So here are my thoughts on the Pentax 17. What do you think of it? I hope you enjoyed the video! :) Much love to Squarespace for the continuous support of the channel! Head to www.squarespace.com/teocrawford to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain by using the code "TEOCRAWFORD" (also supports the channel). Wishing you a lovely weekend!
Maybe you can try to get pentax to make the film compartment of the camera vertical so the half frame now defaults to horizontal images, and now it has become a "thick phone" that has "film tones" that people can have fun shooting images with, just that the image takes some process and wait time to get back and share😂 ok I'm kidding, and a nice video Teo! I too would have hoped something like the original Olympus XA be improved with the tech of today but still retain it's vibe, but that's a dream that may never come true.
I pre-ordered this camera on the first day it was released and received it about two weeks later. I’m really enjoying this camera. It has a point-and-shoot feel and is very lightweight, making it easy to carry around. I haven't developed the pictures yet, as I've only taken 68 shots so far. Given how expensive film can be, I’ve always wanted to use a half-frame camera. This has been a very happy purchase for me.
Well, there was the Olympus Pen EES-2 which released in 1968 and did almost all of what this did, and then later the Olympus Pen EF which also had flash (but a plastic body) That said, I'm still glad this camera exists, and the price will come down over time.
Seeing the original prices for camera’s adjusted for inflation made me realize that prices for camera’s haven’t really changed. Like the inflated price for the Minolta is basically the same price for a brand new Sony A7 camera, and that honestly makes sense to me, and in fact it’s honestly amazing that prices haven’t skyrocketed more for average consumer cameras in the last 30-40 years; especially for what camera’s that are way more capable than ones back then.
True, and I don’t feel like the camera is overpriced, considering how much development went into it. It’s a completely new concept, new aesthetic design, newly designed lens, and a bunch of research went into reviving some of the mechanical parts from Pentax cameras of the past. I think what people mean when they scoff at the price is the fact that the Pentax 17 will have to compete with used prices of old cameras. Honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Pentax 17 doesn’t even make Pentax much of a profit (if any, yet); it might be a long term investment in the film photography market that may pay off only in several years. But the fact remains that when used cameras are so much cheaper, a >$500 price tag for a casual camera is a bit of a headscratcher for many.
Couldn't agree more with what you were saying about the camera. I wished it was made with more rugged materials and the fact it wasn't a full frame camera was a bit of a deal breaker for myself. I feel like it would have been a near perfect camera for beginners and even experienced people in the hobby/craft to be able to have a more everyday casual yet more sophisticated camera.
Teo , thanks for the thoughtful review. I appreciate your assessment of what it is and not trashing what it is not. I am disappointed some influencers felt the need to be negative. Pentax stepped up and made a new top to bottom film camera in 2024. 2024!! Let’s celebrate what we have. Oh, thanks for the price comparison. Good information.
Thank you for comparing the 17's price to film cameras from the 80s and 90s. I compared it to a point and shoot from the mid 80s (about $150-$200, was what my memory told me), and even that was nearer $400 or $500 today. IMO, the 17 is a bargain, in reality! I I am still shooting my first roll on my own copy, but think that I will like it. It certainly gives me confidence that my ancient film cameras don't (they all date from the 50s through to the 70s). I was also suspicious of the half-frame, but one benefit I am discovering is that since I'm getting 48 shots on this roll, I feel more freedom to just shoot, vs when I shoot full frame, or medium format, where I want every photo to "count". I'll see how sharp the images are when I finally develop the film, and go to enlarge the images in the dark room, but the sample images I've seen online have given me hope--we'll see. :-)
Actually a decent review of the camera, so many others miss features and missrepresent this product by rushing out the video during the first week of the camera being released. Top stuff man :)
Phenomenal job Teo! This is the best review and selection of photos that I've seen regarding the Pentax 17. I purchased this camera as soon as it was released, and I'm still working on my first roll.
The Olympus XA w/ flash released at $200 though after a while you could find it at NY discounters for about $175. We have to remember that producing this first-in-a-long-time model was a big endeavor since much of the equipment to produce film cameras, and the technical know how was gone. I think $500 is a fair price.
@@theothertonydutch Ah I just remember that Pentax is known for making only SLRs: a bunch of M42 35mm SLR, Pentax 645, Pentax 67. Perhaps they can design the body, then the question is who will make the lens? Modern screw mount lens are kinda rare (oh hi there Voigt...).
1) You live in such a magically beautiful place 2) Your exposures capture breathtaking moments of storytelling 3) The approach you have to photography has really encouraged me to grow with my Pentax K1000 (actually have two by accident) and "see" better 4) Why is it 100 degrees here (in Ohio, US) but every video you look so cozy? :3
One thing I really like about the 17 is the way the viewfinder is directly over the centerline of the lens. There are few things I hate more than the parallax of trying to place something in the center of the frame, and it doesn't wind up in the middle. There can be parallax in other ways but minimizing this one aspect of it seems like a great idea. Vertical is different, but overall I feel like viewfinder is very well designed for compositional use. It's one small detail, but I think the Ricoh/Pentax designers made sure that a lot of the small details add up into something quite nice. Overall, I just love the shooting experience of this camera. The specs aren't amazing, but the use? It feels great. I have a fully-manual, fully mechanical K-1000, and a PZ-20 which is fully auto. Both take great photos, but the PZ-20 sometimes feels a bit soulless (might as well shoot digital) and the K-1000 is a bit more fiddly (might as well shoot Medium Format). The 17 tries to split the difference--manual enough to remain interesting and engaging, but automatic enough to keep things casual. I can understand the 17 feeling big compared to other compacts, but it's very small and light compared to an SLR, so it depends on your point of reference. The grip in the hand, the nice feel of the winder (better than most of my SLRs, I figure), the convenience of an built-in flash. I think it all adds up to a very nice shooting experience. A different one from going manual, being precise--a different camera for a different mood. I don't always want to meter for my TLR or the 3D printed Chroma 612. Looking at the world through ground glass can be an amazing way to spend an afternoon, but I don't love my results from my TLR unless I'm shooting on a tripod, and I don't always want that. Then there's half-frame. I think it's a good choice. Frankly, APS-C digital has a lot of image quality benefits over 135 full-frame. I feel like my K-1 rivals 6x6, without the hassle of scanning. If bigger film formats already feel like an image quality compromise compared to digital, I figure I'd mostly rather shoot twice as many shots. If this was full-frame at the same cost and size, I don't think I'd complain, but being able to shoot more feels good, too. And the IQ from this is a solid step up from the Reto/Kodak H35 models, with a better lens and an actual exposure system. Lastly, price. I personally don't think it's inappropriately high or overpriced, but $500 isn't a small amount of money. It's certainly possible to take better pictures cheaper. Is there a camera which better, cheaper, with better tactility, easier to use, and either rock-solid dependability or a warranty so you can trust that you haven't flushed your money down the drain? That's less certain. I could buy an Olympus Pen or Canon Demi, but navigating the used market to find one that's in good condition, and then doing routine service on them is non-negligible. There's light seals to replace, leaf shutters get sticky, meters lose accuracy. I could get an Olympus XA or another nice compact, but electronic compacts can become bricks if anything goes wrong--they're mostly beyond capacity to repair. So I don't feel the 17 is a terrible decision--you're paying for peace of mind, for a camera that just works. And I wager that between manufacturing and development costs that the price probably isn't unfair. But I get it if $500 just isn't in someone's budget, and I'm sympathetic. TL;DR: it's just dang fun to shoot with this.
