Pentax MZ7 User Manual

Operation direction

Automatic operation

Attention

Lamp blinking

Correct

Incorrect

Icon indicators used in this manual

Congratulations on your purchase of this camera
and welcome to the exciting world of Pentax auto­focus photography! This compact and light weight
camera is an autofocus SLR camera that offers
higher levels of sophistication and performance.
Incorporating a broad range of advanced tech­nologies and highly accurate automation, this
camera will perform superbly for the most exacting
photographer.

Read this instruction manual carefully to get a full
explanation of operations before use.
Illustrations in this operating manual are the data
function.

Lenses and accessories produced by other
manufacturers are not made to our precise
specifications and therefore may cause difficul­ties with, or actual damage to, your Pentax
camera. We do not assume any responsibility or
liability for difficulties resulting from the use of
lenses and accessories made by other manu­facturers.

FOR SAFE USE OF YOUR CAMERA

1

Although we have carefully designed this camera for safe operation, please be sure to follow pre­cautions given on this page.

WARNING This mark indicates precautions that, if not followed, could result in serious

injury to the operator.

CAUTION This mark indicates precautions that, if not followed, could result in minor

or medium injury to the operator or damage to the equipment.

WARNING

• The electronic circuits inside the camera contain
high voltage working parts. Never attempt to dis­assemble the camera yourself.

• Never touch internal parts of the camera if they
become exposed from dropping the camera or
for some other reason, as there is danger of an
electric shock.

• Wrapping the strap around your neck is danger­ous. Make sure that small children do not get the
strap caught around their neck.

• Do not look directly at the sun through the cam­era, as viewing the sun for may damage your
eyes, and/or parts of the camera (e.g: shutter
blades, etc.)

• Be sure to store batteries out of the reach of chil­dren. Seek medical assistance immediately if
accidentally swallowed.

CAUTION

• Do not use the flash near anyone’s eyes, as it
may hurt them. Be particularly careful with the
flash around infants.

• Never try to disassemble, short or recharge the
battery.Also, do not dispose of the battery in fire,
as it may explode.

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

PRECAUTIONS FOR YOUR CAMERA

2

Your Pentax camera is a high-precision mecha­nism. Handle it with great care.

Precautions when taking pictures

• Do not use the camera where it may come in contact
with rain, water, or any other liquid, because the
camera is not weather, water, or liquid resistant.
Should the camera get wet from rain, splashing
water, or any other liquid wipe it off immediately with
a dry soft cloth.

• Do not drop the camera or allow it to hit solid objects.
If the camera suffers a shock or impact, take it to a
Pentax service center for inspection.

• Be careful not to subject the camera to strong vibra­tions, shock or pressure. Use a cushion to protect
the camera when carrying it in a motorcycle, car,
boat, etc.

• Condensation on the interior or exterior of the cam­era may be extremely harmful to the camera mech­anism as it may cause rust. Furthermore, if the cam­era is taken from warm temperature to a subfreezing
one or vice versa, the formation of icelets may cause
damage. In such a case, put the camera into a case
or plastic bag so that any changes in temperature
difference is minimized. Do not remove it from the
bag until temperature has stabilized.

• Regular size color prints may cut off what appears
on the extreme edges of the film frame. Compose
your picture with a margin of safety at the edges.

Precautions for storage

• Avoid leaving the camera for extended periods in
places where the humidity and temperature are very
high, such as in a car.

• Do not store the camera in a closet with moth balls
or in an area where chemicals are handled. Store it
in a place with good dry air circulation to prevent the
growth of fungus.

Precautions for proper care

• Never touch the shutter curtain or mirror with your
finger or any other object.

• Use a blower and lens brush to remove dust accu­mulated on the lens or viewfinder.

• Never use solvents such as paint thinner, alcohol or
benzene to clean the camera.

• Electrical problems may often be caused by water,
dirt or dust at points of electrical contact. Also check
for battery leakage, traces of dirt or grease, or corro­sion due to salinity or gas. If you cannot correct the
problems, have your camera inspected at a Pentax
service center. Repairs of this nature are not covered
under the terms of the warranty and charges may be
assessed.

PRECAUTION FOR BATTERY USEGE

3

Other precautions

• The temperature range at which this camera func­tions properly is 50˚c to -10˚c (122˚F to 14˚F).

• A camera which has been submerged in water
usually cannot be repaired. If such an accident
should occur, it is advisable to contact a Pentax
Service Center immediately.

• To maintain optimum performance, it is recom­mended that the camera be inspected every one or
two years. If the camera has not been used for an
extended period, or is being prepared for an impor­tant photographic session, it is recommended that
you have the camera inspected or test shoot with it.

• Repairs deemed necessary due to usage of this
product in an industrial or commercial application
may not be covered under the terms of the Pentax
warranty.

• The PENTAX warranty provides only for the repair
of defects in materials or workmanship. Damage of
any kind cannot be repaired at no charge under the
terms of the warranty. If the difficulty is caused as
a direct result of the product being used in condi­tions as outlined in the “Precautions for Your
Camera” section or any other operation contrary to
the instructions outlined in this manual, charges
will be assessed and a repair quotation will be pro­vided.

• Use two 3V lithium batteries (CR2 type).

• Misuse of the battery can cause hazards such as
leakage, overheating, explosion, etc. The battery
should be inserted with the “+” and “-” sides facing
correctly.

• Battery performance may be temporarily hindered
in low temperatures, but will recover in normal tem­peratures.

• Keep a spare battery on hand for replacement con­venience when shooting outdoors or while travel­ing.

• If the built-in flash is used continuously, the battery
may become warm, but it does not mean that the
battery is faulty; it is one of the battery’s character­istics.

• Replace the batteries at the same time. Do not mix
battery brands, type or an old battery with a new
one. It may cause explosion or overheating.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

4

Safe use of your camera .....................................1

Precautions for your camera................................2

Precautions for battery usage..............................3

Table of contents..................................................4

Names of working parts.......................................6

LCD panel indication ...........................................8

Viewfinder indication............................................9

• Multi (6) - segment metering .........................9

Camera functions available with various lenses10

I. BASIC OPERATION (PREPARATION) ....11-23

Attaching the camera strap................................11

Loading the batteries .........................................12

• When the battery is exhausted....................13

Attaching the lens ..............................................14

Turning on the power .........................................16

Operating the shutter release button.................16

Using the data back...........................................17

Film loading .......................................................18

Unloading film....................................................21

• Rewinding a film in mid-roll .........................22

II BASIC OPERATION (SHOOTING)...........23-36

Using the Auto Picture Mode.............................24

Using the Smart Flash.......................................25

• Auto-popup flash function............................25

• Flash disable function .................................26

Using zoom lenses ............................................27

Setting the Single-Frame Drive Mode ...............28

Selecting the Autofocus Mode...........................28

Holding the Camera...........................................29

Taking a picture .................................................30

Selecting the various flash Modes.....................32

• AF spotbeam projector................................33

• About Red-eye Reduction Flash Function ..33

Activate the built-in flash in manual...................34

Flash recommended warning ............................36

5

III ADVANCED OPERATION .......................37-81

Selecting a Drive Mode .....................................37

• Consecutive Frame Mode ...........................38

• Self-Timer Mode..........................................38

Remote control shooting (Optional)...................40

• 3-second-delay release mode.....................40

• Instant release mode...................................42

Multiple-Exposure Mode....................................43

Taking a panorama format picture .....................44

Using the Picture Mode .....................................46

• Green Operation Mode ...............................47

• Portrait Program Mode................................48

• Landscape Program Mode..........................49

• Close-up Program Mode.............................50

• Action Program Mode .................................51

• Night-scene Program Mode ........................52

Selecting an Exposure Mode.............................53

• Using the Aperture-Priority AE Mode..........54

• Using the Shutter-Priority AE Mode............56

• Using the Metered Manual Mode................58

• Bulb Exposure Mode...................................60

About Exposure Compensation.........................61

Turning off the audible PCV signal ....................62

Memory lock function.........................................63

Manual focusing.................................................64

• Using the snap-in focus function.................65

• Hard-To-Autofocus Subjects........................66

Advanced operation for the Built-in Retractable

Flash (RTF)........................................................67

• Compatibility of F and FA lenses with the built-

in flash.........................................................69

Setting the film speed (ISO) manually...............70

Adjusting the Data Back ....................................71

Adjusting the data on the Data Back.................72

Installing the battery in the Data Back...............73

Using a Pentax Dedicated External Flash.........74

• Contrast-Control-Sync Flash Photography..75

• Overview of flash function...........................76

Daylight-sync shooting.......................................77

Slow-shutter-sync shooting................................78

ACCESSORIES (OPTIONAL) ...........................79

Camera case scale............................................80

Depth of field scale............................................81

IV. OTHERS..................................................82-88

Troubleshooting..................................................82

Specifications.....................................................84

Program lines.....................................................86

Warranty policy..................................................88

NAMES OF WORKING PARTS I

6

q Select switch
w Shutter release button
e Drive mode button (p.37, 38, 40, 42, 43)
r Flash mode button (p.24)
t LCD panel
y Main switch (p.16)
u Hot shoe
i Built-in flash
o Exposure mode indicator
!0 Mode dial
!1 Remote control receiver (p.38, 40, 42)
!2 Self-timer lamp (p.38, 40, 42)
!3 Strap lug (p.11)
!4 Release socket
!5 Back cover release lever (p.18)
!6 Exposure compensation button (p.62)
!7 Mid-roll rewind button (p.22)
!8 Focus mode switch (p.28, 65)
!9 Mirror
@0 AF coupler
@1 Lens information contacts
@2 Lens lock button (p.14)
@3 Lens mount index

NAMES OF WORKING PARTS II

7

@4 Shutter curtains
@5 Flash mode button (p.32)
@6 Eyecup FK (p.39)
@7 Viewfinder eyepiece
@8 Diopter adjustment lever

(p.23)

@9 Panorama lever (p.44)
#0 Memory lock button (p.63)
#1 Film information window
#2 Pressure plate
#3 Back cover (p.18)
#4 Film leader end mark (p.19)
#5 Battery cover chamber screw

(p.12)

#6 Battery chamber cover (p.12)
#7 Sprocket (p.19)
#8 Tripod socket
#9 DX-information (p.19)

LCD PANEL INDICATION

8

: Flash information (p.25, 36)
: Red-eye reduction flash indication (p.32)
: Automatic flash information (p.25)
: Manual-set film speed (p.70)
: Shutter speed
: Battery exhaustion warning (p.13)
: Remote control release with a 3-sec.

delay (p.40)
: Audible PCV signal (p.62)
: Consecutive shooting (p.38)
: Remote control release (p.40,42)
: Self-timer (p.38)
: Multiple-exposure shooting (p.43)
: Aperture value

: Exposure compensation (p.61)
: Film status information (p.20, 22)
: Exposure counter (p.20) and exposure

compensation value (p.61)

LCD (Liquid-Crystal Display)

When the LCD is exposed to high temperatures
over approximately 60°C, it may blacken, but when
the temperature normalizes, it should return to
normal.

All indications will not actually appear simultane­ously as shown.

• Under the dim light condition, the LCD panel will
be illuminated automatically.

