Amazon.com Product Description

One of the most compact cameras in its category, the IQZoom 170SL weighs only 7.4 ounces but combines powerful features to make it versatile for any photo situation. The 38-170mm zoom lens can magnify the image up to 4.5 times, giving you a wide range of shooting options.

The passive autofocus system ensures sharp and clear photos, even when subjects are in typically difficult positions, like off center or behind a window. The autoexposure and autoflash keep subjects well exposed and properly lit so that perfect smile won't be lost because faces were backlit by the sun or the room was too dark.

The large LCD panel gives the user all the important information about the camera's current operating modes, so you can easily and quickly adjust controls to your needs. Film handling is completely automatic--from loading to advancing to rewinding.

You can switch from standard to panorama format midroll to get that extra-wide shot. The 10-second self-timer is always useful for self-portraits or group photos. You can also imprint the date or day and time onto your photographs to remember when that picture was taken. To conserve battery energy, the camera automatically shuts off after three minutes of no use. ... Read more

Features

• 35mm compact point-and-shoot
• 38-170mm 4.5x zoom lens with autofocus
• Multi-mode flash features red-eye reduction
• Automatic film loading, advance, and rewind
• Passive 5-point autofocus system

Reviews (8)

Clear, Clear, Clear!!!
The pictures are just incredible! Excellent!

Did I get the same camera?
I was recently forced to shop for a new camera when my Vivitar PZ8000 broke down after years of clear, quality pictures. My main goal was to find a camera that could produce consistently clear pictures. Plus, it has to be simple. I don't like to spend a lot of time analyzing the light, etc. I want to be able to grab the camera, turn it on, and quickly take a picture. So when I saw the other reviews for the Pentax IQZoom 170SL, I thought I had found the camera I was looking for. Everyone raved about the clarity, the zoom and the simplicity of this camera. It seemed perfect, so I bought it.

Now I'm left wondering if I got the same camera as the other reviewers. I've taken 5 or 6 rolls of film with very mixed results. Maybe 25% of the pictures are beautifully clear, as I had hoped and expected. Landscapes turned out better than the rest. About 50% of the pictures were average and basically acceptable. But then about 25% of the pictures were terrible, especially those with people as the main focus. I took an entire roll of film at my brother's wedding, and all but a handfull are so blurred that the people are almost unrecognizable. And I don't just mean that the people were blurring, the entire photo was bad.

There are a lot of flash options, etc. on the camera, and maybe I just haven't figured out when to use the features. And I'll be the first to admit that I'm not especially careful at setting everything up. But I've never had this problem with other cameras. Unfortunately, I waited too long to return the camera because I kept hoping that the pictures would improve. I'm planning on selling it. This camera left me so disappointed that I don't trust it to capture the memories of my vacations, etc.

EXCELLENT POINT AND SHOOT CAMERA..
I bought this camera just in time for my son's birthday party. I don't even have to see the manual to use this camera.. it's just a breeze too operate. The camera felt just right on my hand, lightweight and just at the right size (compared with my previous Pentax IQ-200 which is too bulky and heavy looking).
I used the Kodak 400 spd and the result came out absolutely beautiful.. the color is vibrant and not blurry at all. No more red eyed and dark picture. Definetely worth the money spend!! I will recommended this camera to everyone..
Thanks Pentax..

Takes a beating
Pentax point and shoots are extremely reliable cameras, and this one has more zoom than many SLR zoom kits come with! They are also very durable. While playing with one at the camera store that I work at, I dropped it on my foot! I picked it up, dusted it off, and still worked just fine. Just be careful not to knock into things when you have your zoom extended!

One word of warning: with so much zoom you have to be careful not to outshoot your flash. Zoom in to your heart's delight outdoors in bright sunlight but under low light keep in mind that your flash is only good for up to about 10 feet. You should be fine shooting with a nice 400 speed film in most lighting situations, I recommend Fuji.

A wonderful camera for taking pictures of kids!!!!
This camera is amazing!! The zoom range is more than adequate for amateur use and is perfect for taking pictures of my kids. I can get those close ups without getting so close up that they stop what they're doing to look at me like with other cameras. I've taken pictures of them across the room and I've also used it at a football game to zoom in on my nephew scoring a touchdown. I can see the expression on his face all the way from the stands! All of the pictures are beautiful, and the zoom helps eliminate photos that have all that unwanted "junk" around the subject. This helps the pictures look more professional and less amateur like. I use Kodak 800 Speed film because using the zoom with lower speed films can sometimes make the pictures darker than I like.

Some of my favorite photos of my kids are when they weren't expecting me to take their pictures--this camera is worth the money for the memories it will keep. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Though the Pentax ZX-M SLR camera shares its compact dimensions and easy-to-use features with the Pentax ZX series, this model lets you switch from a completely automatic mode to a completely manual mode. In addition to the user-friendly features, this camera incorporates a wide variety of functions, including a multimode exposure system, an advanced light-metering system, and a 1/2000-second high-speed shutter. The Pentax ZX-M uses the Pentax A-series manual focus lenses, the FA- and F-series autofocus lenses, as well as a wide range of optional accessories to satisfy the photographer's creative needs.

With its four exposure modes: Aperture-Priority AE, Shutter-Priority AE, Metered Manual, and Programmed AE, you can give this camera as much or as little control over your pictures as you want. You can use the Programmed AE for those shots that you want exposed with no guesswork on your part, while Aperture-Priority AE and the Shutter-Priority AE give you partial control over the shot. Or, for complete control, switch to the manual mode and capture the shot exactly the way you want it.

The Pentax ZX-M lets you check the depth-of-field for a given aperture with just the push of a button. This feature ensures that your picture will have the visual effect that you want, before you take the shot. You can even use this feature when the camera is set in automatic mode. The external LCD viewfinder display features the Pentax Natural-Bright-Matte focusing screen, which gives you a sharp, clear image and lets you confirm all of your settings with just a glance. ... Read more

Features

• Manual focus SLR is ideal for photography students
• Manual and programmed AE exposure
• Electronic depth-of-field preview
• DX and manual ISO settings
• Accepts all Pentax mount lenses

Reviews (8)

it's just plain great!
i have had this camera for about a year and i am yet to take a bad picture with it. it does lack a flash though and the lense that mine came with did not have auto-focus, so it is a camera for those who are into serious photography. it does have many automatic settings though, so it is easy to use overall. i hope that other people enjoy this camera as much as i have.

Pentax ZX-M does have a self-timer
This camera does have a self-timer.

Best SLR for the money!
The ZX-M is a solid camera with almost every feature you will need. I've owned it for almost 2 years and the only complaint I have is that it needs a flash or it is almost useless indoors, so be prepared to buy one and carry it around. It also lacks date imprinting if you're into that. It is a great camera though and is otherwise pert-near perfect!

I love my Pentax
I love my Pentax ZX-M. I bought it a little over 2 years ago because I was a beginner and thought I should start with a manual focusing camera and also because it fell into my price range. I've loved every bit of my camera. It's easy to use, takes great photographs, is light enough to carry around your neck, loads film very easy, and has understandable features. One problem I've had is finding a lense that will fit my camera. From what I understand is that I need a lense with a K mount and those have been a little difficult for me to come by. And another problem that I found is the bulb attachment was a tad bit on the expensive side [all because it was electronic]. Other than that, I love my Pentax. It's definately a great camera for beginners!

Nice
I have had this camera since October is it consistantly gets better with time. I am used to using a Pentax MS-super which was a very basic straight forward camera. The MZ-M is exactly like the ME-super except a more up to date version with some hand electronic features and more options. I enjoy this because a transition for me between my old camera and this camera was very simple. The largest bonus with this camera is that all old and new lense footings will fit beautifully.

The one downside is that it does not have a built in flash like all other Pentax M series cameras. I did a lot of research into buying this camera and less than the price of the next model up (which does offer a few other non flash related bonus' but nothing major) you could buy a nice interchangable Pentax Flash to go with your camera.