The size of the p17 should clue you into the fact that they will soon release the same body as a full frame soon enough. Looks to me that all of your pictures were keepers and that in itself is the main reason to me to buy the p17. Also I have no problem holding the body vertically to get horizontal shots so that’s a non issue for me. Thanks for showing us through your pictures how reliable of a performer the p17 is.
i've seen some videos about the 17 for fun and the pros and cons are always more or less the same, feels cheap in this plastic but feels tactile with the advance lever and manual rewind, most liked the exposure compensation dial and some complained about the lack of manual settings, good lens but the zone focus is always polemic, but damn, you're the first one to talk about that bs blue tint on the viewfinder, thank you so much
Great video, and an interesting camera to be sure! The perspective on price is really good, particularly because if cared for properly, cameras have a ton of longevity.
It really looks like Pentax has intention of using this same chassis for a future full frame camera. The body size and the way that the frame mask inside is working, all look like they left room for a full frame version. As a half frame, I do like it, though I would have personally preferred a square format over the vertical.
I really appreciate the thoughtfulness that went into this video! I haven't seen anyone talk about launch prices adjusted for inflation. Although it gave me more sympathy towards Pentax for the price, as a film photographer in 2024 I still think it just isn't economic to drop that much on this camera (especially as a beginner) when you can get a full frame manual camera with many of the same features and more for such a fraction of the price.
I'm only halfway through my first roll through it so I can only speak about the physical camera -- but I like it. I'm not their target demographic. I don't use ig or similar. I'm old enough that for most of my life film cameras were the only option and I'm not new to cameras. But when I'm shooting film I'm mostly using heavy cameras that feel like they were built to double as a weapon. Which is great, it inspires confidence which this Pentax doesn't -- but sometimes you need a lighter camera, especially one with a warranty. The last 6 months it seems every time I go to grab two film cameras, one of them isn't working. I'm very thankful that a lot of these old cameras have no electronics and can typically be brought back to life with a repair, but I'm even more thankful that this Pentax 17 won't require me to drop $200 for a service or CLA. I wish the Pentax warranty was longer but I really have no complaints with this camera so far, assuming my first roll develops without issue. With how much I've spent on getting cameras serviced and acknowledging that a "cheap" old camera doesn't always stay cheap, I have no problem with this one being $500. Let alone any comparison to new digital cameras which all of mine cost well above this.
I really enjoyed you honest comments and useful video. You covered most everything about this very interesting camera and thanks for your work. I preordered and got an early Pentax 17. I'm a camera collector and heavy shooter so this is a nice addition to my stable. I already have 4 half-frame cameras so I know what to expect with the format. I like shooting diptychs and with half-frame, don't hesitate to bracket or experiment so I have no trouble finishing a roll. I've shot HP5+, Ultramax 400 and Phoenix 200 in mine already. Note that none of these are known for fine grain, especially Phoenix. About the portrait orientation; it is necessary if you want a typical looking camera with film moving horizontally. It takes a tall camera to shoot horizontal format. I can do it with my 1925 Ansco Memo but it is a bit primitive compared to the Pentax and others. As to those who compare half or full frame to smartphones, it is not the perfection of shooting images but the fun of shooting film that draws photographers to embrace film and I know you video will be a big help for people who want to understand the experience Pentax 17 experience..
thoroughly surprised by this camera and appreciate your honest review (esp re the price cuz I was shocked by it too). I definitely am interested in this as an everyday camera especially because it's half frame
Pentax had to bring back retired engineers to explain how a traditional manual film-winding mechanism worked. I'm glad the knowledge is back. Cannot wait for the rumoured next 3 film camera models.
I appreciate your thoughtful review. I bought this camera and am half way through my second roll of film. I’m really looking forward to seeing the results. As an old guy, when all is said and done, I find the Oentax 17 to be an incredibly fun camera to shoot with.
In I used a 4:50 1963 Cannon Demi 1/2 frame versus Exacta 35 mm 50mm lenses . Film Kodachrome ASA 25 -- the trio was a week in Papua , New Guinea which were then United Nations Trust Territories administered by Australia. We used up 9 rolls of film then were able to compare when projected on a 5 foot wide screen at home in Brisbane. 2 years later we added an Olympus 1/2 frame and a Minolta 8mm movie camera for a trip where we drove for 2,000 miles in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. This equipped Dad with Exacta and Minolta while Mom and I used the half frames. We kept a telephoto on the Exacta and used the Cannon and Olympus to catch the moving animals and general shots. Results were great...
Thanks for the review! I have a Pentax Spotmatic and seeing a new Pentax camera out is so exciting! I’m not sure if I’ll get one for myself but I have a few friends who would appreciate this camera as a starter into 35mm photography. And I guess if I save enough money, I might add this to my collection. Wonderful review
First of all fantastic video, these are the types of reviews i love to watch, rich in detail and seemingly unbiased. It's an interesting idea to create a "new" film camera in a digitally dominant age, however, i think i speak for many film photographers when i say that in 2024, what we want is a true manual, digital/film camera hybrid that has a digital sensor to preview our shots after every exposure, it's the logical step in "new" film camera technological development. The body of a manual film camera that shoots film, with full manual exposure control, the viewfinder of a highend digital camera like for instance an A7R, that uses the film camera's light meter to give an accurate preview of the film camera's exposure before and after every shutter release. And before people start commenting "ohhh but that's the magic of film is to learn exposure and know how to properly expose and have to wait to develop your film before you get to view your shots!" That's absolutely fine, go buy literally any other film camera that has ever been created. My point is simply this, film is expensive, developing film is expensive, it's time consuming, it's not good for the environment, you can be the greatest film photographer in the world and still have occasional shit exposures, it happens to me, it happens to you, it happens to them too. Why not have a camera that can alleviate any wasted shots entirely, a perfect exposure, every time, a blending of digital technology with analog hardware and film light metering? We have the technology for both, we just need someone to blend them gracefully. I know there are some kickstarter projects related to this but i would love to see a big name like pentax, nikon, canon or fujifilm step up and make this become a reality. Just my thoughts.
Interesting thoughts. I’ve wondered about whether it could be possible to integrate a sensor into a film camera that’s used not only for preview, but mainly for autofocus. Imagine modern mirrorless AF performance in a film camera. That’s never been possible, and really wide apertures are kinda useless even on the best DSLRs when you get close enough to a moving subject. I imagine it would be pretty hard to pull of from an engineering standpoint, because you’d essentially have to have either a mirror like in an SLR that mirrors the image to a sensor, or have a sensor in front of the film that moves out of the way (essentially as a shutter maybe?) when you release the shutter. That seems less likely to be possible. In either case the camera would have to offest the focus between image preview and exposing the film. Probably doable, but something that would require a bit of RND.
When they released this camera with so much hype over it, I thought "man, what an overrated thing they did, what is this?". For the price of the K1000 at the time it was released, this 17 is never worth the same price. I was excited by the hype they made on Instagram and was disappointed when I saw it. And your video says exactly what I think about it 😂 I'm happy to save my money for another camera. Maybe the next one, if they don't make another one like this 👀
Thanks for your honest opinion! Always loving your videos and your laid back approach to photography without all that gear hype. Btw: Is that you aswering the older couple in the video? What a difference language and accents make😅
im kinda shocked the stock in Tokyo/Japan is like gone...thanks for a great video I should of snagged one when it was up for reservation. I tried it at the Pentax Club House in Tokyo and I have to admit... this camera is not a flop...its a total success hoping to snag the second batch when it goes for sale
It's so uncommon to see a "Зенит" with cyrillic letters on it in your hands. I'm from Belarus and I'm now using Zenit with its helios-44 lens as the main film camera, and I got it for free from my dad who was using it when he was your age😄 However, I'm also considering finally buying something less heavy to bring it with me more often. Pentax 17 seems to be a really nice companion in this regard.
thank you for such an informative video! honestly this might have convinced me that the Pentax 17 is for me, as I find myself shooting a lot more vertical photos and I have been looking for a half-frame camera
You can find a nice example of the Konica Recorder half-frame camera for about $200 if you’re patient. It’s autofocus and auto exposure, and the default format is landscape images.
