Using two cameras together it's useful if they are the same and the K10D and K20D are essentially the same. That's what I'd go for.

The newer technology won't make that much difference but faster handling might, IMHO anyway.

I do recommend pentax but always suggest that people handle different cameras to see what suits them. All modern DSLRs will offer acceptable results, bujt with a different character to each.

Pentax excels in ergonomics (handling), colour and image quality, elegance of engineering and quality of lenses. It out-performs many more expensive cameras and always has.

I have here another 50mm f1.8 AF lens from another manufacturer of note and on careful examination it isn't nearly so well made or designed as the SMC Pentax-FA 50mm lenses. This is just one example of the satisfaction I can get out of the elegance and simplicity of Pentax design.

Would a ring flash be helpful?

They're not the same case. The Spotmatic ones were far better in many ways. Leather, screw on base to retain camera....but they might be close enough to fit. I've never tried. Look for a KM case also, which is basically the same as a K1000.

The MX and ME style cases (these are different by the way) will not be suitable.

It's a great idea, but too far away for me I'm afraid.

But it would make a fantastic meeting and photo shoot with some new challenges for the photographers.

I only mentioned her as she is from Oldham and one of the best judges that we get.

You know Christine Widdall then Haydn?

The focus ring has a zipping noise if turned quickly, not loud but definitely there.

The zoom action is smooth and firm, just right in fact, and it doesn't creep when carried. It has a very soft swooshing sound as it's zoomed.

Is that what you expected?

The Pentax shutter is rated for 100,000 exposures, so I wouldn't worry. Some people shoot more, some less, but less than 10,000 is barely run in.

Sounds good.