Pentax ZX-M 35mm SLR Camera (Body Only)

Features

  • Crisp, sharply focused images, even if the subject is in motion
  • Wide variety of creative, yet user-friendly options
  • Memory lock feature holds exposure settings for up to 10 seconds
  • Preview button lets you check the depth-of-field
  • Lens not included

Description

Like its sister models in the popular ZX-series, the ZX-M offers super-compact dimensions and straightforward, easy-to-read dial controls, but it is totally manual. It incorporates an array of creative and user-friendly features, including a multi-mode exposure system, an advanced light metering system, and a 1/2000-second high-speed shutter. As a result, this is the model for the next generation of photographers as well as those who want to learn the basic skills through creativity and fun. The ZX-M helps teach photography in a simple and easy way.

The super-compact Pentax ZX-M camera has straightforward, easy-to-read dial controls, and it offers fully manual operation. It comes with a wide variety of creative, yet user-friendly options, including: multimode exposure system, an advanced light metering system, and a 1/2000-second high-speed shutter.

You have the option of choosing one of four exposure modes: the hands-off programmed AE, the depth-oriented aperture-priority AE, the action-oriented shutter-priority AE, and the totally maneuverable metered manual. The easy-to-use exposure compensation lets you quickly adjust the exposure level within a +/- 3 EV range in 1/2 EV steps for bracketing or for intentional under- or overexposure.

No matter the lighting conditions, from difficult backlighting to high-contrast situations, the ZX-M's autoexposure modes are designed to give you high-quality, properly exposed images. With the simple push of a button, the memory lock feature holds your exposure settings for up to 10 seconds, letting you reframe your shot without losing your settings.

With a top shutter speed of 1/2000 of a second, this camera gives you crisp, sharply focused images, even if your subject is in motion. This high shutter speed makes the ZX-M ideal for sports and other action photography. The built-in self timer can help you avoid camera shake during slow-shutter and bulb applications, while the 12-second delay gives you plenty of time to get in the shot.

The preview button lets you check the depth-of-field for your aperture setting before you shoot. This features ensures that you get the effect you're looking for. You can also take advantage of this function when the aperture ring is set on the "A" (auto) position. The external LCD panel and viewfinder display can give you a range of useful photographic data, including: external flash status, shutter speed, aperture, exposure compensation, and out-of-exposure coupling range warning, over- and underexposure indication in metered manual.

Spotlight customer reviews

Happy in Arizona--But error on Product specs

[ Posted: 2003-04-07 ]

Rating: 100%
 

I purchased this camera as a replacement for a Pentax Super Program that had given many years of faithful service. According to a Pentax rep via their website, this model is the closest one in their current lineup to match the features of the Super Program. I just received it and am testing it, but it is light, easy to handle, and easy to learn. It allowed me to "salvage" my AF280T flash, and several pretty expensive Vivitar Series 1 Zoom lenses. I agree with the one reviewer who mentioned that the lens mount is plastic. I too worry a little about the wear and tear over time, compared to the "old" metal mounts. The only real disappointment (not a big one) is that the product specs on this website are in error re: TTL flash metering. This camera is not TTL compatible. However, it does sync with dedicated flash units on "auto" but you can't use the TTL setting. Unfortunately I only found that out after ordering it, via a Pentax service rep. .... It's a really nice camera.

I Love This Camera!

[ Posted: 2002-07-06 ]

Rating: 100%
 

This is a great camera. I got it to replace my K1000 for the convenience of automatic film loading and the more accurate matrix metering. I've had this camera since 1998 and have had no problems. It takes sharp, perfectly exposed pictures, and is easy to operate. The dials and knobs are easy to figure out - you don't need the manual to start taking photos. I have two other Pentax SLR bodies (K1000, ZX-5N) but this is my favorite.

Great, simple body

[ Posted: 2002-03-08 ]

Rating: 100%
 

I am a high school photo student and this is the first SLR I bought. It is a very simple camera, akin the the K1000 (An all manual TANK!), but with a few extra luxuries like an automatic film winder and aperture priority mode. A great camera if you don't mind manually focusing, especially for still life type photos. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a basic camera that takes great photos.

ZX-M - Great starter camera for the price

[ Posted: 2002-01-22 ]

Rating: 80%
 

I've had this camera for over a year now and it hasn't dissapointed. I wanted a basic camera that not only allowed me to learn the 'ropes' but also have the means to go automatic when I needed to. The only negatives: (1) the lens mount is plastic, not metal, so there may be a problem with wear in the future and (2) there is no way to get multiple exposures. But overall, this is a great starter camera. Highly recommended.

Best Buy

[ Posted: 2002-01-15 ]

Rating: 100%
 

This Camera is a great buy,if your in school or working it's a great buy plain and simple this is a great camera buy it.