Pentax Corporation has announced the Pentax Optio A40, the latest model in the "Optio A" series. The Optio A40 is Pentax's first digital camera with 12.0 effective megapixels that allows the capture of ultra high-definition images.

The Optio A40 uses a new large, 1/1.7-inch CCD sensor that has a wide light receiving area allowing superior tone reproduction. The camera features an ultra-slim body of just 19mm even though even thought it incorporates a large LCD monitor. High-quality aluminum alloy is used for the body, giving the camera a sophisticated texture.

Features

• 12MP 1/1.7″ Type CCD Sensor
• 37-111mm (35mm equiv) 3x optical zoom lens
• 2.5-inch TFT 232,000 pixels LCD
• Shutter-Priority AE mode and Manual Exposure
• Intelligent zoom and Auto Picture Mode
• Three types of anti-shake functions
• 18 shooting modes and 15 playback modes
• 640 x 480 and 320 x 240 movie clips (30 fps)
• 21MB of built-in-memory
• Compatible with SD and SDHC memory cards
• FotoNation's red eye compensation function for flash shots
• ACDSee for PENTAX 3.0 image viewer/image management software
• Windows Vista support
• Support PictBridge, DPOF functions, Exif Print, and PRINT Image Matching III

New with the Optio A40 is a "Dynamic Range Adjustment" that prevents whiteouts and blackouts by correcting the tones for the highlighted areas or the shadowed areas of a subject with significant differences in contrast. When photographing people against the sun, it is possible to display subjects brightly while keeping the tones of the background.

The Optio A40 is also equipped with a "Face Recognition AF & AE" function that automatically detects and focuses on people’s faces. In addition, the Optio A40 also comes with new functions that apply face recognition technology, such as “Natural Skin Tone" mode, which smoothly presents skin texture based on the detected information, and "Half-length Portrait" mode, which automatically takes a close-up photograph of the bust by trimming the people recognized in photo frame.

Pricing and Availability

The Pentax Optio A40 will be available in black color only in early November for a price of $299.95 (US MSRP).

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Pentax has unveiled a new online photo gallery – www.pentaxphotogallery.com to highlight the photography of Pentax shooters around the world.

In the press release, Pentax states: “Now we are taking things in a new direction with the Pentax Photo Gallery that offers 24/7/365 virtual access to the best photography captured by Pentax photographers".

The gallery already features more than 2,500 images submitted by more than 300 artists. Photographers range from 16 to 80 years of age and come from more than 40 countries throughout Europe, Asia, the Middle East, North, South and Central Americas, Africa, and the Pacific Rim. The gallery offers site navigation in multiple languages: English, Spanish, German, French, Japanese, and Italian.

The gallery includes a search engine that locates images according to camera bodies and individual lenses (as well as by photographer and subject category).

Photographers interested in submitting their work to the gallery need to email Pentax at: photogallery@pentax.com. An informative flash demonstration of the process is available: here.

The Pentax SMC-D FA 100mm f/2.8 is one of two macro lenses offered by Pentax. Unlike it’s predecessor (FA 100mm f/2.8 macro), the Pentax SMC-D FA 100mm f/2.8 Macro has been designed specifically for digital cameras. It utilizes curvature and positioning of optical elements to virtually eliminate flare and ghosting. This versatile lens features Pentax’s acclaimed multi-layer coating to lower surface reflection, reduce ultraviolet rays, and deliver clear, high-contrast images.

On current dSLRs with APS-C size sensors, the field-of-view is equivalent to about 150mm (35mm format). The SMC-D FA 100mm f/2.8 Macro sports a plastic lens barrel which doesn’t feel quite as durable as the previous metal construction. The obvious advantage of the new design is a lower weight. The inner lens tube extends when focusing towards short focus distances which is typical for most medium tele macro lenses.

Specifications

• Lens Type: macro lens
• Mount Type: Pentax K
• Magnify Power: 1/1
• Special Functions: macro
• Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
• Focal Length: 100 millimeters
• Minimum Focus: 11.8 inches
• Focus Type: auto-focus, manual-focus
• Filter size: 49mm (non-rotating)
• Hood: barrel-shaped, snap-on type (supplied)
• Real Angle of View: 24.5
• Weight: 12.2 ounces
• Diameter: 2.7 inches
• Length: 3 inches

The SMC-D FA 100mm f/2.8 Macro offer a maximum magnification of 1/1 (life size), producing impressive, well-defined macro images. Resolution is very good especially at f/4 to f/5.6 apertures. Distortion is well-controlled while there is very slight vignetting at f/2.8 (K10D). Chromatic aberrations (purple-fringing) are nearly non-existent.

Most retailers are offering this lens at discounted prices.

Pentax Imaging Company has announced two new lightweight, affordable compact digital camera models - the 8MP Pentax Optio M40 and the 8MP Pentax Optio E40.

The Optio M40 features an ultra-slim, sophisticated metallic body offering a 3x optical zoom and a large and easily viewable LCD screen. The user-friendly Optio M40 also features Face Recognition and digital Shake Reduction.