VIEWFINDER INDICATION

9

[]

: 3-point AF frame (p.30)
: Shutter speed
: Aperture value
: Green Operation Mode (p.47)
: Portrait Operation Mode (p.48)
: Landscape Program Mode (p.49)
: Close-up Program Mode (p.50)
: Action Program Mode (p.51)
: Night-scene Program Mode (p.52)
: Flash status information (p.32,36)
: In-Focus indicator (p.65)
: Exposure compensation (p.61)

: Bar graph (p.58, 61)

MULTI (6)-SEGMENT METERING

This camera incorporates six-segment TTL meter­ing system. Light values are measured in six seg­ments within the image field, enabling an optional
exposure to be made under a variety of lighting
conditions. With multi(6)-segment metering, the
camera records the brightness in six zones within
the image field and will properly expose the sub­ject. The multi (6)-segment metering system also
calculates exposure values for a scene to auto­matically compensate for high-contrast and other
difficult lighting conditions. Even a beginner can
achieve results with ease.

• When the format is switched to panorama, the
viewfinder switches to the horizontal panorama
format frame. For details on panorama format
picture taking, see page 44.

CAMERA FUNCTIONS AVAILABLE WITH VARIOUS LENSES

10

FA lens

[K

AF2]

Function Lens

[Mount type]

F lens

[K

AF]

A lens

[K

A]

M lens

[K]

S lens

[Screw)

O

­O
O*3
O
O*4

x
x

x
O*4
O*4
O
O*5
O
O
O
O
O
O

Autofocus (Lens only)

(Lens with AF Adapter 1.7X)
3-point autofocus
Manual focus (with FI)

(with Matte field)
Power zoom
Image size tracking
Zoom clip
Auto zoom effect
Picture Mode
Auto Picture Mode
Aperture-Priority AE
Shutter-Priority AE
Manual Exposure
Auto-popup built-in flash mode *6
Programmed TTL Auto Flash
TTL Auto Flash
Multi(6)-segment metering
Approx. f-stop indication

O

­O
O*3
O

x
x
x

x
O*4
O*4
O
O*5
O
O
O
O
O
O

x

O*1

x
O*3
O

x

x

x

x
O

x*5
O
O
O
O
O
O
O*7

x

x

O*1

x
O*3
O

x

x

x

x

x

x
O
O
O

x

x
O

x*8

x

x
x
x
x

O

x
x
x
x
x

x
O
O
O

x

x
O

x*8

x

Notes:

*1. Lenses with a maximum aperture of f/2.8 or larger. (See AF Adapter operating manual.)
*2. Manual focusing using the focus indicator (FI) ( ) in the viewfinder. *3. Lenses with a maximum aperture of f/5.6 or larger.
*4. K

AF2

mount lens only.
*5. Exception of Pentax-F or FA Soft 85mm/f2.8. *6. Green Operation Mode only
*7. When the 50mm f/1.2 lens is in use with the lens aperture ring set at a position other than the A position, the center-weighted

metering mode will be set. As the exposure will come out 1 stop overexposured, adjust the exposure deliberately 1 stop under.

*8. The center-weighted metering

•K

A

F2

and KAFmount lenses are designed to work with the Autofocus SLR camera.

I. BASIC OPERATION

(PREPARATION)

ATTACHING THE CAMERA STRAP

11

Fit the strap on the camera as illustrated.

• There is a pocket on the strap so you can store

the remote control transmitter, finder cap,
release socket cover, hot shoe cover or any other
small accessory as illustrated.

BASIC OPERATION (PREPARATION)

LOADING THE BATTERIES

1. Open the battery chamber
cover by using a coin, etc.
as shown in the illustration.

3. Turn the battery chamber
cover screw in the direction
of the arrow to lock it
securely.

2. Load two 3V lithium batter­ies (CR2) or equivalent as
shown in the illustration.

12

BASIC OPERATION (PREPARATION)

• When the batteries are replaced, the camera
settings such as the audible PCV signal switch­ing, exposure compensation value, red-eye
reduction flash function, self-timer, remote con­trol and auto-popup flash function of the built-in
flash will be re-set.

• The optional “AA-Battery Pack FG” is also avail­able for this camera instead of using the lithium
batteries.

• Replace two batteries at the same time. Do not
mix battery brands, type or an old battery with a
new one. It may cause explosion or overheating.

LOW BATTERY WARNING

13

Battery Life (using 24-exposure film rolls at
20˚C/68˚F)

* Low Battery Warning

When the batteries are nearly exhausted, the bat­tery symbol [ ] appears on the LCD panel to
warn you. Replace the batteries as soon as possi­ble.

• Even if the low-battery symbol appears, expo­sure will be correct as long as the shutter can be
released. It is recommended to replace the bat­teries as soon as possible.

• When the low battery warning [ ] starts blink­ing, the shutter cannot be released and all indi­cators in the viewfinder disappear.

BASIC OPERATION (PREPARATION)

General existing light photography
Flash photography
(using flash 50% of the times)
Flash photography
(using flash 100% of the times)
Bulb exposure time

about 120 rolls

about 20 rolls

about 12 rolls
about 8 hours

CR2 batteries were used under Pentax testing
conditions. Actual battery life and performance
may vary drastically depending on usage of
Autofocus, and external conditions such as tem­perature and freshness of the battery.

General existing light photography
Flash photography
(using flash 50% of the times)
Flash photography
(using flash 100% of the times)
Bulb exposure time

about 30 rolls

about 15 rolls

about 5 rolls
about 2 hours

Battery Life (using 24-exposure film rolls at
–10˚C/14˚F)

ATTACHING THE LENS

14

1. Remove the body mount cap q and rear
lens cap w as shown in the illustration.

• The body mount cap is designed to protect the

camera against scratches and dust at the facto­ry. For storage, the optional accessory “Body
Mount Cap K” is available.

2. Align the red dots on the camera and lens
mount, attach the lens to the camera body,
and turn it fully to the right until you hear a
click.

• Ensure that the camera’s main switch is in the

[OFF] position before attaching an FA zoom lens
to prevent unexpected operation of the lens.

BASIC OPERATION (PREPARATION)

15

3. To remove the front lens cap, squeeze the
tabs on both sides in the direction of the
arrow.

• We assume no responsibility nor liability for dam-

ages 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 cause damage to the
electrical system. Clean the contacts with a soft,
dry cloth.

* How to remove

To remove the lens, turn it to the left while
depressing the lens-lock-release button.

• To protect the contacts and AF coupler of the
lens against damage after removal, be sure to
set the lens down with the mount side facing
upward.

BASIC OPERATION (PREPARATION)

The shutter release button has two positions.
Depressing it down halfway (first position)
turns on the exposure meter and autofocus
system.
Depressing it fully (second position) releases
the shutter.When taking a picture, depress the
shutter release button gently to prevent cam­era shake.

• To prevent camera shake, depress the shutter
release button gently.

• Before loading a roll of film, slowly depress the
shutter release button to learn where the first
position is.

• The LCD indication stays on for about 10 sec­onds after the button is released from the
halfway position. Depressing the shutter release
button down halfway keeps the LCD indicator on.

TURNING ON THE POWER

OPERATING THE SHUTTER RELEASE BUTTON

16

1. The power is turned ON when the main
switch is set to ON.

2. The power is turned OFF when the main
switch is set to OFF.

• When the power is turned on with the Auto pic-

ture or Picture Mode set, the mode dial lights up
continuously. To cancel this function, set the
mode dial to [ ] and reinstall the battery. To
light up the mode dial again, the same procedure
as cancellation is required.

• When not in use, ensure that the main switch is

set to OFF.

BASIC OPERATION (PREPARATION)

THE DATA BACK (optional)

17

If you have purchased your camera as the Date
version, read this section.

The DATE model records data information on your
photographs clearly on each frame that you
expose.
At each press of the DATE button as shown in the
illustration, the mode on the LCD panel of the
Data Back switches as indicated in the chart.

• [ — — — ] indicates that no data will be imprint­ed.

• If there is a white or yellow object in the corner of
the picture where the data is imprinting, the data
may be difficult to read. When composing your
photograph, try to avoid brightly-colored subject
in that corner.

• The dating unit automatically switches the
imprint mode between the standard and panora­ma according to the format selected.

• To adjust the data, see page 72.

• The data back operates on a 3V lithium battery.
If the data imprinted on the picture or the data
displayed on the LCD panel become weak or
invisible, the battery may need replacing. To
replace the battery see page 73.

BASIC OPERATION (PREPARATION)

• [ M ] on the LCD indicates “Month”.

• Year 2000 will imprint [ 00 ] on pictures.

• As shutter is released, the bar mark [ – ] in the
display blinks for a few seconds that the data has
been imprinted.

FILM LOADING

18

We suggest that you first operate the camera
with no film loaded to become familiar with its
operations.

Automatic film speed setting

This camera is designed to use DX-coded
films with ISO ratings from 25 to 5000.

• When DX-coded film is used, the correct film
speed is automatically set for the camera. If you
use a non-DX coded film, you can set the film
speed manually. See page 70.

• Before loading film for the first time after pur­chase, open the back cover and remove the pro­tective card. DO NOT TOUCH THE SHUTTER

CURTAINS.

1. To open the back cover, slide the back cover
release lever in the direction of the arrow.

2. Place the film cartridge in the film chamber
as shown in the illustration.

• Always load and unload film in the shade or by

using your body to shade the camera.

BASIC OPERATION (PREPARATION)

19

3. As shown in the illustration, pull the film
leader out only far enough to reach the take

-up spool.

THE SHUTTER CURTAINS ARE FINE-PRECI­SION MATERIAL. DO NOT TOUCH THEM WITH
YOUR FINGERS OR ANY OTHER OBJECT
WHILE LOADING FILM.

• If you have pulled out too much film, push it back

into the cartridge to reduce the slack.

• The DX information pins in the film chamber are

used to read film speed. Keep them clean and
free from scratches. To remove smudges, wipe
them gently with a soft, dry cloth.

4. Align the film leader with the film leader end
mark q as shown.

• Make sure that the film leader is positioned

under the film retaine w as shown in the illustra­tion.

• Make sure that the film perforations properly

engage on the sprocket tooth e.

• If the end of the film leader is extremely bent,

straighten it or cut off the bent portion.

BASIC OPERATION (PREPARATION)

20

• If the film is not loaded
properly, [ ] on the LCD
panel blinks, indicating
that the film is not loaded
properly. Open the back
cover and load the film
once again.

5. Close the back cover and set the main
switch to ON.

6. The film automatically advances to the first
frame.

• Check that [ ] and [ ] are displayed on

the LCD panel.

• The film counter indication advances one each

time the shutter is released.

BASIC OPERATION (PREPARATION)

Film loaded with slack No!

Film loaded flat Yes!

UNLOADING FILM

21

1. The film automatically rewinds at the end of
the roll.

• During rewinding, [–––] blinks on the LCD panel,

indicating that the film is being rewound, the
exposure counter counts frame numbers in
reverse.

• Never open the back cover until the whole film

roll is completely rewound.

• When removing the film from the camera, protect

it from exposure to direct sun light.

