bulb mode on the K20d...

is it possible to change it so as the shutter opens with one press of the shutter button, then closes with the next? As far as i can see, you need to manually hold the button to keep the shutter open?

I'm afraid your observation is correct. However, for bulb exposures you would need a tripod and a cable release anyway to avoid camera shake, and the cable releases can normally be locked to keep the shutter open.

Try SRS I do believe they carry both for the K20D.

Be aware that the IR remotes cannot be locked off and you have to continually press the button on them. Also if you slightly move the remote off the line of site it will close the shutter.
This may not be a problem for you, but it was for me so I went for the C-205 cable release in the end.

I bought a cheap Chinese cable release off ebay to experiment with. It is a bit plasticky & wouldn't take much abuse, but it has 2 stage button (same as shutter half press) & a manual lock off for use with bulb or even focus trap if you're a twitcher.

Great if you don't think it'll get much use. I know now that I do need one so if it breaks I'll probably invest in a sturdier option. It uses a 2.5mm jack which is the same used for some Canon cameras. So there are plenty of options out there.

Absolutely spot on don't try "Bulb" as hand held, it wont work a good tripod is a must, as is a good cable release.

Roscoe

So only cable release remotes have 'half-press' (2-stages) and 'lock' options?

Yes. And they don't require a line of sight. Or batteries. And they're usually cheaper.

Thanks for the replies, much appreciated

Is this something that could be changed in a firmware update, or will it always be this way?

I'm going to go have a look at those cable releases... this could get to be quite an expensive past-time! At least i don't need to spend money on film and processing!

It *could* be changed but I very much doubt it will. Cable releases don't need to be expensive; I bought mine from a Chinese eBay vendor and it cost around £5 including postage - good enough for the job.

Since bulb exposure need a rock steady camera to avoid blur, I cannot see a point in changing the firmware at all. You would still have to use a tripod and a cable release.

I bought mine from a Hong Kong based company, less than USD 5.00 postage included, which does not seem expensive.

[quote:3496ace15f="Understatement" ]... this could get to be quite an expensive past-time! [/quote]could......
must have gone wrong somewhere - Don't tell the other half

I am almost afraid to say this in case I get kicked off the forum, but this is the best cable release I've found for Pentax cameras:

http://www.7dayshop.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=777_1&products_id=102557

Well made and as cheap as the chinese knock offs, just don't read the brand name!

Boo hiss....

Mongoose: why, just consider changing your nick to 'Borg'. And than you can safely assimilate the C-word brand using black permanent marker + some sticker