects. Use the b (Shutter Priority) mode.

Using slower shutter speed

If the subject is moving, the image will be blurred because the shutter is open longer. It is possible to enhance the effect of motion (rivers, waterfalls, waves, etc.) by intentionally using a slower shutter speed.

Using faster shutter speed

Choosing a faster shutter speed will allow freezing the action of a moving subject. A faster shutter speed also helps to prevent camera shake.

Effect of Aperture

By changing the aperture, you can control the depth of the area that appears in focus in the picture (the depth of field). By either narrowing the focus to emphasize a single point or giving depth to your picture instead you can completely change the feel of the picture you create. Use the c (Aperture Priority) mode.

Opening the aperture (reduce the aperture value)

Objects closer and farther than the focused subject will be more out of focus. For instance, if you take a picture of a flower against a landscape with the aperture open, the landscape in front and behind the flower will be blurred, emphasizing only the flower.

Closing the aperture (increase the aperture value)

The range in focus expands forward and backward. For instance, if you take a picture of a flower against a landscape with the aperture narrowed, the landscape in front and behind the flower will be in focus.

Aperture and Depth of Field

The following table summarizes how the aperture affects the depth of field. The depth of field may also change depending on the lens used and the distance to the subject.

Aperture

Depth of field Shallow Deep

Area of focus Narrow Wide

Lens focal length

Distance to the subject Near Far

• The depth of field for the a differs depending on the lens but

compared to a 35 mm camera, the value is roughly one aperture setting lower (the focused range becomes narrower).

• The wider the wide-angle lens, and the farther away the subject, the deeper the depth of field is (some zoom lenses do not have a scale for depth of field because of their designs).

Open Close

(Smaller value) (Larger value)

Longer Shorter

(Telephoto) (Wide-angle)

Shooting Functions

Setting the Sensitivity

You can set the sensitivity to suit the brightness of the surroundings. The sensitivity can be set to [AUTO] or within a sensitivity range equivalent to ISO 200 to 6400. The default setting is [AUTO].

Press the four-way controller (5) in Capture mode.

The [Sensitivity] screen appears.

Use the four-way controller (23) to select [AUTO Setting] or [Fixed

Shooting Functions

Value].

Use the four-way controller (45) to change the ISO sensitivity.

For ISO AUTO, change the maximum sensitivity.

Press the 4 button.

The camera is ready to take a picture.

Sensitivity AUTO Setting

ISO

200

AUTO

ISO

Cancel

1600

200

• When n (Stage Lighting)/l (Night Snap) in H (Scene) mode or C

(Movie) mode is selected, the sensitivity is fixed to AUTO and cannot be changed.

• When the mode dial is set to K (Sensitivity Priority) or a (Manual), [AUTO

Setting] is not displayed.

• The sensitivity range can be expanded to a range of ISO 100 to 12800 when

[3. Expanded Sensitivity] in the [A Custom Setting 1] menu (p.81) is set to [On]. In this case, the following restrictions apply.

- When the sensitivity is set to ISO 100, bright areas are more likely to occur.

- When [Highlight Correction] is set to [On] (p.189), the minimum sensitivity is ISO 200.

• Captured images may show more noise if a higher sensitivity is set. You can

reduce image noise by setting [14. High-ISO NR] in the [A Custom Setting 2] menu. (p.92)

• You can set whether to lock the sensitivity adjustment to increments of 1 EV or to coordinate it with the EV steps (p.108) in [2. Sensitivity Steps] of the [A Custom Setting 1] menu (p.81).

Expanding the Dynamic Range

Dynamic range is the ratio that indicates the light level expressed by the CMOS sensor pixels from bright areas to dark areas. The larger it is, the better the whole range from dark to bright areas will appear in the picture. By expanding the dynamic range, you can expand the light level expressed by the CMOS sensor pixels, making it more difficult for bright area to occur in the image. To expand the dynamic range, make the settings in [D-Range Setting] of the [A Rec. Mode 1] menu. (p.189)

Shooting Functions

Noise Reduction

When shooting with a digital camera, image noise (image roughness or unevenness) becomes noticeable in the following situations.

- Shooting with a long exposure

- Shooting with a high sensitivity setting

- When the temperature of the CMOS sensor is high You can reduce image noise by using Noise Reduction. However, images shot with Noise Reduction will take longer to save.

