You can use a "focus trap" with manual lenses. You set the shutter to operate only when the suject is in focus, then you hold the shutter button down. The shutter will then operate only as your suject comes into while you turn the focus ring (not too quickly, otherwise the sensor won't have time to lock onto your suject). However, you have to use the AF sensor that is directly on your suject as you take the picture. Using this method, you can't use an AF sensor to focus, then reframe your subject the way you want, it will trigger as soon as the AF sensor you are using "see" the image in focus.

Even the "green button" is black. I wonder if they will call it the "black button" in the manual that comes with it. It could bbe kind of confusing, since all the buttons and controls are black.

I like the tragic, dramatic look of these pictures. If the vehicles would/could be out of them, we could almost think they're from another era.

I have a Kenko MC-7 teleconverter, It doesn't autofocus with DA* lenses, but it does autofocus with my Sigma 105 f:2.8 macro lens and my Pentax 12-24 f:4 wide angle zoom. It also works with my D-FA 150-450 lens, although it doesn't always "nail" focus on the first try, probably due to the rather small lens aperture, especially on the longer end of the zoom range. However, what is interesting for me is the "preset" option of that lens, which work flawlessly with this lens/converter combo. It comes in real handy while trying to photograph birds flying in and out of their nest/habitat. There is some loss of sharpness, but being able to get "the shot" is an acceptable compromise to me.

Any other lens/converter combo you know of that works acceptably wel with Pentax cameras?

I use an anti slip mat for limited mobility people. They "grab" onto anything that's on it. Just put the lens filter side on it, then "unscrew" the lens to get the filter off. Only caveat is that it doesn't work with polarizing filters. I use a "dab" of wax base lubricant on my filter threaads, it helps avoiding sticky situations.

If you get a couple of Cactus V6 or V6 II, you can actually use a LOT of different flashes with your camera, even some models from Nikon, Canon et al. You can also use some flashes which are just generic flashes with thyristor, although I don't have a list of all the ones that will work. If you want to know if a certain flash from major manufacturer will work with a Pentax camera, just PM me.

Believe when I say those remotes open up a lot of possibility for flash usage, being able to control the triggering and power remotely. As an added bonus, to keep some change in my pocket, I buy second hand flashes. This way, two Cactus remote and a used flash generally cost a lot less than a Pentax dedicated flah bought new.

The Cactus V6 and Cactus V6 II are the only remotes that I know allowing "cross breed" flashes to be used with just about any cameras.

They aqre well worth the money you"ll spend on them.

Go for it. It is really worth the "sacrifices" you'll do to get it.

I don't need one, but I sure do want one. Unfortunately, my wife saw the invoice for the 150-450, and she said: "Take a break for a while". Hopefully, the "while" will be short.

I don't know. The best place to find wax based lubricant is a bike shop. They use it for chains on off road bicycle and motorcycle so dust or dirt won't stick.

You should try using a wax based lubricant, if any. Dirt, grime or whatever other sh!t you may encounter won't stick to it,