Price :
$639.95Product Description
From the Manufacturer
The compact, lightweight
Pentax K-r is easy to use with Auto Picture, Scene, and Custom Image Processing modes that take the guesswork out of shooting stunning images while still offering a high degree of manual and priority control. The K-r offers a variety of new and improved features including a fast framerate, high ISO sensitivity, responsive autofocus, an improved 12.4-megapixel low-noise sensor and widescreen HD video capture that take it a step above an entry-level DSLR camera. Key features of the
Pentax K-r that are new or have been improved upon from the most recent entry to mid-level Pentax DSLR models include:
- Large 3 inch LCD with 921,000 dots of resolution
- Faster high speed 6 FPS framerate that captures 25 images in a single sequence
- A maximum 1/6000 second shutter speed
- Viewfinder focus point indicator
- Improved in-camera HDR image capture including a Night Scene HDR mode
- High sensitivity 100-25600 ISO range with improved noise performance from the new 12.4 megapixel CMOS sensor
- Versatile dual-power-source design, which offers the choice of either a rechargeable lithium-ion battery or four AA-size battery power (using optional AA Battery Holder D-BH109)
- Infrared data transfer compatible with the IrSimple high-speed infrared data transmission system for wireless data transfer to the web or other IrSimple-compatible devices (includes a match-game between two Pentax K-r's).
Other important features of the new K-r models include: widescreen 720p HD video at 25 FPS; Pentax-original Shake Reduction mechanism for sharp, blur-free images that works with every Pentax lens ever made; Dust Removal mechanism, to shake dust off the CMOS image sensor; Highly responsive and accurate 11 point SAFOX IX autofocus system with dedicated AF assist lamp; and wide range of in-camera image processing and special effects filters. With a highly portable, compact and lightweight body in a choice of colors, the K-r holds appeal for busy parents, family memory-keepers, travelers and anyone who reflects personal style in all their pursuits including their journey into photography or videography as a skill or hobby. Pentax K-r Highlights High-quality, true-to-life image reproductionThe K-r incorporates a new generation CMOS image sensor with 12 megapixels and the high-performance PRIME (Pentax Real Image Engine) II imaging engine for accurate and high-speed data processing equal to that of upper-level Pentax digital SLR models for high-quality images. The camera also offers a wide sensitivity range between ISO 200 and ISO 12800 that may be expanded from ISO 100 to ISO 25600 via a custom function. Compact, lightweight bodyEven with the 23.6mm x 15.8mm image sensor, the K-r features a compact, lightweight, stainless-steel chassis with in-body Shake Reduction in a space-efficient design. High-speed continuous shooting at approximately six images per secondThe K-r's high-speed continuous shooting mode records as many as 25 images (in JPEG recording format) in a single sequence at a maximum speed of approximately six images per second (fastest of all entry-class models) for sharp, crisp images of fast-moving subjects. High-precision AF systemThe K-r's high-precision, wide-frame SAFOX IX autofocus system features 11 sensor points (with nine cross-type sensors positioned in the middle) for pinpoint focus on the subject. The K-r is also equipped with a spotbeam projector to assist the AF system in poorly lit locations. Accuracy and speed of contrast AF operation during Live View shooting is enhanced with a new-generation image sensor and drastic upgrading of AF algorithms. Bright, clear optical viewfinderThe Pentax-original finder optics and the renowned Natural-Bright-Matte focusing screen ensure the K-r's viewfinder offers a bright, clear subject image at 0.85X magnification and with a 96% field of view. The viewfinder offers excellent visibility even in bright outdoor locations and provides delay-free, real-time display of the subject's image. This is helpful when shutter release timing is critical such as in sports photography. The in-focus point is indicated as a red point in the viewfinder for at-a-glance confirmation. Large, easy-to-view 3-inch LCD monitor with wide-view designThe K-r features a large, high-resolution color LCD monitor with approximately 921,000 dots and its wide-view design assures a clear view of the monitor image from approximately 170 degrees horizontally and vertically, making it particularly useful in low- and high-angle applications during Live View shooting. Versatile dual-power-source designIn addition to the rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which allows the photographer to capture approximately 560 images with a single recharge, the K-r can also be powered by four AA-size batteries using optional AA Battery Holder D-BH109. Based on the Pentax in-house testing conditions