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The new standard of the 35mm full-frame K series

Rich colors and subtle shades, and a beautiful bokeh and a well-defined sense of depth. When the photographer's inspiration is truly reflected in all these elements, photographs will become more than mere records - they will evolve into truly impressive works of art.

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II has been created as the flagship model that will fulfill this goal. It features a new, advanced image-processing system to deliver the beautiful image quality which all photographers demand. It produces images that are rich in color and gradation, high in resolution, and superb in bokeh rendition.

The Pixel Shift Resolution System II - the PENTAX-original super-solution technology - now accommodates handheld photography. The AF system featuring a new algorithm assures high-precision focusing even with moving subjects.

While inheriting the PENTAX K-1's development concept, the PENTAX K-1 Mark II has advanced technologies to near perfection. When your creativity is in complete harmony with the camera, your photography will truly come alive.

State-of-the-art imaging processing system

Greatly improved image quality, even in high-sensitivity photography

To reproduce lively colors and rich gradations close to memory colors in all sensitivity ranges, the PENTAX K-1 Mark II newly incorporates an original accelerator unit, which efficiently processes image signals output by the image sensor before sending them to the imaging engine. This process upgrades both image resolution and color reproduction in a high-sensitivity range, while drastically reducing noise compared to the PENTAX K-1. It also helps bring the camera's top sensitivity up to ISO 819200 (at standard output sensitivity) for high-grade, super-high-sensitivity photography. Top sensitivity of ISO 819200 enhances image quality, and expands the creative boundaries of high-resolution digital SLR photography State-of-the-art imaging processing system Greatly improved image quality, even in high-sensitivity photography

Top sensitivity of ISO 819200 enhances image quality, and expands the creative boundaries of high-resolution digital SLR photography

State-of-the-art imaging processing system Greatly improved image quality, even in high-sensitivity photography

PRIME IV

High-performance imaging engine to assure high-resolution image reproduction

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II's PRIME IV imaging engine is the culmination of PENTAX's high-speed, high-quality image processing technologies. In addition to highly efficient noise processing, it features Fine Sharpness and Extra Sharpness functions to process the subject's outlines more naturally and more delicately, and the PENTAX Real-time Scene Analysis System, which has adopted a breakthrough deep learning technology. It also effectively compensates for the distortion, vignetting and chromatic aberration caused by specific lens properties, while efficiently correcting the fringe effect.*
*Available in combination with D FA-, DA-, DA L- and FA-series lenses. Some of these lenses may not be compatible with these functions.

35mm full-frame image sensor

A large, high-performance image sensor to capture all lighting data

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II's 35mm full-frame image sensor features a large imaging area and a wide pixel pitch to deliver lively, true-to-life images with rich gradation. It also assures superb noise reduction performance to capture the subject truthfully with fine details and subtle shades. Its shallow depth of field allows you to control the sense of depth and bokeh (defocus) effect at will.

Some thoughts about the sensor size we share on our blog ...

AA-filter-free design to optimise resolving power

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II features an AA (anti-aliasing)-filter-free design to optimize image resolving power. This design produces true-to-life images by faithfully depicting the fine details of the subject. It retains excellent resolution, even when the image is cropped during shooting, or the captured image is trimmed during processing. It allows you to capture the decisive moment in a sharp, clear image.

AA filter simulator

State-of-the-art mechanism to optically minimise moiré and false colour

The PENTAX-original AA (anti-aliasing) filter simulator* effectively minimizes moiré and false color by using the camera's SR mechanism to apply microscopic vibrations to the image sensor during exposure. It provides the option of choosing the AA-filter effect for well-balanced images or the AA-filter-free mode for greater resolving power.
* This function works most effectively with a shutter speed of 1/1000 second or slower.
* This function may not be used in some shooting modes, or may not be combined with certain functions.

The advanced Pixel Shift Resolution System II for super-high-resolution images

A PENTAX technology to produce high-quality images beyond the power of total pixels

PENTAX's Pixel Shift Resolution System II* is the super-solution technology which realizes image resolving power and color reproduction far better than that of the conventional Bayer system. By taking advantage of the camera's SR mechanism, it captures four images of the same scene by slightly shifting the image sensor for each image, obtaining all RGB color data and luminance data from each pixel, then synthesizing them into a single, super-high-resolution composite image. It not only improves image resolving power, but also prevents the generation of false color, reduces high-sensitivity noise, and greatly improves image quality.
* When using this system, the user is advised to stabilize the camera firmly on a tripod during shooting, and set the drive mode to self-timer or remote control, or use the mirror lock-up function.
** The desired effect may not be obtained when the subject is on the move or camera shake occurs.

RAW-format filing compatibility

The images captured by the Pixel Shift Resolution System can be saved as RAW-format files. You can develop these files within the camera body while adjusting various parameters or turning the Pixel Shift Resolution effect on and off to create the desired image.