Over all this camera is fantastic and I have zero complaints. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The best reason to get the fully automatic Pentax IQ Zoom 160 QD is for its state-of-the-art, ultrapowerful, and ultraclear 38-160mm zoom lens. This is one of the longest zoom lenses available on a 35mm point-and-shoot, making it a very versatile camera for travel, portraits, and everyday use. The body is ergonomically designed with a "slide-out" flash (includes red-eye reduction) that pops out of the side of the camera the moment you turn on the power, and the lens fully retracts to protect it when you shut off the camera. If you forget to shut off the power, the lens will retract to its original position anyway to protect it.

The IQ Zoom 160 QD features a five-point passive autofocus system that produces extremely sharp pictures, even in difficult focusing circumstances such as through a window. You can also take extreme close-up shots with its full-range macro capabilities for great pictures at any focal length. It is excellent in tough lighting situations as well, thanks to a six-segment multipattern metering system that takes incredibly accurate exposure measurements. The automatic backlight compensation feature lets you know when your main subject requires increased light, too.

This compact camera is designed to be very easy to operate. It includes a user-friendly mode dial that you simply twist to turn the power on or off and to select your desired flash mode. It is also easy to switch to panorama mode, and you can even create double exposures by using the multiexposure mode. In addition, the IQ Zoom 160 QD features an "actual image" viewfinder with automatic LCD parallax compensation for a precise framing area, an adjustable diopter so you can adjust the viewfinder to match your eyesight, and a large, easy-to-read LCD instruction panel that displays the vital information pertinent to each exposure. Other nice features include an optional remote control and date imprinting. ... Read more

Features

• Powerful 38 to 160mm zoom lens
• Passive 5-point autofocus, 6-segment metering
• Built-in flash with red-eye reduction
• 10-second self-timer and date imprinting feature
• LCD corrected viewfinder

Reviews (12)

Incredible Pictures
On a recent trip to the Rocky Mountains, my family and I were simply stunned by the amazing snowy landscapes. I couldn't help but think that the pictures I was taking would not be able to capture the experience. I was wrong. The Pentax (which I had bought specifically for the trip) produced top quality pictures. The 160 Zoom feature was handy for capturing the action of my kids on the slopes while I stayed at the lodge :) I was especially impressed with the Pentax's ability to handle the tricky lighting conditions that snow produces.

I gave this camera the highest rating for the simple fact that it is extremely easy to use and takes amazing pictures. When I am ready to upgrade I will definitely buy another Pentax.

"Functions like a Rolls Royce in my hands!"
This will be quick and simple. Buy it! This is the finest point and shoot camera I've ever owned. The zoom is just long enough to be extremely helpful, and is smooth and tight! I can't imagine using all the functions on this camera, but it's nice to know they're available.

The newer Pentax cameras of this type appear to lose some of the features this one has, and certainly do not maintain the look and quality feel of this one.

Great camera with SLR like features
This camera was bought for me as a gift after extensive research by the giver. And boy am I glad he did his research. This camera does it all! Great ease of use, but lots of versatility. You can just take that quick, simple shot or you can create art with multiple exposures and long shutter times. With a tripod and the remote, the possibilities are endless with this camera.

Clear pictures!
I have never had a better camera. I have found that Kodak 800 film works the best for this camera. The camera automatically adjusts to the lighting and has excellent outcome in the pictures. This camera is VERY easy to use. I choose it over an SLR. Great for anywhere, anytime, and especially anyone.

Good camera, but one complaint...
No reason to not like this camera. It performs wonderfully and I've gotten some great results from it.

The only problem is that it drains the battery like an alcoholic on a bender drains his liquor cabinet. If you take the camera with you on a trip or something be sure you have a fresh battery in it and a couple of spares.

Also, the dial that turns it off and on can too easily be moved by the slightest brushing against any case you put the camera in. Too many times I have turned the camera off and put it in its case, only to find out later that the on/off dial got messed with and the camera was turned on and the battery drained. Not a flaw, exactly, but something to be careful with when handling the camera or putting it away. ... Read more

Features

• Five selectable picture modes
• Auto exposure bracketing
• Programed AE, Av & Tv Mode, Metered manual modes
• SAFOX V TTL auto focus system
• TTL auto pop-up flash w/red-eye reduction

Reviews (2)

Pentax MZ-60 (non-US version)
I purchased the MZ-60 model which is simply a renamed ZX-60. This camera, contrary to the previous review, will use manual lenses but only in manual mode. I have used manual focus lenses with no "A" aperture setting with this camera - you can also fake having depth-of-field preview with automatic-aperture lenses by slightly unscrewing the lense and moving to your desired aperture setting. The light metre will still function this way in manual mode.

Firstly my gripes - the viewfinder information is very basic not unlike that of an older manual camera. Exposure is indicated by a plus or minus sign, but there is no shutter speed or aperture figures indicated. These are only shown on the LCD panel, which in dark conditions is difficult to see.

Secondly there is no exposure compensation dial, so if you wish to increase or decrease exposure outside of the meter's suggested setting you'll have to take it into manual mode.

Thirdly there is no cable-release socket BUT this is not a terrible ommision as you can set the shutter to open after 2 seconds AND the very good news is it locks-up the mirror immediately, then waits two seconds before exposing the film.

Metering is two segment, but I am unsure if this is a fancy name for centre-weighted metering. It seems to expose for the darker subject if faced with a contrasting subject & background. No multi-segment metering but it's a very easy metering system to predict!

Be very careful with dust with this unit as a small moth has managed to get up above the focusing screen. It is definately constructed mostly of plastic so don't use this camera as a football as you may not like taking photos with a smashed camera. Admittedly the buttons are a little bit cheap-feeling and it's very easy to switch the camera off without realising it due to it's position - but just remember it's Pentax's budget offering.. just because the buttons may not feel terribly solid doesn't mean you can't produce exactly the same photograph than a more expensive camera (in most 'normal' cases).

For the price I would recommened this camera to anybody who's familiar with using a manual camera but hates not having autofocus. The focusing isn't the fastest around but I'd much rather save a lot of money now than having my camera focus a few 10th's of a second quicker.

Decent camera, but not compatible with manual lenses
I purchased this camera to replace an old Pentax ME, but I had to promptly return it, as it is not compatible with older Pentax manual lenses. While it seems to be a quality camera, it will only be useful to you if you have autofocus lenses. Though the price is atractive this will probably not be the best camera for a student for just this reason. In the future I will likely buy the Pentax ZX-5N instead. ... Read more

Features

• 38-105mm zoom lens
• Active infrared autofocus
• Built-in flash with red-eye reduction
• Automatic film loading, winding, and rewinding with midroll rewind
• Auto backlight light metering

Reviews (2)

Good All Purpose Camera
Got this 105G with QD back in Nov.2000. Pictures taken have been sharp and clear. In sunny conditions taking still pictures with Fuji 100 film provided brilliant, vivid colors. Just hope this one will be as reliable as my last IQ ZOOM100 which lasted 6 years and traveled all over the globe before it was stolen. To a previous reviewer: The viewfinder focus can be adjusted using the diopter adjustment dial. At about 10oz. with battery, this camera is NOT heavy at all.

Likes: Good, solid construction. The zoom movement, shutter action, and auto lens cover closure all convey a sense of quality materials and good mechanical design, unlike some minoltas and olympus cameras I've compared with.

Minor dislikes: on/off button right next to shutter release button. Zoom lever at an awkward position not like the old models where the zoom is integrated with the shutter release button, i.e., one finger to zoom AND snap picture. The accompanying case is TOO SMALL...can barely fit one extra roll of film in there...I suggest get a leather case. I got this camera at a really good deal so I shouldn't complain!

