This is a prototype of the Sonnetar 25mm f/1.1 lens for the Pentax Q mirrorless camera by MS Optical. Miyazaki san, the man behind MS Optical, has created some unique lenses in the past (for example the Perar Super Triplet 28mm f/4 and the 3.5/35mm f/3.5 lenses for Leica M-mount).
The Sonnetar 25mm f/1.1 lens was briefly listed on eBay for $650.
The limited edition Pentax 645D red lacquer camera is now shipping in the US. A limited number of the Silver K-5 cameras will also soon be available on the US market. Here is the unboxing video of the red Pentax 645D camera from Photogizmos:
In addition to the Photographer’s Guide to the Fujifilm FinePix X100, there is a new book for X100 fans called Mastering the Fuji X100 (now available for pre-order on Amazon for $19.37).
Many new products were announced in the past few weeks. Here is a quick update on the expected availability dates for some of the more popular items:
In addition to the Sony A33 and Sony A55 cameras that were already listed as discontinued, Sony has now listed also the A35 as "previous model" on their official website which is how the company marks their discontinued products.
PentaxForums interviewed Mr. Hiraku Kawauchi (Product Manager of Pentax Japan) during the CP+ show - a must watch video for all Pentax fans or if you just want to understand the company's philosophy.
Today PocketWizard announced the previously leaked Plus III transceiver. For more info check this dedicated site and the latest Joe McNally's post. The price is $139.00 and is currently available for pre-order at B&H.
I was always curious to try out the Ricoh GXR system and with the announcement of the A12 Leica M-mount unit, I was able to borrow one and use it with my Leica lenses. Here is my quick review:
First, I have to say that this GXR A12 M-mount setup makes sense only if you already have Leica lenses and are looking for a backup or just want a smaller body. This combo may appear also to Leica M film shooters who are looking for a "cheaper" digital solution. The GXR body ($349) and the A-12 M-mount unit ($649) totals around $1000 which is more expensive than other mirrorless solutions for Leica M lenses with similar sensor, like the $600 Sony NEX-5n for example (there are several different M-mount adapters for Sony NEX).
Some basic specs of the Ricoh GXR A12 unit:
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