Innovative Dynamic Pixel Shift Resolution mode

Greater flexibility in handheld shooting

In addition to conventional shooting modes, the Pixel Shift Resolution System II features a new Dynamic Pixel Shift Resolution mode*, an innovative technology that takes advantage of slight fluctuations of the subject's position during handheld shooting. The camera closely analyzes four captured images and detects camera shake during handheld shooting before synthesizing them into a super-high-resolution composite image.** By combining this mode with the camera's SR mechanism, you can use the advanced Pixel Shift Resolution System II more flexibility, even in difficult shooting conditions such as shooting at poorly lit locations or without using a tripod.
* When using a tripod, the user is advised not to activate the Dynamic Pixel Shift Resolution mode.
** Captured images may not be properly synthesized with certain subjects or under certain conditions. By capturing images in the RAW or RAW+ format, the user can process the images unsuitable for the synthesizing process as normal RAW-format images within the camera body.

Picture made with Pentax K-1 MarkII and DFA 28-105 mm lens

HD PENTAX-D FA 28-105mmF3.5-5.6ED DC WR Aperture: F11 ; Shutter speed: 1/120 sec. ; Exposure compensation: +0.7EV ; ISO sensitivity: 100 ; White balance: Daylight ; Custom image: Vibrant ; Pixel Shift Resolution: On (Motion Correction function: On

The K-1 Mark II overcomes challenging field conditions, such as poor weather, darkness and freezing temperatures

SR II in-body shake reduction mechanism

Five-axis, five-shutter-step camera shake compensation

The PENTAX-original sensor-shift-type shake reduction mechanism has been upgraded to provide optimum compensation for all lenses used in handheld shooting. The new-generation SR II (Shake Reduction II) features a five-axis mechanism to compensate for camera shake caused by horizontal and vertical shift* (often generated in macro photography) and camera shake caused by roll, which is difficult to handle by lens-installed shake reduction mechanisms, in addition to more common camera shake caused by pitch and yaw.

The SR II unit is controlled with great precision as soon as the camera's power is turned on, and provides a wide compensation range - as much as five shutter steps** - to expand the limits of handheld shooting.
* During Live View shooting, this mechanism does not compensate for camera shake caused by horizontally and vertical shift.
**Measured in conformity to CIPA standards, using an HD PENTAX-D FA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6ED DC WR lens at a focal length of 105mm.

Compatible with panning shots

When taking a panning shot, this mechanism efficiently controls the SR unit to detect only the direction of the camera’s movement, while compensating for all other affecting vectors. Because of this, the K-1 Mark II captures beautiful, high-resolution images both in normal shooting and panning photography, without requiring any switching operation.

High-precision AE/AF operation at -3EV illumination

Extra-accurate auto-exposure and autofocus control, even in the dark

An illumination level of -3EV makes it difficult to see a subject with the naked eye, and almost impossible to make accurate focus with manual focusing. Even under such low-illumination conditions, the K-1 Mark II assures high-precision auto-exposure and autofocus operations.*
Thanks to its upgraded algorithm, its autofocus response time for poorly illuminated subjects is greatly reduced. Coupled with its super-high-resolution imaging power, the K-1 Mark II delivers exceptional shooting performance in dark locations.
* Light metering measured at ISO 100 and with a 50mm F1.4 lens; focusing measured at ISO 100, at room temperature and with 25 middle sensors.

Outdoor-oriented monitor with red-lit monitor display function

Easy, pushbutton control of monitor brightness

The camera's outdoor-oriented monitor, which provides easy setting of the brightness level, has been upgraded. In addition to positive settings to assure the correct brightness level in bright locations, it now provides negative settings to improve visibility in dark locations.
It also features a red-lit monitor display function to facilitate monitor viewing when your eyes have become accustomed to a dark location during astronomical or nighttime photography.
By assigning this function to the Fx1 button, you can instantly switch the monitor display between the normal and red-lit modes.

Operation Assist Light

Supporting camera operations in the dark

Four Operation Assist Lights are strategically positioned around the camera body: at the upper side of the lens mount, behind the LCD monitor, at the memory card slot, and at the cable switch terminal. With a push of the illumination button, you can turn them on* to facilitate lens and memory card changes, control button operations, and attachment and removal of a cable switch, for more efficient, comfortable shooting of nighttime outdoor scenes and poorly lit indoor subjects.
*The LED lights can be switched on and off individually. They are all set to the off mode at default setting.

Pentax K-1 Mark II Illumination System

Dependable dustproof, weather-resistant construction

A completely environment-resistant imaging system, with a weather-resistant lens

A combination of the K-1 Mark II's 87 sealing parts and the optional D-BG6 Battery Grip's watertight body prevents the intrusion of water and dust into their interior. When an AW- or WR-series lens is mounted,* the K-1 Mark II and its lens forms a remarkable digital imaging system totally resistant to demanding environmental factors.
* AW stands for All Weather (dustproof and weather-resistant construction), while WR stands for Weather Resistant (simplified weather-resistant construction).