2. When the film is fully rewound, only [ ]
blinks on the LCD panel.

BASIC OPERATION (PREPARATION)

22

3. Open the back cover and remove the film.

• A roll of 24-exposure film takes about 13 sec­onds to rewind.

• Before opening the back cover, check that [ ] is
blinking.

• The shutter may be released a frame or more
after the specified number of frames have been
used as indicated by the number of frames on
the film cartridge. However, those extra frames
may be lost in processing.When you take impor­tant pictures, rewind the film when the film reach­es the number of frames indicated on the film
cartridge.

* Rewinding a film in mid-roll

If you wish to unload the film before exposing all
the frames, use this function.

Set the main switch to the ON position, and
then depress the mid-roll rewind button by
using the protruding part of the strap clamp.

• Do not depress the button with an object having
a sharp tip.

• Before opening the back cover, check that [ ] is
blinking.

BASIC OPERATION (PREPARATION)

II. BASIC OPERATION

(SHOOTING)

Aim the camera at a bright subject.While look­ing through the viewfinder,move the diopter
adjustment lever to the left or right until the
autofocus flame [ ] appears in the sharpest
focus.

BASIC OPERATION (SHOOTING)

ADJUSTING THE VIEWFINDER DIOPTER

23

USING THE AUTO PICTURE MODE

This Auto Picture Mode allows you to take pictures
by simply depressing the shutter release button. In
this mode, the camera automatically selects one
of 5 picture modes according to the requirement of
the scene.

How to set

1. Set the mode selection ring to the [ AUTO
PICT ] position.

2. Turn the lens aperture ring to the [ A ] posi­tion.

• To move the lens aperture ring to the [ A ] posi-

tion, turn the aperture ring while holding down
the aperture-A lock button on the lens. The lens
aperture ring can be released from the [ A ] posi­tion in the same manner.

3. The selected picture mode is displayed in
the viewfinder.

• The Auto Picture Mode operates only when an

FA or F lens is attached. The Green Operation
Mode operates only with an A-lens attached.

• See page 54 to 60 for any other exposure mode.

• The memory lock function or exposure compen-

sation function cannot use whenthe Auto Picture
Mode is in use.

24

BASIC OPERATION (SHOOTING)

USING SMART FLASH MODE

Auto-popup flash function

1. Depress the flash mode button until [ ]
appears on the LCD panel.

1. low light situation

2. backlit situation

2. The built-in flash automatically pops up
when depressing the shutter release button
halfway down in the following conditions.

The auto-popup flash function operates only
When the Auto Picture Modes or Picture Mode is
set.

• The Built-in flash does not retract automatically.

• The built-in flash does not discharge when not

required even though it has been in the up posi­tion.

• See page 32 for more details.

• ( ) cannot be cancelled with the Auto Picture

Mode set.

25

BASIC OPERATION (SHOOTING)

Flash Disable Mode

Use this mode if you don’t want the built-in flash to
pop-up automatically. The flash will not pop-up
automatically even when it is dark nor lights when
the flash is in the up position.

1. Set the mode dial to [ ].

2. [ ] appears on the LCD panel.

• From among 5 modes, the camera selects the

best one depending on the size of the subject
and some other factors. The flash disable mode
is the same as the Auto Picture Mode except that
the built-in flash does not pop up.

• In the flash disable mode, the external flash will

not discharge either.

• When the lens aperture ring is set to other than

[ A ] with the mode dial set to [ ], the Aperture­Priority AE Mode is automatically set.

26

BASIC OPERATION (SHOOTING)

Telephoto

USING ZOOM LENSES

Turning the zoom ring to the right makes the
subject appear larger (telephoto) and turning it
to the left makes the subject appear smaller
(wide angle).

• The Image Size Tracking Mode, Zoom Clip

Mode, Auto Zoom Effect Mode and Power Zoom
function do not operate with this camera even if
an FA power zoom lens is attached.

• The smaller the number shown in the zoom

scale window, the wider the angle. Conversely,
the larger the number, the more magnified the
image appears.

27

BASIC OPERATION (SHOOTING)

Wide angle

SETTING THE SINGLE-FRAME DRIVE MODE SELECTING THE AUTOFOCUS MODE

Depress the drive button until [ ] appears on
the LCD panel.

• One picture is taken each time the shutter
release button is depressed.

• See page 37 for other available function.

For autofocus operation, set the focus mode
switch to [AF]. When you depress the shutter
release button halfway down, the lens auto­matically focuses.

Set the focus mode switch to [ AF ].

• See page 64 for manual focusing.

28

BASIC OPERATION (SHOOTING)

• To reduce camera shake, support your body or
the camera on a solid object - a table, tree, or a
wall for instance.

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

• Although there are individual differences among
photographers, in general the shutter speed for a
hand held camera is the inverse of the focal
length. For example, 1/50 of second when the
focal length is 50mm, and 1/100 of second when
it is 100mm. A tripod should be used for shutter
speeds slower than this.

For best results, be sure to hold the camera
correctly as shown in the illustrations.

Hold the camera firmly, with your left hand sup­porting the camera and lens as shown in the illus­trations.

While taking a picture, hold your breath and gen­tly depress the shutter release button. Sudden
force on the shutter release button will cause cam­era shake, making the picture blurred.

HOLDING THE CAMERA

29

BASIC OPERATION (SHOOTING)

Camera held horizontally Camera held vertically

TAKING A PICTURE

Confirm that the focus mode switch has been
set to [ AF ].

1. Focus on the subject with the 3 point-AF
frame [ ] indicated in red in the photo­graph. When the shutter release button is
depressed halfway down, the lens automati­cally focuses.

2. When the shutter release button is
depressed halfway down, the shutter speed,
aperture setting and selected picture mode
are displayed in the viewfinder and the LCD
panel.

3. When the subject is in focus, the focus indi­cator [ ] lights up and an audible PCV
beeping signal is emitted.

• As this camera incorporates the 3-point autofo­cus system, the subject will be focused properly
even if the subject is slightly off the center of the
AF frame.

• The audible PCV signal can be turned off. See
details on page 63.

• During autofocus operation, the focusing ring
should not be obstructed with your fingers,
hands, or any other object.

The focus indicator [ ] blinks when the camera
is not able to obtain proper focus for one of the fol­lowing reasons.

1. The subject is too close. Adjust the camera-to-

subject distance.

2. The subject is difficult to autofocus. See

“HARD-TO-AUTOFOCUS” subject on page 66.

30

BASIC OPERATION (SHOOTING)

4. Take a picture. Gently depress the shutter
release button.

5. The built-in flash pops up automatically
when the use of flash is recommended.

• The shutter cannot be released if the subject is

out of focus.

• Depress the shutter release button halfway

down. While [ ] is on, the camera-to-subject
distance is fixed (focus lock). To refocus on
another subject, lift your finger off the shutter
release button.

• If the subject is moving too fast, the shutter may

not be released.

• The built-in flash starts charging automatically.

When it is fully charged, [ ] appears on the
LCD panel.

Predictive Autofocus Mode

When the camera senses subject movement dur­ing the autofocus operation, the camera will auto­matically switch the focus mode to the predictive
autofocus mode to measure the speed of a mov­ing subject, and predict where it will be at the
moment of shutter release to maintain sharp focus
on the subject.

• The built-in flash does not retract automatically.
To retract the flash, push it by the top until it
clicks into the position.

• Note that the built-in flash pops up even when
the subject is far away or beyond the maximum
flash effective range. See page 35 for the maxi­mum flash effective range.

• Note also that the built-in flash pops up even
when the lens on your camera is not appropriate
for shooting with a flash. For more details on
COMPATIBILITY OF F AND FA LENSES WITH
THE BUILT-IN FLASH, see page 69 for incom­patible lenses.

• When the built-in flash is used, using a lens hood
is NOT recommended as it may obstruct the
path of the light coming from the flash, causing
vignetting in the picture corners.

• The built-in flash does not pop-up automatically
when the external flash is attached.

31

BASIC OPERATION (SHOOTING)

SELECTING THE VARIOUS FLASH MODES

At each press of the flash mode button, the
flash mode on the LCD panel switches as
shown in the chart.

• The auto-popup flash mode can only be set
when the Auto Picture Mode or one of 5 picture
modes is set.

• The built-in flash pops up automatically when
[ ] is displayed on the LCD panel. But it dis­charges only when required. (Automatic flash
function)

• [ ] or [ ] can only be set when the Auto
Picture Mode is set.

• The auto-popup function of the built-in flash does
not work when the memory lock function is in
use.

• The automatic flash function can also be used
with the external flash.

• The built-in flash does not pop-up automatically
when the external flash has been mounted.
However, [ ] is displayed on the LCD panel
either with the power off or the external flash is
not yet fully charged.

32

BASIC OPERATION (SHOOTING)

AF Spotbeam projector

When the shutter release button halfway down
where it is hard for autofocus to work, such as in a
dark place, the built-in flash discharges continu­ously to provide illumination, making it easy for the
autofous to work.

• The effective range of AF spotbeam projector is
approx. 1m to 5m.

• The AF soptbeam of the built-in flash does not
work if you use the soptbeam of the external
flash such as the AF500FTZ or AF330FTZ flash.

• The AF spotbeam does not work either when the
Action Program Mode has been selected with
the focus mode switch set to the MF position or
when the flash disable mode has been selected.

• The external flash discharges if the AF spot­beam works when the AF500FTZ is attached
and the slave flash function is in use.You should
therefore set the focus mode switch to the MF
position before using the slave function.

Red-eye Reduction Flash Function

This camera includes a red-eye reduction flash
function, which reduces the red-eye phenomenon
utilizing preflash. In this mode, the preflash is dis­charged just before the shutter is released which
reduces the diameter of the pupil of the eye.Then
the main flash is discharged while the pupils are
smaller, which in turn reduces the red-eye effect.

About Red-eye Phenomenon

Shooting portraits with flash in a dark environment
often causes a subject’s eyes to turn out reddish
in the print. This phenomenon, commonly known
as “Red-Eye”, is caused by the reflection of the
electronic flash in the retina of your subjects eye.
It can be reduced by taking the photo in a brighter
light condition or by shooting with a wider angle
lens at a closer distance, or by employing the red­eye reduction flash feature. When using a Pentax
dedicated flash unit off the camera, it may also
help to position the flash as far away from the
camera as possible.

33

BASIC OPERATION (SHOOTING)

ACTIVATE THE BUILT-IN FLASH MANUALLY

1. Push the flash pop-up button to activate the

flash. Depress the shutter release button
fully, and the flash unit discharges.

2. After using the flash, retract the built-in

flash by pressing it down into the camera
body.

* The built-in flash starts charging automatically.

When it is fully charged, [ ] appears on the
LCD panel. When the shutter release button is
depressed halfway down, [ ] disappears
from the LCD panel, and the flash always dis­charges even if the subject is not required flash
light.

• The built-in flash does not pop up even if the
flash pop-up button is pushed when the mode
dial set to [ ].

• The shutter cannot be released until the flash is
fully charged.

• If the built in flash is used continuously, the bat­tery may become warm, but it does not mean the
battery is faulty; it is one of the battery’s charac­teristics.

• When the built-in flash is used, using a lens hood
is NOT recommended as it may obstruct the
path of the light coming from the flash, causing
vignetting in the picture corners.

