In today’s world of digital photography, it’s easy to get caught up in the latest and greatest technology. But there’s something special about film photography that sets it apart from its digital counterparts. The Pentax 17 is a new film camera from a major brand that embodies this unique charm without slipping into kitsch. It’s a camera that will make you smile, and make you want to take pictures just for the sake of taking pictures.
A Camera That Feels Special
The first thing that struck me about the Pentax 17 was its uniqueness. As a new $500 film camera from a major brand, it’s not something you see every day. But beyond that, it’s more than just a novelty – it’s a camera that genuinely feels special to use. The moment I picked it up, I knew I was in for a treat.
Shooting with the Pentax 17
I spent a considerable amount of time testing the Pentax 17 on a road trip and at a local punk club show. I shot several rolls of color (Kodak UltraMax 400, Portra 800) and black-and-white (Kodak Tri-X 400) film through it. But what really caught my attention was when I tried cross-processing some very expired color film – including C41 negatives from decades-old E6 slides (positive film). The results were nothing short of amazing.
What Makes the Pentax 17 So Special?
There are several reasons why the Pentax 17 stands out as a unique and special camera. First, its half-frame format allows you to capture up to 48 or 72 exposures per roll – instead of just 24 or 36 like most full-frame cameras. This format gives you a sense of freedom and low-stakes shooting that’s hard to find in digital photography.
Second, the Pentax 17 has a semi-automated exposure mode and preset zone ranges that make it incredibly easy to use. This is perfect for beginners who want to learn the basics of film photography without getting overwhelmed by manual controls.
Third, the camera itself is beautifully designed with a compact size and solid build quality. It’s a camera that feels like an extension of your body – not something you need to hold onto tightly just in case it breaks.
The Fun of Shooting Half-Frame
One of the most interesting aspects of shooting half-frame with the Pentax 17 is the sense of freedom it gives you. Since each roll can capture up to 48 or 72 exposures, you don’t have to worry about taking only a few photos and hoping for the best. This format allows you to experiment and try new things without feeling like you’re breaking the bank.
I found that this approach really brought out my creative side – I started taking more risks and trying different angles and compositions. And when the film came back from the lab, I was amazed at how many great shots I got.
Embracing the Pentax 17’s Approach
The Pentax 17 has a unique charm that makes it perfect for everyday life documentation. Its casual yet not-too-casual approach to film photography brings a touch of magic to even the mundane. And when you get your film back, you’ll be delighted by the lovely, timeless-looking shots.
Of course, there are other cameras out there with more features and better build quality – like the Pentax K1000 and 50mm f/2 lens or the Leica M rangefinder. But these cameras come with a price tag that’s hard to justify for casual photography enthusiasts.
Conclusion
The Pentax 17 is a camera that will make you smile, and make you want to take pictures just for the sake of taking pictures. Its unique charm, compact size, and semi-automated exposure mode make it perfect for beginners and experienced photographers alike. Whether you’re looking to experiment with film photography or simply want a fun companion to document your everyday life – the Pentax 17 is an excellent choice.
Specs
- Format: Half-frame
- Exposures per roll: Up to 48 or 72
- Semi-automated exposure mode and preset zone ranges
- Compact size and solid build quality
Price
$500