-10°C cold-resistant construction

Unmatched reliability proven under vigorous testing conditions

Anticipating use in cold locations, PENTAX has subjected the K-1 Mark II to exacting environmental tests at temperatures as low as -10°C, and gathered a vast array of data on operational precision, response and stability of mechanisms and circuits, as well as fluctuations in battery voltage.* As the result, the K-1 Mark II assures solid, trouble-free operation even at freezing temperatures.
* Battery performance declines as the temperature goes down. When shooting in cold environments, the user is advised to carry spare batteries and keep them warm by storing them in an inside pocket.

DR II (Dust Removal II) mechanism

Effective removal of foreign particles from the image sensor

Using its piezoelectric element, this innovative mechanism applies ultrasonic vibrations to the optical glass panel placed in front of the image sensor. This effectively removes all dust particles clinging to the image sensor surface, and prevents annoying dust spots from appearing on a captured image.

UV/IR-cut filter Absorption-type IR-cut glass Piezoelectric element CMOS image sensor

High-rigidity, extra-durable body

A shell structure shielding a metallic chassis with a magnesium alloy casing

The K-1 Mark II's exterior casing is made of highly rigid, lightweight magnesium alloy, which provides excellent shock-resistance and electromagnetic shielding performance. By coupling it with a high-rigidity metallic chassis housing the core components, the K-1 Mark II forms a compound structure to assure outstanding durability and exceptional reliability.

Pentax K-1 mark II durability

Extra-durable shutter unit

Withstanding 300,000 shutter releases for professional use

After a series of exacting performance tests, the K-1 Mark II's shutter unit has proven its exceptional durability by withstanding a total of 300,000 shutter releases. It assures outstanding operational precision and exceptional durability required for exacting professional work.

Flexible Tilt-Type LCD monitor

Pentax K-1 M2 Tilt screen

Innovative mechanism to tilt the monitor to any desired angle along the optical axis

Aiming at aligning the photographer's line of sight precisely with the camera's optical axis while providing a flexible angle adjustment, PENTAX has designed an ideal LCD monitor for the K-1 series by creating an innovative mechanism that supports the monitor with four stays.
This monitor has reached two difficult goals that conventional monitors have failed to attain: no deviation from the optical axis; and unrestricted tilt in all directions, horizontally or vertically. You can even tilt it up to a nearly 90-degree angle for low-angle and waist-level photography.

Pentax K-1 Mark II Display

Air Gapless LCD monitor

The K-1 Mark II's Air Gapless LCD monitor uses a special resin layer applied between the protective panel and the LCD screen to effectively cut down internal reflections. Coupled with the Outdoor View Setting function, it assures excellent visibility even under bright sunshine.

Live View shooting

An array of handy tools to assist creative photography

In the Live View mode, the PENTAX K-1 Mark II provides a wide range of picture-taking tools. The Flexible Tilt-type LCD monitor lets you clearly view the on-screen image from different angles to optimize shooting comfort.
In addition to the conventional focal-plane shutter mode, it also offers the option of the electronic shutter mode, effective in macro and scenic photography in minimizing the vibrations caused by shutter release of the camera's mechanical shutter unit.

Main Live View shooting functions

A selection of AF modes: Face Detection, Auto Tracking, Multi-segment Auto, Select and Spot Focus Assist to emphasize the outline of the in-focus area.
A choice of grid display from five patterns and two colors (white and black)
Zoom display with a maximum magnification of 16 times for easy confirmation of focus condition.

Auto Horizon Correction and Composition Adjustment

Pentax K-1 mark II Digital leve - Jet display

Convenient tools to compose well-balanced images

By taking advantage of its SR mechanism, the K-1 Mark II helps you compose well-balanced, flawless images. The Auto Horizon Correction function* rotates the image sensor to compensate for the camera's horizontal tilt, making it useful in handheld shooting.
The Composition Adjustment function** allows you to make minute adjustment of image composition with a shift of the image sensor. It comes in handy for Live View shooting using a tripod.
* Maximum compensation angle: approx. ±2° (approx. ±1° with SR mechanism activated)
** Maximum compensation range: ±1.5mm (±1mm along the axis of rotation) or ±1°

Digital level

Accurate detection of camera tilt without removing the eye from the subject

The K-1’s Digital Level displays bar scales at the right side and bottom of the viewfinder to indicate the horizontal and vertical tilt of the camera, allowing you to confirm the horizontal and vertical alignment of the subject without taking the eye off the subject. You can also display the Digital Level on the LCD monitor during viewfinder shooting, Live View shooting and movie recording

Smart Function

Single-action function control

The K-1 MARK II's Smart Function is a brand-new camera operation system harmonizing an array of features with ease of operation. This functional camera operation system lets you swiftly choose and set the desired function using just two dials positioned on the camera's upper panel, without needing to refer to the menu screen on the LCD monitor.

