This is totally misleading and inaccurate.

When you edit a JPG image and then save it, some image data may be lost, that is true.

It is not true if files are simply copied from one medium to another. You can do this ad-infinitum and the data will remain unchanged (assuming nothing happens to cause the copy process to be compromised).

Anybody considering the use of Skydrive for photo storage/sharing should understand the following extract from the Skydrive contract:-



Full Terms & Conditions / Service Agreement here.

I imagine that other 'cloud' service providers have similar clauses, 'though I've not investigated any others.

The Super-A was my first Pentax SLR too and I shot most of my family snaps with it. Sadly it died and couldn't be repaired. I recently found one with a 'Digital Data M' back on it in need of some TLC. Having replaced the light seals, it's working fine, though it could probably use a lube and calibration. Maybe I'll get it done one day.

The only issue I have with the older Pentax SLR's is the lack of a diopter adjustment incorporated in the viewfinder. Other than that it's a very capable camera, and arguably the best of the M style bodied cameras.

I minor correction though, the Super-A enforces a shutter speed of 1/1000th on only the first two frames. The shutter speed can be set as you desire on the third and remaining frames.

I use a Black Rapid RS-5 Cargo strap. It's an excellent performer, but a bit expensive compared to others.

Whether SR is on or off, the SR mechanism is in free motion, affected only by gravity, until the shutter button is half pressed. It's not until then that it is activated and it's electromagnetic system holds it in place.

So, you can expect it to make a noise, typically a dull thud, unless you are pressing the shutter release button.

The apparent sharpness of distant objects may have nothing to do with your camera, lenses, or your technique.

Atmospheric contamination can easily cause very distant objects to look less than pin sharp.

Q: Try taking 2 images of the same scene, 1 using AF, and MF for the other. Compare the results.

Very nice images, which reminds me of a quiz night question, "What are baby spiders called?"

Answer: Spiderlings

An image saved in RAW is almost directly taken from the sensor. No in-camera processing occurs, that's for you to do later in post processing.

In-camera processing, sharpness, contrast, etc., is only applied to files saved as JPG's.

Did you find any difference?

I can't see any, and if you shot these RAW there won't be any difference because the RAW image is unaffected by some settings, including sharpness.

Firstly, I am no lens cleaning expert. What I do know is that acetone is used to clean lens elements during the lens production process. Acetone is an excellent solvent cleaner for removing grease and/or oil contamination from lenses.
However, acetone dissolves some plastics very efficiently, which includes the cement used to glue lenses together into groups.

I would suggest trying Eclipse fluid (methanol) initially. If that doesn't shift the crud, have it professionally cleaned.