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The Pentax K-7 features a rugged, yet compact new body design, a new 14.6 megapixel CMOS sensor rebuilt from the ground up, and advanced features such as HD Movie Capture and new, unique-to-Pentax camera controls. Compatible with every Pentax lens ever made, the high-end K-7 features an abundance of long-anticipated new and improved features that are exclusive to the camera and combine to make it a tremendous photography tool.
From the Manufacturer
The Pentax K-7 features a rugged, yet compact new body design, a new 14.6 megapixel CMOS sensor rebuilt from the ground up, and advanced features such as HD Movie Capture and new, unique-to-Pentax camera controls. Compatible with every Pentax lens ever made, the high-end K-7 features an abundance of long-anticipated new and improved features that are exclusive to the camera and combine to make it a tremendous photography tool.
The most significant features of the Pentax K-7 that have never been offered before in any K series digital camera, and in some cases any camera, include:
- A compact, magnesium alloy body that is one of the smallest in the advanced photo enthusiast category to reduce bulk and allow users to travel light while maintaining durability and build quality (seven percent smaller than the K20D and up to 25 percent smaller than other cameras in the same class).
- A new 14.6 megapixel CMOS sensor rebuilt from the ground up to minimize noise, adds four channel output for fast image capture, and the ability to capture HD quality movies. It is the ideal combination of resolution and file size, allowing very large (poster size and larger) prints and cropping flexibility.
- A new 77-segment metering system quickly and accurately determines exposure for even the most complex and dynamic lighting situations.
- HD Movie capture features adjustable quality and resolution settings, aperture control, as well as mechanical Shake Reduction, and an external microphone terminal for recording stereo sound.* The K-7 will capture video at the default standard of 1280x720 resolution with a 16:9 aspect ratio (equivalent to 720p), 1536x1024 resolution with a 3:2 aspect ratio, or 640x416 resolution with a 3:2 aspect ratio (equivalent to VGA quality), all shot at 30 frames per second.
- An HDMI port with selectable output resolution (1080i, 720p, 480p, and auto) offers high resolution playback of images and video on modern high definition TV’s.
- A Dedicated AF-assist lamp further improves autofocus response and accuracy in low light conditions.
- An Electronic Level function ensures that images have truly level horizons to minimize post-capture editing.
- An innovative in-camera Lens Correction function that electronically adjusts for Distortion and Lateral Chromatic Aberrations to maximize image quality with DA series lenses.
- A dedicated Mirror Lock-up function eliminates image blur due to mirror movement during long exposures.
- A High Dynamic Range (HDR) image capture mode captures three images then combines them in camera to widen the exposure gamut to bring out detail in all exposure areas of images.
- A composition adjustment feature in Live View allows minor shifts in the framing and composition of images using the Shake Reduction mechanism without having to physically move the camera. This feature is ideal for tripod use.
- A programmable embedded copyright function preserves artistic integrity and image ownership during capture via a keypad that may record ownership in metatag data.
Pentax K7 Digital SLR Highlights
The K7's magnesium alloy body is light, durable and weather-resistant A durable, functional body, smaller than any other in its class
The K-7 is built exceptionally solid and durable with a chassis made of a highly rigid stainless-steel alloy and a housing made of a durable but lightweight magnesium-steel alloy. Construction includes 77 seals for weather, dust and cold-resistance for reliable operation even under harsh conditions and at temperatures as low as 14°F (-10°C). The camera also features a newly designed shutter unit providing a top shutter speed of 1/8000 second and the outstanding durability to withstand 100,000 shutter releases. Despite all these features, the K-7 is one of the most compact and functional photo enthusiast level models in the market.
High-quality image reproduction
The K-7 incorporates a newly developed CMOS image sensor measuring 23.4mm by 15.6mm and featuring a high-speed, four-channel image data readout. With approximately 14.6 effective megapixels, this image sensor more accurately produces fine-detailed, gradation-rich images. With the adverse effects of digital noise significantly reduced, the sensitivity may be increased from ISO 100 up to the highest level of ISO 6400 (via a custom function).
High-performance, high-speed PRIME II imaging engine
The K-7 features the newly developed PRIME (Pentax Real Image Engine) II, an upgrade of the original PRIME, as its imaging engine. This new imaging engine offers faster data-processing speed for higher quality images with richer gradation and more accurate color rendition. The system also offers high-speed movie data transmission.
