Pentax is renowned in photography, producing high-quality cameras and optical equipment. Originally founded in 1919 as Asahi Optical Joint Stock Co., Pentax has a long history of innovation and expertise in the imaging industry.
Pentax gained popularity for its film cameras, specifically in the 35mm SLR category. The company released various models over the years, including the Spotmatic and K-series cameras, which gained recognition for their durable construction, advanced features, and exceptional image quality. I have a K-1000 that my son gifted me when he went on a trip and found it in an antique store.
In 1960 the first Pentax Spotmeter, also known as the Pentax Spotmeter V, was introduced. This meter became popular among professional photographers due to its precision and ease of use. In 1977, Pentax introduced the Digital Spotmeter, which is still popular amongst large format photographers like myself.
With the advancement of digital photography, Pentax successfully transitioned into the digital era by launching a range of digital SLR cameras. They introduced their inaugural medium-format digital camera, the Pentax 645D, in March 2010. The camera features a 40MP, 44 mm × 33 mm CCD sensor, and later, in February 2014, the 51.4MP CMOS sensor 645Z was announced.
The Pentax K-1 Mark II DSLR, with its 36.4MP and Pixel Shift Resolution II technology, is very popular amongst enthusiastic prosumers. You cannot go wrong shooting with a Pentax.
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MAMIYA CAMERAS
Mamiya cameras have a rich history among both professional and amateur photographers. I first encountered Mamiya cameras when I began my career in wedding photography during the film era. While the Mamiya 645 was popular, I ultimately chose the Hasselblad 6×6 format. Later, I acquired an RB67 Pro SD but found it too heavy to carry and passed it on to an assistant. I shot with an RZ67 Pro IID and a Phase One P45 when medium-format digital became practical. While the RZ was excellent for film or tethered shooting in the studio, I passed it on to a ‘film-only photographer’ after a few frustrating portrait shoots. Live View has made focusing on the RZ much easier, as with my old film Hasselblads. You cannot go wrong with Mamiya film cameras and lenses; they still hold a special place in my heart and camera bag.