Skip to main content

2026-06-10 - Pentax P3 Camera


 

The Pentax P3 Camera is an entry-level, 35mm manual-focus SLR film camera introduced by Pentax in 1985. Outside of North America it was marketed as the Pentax P30. Designed as an affordable, lightweight alternative to older mechanical cameras, it features automated Program AE and manual shooting modes, making it an excellent entry-level choice for film photography.

Key Features:

 

  • Lens Mount: Pentax K-mount (fully compatible with KA-mount SMC-A lenses for Program mode).
  • Exposure Modes: Programmed Auto (with Pentax-A lenses), Aperture-Priority, and Manual.
  • Shutter: Electronically controlled vertical-metal-blade Seiko shutter.
  • Shutter Speeds: 1 to 1/1000 sec, plus Bulb (B) and 1/100 sec flash sync (X).
  • ISO/Film Speed: Automatically set via DX-coding from ISO 25 to 1600 (no manual override).
  • Metering: Center-weighted TTL light meter using a Gallium Photo Diode (GPD),  internal LED meter visible inside the bright viewfinder.
  • Power Source: Requires two 1.5V LR44 or SR44 button cell batteries (the camera is completely inoperable without them).
  • Extra Features: Built-in electronic self-timer, Depth-of-Field (DOF) preview lever, and Auto-Exposure lock.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

2023-03-31 - Argus C3 Colormatic Camera + Flash Gun

  The Argus C3 Colormatic camera   was produced between 1954 and 1958. It is a distinctive newer version of the iconic Argus C3 "The Brick" 35mm rangefinder camera originally introduced in 1939. When paired with its original flash gun, it forms a classic mid-century photography kit.  Specifications: Argus C3 Colormatic Camera The Colormatic version introduced colour-coded markings on the dials to help users quickly set the camera for "average" subjects in bright sunlight.  Lens : Typically equipped with a Cintar f /3.5 / 50mm coated lens, known for being surprisingly sharp despite its simple three-element triplet design. Rangefinder : Features a coupled, dual-window rangefinder system where you focus through one window and compose through another. Shutter : A manual leaf-type shutter with speeds ranging from 1/10 to 1/300 sec plus Bulb (B). Build : Constructed from heavy bakelite and metal, The Argus Flash Gun The Argus C...
Post a Comment
Read more

2026-03-10 - Welcome Message

    Welcome to our Rehomed Photo Gear blog. The Edmonton Photographic Historical Society will assist anyone with rehoming any unwanted photo gear. Just contact us at info@edmphotosociety.ca , and we will take it from there. The following pages profile some of the items that we have helped to rehome over the years.
Post a Comment
Read more

2026-03-11 – Canon EOS Rebel XS camera w/ 28-80mm zoom lens

  The Canon EOS Rebel XS (introduced in the early 1990s as the EOS 500 or Kiss) is a lightweight, 35mm autofocus SLR film camera tailored for beginners. Commonly bundled with a 28-80mm or 35-80mm zoom lens, it features TTL phase-detection AF, a built-in flash, and multiple exposure modes, often powered by two CR123A batteries.  Key Features and Details: Camera Type: 35mm Film SLR with Canon EF Mount. Lens: Often bundled with EF 28-80mm or 35-80mm lenses, providing standard zoom versatility. Exposure Modes: Features Programmed Image Control (Full Auto), Manual, and shutter/aperture priority modes. Shutter Speed: 30 seconds to 1/2000th of a second, with 1/90th flash sync. Performance: Known for being lightweight and user-friendly, suitable for entry-level film photography. Condition: Many available units are sold as "Renewed" or used, often tested for basic functionality.  This camera is frequently recommended for t...
Post a Comment
Read more