@@SomeUnremarkableGuy The film in the Recorder runs vertically, so the default orientation of the negatives is landscape. The Pentax 17 and all of the classic Pen half frame cameras have film that runs horizontally.
Wonderful review on the camera. I really appreciate your effort of comparing camera prices from now and then. And it was really cool to actually hear you speaking german! 😂 Merci dawei und bis zum nächsten moi
I thought it is worth mentioning, with the price you pay, you get NEW film camera with warranty. You dont have to worry about the camera failing halfway went shooting a roll. I think pentax made great decisions with this release and definitely aims toward beginner or those who always wanted to try film but too intimidating with the available choices and buying vintage camera that may fail anytime. It shoots half frame, more photos per roll due to film price increasing by the minute. It is lightweight so people can bring it anywhere. You get 48/72 exposure per roll, you're gonna want to have it with you most of the time to finish the roll. I wish pentax great success with these release and continue to release more film camera for different audience. 😊
$500 is an entirely reasonable price. It's a brand new product that comes with a warranty and is guaranteed to work for the next 40 years. An old film camera built in the 80's will continue to work until it doesn't, and it's already 40 years old so part of the reason the price is so low now is because of the age.
Pricing is unfortunate but yeah, understandable. But you also need to factor film prices into that... It's a huge problem, and a huge barrier to entry for young photographers. It instantly takes this camera from "expensive but understandable" to completely It is a really cool camera. It's heartwarming to see a brand new film camera come out with a bunch of tactile controls and it looks beautiful. The vertical half frame is a really cool idea that targets a younger audience that have grown up being used to vertical content. It's also just a cool idea for a camera to natively shoot in portrait without having to turn the camera body. Certainly will naturally bring out a different style of shooting. If only the camera allowed for interchangeable lenses, I think it would honestly be a perfect camera. But I can understand why they chose not to go that route and aimed for simplicity. I honestly never would have expected to see a camera like this come out brand new in 2024 - I hope that it is a glimpse at other possibilities to come. Film photography is in such a strange but interesting stage right now. Right on the verge between dying out, or having a massive resurgence. We're seeing film prices shoot up and up, with more companies killing off production. But at the same time there is more and more interest being created for film photography. With how INSANELY popular Fuji's Instax cameras and instant film is right now, especially in Japan, this Pentax makes me dream of Fuji making a similar play. If they aimed to bridge young photographers who are shooting on instant film, to transition them over to 35mm film. Maybe we could see a resurgence in Fuji 35mm film, and even a Fuji film camera similar to the Pentax 17. It's a no brainer that Pentax made the 17 to get more sales into their own pocket, instead of the used market for old Pentax cameras. Fingers crossed for a late 2020's film photography renaissance
My thinking about the size: it’s to do with the weight of it. I LOVE how light it is, but when you wanna use light and cheap materials (not inherently a bad thing), you can make it more rigid and durable by just using more of it. So yeah it’s big for a halfframe, but it feels durable enough for me while staying light. I prefer this over a smaller but heavier metal camera which might be less comfortable to hold
I'm only halfway though the video, but it seems like they were aiming for an all-rounder camera that anyone COULD buy rather than appealing to one purpose specifically, which doesn't always work, but sometimes does and honestly I think I'll give it a shot.
Another excellent video, Ted. Always appreciate your work. Curious to know if you can provide music credits? There were a few tunes that I’d love to dig deeper about the artist. Be well and be kind.
Great review! Most honest of the reviews here on RUclips. As to the remark about the price, yes, it is about the price of those "budget cameras" after accounting for inflation, but after taking into account the build quality, there is again a big discrepancy. It is simply too expensive, especially for an electronic camera.
I got some hands on time at a local camera store and really loved the tactility like the dial clicks etc. alas, my pre-order didn't make the first batch...
Honestly, I can’t believe I’m saying this, but the price sounds fine. Considering they won’t sell many, 500 is quite palatable. I was worried they would sell it for an offensive amount. Still, sucks that it’s vertical but makes sense why they did it.
I like what pentax did. It's well thought out, original. Personally I wish the lens was a little less wide. But I've been thinking of getting one anyway. Honestly the price isn't that bad when you consider how much some camera equipment costs, eg specific lenses. Best part about it for me is ability to shoot macro and regular in same lens.
ohh i would loooove to gift this camera to a number of freinds. Its perfect for everyone who loves to take pictures, without diving too deep into photography. its also as it seems super easy to use and the decision to make it shoot half frame is perfectly suited for it too, since people will mostly post in only on instagram anyawys. .....very excited to gift it to a friend before their journey to korea for 5 months ...that is until i saw the price .. it just is out of reach for me (as a student) so i will be sticking to the used camera market. but still cool that it exist, and thanks for the as always beautiful review video :)
@@linjicakonikon7666what do you want to use other then Instagram? It's the only app most people have that's half decent for sharing photos. All the photography specific alternatives are very obscure so no one has them.
Love the review, it's a good looking camera but I agree with you that it isn't perfect. My problem with this camera, as a relative beginner myself, is that the value isn't there. You made a great argument for the price not being outrageous compared to similar film camera release prices, but my counterpoint is that those cameras provided more functionality at that price point. Sure, "value" calculations get iffy if you bring in compatibility with other lenses (which aren't free) with the convenience of the Pentax 17, but that is precisely the problem. The Pentax 17, as a new film camera, has to compete with all of the existing gear available at resale in the eyes of a new potential photographer. Compared to resale offerings, this camera still has plenty of use for it's convenience factor, but is it one you'd want to learn photography with? It really seems like it wouldn't be a bad choice for someone's first camera, but is less appealing as someone's first camera with the intent to get deeply involved in photography. At the $500 price point, it's hard to imagine it would beat the starting bundle you could put together secondhand. Now, as a gift for someone else? Maaaaybe. At best, it seems like the target audience is people already entrenched in the hobby who are curious as to what a modern film camera looks and feels like. $500 isn't so bad when you're already have spent more than you'd care to keep track of on other cameras and lenses. In that context, it's a great deal that you have an entire new camera to play with that can fill a number of niches, whether it be as a new daily carry, an intro to half frame shots, or just something modern for the shelf collection. If this doesn't land with the big splash Ricoh Imaging/Pentax was hoping for with their Film Project initiative, I hope they keep at it. As for the Pentax 17, maybe I'll find one of these for cheap in 15 years at a yard sale if the build quality isn't an issue.
Great video. I do agree that a bog standard full frame or "normal" 35mm camera would have been better; i would have bought one in a second. However; when you look at the size of the camera itself; i do think the chassis is capable of holding a standard 35mm configuration. The frame window has to be made differently, the film advance and potentially the lens.
Hallo Teo. Ich besitze noch einige Kataloge aus den 80er Jahren. Eine Olympus XA2 mit dem LZ11-Blitz würde heute preisbereinigt 426€ kosten. Ähnlich sieht es mit der Minox 35 aus. Eine Rollei 35 läge bei 507€. Die Pentax 17 liegt also preislich auf einem Niveau wie andere ernstzunehmende Kompaktkameras aus den frühen 80ger Jahren. Beste Grüße aus Landeck, Greg von analoginsights
It seems to me that the main reason for the height of the camera is the size of the viewfinder. I imagine it provides a significantly bigger and brighter view than, say, an Olympus Pen. I have no idea why it is so wide though.
