Super set and well suited to the mono treatment

My only experience with John Pye was for an issue with a Q body. Took forever to get resolved and turned out that all they did was send it to Pentax European repair centre in France.
I have used other repairers since who have been really good, particularly 1st Aid Repairs in Kent who did a great job on a carelessly dropped K3iii and 60-250 lens!. You can call them on 01892 525327

Thank you all for taking the time to comment . I think the Robin is probably my favourite as well - quite an extreme crop from the original image with a few tweaks in PP (Noise reduction and sharpening of the RAW image in Topaz). My workflow for RAW images generally utilises a mixture of Topaz and LR.
Yes Dippers are challenging birds to photograph - locally where they tend to hunt/feed on the river the light is generally poor and contrasty which helps them blend into the background.

Managed to get out before the rain set in. All images Pentax K3iii and Pentax FA*300mm F4. Camera was set to 1000th, F/8 (TAV - so exposure was via variable iso)
Ably assisted (?) by 1 large grey GSD
We have had a few barren walks of late so it was nice to take some pictures beyond the garden wall !

1. Robin at full throttle!



2. Robin (Closer crop)



3. Moorhen



4. Dipper_1



5. Dipper_2



6. Dipper_3

Other than the end of the current K series DSLRs there is not really much in concrete information. Our recent experience of the speed of developments from Pentax/Ricoh suggests a long wait!

The final lines of the statement are the most intriguing
RICOH IMAGING will continue to pursue the shooting style unique to SLR cameras, and will endeavor to provide products that allow everyone with an interest in photography, and everyone who wants to try using a camera, to experience the distinctive enjoyment of SLR photography and discover the wonder of photography itself.

Cameras are more than just tools for capturing images; they will be a presence that enriches the very experience of taking photographs. We look forward to bringing you the next stage of PENTAX digital SLR cameras.
This at least suggests Pentax will survive as a brand

Totally agree

I like both versions. The vignette applied to the negative version works really well in removing unwanted background clutter (would a similar application of a vignette fading to white lift the colour version?), The negative version also really accentuates the patterns in the cloth.

Totally agree

A great way to start the day, I can see why you favour that tree.

Super set and well done for having a camera and lens to hand to grab these shots. Should add congratulations to your window cleaner as well