Functions controllable by Smart Function:

Function Dial	Setting Dial
•	Void
+/-	Exposure compensation shift
ISO	ISO sensitivity shift
CH/CL	Switching between Continuous Shooting (with a choice of three drive modes) and Single Frame Shooting modes
BKT	Bracketing value shift in bracket shooting
HDR	Change of HDR shooting mode
Grid	Viewfinder shooting: ON/OFF Grid Live View shooting: change of grid pattern
SR	Still-image shooting: ON/OFF of SR mechanism Movie recording: ON/OFF of Movie SR mechanism
Crop	Change of Crop setting
Wi-Fi	ON/OFF

Built-in GPS module and Electronic Compass

Automatic recording of shooting position data

The K-1 Mark II features a built-in GPS module and Electronic Compass, which together display the camera's direction on the LCD monitor. These features allow you to attach Exif data to recorded images, including the location, direction and time of shooting (using Universal Time Coordinated). This comes in particularly handy in situations where you must make meticulous preparations in advance for the direction of shooting, such as the shooting of sunrise scenes and celestial bodies.

Latitude Longitude Altitude Universal Time Co ordinated GPS signal status Camera's direction of shooting (Azimuth)

GPS Log to track the photographer's movement

The K-1 Mark II's GPS Log function automatically keeps track of the photographer's movement at fixed intervals. By loading a log file on your computer, you can trace the route you have traveled using a mapping application such as Google Earth™.

pentax k-1 mark II astrophotography

Effortless tracking and photographing of celestial bodies without an equatorial

By making full use of its GPS module, Electronic Compass and SR mechanism, the K-1 Mark II simplifies the astronomical photography of celestial bodies, without the help for an equatorial.
Based on the latitude data obtained from GPS satellites and other affecting factors (the camera's direction and horizontal/vertical tilt) obtained by its various sensors, the K-1 Mark II calculates the movement of celestial bodies, then synchronizes the movement of its image sensor with that of celestial bodies with great precision. Since it captures stars without a streaking effect even during extended exposures, you can record faint stars, which are difficult to detect with the naked eye, as point images.
* The user is advised to use a tripod to stabilize the camera.
* The user is advised to read the operating manual thoroughly before shooting.
* ASTROTRACER cannot be used with some shooting modes, such as interval shooting and interval composite shooting.

Optical viewfinder with a nearly 100% field of view

Assuring a clear view of the field and ease of focus

The K-1 Mark II's optical viewfinder provides a nearly 100-percent field of view and a 0.7-times magnification to deliver a sharp, crisp view of the subject and a large, well-defined image field, both of which are the benefits of the 35mm full-frame SLR camera.

This viewfinder also provides a clear view of the image field free of aberrations, even at the edges. Its Natural-Bright-Matte III focusing screen* makes it easy to identify the in-focus point, even during manual-focus operation.
* The focusing screen is fixed on the camera body, and is not interchangeable.

Transparent LCD

Transparent viewfinder display

At-a-glance confirmation of the camera's operational status The K-1 Mark II's transparent LCD viewfinder display allows you to select desired data, such as a grid display, and monitor it in the viewfinder.
It comes in handy when correcting the camera's tilt using the digital level or rearranging the image composition using a grid pattern, without taking the eye off the subject.

Digital Level
The Digital level displays the K-1's horizontal and vertical tilt with two bar scales. Compared with the conventional type that utilizes an exposure bar scale, it not only makes it easier to identify the camera's tilt, but also allows you to check the tilt and exposure status simultaneously. As the result, it greatly improves the camera's operability during viewfinder shooting.

Selection of data on viewfinder display
Transparent data to be displayed in the viewfinder (grid pattern, Digital Level, AF frame and spot-metering frame) can be turned on and off independently to accommodate varying shooting conditions and preferred shooting styles.
* All viewfinder display data, except the cropping frame, is simulated to explain the function.

PENTAX D FA, K-mount interchangeable lenses designed for perfect imaging power on the Pentax K-1 Mark II

From ultra-wide angle to super telephoto, an entire selection of high-performance D FA-series lenses can be used on the K-1 Mark II. They deliver exceptional image quality, despite their compact, lightweight design.

Pentax Lens

Pentax lenses offer a high degree of compatibility. For example, many lenses from earlier series are compatible with the K-1 Mark II. Many of them work with the original features. For example, FA lenses can be used for the most part without restrictions.
Many photographers love the imaging properties of special classic lenses, and now use them on the Pentax K-1 Mark II.

Please find information about the compatbility of Pentax lenes with this link ...