A wealth of inputs--including HDMI--make it simple to share images and video captured on the K7 High-quality movie recording at 1280 x 720 pixels; 30-frames-per-second
The K-7 adds a new movie recording function, extending the benefits of SLR photography to the world of movie shooting: For instance, reduce the depth of field to make the subject stand out, or use different lenses to create distinctive visual effects. Beautiful movie clips can recorded at different sizes--640 x 416 pixels, 1536 x 1024 pixels, or 1280 x 720 pixels (16:9 high-definition TV proportions)--at a frame rate of 30 frames per second. The K-7 is also equipped with an HDMI terminal and an external microphone input terminal for high quality sound to match your videos.
Large, easy-to-view 3.0 inch wide-view LCD monitor with 921,000 dot resolution
The K-7 features a large 3.0 inch color LCD monitor with 921,000 dot resolution. The wide-view design allows the photographer to check the monitor image from approximately 170 degrees both vertically and horizontally, facilitating low and high-angle shooting using the Live View function.
High-speed continuous shooting at approx. 5.2 images per second
The high-speed continuous shooting mode captures as many as 40 images (in JPEG recording format) at a maximum speed of approximately 5.2 images per second, allowing photographers to follow the movement of an active subject or preserve a sequence of the subject’s expressions.
New 77-segment multi-pattern metering
Newly-developed for the K-7, a sophisticated 77-segment multi-pattern metering system greatly improves light-metering accuracy. By accurately analyzing various types of data (such as the image’s composition and format between upright and horizontal, and the subject’s distance and magnification) transmitted from the sensors in the camera body, this system greatly improves the accuracy of exposure control.
Live View image confirmation with Face Recognition AF and high-speed continuous shooting modes
The K-7 features the Live View function, which allows the user to view the image on the LCD monitor during shooting. This function is available not only in the Contrast AF mode, which optimizes the focus based on the subject’s contrast, but also in the Face Recognition AF mode, which automatically and accurately focuses on the subject’s face. A newly developed diaphragm-control mechanism allows the Live View function be used during Continuous Shooting mode with the mirror at lock-up position.
Optical viewfinder provides 100 percent field of view
The K-7 glass prism finder offers 100 percent field of view and an approximately 0.92X magnification to facilitate focusing and framing operations. A new Natural-Bright-Matte III focusing screen improves focusing accuracy during manual-focus operation.
3.0-inch LCD monitor with Live View New 11-point wide-frame AF sensor
The K-7’s new SAFOX VIII Plus wide-frame autofocus system features 11 sensor points (with nine cross-type sensors positioned in the middle). By adding the light source type to its data range, and driven by a greatly improved algorithm, Pentax improved the AF system assuring reliable, responsive autofocus operation superior in speed and accuracy to the previous system. The K-7 also incorporates an AF-assist spotbeam projector in its built-in flash unit to improve autofocusing accuracy in the dark.
Next-generation Shake Reduction mechanism*
The K-7 features the Pentax-developed SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism, which effectively compensates the adverse effect of camera shake by approximately 2.5 to 4 shutter stops, assuring sharp, blur-free images even under demanding shooting conditions. This innovative mechanism is compatible with all Pentax interchangeable lenses ever produced. This new-generation version allows complete shift freedom, including rotationally, of the image-sensor regardless of the camera’s inclination. The mechanism also provides user-friendly new functions such as Automatic Level Adjustment and Minute Angle Adjustment (up/down, right/left and clockwise/counterclockwise) to help photographers compose images exactly to their specifications.
* Lenses compatible with this mechanism are the 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.
New DR II mechanism to minimize dust spots
The K-7 is equipped with a newly developed Dust Removal (DR II) mechanism to more effectively remove dust and minimize spots on recorded images even after changing lenses in dust-prone outdoor settings. Using a piezo-ceramic vibration action, the system shifts or vibrates the low-pass filter located in front of the CMOS image sensor at supersonic speed to remove dust more efficiently. A unique dust-alert system also allows users to check for dust adhering to the low-pass filter prior to actual shooting.
Custom Image function to easily create desired visual effects
The K-7’s Custom Image function lets the user control the image’s finishing touch to capture their photographic intention, or reproduce the ambience of the scene. With the K-7, the user can select one of seven modes, including the new "Muted" mode designed to recreate an image with delicate, subdued colors. In addition to saturation, tone, contrast and sharpness, the function now makes it possible to adjust "key" and "contrast highlight/shadow" to the desired levels. The effects of these factors may be effortlessly confirmed on a preview image using the Digital Preview or Live View function before finalizing the settings.