I think it's unfortunate that it had to be as expensive as it is, but I doubt that they could sell it for much less without losing money on it. As it is, it's just not worth it for most people, although it does look like it's a much better camera than most other new half-frame point and shoot cameras right now. I also love that at least one camera manufacturer is trying to make new, good quality, somewhat affordable film cameras. Yes I'm still mad that the Leica M6 reissue is nearly £5,000 _without a lens_
I especially like how you put the price of the 17 into perspective. People these days simply don‘t know how much a new camera has to cost…how should they?! The only analog cameras sold in recent years were Leicas which are so much more expensive…
Lomo sells the LC-Wide new for $399 - $100 less than the Pentax 17. It is a fantastic camera and not only does it shoot half frame, but flip a switch and it also shoots full frame. So you can buy an new 35mm camera that offers more than the Pentax for $100 less.
@@husshardan3511 Mhh, hard to compare in my opinion. The Lomo only has bulb mode or 1/500 exposure time. And 400$ is definitely a lot of money for such a limited camera. Also, I wouldn’t necessarily consider half frame as a limitation. Nobody would say that he/she wouldn‘t use 35mm as 120 is much bigger. It‘s simply another format, but one that is enough for most things in everyday photography.
Do you think they make a more “premium” Pentax 35 next year with a different lens? I feel like you could keep the body almost the same, maybe give it slightly better glass like a 40 f2 or 2.8? Or even 50 2.8. I’d definitely pick one up
I don't love the automatic vertical format either, and 72 shots is A LOT. While I appreciate saving money, especially if you need to switch film as lighting and locations change, it would take me forever to finish that roll. However, I am also not running low on film, as I have a few big rolls of cinema film that I downspool and process myself (removing the remjet layer after development) so its super cheap.
Nice video, you pretty much nailed how P17 is. I would not agree on not premium feel, I like that is is so light be me being tech guy I suppose I have bigger affinity toward modern materials like plastic. Camera itself is cute, turned me back into kid who was happily snapping around with Zenit 3M and Fomapan film without any regard to frames or cost :D I think it is great snapshot camera and for those who like film, want a good and reliable camera but don't want to carry around SLR or experience a hassle of getting working used camera or CLA a bought and not so perfect - this is new toy to get. For more serious photography I still take Pentax K2 or Zenit 12XP but just to walk around with roll of cheap film this is perfect for me.
Great review! I LOVE shooting vertical. I think I’d be the perfect customer. Good insight on the blue viewfinder…I don’t think I’d like that. Interesting about using less grainy film to compensate for half frame. Thank you! ❤
Great review. Your critique of the camera’s build materials (magnesium alloy and plastic) being disappointing seems somewhat shortsighted especially considering your XA-3 is 100% plastic. Many other cameras in that era were also.
Even though this camera has a good amount of plastic theres a possibility that its still durable. I have a Pentax kp, which does have alot of plastic and ive had no issues with durability or reliability. Pentax did a great job with the styling. I also like the metal top and bottom, good for durability and paint cant wear off the corners and look ugly as would be the case in an all plastic body. He's right about us used to cheap used pricing on film gear.
I decided to put new light Seals in my Pentax Spotamatic SP11 I've owned for a couple of years it needed new light Seals and i perfer a 35mm camera with interchangeable lenses as I have number of Takumar M42 lenses for the camera so it made since for me to fix what I had for few dollars instead of buying a half frame camera
I would love to see a re-released K1000. But I guarantee it would not be $600 :) The inflation calculations are skewed against other rising manufacturing costs. But still, it's a hard sell. I want to support Pentax's venture, but I'll hold off. They did get the film bug back on me and pushed me towards a PEN-F. And I'm curious what that Rollei 35 AF will actually launch at.
may be the price should campare with the KYOCERA SAMURAI is suitable,or the olympus pen-ee series.because they all belong to the half frame camera.And i like the series of KYOCERA SAMURAI ,because its was vary cool and you can use Horizontal composition easily, besides, KYOCERA SAMURAI has auto focus and Accurate metering.
How do you know when to use exposure compensation? I also have the XA3 and the Pentax 17 both with exposure compensation. I had thought that the +1.5 exposure on the XA3 was for when a subject had bright light behind it in order to increase the exposure of the subject, but I also feel like I’d just be guessing most of the time
Hi, thank you for this very helpful review. I’m a newbie and I’ve got this Pentax 17. In order to protect the lens, I’ve bought an UV filter (“Urth”), but I would like to ask wether it could affect the quality of the photos. Thank you.
This camera is truly created for the Gen Z/Gen Alpha photographer who wishes they were a part of the film generation. What I mean by this is that it has one too many dials where dials are not needed. In the heydays of 1980-1990 point and shoot film cameras, most modes were selected via a couple of buttons or toggles. The Pentax 17's form appeals to the digital native photographer and uses modern ergonomics (hand-grip). Again, probably done to differentiate it from a smartphone's flat/rectangular design. I am pleasantly surprised by the image quality, however, it is equally viable to spend $150 on an overhauled Olympus half-frame camera and the remaining $350 on 25 rolls of good film, which, I presume is above the average number of rolls a new film photographer who purchases the Pentax 17 will shoot before giving up film photography altogether. The camera's price tag really brings out the cynic in me.
Teo, great review and insight. Thank you for pointing out the price in comparison to film cameras of the past. I think a lot of people forgot how much things cost in the past. I applaud Pentax for making a film camera and hopefully they continue to make new ones. Thanks for sharing! Awesome photos!
So here are my thoughts on the Pentax 17. What do you think of it? I hope you enjoyed the video! :)
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Hi Teo, nice vid! I think the 17 is big because they already made the base frame for the 35mm version aka the next camera. Just my thoughts.
Maybe you can try to get pentax to make the film compartment of the camera vertical so the half frame now defaults to horizontal images, and now it has become a "thick phone" that has "film tones" that people can have fun shooting images with, just that the image takes some process and wait time to get back and share😂 ok I'm kidding, and a nice video Teo! I too would have hoped something like the original Olympus XA be improved with the tech of today but still retain it's vibe, but that's a dream that may never come true.
I pre-ordered this camera on the first day it was released and received it about two weeks later. I’m really enjoying this camera. It has a point-and-shoot feel and is very lightweight, making it easy to carry around. I haven't developed the pictures yet, as I've only taken 68 shots so far. Given how expensive film can be, I’ve always wanted to use a half-frame camera. This has been a very happy purchase for me.
i would love to see the results if i may! and congratulations on a new camera!
As a brazilian, it's always a joy to hear our bossa nova being played in your videos, Teo!
It's such a beautiful art form, love from the UK
Regarding the price, this is new technology, not just recycled tech from the 60s-80s. Research and development is costly.
Well, there was the Olympus Pen EES-2 which released in 1968 and did almost all of what this did, and then later the Olympus Pen EF which also had flash (but a plastic body) That said, I'm still glad this camera exists, and the price will come down over time.
The question is why??
@@rk-wy8pu what do you mean why?
@@rk-wy8pu Why indeed.
It's nought more than a commercial move bij pntx,
doesn't bring anything essentially new. A toy.
Did you notice anything new then?
I did not.