Pentax User Sharing their pictures using the "Pentax Hashtag". Find out more about ist and watch for sample images made with nearly all Pentax lenses ...

Lens aberration-compensated

DA-series lenses usable in the 35mm full-frame frame

The DA series lenses can also be used on the Pentax K-1 Mark II. However, these are optimised for the smaller image circle of the APS-C format and vignetting may occur.

The following DA-series lenses cover the 35mm full-frame image area. When the Crop mode is set to FF (Full Frame), the K-1 Mark II's lens aberration compensation function is extended to cover certain aberrations, such as diffraction, in the 35mm full-frame image area.
* Please note that this function does not guarantee the quality of image outside the APS-C image area.

Cropping frame
Viewfinder display in the Crop mode (APS-C image area)

* This image displays all AF sensors for an explanatory purpose.

Crop

Automatic switching of an image area with attachment of a lens

When a DA★-, DA Limited- or DA-series lens is mounted on the K-1 Mark II, its Crop mode automatically switches an image area to the APS-C size covering the middle section of the image field, while displaying the cropping frame in the viewfinder.
It not only assures high-resolution images with approximately 15.36 effective megapixels, but also provides an efficient AF sensor coverage of the image area for more flexible image composition during autofocus operation.
When you select the FF (Full Frame) setting of the Crop mode, you can even capture a 35mm full-frame image with a DA-series lens.*
* With certain lenses and/or under certain photographic conditions, a captured image may suffer a drastic drop in brightness and/or resolution in the areas outside the APS-C image area. This setting does not provide compensation of various lens

Customization

Creating your personal K-1 Mark II by customizing camera operations to your preference

The K-1 Mark II provides a wide range of customization settings to optimize the ease and comfort of camera operations. These settings have been designed to expand the functions of the USER Mode and the Fx (function) buttons, improve accessibility to desired functions on the control panel, and prevent accidental operational errors.

pentax K-1 Mark II customazation

USER Mode
Five different combinations of the most frequently used functions can be assigned to this mode to handle specific subjects or creative intentions.

Control panel
This panel displays a list of the functions and their status on the LCD panel, while allowing you to change the contents and/or order of listed functions to suit your shooting style.

Lock Button
In order to prevent accidental setting changes, the K-1 Mark II provides a lock button to temporarily inactivate control buttons and dials. It offers you a choice of two lock functions:
Type 1 to prevent unintended exposure setting changes
Type 2 to prevent operational setting changes.

Customization buttons

Fx1 button
One function from seven options can be assigned (default: RAW)

Fx2 button
Another function from seven options can be assigned (default: Outdoor View Setting)

AF button
One of the functions governing AF operation can be assigned.

Preview lever
An optical or digital preview mode can be assigned.

E-dial
A set of exposure mode can be assigned.

Custom Functions
A total of 26 Custom Functions are available with the K-1 Mark II.

Monkey shot with pentax K-1 MarkII

HD PENTAX-D FA 150-450mm F4.5-5.6ED DC AW Aperture: F6.3; Shutter speed: 1/500sec; Exposure compensation: 0.0EV; Sensitivity: ISO 800; White balance: Daylight; Custom image: Bright

Remarkable Maneuverability, despite the 35mm full-frame design

comparison Pentax K-1 Mark II Pentax K-3 Mark III

PENTAX's development concept has been to design a compact body and optimize the ease of hadling in the field. The PENTAX Mark II faitfully inherits this concept. In addition to optimizing the positioning of the finder unit to keep the camera's height to a minimum,
PENTAX has also designed and original mechanical unit containing the shutter charge and mirror driving mechanisms. PENTAX's advanced high-density packaging tehnology has succeeded in creating a compact, maneuverable body for this new camera.

Floating Mirror Structure
In order to accommodate the 35mm full-frame image sensor and cover the light flux of the large viewfinder with a nearly 100-percent field of view, it was necessary to increase the size of the main mirror and mirror box. To minimize the size of the mirror box, PENTAX has developed a new mechanism that retracts the main mirror as it swings upwards.

Lens mount

Shutter window

Action of the main mirror

Action of the main mirror without the Floating Mirror Structure (the mirror bumps against the lens mount.)

The main mirror and its pivot retract at mirror-up position.

PENTAX Real-time Scene Analysis System

Optimizing the performance of AE and AF systems and the ease of image composition

pentax real time analyzis system

Supported by the approximately 86,000-pixel RGB light-metering sensor and the new PRIME IV imaging engine, the PENTAX Real-time Scene Analysis System analyzes such factors as brightness distribution in the image field, the subject’s primary color and its motion with great accuracy and efficiency.
In addition, by adopting a breakthrough artificial intelligence technology called deep learning to its image detection algorithm*, this system assesses each individual scene more accurately, while optimizing the accuracy and performance of the light-metering, exposure-control and autofocus systems, and selecting the most appropriate finishing touch for a given scene or composition.
* This RICOH-original technology is available during viewfinder shooting when the exposure mode is set to Scene Analyze Auto and the Custom Image mode is set to Auto Select.

