Pentax K-7 Digital SLR Camera: Field Test Report

Peter Burian tests this rugged, well-sealed 14.5MP camera with pro caliber versatility and extras such as Movie mode and in-camera HDR

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The flagship of the Pentax DLSR series, the K-7 is an unusually rugged semi-professional 14.5 MP camera that’s built like a tank: with a splash-proof magnesium alloy body over a stainless steel chassis. While the 14.5 megapixel K20D is less pricey, the  K-7 is even more desirable. This newer model retains all of the K20D’s best features but provides significant benefits:  faster (5.2 fps) drive speed, larger 3″ LCD with 920,000 dot resolution, a viewfinder with 100% coverage, plus upgrades for the sensor, processor, autofocus system, built-in image stabilizer and evaluative metering (now with 77 zones). More importantly, the K-7 offers some entirely new functions, including HD Movie mode.

Design and Features

This is a medium size camera with a large, comfortable handgrip and a bright viewfinder. The body, the optional vertical grip (D-BG4), the high-end DA* series lenses – and the new, affordable WR lenses – are all splash resistant. The 3 inch LCD monitor is fixed, but the 170 degree viewing angle allows for using Live View even when the camera is held at a moderately high or low level.

Pentax provided many external controls including two input dials, a thumb pad, and various buttons including one marked INFO. Press the latter twice for  quick access to a dozen frequently-used functions, reducing the need for hunting through the multitude of items in the full menu.

The K-7 can provide superlative image quality in the Large/Premium JPEG or Raw capture mode, with exceptionally high resolution and remarkable definition of intricate detail. This camera is also desirable for its impressive feature set, with virtually every function and override that the most serious photographer might ever need. (ISO 100)  ©2009 Peter K. Burian
The K 7 can provide superlative image quality in the LargePremium JPEG or Raw capture mode with exceptionally high resolution and remarkable definition of intricate detail This camera is also desirable for its impressive feature set with virtually every function and override that the most serious photographer might ever need ISO 100 ©2009 Peter K Burian



Check the specs and you’ll note that the K-7 is equipped with most of the features you might expect in a pro camera, such as 38 custom functions, wireless TTL flash support and high-tech amenities. The most noteworthy include the Electronic Level Detection feature which helps to identify a crooked photo, plus Composition Adjustment and Horizon Correction for solving the problem.

The PRIME II processor can optimize the optical performance of the Pentax AF lens and provides adjustable dynamic range expansion plus a new HDR Capture mode: take three JPEGs at different exposure levels and the camera will combine them into one with maximum highlight/shadow detail.

In addition to HDR capture, the K-7 provides functions for dynamic range expansion with highlight correction (on/off) and with shadow correction (at any of three levels). This series of JPEGs illustrates some of the effects that can be achieved by using only these conventional features.  ©2009 Peter K. Burian
In addition to HDR capture the K 7 provides functions for dynamic range expansion with highlight correction onoff and with shadow correction at any of three levels This series of JPEGs illustrates some of the effects that can be achieved by using only these conventional features ©2009 Peter K Burian



This new HDR mode – with Standard and Strong options – is available addition to the conventional Multiple Exposure and dynamic range expansion features. This mode was initially unique to the K-7, but a similar feature is also available now in some of the Sony Alpha cameras. (See the Sony A500 and A550 Digital SLR Review: Field Test Report ).

However, the Sony system allows for taking only two photos, not three. Pentax’ HDR mode works very well, but the K-7 should be mounted on a tripod; that’s because the three JPEGs must be identical to avoid ghosting.

Although this series was produced in post-processing - with the HDR digital filter in Playback mode - the K-7 can also make HDR images in capture mode, but only at a Standard or Strong level.  ©2009 Peter K. Burian
Although this series was produced in post processing with the HDR digital filter in Playback mode using the K20D the K 7 provides an identical feature As a bonus however the K 7 can also make HDR images in capture mode though only at a Standard or Strong level ©2008 Peter K Burian


Live View and Movie Mode

Pressing the [LV] button activates a real-time preview of the scene. When shooting still photos, the user can select either of two autofocus technologies. With contrast detection AF (the default mode) there’s no interruption of the live preview during autofocus, but AF operation is very slow: taking one second outdoors and 2 or 3 seconds indoors. (Contrast detect AF with Face Detection is also available.) Switch to Phase Detection AF, and autofocus is a bit faster but reflex mirror flip-flop interrupts the preview. In these aspects the K-7 is similar to many DSLRs.