Seeing the original prices for camera’s adjusted for inflation made me realize that prices for camera’s haven’t really changed. Like the inflated price for the Minolta is basically the same price for a brand new Sony A7 camera, and that honestly makes sense to me, and in fact it’s honestly amazing that prices haven’t skyrocketed more for average consumer cameras in the last 30-40 years; especially for what camera’s that are way more capable than ones back then.
True, and I don’t feel like the camera is overpriced, considering how much development went into it. It’s a completely new concept, new aesthetic design, newly designed lens, and a bunch of research went into reviving some of the mechanical parts from Pentax cameras of the past.
I think what people mean when they scoff at the price is the fact that the Pentax 17 will have to compete with used prices of old cameras. Honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Pentax 17 doesn’t even make Pentax much of a profit (if any, yet); it might be a long term investment in the film photography market that may pay off only in several years. But the fact remains that when used cameras are so much cheaper, a >$500 price tag for a casual camera is a bit of a headscratcher for many.
Couldn't agree more with what you were saying about the camera. I wished it was made with more rugged materials and the fact it wasn't a full frame camera was a bit of a deal breaker for myself. I feel like it would have been a near perfect camera for beginners and even experienced people in the hobby/craft to be able to have a more everyday casual yet more sophisticated camera.
Teo , thanks for the thoughtful review. I appreciate your assessment of what it is and not trashing what it is not. I am disappointed some influencers felt the need to be negative. Pentax stepped up and made a new top to bottom film camera in 2024. 2024!! Let’s celebrate what we have. Oh, thanks for the price comparison. Good information.
Hey Teo, I'm very happy to hear Brazilian music in your video, greetings from Brazil.
Thank you for comparing the 17's price to film cameras from the 80s and 90s. I compared it to a point and shoot from the mid 80s (about $150-$200, was what my memory told me), and even that was nearer $400 or $500 today. IMO, the 17 is a bargain, in reality! I I am still shooting my first roll on my own copy, but think that I will like it. It certainly gives me confidence that my ancient film cameras don't (they all date from the 50s through to the 70s). I was also suspicious of the half-frame, but one benefit I am discovering is that since I'm getting 48 shots on this roll, I feel more freedom to just shoot, vs when I shoot full frame, or medium format, where I want every photo to "count". I'll see how sharp the images are when I finally develop the film, and go to enlarge the images in the dark room, but the sample images I've seen online have given me hope--we'll see. :-)
It's so freaking beautiful! I'm so happy it came to existance!
Actually a decent review of the camera, so many others miss features and missrepresent this product by rushing out the video during the first week of the camera being released. Top stuff man :)
Lovely shots! ❤ The zone focusing system on this camera is truly cute and self-explanatory.
Phenomenal job Teo! This is the best review and selection of photos that I've seen regarding the Pentax 17. I purchased this camera as soon as it was released, and I'm still working on my first roll.
The Olympus XA w/ flash released at $200 though after a while you could find it at NY discounters for about $175. We have to remember that producing this first-in-a-long-time model was a big endeavor since much of the equipment to produce film cameras, and the technical know how was gone. I think $500 is a fair price.
id be head over heels if pentax made a new rangefinder style camera
K1kii? Would be cool too
If they'd just do an M39 rangefinder that'd be great.
@@theothertonydutch Ah I just remember that Pentax is known for making only SLRs: a bunch of M42 35mm SLR, Pentax 645, Pentax 67. Perhaps they can design the body, then the question is who will make the lens? Modern screw mount lens are kinda rare (oh hi there Voigt...).
I concur.
1) You live in such a magically beautiful place 2) Your exposures capture breathtaking moments of storytelling 3) The approach you have to photography has really encouraged me to grow with my Pentax K1000 (actually have two by accident) and "see" better 4) Why is it 100 degrees here (in Ohio, US) but every video you look so cozy? :3
Love it! Love your color grading when hiking up the mountain bro.
Teo, you constantly inspire me to up my content quality and videography skills. I love watching your videos man.
One thing I really like about the 17 is the way the viewfinder is directly over the centerline of the lens. There are few things I hate more than the parallax of trying to place something in the center of the frame, and it doesn't wind up in the middle. There can be parallax in other ways but minimizing this one aspect of it seems like a great idea. Vertical is different, but overall I feel like viewfinder is very well designed for compositional use. It's one small detail, but I think the Ricoh/Pentax designers made sure that a lot of the small details add up into something quite nice.
Overall, I just love the shooting experience of this camera. The specs aren't amazing, but the use? It feels great. I have a fully-manual, fully mechanical K-1000, and a PZ-20 which is fully auto. Both take great photos, but the PZ-20 sometimes feels a bit soulless (might as well shoot digital) and the K-1000 is a bit more fiddly (might as well shoot Medium Format). The 17 tries to split the difference--manual enough to remain interesting and engaging, but automatic enough to keep things casual. I can understand the 17 feeling big compared to other compacts, but it's very small and light compared to an SLR, so it depends on your point of reference. The grip in the hand, the nice feel of the winder (better than most of my SLRs, I figure), the convenience of an built-in flash. I think it all adds up to a very nice shooting experience. A different one from going manual, being precise--a different camera for a different mood. I don't always want to meter for my TLR or the 3D printed Chroma 612. Looking at the world through ground glass can be an amazing way to spend an afternoon, but I don't love my results from my TLR unless I'm shooting on a tripod, and I don't always want that.
Then there's half-frame. I think it's a good choice. Frankly, APS-C digital has a lot of image quality benefits over 135 full-frame. I feel like my K-1 rivals 6x6, without the hassle of scanning. If bigger film formats already feel like an image quality compromise compared to digital, I figure I'd mostly rather shoot twice as many shots. If this was full-frame at the same cost and size, I don't think I'd complain, but being able to shoot more feels good, too. And the IQ from this is a solid step up from the Reto/Kodak H35 models, with a better lens and an actual exposure system.
Lastly, price. I personally don't think it's inappropriately high or overpriced, but $500 isn't a small amount of money. It's certainly possible to take better pictures cheaper. Is there a camera which better, cheaper, with better tactility, easier to use, and either rock-solid dependability or a warranty so you can trust that you haven't flushed your money down the drain? That's less certain. I could buy an Olympus Pen or Canon Demi, but navigating the used market to find one that's in good condition, and then doing routine service on them is non-negligible. There's light seals to replace, leaf shutters get sticky, meters lose accuracy. I could get an Olympus XA or another nice compact, but electronic compacts can become bricks if anything goes wrong--they're mostly beyond capacity to repair. So I don't feel the 17 is a terrible decision--you're paying for peace of mind, for a camera that just works. And I wager that between manufacturing and development costs that the price probably isn't unfair. But I get it if $500 just isn't in someone's budget, and I'm sympathetic.
TL;DR: it's just dang fun to shoot with this.
Your comment wasn’t too long, so I DID read it, and while I haven’t held the Pentax 17 in my hands, I think your points make a lot of sense. =)
came from the algorithm, just wanna say that your production quality is top-notch especially with those sweet povs and colour grading, instant sub
They've nailed the tactility!
I'm still blown away by how beautiful the area you live in is, every single video I watch
The size of the p17 should clue you into the fact that they will soon release the same body as a full frame soon enough. Looks to me that all of your pictures were keepers and that in itself is the main reason to me to buy the p17. Also I have no problem holding the body vertically to get horizontal shots so that’s a non issue for me. Thanks for showing us through your pictures how reliable of a performer the p17 is.
I am glad you mentioned the Olympus XA. I think people were expecting a K1000 but its actually closer to an reborn XA just half frame.
Being much smaller than pntx17 XA is FF; not a toy but a pocketable photographer's cam.