Birds, taken by Pentax SLR camera

HD PENTAX-D FA150-450mmF4.5-5.6ED DC AW Aperture: F8.0 ; Shutter speed: 1/1250 sec. ; Exposure compensation: +0.0EV ; ISO sensitivity: 800 ; White balance: Daylight ; Custom image: Landscape ; AF mode: Continuous[FPS-priority]

SAFOX 12

Advanced AF system, with an expanded AF detection area

In order to optimize the ease of image composition over the large 35mm full-frame image field, the PENTAX K-1 Mark II features the latest SAFOX 12, equipped with a light source sensor, to expand the AF detection area.
To accommodate the longer optical path required for the expanded AF area, the camera features an innovative design in which incoming light is turned back within the AF module. Thanks to the optimization of the condenser lens, it also provides a total of 33 AF sensor points. This state-of-the-art module boasts both compact dimensions and exceptional image-forming performance.

Improved AF performance

Thanks to the incorporation of the latest AF algorithm, the PENTAX K-1 Mark II assures high-speed autofocus operation, from the activation of the AF system to the capture of the subject in focus. It captures the subject's motion with great precision, even when the colors of the subject and the background are nearly identical.
It also provides outstanding tracking performance with subjects which move laterally or vertically within the image field.
The camera's overall AF performance has been upgraded to a new level.

86,000 pixel RGB light-metering sensor

High-precision scene analysis based on the subject’s color, shape and motion

The K-1’s approximately 86,000-pixel RGB light-metering sensor not only delivers outstanding resolving power, but also detects colors with great precision. After accurately measuring the subject’s shape, primary color and motion, it feeds the obtained data to the PENTAX Real-time Scene Analysis System for extra-accurate scene analysis.

33-point AF system with 25 cross-shaped sensors

pentax k-1 mark II af-cross sensor

Assuring reliable, unfailing focus on the subject

The K-1’s sophisticated 33-point AF system has a high-density distribution of AF sensors to effectively monitor crucial areas of the image field, while providing 25 cross-shaped sensors to assure extra-accurate focus on the subject.

AF system with F2.8 luminance flux linear sensors

Three center sensors are designed to detect the luminance flux of an F2.8 lens for high-precision autofocusing. When using a very fast lens with a shallow depth of field, these sensors can greatly improve the focusing accuracy.

Zone Select

This mode lets you select a set of nine points forming a square, which can be shifted as desired by moving the center point. It detects a subject placed within this square, optimizes the focus, and tracks its movement — all automatically.

Select-area expansion

This mode lets you select one of 33 AF points to focus on the subject, and makes the K-1 automatically track the subject and refocus on it with the help of the neighboring points, even when it moves away from the initial point. You can select the desired expansion area from nine, 25 or 33 points.

* The number of AF points may decrease if the selected expansion area includes an area or areas outside the AF frame.

Auto tracking with PENTAX Real-time Scene Analysis System

Supported by the PENTAX Real-time Scene Analysis System, the K-1 Mark II's Auto Tracking function accurately detects the subject's motion based on various factors including color, then keeps pinpoint focus on the subject throughout the imaging process by automatically shifting the in-focus point.

pentax K-1 Mark II with main accessories

Scene Analyze AUTO

Much-improved accuracy,through the adoption of artificial intelligence technology

Supported by the PENTAX Real-time Scene Analysis System, the K-1 Mark II's Scene Analyze AUTO mode automatically optimizes exposure settings, and selects the most appropriate finishing touch for your subject. When using the optical viewfinder, it is also assisted by an algorithm that adopts the deep learning artificial intelligence technology, and makes an extensive analysis of a given scene based on the enormous volume of data accumulated from previous scenes.

Multi-mode AE system

A choice of distinctive auto-exposure modes

In addition to the conventional Program (P), Aperture-Priority (A) and Shutter-Priority (Tv) modes, the K-1 Mark II also provides the PENTAX-original Sensitivity-Priority (Sv) and Shutter-speed/Aperture-Priority (TAv) modes, both of which assure proper exposure on the subject by factoring the ISO sensitivity more prominently into exposure-control operation.
This multi-mode system assures more flexible control of exposure settings to express the subject's motion or the depth of field. It also provides a wide exposure compensation range of ±5EV (in still-image shooting) to expand a range of exposure control.

1/8000-second high-speed shutter

Exceptional operational accuracy and remarkable durability

The K-1 Mark II features an electronically controlled, vertical-run shutter to optimize the performance of the 35mm full-frame image sensor. With a top speed of 1/8000 second, it allows you to open up the aperture, even in bright locations, and take full advantage of the bokeh (defocus) effect created by the large image sensor. It also provides a flash synchroniation speed of 1/200 second. Symbolizing the K-1 Mark II's field camera concept, this unit is designed to be compact and lightweight, with a well-balanced combination of high-precision operation and outstanding durability.

