Pentax cons:
1. While I really liked the pZ-1p, the AF was so slow and hunted so much that I rarely turned the focus switch off of "manual". What I really would have liked from pentax is simply a pZ-1p with updated AF. That's it! Nothing more. Instead, they introduced the mz-s, which is rather expensive given that it's something of a step back. It's a fine camera, but it's not a professional camera. If I want a small, light camera and speed is not an issue, I'll use my ME super.
2. As far as I know, Pentax has not included any type of weatherproofing on any of its AF cameras. Disappointing.
3. (This is not directly Pentax's fault) Local unavailability. I'd really like to be able to rent big glass if I need it, rather than having to buy something really expensive I might use once or twice a year. Additionally, I'd like to be able to buy accessories locally if something should suddenly give out. I recently had to pay much more than I should have to buy a new (third party, they didn't have any Pentax flashes) flash after my unit suddenly stopped working before a big event. This happened because only one local store carried pentax-compatible flashes (and I live in Rochester, NY, not a horrible city for photo supplies).
4. It seems that Pentax's commitment to pro-level 35mm equipment has disappeared. Now their development seems to be focusing on consumer-level digital equipment (Note: This does not apply to their Med Format gear, which is great).
Pro Nikon:
1. I chose to go with the Nikon f100 for the main reason I first started with Pentax: backwards compatibility (for Pro models, anyway).
2. The viewfinder is amazing (high-eypoint, real *glass* cover glass, incredibly bright).
3. The AF is incredible, it opens up a whole new world for me.
4. The viewfinder. Yes, I know I've already said this, but it's really good. This alone would have made the switch worthwile.
5. Nikon just released a new pro film camera, the F6, which makes me confident that they won't abandon film any time soon (e.g., by making new lenses that only cover APS-sized sensors).
6. Nikon dealers are everywhere.
7. Due to the digital 'revolution' (I think nikon has about 5 current digital SLR's), f100's are selling at an all time low. I got mine (like new) for about $500.
8. Metal construction and weather sealing.
9. Development (and actual implementation!) of new technologies such as silent wave (equivalent to USM for Canon) and VR (equivalent to Canon's IS). Though I'm unlikely to buy such products due to their prohibitive prices, it's nice to know they're available (and besides, I can always rent).
So that's it, I'm finished venting. I'll still visit the list and hold on to my MF pentax equipment, but pentax AF seemed like a dead end to me. I still prefer Pentax glass, but when I really want quality, I'll just use my LF kit (which I've been using much more than 35mm lately), or the ME Super. The f100 helps me get fast moving shots that would not be possible with LF or a manual focus body.
Melchi M. Michel mmichel[at]cvs[dot]rochester[dot]edu W: 585-275-0523 H: 585-273-5859 Center for Visual Science & Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences University of Rochester CPU Box 273101, Rochester NY 14627-3101
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