I had an optech strap (one withe the quick release) and it was sooo comfortable. When I get my K20D that is the first accessory I will be purchasing, for sure.

Whilst I am thinking about it - how weather proof is "weather proof", bith on the K20d body and also the DA* lenses with weather sealing? Can they handle a downpour, or just light rain?

Thanks, James

Wow - thanks Hefty1, you know your lenses.

Thanks, James

Nice gear!

Does anyone know what Pentax's long term plans are re: bodies? Is anyone worried by Sony's intent on World domination?

Just wondered whether a full size sensor is in the pipeline - what comes after the K20d except better LCD / HD video???

James

Hi John,

Nice recommendation - that would do for my Macro as well as for a good portrait lens!

Will look at second hand once I have mastered the original 2 I will be buying.

James

Hi guys,

Been calling all over the place today and no-one near me has a K20d. Decided to go to a pro centre in Altrincham to have a look at the K200 and some lenses. Felt nice and chunky, and the lenses looked gorgeous as well. I asked if they offered finance, and because they do not, I can not afford to purchase from them unfortunately. Same with SRS Microsystems.

It looks like I am going to have to go with either Jessops or Warehouse Express. Jessops is good because I can take the camera back if there is anything wrong (but I don't like Jessops as a brand). Warehouse Express is good because it is not Jessops, but would not be able to bob into one of their shops.

Anyway, will assess that and see who I can knock down in price most!

So, I have chosen the K20d with a 16-45mm lens, which leaves a single focal length prime to go with them. I just want to exhaust all avenues before pulling the trigger on the 50mm f1.4 FA, so what do you all think of these other alternatives?

- Pentax 35mm f2.8 Macro Limited Lens - £330
- Pentax 40mm f2.8 SMC DA Limited Lens - £235
- Pentax 50mm f1.4 FA Lens - £169
- Pentax 50mm F2.8 SMC D FA Macro Lens - £380
- Pentax 70mm f2.4 DA Limited Lens - £349

Macros look interesting as I have always wanted to get into a bit of Macro photography with insects and things, but perhaps I am best off getting a second hand lens for "playing around" with. My brains says just get the 50mm f1.4, but I like the look of the "Limited Lenses"!!! Always have liked the idea of spending more money when something else will do the job perfectly well.

Anyways, best do some work ....

Let me know your thoughts.

Thanks, James

Thanks for the advice. Surely, if that is the case, I am better off saving money and going for the DA 16-45, and spending what I save on the 50 f1.4? I am not made of money, unfortunately!!

James

Been reading up on the DA* 16-50 and seen a few sample photos as well. Would I be right in saying that if I got this, I could do without a 50mm prime (f1.4). Keen to get good Bokeh for portrait photos on whichever lens I choose, and the sample photos seem to be able to do this.

Also, I had a really bad experience for a Nikon 18-70mm kit lens on my D70 either getting some crap inside it, or perhaps paint flaking off! Anyways, half my photos from a trip to Oz had a rather intrusive blub on them - it was definitely in the lens because I could see it when looking into it when off teh camera body!

Thanks, James

The Da* 16-50 looks a gorgeous piece of kit! May have to look at that as well!!

I went to the Trafford Centre on Sunday. The sales guy in Jessops was very honest and basically said that the cabinet that used to hous Pentax / Olympus etc kit had been purchased by Sony who had thrown a lot of cash at them to stock their cameras exclusively in that old cabinet. As a result other cameras were now "kept in the back" - so you really had to ask for them, instead of them being on show.

I really dislike Sony!!

James

Thanks.

Everyone seems, well so much nicer than the people on the Nikonians forums!!

I have looked at both SRS and Warehouse Express, but I really need to hold one and have a play, to check I am happy with the weight, buttons, menus etc.

I'll try to get to the one in Altrincham (Kamara) and go from there.

I am thinking K20d with the 16-45mm kit lens and also get the 50mm f1.7 at the same time.

Once I have played with these, I'll look at some secondhand bargains for longer range and macro stuff.

James