Pentax K-1 Mark II + HD FA 35mm f2.0 AL

Pentax K-1 Mark II body

36.4-megapixel imaging sensor without low-pass filter for high image sharpness

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II uses a 35.9 x 24 mm full-frame sensor with an effective resolution of 36.4 megapixels. In addition to a high dynamic range, it offers characteristics that are considered by experts to be very comparable to analog photography.

The sensor design does without an AA (Anti Aliasing) filter in order to achieve maximum image sharpness. The combination of the PENTAX Prime IV image processor and the accelerator unit, which is new in the PENTAX K-1 Mark II, ensures not only high processing speed but also optimized image processing. This becomes especially important for maintaining good quality and low noise at high sensitivities.

With a sensitivity range of ISO 100 - ISO 819200 (ISO 100 - ISO 25600 for video), the PENTAX K-1 Mark II sets new standards in this class.

Even though the maximum value is rarely used, this sensitivity range, which is unique in the class, offers a significant expansion of possibilities and makes photography a bit more independent.

Image stabilization

The positioning or stabilization of the sensor unit is done in five axes, for sensor rotation, horizontal and vertical shift, as well as a horizontal and a vertical tilt. Dragging caused by camera panning is detected and the stabilization in the panning direction is switched off.

In total, this results in an exposure margin of up to five exposure levels. The combination of a wide exposure latitude and high sensitivity of up to ISO 819,200 opens up completely new design and application possibilities.

A major advantage of the body-integrated image stabilization is the option to use old lenses with K bayonet or with adapter. This meets the current trend of getting out the old analog equipment again and creating pictures with a nostalgic image look.

Pixel Shift Resolution II

Due to the design of conventional cameras, missing RGB color information of the sensor has to be interpolated, as it is not captured by all pixels of the sensor.

With the enhanced "Pixel Shift Resolution II", all 36.4 megapixels become image effective, resulting in significantly higher sharpness and more accurate color reproduction as well as significantly lower image noise.

In the previous feature, the use of a tripod was recommended to obtain four equal exposures, per the electronic shutter. With the PENTAX K-1 Mark II and the additional "Pixel Shift Handheld" function, a tripod is no longer necessarily required, unlike the previous model. The shutter is released four times and the images of this series are calculated into one image in the camera.

The integrated image stabilization is fully available for this function. The image quality of this freehand method reaches about 70% of the classic function.

Innovative AA filter simulator

In the PENTAX K-1 Mark II, as in other PENTAX models, the use of a low-pass filter is omitted in order to achieve higher sharpness performance.

If certain subjects lead to the well-known moiré effects, the low-pass filter simulation can be switched on if required. For this purpose, the sensor unit is set into micro-vibrations to achieve minimal blurring.

Two adjustable levels and a bracketing function ensure adaptation to the corresponding shooting situation.

Sensor shift for special shooting situations

The sensor can be individually aligned horizontally and vertically in 24 steps each (1.5 mm in total) using "image framing adjustment", or by +/- 1° using horizon correction.

Thus, a slight shift or fine adjustment is possible when aligning the camera from a tripod. In addition, the horizon correction can also be done automatically.

The movable sensor is also used for the integrated astrotracer. For long-duration astrophotography, Earth rotation is compensated by moving the sensor so that stars are imaged as solid points instead of blurred streaks.

SAFOX XII autofocus system

As with the PENTAX K-1, the PENTAX K-1 Mark II uses the SAFOX XII autofocus system. The 33 measuring fields (25 of which are cross sensors) cover the center area of the viewfinder.

If you want to be really precise, you can use the focusing via the monitor with up to 3,445 measuring points. In contrast to the previous model, the AF speed of the PENTAX K-1 Mark II has been improved.

The same technology is now used here that already ensures fast focusing in the PENTAX KP.

Here, the algorithms have been improved in conjunction with the PENTAX real-time analysis system for autofocus tracking, focus speed, and focusing accuracy.

An important point of the autofocus system is the light sensitivity. For example, the working range starts at a light value of EV -3. For this purpose, three sensors in the center are designed to focus perfectly even with lenses as fast as F2.8.

Optical reflex prism viewfinder

The glass prism viewfinder displays a 100% viewfinder image with 0.7x imaging. The bright "Natural Bright Matt III" viewfinder screen offers numerous options for displaying information in the viewfinder.

For example, a spirit level for horizontal and vertical alignment or a grid matte screen can be displayed if desired. All shooting-related data is displayed below the viewfinder image.

