I use YN560 both on and off-camera (using Cactus V4's) with my K-x...

Learning curve isn't too steep (imo) and its a powerful and pretty well made tool for the price...

I have no real need now for a Pttl/auto flash and can guess correct exposure to within one shot now... Often nailled on first shot...

Zack Arias (onelight) had a really good way of explaining manual flash exposure usage in easy to understand language...

I probably press the green button more than the shutter...

Offers more in the way of 'bokeh' and speed than the FA35 (f2 lens I have and love) or the DA35 (f2.4 but apparently great bokeh)...

DA35-LTD-Macro brings something really unique to the table in similar focal length... Slower AF (its a macro so much longer focus throw) but by all accounts a great 'do it all' favourite...

Just planting seeds...

My 2 lens kit K-x came with hood for 50-200(WR) and without on the DA18-55???

The 18-55 is now relegated to the 'stuffbag' in the cupboard anyway, so no great loss

If you want another 'fast' lens that doesn't clash with the fifty...

Sigma 30mm 1.4 ?

Gets good reviews (some say not sharp in corners - but that's not why you buy a 1.4 lens IMO) and a very usable focal length...

I totally agree... I bought my FA50-1.4 new and it did not come with a hood... I was a little dissapointed...

I think the kit-lens should also come with a hood provided to be honest...

But I've taken us off topic...

If someone offered me a swap for the 1.7 version against my 1.4... I'd say no... That extra tiny bit of speed could make or break the shot...

I've heard this too... But also heard that the addition of a hood to the FA50 levels the playing field somewhat...

Although I've never used the 1.7 version I can vouch for an increase in IQ on the 1.4 when a hood is added... Images are certainly more 'contrasty' making them at least 'look' sharper... Without the hood f2 was as wide as I'd go but I now have no qualms about shooting at 1.4...

Screw-on 49mm metal hood - less than a fiver from ebay including shipping from China -

I saw a rumour a while ago (on the USsite) that Pentax would be releasing a new TC/AF-adaptor this year to replace the FA version...

I've either missed the annoucement from Pentax or it hasn't happened yet(?)

I'm too poor right now to go for the FA-1.7/1.4-AF adaptor but deffo struggling with bug-shots with just the 100mm macro lens, keep spooking them off by going in to close!

Hi and welcome...

Always envious of people who live near the coast... Looking forward to seeing some pictures!

2nd suggestion of a fast prime lens...

DA35-2.4 or an FA50-1.4 (is the DA50-1.8 on sale yet anyone?)