• With the built-in flash popped-up, an external
flash cannot be attached to the hot shoe. If you
would like to use an external flash together with
the built-in flash, see the flash connections on
page 74.

34

BASIC OPERATION (SHOOTING)

Flash effective range for the Auto Picture
Mode and Picture Mode with ISO 100 (400) film
used

• The minimum effective range is always 0.7m
(2.6ft) even if a lens with a maximum aperture
f/2.8 or smaller is in use. When a subject is shot
at a distance closer than 0.7m (2.6ft), the correct
exposure cannot be obtained, and you will see
vignetting in the picture corners.

35

BASIC OPERATION (SHOOTING)

Maximum Lens Aperture Effective Range

f/1.4

approx. 0.8 - 3.9m (0.8 - 5.6m)

2.6 - 12.8ft (2.6 - 18.4ft)

f/2

approx. 0.8 - 3.3m (0.8 - 4.8m)

2.6 - 10.8ft (2.6 - 15.7ft)

f/3.5, f/4.7

approx. 0.7 - 2.4m (0.7 - 4.0m)

2.3 - 7.9ft (2.3 - 13.1ft)

f/5.6

approx. 0.7 - 2.0m (0.7 - 4.0m)

2.3 - 6.6ft (2.3 - 13.1ft)

The effective range of the flash depends on the
maximum aperture of the lens is in use.
A lens with a maximum aperture of f/1.4 is marked
as 1:1.4 on its barrel.

• This effective range table is only applicable when
the Auto Picture Mode or Picture Mode is
set.When any other exposure mode is used,see
page 68.

FLASH RECOMMENDED INFORMATION

The flash-recommended indicator [ ] on the LCD
panel blinks and the indicator in the viewfinder
turns to orange color when you attempt to photo­graph a subject in low light to warn you of possible
camera shake.

• In the Shutter-Priority AE Mode and Metered­Manual Mode, the flash-recommended indicator
blinks only when attempting to photograph a
subject in a backlit situation.

• The indicator in the viewfinder turns to green
when the flash is fully charged.

Inappropriate lens warning when the built-in
flash is used

When using an inappropriate F- or FA- lens, [ ]
will blink in the viewfinder and on the LCD panel
when the shutter release button is depressed
halfway down. For more details on COMPATIBILI­TY OF F AND FA LENSES WITH THE BUILT-IN
FLASH, see page 69.

• Taking a picture while this warning is displayed
may cause vignetting in the picture corners or
semi-circular vignetting at the bottom of the pic­ture.

• When lenses other than an F or FA are used, this
warning will not appear.

36

BASIC OPERATION (SHOOTING)

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

III. ADVANCED OPERATIONS

SELECTING A DRIVE MODE

This camera has a total of six drive modes as
shown.

Types of Drive Modes

Single-Frame Mode

[ ] : One picture is taken each time the shutter
release button is depressed.

Consecutive-Frame Mode

[ ] : Pictures can be taken consecutively while
holding down the shutter release button. See page
38

Self-timer Mode

[ ] : A picture will be taken with a 12-second­delay. See page 38.

3-second-delay release mode

[ ] : The shutter will be released 3 seconds
after the remote control’s shutter release button is
depressed. See page 40.

Instant Release Mode

[ ] : The shutter will be released instantly after
the remote control’s shutter release button is
depressed. See page 42.

Multiple-Exposure Mode

[ ] : See page 43 for more details.

37

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Consecutive-Frame Mode

Consecutive pictures can be taken by holding
down the shutter release button.

How to set

Depress the drive mode button until [ ] appears
on the LCD panel.

• The camera focuses on the subject frame by
frame in this mode.

• The shutter cannot be released while the built-in
flash is being charged.

Self-timer Mode

The self-timer mode delays the shutter release,
and is useful for taking group shots that include
the photographer. The shutter will be released
about 12 seconds after the shutter release is
depressed.

How to set

1. Depress the drive mode button until [ ]
appears on the LCD panel.

38

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

2. Focus on the subject first using the autofo­cus frame and by depressing the shutter
release button halfway down. Then depress
the shutter release button fully.

* When the self-timer is in operation, the audible

PCV signal is heard and the rate increases for
the last two seconds.

• The shutter will be released about 12 seconds

later.

How to cancel

To cancel the self-timer operation after it has been
activated, move the drive mode switch to a posi­tion other than [ ].

* Underexposure may occur if light enters the

viewfinder during self-timer operation. If you
intend to move away from the viewfinder, attach
the supplied finder cap as shown in the illustra­tion.

• When using accessories such as the finder cap,
remove the Eyecup FK. The Eyecup FK comes
from the factory fitted to the camera’s viewfinder
accessory grooves.

39

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

If you have purchased the optional wireless
remote control, read this section.

3-second-delay release mode

The shutter will be released 3 seconds after the
remote control’s shutter release button is
depressed.

1. Depress the drive button until [ ]
appears on the LCD panel.

• Adjust the focus by depressing the shutter

release button halfway down or manually and
then depress the remote control’s release but­ton.

2. The self-timer lamp start blinking slowly.

Battery life on the Remote Control

About 30,000 commands can be issued using the
Remote Control. If the battery is exhausted,
please have it replaced at your local Pentax
Service center (there is a charge for this service).

40

3. Aim the remote control transmitter towards
the remote control receiver on the camera,
and then depress the shutter release button
on the remote control.

• The operating distance of the wireless remote

control is 5m from in front of the camera.

4. The self-timer lamp blinks rapidly for 3 sec­onds and then the shutter is released.

• When the self-timer lamp blinks rapidly, the audi-

ble PCV signal is heard.

• When the picture is taken, the self-timer lamp

lights for approx. 2 seconds.

• The PVC signal can be canceled.

• The remote control may not work in a backlight

situation.

• To cancel the self-timer at any time after it’s been

activated, set the main switch to the OFF posi­tion or depress the drive button to set any other
mode.

41

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

REMOTE CONTROL SHOOTING (OPTIONAL)

If you have purchased the optional wireless
remote control, read this section.

Instant Release Mode

The shutter will be released instantly after the
remote control’s shutter release button is
depressed.

1. Depress the drive button until [ ]
appears on the LCD panel.

• Adjust the focus by depressing the shutter

release button halfway down or manually and
then depress the remote control’s release but­ton.

2. Aim the remote control transmitter towards
the remote control receiver on the camera,
and then depress the shutter release button
on the remote control.

• The operating distance of the wireless remote

control is 5m from in front of the camera.

• When the picture is taken, the self-timer lamp

lights for approx. 2 seconds.

42

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Multiple Exposure Mode

Procedure

1. Depress the drive button until [ ] appears
on the LCD panel. The frame counter on the
LCD panel blinks.

2. Depress the shutter release button to shoot
an initial exposure. The film will not
advance.The frame counter and [ ] on the
LCD panel blink.

3. Recompose the frame and depress the shut­ter release button to shoot the second shot.
The exposure counter on the LCD panel
stops blinking. The single-frame shooting
will be restored.

• To exposure the third shot or more, depress the
drive button until [ ] appears and repeat step

3.

• In this mode, the data will not be imprinted.

43

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

TAKING PANORAMA FORMAT PICTURES

You can switch between the panorama format and
standard format picture taking mode in the middle
of the roll by moving the panorama lever. The
panorama format picture allows horizontally posi­tioned dynamic pictures to be taken (the panora­ma format is approximately 13x36mm on the film).

1. Turn the panorama lever to [ P ] to select the
panorama format mode.

2. Compose the scene within the panorama
format frame in the viewfinder.

• When the panorama lever is switched to panora­ma, the viewfinder switches to the horizontal
panorama format frame.

• Ensure that the panorama lever is turned fully to
the position you selected.

• What appears on the extreme edges of the
panorama frame may be cut off in the develop­ment process. Compose your picture with a mar­gin of safety.

44

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

NOTES ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF PANORAMA FORMAT PICTURES

With panorama format pictures, only the middle area of the frame is exposed. The number of exposures
available in the panorama format is equivalent to that of the standard photo size.

45

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

• When developing the film, if you have taken only panorama format pictures on the entire roll of film, tell the
clerk at the processing lab to develop the film with only the panorama format. If there are both panorama
and standard format pictures on the film, ask the clerk to develop the film with both standard and panora­ma format.

• The development of panorama format pictures is a more time-consuming and expensive process than that
of standard pictures. Please consult the processing lab for more details.

• Panorama format processing facilities differ depending on the area and requirement.Your local film proces­sor or camera dealers will advise you on all options available to you.

• When the panorama format pictures are printed with a standard size format, the black cropped areas will
appear at the top and bottom of the picture.

USING THE PICTURE MODE

The camera incorporates the Auto Picture Mode
function. In this mode, the camera automatically
selects the one of 5 picture modes according to
the requirement of the scene. You can also select
your desired Picture Mode manually. The picture
mode has a total of 6 modes as follows. See
details for each mode on page 47 - 52.

How to set

1. Set the lens aperture ring to [ A ].

2. Set the mode dial to the desired exposure
mode.

46

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

* Exposure Warning

If the subject is too bright or too dark, the shutter
speed and aperture setting in the viewfinder will
blink. If the subject is too bright, select a darker
subject. Use a flash if the subject is too dark.

Green Operation Mode

For easy picture taking, use the Green Operation
Mode.You simply depress the shutter release but­ton. The camera selects the best combination of
aperture and shutter speed setting.

How to set:

Set the mode dial to [ ].

* When the shutter release button is depressed

halfway, [ ] will be displayed in the viewfinder.
The shutter speed and aperture setting are also
displayed in the viewfinder and on the LCD
panel.

47

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Portrait Program Mode

This mode is suitable for taking portrait photogra­phy.

How to set

Set the mode dial to [ ].

* When the shutter release button is depressed

halfway down, [ ] is displayed in the viewfinder.
The shutter speed and aperture setting are also
displayed in the viewfinder and on the LCD
panel.

In this mode, the telephoto lens produces a por­trait in crisp focus against the out-of-focus back­ground, while the wide angle lens enables you to
shoot group photography or snapshots in sharp
and clear focus with the extended depth-of-field.

48

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Landscape Program Mode

This mode is ideal for landscape photography and
scenic snapshots.

How to set

Set the mode dial to [ ].

* When the shutter release button is depressed

halfway down, [ ] is displayed in the viewfind­er. The shutter speed and aperture setting are
also displayed in the viewfinder and on the LCD
panel.

49

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Close-up Program Mode

This mode is useful for close-up photography.
This mode favors smaller apertures to maximize
the depth of field, ensuring sharp focus of a close­up subject.

How to set

Set the mode dial to [ ].

* When the shutter release button is depressed

halfway down, [ ] is displayed in the viewfinder.
The shutter speed and aperture setting are also
displayed in the viewfinder and on the LCD
panel.

50

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Action Program Mode

This mode selects a faster shutter speed to cap­ture a moving subject.

How to set

Set the mode dial to [ ].

* When the shutter release button is depressed

halfway down, [ ] is displayed in the viewfind­er. The shutter speed and aperture setting are
also displayed in the viewfinder and on the LCD
panel.

