Q
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Q
Features & Controls

The Q is pentax's first EVIL (Electronic Viewfinder Interchangeable Lens) camera, and features their new bayonet Q-mount lens system. This system uses an all metal mount to attach compatible lenses, and features a lens lock to keep the lens securely in place; the lens lock release in shown at the bottom left of the mount.
Unlike other EVIL cameras that use Micro Four Thirds or APS-C sized image sensors, Pentax has opted to use a smaller 1/2.3" 12.4-megapixel CMOS sensor in the Q. This is the same size sensor found on the majority of consumer point-h-shoots, which is approx. 689% smaller in area than the Micro Four Thirds sensors used on Olympus and Panasonic EVIL camera, and approx. 1198% smaller compared to a typical APS-C sensor. However, while the Pentax Q does use a smaller sensor, this camera is also the smallest mirrorless interchangeable lens camera we've seen to date (12/2011).
Pentax has also interoperated their sensor-shift Shake Reduction tecnology in the Q, meaning that you have a proven image stabilization system in place no matter what lens is attached. The Q also boasts their DRII sensor cleaning system, which uses ultrasonis vibrations to dislodge any dust or particles attached to the sensor; which is a Very important feature for a mirroless camera.

The Q comes in kit form with their "01 Standard Prime" lens, which gives you a 35mm equivalent field of view of 47mm. This lens is quite small and compact, like its mate, and offers a maximum aperture of f/1.9; making it a good option for low-light situations. The lens is comprised of 8 elements in 5 groups with 2 aspherical elements, and offers filter threads for attaching 40.5mm filters. The lens also boasts 5 aperture blades, Pentax lens coating to minimize flare, and a neutral density filter for your wide open aperture photography.
Lenses
Pentax has four other lens offerings for the Q-mount system (as of 12/2011), the 02 Standard Zoom, 03 Fish-Eye, 04 Toy Lens Wide, and the 05 Toy Lens Telephoto.




When you look at the top of the Q, you will find a wealth of controls for a camera of this size. On the left you can see the flash pop-up switch and the play button. In the middle is the Q's standard hotshot for using optional external flash units like Pentax's AF200FG, AF360GZ or AF540GZ. To the right you can see the built-in speaker, Power On/Off button, the shutter release, the mode dial, and finally the control wheel. The control wheel/dial controls various settings depending on the exposure mode in use, along with the index and magnify options in playback.
Built-in Flash Unit

Hot Shoe for External Units

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