Unique rotating and folding monitor with four special joints

The 3.2" monitor with a resolution of 1,037 million pixels has an exceptionally stable design and can be folded up 90° and down 45° by means of four special joints, as well as rotated 35° to the sides.

A special feature of this design is that the monitor remains in the optical axis. This simplifies the work, e.g. with macro photography, considerably.

For good visibility of the monitor image in bright light, a special resin has been inserted between the monitor layers, which reduces reflections many times over.

This "Air Gapless" technology and the option to change the brightness make the monitor an excellent control tool in any situation - be it with Live View when selecting the subject or for checking the finished image.

In keeping with the camera's outdoor concept, the monitor glass is specially hardened to protect it from scratches.

In the combination of prism viewfinder and display, the PENTAX K-1 Mark II offers the photographer the optimal image composition options according to the situation.

Intelligent real-time analysis system

The 86,000 pixel RGB sensor for exposure metering, in combination with the PENTAX Prime IV image processor, offers the possibility of the real-time analysis system.

This measures and analyzes brightness distribution, colors and movements to determine the correct exposure values.

Using artificial intelligence, the system learns and takes into account individual corrections made for comparable scenes in the future. But the classic exposure programs are also available.

In addition to the semi-automatic functions, program automatic with individualizable program curves can be selected.

Stable shutter design for high-speed series of shots

The shutter unit in the PENTAX K-1 Mark II enables the compact design while meeting the highest demands for durability and functionality.

Damping modules mitigate mirror shake and ensure high accuracy and low vibration up to a shutter speed of 1/8,000 sec - for far more than the tested 300,000 shots.

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II offers shooting sequences up to 4.4 frames per second at full resolution and up to 6.4 frames per second at the lower resolution APS-C format.

The maximum capacity of a sequence in the 35 mm format is 70 JPEG shots or 17 images in RAW format. With the smaller format, up to 100 JPEG and 50 RAW shots are possible.

Unique operation

As soon as you pick up the camera, you quickly become familiar with the basic functions. One dial each for time and aperture, a status monitor on the top of the housing and a large monitor on the back form the cornerstones of operation here.

The function dial with the "Smart Function", proven by the PENTAX K-1, controls important and frequently used functions. For example, light value correction is possible directly via the dial.

But functions such as bracketing, format switching or activation of Wi-Fi can also be accessed directly here.

Pressing the rear INFO button brings up the quick menu on the rear display. Many functions can also be controlled quickly here by turning a dial, and without having to dive into the menu.

And since every photographer has his or her own habits and preferences, the camera can be customized in many places. The functions in the quick menu can be changed, as can the assignment of the front and rear dials or the function of various buttons. Five user memories round off the customization function.

In addition to ease of use, clarity is also very important. Thus, a unique light concept provides light in the dark. Four LEDs on the back of the monitor or the new "Night Vision" illumination (red) illuminate the control panel as needed.

Additional lamps on the bayonet mount, in the SD card compartment or in the cable release socket improve operation in the dark. The display illumination can also be dimmed down for a dark environment and boosted for bright sunlight.

Easy and safe operation, which also includes a stable and ergonomic posture of the camera even with heavy and long focal length lenses, is a central part of the PENTAX camera concept.

The roughened grip and also the optionally available battery grip provide a secure and balanced hold.

ISO Auto, which was originally first used in PENTAX cameras, has now become a standard feature in many cameras.

In the PENTAX K-1 Mark II, this finds special significance due to the wide usable ISO range. It thus becomes not only the "last option" in exposure setting, but a valuable support when specific time/aperture combinations are required.

Compact and sturdy housing - weatherproof and dustproof

Reliability is one of the most important demands on a camera. It must function when it is needed, even in harsh climatic conditions down to -10°C and 85% humidity.

Most cameras have to stay better in the bag or with the often annoying protective covers. With the PENTAX K-1 Mark II, 87 seals on the camera provide reliable splash water and dust protection.

The body construction of metal chassis and an aluminum alloy body give the necessary stability when the camera is used in tough conditions.

And the new shutter with "floating construction" gives the security of at least 300,000 releases.

The combination of housing design, which is characterized by the TTL prism, and a classic way of working, allows absolute concentration on the subject without having to take the camera away from the eye.

Many photographers do not want to program a computer, but increasingly remember a simple, intuitive and analog operation.

In many cases they prefer to shoot "by hand" and want the camera to look and function just like its analog predecessors. And so the PENTAX K-1 Mark II is perhaps the most analog camera among the digital SLRs.

