« [ REVIEW — Nikon Coolpix 5900 ] | Main | [ REVIEW — Canon S70 & G6 ] »
April 29, 2005
[ REVIEW — Pentax Optio 750Z ]
PENTAX Optio 750Z digital camera
Price: $995
Rating: 4.5 stars
The low-down: The Pentax Optio 750Z is a serious camera for the serious photographer. Not only does it have all the desirable features of good optical viewfinder and complete manual over-ride of all settings, it actually looks like a camera.
The retro styling of the 750Z will immediately appeal to any persons old enough to have cut their picture-taking teeth on classic German cameras. The front body even sports a faux leather insert around the lens and that in turn is surrounded by a thin chrome strip. It looks superb and signals that this is a real camera and not a gadget.
The control layout is exceptionally good with every important function (except ISO settings) accessible without going into menus. The “front lever” on the mode knob is really clever -- in capture mode it gives immediate control over exposure compensation.
The 7 megapixel sensor and the 37~187mm (film equivalent) zoom lens combine with good auto white balance to give photos that are sharp, detailed, accurately coloured and beautifully exposed.
Macro mode is particularly good on the 750Z.
Like this: The optical viewfinder has dioptre adjustment for spectacle wearers. Metering and focussing modes are user-selectable. The camera has a bulk and heft that make it feel just right in the hand. It also has a swivelling LCD screen.
Dislike that: It is quibbling, but a camera of this quality should come with RAW capture mode. Still, the TIFF format gives outstanding image quality.
Parting shot: The Optio 750Z takes 3D photos -- sort of. The subject has to be static. It’s a bit of fun but not terribly useful. However, this is a highly recommended camera. It is comparable with the excellent Canon G6 which costs $200 more. And the Pentax wins the beauty competition hands down.
*
Posted by terry at April 29, 2005 06:15 PM