Optio M40 Features

• Stylish, ultra-slim body
• 8.0 effective megapixels
• 3X optical zoom and 4x digital zoom
• Face recognition AF & AE function
• Digital SR (Shake Reduction)
• Flash photography with soft flash function
• Large, easy-to-view 2.5 inch LCD screen
• Auto picture mode for automatic optimal settings
• Sixteen photography modes
• Records movies at 640 x 480 (30 fps) with sound
• 22MB internal memory + SD/SDHC/MMC card slot
• Slot for SD/SDHC memory card
• Powered by li-ion battery

The Optio E40 is an affordable, entry-level compact digital camera also featuring Face Recognition technology and Digital Shake Reduction functions for high-resolution photography. This entry-level model accepts widely available AA batteries and is designed for simple and intuitive operation so that even beginners can enjoy photography effortlessly.

Optio E40 Features

• 8.1 effective megapixels
• Large, high-resolution 2.4 inch LCD screen
• Face recognition AF/AE function
• Digital SR (Shake Reduction)
• Auto picture mode
• Green mode for automated setup
• 3x optical zoom and 4x digital zoom
• Continuous shooting mode
• 10MB internal memory + SD/SDHC/MMC card slot
• Powered by AA batteries

The Pentax Optio M40 is priced at $199.95 (US MSRP) and will ship in August 2007. The Pentax Optio E40 is priced at $149.95 (US MSRP) and will ship in September/October. Both cameras can be pre-ordered to insure quick delivery (see Amazon links below).

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Pentax announced the Pentax K100D Super digital SLR the newest member of the K Series of digital SLRs. The Pentax K100D Super builds on the popular Pentax K100D that first shipped in July 2006. It adds the Pentax Shake Reduction (SR) system, an innovative Dust Removal (DR) system, SDHC memory support, while keeping the 6.1MP CCD sensor and full compatibility with Pentax SDM lenses.

Also new is the K100D Super's sophisticated SAFOX VIII auto-focus system with 11 sensor points (nine cross-type sensors in the middle) to automatically capture off center subjects in crisp focus.

The Pentax Dust Removal (DR) system was previously available only in more advanced models. A Pentax original design, the Dust Removal system helps keep the CCD surface dust-free to ensure spotless images.

Features

• 6.1MP 23.5×15.7mm CCD Sensor with 12 bit/channel RAW
• PENTAX Shake Reduction mechanism for sharp, blur-free images
• Dust Removal – Image sensor movement combined with SP coating
• Auto sensitivity control up to 3200 standard output sensitivity
• Auto Picture Mode for effortless point-and-shoot SLR photography
• 11-point wide-frame AF to capture off-center subjects in crisp focus
• Large LCD monitor to facilitate image viewing and menu setting
• Bright, clear viewfinder with a Natural-Bright-Matte II focusing screen
• Compatibility with SDM system for smoother, quieter AF operation
• Built-in Flash – Retractable P-TTL auto-popup flash; Guide Number – 15.6 (200/m)
• Compact, lightweight body with optimum holding comfort
• Storage – SD or high-capacity SDHC memory cards
• Power: CR-V3 (2x), AA (4x lithium, alkaline, NiMH rechargeable)
• Compatibility with PictBridge, DPOF, Exif Print and PRINT Image Matching â…¢ formats

Along with the SLR, PENTAX has announced a new compact, easy-to-use AF-200FG Auto Flash. The hot-shoe mount flash features a compact, lightweight body, a guide number of 20 (at ISO 100/m) and simple dial operation to assure effortless flash photography for everyone.

The P-TTL auto flash system assures proper exposure level by measuring the flash’s pre-discharge with the camera’s multi-pattern metering system. The AF-200FG uniformly covers the wide discharge angle of a 28mm lens (in the 35mm format) and includes a flip-down diffuser that can cover the angle of a 24mm lens (in the 35mm format).

Priced at $599.95 (US MSRP), the PENTAX K100D Super with 18-55mm lens will ship in August 2007. (Body-only is $519.95.) The AF-200FG Auto Flash unit will ship in August 2007 for $149.95 (US MSRP).

You can pre-order the Pentax K100D Super Digital SLR to insure quick deliver once the camera is released. See links below.

Still using a 50mm f/1.7 lens? Then it’s time to step-up! Pentax’s classic 50mm f/1.4 lens is now available at bargain prices.

With the 1.5 crop of the Pentax digital SLRs, this lens is slightly telephoto (75mm equivalent) — perfect for people shots at parties and outdoor events. The greater depth-of-field (DOF) control means butter smooth bokeh while isolating your subject from the background. Not-to-mention, the large maximum aperture also means blazing fast autofocus. Want tack sharp photos? Just stop this gem down to f/2.8 or more.

