K100D Question...

I have not had my Pentax K100D for very long...since last week can anyone tell me, am I right in thinking, that this camera only takes pictures by using the view finder...I only ask because with all of my previous digital cameras, I was able to view the subject via the LCD screen...does the K100D not allow this or have I just not found the correct way of turning it on. I can view the menu via the LCD screen but not the subject...thanks in advance

You are correct - the LCD is only for viewing after the event.

It is only compact digital cameras that have "live preview" on the LCD. It is because they are fundamentally different to digital SLR cameras. You K100D has a mirror and a shutter between the sensor and the lens. For the CCD to "see" what the lens sees, the mirror has to flip up, and the shutter has to open and close. (And the electronic design of the CCDs are different too! But the SLR is capable of much better quality images!)

It's the price you pay for a nice bright, clear viewfinder with true through-the-lens view

EDIT: You can playback the images through the LCD on the K100D, just not see it "live".

Matt

Thanks for the quick reply...thought I'd bought a faulty camera for a minute your explanation is much appreciated. many thanks

I'd suggest you get an SLR camera book (doesn't matter if it is film as the principles are practically the same). This will tell you how the camera works and how to get the best out of it. It is no point and shoot and you can get a hell of a lot more out of it by knowing what you are doing.

I recommend the Magic Lantern Guide for the Pentax K100D/K110D. It's like a user friendly manual.

you made a great choice in camera there.
You'll be getting better and better pictures, as you learn.
take the time to learn, and you'll find yourself getting a lot of enjoyment too.

Is this book easily available to buy in any book shop...I'm in the UK. Thanks

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Pentax-K100D-K110D-Magic-Lantern/dp/1600590861

Thanks very much...

Book arrived yesterday and it's been a real help..much easier than the manual that came with the camera...once again, thanks for the help

You're quite welcome.

Now we wait for the K10D Magic Lantern Guide.

Or maybe they think those using a K10D should be smart enough to figure it out themselves...

I think either that or have a little more money than sense. Unlike the Nikon user I spotted at Glastonbury (not the festival) taking all his shots on auto on a D200. That is one expensive point and shoot... If you have money to throw away and think it will make your photos better...

as a new user to digital on my K110 i have a preview button which shows a pic on the screen with out righting it to your card this all so works if you connect your camera with your av lead to a TV or PC this only works tho in a Studio tho

Out in October, apparently..

http://tinyurl.com/yw6ec9