Versatile exposure system for exceptional reproduction of creative intentions
Hyper Program function
The K-7’s Hyper Program function allows users to instantly switch to the Shutter- or Aperture-Priority AE mode from the Programmed AE mode, with a simple turn of the electronic dials on the grip. To return to the Programmed AE mode, simply press the green button positioned next to the shutter release button.
Hyper Manual function
When shooting in Manual mode, a single push of the green button allows the user to instantly set the proper exposure for the subject.
Sensitivity-Priority mode
The K-7 features a unique Sensitivity-Priority (Sv) mode, which is designed to automatically select the optimum combination of aperture and shutter speed for a user-selected sensitivity. The sensitivity can be shifted instantly in 1/2 or 1/3 steps by turning the electronic dial on the back panel.
Shutter/Aperture-Priority mode
Taking full advantage of the unique capability of digital cameras permitting automatic shift of sensitivity at any time, the Shutter/Aperture-Priority (TAv) mode automatically selects the most appropriate sensitivity for a user-selected shutter-speed/aperture combination. This allows the user to experiment with a greater range of photographic expressions with great ease.
Powerful rechargeable battery The K-7 is powered by a large-capacity, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which can capture approximately 980 images* when fully charged.
*Under testing conditions prescribed by Pentax, when using a rechargeable D-LI90 lithium-ion battery with no flash
Additional features:
- HDR (high dynamic range) function to create one composite image with an extra-wide gradation range from three images with different exposures
- Dynamic-range expansion function to compensate for both white-washed (overexposed) and blacked-out (underexposed) areas
- Digital level function for easy checking of the image’s levels
- Automatic compensation of distortion and lateral chromatic aberration (available only with DA- and DFA-series lenses)
- White balance control, featuring a new CTE mode to emphasize the color components of sunset scenes and a new incandescent-tinted fluorescent light mode
- Multi-exposure function, with a superimposition of already-recorded images on the LCD monitor for at-a-glance comparison
- Attachment of copyright credits on recorded images
- RAW button for single-action switching of image file format
- 16 digital filters to add a range of visual effects; a new function to record an overwritten history also available
- Color-specific control buttons/dials for easy recognition and quick access, based on the universal color design
- Pentax Digital Camera Utility 4 software package, including a RAW-data processing application (based on the popular
- SILKYPIX RAW-data processing engine developed by Ichikawa Soft Laboratory) and a browser application
PCCarpTography
Reviewed in Canada on September 8, 2024
Exactly as described by seller. This is my 2nd K7 and it feels and looks like new.I am well pleased with the camera and seller, Tokai Camera!!!
edward
Reviewed in the United States on June 3, 2013
I bought a K-7 for my wife more than a year ago. At first it work okay. Then it began to develop a long delay between when the shutter would open and when it would close. It wouldn't take a picture when this happened. Mind you this was with the standard Pentax lens and shooting in daylight with Auto or Program setting.Now, Auto won't work at all. The other presents, portrait, action, night, also don't work, and I can only get an image out of the camera when the stars align. I'm looking to take it to a shop and see what the problem might be. I image fixing it won't be worth it since it's so poorly made. I DON'T RECOMMEND IT. Get something quality: Canon or Nikon and save yourself the hassle. I shoot with those brands at work and they last and last with no problems.
KLS
Reviewed in the United States on July 16, 2010
I will first note that my first DSLR was a Pentax 200D purchased only 6 months ago. I rarely buy something and upgrade that quickly but in this case it made sense for my situation which includes getting serious about actually being more of a professional. That said I have had the K-7 for 2 weeks now and am quite pleased with just a few exceptions which is why I gave 4 stars. As so many other reviews note, what you get for the money in comparison to Canikon is amazing. The thing is built like a tank. It is hard to imagine needing more for any reason. It is unfortunate that Pentax does not get more attention especially by those who are not professionals or professionals with a limited budget. The one thing that has not been mentioned much in other reviews is the more limited availablity of lenses and accessories which probably the biggest reason Pentax does not get more attention by professionals. It is near impossible to rent a Pentax lens and the variety offered by Pentax is limited compared to Canon and Nikon. What they do make though typically gets very good reviews and I have been very happy with all the Pentax glass I have purchased. Just know that the world does revolve around Canon and Nikon before committing. I have no regrets about being a Pentaxian. It makes you feel a bit rebellious!So here are my thoughts after 2 weeks of use:PROS:* Excellent build* Feels great in your hand.* Menus are user friendly (but also see the Cons)* Faster auto focus than the 200D and better in low light* 100% viewfinder (I really appreciate seeing what I am getting)* Settings you are most likely to change on the fly can be done mechanicallyCONS* My biggest disappointment so far is that the exposure sensor does not seem to do a good job of handling situations with strong light contrast. For a camera at this level of sophistication, I would expect thesensor to be smart enough to do a better job of correctly exposing the subject even if the subject is in shadows and there is stronger light in the background.I have found that by overexposing, I can correct that but still... I would like to compare a Canon or Nikon in the same situation. I need to do some more experimenting.* Something nobody else has mentioned is the need to push a button on the program dial before you can move it. To me that is overkill and a bit of a pain. The 200D did not have itand not once did I accidentally change the setting.* Pentax threw in the kitchen sink in terms of the cameras capabilities, and therein lies the problem. While more can be good, it isn't always. There is so much available that to me would not be used by folksbuying a camera at this price point,,,,for instance all the in camera editing you can do. The capability is nice, but will I use it? No. I shoot everything in RAW and upload to a computer to do all the editing. Soin my opinion the menus would be more easily navigated if what was included made sense for this level of camera. I would have preferred they kept some of the auto exposure modes instead but in the end it is not a big deal.For the price, the camera is stellar.