Overall, a good value in an "aim and shoot" camera.

crisp, clear images
This camera has excellent ability to capture fine details. I was able
to stand at the base of a cathedral, aim the camera up, and take a
picture of the architectural details at the very top of the cathedral
- that's probably some five stories up. .... The drawbacks were that this camera was quite heavy, and
the image from the eyepiece was always blurry for some odd reason.
... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Pentax IQ Zoom 140M QD 35mm camera is incredibly compact--at aheight of 2.6 inches it's just a little taller than a roll of 35mm film. Yet ithas a powerful 38-140mm zoom that makes your pictures bigger, closer, and moredetailed than most compacts in its class. The "actual image" viewfinder lets yousee the image size in relation to the zoom ratio, providing a concise preview ofthe finished photo no matter which of the two available print formats--standardand panorama--you use. Switch back and forth between the two formats as often asyou like to capture close-ups or the whole landscape.

In spot AF mode, you can keep your subject in focus even when it's in thebackground and/or other subjects are in the foreground. The six-segmentmultipattern metering provides flawless exposure for any lighting condition. Thebuilt-in, fully automatic flash has five modes to illuminate your subjectperfectly: flash on, flash off, slow shutter sync, bulb sync with or withoutflash for special effects, and bulb (night mode), for great pictures in anylighting condition. Red-eye reduction is also included.

This camera has several features that allow you to shoot worry-free pictures.The fail-safe film loading function loads and advances your film automatically.The high-precision, passive five-point autofocus system ensures sharp pictures,even when shooting through windows. When left unused for three minutes with thepower on, the camera retracts the lens to the wide-angle position to protect itfrom damage, and then shuts itself off completely. The LCD panel gives youeasy-to-see readings on frame counter, zoom, flash modes, self-timer, remotecontrol, shooting modes, date/time stamp, and battery level, so you always knowwhat your camera settings and levels are. ... Read more

Features

• Powerful 38-140mm zoom lens
• Passive 5-point autofocus
• Built-in flash with red-eye reduction
• Automatic film loading, winding, and rewinding with midroll rewind
• 10-second self-timer, date imprinting, and panorama mode

Reviews (5)

Great price, Great Pictures, Great Camera
I bought this camera after reading other reviews and looking on Consumer Reports.com. I was not dissapointed. This camera takes great pictures, is easy to use, and has an excellent zoom.

Great camera
This is a great camera. I've taken lots and lots of pictures with it-like over 2000. It really comes up with some fantastic shots. I like the lightweight. It's got a great long distance zoom lens that's fast. Indeed, it shoots like an expensive 35mm. The only drawback is it's macro ability. It does shoot up to about 2.6 feet which is pretty close, and for most shots this is enough. Really, in the majority of situations, it comes up with some wonderful shots that are very clear and great!

Great camera, exceptional features,excellent photo quality
I've had this camera for a couple of years now and it has been a really great purchase. The picture quality is extraordinary. I often have people asking me what kind of camera I have because my pictures are so great. (i'd like to think it's my skill at picture taking but it really is the camera) I would highly recommend getting the optional remote, it has come in very handy when taking skyline pictures and other night pictures that require the camera to be very still. I've even used this camera to take some wedding pictures for some friends of mine. A lot of my pictures came out better than the professional camera !!! The price may seem somewhat high for those looking for a simple camera, however I found the quality to be well worth the price.

a great camera
I love this camera, its easy to use and carry.

Great Camera Value for Money
If u are looking for a Medium range Camera Go for This Camera. It has a Good Panaromic Mode for Photographing Skylines and Wide angles. The Controls Are Cool. A Bit Bulky But u can accept it for the way it shoots Pictures. Picture Quality is Crystal Clear. I have shot with this camera the Niagara Falls and It came Great. I strongly recommend this Camera if u are looking for more features at a reasonable price. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Encased in a compact, low-profile body, the Pentax Espio 140V features a 38-140mm (3.7X) zoom lens and a host of user-friendly features including high-quality optics and a protective, stylish sliding lens cover. Other features include a responsive five-point autofocus system, multi-function auto zoom flash, an actual-image zoom viewfinder with diopter adjustment, and a multi-data LCD panel. This Espio 140V Date model automatically records the date, or day and time, of shooting on the photograph.

The Espio 140V offers a high-performance Pentax zoom lens with Super-Multi-Coating, which incorporates two aspherical elements in its eight-element/six-group optics to deliver high-quality images. It also features the Pentax-developed Switchover Zoom system, which contributes to the camera’s compact size and allows the lens to switch effortlessly from wide-angle to telephoto. ITs zoom macro capability assures pinpoint focus on a subject as close as 2.62 feet at 38mm wide angle or 3.77 feet at 140mm telephoto.

The passive autofocus system assures pinpoint focus even from a distance or through window glass. The five-point wide focus frame keeps the subject in perfect focus at any focal length, even when it is positioned off-center or two subjects are standing apart.

The built-in auto zoom flash automatically provides fill-in illumination and adjusts the angle of discharge in proportion to the selected focal length. A red-eye reduction mode minimizes this annoying effect, and the soft-flash function lowers the discharge level to avoid over-exposure in close-up photography.

Other features include:

• Multi-data LCD panel offers a wide range of useful information at a glance.
• Actual-image zoom viewfinder with diopter adjustment
• built-in electronic self-timer delays shutter release by 10 seconds
• Zoom lens automatically retracts to the shortest wide-angle position to avoid damage after 3-minutes of non-use

The camera measures 4.8 x 2.4 x 1.7 inches and weighs 7.4 ounces. It is powered by one 3V lithium battery (CR123A type). This package includes the Espio 140V 35mm Date Camera, strap, and manual ... Read more

Features

• Compact 35mm camera with 38-140mm (3.7X) zoom lens
• Macro capability as close as 2.62 feet at 38mm or 3.77 feet at 140mm
• Five-point autofocus system, actual-image zoom viewfinder with diopter adjustment
• Built-in auto zoom flash automatically provides fill-in illumination
• Includes strap

Reviews (2)

disappointed
Why do they call this a ultra-compact camera? I was really disappointed when I open the box and found out how large the camera actually is! It's twice as big as my old one, which I'd wanted to replace, and while it's lightweight, it's awkward to hold, and the lens covar is difficult to slide. I don't know if it takes good pictures, but the size is terrible. These days people expect small. I'm returning it and buying one that I know is small, yet still has all the great features, the Fujifilm Zoomdate 1300.

Great camera
I did a lot of research before purchasing this camera. I was told at a camera shop that Pentax and Minolta take the best pictures for a point and shoot camera. I was going to buy a Nikon, but was told that Nikon doesn't even make their own point and shoot cameras. Another company makes them and they put the Nikon name on their point and shoot camera. This Pentax camera has a neat feature. As the camera zooms in and out, the flash adjusts so that if you're shooting a close-up, the camera won't put too much light on the subject. I took the camera to a Nascar race and used 200 speed film. The pictures came out great. The only problem I had with my order is that the product description indicates that this camera comes with a case and a battery, however, this camera did not. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Pentax IQZoom EZY-R is a simple point-and-shoot camera thatautomatically adjusts focus and exposure for clear results. You can bring yoursubjects closer with the 38-70mm zoom lens, and distant scenery is clearlycaptured with the infinity landscape mode.

The IQZoom EZY-R includes otherautomatic features such as focus, exposure, load, and rewind with midrollrewinding possible. The flash provides on/off options, daylight synch, slowshutter synch, bulb synch, and red-eye reduction. It also providesbacklight compensation with automatic discharge under low lightconditions.

