Pentax K-50 Digital SLR Camera Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of your Pentax K-50 Digital SLR Camera. The Pentax K-50 is equipped with a 16-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, offering high-resolution imaging. Key features include a fast continuous shooting rate of six frames per second, high sensitivity up to ISO 51200 for low-light conditions, and an innovative in-body shake reduction system. The camera also features an advanced autofocus module and PENTAX-original weather-sealing for durability in various environments. This kit includes the DA L 18-55mm WR f3.5-5.6 lens.

Figure 1: Front view of the Pentax K-50 camera with the DA L 18-55mm WR lens.

2. What's in the Box

Verify that all items are present in the packaging:

• Pentax K-50 Camera Body
• DA L 18-55mm WR f3.5-5.6 Lens
• Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery
• Battery Charger
• Strap
• USB Cable
• Body Cap
• Lens Caps (front and rear)

3. Setup

3.1. Battery Installation and Charging

1. Open the battery compartment cover located at the bottom of the camera.
2. Insert the rechargeable lithium-ion battery with the correct orientation, ensuring it clicks into place.
3. Close the battery compartment cover securely.
4. To charge the battery, remove it from the camera and place it in the provided battery charger. Connect the charger to a power outlet. The charging indicator will show the charging status.

The K-50 also supports AA batteries with an optional AA battery holder (not included).

3.2. Attaching the Lens

1. Remove the body cap from the camera and the rear lens cap from the DA L 18-55mm WR lens.
2. Align the red mounting index on the lens with the red index on the camera body.
3. Insert the lens into the camera mount and turn it clockwise until it clicks into place.
4. Remove the front lens cap before shooting.

3.3. Inserting a Memory Card

1. Open the memory card slot cover on the side of the camera.
2. Insert an SD, SDHC, or SDXC memory card with the label facing the front of the camera until it clicks.
3. Close the memory card slot cover securely.

Figure 2: Right side view of the Pentax K-50, illustrating the memory card compartment.

4. Operating the Camera

4.1. Power On/Off

Rotate the power switch located around the shutter button to turn the camera on or off.

4.2. Basic Shooting Modes

The mode dial on top of the camera allows selection of various shooting modes:

• Auto Picture (AUTO): Camera automatically selects optimal settings.
• Program (P): Camera sets aperture and shutter speed, user can shift program line.
• Aperture Priority (Av): User sets aperture, camera sets shutter speed.
• Shutter Priority (Tv): User sets shutter speed, camera sets aperture.
• Manual (M): User sets both aperture and shutter speed.
• Scene (SCN): Select from various scene modes (e.g., Portrait, Landscape, Macro).

4.3. Focusing

The K-50 features an 11-point autofocus system. The AF mode switch is located on the side of the camera body.

• AF.S (Single AF): Focus locks when the shutter button is half-pressed.
• AF.C (Continuous AF): Focus continuously tracks moving subjects.
• MF (Manual Focus): Focus is adjusted manually using the lens focus ring.

Figure 3: Left side view of the Pentax K-50, highlighting the AF mode selector.

4.4. ISO Sensitivity

Adjust the ISO sensitivity to control the camera's light-gathering capability. The K-50 supports ISO speeds up to 51200, allowing for shooting in very low light conditions. Access ISO settings via the dedicated ISO button or through the menu.

4.5. Shake Reduction (SR)

The K-50 incorporates an in-body, sensor-shift Shake Reduction mechanism. This system automatically compensates for camera shake, providing sharper images with any mounted lens. Ensure SR is enabled in the camera settings for optimal results, especially in low light or with longer focal lengths.

4.6. Using the Built-in Flash

The K-50 features a built-in pop-up flash. In Auto Picture mode, the flash may deploy automatically in low light. For manual control, press the flash button to raise the flash. Flash modes include Auto, On, Off, Slow Synch, and Rear Curtain Synch.

Figure 4: Pentax K-50 with the built-in flash activated.

4.7. Video Recording

The camera can record full 1080p HD video. To start recording, set the mode dial to the movie icon and press the red video recording button. Video is saved in MPEG-4/H.264 format.

4.8. Image Playback

Press the Playback button (triangle icon) to review captured photos and videos on the 3-inch LCD screen. Use the four-way controller to navigate through images.

Figure 5: Rear view of the Pentax K-50, displaying the LCD and control layout.

4.9. Eye-Fi Card Compatibility

The K-50 supports Eye-Fi wireless SD cards, enabling automatic transmission of images to a smartphone or other compatible device for easy sharing. Refer to your Eye-Fi card's instructions for setup and usage.

5. Maintenance

5.1. Cleaning the Camera

• Camera Body: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the camera body. For stubborn dirt, lightly dampen the cloth with water. Avoid using organic solvents.
• Lens: Use a lens brush or blower to remove dust. For smudges, use a specialized lens cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth.
• Sensor: Sensor cleaning should be performed with extreme care. If dust spots appear on images, consider using the camera's built-in sensor cleaning function or consult a professional service center.

5.2. Weather Sealing

The Pentax K-50 features a weather-sealed, dustproof, and coldproof design with 81 seals, allowing for reliable operation in challenging environmental conditions, including rain, sand, and temperatures down to -10°C (14°F). While robust, avoid submerging the camera in water. Ensure all port covers and battery/card doors are securely closed when operating in adverse conditions.

Figure 6: Internal diagram illustrating the weather-sealing points of the K-50.

6. Troubleshooting

• Camera does not power on: Check if the battery is correctly inserted and fully charged. Ensure the battery compartment cover is closed.
• Images are blurry: Verify that the lens is clean. Check focus mode (AF.S/AF.C/MF) and ensure the camera is focusing correctly. Enable Shake Reduction.
• Memory card error: Ensure the memory card is inserted correctly. Try reformatting the card (this will erase all data). Use a compatible SD/SDHC/SDXC card.
• Flash does not fire: Check flash settings. Ensure the flash is popped up. In some modes, the flash may be suppressed.
• No image on LCD during Live View: Ensure Live View is activated. Check display settings.

For more detailed troubleshooting, refer to the full user manual or contact customer support.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

The Pentax K-50 camera comes with a 1-year limited warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For technical support, service, or further inquiries, please refer to the official Pentax support channels or visit their website.