The Pentax K3 Mark III Camera

Developed as a camera that defines the Pentax principles, the Pentax K3 Mark III Body features a host of functions and outstanding imaging performance to optimize the fun and excitement of the entire photo-shooting process – for photographers who are particular about the key values of SLR cameras, and who cherish photography as a lifetime passion. Pentax developed a top-grade, easy-to-view optical viewfinder which fully immerses the photographer in shooting. It also renewed key devices, including the image sensor, imaging engine and accelerator unit. This was done to provide the highest possible image quality, and attain the super-high top sensitivity of ISO 1600000. The compact, sturdy camera body assures excellent operability and portability – benefits characteristic of the APS-C format.

All-surface magnesium-alloy body

The Pentax K3 Mark III’s top, bottom, front and rear panels are all made of magnesium alloy. This lightweight, high-rigidity material not only protects the cameras internal mechanisms from shock and vibration, but also creates the look of a solid, high-grade camera body.

Highly durable shutter unit

Highly durable shutter unit Installed in the camera body, the extra-durable shutter unit withstands a total of 300,000 shutter release actions at a speed of 12 images per second, contributing to an improvement in continuous shooting speed and an increase in the number of recordable images.

Dustproof, weather-resistant construction

Both the camera body and the optional D-BG8 Battery Grip are designed to be dustproof and weather-resistant to prevent the intrusion of dust and water. When an AW- or WR-series lens is mounted, they form a highly airtight imaging system that assures dependable performance even in adverse weather conditions.

Excellent cold-resistant performance down to -10C

Anticipating use in low-temperature locations, PENTAX has subjected the camera to exacting environmental tests at temperatures as low as -10C, while assessing the performance of its mechanisms and electronical circuits and measuring the precision of optical components.

Optical viewfinder with approx. 100% field of view, and approx. 1.05X magnification

The Pentax K3 Mark III features a high-performance viewfinder with a high-refraction glass pentaprism to provide approximately 1.05-times magnification (with an FA 50mm F1.4 lens set at infinity). Despite the compact, lightweight APS-C-format SLR body, it delivers a truthful, wide-view image equal to that of a full-frame SLR, and helps you to become more fully immersed in the photo-shooting process. This viewfinder also provides an almost 10-percent increase in brightness, thanks to the improved reflectance of the pentaprism, while also assuring a nearly 100-percent field of view. By incorporating a distortion-compensating optical element and optimizing the lens coatings, it provides natural, true-to-life image rendition with high-magnification observations.

Pleasant Shutter Action

The Pentax K3 Mark III features a leaf switch, a mechanism previously used in the PENTAX 645Z and PENTAX K-1. Compared to the tactile switch more commonly used in compact SLR cameras, the leaf switch provides a lighter, smoother shutter action and minimizes the camera shake caused by the shutter-release action. It also helps you by providing effortless hold-down of the shutter-release button during continuous shooting. The time lag between the shutter release and an image capture has also been reduced, compared to the Pentax K3 Mark III, while the cameras mirror- and shutter-driving mechanisms have also been upgraded. By reducing unwanted mechanical actions such as mirror bounce, it provides crisp, pleasant shutter-release action. You can feel the smooth action and speedy response every time you press the shutter-release button.