Hi Kim

I didn't really answer the question, did I?

As far as I can recall from the last time I used the chromogenic films, the filter effects are similar to conventional films.

In practical terms I would still use a red filter for most of my monochrome work even with C41 process films.

I think the main drawback is that the image is made up of dyes instead of silver and it lacks the absolute "sparkle" that you can get with the silver-rich films such as Plus-X, Tri-X, FP4 and, to a lesser extent, HP5.

I've gone right back to Kodak Tr-X, which is fast (400 ISO) and has a wonderfully tight and crisp grain structure which gives a terrfic texture to landscape work. For portraits I would use a finer grain fim such as Plus-X or T-Max 100.

There are some lower cost lenses in the Pentax range, and I would assume that if it does not say SMC then it has single coating. It depends what sort of picture size you are printing to whether or not a lens is satisfactory. I am convinced that soem low cost zooms are only designed to make 13 x 18 cm prints, so if you want 16 x 12 inch prints then you need to be a bit more careful in choice.

I would avoid any lens that is loose in construction.

I think they were on offer for £6.95 via Pentax User! I'm not sure if they still are.

Why not check out the accessories sale list in PENTAX USER or on this web site?

I don't think that price is the only factor. I prefer my films to be boxed and not split down from multi-packs and long expiry dates are also needed. Then, fast and reliable delivery and a willingness to act promptly when things go wrong. All these things have a price and as long as we are in the right "ball park" then I will be happy to pay a little more.

try the Fuji website to get the technical details of all their films. Also don't forget Kodak!

My votes for favourite films:

Fuji Velvia 50 and 100
Kodachrome if it's processed properly (debateable these days)

Kodak Tri-X
Kodak Plus-X
Kodak T-Max 100
Kodak High Speed Infra-Red

In the end, sticking with one film will enable you to explore its characteristics and get the most out of it in all situations.

This is so rare that I think you will be extremely lucky to find one. If you really want this lens, I don't see much alternative to phoning every supplier in the magazines and asking.

You could also put a favourite search on eBay for up to 365 days and if the item come up you will receive an e-mail.

Good luck!

The polarity simply means that the + and - poles of the battery should be the right way round.

Looking at the battery in its compartment in the base of the Spotmatic, the - should be facing you. In the Spotmatic F and subsequent Pentaxes of the K and M series the + should be facing you.

If you get it wrong, the meter won't work, so just swap it round!

The PX400 Mercury cell (1.35v) is no longer available, but the Wein zinc/air relacement works fine. Cost is around £5.50 and it is obtaianble from Jessops or The Small Battry Company amongst others.

If you buy a Wein cell, activate it by removing the sticker and wait at least 30 minutes for it to start working properly.

If the meter does not seem to be working, make sure the battery polarity is correct.

If the battery you have came with the camera, it is quite possibly dead and in need of repklacement.

Using the K mount adapter, all 42mm screw thread lenses can be used on Pentax K mount cameras, right up to the current KAF2 autofocus mount. Full marks to Pentax for preserving a remarkable degree of compatibility.