The 10-second self-timer gives you time to get in the picture. The IQZoom EZY-R also has a power-off feature that turns off the camera afterthree minutes of inactivity to save power and help protect the lens. ... Read more

Features

• Fully automatic 35mm camera
• 38 to 70mm zoom for versatility
• Fits naturally in your hand and slips into your pocket
• Built-in flash with red-eye reduction
• Infinity landscape mode for shooting distant scenery

Reviews (8)

Oh so good
I've been taking pictures with a Canon Elan 7 and am convinced you cant find a better camera. The only problem with it is that its not the best camera to take with you everywhere, on week long backpacking trips, etc. Which is why point and shoots come in handy. The Pentax EZY-R was my choice 4 years ago, and until last week it was the toughest most remarkable little camera I'd ever seen. The image quality was among the highest P&S quality Ive ever seen. Over the 4 years I dropped it to the bottom of a lake, it fell out of a car, and survived taking pictures for 6 months in Tanzania, Africa. By the end the pictures taken in Africa were some of my best, even with the Elan 7 that I also had with me. If you're expecting a super zoom with all the fancy gadgets, put some money into it, and learn how to take a picture. For a 60 dollar camera you cant beat it. So when mine just broke, I found the exact same camera, (without date, because it is annoying when it resets the data on you) for 30 dollars. If it doesnt stand up to the first I'll let you know. Like anything else, you could get a fluke, but if you dont it could be the best valued camera you'll ever find.

Ditto the Charleston, WV reviewer!
I had the same problems as the reviewer from Charleston. The date on the camera is always resetting itself to 1994--frequently when I'm mid-roll. VERY annoying, especially if you don't notice for a few pictures. The film advance and auto-rewind don't always work, either. More than once I've thought the film was done, and it made all the appropriate noises to sound like it was rewinding, and then POP! You open the case, and the film has not rewound. I've lost more than one roll of film this way.

I haven't had any problems with blurry pictures--the photo quality has been quite good, and I've gotten many compliments on the photos. But the date reset and the film advance & rewind problems are disturbing enough that I would not recommend this camera. I'm currently shopping for a new one

I wish I had spent a little more.
The only reason I am generous enough to give this camera a "3" is because it is my own fault for not spending more and getting a better camera to begin with.

When my son was born 15 months ago, I wanted a simple camera that I didn't have to fool around with. My husband has a nice SLR, so I didn't want to spend a lot of money on a second camera. Now 15 months later, I wish I had. My basic complaints: focus not great; film advance is horrendous (I usually have to cut the film at different angles just to make the camera advance it); centering subjects is often a pain.

Needless to say, I am going out this weekend and buying a new camera. I wish that I had listened to what my father always told me: "Buy the best you can in the beginning. You'll be thankful later."

We use this a lot!
I bought this camera for my daughter, but it has quickly become the family camera. It's lightweight, easy to tote around, easy to use. 400 speed film or greater is a must, as anything slower results in slightly blurry pictures. I like all the different features for adjusting the flash and red eye settings, and using the automatic timer. We have not had any mechanical or electronic problems, and batteries for this camera are not expensive.

This is the worst camera I have ever purchased!
I've had a terrible experience with this camera. I've only had it for four months and it's already broken. Let me just say that it never worked well to begin with. At least 1/3 of my pictures are not in focus. I thought that it was just me holding the camera improperly, but I set the camera on a stationary surface and used the timer to take the picture. The picture was still not in focus. The date is forver resetting to 1994, and the last straw happened today when I opened the camera to remove the roll of film which I thought was finished, but it never advanced at all. When I opened the camera, the film was jammed in the take up spool and a square piece of plastic fell off of the back of the cover.

After doing some research, I went out and bought an Olympus Stylist. I hope that Pentax will honor their product and refund my money. Heaven knows that the IQ Zoom is a worthless piece of junk. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The user-friendly mode dial of the Pentax IQ Zoom 160 camera lets you turn the power on and off, as well as select the mode you want--including panorama--with just a twist of the dial. It has a large, easy-to-read LCD instruction panel that displays all of the camera's settings and indicators. The actual-image zoom viewfinder switches from standard view to panorama, so you can see exactly what your image will look like when you switch from one format to the other. Even difficult shooting situations are no problem thanks to the five-point passive autofocus system and the six-segment multipattern metering system.

The large LCD instruction panel is easy-to-read and automatically lights up so, whether it's day or night, you can see the all of the information you need to operate the camera, including: exposure counter, battery exhaustion warning, panorama, infinity-landscape, spot AF, flash-on, flash-off, red-eye reduction, self-timer, and multiexposure.

Employing automatic LCD parallax compensation, the actual-image viewfinder is able to display the framing area with precision. If you want to capture the whole scene, you can switch to panorama mode--even in midroll. The IQZoom 160 automatically provides a view of the new panorama area via the viewfinder. It gives you several indicators, including: focus and flash status, infinity-landscape mark, panorama-format picture area, close-distance compensation frame, five-point AF frame, and spot AF frame. This viewfinder also has an adjustable diopter, which allows you to adjust the image to match your eyesight.

Conditions that would normally "fool" a camera, like shooting through a glass window or an off-center subject, come out perfectly focused with the IQZoom 160's phase-matching five-point passive autofocus system. Even difficult lighting situations are no problem with the help of the highly accurate six-segment multipattern metering system. It measures the current lighting conditions, ensuring that your images get optimum exposure, no matter the conditions. The automatic backlight compensation feature fires the flash during backlight conditions to properly expose the subject.

You can zoom in to catch subtle details of your subject, or zoom out to capture the entire scene with the 38-160mm power zoom lens. Even when you forget to turn the power off, the IQZoom 160 retracts the lens to the original position to protect it against damage. The multiexposure mode lets you flex your creative muscles by allowing you to combine two or more exposures on a single frame. ... Read more

Features

• Actual-image zoom viewfinder with diopter adjustment
• Switch between standard view and panorama at any time
• Five-point passive autofocus system properly exposes the subject
• Automatic backlight compensation
• Multiexposure mode lets you combine two or more exposures on a single frame

Reviews (3)

Professional Quality photos
I took this camera to England in the fall when the sun barely shown, and to Hawaii, in perfect light for photographs, and I was amazed at how well my pictures came back. I am a professional with this camera! It is very easy to focus precisely on your subject, and the zoom is incredibly powerful in a point and shoot camera.

I have framed many of my photos as art work in my home. I have also taken many macro shots of stones, flowers, cactus, and even a glass marble with a tiny dove inside of the marble.

The camera took amazing macro photos!

Okay, but not great
I've had this camera for several years, and almost immediately regretted not getting another Olympus. The clarity just isn't there, and the whole camera moves when you push the button to take a picture. It's just about impossible to get a clear picture without using a tripod. I also found its light sensitivity to be off - it uses the flash more often than not even when there should be enough light without it. Oh, and the red eye is terrible, even (or especially) with the red eye reduction flash. I've never been able to get the spot auto focus to use when using the zoom, either. Somehow it also got a speck of dust on the inside lens rather quickly and when I took it to a camera repair shop they told me it would cost almost as much to take it apart and clean it as it would to buy a new one.

On the positive side: It can be put on a tripod. The zoom is GREAT for a point and shoot, the size is very handy and it has a timer if you do use a tripod. For the price, it has good features, but I'd advise looking for an Olympus for more reliable pics.

Best point & shoot I've used
I have been an amateur photographer for 15 years. I usually stick with my SLR camera, but there are times when a "pocket" camera is most convenient. I've tried other brands (including Nikon) but have been disappointed with the results. The Pentax IQ Zoom 160 gives you one of the best wide angle/zoom range at a decent price. I've captured shots that would have been difficult if not impossible with other point & shoots. I've even used the camera to capture on-stage scenes at dance recitals and have been amazed at the results.

If you can afford it, the Pentax IQ 200 will give you even more zoom power. But the 160 is an amazing value. You won't be disappointed. I've recommended this camera to friends, and they've all loved it. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The super-compact Pentax ZX-M camera has straightforward, easy-to-read dial controls, and it offers fully manual operation. It comes with a wide variety of creative, yet user-friendly options, including: multimode exposure system, an advanced light metering system, and a 1/2000-second high-speed shutter.

You have the option of choosing one of four exposure modes: the hands-off programmed AE, the depth-oriented aperture-priority AE, the action-oriented shutter-priority AE, and the totally maneuverable metered manual. The easy-to-use exposure compensation lets you quickly adjust the exposure level within a +/- 3 EV range in 1/2 EV steps for bracketing or for intentional under- or overexposure.

