1. Product Overview
The PENTAX K-5 is a robust and versatile 16.3 MP Digital SLR camera designed for advanced photography. It combines high image quality with a durable, compact body, making it suitable for various shooting conditions.
Figure 1: Front view of the Pentax K-5 Digital SLR Camera body.
Key Features:
- 16.3-megapixel CMOS Sensor: Delivers high-resolution images with improved noise performance.
- Rugged Magnesium Alloy Body: Features a durable yet lightweight construction with 77 weather seals for dustproof, weather-resistant, and cold-resistant operation down to -10°C.
- 3-Inch High-Resolution LCD: A large 921,000-dot LCD monitor for clear viewing and Live View shooting.
- 100% Field of View Optical Viewfinder: Provides a precise view of the scene for accurate composition.
- Wide ISO Range: Supports ISO 80-12800, expandable to ISO 51200, for excellent low-light performance.
- Full HD Video Recording: Captures 1080p HD video at 25 frames per second, with support for an external 3.5mm stereo microphone.
- High-Speed Continuous Shooting: Achieves up to 7 frames per second, ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects.
- Advanced Autofocus System: Features an 11-point SAFOX IX+ system with a dedicated AF assist lamp and light wavelength sensor for fast and accurate focusing.
- In-Body Shake Reduction (SR): Effectively compensates for camera shake, ensuring sharp images.
- HDR (High Dynamic Range) Function: Creates a single composite image with extended gradation from multiple exposures.
- DR II (Dust Removal II) Mechanism: Helps keep the image sensor free from dust.
2. Getting Started
2.1 Unpacking the Box
Before using your Pentax K-5, ensure all components are present:
- K-5 Digital SLR Body
- USB Cable (I-USB7)
- AV Cable (I-AVC7)
- Strap (O-ST53)
- ME Viewfinder Cap
- Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery (D-LI90)
- Battery Charger (D-BC90)
- AC Plug Cord
- Software (CD-ROM)
2.2 Battery Installation
Insert the D-LI90 rechargeable lithium-ion battery into the battery compartment located at the bottom of the camera. Ensure it clicks securely into place. Charge the battery fully before first use using the provided charger.
2.3 Memory Card Insertion
The K-5 supports SDXC memory cards (via firmware update). Open the memory card slot cover on the side of the camera and insert the SD card with the label facing the front of the camera until it clicks. Close the cover securely.
Figure 2: Side view of the Pentax K-5, highlighting the memory card slot.
2.4 Attaching a Lens
Align the red dot on the lens with the red dot on the camera's lens mount. Rotate the lens clockwise until it clicks into place. To remove, press the lens release button and rotate counter-clockwise.
3. Basic Operation
3.1 Powering On/Off
To power on the camera, rotate the power switch located around the shutter button to the 'ON' position. To power off, rotate it to 'OFF'.
3.2 Using the LCD Screen and Viewfinder
The K-5 features a 3-inch LCD screen for reviewing images, accessing menus, and Live View shooting. The optical viewfinder provides a nearly 100% field of view, ensuring that what you see is what you capture in your photo.
Figure 3: Back view of the Pentax K-5, showing the LCD screen and control buttons.
3.3 Adjusting ISO Sensitivity
The K-5 offers a wide ISO range from 80 to 12800, expandable to 51200. Higher ISO settings are beneficial in low-light conditions, allowing for faster shutter speeds and reducing the need for flash, while maintaining good noise control.
3.4 Focusing System
The camera is equipped with the SAFOX IX+ autofocus system, featuring 11 sensor points (9 cross-type). This system provides fast and accurate focusing. An integrated wavelength sensor improves accuracy by factoring in the light source. The AF assist lamp aids in achieving focus in poorly lit environments.
Figure 4: Side view of the Pentax K-5, showing the RAW/Fx button and AF mode switch.
3.5 Continuous Shooting
The K-5 supports high-speed continuous shooting at approximately 7 frames per second, allowing you to capture sequences of fast-moving action with precision.
4. Advanced Features
4.1 High Dynamic Range (HDR)
The HDR function allows the camera to combine three images taken at different exposures into a single composite image. This results in a photograph with an extended dynamic range, preserving detail in both highlights and shadows, especially useful for high-contrast scenes.
4.2 Custom Image and Digital Filters
Personalize your images with the Custom Image function to select desired finishing touches. The versatile Digital Filter function allows for creative processing of recorded images directly in-camera, including options like extracting colors or applying watercolor effects.
4.3 Video Recording
The Pentax K-5 captures beautiful, true-to-life movie clips in 16:9 full HD proportions (1920 x 1080 pixels) at a frame rate of 25 frames per second. It also supports an external stereo microphone for enhanced audio quality.
Video 1: An overview of the Pentax K-5 camera's features, including its robust build, high-resolution sensor, and video capabilities.
5. Maintenance
5.1 Dust Removal (DR II)
The K-5 features the DR II (Dust Removal II) mechanism, which vibrates the image sensor at high speed to dislodge dust particles. This helps maintain image quality by preventing dust spots from appearing on your photos.
5.2 Cleaning the Camera Body and Lens
Regularly clean the camera body with a soft, dry cloth. For the lens, use a lens brush or air blower to remove loose dust, then gently wipe with a microfiber lens cloth and lens cleaning solution if necessary. Avoid touching the sensor directly.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Pentax K-5, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:
- Camera not powering on: Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly inserted.
- Images are blurry: Check focus settings (autofocus or manual focus), ensure sufficient lighting, and consider using a tripod or increasing ISO in low light.
- Dust spots on images: Utilize the DR II mechanism or perform a manual sensor cleaning if necessary.
- Memory card error: Reinsert the memory card, try a different card, or format the card (note: formatting will erase all data).
- Flash not firing: Check flash mode settings and ensure the flash is properly raised or attached.
For more detailed troubleshooting or persistent issues, refer to the full product manual or contact Pentax customer support.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 5.16 x 2.87 x 3.82 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.63 pounds |
| Item Model Number | K-5 Black Body |
| Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. |
| Compatible Mountings | Pentax KAF2, Pentax KAF3 |
| Aspect Ratio | 3:2 |
| Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
| Supported File Format | RAW |
| Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift |
| Maximum Focal Length | 50 Millimeters |
| Optical Zoom | 1 x |
| Maximum Aperture | 3.5 Millimeters |
| Expanded ISO Minimum | 80 |
| Metering Description | Multi, Center-weighted, Spot |
8. Warranty and Support
This product comes with a 90-day parts and labor warranty. For any issues or support, please refer to the official Pentax support channels or the full product manual.
Legal Disclaimer: FULL 14 DAY NO HASSLE SATISFACTION GUARANTEE AND A 90 DAY PARTS AND LABOR WARRANTY. SERIAL #4008880