Integrated wireless LAN function

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II's wireless LAN module enables direct connection to the new ImageSync 2.0 app on a smartphone or tablet for image transfer or remote camera control.

In addition to the selection of various camera settings, Live View is of course also available. The new ImageSync 2.0 app ensures simple and intuitive handling.

Built-in GPS module and Astrotracer function

Recording the shooting location makes later archiving particularly easy. In addition, the GPS function also offers the option of recording tours for use with programs such as Google World. In combination with the movable sensor, the Astrotracer function offers compensation of the earth's rotation for astrophotography up to approx. 30 minutes.

Individual image composition using various shooting set ups and filters

With the PENTAX K-1 Mark II, shooting starts with the "film selection". According to the subjects, the basic image characteristics are selected.

From "Luminous" to "Portrait", "Reversal Film" to "Black & White", 12 presets can be selected that mimic the look of various classic films.

Each of these basic presets can be additionally modified to individually adjust color, contrast or sharpness, for example. In addition, nine different filters are already available for recording, and for post-processing there are 21 filters with 44 setting parameters and over 200 options.

Furthermore, it is possible to develop the 14-bit RAW images directly in the camera. In addition to adjusting many shooting parameters, the filters can also be used here. The images can then be saved as TIFF or JPEG files.

Full HD video recording

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II allows you to record video clips in Full HD resolution (1,920 x 1,080 pixels, 60i / 30p frame rate) in H.264 recording format.

Audio is recorded from the built-in stereo microphone (or a separately available external microphone). The recording level can be monitored manually via an integrated headphone jack.

For special effects, the PENTAX K-1 Mark II offers the Interval Movie function. This records short movie clips in the interval function and combines them into a time-lapse movie in 4K resolution (3,840 x 2,160 pixels).

A number of recording filters are also available for video recordings.

Pentax HD FA 35mm f2.0 AL

Since the analog film days, the smc PENTAX-FA35mm F2AL lens has been one of the classics in the PENTAX lens range. The impressive optical quality of this compact all-rounder is now further enhanced by the new multi-layer HD (High Definition) coating. In the new HD PENTAX FA35mm F2AL, the HD coating on all optical elements produces higher-contrast images right into the corners of the image and reduces flare and ghosting. In addition, the front lens is now equipped with the dirt-repellent SP (Super Protect) coating. The body design has been changed and adapted to the current lens series.

HD coating for ideal light transmission and minimal reflection

The lens elements of this lens feature the multi-layer HD (High Definition) coating developed by PENTAX, which offers significantly higher light transmission with low reflection compared to conventional coatings. This enables maximum contrast and sharpness without flare and ghosting even in difficult conditions such as backlighting.

SP coating to prevent soiling of the front lens

Beyond the HD coating, the front lens of the lens is equipped with SP (Super Protect) coating, which protects against grease or water and makes cleaning easier. Especially when used in adverse outdoor conditions, this is an important quality feature.

Hybrid aspherical lens elements

Thanks to the use of hybrid aspherical elements, particularly clear images with high contrast are produced from the minimum focusing distance to infinity and from edge to edge even at open aperture.

Universal standard lens

When used on KB full-frame cameras, this lens offers a moderate wide-angle focal length of 35 mm, and when used on APS-C format cameras, it achieves the image effect of a standard lens with a focal length of approximately 53 mm. This corresponds to a natural perspective and thus the lens can be used very universally. Snapshot, landscape or portrait photography are just a few areas for which the lens is suitable. The minimum focusing distance of 30 cm underlines the universal usage possibilities.

Design in the look of the current DA and DFA series

With a short overall length of just under 45 mm and a weight of 193 g, the lens is very light and compact and therefore predestined as a standard lens that can be used on many occasions. Unlike the previous smc PENTAX-FA35mm F2AL, the new lens has been given the design of the DA and DFA series to match the current PENTAX product line-up. However, the aperture ring is retained in the new design. This increases the possibilities for use also on analog cameras, which are currently experiencing a small renaissance again.

• 35 mm universal focal length when used with the PENTAX K-1/ PENTAX K-1 Mark II
• 53 mm standard focal length when used with PENTAX cameras with APS-C sensor
• HD coating for sharper and more brilliant images
• SP coating to prevent greasy residue on the front lens
• Aspherical lens elements to eliminate aberrations
• KAF bayonet for use on all cameras with PENTAX bayonet