April 14, 2014
Opinion: It's not often that a camera can be referred to as a game-changer, one that provides photographers with tools that enrich their craft and are capable of producing images so distinct they are set apart from the competition. That's what Ricoh is aiming for with the $8,500 (body only) PENTAX 645Z medium-format DSLR, launched today.
Story: Developed on the legacy of the PENTAX
645D and the historic PENTAX 645 film cameras, the PENTAX 645Z features a 51.4 megapixels on a high-performance CMOS image sensor, assuring super-high-resolution images with a realistic sense of
depth combined with vivid colors and rich shadow detail. The inclusion
of a CMOS image sensor enables live view on a tiltable LCD panel while also
making the 645Z the first camera in the medium-format category to
offer video recording capabilities, resulting in footage that captures
amazingly lifelike reproductions with tangible depth and incredible dynamic
range.
The PENTAX 645Z also received several enhancements including an improved shooting experience
that can capture three frames per second—a significant benefit
when compared to other medium-format cameras featuring CMOS sensors and an
equivalent resolution—with a maximum shutter speed of 1/4000 of a second. The
645Z is equipped with a top ISO of 204,800 for images with exceptional
quality, even in situations with very low light or pushing for higher shutter
speeds in all lighting conditions, providing the photographer with totally new
creative options beyond the scope of existing medium-format photography. Additionally,
the 645Z is compatible with the recently introduced FLU Card, providing remote operation of the 645Z including the ability
to release the shutter, view a live-view, and browse and download the images recorded
on the card using a wireless connection to a smartphone, tablet, computer or
any web browser enabled device.
Widening the 645Z’s diverse applications for shooting
is an articulated LCD with a 3.2-inch LCD monitor with approximately 1,037,000
dots, ensuring that photographers captures waist-level, high and
low-angle images with precision and ease. Finally, the PENTAX 645Z features a sturdy body with a magnesium alloy frame and a diecast aluminum chassis, complemented by 76
weather-seals for a cold-resistant, weather-resistant and dustproof shooting
experience.
In conjunction with the launch of the PENTAX 645Z, Ricoh
Imaging is also announced the availability of 13 lenses to
support a wide variety of optics providing a system that spans
numerous shooting scenarios.
Pricing
and Availability
The PENTAX 645Z will be available for purchase in June 2014
for a category-low retail price of $8,499.95 for the body only.
The newly available FA 645 lenses are available now for
the following prices:
SMC-FA 645 75MM F2.8
|
$839.00
|
SMC-FA 645 45MM F2.8
|
$1,319.00
|
SMCP-FA 645 150mm f/2.8(IF)
|
$1,679.00
|
SMC
PENTAX-FA* 645 300MM F4 ED(IF)
|
$4,799.95
|
SMC-FA 645 400MM F5.6 EDIF
|
$3,479.00
|
SMC-FA 645 ZOOM 45-85 F4.5
|
$2,879.00
|
SMCP-FA 645 120mm f/4 MACRO
|
$1,679.00
|
SMCP-FA 645 200MM f/4 (IF)
|
$1,319.00
|
SMCP-FA 645 80-160/4.5
|
$2,519.00
|
SMCP-FA 645 33-55 f/4.5 AL
|
$3,239.00
|
SMCP-FA 645 ZOOM 150-300MM F/5.6 ED
|
$3,239.00
|
SMCP-FA 645 35mm f/3.5
|
$1,919.00
|
SMCP-FA 645 55-110 f/5.6
|
$2,039.00
|