Live View is convenient to use with manual focus, particularly with the magnification feature that makes it easy to confirm critical focus. Autofocus is also available; while it's slow in the default mode, it's faster with phase detection AF, suitable for many types of subjects. (f/11; ISO 400)  ©2009 Peter K. Burian
Live View is convenient to use with manual focus particularly with the magnification feature that makes it easy to confirm critical focus Autofocus is also available While its slow in the default mode its faster with phase detection AF suitable for many types of subjects f11 ISO 400 ©2009 Peter K Burian

 

Select Movie mode and the camera can shoot AVI video clips at 1536×1024 pixels or at 1280×720 pixels at a fast 30 frames per second. At 1080p, it’s possible to shoot 12 minute clips; for 18 minute clips, switch to 720p. The mono sound quality is acceptable as long as the subject is close to the camera and the user makes little noise. Do note that the K-7 accepts an optional (third party brand) external stereo mic; with this accessory it can provide pro caliber audio.

The camera’s built-in image stabilizer – effective with any compatible lens – works in Movie mode, but autofocus is not available. That’s just as well since AF would be very slow as it is with all DSLRs during video capture. Otherwise, the K-7 is quite versatile in Movie mode. The user can pre-set a desired aperture for depth of field control (before recording) as well as several overrides: exposure compensation, AE Lock, WB, picture style, the level for contrast, sharpness, color saturation and hue. Because videos are made in the familiar Motion JPEG format there’s little need for expensive software for editing.

Autofocus is not available in Movie mode but the K-7 is versatile in other aspects. Before shooting a video, several valuable features can be preset. That allows for creating clips with just the right depth of field, exposure, sharpness, contrast, color rendition and so on. (With optional D-BG4 battery grip.)
Autofocus is not available in Movie mode but the K 7 is versatile in other aspects Before shooting a video several valuable features can be preset That allows for creating clips with just the right depth of field exposure sharpness contrast color rendition and so on With optional D BG4 battery grip



Evaluation: The K-7 is competitive with most other DSLRs in terms of Live View, but its LCD provides higher than average resolution. Frankly, only the Sony Alpha DSLRs provide much faster autofocus in Live View. It provides an adequate level of user control in Movie mode and generates very good HD clips. For the best results, avoid panning the camera at a very fast speed; this will minimize distortion caused by the rolling shutter. Overall, the K-7 is very competitive with most other DSLRs in terms of its video capture capabilities.

When using Live View for portraits it's worth trying the Face Detection AF feature. When selected, the camera must be at the default contrast detection AF. That's great, because the live preview is not interrupted by reflex mirror action, but AF is not very fast, so it's primarily intended for use with static subjects. (ISO 100; fill flash)  ©2009 Peter K. Burian
When using Live View for portraits its worth trying the Face Detection AF feature When selected the camera must be at the default contrast detection AF Thats great because the live preview is not interrupted by reflex mirror action but AF is not very fast so its primarily intended for use with static subjects ISO 100 fill flash ©2009 Peter K Burian


Playback Mode Palette

In addition to the numerous modes, features and overrides in capture mode, the K-7 offers many in-camera functions for modifying images after they are taken. After a photo is modified, it is saved as an additional JPEG on the memory card. In addition to basic items such as Rotate, Resize, Crop and RAW file conversion, the Palette offers several enhancing items. It’s easy to tweak aspects such as brightness, saturation, hue, contrast and sharpness.

Very few DSLRs provide as many post-processing functions for image modification in Playback mode as the Pentax K-7. Creative photographers who don't want to spend hours at a computer - and those without advanced Photoshop skills - will love some of the effects that can be achieved right in the camera. (Digital Filters).  ©2009 Peter K. Burian
Very few DSLRs provide as many post processing functions for image modification in Playback mode as the Pentax K 7 Creative photographers who dont want to spend hours at a computer and those without advanced Photoshop skills will love some of the many different effects that can be achieved right in the camera Digital Filters ©2009 Peter K Burian



Creative photographers will also appreciate the more advanced options in Playback mode such as the 16 Digital Filters. These include Monochrome Effects, Watercolor effects, Soft Focus, Extract Color (conversion to b&w but retaining one selected color) and Slim (for an apparent slimming effect). There’s also an HDR option to maximize the detail in both highlight and shadow areas. This works quite well and is much simpler to use than the HDR feature in capture mode.

