arhphotographic

Compared to the Pentax Z1 reviewed last week (one of the most complicated cameras I’ve tested so far), the Pentax MV seems positively spartan. However if you’re wanting a compact and simple to use SLR that taps into the rich supply of Pentax mount lenses, then I would proffer that you couldn’t do much wrong by choosing this camera.

Although it has an electronically controlled shutter that requires batteries to operate, it does have manual shutter speeds of 100th sec and bulb. So in the event the batteries die you can continue, albeit with the sunny 16 rule. The only other control to occupy the top plate is the film speed dial, which can double up as an exposure compensation dial.

The shutter is typical Pentax, reassuring. Click on the image below to hear for yourself

So I loaded up with some expired film which was rated at ISO 50 and went out with a 28-70mm f3.5-4.5 Pentax A zoom.

I’ve used a number of cameras that have a split prism focus, in fact I prefer them, so I was a little disconcerted to find a number of photos well out of focus. Hhmm??? I have the Takumar equivelent lens, so may need to go out again and check that its not the camera, or even my eyes!

The viewfinder is quite bright. The only information is a ‘traffic light’ system of exposure. The Red – Over exposed ; Yellow – Slow exposure and Green – correct exposure.

I had to work a little more in post processing but I think that was largely due to the expired film.

While it may not have the same level of control that the ME Super has, it clearly enjoys the same ability to produce good images. Pentax had distilled the image taking process down to the minimum with the MV. Because I like a little more control I found myself fequently saying “Is that it?” Perhaps that is where the strength of the MV lay. The camera really does become invisible.

I would like to sort out the issue mentioned earlier, so I will take it out for another test. Will I keep it? 🙂