K-5 Elecronic Level

Ericf · 2011-06-10T16:32:10+0100

In checking out my new K-5, I have taken a few pictures leveling the camera with the electronic level. I would say the level device is out - there is a definite horizon tilt on all those pictures! I also tried the option for automatic correction (of the horizon), and this appeared successfully to correct the tilt (I have only tried it once, and I suppose it could be that I just got it right in the first place)? It seems a slight omission that there is not an electronic adjustment to set the level to a correct reading in the first place, which would then allow for camera-to-camera differences in manufacture. Do others use the level, and do you find it useful / accurate?

Pentax Digital SLRsPentax Digital SLRs

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JAK JAK

4192 posts
16 years
Scarborough,
North Yorks.

Posted 16/06/2011 - 23:51 Link

simonkit wrote:

Good idea - just checked mine, it's actually level when showing 3 bars to the left in the viewfinder, now noted for future use!!

Mine's the same, 3 bars to the left. I don't really see the point in incorporating an electronic aid that isn't anything near accurate. Perhaps a software update is needed to add an adjustment setting to correct this error, or if that really is not possible then ditch the idea of including it altogether. It isn't any help at all.

John

John K

Plus Member womble womble

7684 posts
18 years
Hertfordshire,
mostly.

Posted 17/06/2011 - 08:28 Link

As someone keen on photographing buildings a level that isn't level is as much use as a chocolate teapot. In fact, less use because you can at least eat the chocolate teapot! I'll stick with the K20D and my little plastic hotshoe level...

K.

Kris Lockyear
It is an illusion that photos are made with the camera… they are made with the eye, heart and head. Henri Cartier-Bresson
Lots of film bodies, a couple of digital ones, too many lenses (mainly older glass) and a Horseman LE 5x4.

simonkit simonkit

2106 posts
19 years
Mold,
North Wales

Posted 17/06/2011 - 09:46 Link

womble wrote:
As someone keen on photographing buildings a level that isn't level is as much use as a chocolate teapot. In fact, less use because you can at least eat the chocolate teapot! I'll stick with the K20D and my little plastic hotshoe level...

K.

The response from Pentax is very disappointing, ok it's not a critical part of the camera but they use it to best effect in their promotional material so should really ensure that if it's not always 100% accurate from the factory users have the option of sorting it out themselves.

Simon

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