Evaluation: Any of the effects produced by a Digital Filter can be achieved in pro-grade imaging software (perhaps with plug-ins), but that requires a great deal of technical expertise. By comparison, the in-camera enhancing features are simple and quick to use. The process is also intuitive, because the effect of each Digital Filter – as well as any change in intensity – is visible in the LCD screen display. While some of the filters produce gimmicky effects, my friends loved the camera’s post-processing features.

Speed and Quality

The K-7 is quite fast thanks to a sophisticated PRIME II processor and a large buffer (temporary storage bank). It will fire 40 large/fine JPEGs in a burst at a full 5.2 fps. The SAFOX VIII+ autofocus system – with 11 points, including nine that are cross-hatched – is not lightning fast, but it’s suitable for some action photography. For the best AF speed/reliability, use one of the SDM-series lenses with a supersonic focus motor.

While some competing cameras provide even faster AF than serious sports photographers need, the Pentax system is certainly reliable and very accurate. Even in low light, it will focus in about a half second-as long as the subject is within range of its focus-assist lamp.

When using an SDM lens with ultrasonic focus motor, Continuous AF had no difficulty in tracking the motion of moving subjects allowing me to make long series of sharp photos at 5.2 frames per second. While this is not the best camera for shooting extremely fast/erratic sports action, particularly in low light, it's perfect for most other purposes.  ©2009 Peter K. Burian
When using an SDM lens with ultrasonic focus motor Continuous AF had no difficulty in tracking the motion of moving subjects allowing me to make long series of sharp photos at 52 frames per second While this is not the best camera for shooting extremely fasterratic sports action particularly in low light its perfect for most other purposes ©2009 Peter K Burian



When used at the default setting in the Natural picture style, the K-7 produced large/premium JPEGs with moderately high sharpness, slightly low color saturation and acceptable color accuracy. It’s well worth using the other picture style modes and/or the parameter adjustments to achieve just the right effect for any type of subject or scene. As expected, low ISO quality is very good. My best ISO 100 to 200 JPEGs are suitable for making exhibition grade 15×22″ prints.

For the best results at very high ISO, use RAW capture mode and then set the ideal level of Noise Reduction in RAW converter software. After conversion and subsequent sharpening (taking care not to exaggerate the noise pattern) you should be able to make a very nice letter size print from an ISO 1600 photo. (RAW capture without flash under stage lighting)  ©2009 Peter K. Burian
For the best results at very high ISO use RAW capture mode and then set the ideal level of Noise Reduction in RAW converter software After conversion and subsequent sharpening taking care not to exaggerate the noise pattern you should be able to make a very nice letter size print from an ISO 1600 photo RAW capture without flash under stage lighting ©2009 Peter K Burian



Digital noise is well controlled at ISO 400, but by ISO 800 – and especially at higher levels – the images exhibit noticeable luminance and chroma noise. Avoid underexposure and your ISO 800 photos will be suitable for very nice letter size glossies. (At default, the multi-zone meter is more likely to over-expose than under-expose.)

The Noise Reduction feature is “on” by default but the processing is not aggressive. Hence, there’s little blurring of fine detail although some “graininess” is certainly visible. Frankly, in terms of image quality at high sensitivity levels, the comparably priced Canon and Nikon cameras are preferable.

Created by the developers of Silkypix software, the Pentax Utility program is an unusually versatile RAW converter with tools for modifying all aspects of a photo.  ©2009 Peter K. Burian
Created by the developers of Silkypix software the Pentax Utility program is an unusually versatile RAW converter with tools for modifying all aspects of a photo ©2009 Peter K Burian



Evaluation: At the most commonly used ISO levels, the K-7 provides very high resolution and excellent JPEG quality at the Premium setting. Most users will be happier after setting in-camera sharpness to a +1 level. Photos made at ISO 100 to 400 with premium-grade DA* lenses exhibit excellent resolution. At higher ISO settings, it’s worth switching to RAW capture. When using the Pentax Utility or another versatile RAW converter program, adjust the noise reduction feature to the optimal level for each image. That will definitely provide the best possible quality in ISO 1600 to 3200 photos.

Final Assessment

This is definitely the best Pentax DSLR to date in terms of versatility, ruggedness, speed and viewfinder coverage. Sure, the K20D was already packed with capabilities, but the K-7 targets an even more experienced photographer with additional amenities. While the many advanced functions make some aspects of operation complicated, it’s worth taking the time to reach a high level of proficiency with the camera. (Shameless plug: you might also want to check out my book, Magic Lantern Guides: Pentax K-7.)