Slow Shutter Speed NR

Reduces noise during long exposures. Select [On] or [Off] in [13. Slow Shutter Speed NR] of the [A Custom Setting 2] menu (p.81).

Shooting Functions

1On

2Off

* When the exposure time is longer than 30 seconds, the maximum sensitivity is

High-ISO NR

Reduces noise at high sensitivity (ISO) settings. Select [Medium], [Low], [High] or [Off] in [14. High-ISO NR] of the [A Custom Setting 2] menu (p.81). You can change the sensitivity from when Noise Reduction is activated in [15. High-ISO NR Start Level] of the [A Custom Setting 3] menu (p.82).

The camera determines the conditions such as the shutter speed, sensitivity, and internal temperature, and automatically reduces noise as necessary.

Reduces noise only when the shutter remains open for more than 30 seconds.

set to ISO 3200 and Noise Reduction is automatically activated.

1 ISO 800

2 ISO 400

3 ISO 1600

4 ISO 3200

* When the sensitivity is set to ISO 6400 or higher, Noise Reduction is

automatically activated.

Noise Reduction is activated when the sensitivity is higher than ISO 800. (default setting)

Noise Reduction is activated when the sensitivity is higher than ISO 400.

Noise Reduction is activated when the sensitivity is higher than ISO 1600.

Noise Reduction is activated when the sensitivity is higher than ISO 3200.

Changing the Exposure Mode

This camera features the following five exposure modes. Use the mode dial to change the exposure mode. (p.83) The settings available for each exposure mode are as follows.

Exposure

Mode

Program

Sensitivity Priority

Shutter Priority

Aperture Priority

Manual

* In [Green Button] of the [A Rec. Mode 4] menu, you can make the setting so that the

shutter speed and/or aperture value can be changed by turning the e-dial. (p.95)

Description

Automatically sets the shutter speed and aperture value to obtain the proper exposure according to Program line when taking pictures.

Automatically sets the shutter speed and aperture value to obtain the proper exposure according to the set sensitivity.

Lets you set the desired shutter speed for expressing moving subjects.

Lets you set the aperture value for controlling the depth of field.

Lets you set the shutter speed and aperture value to capture the picture with creative intent.

EV Com-

pensation

Change

Shutter

Speed

z #* #* z p.94

z ××

zz × z p.97

z × zzp.98

× zz

Change

Aperture

Value

Change

Sensi-

tivity

Other

than

AUTO

Other

than

AUTO

Page

p.96

p.100

Shooting Functions

Using a Lens with an Aperture Ring

When using a lens with an aperture ring, set the aperture to the s (AUTO) position while holding down the autolock button on the lens.

Using the e (Program) Mode

Shooting Functions

Automatically sets the shutter speed and aperture value to obtain the proper exposure according to Program line when taking pictures. You can also use the e-dial to change the shutter speed and aperture value while maintaining the proper exposure (p.95).

Set the mode dial to e.

Turn the e-dial while pressing the mc button to adjust the exposure.

The EV compensation value is displayed in the status screen and viewfinder.

125 5.6F

ISO

200

AUTO

AF.A

AWB

1122+3-3

ISO

12 M

JPEG

EV compensation value

• EV compensation value can be set in increments of 1/3 EV or 1/2 EV. Set the

exposure steps in [1. EV Steps] of the [A Custom Setting 1] menu. (p.108)

• The proper exposure may not be obtained with the selected shutter speed and aperture value when the sensitivity is not set to [AUTO] (p.90).

e-dial in Program

You can set the action for the e-dial when turned in the [

mode. Set in [Green Button] of

Rec. Mode 4] menu. (This operation is available only when [Green Button] is assigned to the | (Green) button.) (p.179) If the | (Green) button is pressed after turning the e-dial, the camera returns to mode.

P SHIFT

Automatically adjusts the shutter speed and aperture value to obtain the proper exposure (Program shift). (default setting)

b Sets the shutter speed. c Sets the aperture value.

Disables the e-dial operation when Program Automatic

OFF

Exposure is set.