conforming to the CIPA standards, using a rechargeable D-LI109 Lithium-Ion Battery. Pentax-original Shake Reduction mechanism for sharp, blur-free imagesThe K-r features the Pentax-developed SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism, which effectively compensates the adverse effect of camera shake by up to approximately four shutter steps. This innovative mechanism extends its benefits to almost all Pentax interchangeable lenses--even those designed for film-format cameras. The K-r produces sharp, blur-free images even under demanding conditions prone to camera shake, such as when using a telephoto lens, shooting in the dark without flash illumination, and shooting sunsets. Lenses compatible with this mechanism: Pentax K-, KA-, KAF-, KAF2- and KAF3-mount lenses; screw-mounted lenses (with an adapter); and 645- and 67-system lenses (with an adapter). Some functions may not be available with certain lenses. Innovative image-processing functions to produce distinctive photographic expressions(1) Custom Image function for distinctive finishing touches The K-r features the Custom Image function to allow users to select a desired finishing touch for a particular image with a choice of nine custom image modes including Bleach Bypass, which is designed to create a dramatic visual effect used in motion pictures. (2) Versatile Digital Filter function The K-r's Digital Filter function allows users to process recorded images in a variety of creative ways and produce highly creative visual expressions--without a computer. Users may choose from 18 filters, including a new Starburst, Sketch and Posterization and may now apply filter upon filter, one after another, to an image for more creative results.(3) Cross Process mode with three options The K-r features the unique Cross Process mode that automatically shifts photographic parameters for each exposure to create eye-catching images with dramatic colors (as with photographs treated with the cross process in film photography). In addition to "Random", where the results are unpredictable until the image has been processed, users now have two new options: "Preset" with three different sets of preset parameters; and "Favorite" with user-input parameters.A film development technique that uses unconventional film development to create a distinctive finish with dramatic, stylized colors. (4) Improved High Dynamic Range function The K-r features the High Dynamic Range function to create one composite image with an extra-wide gradation range from three images with different exposures without a computer. Users may choose from Auto, Standard and Expanded (at three levels) modes to accommodate different creative intentions. Auto Align functionAllows use even with handheld shooting. High-speed infrared data transmission systemThe K-r is the first Pentax digital SLR camera equipped with the IrSimple high-speed infrared data transmission system, which allows users to transfer image data to IrSimple-compatible digital devices and post their K-r images on the web via a cellular phone. This also allows users to exchange image data between two K-r cameras and play a simple match game using image Exif data (such as aperture or shutter-speed values) to judge images and offer techniques and suggestions for better images. High-quality, HDTV-proportion movie recording at 1280 x 720 pixels and at 25 frames per secondThe K-r provides a movie-recording function, which captures beautiful, true-to-life movie clips in 16:9 high-definition TV proportions (1280 x 720 pixels) at a frame rate of 25 frames per second. This extends many benefits of high-quality SLR photography to the world of movie shooting: For example, users may reduce the depth of field to make a subject stand out, or use different interchangeable lenses to create distinctive visual effects. The K-r also assures a greater possibility of visual presentation in movies--either through the application of digital filters, such as Toy Camera and Retro, to add specific visual effects during shooting, or through the use of various movie-editing functions after shooting.When the Pentax K-r's AV output terminal is used, movie clips are output at normal resolution. The data must be transferred to a PC for the playback of movie clips at high-definition TV proportions (1280 x 720 pixels). Additional Features
- User-friendly layout of essential control buttons and levers, all positioned on the camera's grip side for quick, effortless access by the photographer's right hand.
- Auto Picture mode, for effortless, automatic selection of the most appropriate shooting mode, even during Live View shooting.
- Versatile white balance control, featuring a new CTE mode designed to emphasize the dominant color components of the captured images which works best with scenes such as sunset.
- Automatic compensation of distortion and lateral chromatic aberration (available only with DA-,DFA- and FA Limited-series lenses).