High-speed drive mode

Flawless continuous shooting at approximately 4.4 images per second

The K-1 Mark II provides high-speed continuous shooting at a top speed of approximately 4.4 images per second (at CH setting). You can also switch instantly to an optional speed setting of three images per second (CM) or 0.7 images per second (CL) using the main menu or Smart Function. In the APS-C Crop mode, the drive speed can be boosted to as high as approximately 6.4 images per second to assure quick response to fast-moving subjects.

Large image recording capacity in continuous shooting

A maximum of 100 images captured at a high-quality 36-megapixel leve

Thanks to its large-capacity buffer memory, the K-1 Mark II lets you record a large number of images during continuous shooting:
approximately 70 JPEG images (or approximately 17 RAW images) at CH setting;
approximately 100 JPEG images (or approximately 20 RAW images) at CM setting, or
approximately 100 JPEG images (or approximately 100 RAW images) at CL setting.*
* These figures are an approximate number of images recordable in the 35mm full-frame format, in the JPEG L-size Best format, and at ISO 100

Hyper Program and Hyper Manual

Flexible control of the depth of field and the subject's motion

In the Program (P) mode, the K-1 Mark II features the PENTAX-developed Hyper Program mode, which allows you to set a desired shutter or aperture speed using the front and rear e-dials, while retaining a proper exposure level. This eliminates the need for turning the model dial when switching to the Tv or Av mode.

Pentax Hyper operating system

In the Hyper Manual (M) mode, one push of the green button instantly sets the same aperture and shutter-speed settings as those of the P mode for proper exposure.
Then, you can adjust the exposure to a desired level using the front and rear e-dials. With the AE-lock function, you can even shift aperture and/or shutter-speed settings while retaining the initial exposure level.

The combination of aperture and shutter speed can be changed without affecting the memorized exposure value. When you set the Smart Function to the ISO mode, you can enjoy more flexible control of the three primary exposure parameters — aperture, shutter speed and ISO sensitivity — in both the P and M modes, using a combination of the front and rear e-dials and the setting dial.

landscape photograph, taken by Pentax K-1 Mark II

HD PENTAX-D FA 24-70mm F2.8ED SDM WR Aperture : F8.0 ; Shutter speed : 1/500 sec ; Exposure compensation : -0.3EV : ISO 100 ; White balance : AWB ; Custom image : Landscape

Custom Image

Effortless expression of the ideal tone and shade for each subject

pentax custom image function

The K-1 Mark II's Custom Image function allows you to apply the preferred finishing touch to your image, based on your subject or creative intentions. With the addition of Auto Select, in which the camera automatically detects the type of scene or subject and selects the best finishing touch for you, and Flat, which produces a base image most tolerant to retouching, the K-1 Mark II provides a total of 13 Custom Image modes.* Each mode provides minute adjustment of parameters such as saturation, shade, key, contrast and sharpness.**
* The Custom Image mode is fixed to Auto Select when the camera's exposure mode is set to AUTO.
** Adjustable parameters may vary depending on the selected Custom Image mode.

Clarity control and Skin Tone correction

Compensation of the subject's texture, while retaining the image's overall sharpness

The Clarity control function is an image-processing technology effective in reproducing the glossy texture of metals and the clearness of the sky or splashing water. By adjusting the smoothness of a silky or shiny surface, it lets you control the quality of texture and the degree of clarity.

The Skin Tone correction function** restores a tender texture and a healthy tone of the subject's skin, while keeping the high-resolution rendition in its hair and clothing and in the background. It depicts your subject with smooth texture and healthy skin tones.
* Both of these functions are technologies developed by RICOH Co., Ltd.
** The Skin Tone correction function can be activated only when the Face Detection mode is selected.

pentax K-1 Mark III clarity control chart for improving picture quality

pentax K-1 Mark III skin tone chart for improving picture quality

pentax K-1 Mark III durable monitor

HDR

Faithful reproduction of highlights and shadows

The K-1 Mark II's HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode* delivers an image similar to that detected by the naked eye, by minimizing white-washed highlights and pitch-black shadows, even with extreme high-contrast scenes.
It also allows you to set a range of exposure shifts or use the Automatic Position Adjustment function.** Since this mode can save original image files in the RAW format, you can develop them by changing HDR settings or turning the HDR mode off.
By using a PC and the included software, you can also divide a single RAW-format file into three separate RAW-format images, and save them as independent files.
* This HDR function cannot be used in some shooting modes, and is not compatible with some other functions.
** The Automatic Position Adjustment function is fixed at the OFF mode when the Interval or Interval Movie shooting mode is selected.