Ben A
Reviewed in the United States on June 18, 2010
Update: Pentax is offering a FREE extended warranty, giving this great camera an impressive 3 year warranty (this is better than any third party "extended warranty" since it comes straight from the manufacturer). Simply email Pentax a request for the extended warranty and they will mail out a card for you to fill out. There is no indication or notice of it in the packaging, but they are offering it.As you probably know, this is Pentax's new 'top of the line' camera. Its no 1D mkIV or a D3X, but its a very good prosumer camera, and the price is right when you pair it with excellent lenses.Here's what I like a lot: it really "just works" as far as allowing you to adjust the settings you want without slowing you down. I'm still getting used to the layout, but most important functions are adjustable with the press of a button and the twist of a dial.The build quality also feels very good, and it is a nice piece of equipment to hold in your hand. While the K7 is the smallest "prosumer" camera (much smaller than the EOS 50D or 7D, or even Pentax's own K20D) I don't feel like the camera is cramped. I would like it if all four of my fingers fit on the grip, but its not uncomfortable to work with in this package (and you can get a grip to fill it out, if you're dying for that.)The basics like the viewfinder and LCD are great, the K7 has a very clear and large viewfinder- Its probably as good as you'll find on any prosumer camera. The rear LCD is bright and clear and its easy to tell if you've got the shot, you can also have the LCD display a histogram and other info. Live view is very handy, though I like it more for tripod work. Couple that with the "sensor adjust" feature that allows you to tweak the actual position of the sensor so you're shots are perfectly composed, and it makes tripod work even more inviting. The viewfinder and LCD are something you use 98% of the time so its good that Pentax got them right.The amount of image tweaking you can do is very nice, and you can read all about that in the massive 300 page manual that comes with the camera. The camera responds very quickly. I have read a review that said that they felt that it was "a step slow" but I have no idea what they are referring to. If you are constantly reviewing and jumping from the viewfinder to the LCD you may catch a delay or something, but I'd much rather focus on shooting now and reviewing later. As for the core functions(the act of getting proper exposure, locking on focus and clicking the shutter button) this thing is incredibly responsive and I have never felt held back by the technology in my hands. The shutter is like a whisper compared to the clunks and clicks of other cameras, especially if you use a high quality lens with weather seals that really locks in the sound. I kind of miss the "click" sound, but this is much less distracting for the subject. The frame rate is plenty fast for me, I'm sure only the most demanding sports shooters will wish for faster shooting. Autofocus is nice and accurate, the focus assist beam seems to do a decent job in low light situations with my DA* lens attached.The one thing that slows down the camera is shooting in video. When you switch to video mode, it takes a good second or two to flip the mirror up and open the sensor. Then there's a split second delay between pressing the shutter and the start of recording and finally after you're done recording, there is a good delay (complete with hourglass) as it processes the video and saves it. The video looks and sounds very good for a camera at this price, but its not the quick response of a dedicated video camera.If it were up to me, I would have traded the "Sv"(ISO priority) and TAv ("Hyper program") mode off the mode selecter dial and just created 3 "custom" profiles. To be fair, the camera saves your specific settings for each mode on the dial, as well as the one USER mode that you can set on the dial. But I would rather just be able to create each profile from scratch (again, just a preference, not a negative).I hope more people turn to Pentax, when they realize the price to quality, this is an excellent choice.
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