This mode freezes the action and prevent blurred
images. This mode is especially convenient for
active photography. It is also suitable for portraits
with blurred background.

51

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Night-scene Program Mode

* When the shutter release button is depressed

halfway down, [ ] is displayed in the viewfinder.
The shutter speed and aperture setting are also
displayed in the viewfinder and on the LCD
panel.

It is possible to photograph subjects and back­ground in a balanced way by using the flash to
properly expose the foreground subject and a
slow-speed to expose the low light background.
The shutter speed automatically changes in the
range of 1/100 to 1 second.

• Use of a tripod is recommended.

• The Green Operation Mode is automatically set

when the built-in flash is not in use.

52

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

This mode is useful when taking a portrait photo­graph with a night scene in the background.

How to set

Set the mode dial to [ ].

SELECTING AN EXPOSURE MODE

The exposure mode varies on the selection of the camera’s mode dial and lens aperture ring setting
as shown on the table below.

53

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

AUTO PICT, TV AV M

Lens
aperture

Lens aperture
set to A position
Lens aperture
set to other than A

Auto Picture
Mode
Aperture-Priority
AE

Picture Mode

Aperture-Priority
AE

Shutter-Priority
AE
Aperture-Priority
AE

Aperture-Priority
AE
Aperture-Priority
AE

Metered-Manual

Metered-Manual

Mode dial

Using the Aperture-Priority AE Mode

Purpose

When the desired aperture is selected, an appro­priate shutter speed is automatically set by the
camera for a proper exposure. This mode is ideal
for shooting landscapes with increased depth of
field, or a portrait against a blurred background.

How to set

1. Set the lens aperture ring to [ A ].

2. Set the mode dial to [ AV ].

3. Select the desired aperture by moving the
select switch.

54

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

* When the shutter release button is depressed

halfway down, the shutter speed and aperture
value will be displayed in the viewfinder and on
the LCD panel. The bar underneath the aperture
value indicates that you can change the aperture
setting.

• The Aperture-Priority AE Mode can also set
when the lens aperture rung is set the desired f­stop other than [ A ]. Set the mode dial to either
[ AUTO PICT ], [ ], [ ],[ ], [ ], [ ] or
[].

• The approximate aperture indication appears in
the viewfinder. It may not the same indication as
you select the lens aperture.

• When lenses other than an F or FA series are
used,no aperture indication will appear

* Exposure Warning

If the subject is too bright or too dark, the selected
shutter speed will blink in the viewfinder and on
the LCD panel as a warning as shown. When the
subject is too bright, choose a smaller aperture, if
available; when it is too dark, choose a larger
aperture, if available.When the shutter speed indi­cation stops blinking, you can take the picture. If
both shutter and aperture blink, it means that the
exposure is out of metering range, unable to
obtain a correct exposure even if the aperture is
adjusted. Select a darker subject if it is too bright,
or use a flash if it is too dark.

55

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Using the Shutter-Priority AE Mode

Purpose

When the desired shutter speed is selected, the
appropriate aperture is automatically set by the
camera for a proper exposure according to the
brightness of the subject. This mode is suitable for
freezing the action with a fast shutter speed or
capturing a flowing dynamic image with a slow
shutter speed.

How to set

1. Set the lens aperture ring to [ A ].

2. Set the mode dial to [ Tv ].

3. Select the desired shutter speed by moving
the select switch.

56

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

* When the shutter release button is depressed

halfway down, the shutter speed and aperture
value will be displayed in the viewfinder and on
the LCD panel. The bar underneath the shutter
speed indicates that you can change the shutter
speed.

* Exposure Warning

If the subject is too bright or too dark, the shutter
speed and aperture setting in the viewfinder blink.
When the subject is too bright, choose a faster
shutter speed. If it is too dark, choose a slower
shutter speed. When the shutter speed indication
stops blinking, you can take the picture. If both
selected shutter speed and aperture blink, it
means that the exposure is out of metering range,
unable to obtain a correct exposure even if the
shutter speed is adjusted. Select a darker subject
if the subject is too bright. Use a flash if it is too
dark.

57

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Using the Metered Manual Mode

Purpose

The manual exposure mode is a convenient expo­sure mode for taking pictures using the same
shutter speed and aperture setting combination,
or taking creatively under- or overe-xposed pho­tographs.

How to set

1. Set the lens aperture ring to [ A ].

2. Set the mode dial to [ M ].

3. Move the select switch to change the shut­ter speed.

4. Move the select switch while holding the
exposure compensation button to change
the aperture.

58

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

5. The dot displayed in the center of the bar
graph indicates the correct exposure.

* When the dots are displayed to the [ + ] side on

the bar graph, it indicates overexposure and
when the dots are displayed to the [ - ] side, it
indicates underexposure.

• Moving one dot on the bar graph indicates 0.5

step (0.5EV).

• When under or over exposure is set beyond + 2

or - 2 steps (3EV), [ + ] or [ - ] indicator will blink.

• When the shutter release button is depressed
halfway down, the shutter speed and aperture
value will be displayed in the viewfinder and on
the LCD panel. The bar underneath the aperture
value indicates that you can change the aperture
setting.

• When lenses other than an F or FA lens is used,
no approximate aperture indication will appear in
the viewfinder.

• The memory lock does not operate in the
Metered Manual Mode.

• The indicator in the viewfinder turns to orange
when the shutter speed changes to a slower
shutter speed which causes camera shake.

* Exposure Warning

If the subject is too bright or too dark, both shutter
speed and aperture setting will blink in the
viewfinder as a warning as shown. It means that
the exposure is out of metering range, unable to
obtain a correct exposure even if the aperture is
adjusted. Select a darker subject or use a flash if
it is too dark.

59

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

CORRECT UNDER OVER

Bulb Exposure Mode

Purpose

This mode is useful for the long exposures
required for shooting night scenes and fireworks.
The shutter remains open as long as the shutter
release button is held down.

How to set

1. With the Metered-Manual Mode set, move

the select lever to change the shutter sped
until [ ] appears in the viewfinder and on
the LCD panel.

2. When using this mode, use a steady tripod

to prevent camera shake and attach the
optional “Cable Switch F” after removing the
Release Socket Cap F.

• The shutter remains open as long as the shutter
release button held down.

• Up to approx. 8 hours of time exposure are pos­sible with a new lithium battery at room temper­atures.

• The indicator in the viewfinder turns to orange.

60

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

ABOUT EXPOSURE COMPENSATION

61

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Purpose

The exposure compensation allows you to delib­erately overexposure (brighten) or underexpo­sure(darken) a subject, or compensate for difficult
lighting conditions which may fool the camera’s
built-in exposure meter.

How to set

1. While holding down the exposure compen­sation button, move the select switch to the
desired compensation value.

2. The bar graph which indicates the compen­sation value and [ ] are displayed on the
LCD panel.

• When the dot is displayed to the [ + ] side, it indi­cates overexposure and when the dot is dis­played to the [ - ] side, it indicates underexpo­sure.

• Exposure compensation does not work in the
Auto Picture Mode, Metered Manual Mode and
Bulb Exposure Mode.

• The exposure compensation range is -3EV to
+3EV in 0.5EV stops.

How to cancel

Set the compensation value to [ 0 ]. The exposure
compensation cannot be canceled even if the
power is turned OFF or any other exposure mode
is set.

2. Move the select switch to display [ ] on

the LCD panel.

• You can change the audible PCV signal on or off
when the self-timer, remote control, memory lock
function is in use or when the focus is in-focus.

• The shutter cannot be released when the mode
dial is set to [ ].

TURNING OFF THE AUDIBLE PCV SIGNAL

62

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

The audible PCV signal can be turned off.

How to cancel

1. Set the mode dial to [ ].

MEMORY LOCK FUNCTION

63

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Purpose

The memory lock function enables an exposure
level lock function to get a correct exposure from a
neutral mid-tone area of a high-contrast scene.

To set the Memory Lock:

1. Position the area to be measured in the
viewfinder metering area and depress the
memory lock button [ ML ].

2. [ ] is displayed in the viewfinder and audi­ble PCV signal can be heard. The measured
exposure level is memorized for 20 sec­onds.

3. Recompose the image in the viewfinder and
take the picture.

• If the shutter release button is depressed
halfway down while the memory lock timer is
operating, the memorized meter reading will
remain even if the memory lock button is
released.

• When the memory lock button is depressed, the
audible PCV signal is heard.This PCV signal can
be turned off. See page 62.

• The auto-popup built-in flash function does not
work while the memory lock is used.

• The memory lock function dose not operete in
the Auto Picture Mode.

MANUAL FOCUSING

64

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Using a manual-focus lens

When mounting a non-autofous lens with a maxi­mum aperture of f/5.6 or larger (f/1.2 to f/5.6), you
can use the manual focus mode to focus the lens
with the aid of the in-focus indicator [ ] in the
viewfinder.

How to focus

1. Set the focus mode switch to [ MF ].

2. While looking through the viewfinder, turn

the focusing ring to the right or left while
holding the shutter release button halfway
down.

3. When the subject comes into focus, the in-

focus indicator [ ] lights up in the
viewfinder. Depress the shutter release but­ton fully to take the photograph.

• When the subject comes into focus, an audible
PCV signal is heard. The audible PCV signal can
be canceled. See page 62.

65

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

When the autofocus mode or the in-focus indi­cator is unsuitable for focusing

When the autofocus function or the viewfinder’s in­focus indicator [ ] cannot be used for focus con­firmation for the following reasons, focus on the
subject in the manual focus mode with the aid of
the matte field in the viewfinder as you would with
a non-AF SLR camera.

a) The in-focus indicator [ ] blinks because the

subject is difficult to autofocus.

b) The maximum aperture of the lens in use is

smaller than f/5.6.

c) A bellows 100mm f/4, Shift 28mm f/3.5 (shift),

or Reflex lens are in use.

d) An old type screw-mount lens fitted with an

optional “Mount Adapter K”.

Focus on the subject with the aid of the matte
field

1. Set the focus mode switch to [MF].

2. While looking through the viewfinder, turn

the focusing ring to the right or left until the
image in the viewfinder is clearest.

Using the snap-in focus function

When the subject comes to the point where the
lens was prefocused, the shutter is automatically
released.

How to use

1. Use a non-autofocus lens.

2. Set the focus mode switch to [AF].

3. Focus at the point where you wish to cap-

ture the subject.

4. Using the optional “Cable Switch F”, keep

the trigger release button depressed so that
the autofocus and metering systems stay
active.

5. The camera releases the shutter automati-

cally when the subject comes into focus at
the point selected.

66

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

HARD-TO-AUTOFOCUS SUBJECTS

The autofocus system is highly precise, but not perfect.
Depending on the brightness, contrast, shape, and size
of your subject, the autofocus system may not operate.
In such a case, set the focus mode switch to [ MF ] and
use the manual focus mode to focus the lens on the sub­ject with the aid of the matte field in the viewfinder (see
page 65).

Subjects which may fool the autofocus system include:

a) Extremely low-contrast subjects such as a white wall

in the autofocus frame[ ].

b) Subjects which don’t reflect much light in the autofo-

cus frame [ ].
c) Subjects which are moving too fast.
d) Multiple subjects in the foreground and background of

the autofocus frame [ ].
e) Subjects positioned against reflected light or strong

backlight or with extremely bright backgrounds.

