DJE asked > WHAT on earth is hyper manual, and how does it differ > in use from "manual" as used on, say, the Super Program or K1000.? > I want to set shutter speeds and apertures by hand and have the camera > tell me how well exposed it thinks those settings will make the picture. > Any other camera interference in this process is unwelcome. Anybody care > to explain how hyper-manual actually WORKS in use?
Hypermanual is great! You push one button and the aperture and speed are set automatically, then you can change either to any value you like without having to take your eye off the viewfinder. I use it for low shutter speed flash photos (where I want ambient light in the background) and self-timer shots to avoid light entering the viewfinder and ruining exposure (as can happen on auto modes). Either way hyper manual is much faster and more accurate than old fashioned match needle systems. > In general, does anybody want to try to talk me into or out of buying > a PZ-1P? For my ends it actually looks like a better camera than the > MZ-S (remember I don't own any Pentax AF lenses) and it's a LOT cheaper. > Any weaknesses or annoyances that I don't know about? I would highly recommend a PZ-1 or PZ-1P. I you don't mind the plastiky exterior (note that the chassis is a very solid and rigid metal construction) there are few cameras as well featured and with as usable an interface. The hyperprogram is a fantasic idea and one that has been carried over to the *istD (instant shutter or aperture priority without having to take your eye off the viewfinder). Can't really say it has any weaknesses or annoyances.
