Photography News issue 21

Profile

INTERVIEW

The medium-format Pentax 645Z impressed as soon as it was launched last year; now the K-3 II, boasting the same processor, has hit the shelves. Marketing and product coordinator, Adrian Uden talks about the camera and brand’s evolution AdrianUden

When we use Pixel Shift Resolution, we are still obtaining information from the same number of pixels, however, the information captured will be more detailed. As a result, when capturing an image using Pixel Shift Resolution in PEF Raw and JPEG, there is a significant increase in the file size, due to the complexity or detail of the image. Aswe capture all RGB light informationoneverypixel, without the need to increase file size dramatically, we are really pleased with how this option can enhance images. You can still use the sensor’s full resolution capabilities when using Pixel Shift Resolution and, besides the four-shot composite process, it also effectively reduces image noise in high ISO settings. Astrotracer is a really clever bit of technology that allows you to calibrate the camera to simulate the rotation of the Earth’s movement. The setting combines the built-in GPS with the in-body stabilisation to capture night scenes without star trails. You can keep the shutter open for up to five minutes using this mode. I think the K-3 II offers some very interesting features in comparison to the competition at this end of the market. Did I mention weather sealing too? We would love to have every feature in this camera, but for the moment, we are focusing on image quality, but watch this space. Did Pentax consider the option of producing a higher resolution file with this setting? Tell us about the Astrotracer function that can help avoid star trails by moving the sensor.

the image quality in any way. And you’re absolutely right, moiré is less of an issue now. However there is still the occasion where it can affect the image and, as a result, have an undesired effect on the image taken. So, we have given the user the option of turning the AA simulator on or off, albeit limited to certain shooting scenarios; we can have the best of both worlds without jeopardising the image quality. Can you expand on the technology of the AA filter?Why offer different levels of performance? The way we, at Ricoh Imaging, have developed the AA simulator technology is to generate microscopic vibrations of the image sensor during image exposure – this allows us to generate the same level of moiré reduction as optical AA filters. Unlike fixed optical AA filters, which always produce identical results, this innovative simulator allows the user to adjust the level of moiré-reduction from off, to Type 1 and Type 2. The upgraded SR mechanism offers a 4.5EV benefit as opposed to the previous 3.5EV. What are the key technical changes that have made this possible? When the SR unit detects the panning motion of the camera, it automatically manages the movement of the CMOS image sensor to capture an ideal panning shot. Thanks to the newly adapted highly sensitive gyro-sensor, K-3 II now ensures camera shake free shooting up to 4.5EV. With reference to the pixel resolution mode, Pentax has opted for four shots with one pixel movement between each shot but with no image file increase. What is the thinking behind this and what are the practical benefits? Is the file produced a standard DNG/PEF Raw? Now here we can get quite technical. The photo sensors in any CMOS sensor are colour-blind by nature. In order for the sensors to detect colour, a filter needs to be placed over the top of them – known as a Bayer filter. This is a mosaic filter that is made up of repeating patterns of green, red, green and blue – two greens to every red and blue, because the human eye is more sensitive to green light. This allows us to capture fantastic images, but effectively, each sensor is having the light information it receives reduced by 75%. Using Pixel Shift Resolution the photo sensor is able to receive full RGB information. We do this by capturing four shots, moving the sensor by one pixel each time. Once processed, each of the 24 million pixels will have full colour information. So, in terms of file size, it’s quite logical to think through it. Where there is more light information, the file size will increase. If you take a really dark image, the file size will be significantly smaller. When we generate an image using the Pentax K-3 II, the file size depends on the subject that is being shot.

BIOGRAPHY

We canhave the best of both worldswithout jeopardising the image quality

Pentax has seen some great products recently and there is the promise of a full-frame DSLR this year. What has given Pentax this impetus? At Ricoh Imaging we really appreciate that you recognise our efforts in the development of our DSLR offerings. We also appreciate the recognition of bodies such as TIPA who have recently commended us for Best DSLR Advanced for the Pentax K-S2. This allows us to build on the heritage of Pentax as a brand and, quite naturally, follow that through to a full-frame proposition. Full-frame is something that has been highly anticipated by Pentax users. Ricoh Imaging purchased the Pentax brand more than three years ago. This has given us time to build the brand back up to a level that can proudly do justice to its heritage. The time is right for full- frame and we feel that it will be a huge success for us; and of course, because we are using the original K-mount, the lenses will be compatible with the original lenses from the 35mm film SLRs. This is something special for us; full-frame is coming… The K-3 II’s CMOS sensor is a FSI sensor; why not a BSI design? Also the Pentax 645Z has a higher top ISO than the K-3 II – why? That’s correct; we are using a FSI (front side illuminated) sensor. The only reason we do not use BSI for the K-3 II is because it’s not industry standard. We use the same processor in the K-3 II as the 645Z, but the big difference here is the sensor size. The 645Z sensor has around nine times more surface area in comparison. This allows more light to hit the sensor and therefore allows for a higher ISO. What is the thinking about the adjustable AA filter? Moiré is so rare now because cameras have such high resolutions. Why not take out the AA filter completely? Just to be clear on the technology we use here, we are using an anti-aliasing ‘simulator’. There is no filter over the sensor itself that can negatively impact Years in the photo industry: Ten in consumer electronics, last two focusing on digital cameras Current location: Staines-upon-Thames Last picture taken: Borough Market with a Ricoh GR – great environment for street photography Hobbies: Fitness, photography and motorbikes When youwere younger, what did you want to bewhen you grewup? My mum would tell you Mooncat Dogs or cats? Staffordshire Bull Terrier Toast or cereal? Cereal, unless there’s Nutella Email or phone call? Drop me a line anytime.

π To find out more about the Pentax K-3 II and 645Z, go to www.ricoh-imaging.co.uk.

Photography News | Issue 21