The passive five-point autofocus system ensures sharp and clear photos, even when subjects are off center or behind glass. The autoexposure and autoflash keeps subjects well exposed. You compose your shots with the "actual image" viewfinder, which is designed to provide an accurate preview of the finished photo.

Film handling is completely automatic--from loading to advancing to rewinding. You can switch in midroll from standard to panorama format to get that extra-wide shot; or, use the zoom macro to get close-ups of flowers or other detailed objects. The 10-second self-timer is always useful for self-portraits or group photos. You can also imprint the date (or day and time) onto your photographs to remember when a picture was taken. To conserve battery energy, the camera automatically shuts off after three minutes of no use.

The camera is really easy to use and if you have used any automatic camera, then this one can be mastered in absolutely no time. There are no extra frills, buttons & lights to confuse an automatic camera user. Just point, zoom & click.

The camera works perfect and the quality of the pictures is very impressive. I use ASA 200 or 400 and worked fine with both. A very good option to take along with the digital camera as a second option.


viewfinder is out of focus   December 26, 2003
7 out of 7 found this review helpful

I've experimented with this camera 3 times now including a DisneyWorld trip. The viewfinder is out of focus. Sometimes it's hard to find your subject in the viewfinder too. But lo and behold, the pix come out great! Not sure if the viewfinder problem is common but I didn't have time to return it for another. It's definately worth the $90!!!


Awesome Zoom and fast focus   November 9, 2003
122 out of 123 found this review helpful

I was looking for a camera that could take some knocks when I dont want to take my $1000 Nikon SLR around. I know that Pentax made excellent optics but this deal was much better than I anticipated.
PROs:
*FAST auto focus ..not sluggish like some inexpensive point and shoot caneras.
*Excellent Pentax glass lens. Not a cheap non branded piece of glass
* Multi zone focusing like my $1000 Nikon
*Long zoom that brings the image 4 times closer with no distortion like in a digital zoom camera

*No shutter lag as in all digital cameras
* Simple drop and load film loading
*Solid construction for a $150.00 camera.
*Free shipping!

Cons:
* Not pocket size, but controls are easy to accces for my large handed husband.
* no others that I found since having this for 60 days. I just bought another for a xmas gift today after I sale for $99!

Overall an outsatnding value that delivers picture quality [ I use Kodak Gold 400 speed] on par with SLR cameras.