No matter the lighting conditions, from difficult backlighting to high-contrast situations, the ZX-M's autoexposure modes are designed to give you high-quality, properly exposed images. With the simple push of a button, the memory lock feature holds your exposure settings for up to 10 seconds, letting you reframe your shot without losing your settings.

With a top shutter speed of 1/2000 of a second, this camera gives you crisp, sharply focused images, even if your subject is in motion. This high shutter speed makes the ZX-M ideal for sports and other action photography. The built-in self timer can help you avoid camera shake during slow-shutter and bulb applications, while the 12-second delay gives you plenty of time to get in the shot.

The preview button lets you check the depth-of-field for your aperture setting before you shoot. This features ensures that you get the effect you're looking for. You can also take advantage of this function when the aperture ring is set on the "A" (auto) position. The external LCD panel and viewfinder display can give you a range of useful photographic data, including: external flash status, shutter speed, aperture, exposure compensation, and out-of-exposure coupling range warning, over- and underexposure indication in metered manual. ... Read more

Features

• Crisp, sharply focused images, even if the subject is in motion
• Wide variety of creative, yet user-friendly options
• Memory lock feature holds exposure settings for up to 10 seconds
• Preview button lets you check the depth-of-field
• Lens not included

Reviews (5)

Happy in Arizona--But error on Product specs
I purchased this camera as a replacement for a Pentax Super Program that had given many years of faithful service. According to a Pentax rep via their website, this model is the closest one in their current lineup to match the features of the Super Program. I just received it and am testing it, but it is light, easy to handle, and easy to learn. It allowed me to "salvage" my AF280T flash, and several pretty expensive Vivitar Series 1 Zoom lenses. I agree with the one reviewer who mentioned that the lens mount is plastic. I too worry a little about the wear and tear over time, compared to the "old" metal mounts. The only real disappointment (not a big one) is that the product specs on this website are in error re: TTL flash metering. This camera is not TTL compatible. However, it does sync with dedicated flash units on "auto" but you can't use the TTL setting. Unfortunately I only found that out after ordering it, via a Pentax service rep. .... It's a really nice camera.

I Love This Camera!
This is a great camera. I got it to replace my K1000 for the convenience of automatic film loading and the more accurate matrix metering. I've had this camera since 1998 and have had no problems. It takes sharp, perfectly exposed pictures, and is easy to operate. The dials and knobs are easy to figure out - you don't need the manual to start taking photos. I have two other Pentax SLR bodies (K1000, ZX-5N) but this is my favorite.

Great, simple body
I am a high school photo student and this is the first SLR I bought. It is a very simple camera, akin the the K1000 (An all manual TANK!), but with a few extra luxuries like an automatic film winder and aperture priority mode. A great camera if you don't mind manually focusing, especially for still life type photos. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a basic camera that takes great photos.

ZX-M - Great starter camera for the price
I've had this camera for over a year now and it hasn't dissapointed. I wanted a basic camera that not only allowed me to learn the 'ropes' but also have the means to go automatic when I needed to. The only negatives: (1) the lens mount is plastic, not metal, so there may be a problem with wear in the future and (2) there is no way to get multiple exposures. But overall, this is a great starter camera. Highly recommended.

Best Buy
This Camera is a great buy,if your in school or working it's a great buy plain and simple this is a great camera buy it. ... Read more

Features

• 35mm compact point-and-shoot
• 38-115m 3x zom lens with autofocus
• Multi-mode flash features red-eye reduction
• Automatic film loading, advance, and rewind

Reviews (3)

great all around camera
This camera takes great photos but you can find it elsewhere for the same price and it will come with a case and battery. Shop elsewhere.

Great Camera
I purchased this camera to replace yet another camera my husband broke. I am sick of spending a lot on cameras and have seen this one for almost twice as much as I paid here at Amazon.com. So I bought it and love it. It is simple to use, has auto rewind, zoom lens and date, and is inexpensive. Not any problems and we take a lot of pictures.

Great Zoom Camera!!!
This great camera may be small, but it's packed with great features!
The zoom lens is terrific. While I was at my cousin's concert, I could see them up close without moving an inch! Believe me, going from 38mm to 115mm is a long way. I also love the all of the modes. The flash modes are: Auto flash, auto flash with red eye reduction, day-light sync (fill-in flash), slow shutter flash off mode (it uses natural light where flash is not advised), and slow shutter with flash and red eye reduction. The other modes are Infinity landscape mode and self timer (10 sec.) For the price, this is a great camera! ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

In addition to the Pentax IQZoom 115G's high-performance 3x zoom lens, this camera offers a wide range of advanced features and easy-to-use functions within its compact body. It offers multipattern metering, passive five-point autofocus, an auto zoom flash with red-eye reduction, an actual-image zoom viewfinder, a panorama mode, and an LCD information panel. It has a full, flat front panel that protects the lens barrel from damage and makes carrying and storing effortless. When the power is turned off, the lens retracts within the front panel.It has a stylish black and silver body that fits comfortably in a shirt pocket or purse.

The Pentax IQZoom 115G lens features an aspherical lens element for sharp images, minimizing aberrations and ghost images.It offers a zoom macro capability, allowing the photographer to take clearly focused pictures from approximately 2.15 feet away from the subject.

The flash provides a metering system that detects low light and backlit shooting conditions.The built-in flash automatically provides fill-in illumination.It also offers a red-eye reduction feature and allows the photographer to create images using advanced flash techniques such as daylight synch, slow-shutter synch, and bulb synch.The user can also turn off the flash when taking pictures with ambient light.

A special panorama mode with midroll switching is possible for large group shots or landscapes.The actual-image viewfinder adjusts the size of its image area in proportion to the selected focal length.The Pentax IQZoom 115G also features a built-in diopter adjustment to customize the viewfinder to match the user's eyesight.A self-timer and date imprinting provide this camera with added flexibility. ... Read more

Features

• 35mm camera
• 38 to 115mm high-performance zoom
• Auto zoom flash with red-eye reduction
• Actual-image zoom viewfinder
• Electronic self-timer

Reviews (6)

Great little camera!
My pentax arrived in the mail Friday (two days ago) and I have already gone through one roll of film. This is my first "real" camera and I was not sure I'd be able to figure out how to use it.

Well, I was wrong. After reading the manual and trying a few practise shot, I was able to use it with ease. I used the different features, including slow speed shots with no flash, and normal speed shots with flash, and it was pretty easy to do.

I got the developed photos today and saw that most of the shots turned out great! Of course I needed a tripod for the slow speed shots, but otherwise all the pictures came out clear. I've never taken photos of anything that looked this good.

I'm pretty happy with this camera!

Photos okay but horrible to use
I took this back to the shop after a weekend with it, before even having the photos developed.

Reasons:

1. the zoom control has a kind of "delayed-action" effect to it that makes it extremely annoying and difficult to frame your shot quickly.

2. The shutter release has even more of a delay. Forget action shots unless you photograph sloths and tortoises...

3. The case it comes with is huge. I can't see the point of making a camera so small then supplying a case so large.

Having said all this, the results from the one film I put through it were fine. So if you take pictures of things that don't move and you don't mind lugging the enormous case around, you may be happy.

PS. I swapped it for a Canon Sure Shot 120 Classic which is everything this isn't.