Development and production costs for something designed from scratch will be high. It’s a very successful design.
i've seen some videos about the 17 for fun and the pros and cons are always more or less the same, feels cheap in this plastic but feels tactile with the advance lever and manual rewind, most liked the exposure compensation dial and some complained about the lack of manual settings, good lens but the zone focus is always polemic, but damn, you're the first one to talk about that bs blue tint on the viewfinder, thank you so much
Great video, and an interesting camera to be sure! The perspective on price is really good, particularly because if cared for properly, cameras have a ton of longevity.
Beautiful beautiful review, it brings back the memories from Innsbruck. I can totally agree with your points ❤
It really looks like Pentax has intention of using this same chassis for a future full frame camera. The body size and the way that the frame mask inside is working, all look like they left room for a full frame version. As a half frame, I do like it, though I would have personally preferred a square format over the vertical.
another piece of art, and an amazing review. thank you teo
I really appreciate the thoughtfulness that went into this video! I haven't seen anyone talk about launch prices adjusted for inflation. Although it gave me more sympathy towards Pentax for the price, as a film photographer in 2024 I still think it just isn't economic to drop that much on this camera (especially as a beginner) when you can get a full frame manual camera with many of the same features and more for such a fraction of the price.
I'm only halfway through my first roll through it so I can only speak about the physical camera -- but I like it. I'm not their target demographic. I don't use ig or similar. I'm old enough that for most of my life film cameras were the only option and I'm not new to cameras. But when I'm shooting film I'm mostly using heavy cameras that feel like they were built to double as a weapon. Which is great, it inspires confidence which this Pentax doesn't -- but sometimes you need a lighter camera, especially one with a warranty. The last 6 months it seems every time I go to grab two film cameras, one of them isn't working. I'm very thankful that a lot of these old cameras have no electronics and can typically be brought back to life with a repair, but I'm even more thankful that this Pentax 17 won't require me to drop $200 for a service or CLA. I wish the Pentax warranty was longer but I really have no complaints with this camera so far, assuming my first roll develops without issue. With how much I've spent on getting cameras serviced and acknowledging that a "cheap" old camera doesn't always stay cheap, I have no problem with this one being $500. Let alone any comparison to new digital cameras which all of mine cost well above this.
I really enjoyed you honest comments and useful video. You covered most everything about this very interesting camera and thanks for your work.
I preordered and got an early Pentax 17. I'm a camera collector and heavy shooter so this is a nice addition to my stable. I already have 4 half-frame cameras so I know what to expect with the format. I like shooting diptychs and with half-frame, don't hesitate to bracket or experiment so I have no trouble finishing a roll. I've shot HP5+, Ultramax 400 and Phoenix 200 in mine already. Note that none of these are known for fine grain, especially Phoenix.
About the portrait orientation; it is necessary if you want a typical looking camera with film moving horizontally. It takes a tall camera to shoot horizontal format. I can do it with my 1925 Ansco Memo but it is a bit primitive compared to the Pentax and others. As to those who compare half or full frame to smartphones, it is not the perfection of shooting images but the fun of shooting film that draws photographers to embrace film and I know you video will be a big help for people who want to understand the experience Pentax 17 experience..
Great video! Good to see new film cameras coming out nowadays
thoroughly surprised by this camera and appreciate your honest review (esp re the price cuz I was shocked by it too). I definitely am interested in this as an everyday camera especially because it's half frame
Pentax had to bring back retired engineers to explain how a traditional manual film-winding mechanism worked. I'm glad the knowledge is back. Cannot wait for the rumoured next 3 film camera models.
I appreciate your thoughtful review. I bought this camera and am half way through my second roll of film. I’m really looking forward to seeing the results. As an old guy, when all is said and done, I find the Oentax 17 to be an incredibly fun camera to shoot with.
In I used a 4:50 1963 Cannon Demi 1/2 frame versus Exacta 35 mm 50mm lenses . Film Kodachrome ASA 25 -- the trio was a week in Papua , New Guinea which were then United Nations Trust Territories administered by Australia. We used up 9 rolls of film then were able to compare when projected on a 5 foot wide screen at home in Brisbane.
2 years later we added an Olympus 1/2 frame and a Minolta 8mm movie camera for a trip where we drove for 2,000 miles in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
This equipped Dad with Exacta and Minolta while Mom and I used the half frames. We kept a telephoto on the Exacta and used the Cannon and Olympus to catch the moving animals and general shots.
Results were great...
It’s always a nice surprise to watch your videos and find out the background music is a Brazilian bossa nova
Thanks for the review! I have a Pentax Spotmatic and seeing a new Pentax camera out is so exciting! I’m not sure if I’ll get one for myself but I have a few friends who would appreciate this camera as a starter into 35mm photography. And I guess if I save enough money, I might add this to my collection. Wonderful review
A review that I can completely agree with on every point!
First of all fantastic video, these are the types of reviews i love to watch, rich in detail and seemingly unbiased.
It's an interesting idea to create a "new" film camera in a digitally dominant age, however, i think i speak for many film photographers when i say that in 2024, what we want is a true manual, digital/film camera hybrid that has a digital sensor to preview our shots after every exposure, it's the logical step in "new" film camera technological development. The body of a manual film camera that shoots film, with full manual exposure control, the viewfinder of a highend digital camera like for instance an A7R, that uses the film camera's light meter to give an accurate preview of the film camera's exposure before and after every shutter release. And before people start commenting "ohhh but that's the magic of film is to learn exposure and know how to properly expose and have to wait to develop your film before you get to view your shots!" That's absolutely fine, go buy literally any other film camera that has ever been created. My point is simply this, film is expensive, developing film is expensive, it's time consuming, it's not good for the environment, you can be the greatest film photographer in the world and still have occasional shit exposures, it happens to me, it happens to you, it happens to them too. Why not have a camera that can alleviate any wasted shots entirely, a perfect exposure, every time, a blending of digital technology with analog hardware and film light metering? We have the technology for both, we just need someone to blend them gracefully. I know there are some kickstarter projects related to this but i would love to see a big name like pentax, nikon, canon or fujifilm step up and make this become a reality. Just my thoughts.
Interesting thoughts. I’ve wondered about whether it could be possible to integrate a sensor into a film camera that’s used not only for preview, but mainly for autofocus. Imagine modern mirrorless AF performance in a film camera. That’s never been possible, and really wide apertures are kinda useless even on the best DSLRs when you get close enough to a moving subject.
I imagine it would be pretty hard to pull of from an engineering standpoint, because you’d essentially have to have either a mirror like in an SLR that mirrors the image to a sensor, or have a sensor in front of the film that moves out of the way (essentially as a shutter maybe?) when you release the shutter. That seems less likely to be possible.
In either case the camera would have to offest the focus between image preview and exposing the film. Probably doable, but something that would require a bit of RND.
Great idea!
How much you want to pay for the camera?
@@RainCatDog007 I think a competitive price is fine
When they released this camera with so much hype over it, I thought "man, what an overrated thing they did, what is this?".
For the price of the K1000 at the time it was released, this 17 is never worth the same price.
I was excited by the hype they made on Instagram and was disappointed when I saw it. And your video says exactly what I think about it 😂
I'm happy to save my money for another camera. Maybe the next one, if they don't make another one like this 👀
dissapointed about what exactly?