The 14.6 megapixel K-7 - particularly with some of the superb DA* SDM lenses - should satisfy many serious photographers. This camera - with tank like construction - is fast in many aspects, more versatile than most others in its price category and capable of producing excellent images. (ISO 400; +1 in-camera Sharpness, Vibrant picture style)  ©2008 Peter K. Burian
The 146 megapixel K 7 particularly with some of the superb DA SDM lenses should satisfy many serious photographers This camera with tank like construction is fast in many aspects more versatile than most others in its price category and capable of producing excellent images ISO 400 +1 in camera Sharpness Vibrant picture style ©2009 Peter K Burian



At today’s “street” price around $1100, the K-7 offers excellent value. In terms of feature set and build quality it’s competitive with more expensive cameras of other brands. In my estimation, this is a very desirable DSLR that’s perfect in many aspects for the advanced photo enthusiast. It should particularly appeal to those who often shoot outdoors in inclement weather. While comparison shopping, be sure to check out the Pentax K-7 (preferably with a high-end, ultrasonic DA* SDM lens). Take a few photos on your own memory card while trying out the many features and you’ll probably agree that this is a strong contender in the prosumer DSLR category.


For Technical Specifications, visit: Pentax’ K-7 website
Check the latest prices and user reviews at: Amazon Pentax K-7 14.6 MP Digital SLR with Shake Reduction and 720p HD Video (Body Only); B&H Photo Pentax K-7 Digital SLR Camera Body



This Post Has 10 Comments

  1. Where on K7-earth, among its “various buttons”, are included “one marked Fn” that “provides quick access to a dozen frequently-used functions, reducing the need for hunting through the multitude of items in the full menu”?.

    I cannot see nor reach not even touch it.

    Cheers!

  2. This is interesting. A News item published today.

    Pentax K-7 Readers’ Choice Camera 2009

    Small, rugged, innovative digital SLR camera is praised by photographers, has been selected over seven other digital cameras as the most important camera of the year with 55% majority of online voters. The Pentax K-7 is the winner of Adorama’s first Reader’s Choice award.

    Over 2,700 photographers responded to a call to vote for the one digital camera they felt was the most important camera of the year (http://www.adorama.com/alc/blogarticle/Readers-Choice-Camera-2009). 1,524 voted for the Pentax K-7—a small, water-resistant digital SLR camera that was the first DSLR to offer internal High Dynamic Range when it was introduced earlier this year. The K-7 is also known for faster image processing, lower noise, a built-in level to keep horizons straight, internal lens correction software, and an advanced metering system. Many of these features can be found on other cameras, but they all cost considerably more than the approximately $1,200 K-7.

    The full press release is at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2009/11/prweb3257884.htm

  3. Thanks for a great review.
    Did you actually test the filter HDR on this camera,or only on K20D?
    My findings are that while on K20D it could work very nicely,it seems not good on the new camera.
    I did get the K7 in July,and havent updated firmware yet.
    Pentax tell they have fixed a bug in the akvarell?? filter,so they might have in HDR filter without telling.
    Only thing I dont like is that they took away the pictbridge,I used to print straight away on POGO printer in my pocket to give away. Great at parties and if you do street photography in places were people cannot afford cameras or computers.

  4. Henning: No, I did not thoroughly test the HDR Digital Filter with this camera. I played with it and it seemed identical to the one on the K20D.

    I did test some of the other post-processing options of course, including all of the 16 Digital Filters. They seemed to work as well as they did with the K20D.

    And yes, an increasing number of high-end cameras are not PictBridge compatible.

    Peter http://www.peterkburian.com

  5. I bought a Pentax K-7 serial no. 6649379 and can say that P Burian speaks the truth. I”m happy and good buy too. I love the TAV where I can set the speed for good action shot and the aperture where my lens works best for sharpness which is usually 1/500 at f8 and the camera set the iso required. it also works very well with high synchro flash.

  6. I bought the K-7 this summer as a step up into “real” photography. I did a solid month of research before settling on the Pentax, and it’s nice to see my choice validated by the Adorama poll.

    I just discovered this website, and I am already enthusiastic about the content here. Keep up the good work!

  7. Thanks for your note, Perry.

    Yeah, the K-7 is likely to be the most succesful Pentax DSLR ever.

    Peter

  8. I’ve had the K-7 for about 4 months now and fully agree that it’s a photographer’s camera. It takes great shots. While you should go for the new K-5 if you have the money and are an advanced photographer, I still think the K-7 represents a wonderful value. As a serious photographer myself, I enjoy the K-7 every time I take a picture.
    Thanks for the nice review!

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