Specifications

• Type: Standard
• Mount type: Pentax
• Focal length: 50mm
• Minimum aperture: f/22
• Maximum aperture: f/1.4
• Construction: 6 elements in 5 groups
• Angle of view: 47 degrees
• Focus drive: AF and manual
• Minimum focus: 1.5 feet
• Filter diameter: 49mm
• Fully automatic diaphragm
• Length: 1.5 inches
• Weight: 7.8 ounces
• Warranty, parts: 1 year, labor: 1 year

Any downside? Like it’s f/1.7 cousin, the SMCP-FA 50mm f/1.4 uses a plastic housing. However, it’s solid and rugged. No lens hood (RH-RB49 or 34021) is supplied. So you’ll have to source that separately.

As an example, here’s the deal that you can find at Amazon.com:

List Price: $330.99
Sale Price: $189.00
You Save: $141.99 (43%)

Pentax President Takashi Watanuki has told Hiroshi Suzuki, chief executive officer of the maker of optical lenses and glasses, that Pentax would accept Hoya’s takeover bid as long as some conditions are met. One key condition is that some current Pentax board members will remain at their posts. The camera maker also asked that Hoya ensure the independence of Pentax’s management after the merger. Pentax also asked for the continuation of its three core operations — optical components, medical equipment and digital cameras.

The Tokyo-based maker of digital cameras and optical equipment had been resisting offers by Hoya. Hoya Corp. is an optical instruments maker best known for their lens filters. Hoya with strong profits and a healthy balance sheet, continued to pursue Pentax even after Pentax unilaterally rejected a merger proposal made last December.

If the two sides reach an agreement, Hoya will launch a public tender offer in June to acquire more than two-thirds of Pentax shares. Hoya said it will pay 770 yen per Pentax share in the public tender offer. Keep in mind that the deal is not settled. The tender offer could lead to new players bidding for Pentax with a higher price to win over investors.

Pentax was once a major player in the camera industry. But, now holds less than 5 percent of the global digital camera market.

Pentax has announced the Optio A30 10MP (1/1.8 inch CCD) digicam with a wide dynamic range, a smc Pentax 3x zoom lens with a unique sliding lens system and an image processing engine that gives a rich color reproduction. The Optio A30 is the sixth DivX Certified digital camera introduced by Pentax in the past 18 months.

The Pentax original Shake Reduction (SR) technology in the A30 has been improved by adding both Digital and Movie SR for improved image capture in low-light settings and telephoto capture. A unique Face Recognition AF & AE function offers better portraits by detecting faces, and then automatically adjusting exposure and focus.

The Optio A30 LCD is easy to view outdoors even in bright sunlight because of 2.5 inch screen size, high resolution of 232,000 pixels, and an LCD booster function that improves screen brightness on demand. The screen also offers wide-angle viewing (160 degrees).

As a DivX Certified digital camera, the Optio A30 makes it easy for users to create their own media for both business and social purposes. Users can instantly record high-quality DivX video with the push of a button and discover simple playback on any of the DivX Certified consumer electronics devices available today. DivX also enhances the ease and quality of video clips posted to popular broadcast sites such as DivX Stage6.

Other features includes:

• Auto-tracking AF continuously focuses on a moving subject
• Compatible with new SDHC memory cards, in addition to conventional SD memory cards
• Mode Palette provides quick access to 15 shooting modes and 15 playback modes
• “Green button" to assign functions that are frequently used
• Approximately 22MB of built-in memory
• Calendar Display function allows image retrieval based on the capture date
• Easy searching and organizing of images on a PC using the Date Folder function
• FotoNation’s red-eye correction
• Includes the ACDSee for PENTAX image viewer/image management software
• Supports PictBridge, DPOF functions, Exif Print, and PRINT Image Matching III

Pricing and Availability

The Optio A30 will ship in late March with a price of $349.95 (US MSRP).

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PENTAX Imaging Company has announced the first two lenses in the new SMC PENTAX-DA* Series (pronounced PENTAX D.A. STAR SERIES). The SMC PENTAX-DA* 16-50mm F2.8 ED AL[IF]SDM wide angle zoom and the SMC PENTAX-DA* 50-135mm F2.8 ED [IF]SDM telephoto zoom feature a tightly sealed, weather-resistant and dust-resistant construction making both a perfect companion for the weather-sealed PENTAX K10D digital SLR.

Both lenses use the PENTAX KAF2 mount, which incorporates additional electrical contacts to drive a built-in supersonic motor used in autofocusing operation. A new SDM system has been incorporated for smoother, quieter autofocusing operation using a built-in supersonic motor. The focus mode is automatically switched to SDM-assisted autofocusing when the lens is mounted on the PENTAX K10D digital SLR camera body¹. When mounted on other PENTAX digital SLR camera bodies, the conventional autofocus mode (camera-mounted motor) is selected.

The lenses also feature the PENTAX original Quick-Shift Focus System for instant switching to manual-focus operation and PENTAX-original SP (Super Protect) coating to repel dust, water and grease.

The SMC PENTAX-DA* 16-50mm F2.8 ED AL[IF]SDM will ship in the April/May timeframe priced at $899.95 (US MSRP). The SMC PENTAX-DA* 50-135mm F2.8 ED [IF]SDM will ship at the same time for $999.95 (US MSRP).

See all Pentax Lenses at Amazon.com.