I've just checked on google, 'pentax forum' brings up the US sure first then Pentax User second. I got through to the 5th page before I recognised any other. 'pentax user uk' puts smeggies 4th, which I'm sure is very good for a new starter. My point before was not to pass any judgements on the forums themselves, rather to show that the reality of getting younger members is going to be strongly connected to the search engine results, much more so than any perception of their policies (IMO).

Thanks for that advice Gary ... Now I know Nikon sucks I am very happy with what I've got and I'll stick with Pentax

I do take your point Gary, it's informative to exchange knowledge ... But its about where's the right place. People here are already committed to Pentax. I think I can sum up the' comparison' debate very simply right here now ... Pentax it's best for ergonomics, handling and all round use pleasure, as well as providing the best all round aps-c system solution on the market. But, if you absolutely must have Full Frame now, then you'll have to go elsewhere for now ... Most people choose Nikon for the fast moving action long lens stuff, and Sony for IQ and low light ... But everyone who does will want to come bank to Pentax when they release FF because that will be so much better!

There, hows that? Does that cover it? And its all been said right here on PU!

Well, it'll be PU for now probably, as thats the only one that comes up in Google! The search engine issue is a challenge for any new forum that wants to attract newbies, I'd say more so than any polices or rules.

You get much nicer comments in the gallery, and your images are 'best large'

Marat, would you say the more relaxed rules on the other forums are attracting many more 'new & younger' members to leap onto them enthusiastically? (I know you have an interest in forum statistics :wink

I agree with you Gary that the other forums have not really picked up and balanced the total activity - there's much less I feel going on overall. Could be that many have been put off participating at all because of bad feelings, or (as it is for me) its just a practical hastle to try to keep up with multiple threads spread around?

I'm not really so sure about the idea that people would leave the brand BECAUSE they can't make comparisons and see images from other makes here on PU ??? Did you not yourself read reviews and get advice on non-Pentax forums, compare technical specs, and listen to what people working around you with other makes were saying? Did you not make you choices based on weighting up information from many places.?

I'm a member here, and gladly offer information and advice on using the K7 / lenses or other aspects of the Pentax system that I've got experience with. But I'm not able to tell anyone what is best in practise about a technical aspect between the K7 and a 7D - because I've never used a 7D! Do you think this site would be better if everyone used more cameras so they can offer comparisons? Thats not what I think its really about here ....

Come on, lets be realistic and honest about this ... nothing is 'flourishing' anywhere. The level of involvement and commenting has dropped, but it is not made up by a corresponding rise in activity elsewhere. Since the events earlier this year it has been more of a struggle on any of the forum options.

Its good to have an alternative, and many of us have been compelled to spread ourselves around more because otherwise you miss out - but its not easy trying to keep tuned in to different forums. Full marks to those who established and have offered the alternatives, which can suit those who need to post non-Pentax pictures. But its not realistic to believe you can just leave here and it will all be rosy, you'll find everything needed elsewhere ....

I remain involved here because I still enjoy it, and I value the people here - PU is a good place to be for Pentax photographers and for showing our Pentax pictures.

I think its a question of size - I have seen Kingfishers posted on here which are very obviously much much bigger - this helps I find, to distinquish the bird from the surroundings. I think you should concentrate on learning how to find Kingfishers that are MUCH MUCH bigger (they are so big they take up almost the whole picture, which is amazing!) I am sure there would be a book about where the big Kingfishers are, perhaps in your local library.

Also i think the composition could be improved a lot if the bird was more off-centre, and that would have the additional bonus of showing us even more of the lovely foliage off to the side!

I think you've done a very good job there. Do you yourself prefer these versions?

Why not Slovakia? In any case, K10d, I really like it. It's very well'laid out', with many element to explore, and colours and sharpness are top notch!