I have an *ist Ds as my main camera but I do carry a canon A700 in my bum bag for unforeseen opportunities.

I have no quibble with my Sigma 70 -300 even though it is the more modest DL version. I particularly like its macro mode. You have to remember that this is a budget lens and if you want the best you'll have to go for a Pentax lens but that will cost you a lot more.

Most people just want a good lens within their budget, I'd recommend the APO 70-300 Sigma if you are only spending £150-ish.

But Molly says she can't upload them.!!! How are you doing this? I don't use a card reader, the camera is a card reader anyway. Just plug in the lead, camera to USB port, swich camera on and go to My Computer. Double click on the new drive (probably labelled F) the files should open up but they will just be raw icons.....not thumbnails. Is this what is happening and making you think that they aren't uploading??.

You can copy all these to a folder of your choice. The Pentax browser that came with your camera will allow you to see them.

From here you can save it as a tiff, then your windows explorer will be able to read it.
I use Rawshooter Essentials which you can still download for free until Adobe publishes its Lightroom. This does a lot more for you.

I hope any of this enables you to view your raw images.

Get back to us and let us know how you get on.
Happy new imaging year!

Thanks for all the comments. I'm on a strict budget and they do seem relatively expensive. I may have to compromise and end up with some Sigma lenses. For instance I'd save a lot if I got a sigma 105mm maco lens. The don't do the 70mm for Pentax. This is my next port of call.

The road map was helpful but some are a long way off like a fast 300mm which is what I'd like for birds but I may never be able to afford that.

I've just been on the Pentax website but info is very minimal. Does anyone have any idea what new lenses are in the pipeline. I got my Ds two years ago but the selection of lenses seems limited unless you go to third party manufacturers.

I'd like to get the best I can but I'm at the stage now where I may change brands if I upgrade. Should I really be bothered by this or should I include the Samsung ones in my calculations if they are compatible.

Any advice for a waverer.....LOL

One or two quite inspirational images here. I've often thought of a project at my daughters dance school

I have an ist Ds but find the pentax lenses pricey. I have no problems with my Sigma lenses, my favourite being a 28-80 macro at 1:2 which is a great walkarounder.

There is also a much wider choice available.

Don't wish to appear cheeky by putting my daughter's weblink on here but she makes a mean bean bag at a great price.

http://myweb.tiscali.co.uk/loweswood/index/image-support.html

Very crisp clock picture. I'm sure you'll enjoy it a lot.
Gerry B

I was put off by the price but as I speak a little german I surfed across the channel and found them for about £12. search under "fernausloser"