Using a Polarizing Filter

When using an ordinary polarizing filter; the half mirror
incorporated into the autofocus system reduces the
effectiveness of the autofocus function when used in
combination with an ordinary polarizing filter. Use a CIR­CULAR POLARIZING FILTER for proper autofocus
operation.

Notes on accessories

The following conditions do not allow autofocusing
or manual focusing with the in-focus indicator in
the viewfinder. Use the manual focus mode to
focus on the subject with the aid of the matte field
surrounding the autofocus frame.

a) When using special effect filters or “Magic Image

Attachment” or “Stereo Adapter”.

b) When using Extension Tubes or an Auto Bellows for

close-up photography.

Note on the SMC Pentax F SOFT 85mm f/2.8 lens

When shooting at a distance closer than approx.

1.5m (4.9ft), set the lens to a manual f-stop setting
between f/2.8 and f/4.5. A smaller aperture (f/5.6
to f/32) may cause the autofocus system and the
viewfinder’s in-focus indicator to malfunction. To
remedy this problem, temporarily set the lens to
f/4.5. After focusing on the subject, lock focus, and
set the lens to the required f-stop.

• The FA Soft 85mm f/2.8 lens is not required above pro­cedures.

ADVANCED OPERATION FOR THE BUILT-IN FLASH (RTF)

67

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

When using the Auto Picture Mode or Picture
Mode.

• The camera automatically chooses an optimum
combination of shutter speed and aperture
according to the subject brightness, allowing you
to take a flash photograph with ease.

• The shutter speed automatically changes to
approximately 1/100 sec. or to a slower speed
which does not cause camera shake. The slow­est shutter speed depends on the focal length of
the lens fitted to the camera. When a Pentax
non-AF lens is used or the Action Program Mode
[ ] is used, the camera uses the shutter speed
of 1/100 second. Note that the slowest shutter
speed in the Night-scene Program Mode [ ] is
1 second.

When using the Shutter-Priority AE Mode

• When taking a fast moving subject, you can
increase a subjectis blur effect.

• Shutter speeds slower than 1/100 of second can
be set.

• In this mode, the aperture automatically changes
according to the ambient brightness, making
flash photography easy.

When using the Aperture-Priority AE Mode

• In this mode, the shutter speed automatically
changes with the ambient brightness, making
flash photography easy. The shutter speed
changes in the range of 1/100 sec. to a slower
shutter speed which does not cause camera
shake. The slowest shutter speed depends on
the focal length of the lens in use. The shutter
speed of 1/100 sec. is automatically set when a
Pentax non-autofocus lens is in use.When a
Pentax non-AF lens is used or the Action
Program Mode [ ] is used, the camera uses
the shutter speed of 1/100 second.

Metered Manual Mode

• When using the built-in flash in the Metered
Manual Mode, any combination of aperture and
shutter speed slower than 1/100 can be set. In
this mode, the exposure of the background can
be controlled by the manual exposure while the
flash properly exposes the foreground subject.

68

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Calculating the flash effective distance according to
the camera-to-subject distance.

Maximum flash distance = Guide Number ÷ Selected
aperture
Minimum flash distance = Maximum flash distance ÷ 5*

When the distance to the subject is less than 0.7m
(2.3ft), the flash cannot be used. If the flash is used with­in that distance, it causes vignetting in the picture cor­ners, light is distributed unevenly and the picture may be
overexposed.

• The value 5 used in the formula above was obtained
from the built-in flash.

The guide number (GN) depends upon the film speed
used as shown below.

Calculating the aperture according to the cam­era-to-subject distance

Aperture = Guide Number ÷ Camera-to-subject distance

If the calculated aperture value is different than an indi­cated f-stop on the aperture ring, for instance f/3, choose
the next smallest aperture ring number (f2.8 in this
case).

ISO25 → GN5.5
ISO50 → GN7.8

ISO100 → GN11

ISO200 → GN15.6

ISO400 → GN22

If an ISO100 film is used at an aperture of f/2.8, the flash
effective distance is obtained as follows:

Guide Number (11) ÷ f/2.8 = 3.9m

3.9 ÷ 5 = 0.8m

Thus, the flash effective distance is from approx. 0.8m to

3.9m.

69

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

COMPATIBILITY OF F AND FA LENSES WITH THE BUILT-IN FLASH

[O = compatible x = incompatible because of vignetting]

Lens Name

F Fish-Eye Zoom 17-28mm f/3.5-4.5
FA Zoom 20-35mm f/4
FA Zoom 28-70mm f/4
FA* Zoom 28-70mm f/2.8
FA Zoom 28-80mm f/3.5-5.6
FA Zoom 28-105mm f/4-5.6 (IF)
FA Zoom 28-200mm f/3.8-5.6
FA Zoom 70-200mm f/4-5.6
FA* Zoom 80-200mm f/2.8
FA Zoom 80-320mm f/4.5-5.6
F Zoom 80-200mm f/4.7-5.6
F Zoom 100-300mm f/4.6-5.6
FA Zoom 100-300mm f/4.5-5.6
F or FA *Zoom250-600mm f/5.6
FA Soft 28mm f/2.8
FA Soft 85mm f/2.8

Compatibility

x
∆ *1

O

x

∆ *2
∆ *3
∆ *4

O

∆ *5

O
O
O
O

x
O
O

*1 : Vignetting will occur at focal lengths between 20-28mm.
*2 : Vignetting will occur at focal lengths between 28-35mm when the camera-to-subject distance is closer

than 3m. With the focal length set at 35mm, it will occur when the camera-to-subject distance is closer

than 1m.
*3 : Vignetting will occur at focal lengths between 28-40mm.
*4 : Vignetting will occur at focal lengths between 28-70mm.
*5 : Vignetting will occur at focal lengths between 80-90mm.

Lens Name

FA 20mm f/2.8
FA* 24mm f/2
FA 28mm f/2.8
FA 35mm f/2
FA 50mm f/1.4
FA 50mm f/1.7
FA* 85mm f/1.4
FA 135mm f/2.8
FA* 200mm f/2.8
FA* 300mm f/2.8
FA* 300mm f/4.5
FA* 400mm f/5.6
FA* 600mm f/4
FA MACRO 50mm f/2.8
FA MACRO 100mm f/2.8
FA MACRO 100mm f/3.5

Compatibility

x

x
O
O
O
O
O
O
O

x
O
O

x
O
O
O

SETTING THE FILM SPEED (ISO) MANUALLY

This camera automatically reads the film speed
from the film’s DX code. However, the film speed
setting can be changed. If you use a non-DX
coded film, set the film speed manually.

How to set

1. Set the mode dial to [ ISO ].

2. Move the select switch until the desired ISO
is displayed on the LCD panel.

3. After the ISO is set, set the mode dial to any
other position other than [ ISO ].

• To change the ISO, turn the select switch to the
left for a smaller number (lower film speed or
right for a larger number (higher film speed).

• The shutter cannot be released with the mode
dial set at [ ISO ].

• [ ISO ] is displayed when the film speed is set
manually.

70

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

ADJUSTING THE DATA (optional)

If you have purchased your camera as the DATE model version, or if
you have purchased the Data Back separately, the following section
applies.

Note:

Carefully press the button with the protrusion part of the camera’s strap
clamp.
Do not press the buttons with an object having a sharp tip.

Adjusting the year/month/day

1. Press the DATE button repeatedly until the date is displayed.

2. Press the SELECT button to make the year, month or day you
want to change blink. The digits blink in the following order.

Year - Month - Day - Year

3. Change the date with the ADJUST button.

• The digit increases by one each time the ADJUST button is depressed.

Holding the button for about 2 to 3 seconds will change the digits con­tinuously.

4. Press the SELECT button to stop the digit from blinking, after you
have changed the date. The adjusted date has been entered.

71

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Adjusting the hour/minute

1. Press the DATE button repeatedly until the
time is displayed.

2. Press the SELECT button to make the hour,
minute or second ( : ) you want to change
blink. The digits blink in the following order.

Hour - Minutes - : - Hour

3. Change the data ( hour or minute ) with the
ADJUST button.

4. To change the second ( : ), press the
SELECT button until “ : “ will blink, and then
press the ADJUST button in sync with a
time signal to set the second to zero.

5. Press the SELECT button to stop the adjust­ed hour/minute from blinking.

Operational precautions

• The working temperature for data printing is 0°C

- 50°C (32˚F - 122˚F).

• Use DX-coded films with ISO rating from 25 -

1600.

• If high-speed film with an ISO rating of 1000 or
faster is used, the imprinted characters may blur.

• If film with ISO rating of 50 or slower is used, the
printed characters may be dark or dim.

• If you release the shutter while the blinking data
is being corrected, the data cannot be imprinted.

72

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

INSTALLING THE BATTERY IN THE BATA BACK

Replace the battery when the data information on
a picture or the LCD panel becomes weak or invis­ible.The battery will last for approximately 3 years.
The data back uses one 3V lithium battery, type
CR2025.

1. Ensure that a film is not loaded, then open
the back cover.

2. Loosen the battery cover fixing screw
(located near the upper left side of the pres­sure plate ) with a Phillips head screwdriver,
and then remove the battery chamber cover.

3. Replace the old battery with a new battery
with the + side facing up.

4. Reinstall the battery chamber cover, and
tighten the battery chamber fixing screw.

Note:

If the data indication does not appear on the LCD
panel, it means that the battery has not been
installed properly. After the battery has been
replaced, adjust the data again.

73

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

USING PENTAX DEDICATED AUTO FLASH UNITS

If the built-in flash is not powerful enough, a
Pentax dedicated auto flash should be used.

A Pentax dedicated TTL Auto Flash like the PEN­TAX AF FTZ or AF T series flash unit (ie:
AF500FTZ, AF330FTZ, AF220T or AF280T)
incorporate the TTL Flash Mode.

Using the TTL Auto Flash Mode

1. Remove the hot shoe cover FK and attach a
Pentax dedicated flash unit to the camera.

2. Turn the flash ON.

3. Set the flash mode to the TTL Auto Mode.

4. Confirm that the flash is fully charged.

5. Focus on the subject and release the shut­ter.

• When the flash is fully charged, the ready lamp

on the flash unit lights up. When the shutter
release button is depressed halfway down, [ ]
appears in the viewfinder indicating the flash is
ready.

Note:

Read the operating manual of the flash unit for
more details.

Using the built-in flash and the external flash
simultaneously

An external flash cannot be used when the built-in
flash is in its popped up position. When the built-in
flash and the external flash are used simultane­ously, use the following optional accessories.

• The AF400T flash cannot be used with the built­in flash simultaneously decause the 4P sync
cord B from the AF400T will interrupt the func­tion of the built-in flash.

74

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Hot Shoe Adapter FG

Off-Camera Shoe
Adapter F

Extension Cord F5P

Red-eye reduction flash function

The red-eye reduction flash function with an exter­nal flash attached can also be used depending on
what type of an external flash is attached, and it
may have any restrictions for usage. See page 76
more details. The red-eye reduction flash function
can be used only when the external flash is set to
the TTL Auto Mode.