- Pentax Digital Camera Utility 4 software package, with RAW-data processing and browser applications.
Brains, meet beauty. The Pentax K-r has it all. On the brain side, it's a powerful DSLR with advanced features like 12.4 Megapixels, HD video, a 2.7-inch LCD display and custom modes and functions. On the beauty side, taking photos has never looked this good. There's basic black of course. But the K-r also comes in classy white and PENTAX red, with even more body colors to come. The PENTAX K-r competes with higher-end DSLRs and looks great doing it. Now, that’s brilliantly colorful.
Product Details
- Product Dimensions: 3.8 x 2.7 x 4.9 inches ; 1.3 pounds
- Shipping Weight: 7 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
- Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S. and to APO/FPO addresses. For APO/FPO shipments, please check with the manufacturer regarding warranty and support issues.
- ASIN: B00427Z7N2
- Item model number: K-r Black 18-55mm kit
Technical Details
- 12.4-megapixel CMOS sensor; compact, lightweight body
- Kit includes 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 lens
- Widescreen 720p HD video at 25fps; powerful automatic shooting modes including Pentax Auto Picture
- 3-inch LCD with 921,000 dots of resolution; wide range of in-camera image processing and special effects filters
- Capture images and video to SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards (not included)
Customer Reviews
I have been using the KR now for almost a week so these are my initial impressions. The best way to describe this camera is a KR with several new improvements, though more evolutionary than revolutionary.
My favorite new features are the improved LCD (higher resolution), visible AF point, faster live view focusing, faster shooting at 6 FPS and faster focusing in all environments, especially in low light though with the new AF assist lamp. I cannot emphasize the AF capability in low light. The KR focuses fast, even in almost total darkness.
Another new feature is the capability to use AA batteries as well as Lithium ion. It comes with a Lithium ion battery and charger to start.
The image stabilization is still in body as Pentax has been doing for years. This allows the use of many Pentax lens and still have stabilization.
The high ISO capability with the KR is great as it is with the KX. I had a T2i and find the high ISO capability better with the KR. Plus the white balance requires less adjustment with the Pentax. It seems like I was always modifying the white balance settings with the T2i. This came as a shock to me knowing some of the white balance issues I have seen with Pentax cameras in the past.
One of the coolest new features that I really like is the capability to convert the last JPG picture taken to RAW. So let's say you take a picture and you cannot take it again (one time opportunity!) and the JPG was not up to par...You can save it as RAW and then convert in camera or in software later. This is only possible for the last JPG taken however.
The video will work in a pinch but is not the strength of this camera. It is 720P and 25 FPS with no auto focus. The T2i is better in this arena but I honestly never used it much. Despite DSLR improvements in this area (especially with the T2i), I still prefer using a camcorder.
However, the KR is a photographic tool and has lots of options once you start wanting to experiment a little more. Get it with the 55-300 lens (great lens!) if you can swing it. It is a great deal with the 2 lens kit and truly a savings versus buying it later.
Pentax is often overlooked in the DSLR arena. The KX has been a great seller for Pentax. If you have one, I would not necessarily upgrade to the KR, though some of the new features are nice. If you are looking for your first DSLR or possibly switching from another brand, I highly recommend the KR.
I chose Pentax because I already have 2 Pentax SLR bodies and wanted to be able to use my lenses. I chose the K-R over the K-X based on a lot of reading and what I thought was a good fit for me (and cost, too).
I love my new camera! I got it less than a week before a trip to Europe and am extremely satisfied with the photos I took without a chance to really learn the camera. I am a total amateur and new to digital cameras, so when I say it is easy to use - it really is.
My favorite features so far:
exceptional low-light results - I can only say WOW!
capability to use AA batteries as well as Lithium ion - I bought the AA adapter and had to use it in an emergency - so glad I had this as a back up to the lithium battery
Couple of reasons I picked this camera:
said capability to use AA batteries
stabilization in the body not in the lenses
I've taken a couple of thousand photos with it and am really pleased with the results. I'm looking forward to really learning what it can do.