Penta 115 IQ Zoom
A very good LITTLE camera!Fits easily in a shirt pocket or pants.The zoom is adjustable all the way to 115.Tried the macro also, it came out extremely CLEAR.A nice camera...thanks again Amazon.Com & Pentaxps, many features, tried em all, they all are easy to understand, you'll be taking excellent pictures within minutes of loading the battery & film.They recommended using 400, but my first roll of 200 film worked exceedingly well.Very satisfied

a 10k camera
We purchased this camera to supplement our Minolta SLR when our daughter was born(point & shoot)for quick shots. It has worked so well we put the Minolta on the shelf. Well six years and more than 10,000 photographs later it finally ground to a halt. We plan on picking up a new Pentax IQ Zoom 200 to replace it.

value for money
I bought this camera around a year back and since then it has been used not only by me but also my friends. I have always got good results. There a lot of features in this camera and to get the good results you must use these features when required. I must say this requires a little knowledge of photography. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Pentax's IQ Zoom 80S Date camera has a focal length range of 38mm to 80mm and a zoom ratio of approximately 2.1 times, making it extremely flexible for shooting everything from landscape scenes to casual snapshots. Its autofocus and autoexposure operation makes it extremely easy for you to take clear, high-quality images time after time.

The built-in flash gives you five modes to choose from: flash-on, flash-off (museum mode), slow shutter sync (sunset mode), bulb-sync (fireworks mode) and bulb (evening mode), ensuring great pictures under any lighting condition. In backlight compensation mode, the 80S uses the available natural lighting to improve the balance between your subject and the rest of the picture, while the red-eye reduction lamp helps to eliminate the unsightly effect of red-eye in your images.

A large, easy-to-read LCD panel provides you with a wide range of data on camera operations and settings, including: frame numbers, battery exhaustion warning mark, red-eye reduction, flash-on, flash-off, slow shutter, bulb, back light. The actual-image zoom viewfinder adjusts the viewfinder image according to the selected focal length. You can also select close-distance compensation frame, in-focus confirmation, close-distance warning, and flash recharge signal.

The built-in electronic self-timer has a 10-second delay, allowing you to join the picture. This feature also works for time-delayed images, like moving water or interesting action shots, letting you flex your creative muscles. When the landscape mode is selected, the camera's focus is fixed at infinity to capture distant subjects in sharp focus, ideal when taking pictures through windows. The date imprinting feature gives you five switchable options: year-month-day, month-day-year, day-month-year, day-hour-minute, and blank. ... Read more

Features

• Extrememly flexible for shooting everything from landscape scenes to casual snapshots
• Large, easy-to-read LCD panel provides you with a wide range of data on camera operations and settings
• Actual-image zoom viewfinder
• Red-eye reduction lamp helps to eliminate the unsightly effect of red-eye
• Date imprinting and built-in electronic self-timer

Amazon.com Product Description

Packing a high level of quality and performance into the world's smallest 35mm SLR (as of February 2003), the Pentax *ist measures just 4.8 by 3.3 by 2.5 inches and weighs a mere 11.8 ounces. It offers a host of advanced features and user-friendly functions for a wide range of photographers--from the most demanding professionals to SLR novices. All controls are functionally positioned on the top and back panels for maximum ease of operation and accessibility.

The newly developed 16-segment multipattern metering system solves even the most complicated lighting conditions to produce beautifully exposed photographs, frame after frame. In addition to all-purpose multipattern mode, the *ist also offers spot and center-weighted modes to meet specialized applications.

Thanks to the advanced SAFOX VIII phase-matching autofocus (AF) system, the *ist assures sharp, crisp focus on the subject, even under poor lighting conditions. Its newly developed 11-point AF sensor constantly monitors 11 different points in the image field and covers a wide area, both vertically and horizontally, to assure optimum focus.

The multi-data LCD panel offers a full range of information, with large icons and numbers to supplement the camera's user-friendly operation system. With its natural-bright-matte focusing screen, the *ist offers a sharp, clear viewfinder image even under unfavorable lighting conditions. The LCD viewfinder indicator at the bottom provides a full range of information, including the selected picture mode and exposure compensation factors.

Covering a view angle as wide as 28mm, the auto flash automatically pops up and discharges when the camera detects low-light and/or backlight situations. It also retracts to the storage position automatically when the camera's power is turned off. Its red-eye reduction function effectively reduces the annoying red-eye effect in subjects' eyes.

Other features include:

• The high-speed motor drive winds the film at a speed of 2.5 frames per second
• Automatically record the date, or day and time, of picture-taking on the photograph for quick, easy reference of captured images
• Depth-of-field preview function is electronically operated for easy confirmation of the in-focus area in the image field before actually taking a picture
• 17 custom functions enable you to customize some basic camera functions to suit individual preferences

Features

• World's smallest 35mm autofocus SLR camera (March 2003)
• Multi-mode exposure system; 16-segment multi-pattern metering system
• 11-point autofocus system; 1/4000-second high-speed shutter
• Large LCD panel with multi-data LCD viewfinder indicator
• Retractable auto pop-up flash

Reviews (2)

What a delight
I have had my *ist D for about a month. What a delight to own and use. I like almost everything about it. I am a long time Pentax owner with a collection of lenses so have never considered any other brand as I patiently waited for Pentax to come out with a digital camera. I am so not disappointed. As a camera, not considering the digital part, it is the best of all the ones I have (LX, ZX-M, ZX-5n, ME, ME Supper, Spotmatic, etc). It is well balanced and small. I love the controls and the features. You may read reviews that say the memory card is difficult to remove. With my ScanDisk flash this is not a problem. Just tilt the camera slightly, press the release with your thumb and the card magically moves to your hand. It is really very easy, the trick is you don't try and grab it, you let it come to you. The first time I used it I took over 200 high-resolution JPEG shots of my daughters ballet performance. I used my old 85mm f2 lens and it was wonderful in the dim light. I also have the two new zooms (18-55 and 75-300) and recommend both as they are very reasonable in cost. The only thing I don't like is that using the old manual lenses requires either full aperture (OK for my use so far) or a manual setting of the exposure as you cannot do stop down metering as far as I have been able to find. Other than that, I like everything. The only point to consider is that I have no knowledge of any of the competitive digital cameras, have never even held one. But when you are in love with the one you have, who cares about the others.

very good new camera
This is an excellent new camera. Pentax has definitely innovated in the design and manufacture of the *ist. The form factor and light weight, yet well constructed, make it seem like a next generation camera compared to the Canon Rebel Ti and the Nikon N75 (both very good cameras also). The advanced features are all easy to access and use on the *ist, or you can use the pre-programmed mode wheel (sports, macro, landscape, portrait, etc.) to let the *ist make the decisions. So far, the pre-programmed modes have produced excellent photos in a variety of conditions.

One recommendation, upgrade to the Pentax SMCP-FA 50mm f/1.7 Lens that Amazon sells for $149.99. It is highly rated and produces excellent photos. The Pentax SMC 50mm/1.7 probably offers the best price/performance ratio of any Pentax lens made and will allow you to tap the full potential of the *ist. (Pentax, Canon, and Nikon tend to sell their consumer SLRs with mediocre zoom lenses to keep the overall cost down, and the quality of the photos produced is average as a result and often disappointing to new SLR owners.) The Pentax SMCP-FA 28-105mm f/4.0-5.6 (IF) Zoom Lens is also a very good lens. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Designed for advanced photographers yet easy enough to use for the budding amateur, the ZX-7 is fully equipped with amazing features. It's most impressive standard feature is the Auto Picture Mode, which automatically selects one of five picture modes: landscape, close-up, action, portrait, or standard program.The latter setting is based on your subjects' distance, lens focal length, and movement; the ZX-7 then tells you the camera's decision via the illuminated mode dial.

You can tackle any lighting situation with the built-in flash (with red-eye reduction) and Pentax's sophisticated six-segment multi-pattern light metering system which calculates the optimum exposure, so that even the most difficult high/low-contrast lighting situations are no problem.

The predictive autofocus function automatically detects your subject's motion and anticipates the correct positioning at the time of shutter release, resulting in perfectly focused pictures even when the subject is moving toward or away from the camera.