Trailing-Shutter-Curtain Flash function

When using the built-in flash and the external flash
simultaneously, the trailing-shutter-curtain-flash
function for the built-in flash also operates when
the external flash is set to the trailing-shutter-cur­tain-flash function. Before shooting, confirm that
both flash units are fully charged.

Contrast-Control-Sync Flash Photography

Using the AF330FTZ or AF500FTZ in combination
with the built-in flash allows twin flash photography
(contrast-control-synch flash photography).This is
based on the difference between the amount of
light discharged from two units.

1. Put the AF500FTZ or AF330FTZ in the

Contrast-Control-Sync Flash Mode.

2. Ensure that both flash units are fully

charged and then shoot.

• The ratio of the amount of flash light is 1 (built-in
flash) : 2 (dedicated flash unit).

• Do not combine an accessory with a different
number of contacts such as a “Hot Shoe Grip” as
a malfunction may occur.

• In the Contrast-Control-Sync Flash Mode, the
top flash sync speed is 1/60 of second.

Multi-burst flash with the Pentax dedicated
flash

When discharging more than 2 Pentax dedicated
flashes, make sure that they are of the same type,
combine the type B with Type C or Type D with
Type E. Refer to the overview of Flash Function on
page 78. The built-in flash can be operated with
any type of Pentax TTL dedicated flash unit except
AF400T

75

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Overview of Flash Function

Manual or Bulb. The Auto Picture Mode, Picture
Mode and Aperture-Priority AE Modes cannot be
used because the actual required aperture value

may change.
*3. Only the AF200SA flash does not operate.
*4. Only the Metered Manual Mode can be used.
*5. The shutter speed is 1/60 of second or slower.
*6. Trailing-shutter-curtain sync flash combined with

TYPE B or TYPE C flash.

Using other type of a flash

Use of non-Pentax flash units may damage the
camera. For the best results, use a Pentax dedi­cated flash unit.

TYPE A : Built-in flash
TYPE B : AF500FTZ (*6), AF330FTZ
TYPE C : AF400FTZ, AF240FT
TYPE D : AF400T, AF280T, AF220T, AF200T,

AF080C, AF140C, AF200SA, AF201A

TYPE E : AF200S, AF160, AF140

Notes:

*1. When using the AF280T or AF400T with the flash

confirmation OFF and TTL mode set, the red-eye
reduction function operates.

*2. When using a Type D flash (except AF200SA) in the

MS (Manual Sync) or M (Manual) Mode or when
using a Type E flash, set the camera’s exposure
mode to the Aperture-Priority AE Mode, Metered

76

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

TYPE B TYPE C TYPE D TYPE ECAMERA FUNCTION TYPE A

O
O

O
O

O

O
O

O
O

x

O

O
O

O

O
O

O
O

O*1
O

O*2

x

O

*3

O

x
x
x

x

O

O*2

x
x

O

x
x
x

Red-eye reduction flash function
After the flash is charged, the camera automati­cally switches to the flash-sync speed.
Automatic aperture setting in the Auto Picture
Mode, Picture Mode or Shutter-Priority AE Mode
Flash confirmation in the viewfinder
TTL auto flash
Slow-speed sync in the Shutter-Priority AE
Mode or Metered Manual Mode
AF spotbeam
Trailing-shutter-curtain sync flash *4
Contrast-control-sync flash mode *4

O
O

O
O

O

O

x

*5

x

DAYLIGHT-SYNC SHOOTING

Purpose

In daylight conditions, when a portrait picture is
taken with a person’s face cast in shadow, dis­charging the flash will eliminate the shadow.

1. Depress the red-eye reduction flash button

to delete [ ] from the LCD panel.

2. Confirm either the built-in or external flash

is fully charged.

3. Take a picture.

• If the background is too bright, it may be overex-

posed.

• When taking a daylight-sync photograph with

[ ] displayed on the LCD panel, the flash
may not discharge.

77

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Without Daylight-Sync

With Daylight-Sync

SLOW-SPEED-SYNC SHOOTING

Purpose

It is possible to balance the exposure of a fore­ground subject against a dimly-lit background by
using the flash to properly expose the foreground
subject and a slow-shutter-speed to expose the
low light background.

How to set

With the Night-scene Program Mode set

1. Set the mode dial to [ ].

2. Set the lens aperture ring to [ A].

3. The built-in flash pops up automatically.

4. Before shooting, confirm that the flash is
fully charged.

• In this mode, the shutter speed automatically
changes with ambient brightness. The shutter
speed changes in the range from 1/100 sec. to 1
second

• When the flash does not pop-up in the step 3,
push the flash pop-up button to activate the
flash.

How to set

With the Metered Manual Mode set

1. Depress the flash pop-up button to activate

the built-in flash.

2. Set the camera’s exposure mode to the

Metered Manual Mode.

3. Select an appropriate shutter speed (slower

than 1/100 of second) and aperture combi­nation for a correct exposure.

4. Before shooting, confirm that the flash is

fully charged.

Note

• The slow-speed-sync can also be used with the
Shutter-Priority AE Mode set. Confirm that the
exposure warning (Blinking aperture setting) is
not appearing in the viewfinder.

• In the slow-shutter-sync shooting, use of a tripod
is recommended to prevent camera shake.

78

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

ACCESSORIES (OPTIONAL)

A number of dedicated accessories are available
for this camera.

• Cable Switch F

A shutter release cord designed for use with the MZ­7/ZX-7, Z-10/PZ-10, ZX-50/MZ-50, MZ-5N/ZX-5N, Z1­P/PZ-1P.

• Magnifier FB

A viewfinder accessory for magnifying the central area
of the viewfinder.

• AF500FTZ

A TTL Auto Zoom flash with a built-in AF spotbeam and
large guide number of 50 in meters (ISO 100). It fea­tures the slave sync flash function, multiple flash burst,
contrast-control-sync flash, leading/trailing-curtain­sync flash mode.

• AF330FTZ

A TTL Auto Zoom flash with a built-in AF spotbeam and
guide number of 33 in meters (ISO 100). It features the
contrast-control sync flash, leading/trailing-curtain­sync flash mode.

• AF220T

A TTL Auto Zoom flash with a guide number of 22 in
meters (ISO 100).

• Macro Flash AF140C

A TTL macro flash unit with the guide numbers 14 in
meters (ISO 100).

• AF Adapter 1.7X

An adapter for autofocus photography using a non-aut­ofocus lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.8 or larger.

• Refconverter A

Right angle finder which attaches to the grooves on
both sides of the viewfinder.The viewfinder magnifica­tion is able to switch from 1X to 2X.

• AA-Battery Pack F

G

The battery pack which takes four AA batteries can
attach at the bottom of the camera, instead of using the
lithium batteries.

• Data Back Fl

Allowing you to print one of the following modes on the
film both standard format mode and panorama format
mode.

Year / month / day, day / month / year, month / day / year,
day / hour / minute, --------- (blank)

Notes on accessories

• “Auto Bellows A” cannot be used in combination with

the double cable release. Use “Cable switch F” instead.
When taking a vertical photograph, position the camera
with the grip facing upward. In this case, however, the
cable switch F cannot be used, so shooting in a verti­cal position is not recommended.

• When attaching the “ADAPTER K FOR 645 LENS” to

the camera body, the camera shift lock screw of the
lens may hit the camera body. To avoid this, change the
position of the fixing screw.

• When the refconverter A is used, it may interfere with

the camera when you open or close the back cover.
Remove the refconverter A before opening or closing
the back cover.

79

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

CAMERA CASE

The soft case is available as an option and con­sists of a front and a back cover.

1. Open the front cover and place the camera
body in the back cover.

2. Attach the front case.

3 There is a pocket on the front case so you

can store the lens cap.

• Do not store the filter in the pocket. The filter

could break if bumped.

• Choose one of the front cases in accordance

with the table to the right.

• The back case is the same back case indicated

with the Soft case S,M and L.

Front case comes in three sizes, S, M and L

80

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Case

FKS

FKM

FKL

Applicable F, FA-lens

20mm, 24mm, 28mm, 35mm, 43mm limited,
50mm f/1.4, f/1.7, 135mm, Fish-Eye Zoom
17-28mm, Zoom 20-35mm, Zoom 28-70mm
f/4, Zoom 28-80mm f/3.5-5.6, Zoom 35­80mm, Macro 50mm, Macro 100mm f/3.5,
Soft 28mm, Soft 85mm

85mm f/1.4, Zoom 28-105mm, Zoom 28­200mm

Macro 100mm f/2.8, Zoom 70-200mm, Zoom
80-200mm f/4.7-5.6

81

ADVANCED OPERATIONS

DEPTH OF FIELD

Depth of field refers to the range around the opti­mum focusing point of the subject in which the ele­ments at different distances are in focus. The
depth of field increases as the aperture is closed
down, the focal length of the lens becomes short­er, or the subject is positioned farther away.

81

The Range Allowed for Focusing

The in-focus range varies depending on the aper­ture in use. Zoom lenses do not have a depth-of­field scale for mechanical considerations.

OTHERS

IV OTHERS TROUBLESHOOTING

82

What appears troublesome may be easily remedied. Here are some problems that may occur and their remedies.
Before contacting a Pentax service center, check the following items.

The main switch is [OFF].
The low battery warning [ ] is
blinking.
The battery is improperly installed.
The mode dial is set at [ISO] or
[]

.

Self-timer mode is being set.
The built-in flash is being charged.
The main switch is [OFF].
No battery has been installed.
The battery is improperly
installed.The battery is dead.
AF frame is not placed over the
subject.

The subject is too close.

The focus mode is set to [MF].

The subject is difficult to autofocus.

Symptoms Causes Remedies

Turn ON the main switch.

Replace the battery.

Install the battery properly.
Set the mode dial to another posi­tion.
Cancel the self-timer mode.
Wait until the flash is fully charged.
Turn ON the main switch
Install the battery.
Install the battery properly.
Replace the battery.
Move the camera until the AF
frame [ ] covers the subject.
Increase the camera-to-subject
distance.

Set the focus mode switch to [ AF ].

Focus manually by using the matte
field

Reference

P. 1 6

P. 1 2

P. 1 2

P. 4 6

P.39
P.34
P.16
P.12
P.12
P.12

P.30

P.30

P.28

P.65

The shutter does not
release.

Indicators do not appear on
the LCD panel.

The camera does not focus.

OTHERS

In rare cases, the camera may not operate correctly due to statistic electricity. This can be remedied by taking
the batteries out and putting them back in again.

83

Symptoms Causes Remedies

Memory lock and exposure com­pensation function do not oper­ate.
[ ] in the viewfinder blinks

The built-in flash does not charge.
The built-in flash does not acti­vate when the flash-pop-up but­ton is depressed.
The built-in flash does not pop-up
automatically

The built-in flash does not dis­charge even if the flash is upped
position.
The power zoom system does not
function.

The Auto picture mode or metered man­ual mode is being used.

The subject is too close or difficult to aut­ofocus.
The mode dial is being set to [ ].
The exposure mode is being set other
than the Auto Picture Mode or Picture
Mode.

The mode dial is set to [ ].

