one more vote for compatable batteries. They are very much the equal of the Pentax battery. I bought two for £9 for my K7 not one moment of trouble. Cannot tell which is in the camera.

That could depend on the budget you have in mind Claire.

I used http://www.photoguard.co.uk/ to insure my gear. They were very reasonable. No excess to pay. Took premiums on a monthly basis if needed. When I had a claim for some damage to my K-x. It was settled within four days. They were always in touch. Brilliant service. Personally I will never look elsewhere.

Great series of shots. Capture the action well. I think you should consider cropping out the foreground barrier. As for me it adds nothing to the shot... A very well done here, put my K7 shots to shame..

Great camera choice..Welcome to the forum..

Welcome...

Looking forward to seeing some images from your part of the world...

Someone will dive you better details. But off the top of my head. You need to go into your menu and set the aperture ring. (option 2 from memory)

Depends on what your shooting preferences are ? I have both the DA55-300 and Dal versions, I dont really find the quickshift so useful. So personally would recommend the Dal, as its far cheaper for practically the same lens. Though having said that, they are both generally, too noisey for photographing birds. Due the focusing drive system. Which i'm sure others can expand upon. Otherwise they are excellent.

It has been stated by the new Pentax management, in interview. That a new marketing strategy will be set up. this cannot be achieved overnight. so time has to be allowed for this. I only see this happening when the full range of new products is available. The greatest marketing tool wether we like it or not, is now the Internet. Where people can shop regionally or indeed internationally. So in my opinion high street presence is not the greatest of goals. With the demise of cameras retailers in general. Surely this is a problem for all manufactures. Personally I think the best way forward, would be to approach Tesco & Asda in the modern shopping times.

Yes a creditable set of images... 2 is a cracker