Green Button

Action in M Mode e-dial in Program

Shifts combination of the aperture and shutter speed to obtain proper exposure

Cancel

[37]

P SHIFT Tv Av OFF

Shooting Functions

Using the K (Sensitivity Priority) Mode

You can set the sensitivity to suit the brightness of the subject. The shutter speed and aperture value are automatically set according to the selected sensitivity to obtain the proper exposure.

Set the mode dial to K.

Shooting Functions

Turn the e-dial to adjust the sensitivity.

The set values are displayed in the status screen and viewfinder.

• You can set the sensitivity to values equivalent to ISO 200 to 6400. [AUTO] is not available.

• Turn the e-dial while pressing the mc button to change the EV compensation value. (p.107)

• The sensitivity can be set in increments of 1/3 EV or 1/2 EV. Set the exposure steps in [1. EV Steps] of the [A Custom Setting 1] menu. (p.108)

30 4.5F

ISO

200

12 M

JPEG

AF.A

AWB

1122+3-3

[37]

ISO

Using the b (Shutter Priority) Mode

Lets you set the desired shutter speed for expressing moving subjects. When taking pictures of a fast moving subject, you can increase the shutter speed to make the subject look still or decrease the shutter speed to have the subject show movement. The aperture value is automatically set to give the proper exposure depending on the shutter speed.

1Effect of Aperture and Shutter Speed (p.88)

Set the mode dial to b.

Turn the e-dial to adjust the shutter speed.

The shutter speed can be set within the range of 1/6000 to 30 seconds.

Shooting Functions

The set values are displayed in the status screen and viewfinder.

125 5.6F

ISO

400

AUTO

12 M

JPEG

AF.A

AWB

1122+3-3

ISO

[37]

• Turn the e-dial while pressing the mc button to change the EV compensation value. (p.107)

• The shutter speed can be set in increments of 1/3 EV or 1/2 EV. Set the exposure steps in [1. EV Steps] of the [A Custom Setting 1] menu. (p.108)

• The proper exposure may not be obtained with the selected shutter speed when the sensitivity is not set to [AUTO] (

p.90

Exposure Warning

If the subject is too bright or too dark, the aperture value will blink in the status screen and viewfinder. If the subject is too bright, choose a faster shutter speed. If it is too dark, choose a slower shutter speed. When the

aperture value indication stops blinking, you can take a picture with

Shooting Functions

proper exposure. Use a commercially available ND (Neutral Density) Filter (p.305) if the subject is too bright. Use a flash if it is too dark.

Using the c (Aperture Priority) Mode

Set the aperture value for controlling the depth of field. The depth of field is deeper and the front and back of the focused object is clear when the aperture is set to a large value. The depth of field is shallower and the front and back of the focused object is blurred when the aperture is set to a small value. The shutter speed is automatically set to the proper exposure depending on the aperture value.

1Effect of Aperture and Shutter Speed (p.88)

Set the mode dial to c.

Pentax K Series K-x User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

For Using Your Camera Safely

Care to be Taken During Handling

Contents

Composition of the Operating Manual

Checking the Contents of the Package

Names and Functions of Working Parts

Capture Mode

Playback Mode

Display Indicators

Monitor

Viewfinder

How to Change Function Settings

Using the Direct Keys

Using the Control Panel

Using the Menus

2 Getting Started

Attaching the Strap

Inserting the Batteries

Battery Level Indicator

Approximate Image Storage Capacity and Playback Time (New Batteries)

Using the AC Adapter (Optional)

Inserting/Removing the SD Memory Card

Recorded Pixels and Quality Level

Attaching the Lens

Adjusting the Viewfinder Diopter

Turning the Camera On and Off

Initial Settings

Setting the Display Language

Setting the Date and Time

3 Basic Operations

Basic Shooting Operation

Holding the Camera

Letting the Camera Choose the Optimal Settings

Using a Zoom Lens

Using the Built-in Flash

Setting the Flash Mode

Compensating Flash Output

Allowing Shooting while Charging the Flash

Playing Back Pictures

Playing Back Images

Deleting a Single Image

4 Shooting Functions

How to Operate the Shooting Functions

Direct Keys Setting Items

Rec. Mode Menu Setting Items

Custom Setting Menu Setting Items

Selecting the Appropriate Capture Mode

Picture Mode

Exposure Mode

Setting the Exposure

Effect of Aperture and Shutter Speed

Setting the Sensitivity

Changing the Exposure Mode