Thanks for your honest opinion! Always loving your videos and your laid back approach to photography without all that gear hype. Btw: Is that you aswering the older couple in the video? What a difference language and accents make😅
im kinda shocked the stock in Tokyo/Japan is like gone...thanks for a great video I should of snagged one when it was up for reservation. I tried it at the Pentax Club House in Tokyo and I have to admit...
this camera is not a flop...its a total success hoping to snag the second batch when it goes for sale
Aye!! I was in this poll for the thumbnail and you chose it !!❤❤
I'm waiting for the new Rollei 35AF 🥰
It's so uncommon to see a "Зенит" with cyrillic letters on it in your hands. I'm from Belarus and I'm now using Zenit with its helios-44 lens as the main film camera, and I got it for free from my dad who was using it when he was your age😄 However, I'm also considering finally buying something less heavy to bring it with me more often. Pentax 17 seems to be a really nice companion in this regard.
thank you for such an informative video! honestly this might have convinced me that the Pentax 17 is for me, as I find myself shooting a lot more vertical photos and I have been looking for a half-frame camera
i was hoping to see what you would do with this camera glad pentax reached out
You can find a nice example of the Konica Recorder half-frame camera for about $200 if you’re patient. It’s autofocus and auto exposure, and the default format is landscape images.
how it can take landscape images by default if it is half-frame format camera?
@@SomeUnremarkableGuy The film in the Recorder runs vertically, so the default orientation of the negatives is landscape. The Pentax 17 and all of the classic Pen half frame cameras have film that runs horizontally.
Wonderful review on the camera. I really appreciate your effort of comparing camera prices from now and then. And it was really cool to actually hear you speaking german! 😂 Merci dawei und bis zum nächsten moi
I thought it is worth mentioning, with the price you pay, you get NEW film camera with warranty. You dont have to worry about the camera failing halfway went shooting a roll. I think pentax made great decisions with this release and definitely aims toward beginner or those who always wanted to try film but too intimidating with the available choices and buying vintage camera that may fail anytime. It shoots half frame, more photos per roll due to film price increasing by the minute. It is lightweight so people can bring it anywhere. You get 48/72 exposure per roll, you're gonna want to have it with you most of the time to finish the roll. I wish pentax great success with these release and continue to release more film camera for different audience. 😊
If I had the money I would 100% buy it tbh
$500 is an entirely reasonable price. It's a brand new product that comes with a warranty and is guaranteed to work for the next 40 years. An old film camera built in the 80's will continue to work until it doesn't, and it's already 40 years old so part of the reason the price is so low now is because of the age.
Pricing is unfortunate but yeah, understandable. But you also need to factor film prices into that... It's a huge problem, and a huge barrier to entry for young photographers. It instantly takes this camera from "expensive but understandable" to completely
It is a really cool camera. It's heartwarming to see a brand new film camera come out with a bunch of tactile controls and it looks beautiful. The vertical half frame is a really cool idea that targets a younger audience that have grown up being used to vertical content. It's also just a cool idea for a camera to natively shoot in portrait without having to turn the camera body. Certainly will naturally bring out a different style of shooting.
If only the camera allowed for interchangeable lenses, I think it would honestly be a perfect camera. But I can understand why they chose not to go that route and aimed for simplicity.
I honestly never would have expected to see a camera like this come out brand new in 2024 - I hope that it is a glimpse at other possibilities to come. Film photography is in such a strange but interesting stage right now. Right on the verge between dying out, or having a massive resurgence. We're seeing film prices shoot up and up, with more companies killing off production. But at the same time there is more and more interest being created for film photography.
With how INSANELY popular Fuji's Instax cameras and instant film is right now, especially in Japan, this Pentax makes me dream of Fuji making a similar play. If they aimed to bridge young photographers who are shooting on instant film, to transition them over to 35mm film. Maybe we could see a resurgence in Fuji 35mm film, and even a Fuji film camera similar to the Pentax 17.
It's a no brainer that Pentax made the 17 to get more sales into their own pocket, instead of the used market for old Pentax cameras.
Fingers crossed for a late 2020's film photography renaissance
My thinking about the size: it’s to do with the weight of it. I LOVE how light it is, but when you wanna use light and cheap materials (not inherently a bad thing), you can make it more rigid and durable by just using more of it. So yeah it’s big for a halfframe, but it feels durable enough for me while staying light. I prefer this over a smaller but heavier metal camera which might be less comfortable to hold
Now Im waiting for a full frame version :D
I'm only halfway though the video, but it seems like they were aiming for an all-rounder camera that anyone COULD buy rather than appealing to one purpose specifically, which doesn't always work, but sometimes does and honestly I think I'll give it a shot.
Another excellent video, Ted. Always appreciate your work. Curious to know if you can provide music credits? There were a few tunes that I’d love to dig deeper about the artist. Be well and be kind.
Great review! Most honest of the reviews here on RUclips. As to the remark about the price, yes, it is about the price of those "budget cameras" after accounting for inflation, but after taking into account the build quality, there is again a big discrepancy. It is simply too expensive, especially for an electronic camera.
I got some hands on time at a local camera store and really loved the tactility like the dial clicks etc. alas, my pre-order didn't make the first batch...
That intro is absolutely glorious
Honestly, I can’t believe I’m saying this, but the price sounds fine. Considering they won’t sell many, 500 is quite palatable. I was worried they would sell it for an offensive amount. Still, sucks that it’s vertical but makes sense why they did it.
I like what pentax did. It's well thought out, original. Personally I wish the lens was a little less wide. But I've been thinking of getting one anyway. Honestly the price isn't that bad when you consider how much some camera equipment costs, eg specific lenses. Best part about it for me is ability to shoot macro and regular in same lens.
ohh i would loooove to gift this camera to a number of freinds. Its perfect for everyone who loves to take pictures, without diving too deep into photography. its also as it seems super easy to use and the decision to make it shoot half frame is perfectly suited for it too, since people will mostly post in only on instagram anyawys. .....very excited to gift it to a friend before their journey to korea for 5 months ...that is until i saw the price .. it just is out of reach for me (as a student) so i will be sticking to the used camera market. but still cool that it exist, and thanks for the as always beautiful review video :)
Who uses Instagram anymore? That's so over.🙄👎
@@linjicakonikon7666what do you want to use other then Instagram? It's the only app most people have that's half decent for sharing photos. All the photography specific alternatives are very obscure so no one has them.
@@linjicakonikon7666me
Love the review, it's a good looking camera but I agree with you that it isn't perfect.
My problem with this camera, as a relative beginner myself, is that the value isn't there. You made a great argument for the price not being outrageous compared to similar film camera release prices, but my counterpoint is that those cameras provided more functionality at that price point. Sure, "value" calculations get iffy if you bring in compatibility with other lenses (which aren't free) with the convenience of the Pentax 17, but that is precisely the problem.
The Pentax 17, as a new film camera, has to compete with all of the existing gear available at resale in the eyes of a new potential photographer. Compared to resale offerings, this camera still has plenty of use for it's convenience factor, but is it one you'd want to learn photography with? It really seems like it wouldn't be a bad choice for someone's first camera, but is less appealing as someone's first camera with the intent to get deeply involved in photography. At the $500 price point, it's hard to imagine it would beat the starting bundle you could put together secondhand.
Now, as a gift for someone else? Maaaaybe. At best, it seems like the target audience is people already entrenched in the hobby who are curious as to what a modern film camera looks and feels like. $500 isn't so bad when you're already have spent more than you'd care to keep track of on other cameras and lenses. In that context, it's a great deal that you have an entire new camera to play with that can fill a number of niches, whether it be as a new daily carry, an intro to half frame shots, or just something modern for the shelf collection.
If this doesn't land with the big splash Ricoh Imaging/Pentax was hoping for with their Film Project initiative, I hope they keep at it. As for the Pentax 17, maybe I'll find one of these for cheap in 15 years at a yard sale if the build quality isn't an issue.
