Artur, See below:
AL> If, as you think, Pentax decided to specialise in the MF, then how come they AL> introduce new 35mm bodies so often as well as introduce new features like AL> P-TTL, HSS, SAFOX VII in 35mm bodies? I think they focus equally on both AL> formats. Besides, you're wrong about that Pentax supremacy in the MF AL> segment. The reason is simple - bodies lack interchangeable backs. This is AL> more important and decisive thing than one would suspect. AL> Also don't overestimate digital cameras - only the most expensive of them AL> are capable of producing good pictures and there are still situations when AL> films are unbeatable. Pentax has had to introduce the innovations mentioned to be able to compete in the 35mm non-pro market because all the other makers have already introduced these capabilities. Besides the ergonomics of the MZ-S, what feature on it has not been available on one or more bodies from the other manufacturers. They are largely playing catch up or just staying even with the competition. Without those kind of features they would cease to be a player in that market. I do agree that they probably focus somewhat equally on MF and 35mm. As to the Pentax Supremacy in MF, I do agree that they are not the main player. That market is much more clearly divided into functionality. In the areas where interchangeable backs are important, Pentax doesn't compete very well. The place that they do well is in field cameras. I still say that digital is going to impact these markets and from my observations, is already being impacted even by 35mm DSLR's. Image quality aside, the business reasons to use digital for wedding/portrait work is overwhelming. Cost savings on film, developing and proofing is enormous. The ability to verify that the shots were captured along with turnaround time are also very valuable. Some that I have observed are also willing to shoot alot more shots (2 to 3 times more) to get the right images at the cost of temporary storage on memory cards. As long as the buying clients are willing to accept the quality that is offered by digital, the MF pro will be compelled to move to digital as quick as he/she can. AL> Last but not least, my answer to your final question... I think that no pro AL> (sorry for using this word again) will turn from C/N to Pentax unless Pentax AL> provides them with equally equiped, yet unique, highly specialised body. I AL> mean both film and digital stuff. But don't forget that there are and will AL> be new people in the pro segment, who are seeking or will seek such cameras AL> for themseves and these are the people Pentax should think of... The real problem here is that Minolta has already attempted and failed to do just what you are describing. The support/marketing for the pro world also has to be in place. The one area where Pentax seems to be able to provide something unique is in the SMC coatings. Unfortunately, no one really acknowledges or really cares about that outside of Pentax circles. Read any lens review - especially Pop Photo who remarks on flare and you will find that Pentax lenses don't seem much if any different than other brands. AL> What I dream about, especially after buying a Z-1p a few days ago, is a body AL> which is based on the Z-1p in terms of the whole design, ergonomy and AL> features, yet upgraded with the SAFOX VII, electronic DOF preview, magnesium AL> housing, P-TTL, HSS, Battery Grip. I really estimate the Z-1p's HyperProgram AL> and built-in flash compensation which are so convenient to use, especially AL> after playing with the MZ-5n which is in a way similar to operate to the AL> MZ-S. I'm afraid you will have to be happy being a dreamer. It doesn't make economic sense to build such a camera. I'm afraid that the ability to sell such film cameras in the future is going to diminish due to the digital arena. The best we can hope for is a trickle down from DSLR development to be used in the film cameras. I don't expect any more major SLR developments from Nikon/Canon that aren't digital. Bruce - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
