Pentax K200D
The EISA European Camera of the Year for 2007-2008 is an entry-level camera with a few cool tricks up its sleeve: basic dust- and weatherproofing,a decent 10 megapixel sensor, and image stabilization that even works with older lenses. The range of possible exposure durations is impressive, from 30 seconds down to 1/400th of a second.
As with many smaller SLRs, the viewfinder is relatively small, so manual focusing can be difficult. Battery life is good with the rechargeable lithium unit and AA batteries can be used when necessary.
The fact that the K200D is a little obtuse and intimidating for novice users but not seemingly advanced enough in some ways to entice mid-level buyers and beyond may be its primary flaw, however, as many shooters in both camps may never give this camera a chance for those very reasons.
The combination of Pentax body and Pentax lens works well. The lens is well made, focuses quickly and reasonably quietly and has a usable manual focus ring
a great camera for the beginner.
…provides a good mix of manual and automatic settings that is designed to give creative photographers the control they need while providing some guidance to less experienced shooters.
With the right processing the K200D is actually capable of producing clean, very detailed and pin-sharp images that should satisfy even the most dedicated pixel-peepers.
The latest entry level model from Pentax is the K200D, replacing last years K100D Super. Rather than being a complete new camera the K200D is more an upgrade, but is not without some interesting and very useful features.
A bright and clear 2.7 inch color LCD on the back of the K200D allows quick access to the menu system and image review. Featuring a wide-view design, the LCD allows you to view images on the monitor over a 160 degree angle of view.
The entry-level K200D has similar dust- and moisture-proof sealing, the same built-in anti-shake and dust removal and many of the same functions.
We’ve seen the megapixels grow to the point that entry-level models now sport 10MP sensors. Advanced color controls let you shift the white balance to add a little warmth or compensate for especially strange lighting
The Pentax K20D also has a dynamic range expansion mode, which Pentax claim can yield an extra 1EV of dynamic range. Presumably this is similar to the “Highlight Tone Priority” which is now found on new Canon EOS bodies.