All my weather resistance cameras and lenses - K10D, K5, K3, K30 and my three DA*series lenses have been out in all sorts of weather, some of it torrential rain and blizzards. I've never experienced the slightest problem, other than trying to keep the front element dry so the image isn't blurred with rain drops.
David.

Jessops store in the Metrocentre on Tyneside has Pentax cameras and lenses. And staff who can discuss Pentax models with authority.
David

Whenever a steam locomotive turns out to haul a heritage train on British main lines hordes of photographers turn up to grab the best positions. My impression is that there are loads of Canons, slightly fewer Nikons, then Pentax, Sony and Olympus in roughly equal numbers. I've seen quite a lot of older Pentax cameras from film days still in use - perhaps steam train enthusiasts are nostalgic by nature.
The worrying trend is for those huge lap top type devices being brandished in tight spaces, blocking the view of more serious photographers trying to get decent shots.
David

Terrific results all technically clear and sharp and also summing up the atmosphere of the event. It makes a great documentary set and your bonus was the appearance of a genuinely talented 'celebrity', not merely someone who is famous for being famous.
When you get results like this with your Pentaxes it makes me wonder why pros so often need Nikon or Canon bodies costing twice as much to get similar results.
David

We speak perfectly good broken English up here in the North East.
David

At this moment I've no ambition to buy a full frame Pentax body; my K30, K5 and K3 fulfil all my photographic needs. Should the day come when I do decide I can't live without FF I still have 1990s vintage FA series 28-80 and FA 80-200mm zooms from my film days. But image quality wise they are not in the same class as my DA* 16-50, 50-135 zooms and DA* 200m lenses. I also have a rather fine A series 50mm 1.7 but it isn't auto focus.
Incidentally several of you have suggested the DA*300 should be FF compatible. If so will my DA*200 also be compatible?
David

Welcome from me too. Although I was born in Newcastle and sent much of my growing up years in Consett Co. Durham before moving to Durham City I lived in Bewdley between the ages of 5-9. Its a lovely old town and I often still visit there..
David

Welcome back Ted.
David

It doesn't matter what camera you used Andrew, this is a super panel of pictures which would look good on an exhibition wall. I'd be surprised if you couldn't get decent A3 prints from these.
David

Well done Ian, its a super image and very original. I'm sure the judges were well impressed.
David