IVE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS VIDEO
love your videos!
Great video. I do agree that a bog standard full frame or "normal" 35mm camera would have been better; i would have bought one in a second. However; when you look at the size of the camera itself; i do think the chassis is capable of holding a standard 35mm configuration. The frame window has to be made differently, the film advance and potentially the lens.
I love your videos from Tokyo🗼
Hallo Teo. Ich besitze noch einige Kataloge aus den 80er Jahren. Eine Olympus XA2 mit dem LZ11-Blitz würde heute preisbereinigt 426€ kosten. Ähnlich sieht es mit der Minox 35 aus. Eine Rollei 35 läge bei 507€. Die Pentax 17 liegt also preislich auf einem Niveau wie andere ernstzunehmende Kompaktkameras aus den frühen 80ger Jahren.
Beste Grüße aus Landeck, Greg von analoginsights
It seems to me that the main reason for the height of the camera is the size of the viewfinder. I imagine it provides a significantly bigger and brighter view than, say, an Olympus Pen. I have no idea why it is so wide though.
I think it's unfortunate that it had to be as expensive as it is, but I doubt that they could sell it for much less without losing money on it. As it is, it's just not worth it for most people, although it does look like it's a much better camera than most other new half-frame point and shoot cameras right now. I also love that at least one camera manufacturer is trying to make new, good quality, somewhat affordable film cameras. Yes I'm still mad that the Leica M6 reissue is nearly £5,000 _without a lens_
I especially like how you put the price of the 17 into perspective. People these days simply don‘t know how much a new camera has to cost…how should they?! The only analog cameras sold in recent years were Leicas which are so much more expensive…
Lomo sells the LC-Wide new for $399 - $100 less than the Pentax 17. It is a fantastic camera and not only does it shoot half frame, but flip a switch and it also shoots full frame.
So you can buy an new 35mm camera that offers more than the Pentax for $100 less.
@@husshardan3511 Mhh, hard to compare in my opinion. The Lomo only has bulb mode or 1/500 exposure time. And 400$ is definitely a lot of money for such a limited camera.
Also, I wouldn’t necessarily consider half frame as a limitation. Nobody would say that he/she wouldn‘t use 35mm as 120 is much bigger. It‘s simply another
format, but one that is enough for most things in everyday photography.
Do you think they make a more “premium” Pentax 35 next year with a different lens? I feel like you could keep the body almost the same, maybe give it slightly better glass like a 40 f2 or 2.8? Or even 50 2.8. I’d definitely pick one up
I don't love the automatic vertical format either, and 72 shots is A LOT. While I appreciate saving money, especially if you need to switch film as lighting and locations change, it would take me forever to finish that roll. However, I am also not running low on film, as I have a few big rolls of cinema film that I downspool and process myself (removing the remjet layer after development) so its super cheap.
Nice video, you pretty much nailed how P17 is. I would not agree on not premium feel, I like that is is so light be me being tech guy I suppose I have bigger affinity toward modern materials like plastic.
Camera itself is cute, turned me back into kid who was happily snapping around with Zenit 3M and Fomapan film without any regard to frames or cost :D I think it is great snapshot camera and for those who like film, want a good and reliable camera but don't want to carry around SLR or experience a hassle of getting working used camera or CLA a bought and not so perfect - this is new toy to get.
For more serious photography I still take Pentax K2 or Zenit 12XP but just to walk around with roll of cheap film this is perfect for me.
Great review. If this was 2/3 of the size and 2/3 of the price I would get it right away. At that price I want more manual control.
Great review! I LOVE shooting vertical. I think I’d be the perfect customer. Good insight on the blue viewfinder…I don’t think I’d like that. Interesting about using less grainy film to compensate for half frame. Thank you! ❤
Great review. Your critique of the camera’s build materials (magnesium alloy and plastic) being disappointing seems somewhat shortsighted especially considering your XA-3 is 100% plastic. Many other cameras in that era were also.
Everybody is complaining about the price, but is buying new iphones every two years for 1000€ without any complaints. 😂
Well fwiw iphones have significantly better cameras.
@@13squierbut use filter to look like film camera ironikly
I love your video!
In 1981 I bought an XA for about $120 , I think , was still using it 20years later
I am still waiting for mine to be delivered. Waiting to see how I will use it
Servus. Nice little analog camera!
Even though this camera has a good amount of plastic theres a possibility that its still durable. I have a Pentax kp, which does have alot of plastic and ive had no issues with durability or reliability. Pentax did a great job with the styling. I also like the metal top and bottom, good for durability and paint cant wear off the corners and look ugly as would be the case in an all plastic body. He's right about us used to cheap used pricing on film gear.
I think the Pentax 17 overrexpose bit too much, it's better to decrease compensation exposure for bright landscape shots.
Great vid. Silently hoping myself that the pentax 17 does well with the influencers so I can sell my spotmatic for a 1000% profit.
I decided to put new light Seals in my Pentax Spotamatic SP11 I've owned for a couple of years it needed new light Seals and i perfer a 35mm camera with interchangeable lenses as I have number of Takumar M42 lenses for the camera so it made since for me to fix what I had for few dollars instead of buying a half frame camera
Bro your voice 💥
Great video, cheers from florida
I would love to see a re-released K1000. But I guarantee it would not be $600 :) The inflation calculations are skewed against other rising manufacturing costs. But still, it's a hard sell. I want to support Pentax's venture, but I'll hold off. They did get the film bug back on me and pushed me towards a PEN-F. And I'm curious what that Rollei 35 AF will actually launch at.
may be the price should campare with the KYOCERA SAMURAI is suitable,or the olympus pen-ee series.because they all belong to the half frame camera.And i like the series of KYOCERA SAMURAI ,because its was vary cool and you can use Horizontal composition easily, besides, KYOCERA SAMURAI has auto focus and Accurate metering.
It's only pity that Pentax didn't make some kind of mechanism which would allow to switch from half frame to full frame.
I wished they made more half frames like the konica recorder which shoots horizontally by default
A more accurate size comparison to the XA3 would be to include the XA flash.
How do you know when to use exposure compensation? I also have the XA3 and the Pentax 17 both with exposure compensation. I had thought that the +1.5 exposure on the XA3 was for when a subject had bright light behind it in order to increase the exposure of the subject, but I also feel like I’d just be guessing most of the time
Hi, thank you for this very helpful review. I’m a newbie and I’ve got this Pentax 17. In order to protect the lens, I’ve bought an UV filter (“Urth”), but I would like to ask wether it could affect the quality of the photos. Thank you.
This camera is truly created for the Gen Z/Gen Alpha photographer who wishes they were a part of the film generation. What I mean by this is that it has one too many dials where dials are not needed. In the heydays of 1980-1990 point and shoot film cameras, most modes were selected via a couple of buttons or toggles. The Pentax 17's form appeals to the digital native photographer and uses modern ergonomics (hand-grip). Again, probably done to differentiate it from a smartphone's flat/rectangular design. I am pleasantly surprised by the image quality, however, it is equally viable to spend $150 on an overhauled Olympus half-frame camera and the remaining $350 on 25 rolls of good film, which, I presume is above the average number of rolls a new film photographer who purchases the Pentax 17 will shoot before giving up film photography altogether. The camera's price tag really brings out the cynic in me.
Teo, great review and insight. Thank you for pointing out the price in comparison to film cameras of the past. I think a lot of people forgot how much things cost in the past. I applaud Pentax for making a film camera and hopefully they continue to make new ones. Thanks for sharing! Awesome photos!