Having learned photography on a Pentax K1000 I've always had a bit of a soft spot for them. They've always been a bit of an underdog when compared to Canon and Nikon gear but I will say their build quality, ease of use, and lens selection is pretty strong.
If you're looking for a film SLR and want to really learn how to shoot then I would recommend finding a good used K1000 or ME Super body. Now, keep in mind these are true "strippers" in terms of features. No autofocus, no film advance, not a lot of bells or whistles. What they will do is teach you how about shutter speed, aperture, depth-of-field and composition.
If you're interested in a digital SLR (dSLR) then I would recommend either the K100D or the K10D. The 100D is a 6.1MP camera while the 10D is a 10MP camera. Both offer fully automated functions, auto focus and shake reduction.
If money were no object I would clearly go with the 10D for the increased resolution and for a body that is sealed against the elements and dust/dirt.
No matter which you choose you will get a line that is backward compatible with all K-Mount lenses (manual and autofocus) and you should be able to find some very nice aftermarket offerings on eBay for a real steal.
The knock you'll hear about Pentax is that they are a smaller company and don't offer as broad a range of lenses and accessories (which is true). Some will also say their dSLR shutters are noisy (and compared to some of the top of the line Canon and Nikons they are) and that they are slow to market with the latest technology (the 10D came out close to a year after Canon & Nikon had a 10MP model to offer).
That said, I think when you compare the 100/10D to the Rebel XT the ergonomics are better, and the picture quality with the low ISO settings are comparable.
Now, if you were to tell us you really wanted to find the best Pentax had to offer then I would send you toward the 645II which is a medium format camera that is an absolute gem. Pentax also has a line of medium format lenses that are truly striking and the camera is highly regarded in the pro-circuit.
Good luck in your shopping!
2007-02-16 08:29:33
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answer #1
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answered by TheBigSquareHead 4
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Neither. For examining photographs you do no longer prefer a complex pants get entry to point SLR with a super form of gizmos that no certainly photographer desires. basically you're able to throw money on the best SLR device in the international and get undesirable photographs out of it, by way of ability of actuality that is all in wisdom the thank you to prepare the digicam. purchase used so which you cash is going greater desirable a Nikon D80 physique. An AF Nikkor 50mm f1.8 D, and the AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm f1.8 G. in all probability an SB600 or 2. you will prefer a state-of-the-paintings element SLR with a lens that can provide you you with greater desirable techniques than a steady 18-55mm lens.
2016-11-23 13:08:05
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answer #2
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answered by Anonymous
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I have a Pentax K1000 that is a great camera. It has bayonet mount lenses so they're easy to change. Many years ago I owned an early K1000 with screw base lenses. It was a great camera also. It was stolen and I had a couple of other brands afterwards but came back to the K1000.
2007-02-16 04:09:19
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answer #3
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answered by mustanger 5
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Are you looking for a digital SLR of a film SLR. It makes a huge difference in our ability to answer your question.
Please click on that pencil icon and "add details" to your question and tell us which type you want. If you have any budget considerations, etc., it would help to know that also.
It would also help to know whether you have extensive or zero prior experience as well.
2007-02-16 04:54:20
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answer #4
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answered by Picture Taker 7
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This is probably not the answer you are looking for, but the Pentax 67 is killer gear!
2007-02-16 06:00:46
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answer #5
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answered by harakiri 3
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