When [ ] appears on the LCD panel,
the built-in flash does not discharge
because the flash light is not required.
The camera does not have the power
zoom function.

Set the mode dial to
another position.

Focus manually by using
the matte field.
Replace the battery.
Set the mode dial to
another position.

Set the exposure mode to
Auto Picture or Picture
Mode.

P.24, 61

P.65

P.12

P.26

P.25.46

P.25

P.27

Remedies

OTHERS

SPECIFICATIONS

TTL autofocus, auto-exposure 35mm SLR with built-in TTL auto flash (RTF)
24x36mm (approx. 13x36 in panorama format)
35mm perforated cartridge film. DX-coded film with ISO 25-5000; non-DX coded

films with ISO 6-6400
Auto Picture Mode, Picture Mode (Green Operation Mode, Portrait Program Mode, Landscape Program Mode,

Close-up Program, Action Program Mode, Night-scene Program Mode), Shutter-Priority AE Mode, Aperture­Priority AE Mode, Metered Manual Mode, Bulb Mode, TTL Flash Mode

Electronically controlled vertical-run focal-plane shutter, Electromagnetic release,
Speed range:(1)Auto 1/2000-30 sec.(stepless),(2)Manual 1/2000-30 sec.(3)Bulb,
Shutter lock by setting Main switch in OFF position.

Pentax K

AF2 bayonet mount (K-mount with AF coupler, lens information contacts)

Pentax K

AF2-, KAF-,KA-, and K-mount lenses are usable. Autofocus is possible using AF Adapter with KA-mount

lenses.
TTL phase-matching multi(3-point) autofocus system, AF operational brightness range: EV-1 to 18(at ISO 100

with f/1.4 lens), Focus lock available using shutter release button, Focus Mode: AF (predictive AF provided),
Manual [ MF ]

Not available.
Pentamirror finder, Natural-Bright-Matte focusing screen, Field of view:92%,

Magnification:0.7X (with 50mm f/1.4 lens at

∞

), Diopter: -2 to +1 diopter, Panorama format frame
Focus Information: In-focus (Green lamp [ ] is lit), front or back focus signals and unable-to-focus indicator
(Green lamp blinks), Shutter speed indication, Aperture indication, Flash ready indication [ ] is lit, Bar
graph(exposure compensation),Over or Under exposure indication in Metered Manual Mode, exposure compen­sation indication, Green Operation Mode [ ], Portrait Program Mode [ ], Landscape Program Mode
[ ], Close-up Program Mode [ ], Action Program Mode [ ], Night-scene Program Mode [ ], [ ] mem­ory lock indicator

Shutter speed, Aperture value, [ ] = Built-in flash ready indication, [ ] = blinking slowly flash recommended
warning, [ ] = blinks rapidly Inappropriate lens warning, [ ] = Red-eye reduction flash mode, [ ] = Auto­popup flash function, Flash disable function [ ], ISO indication, [ ] = Film status information, [ ] =
Battery exhaustion warning, Exposure counter, [ ] = PCV signal indication, [ ] = Exposure compensation,
Exposure compensation value, [ ] = Self-timer, [ ] = Instant release with remote control unit, [ ] =
3 sec. delay shutter release with remote control unit, [ ] = Consecutive shooting, [ ] = Multiple exposure

84

Type: ––––––––––––––
Format: ––––––––––––
Usable Film: ––––––––

Exposure Modes: ––––

Shutter: ––––––––––––

Lens Mount: ––––––––
Compatible Lens: ––––

Autofocus System: ––

Power Zoom: ––––––––
Viewfinder: ––––––––––

Viewfinder Indication:

External LCD panel
Indication: ––––––––––

OTHERS

85

Electronically-controlled type with delay time of 12 sec. Start by depressing of shutter release but­ton, Operation confirmation: By PCV beep tone. Cancelable after operation
Instant-return mirror with AF secondary mirror
Film advances automatically to 1st frame after back cover is closed, Film information window is
provided

Auto wind/rewind by built-in motor, Consecutive or Single advance mode, Approx.2
frames/sec.(consecutive mode), Auto rewinding starts at end of roll, Film rewind/completion of
rewinding is displayed on the LCD panel, Mid-roll rewind button will rewind film in mid-roll
TTL multi(6)-segment metering, Metering range from EV-1 to EV21 at ISO100 with 50mm f/1.4 lens

± 3EV in 0.5EV step increments
Series-control, Auto-popup TTL Auto Flash (RTF), Guide number:11 (ISO100/m), Illumination
angle covers 28mm lens angle of view, Flash-sync-shutter in the range from 1/100 sec. to a slow­er speed, Day-light-sync flash, Slow-shutter-sync flash, Contrast-control-sync flash (ISO range =
25 ñ 800), Automatic flash function, Red-eye reduction flash function
Hot shoe with X-contact with couples with Pentax dedicated auto flashes, ISO range = 25-800,
Red-eye reduction flash function
Two 3V lithium batteries (CR2 or equivalent)

Battery exhaustion symbol [ ] is lit (blinking when the shutter is locked; no indication on the
right-hand edge of the viewfinder.)

135.5mm(W)x92.0mm(H)x63.5mm(D) (5.3´x3.6´x2.5´) 380g (13.4 oz) body only without batteries

135.5mm(W)x92.0mm(H)x63.5mm (5.3´x3.6´x2.5´) 395g (13.9 oz)

Hot Shoe Cover FK, Release Socket Cap F, Camera Strap FK, Eye Cup FK, Finder Cap
Interchangeable for replacing with Data Back FI

Self-timer ––––––––

Mirror: ––––––––––
Film Loading: ––––

Film Wind &
Rewind: ––––––––––

Exposure Meter: ––
Exposure
Compensation: ––––
Flash:––––––––––––

Flash sync: ––––––

Power Source: ––––
Battery Exhaustion
Warning: ––––––––
Dimension and
Weight: ––––––––––
Date Model
Dimension and
weight: ––––––––––
Supplied
Accessories: ––––––
Back cover: ––––––

SPECIFICATIONS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTIFICATION OR ANY OBLIGATION ON
THE PART OF THE MANUFACTURER.

OTHERS

Green Operation Mode Portrait Program Mode

PROGRAM LINE

At ISO 100 with FA28 - 80mm f/3.5 - 5.6 lens

86

At ISO 100 with FA28 - 80mm f/3.5 - 5.6 lens

LandscapeProgram Mode

At ISO 100 with FA28 - 80mm f/3.5 - 5.6 lens

OTHERS

Close-up Program Mode

Action Program Mode

At ISO 100 with FA28 - 80mm f/3.5 - 5.6 lens

87

At ISO 100 with FA28 - 80mm f/3.5 - 5.6 lens

OTHERS

WARRANTY POLICY

All Pentax cameras purchased through authorized
bona fide photographic distribution channels are
guaranteed against defects of material or work­manship for a period of twelve months from date
of purchase. Service will be rendered, and defec­tive parts will be replaced without cost to you with­in that period, provided the equipment does not
show evidence of impact, sand or liquid damage,
mishandling, tampering, battery or chemical cor­rosion, operation contrary to operating instruc­tions, or modification by an unauthorized repair
shop. The manufacturer or its authorized repre­sentatives shall not be liable for any repair or alter­ations except those made with its written consent
and shall not be liable for damages from delay or
loss of use or from other indirect or consequential
damages of any kind, whether caused by defec­tive material or workmanship or otherwise; and it
is expressly agreed that the liability of the manu­facturer or its representatives under all guarantees
or warranties, whether expressed or implied, is
strictly limited to the replacement of parts as here­inbefore provided. No refunds will be made on
repairs by non-authorized Pentax service facilities.

Procedure During 12-month Warranty Period.
Any Pentax which proves defective during the 12­month warranty period should be returned to the
dealer from whom you purchased the equipment
or to the manufacturer. If there is no representa­tives of the manufacturer in your country, send the
equipment to the manufacturer, with postage pre­paid. In this case, it will take a considerable length
of time before the equipment can be returned to
you owing to the complicated customs procedures
required. If the equipment is covered by warranty,
repairs will be made and parts replaced free of
charge, and the equipment will be returned to you
upon completion of servicing. If the equipment is
not covered by warranty, regular charges of the
manufacturer or of its representatives will apply.
Shipping charges are to be borne by the owner. If
your Pentax was purchased outside of the country
where you wish to have it serviced during the war­ranty period, regular handling and servicing fees
may be charged by the manufacturer’s represen­tatives in that country. Notwithstanding this, your
Pentax returned to the manufacturer will be ser­viced free of charge according to this procedure
and warranty policy.

88

STATEMENT OF FCC COMPLIANCE

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This
device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this
device must accept any interference received, including inter­ference that may cause undesired operation.
Changes or modifications not approved by the party respon­sible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate
the equipment.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with
the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of
the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reason­able protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accor­dance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference
to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this
equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or tele­vision reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct
the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and
receiver.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician
for help.

In any case, however, shipping charges and cus­toms clearance fees to be borne by the sender. To
prove the date of your purchase when required,
please keep the receipt or bills covering the pur­chase of your equipment for at least a year. Before
sending your equipment for servicing, please
make sure that you are sending it to the manufac­turer’s authorized representatives or their
approved repair shops, unless you are sending it
directly to the manufacturer. Always obtain a quo­tation for the service charge, and only after you
accept the quoted service charge, instruct the ser­vice station to proceed with the servicing.

The local warranty policies available from
Pentax distributors in some countries can
supersede this warranty policy. Therefore, we
recommend that you review the warranty card
supplied with your product at the time of pur­chase, or contact the PENTAX distributor in
your country for more information and to
receive a copy of the warranty policy.

3

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the
Canadian Interference - Causing Equipment Regulations.

89

Asahi Optical Co., Ltd. 11-1 Nagata-cho 1-chome, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-0014, JAPAN (Internet://www.pentax.co.jp/)
Pentax Europe n.v. Weiveldlaan 3-5, 1930 Zaventem, BELGIUM (Internet://www.pentaxeurope.com/)
Pentax GmbH. Julius-Vosseler-Strasse, 104, D-22527 Hamburg, GERMANY (Internet://www.pentax.de/)
Pentax U.K. Limited Pentax House, Heron Drive, Langley, Slough Berks SL3 8PN, U.K.
Pentax FRANCE S.A. 12/14, rue Jean Poulmarch, 95100 Argenteuil Cedex, FRANCE
Pentax Benelux B.V. (for Netherlands) Spinveld 25, 4815 HR Breda, NETHERLANDS

(for Belgium & Luxemburg) Weiveldlaan 3-5, 1930 Zabentem, BELGIUM

Pentax (Schweis) AG Industriestrasse 2, 8305 Dietlikon, SWITZERLAND
Pentax Scandinavia AB P.O. Box 650, 75127 Uppsala, SWEDEN
Pentax Corporation 35 Inverness Drive East, Englewood, Colorado 80112, U.S.A. (Internet://www.pentax.com/)
Pentax Canada Inc. 3131 Universal Drive, Mississauga, Ontario L4X 2E5, CANADA

Copyright © Asahi Optical Co.Ltd. 1999

56907 ENG This operating manual is printed on recycled paper. 01-9909 Printed in Japan