Pentax K-1 Mark II HDR

Multiple exposure

Three ways to synthesize highly creative images

The K-1 Mark II lets you capture the desired number of images - from two to 2,000 - to synthesize a single composite image, with three synthesis modes: average, additive and comparative brightness. In Live View shooting, the K-1 Mark II displays a translucent image of the already captured image on its LCD monitor, allowing you to make precise alignment of the images.

CTE

For expressing the colors of the mind, rather than truthful color reproduction

pentax K-1 Mark II cte picture enhancement

In contrast to the standard auto white balance mode, which is designed to suppress the effect of a light source color on the image's color reproduction, the CTE (Color Temperature Enhancement) mode emphasizes the image's dominant color based on the color temperature. It is useful in dramatizing sunrise and sunset scenes or snow-covered landscapes under the cloudy sky. It is also effective in preventing color fading or the loss of colors such as dark greens and faint pinks.

Digital filters

A selection of filters to add creative visual effects

The PENTAX K-1 Mark II provides a choice of nine filters during shooting, and 21 filters during playback, to create unique visual effects on your images. You can apply as many as 20 filters to a single image to create a distinctive, personalized work of art.

[Filters available during shooting]

Pentax K-1 Mark II Filter overview

[Filters available during playback]

Base Parameter Adjustment	Extract Color	Replace Color	Toy Camera	Retro

High Contrast	Shading	Invert Color	Unicolor Bold	Bold Monochrome

Tone Expansion	Sketch	Water Color	Pastel	Posterization

Miniature	Soft	Starbust	Fish-Eye	Slim

Monochrome

Movie recording

Full HD movies with a beautiful bokeh effect

The K-1 records lively, true-to-life movies. Thanks to a shallow depth of field provided by its 35mm full-frame design, it effectively produces a beautiful bokeh effect. You can also record sound in stereo using a stereo microphone (commercial product, not included with the K-1), or monitor it during recording using headphones (commercial product, not included with the K-1).

4K-compatible Interval Movie Shooting

Documenting a constantly changing subject in high resolution

The K-1’s Interval Movie mode allows you to record still images of a slowly changing subject at a fixed interval, and link them into a single movie file. You can play back the 4K-resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels) movie file,* as if fast-forwarding the time on the screen. The K-1 also provides the Star Stream function, which lets you draw the magical traces of stars in a movie.
* When playing back the movie file on a device other than the K-1, the user is advised to use a PC operating environment supporting 4K-resolution movie playback.

Dual card slot

Large-volume image data filing on two SD memory cards

Pentax K-1 Mark II Dual Card Slot

The K-1’s card slot accepts two SD memory cards, with a choice of three data filing modes: “Serial” to store a large volume of data successively from one card to another; “Duplicate” (simultaneous filing) for simplified data backup, and “RAW/JPEG Division” to separate data files based on the recording format.
It is also possible to copy an image stored on one card to another.

In-body RAW data development

Application of the desired finishing touch without a computer

The K-1 provides in-body development of RAW-format files, with the developed files saved as separate JPEG or TIFF files. This offers greater flexibility in finishing a captured image more faithfully to your creative intention, without the help of a PC. Thanks to a wide range of adjustable parameters, you can add a desired finishing touch to your image regardless of a location, until you are truly satisfied with the result. The K-1 also features a newly designed user interface for more effortless, more flexible parameter control.

IMAGE Transmitter 2 compatibility

Tethered photography from a personal computer

By installed the optional IMAGE Transmitter 2 tethering software on your PC and connecting it with the K-1 via USB terminal, you can operate the K-1, automatically transfer and save recorded images, and check photographic data on your computer. This greatly improves the efficiency of studio shooting. Note: For proper use, the software must be upgraded to the latest version. Please access our official website for details.

Digital Camera Utility™ 5

Included in the product package, this software lets you develop RAW-format images, and also save, edit and organize images recorded in JPEG or TIFF format. Supported by the acclaimed SILKYPIX® image development engine, it provides high-speed RAW-data development and a range of image-editing tools to apply desired finishing touches to captured images.

Main window structure（Browser mode）

1) Navigation panel
2) Control panel (image data)
3) Control panel (shooting data)
4) Control panel (copyright information)

Main window structure（Laboratory mode）

1) Control panel (shooting data and history)
2) Control panel (image data and site map)
3) Control panel (Custom Image, white balance and exposure/tone)
4) Control panel (lens aberration compensation, noise reduction and rotation/shift)

Product Related Videos

On our Youtube Channel we share some insights from our PENTAX PHOTOGRAPHERS

Downloads

Product Related Information (PDF)

K-1 Mark II Product Information sheet English language

K-1 Mark II Product Information sheet German language

Operating Manuals in different languages

Firmware and Software updates

Please find actual firmware and software information (with included link to update file) on our overview of actual Firmware and Software Updates ...

Media / Journalism / Content

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