You can also create artistic shots by combing exposures onto a single frame. When taking three or more exposure onthe same frame, simply press the multiple exposure button after each exposure to create your image. This camera also features quartz dating, panorama mode, and a remote control. ... Read more

Features

• SMART picture mode w/5 auto switching programs
• Six-segment metering
• High speed predictive AF anticipates subject movement
• Multi-function auto pop-up flash w/red-eye reduction
• Creative multiple exposure capability

Amazon.com Product Description

The Pentax IQZoom 928M features wide-angle to telephoto coverage and 3.2x zoom in a compact body that fits into a shirt pocket or small purse. Its zoom macro capability captures well-defined close-up pictures at any focal length with a maximum magnification of 0.22x at the 90mm telephoto setting. The five-point passive autofocus system produces images that are sharp and clear.

If the camera's metering system detects a low light or backlight situation, the built-in flash automatically provides fill-in illumination. It also offers a red-eye reduction feature. Other flash modes include flash on/off, slow shutter synch, bulb synch, and bulb.

When the IQZoom 928M is left unused for three minutes, it automatically retracts the zoom lens to storage position and shuts off to save battery power. The date feature on this camera allows you to imprint the date or time onto pictures to keep track of memorable events.

... Read more

Features

• Autofocus camera allows for focusing from 1.65 feet to infinity
• Zoom from 28mm to 90mm
• Built-in flash with red-eye reduction mode
• Multi-metering exposure control with auto backlight compensation and manual compensation override
• Midroll switchable panorama format

Reviews (6)

Great little camera
This little camera has loads of features and takes great pictures. I'm a big fan of wide-angle shots and 35mm cameras with a 28mm lens area rarity so this one worked out perfectly for me. My only complaint is what another reviewer had complained about... the on/off switch. The on/off switch has a hair trigger. If you even brush the camera against anything it turns on or off. This is more of a nuisance than anything, but it's a big nuisance. Never-the-less this camera has replaced my beloved Olympus SLR as my 35mm camera of choice.

From A Seasoned Traveler
My husband and I took this camera on a two year, around the world trip. We shot over 200 rolls of film and never had any troubles. Its a great camera...excellent zoom, easy to use, nice features and terrific photos. We highly recommend it.

Fantastic but have had problems
I have really enjoyed having the 28 wide angle lensse but I have had two of these cameras and have had problems with the on / off switch in both! I am lothed to part with the wide angle but I am likewise lothed to buy another on of these cameras. I have taken many fantastic photos before the cameras (both of them clapped out!) I dont know am I the only one to have seen this!

A Neat Camera
I,ve had for a while now, it is beautifully made and feels great when it is used or just static, zoom controls excellent, everything is easy to use, very well placed, excellent ergonomics, the 28mm end is great to have and 90 mm is just fine, the problem I find with this camera is, while the lens is quite good, it is not really excellent or on par with this focal range of other manufacturers, this is not normal for pentax, as this really is a first rate camera with an ordinary lens, the quality of the photos I,ve received is just ordinary, have tried different films and developers, always the same situation, just ordinary shots that are not representative of what a Pentax can be expected to do.

Almost perfect
I've been looking for the perfect travel camera for years, and I'm satisfied that this is close enough. The camera was recommended to me by a saleswoman in a camera shop, who told me it had the best flash of any compact automatic camera. What appealed to me most, however, was that its power zoom is much smoother and quieter than any I've tried before. I also liked the clear, bright viewfinder. I immediately took it to Jamaica for a three week research trip and shot 10 36-exposure rolls of Fuji 400 slide film. The pictures were consistently outstanding, better than I've had from my Nikon and Olympus and better than my travel partner's Leica. And the saleswoman was right about the flash, too; my flash shots were if anything better than my non-flash shots! The camera was easy to carry, being light and compact. Comfortable to hold. Sturdy, too. Simple to use, but with some useful over-ride features such as an infinity lock for shooting through glass, a spot focus lock, and six flash modes. All these compact automatics look alike, butI think this one has a bigger brain. I was learning towards a 38-105 zoom but the saleswoman talked me into the 28-90, and I'm glad she did; I used the 28 mm setting a lot. I got 10 rolls of 36 and at least 2 rolls of 24 from my first battery, which seemed fine, but it went dead without warning, so carry a spare. I have only two small complaints about this camera. First, the automatic fill flash comes on often (and unnecessarily?) in bright sunlight, which is annoying. And second, the delay in the red-eye reduction is too long, so subjects think the picture has been taken and move before the shutter goes off. In spite of these quibbles, this has become my number one camera, and I expect to use it for many years. I gave my Nikon slr and my Olympus clamshell to my daughters, because this Pentax has the best of both of them. It is simple enough for a novice and good enough for some professional use, so I can recommend it to anyone. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Not worth buying this camera.
I just received it. Camera is good looking but did not
come with case or battery. Importantly, it is not zoom
camera. It is telephoto camera. It means, you get to zoom
at predefined levels in this case at 38mm/60mm/75mm/95mm.
You can zoom only to either of these 4 settings. I am
now planning to return it.

batteries not included
factor in cost of battery before buying this camera since the camera came without battery. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The 38-120mm, 3.2x power zoom lens of the Pentax IQZoom 120Mi Date camera gives you a high-performance optical design and an aspherical lens element that delivers top-quality images. The zoom macro lets you shoot close-ups at any focal length from as close as 2.1 feet from your subject, while the adjustable diopter allows you to match the viewfinder image to your eyesight. This optical versatility, coupled with the lightweight, durable aluminum body, makes this camera easy to take with you everywhere.

The "actual image" viewfinder shows the image size in relation to the zoom ratio, so you'll have an accurate preview of your finished photo. An LCD panel, located on top of the camera, provides you with a wide range of data on camera operations, including: exposure counter, battery exhaustion warning, infinity-landscape, spot AF, red-eye reduction, flash-on/flash-off, slow-speed shutter, bulb, self-timer, and remote control. It comes equipped with an electro-luminescence (EL) illuminator, which is automatically turned on in the dark for easy confirmation of the displayed data. This lets you confirm the settings at a quick glance whether it's day or night.

Even under complicated lighting conditions, the six-segment multipattern metering system consistently gives you perfectly exposed images. When the camera's metering system detects a low light or backlight situation, the built-in flash automatically provides fill-in illumination. The 120Mi lets you chose from a variety of flash functions, including: flash-on/flash-off (museum mode), slow shutter sync (sunset mode), bulb-sync (fireworks mode) and bulb mode (evening mode). It also offers a red-eye reduction feature that helps eliminate most of the red-eye effect that can appear in a subject's eyes. When combined with the metering system, the passive five-point autofocus system ensures crisp, high-quality focusing, even when shooting a subject at a distance or through a glass window. If you want to focus on just a single element of the scene, you can switch to the IQZoom's Spot Autofocus mode.

With a single flick of a switch, you can select panorama mode at any frame of the film. This feature lets you take a standard shot, then a sweeping landscape, and back to a standard shot--all on the same roll of film. When the IQZoom 120Mi is left unused for three minutes (or five minutes in the self-timer mode) with the power on, it automatically retracts the zoom lens to the storage position to protect it from damage and turns the power off to conserve batteries.

The date feature lets you imprint the date or day and time on your photographs, ensuring that you will never forget when you took that roll of film. You can choose from one of five different settings: year-month-day, month-day-year, day-month-year, day-hour-minute, and blank. ... Read more

Features

• 35mm compact metal point-and-shoot
• 38-120mm 3.2x zoom lens with autofocus
• Multi-mode flash features red-eye reduction
• Automatic film loading, advance, and rewind
• Features date imprinting and self-timer

Reviews (24)

Great little camera!
What impresses me the most about this camera is that it takes really nice pictures. I purchased it recently and took a test roll (Kodak 200 speed film) without reading the manual. I took some in the bright sunny outdoors, some in dimly lit restaurants, some at night in my apartment with poor lighting, and some in the near dark. And all the pictures came out with the subject(s) in beautiful focus, and crystal clear. The only small problem was some of my apartment pictures had a little bit of red-eye, but this camera does have red-eye reduction, and I will be sure to read the manual about how to use it.

In addition, it's a great travel camera -- it's very compact, and fairly sturdy. I packed it in a full back pack (without a case) and also took it to an amusement park on a recent trip and found that it was light enough in my purse to carry around all day, and did not mind being jolted.

