I am guessing that the camera is in Autofocus mode. As such, the camera won't fire till the subject is in focus. If you turn to Manual focus, it should work.

There is a focus assist function where you press the shutter button half way and then twist the focus on the lens and the camera will indicate when in focus (with a beep if you still have this custom setting set).

Did a search on walking poles and came up with this Leki Sierra FotoSystem.

I went for the Sigma 18-200 becuase the Tamron 18-250 (and I believe that the Pentax is based on that one) was too noisy and slow on focus and also a be stiff on manual focus!

I tried the Sigma 10-20 once and it is a great lens. Thing is you already have 18mm so going wider will give you a lot to play with.

On the monopod side take a look at the Velbon Sherpa Pro CF7 and this Manfrotto is a bit different.

On my home monitor, exposure looks good, the sharpening has exagurated the lines under the eyes though.

I took a picture of my son in sun glases, it works for me!

I love the shot!

Just two things, it appears a bit under exposed so could do with a bit of levels tweeking and there seems to be some CA above the glases.

A great picture, full of personality though.

Welcome to the forum, Amber.

This is a common problem with direct flash you may want to try a flash deffuser such as the Omni-Bounce diffuser. Though using this will reduce your flash output requiring compensation of about 1 stop on the flash output, though you will need to experiment with this to find the right setting.

Before you try one of these, you may want to try greseproof paper or tissue paper over the front of the flash head atached with an elastic band.

Hope this gives you some ideas and this is much cheaper than getting a bigger flash that will only do the same thing, just at a greater distance!

When browsing for flash sync cables I came across one at ProMaster and wondered, firstly if anyone had tried one (or something similar) and if any one knew if there was a UK distributor?

For an occational use, the cost of the Pentax adaptors and cord are not really justifiable for me. I have a current set up that allows for manual sync. And there is of course wireless. However, cables are good for quick flexable hand held approach to lighting.

Finally, managed to get some images of the lens:

I am looking to sell two of my lenses to make space in my camera bag:

Sigma 70-210mm F4-5.6 UC-II (KAF) circa 1998 (boxed complete)
Sigma 75-300mm F4.5-5.6 Zoom II (KA) circa 1988 (lens case, no box)

I have no idea of market value, just looking for a good home for them - both lenses have served me well, but I need to make space for my new 70-300 Tamron which I can use on my MZ5n too.

Can send pictures - PM me if you are interested.

According to Morris Photo site, the Pentax 10-17 has a 180 degree angle of view. It might be worth checking this one out:

Pentax Fish Eye Lens