All in all, I'm extremely happy with this purchase both quality and price-wise. I would offer one tip I've learned -- the timer function does not turn itself off after a picture, so be careful when you snap the next one -- you might still be on the timer!

Great Camera!
I recently purchased this camera and I am extremely pleased with it. I did alot of comparison shopping before I decided on the Pentax 120Mi QD. This camera has more features than you would expect with such a compact design. The real-size viewfinder makes cropping pictures a breeze, while the auto-backlight feature is a welcome addition that makes a HUGE difference and cannot be found on many models in this price range or even a little higher. The features are so simple to use that even a novice will get the hang of it in no time. The camera and zoom lens feels solid and sturdy and the aluminum body makes this camera both durable and attractive. I've compared the photos from this camera and similar point and shoot cameras (like the olympus stylus zoom) and high dollar SLR's and found that the Pentax 120Mi QD produces the same, if not better quality and detail. If you are in the market for a reliable, feature-packed compact point and shoot camera, get this camera...you won't be disappointed!!

Powerful camera, works wonderfully.
Strengths: Almost as small as a canon Elph2, looks attractive, easy to use, LCD panel light up for night shooting, panorama switch, light in weight.

Weaknesses: Haven't found any yet.

Overall: The main reason I bought this camera is because it look attractive. It's design is small and the silver color makes it look durable and it is. It's like buying a car, you first like the looks then the specs comes second. Also, it's easy to use, my wife learned it in couple minutes and she know nothing about cameras. Couple people mention about the zoom being a little slow, but I find it just perfect, at less for normal everyday consumer use. I mean, if your looking for fast zoom you should be looking for SLR (some great ones on Amazon too) and not point & shoot. The picture quality are clear and good. But then again, keep in mind that you must know how to use the camera or any camera correctly and your film developer must do a good processing job to get good prints. Overall, I recommend this camera to anyone. It worth the money. Great camera; you won;t be disappointed.

Buying As Gift - I Love The One I Own!
I researched many, many, many Point-And-Shoot cameras in early 2003 mainly for hiking. I selected this one for size, quality, and many recommendations from other websites and in-store camera personnel. This is my 3rd P&S camera and by far the best one I have had yet.

I had an Advantix film camera (which I do not recommend to anyone) last summer and took some of the same photos again with my new Pentax this summer. Side by side the difference was NIGHT & DAY. This camera takes amazing photos, especially outdoors.

I'm coming back to buy another one for my mother for Christmas because she was so impressed with the print quality of my camera. She has a professional Cannon SLR ($$$) camera and said she could hardly tell the difference between my photos and hers.

As for the additional remote issue mentioned in other reviews, I bought it too. But I've since realized with the timer function I really just don't even use the remote - I just set the timer and always have time to scurry into the photo.

I highly recommend this camera for yourself or as a gift, you will not be disapointed!!

Great Camera but...
I received this camera as a Christmas gift and was surprised since I have a great Ricoh camera which is very similar (not quite as much zoom as this one has). The Pentax works good for landscape and still photos but its awfully slow for action shots. I love taking photos of our dogs, but once I get their attention and have a great photo op in front of me, the camera takes too long to shoot the picture and I've lost the shot -- not so with my Ricoh. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Pentax ZX-30 SLR has a predictive autofocus feature that automatically activates when the camera detects your subject's motion. It can then predict where the subject will be at the moment of shutter release, giving you pinpoint focusing. This function is especially helpful when taking action and sports shots or when taking pictures of wildlife.

Even when shooting in dimly lit conditions, the SAFOX VI phase-matching autofocus system guarantees that you get high precision and high-speed autofocus. The six-segment, multipatterned metering system also promises quality results in difficult, high-contrast light such as side lighting or backlit situations. When combined, these two features can provide you with sharp, clear images, whatever the lighting conditions you have to shoot in.

The large LCD panel on top of the camera displays vital information using large, easy-to-read icons while the viewfinder LCD display offers a full range of information, including the selected picture program and an exposure compensation factor. With the memory lock button, you can store the present exposure value in the camera's memory for 20 seconds and then recompose your image without having to change or reset your camera settings. ... Read more

Features

• User friendly picture mode with direct access to mode selection
• Programmed AE, shutter priority AE, aperture priority AE, manual exposure modes
• Landscape, portrait, night action, and close-up AE modes
• Pinpoint autofocis with focis prediction
• 6-segment multipattern metering

Reviews (14)

Pentax has a product to be proud of!!...
I am 14 years old and new to the photographic world. After doing months of research on what I wanted to be my first camera I decided on the Pentax ZX-30 Quartz Date. It was probably one of the best choices I have made. As a beginner I was looking for a camera that was simple to operate, but one that would give me quality pictures and versatility for me to be creative. This camera was my answer. My first roll of film was beautiful. My mother has a home daycare so I immediately started taking pictures of the kids. When I got my first roll of film back I was amazed at the quality of the pictures. They were wonderful. This camera gives you a variety of settings yet it is simple enough that you can have fun without having to deal with confusing dials and knobs. This is the choice for a beginner who wants to take photography seriously. Buy and enjoy!!

Excellent Camera
This is a wonderful Camera that I have had for 4 years now. I have extremely enjoyed the quality pictures, and fun options that this camera has.

I took several photography courses and this camera was leaps and bounds above what I needed.

I would definitely recommend this camera to anyone looking into starting up or continuing photography as a hobby.

Excellent SLR for starters
I have owned this camera for the last 3 yrs. Not a single complaint so far. Most of the time I have used the auto settings even though it has a manual option. Excellent focus even in low light conditions and the focus lock is pretty fast. Yet to have a bad shot except for those occasional out of focus pictures which were mostly because of my fault.

Operation is pretty simple and does not have much frills to worry about. Excellent value for the price

Best Camera for it's price out there!
I had decide that it was time in my life to buy a nicer camera than a point-and-shoot camera. I looked around on the internet and went to local stores that sold good quality cameras. I looked at cameras made by Nikon, Cannon, Minolta, Pentax, and Sigma, because i had heard that they were the top brands.

After several days of looking and comparing options and prices I settled on the pentax camera. I chose it because
1. it was reasonably priced
2. How user friendly it was and
3. Because it had extensive options.
Basically everything I wanted out of a camera.

I suggest to you to do the same thing i did. Just look around everywhere and compare all of the options and special features of the cameras. I also recamend that if you do buy an slr camera you should get a polorizing lens cover or even just a plain lens cover, because it is exremely easy to scratch the lens.

better than my pz -70
I got this camera for a 2nd autofocus camera. I like it better than my pz-70. By the way Pentax makes the best slrs. I also have 2 Pentax manuel cameras a mx and a mg. I love them too. Its light solid and small for a slr the zx-30 is great! ... Read more

Features

• Five selectable picture modes
• Auto exposure bracketing
• Programed AE, Av & Tv Mode, Metered manual modes
• SAFOX V TTL auto focus system
• TTL auto pop-up flash w/red-eye reduction

Reviews (1)

Not bad while it lasted.
The camera started showing problems two weeks into use. The winding mechanism would not rewind 36 exp rolls, then 24 exp rolls, then it wouldn't wind the film past the 4th or 5th exp on a fresh roll, and at the end, it wouldn't even spool up a fresh roll.

It took pretty good pictures, I would say, but I'm not experienced at judging pictures. They were in focus and the exposure times got the balance between light and dark right. The film winding mechanism was a little loud for my taste.

On the up side, because of its almost entirely plastic construction (I think the lens mount is plastic as well) the camera was light and easy to carry. On the down side, plastic obviously breaks quicker than metal. The auto-focus was pretty quick and if you understood where to point the lens, it was also correct.

At the end of the day, for an amateur SLR that cost around a quarter of a thousand (including lens kit and bag), it's absolutely unacceptable that it should break so quickly. Pentax had better rethink their strategy. ... Read more