EasyManua.ls Logo

Pentax ZX-7 User Manual

Pentax ZX-7
92 pages
To Next Page IconTo Next Page
To Next Page IconTo Next Page
Page #1 background imageLoading...
Page #1 background image

Table of Contents

Question and Answer IconNeed help?

Do you have a question about the Pentax ZX-7 and is the answer not in the manual?

Pentax ZX-7 Specifications

General IconGeneral
Lens MountPentax KAF2
Film AdvanceAutomatic
Flash Sync1/100 sec
Shutter Speed30 - 1/2000 sec
ISO Range25 - 5000
Exposure ModesProgram, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority
Metering ModesCenter-weighted
Flash ModesAuto, Red-eye Reduction
ViewfinderPentaprism
Type35mm SLR

Summary

Camera Safety Precautions

General Warning Guidelines

Key safety warnings regarding electric shock, strap safety, and eye protection.

General Cautionary Advice

Key safety cautions regarding battery handling and flash usage.

Camera Handling Precautions

Precautions During Photography

Guidance on protecting the camera from water, shock, and extreme temperatures during use.

Storage Precautions

Advice on storing the camera in suitable environmental conditions to prevent damage.

Proper Care and Maintenance

Instructions for cleaning and maintaining the camera's components and preventing electrical issues.

Operational Environment Precautions

Operating Temperature and Water Exposure

Information on the camera's operating temperature range and precautions regarding water damage.

Camera Inspection and Usage Limitations

Recommendations for camera inspection and limitations on usage for industrial or commercial applications.

Battery Usage Precautions

Battery Safety Guidelines

Essential safety guidelines for using and handling camera batteries to prevent hazards.

Camera Working Parts Identification

External Camera Controls Overview

Identification and location of the camera's external switches, buttons, and dials for operation.

Internal Components and Indicators

Identification of internal parts and indicators like LCD panel, mirror, and lens contacts.

Camera Working Parts II

Back Panel and Internal Mechanisms

Identification of parts located on the camera's back panel and internal mechanisms.

Lens Mount and Battery Compartment

Identification of the lens mount, battery compartment, and related components.

LCD Panel Indications Explained

LCD Display Symbols and Icons

Explanation of various symbols and icons displayed on the camera's LCD panel.

LCD Performance in Temperature Extremes

Information on how temperature affects the LCD panel's performance and visibility.

Viewfinder Indications Explained

Viewfinder Display Elements

Explanation of symbols and indicators visible within the camera's viewfinder.

Multi (6)-Segment Metering System

Overview of the camera's six-segment TTL metering system for exposure accuracy.

Panorama Format Viewfinder Adaptation

Description of how the viewfinder adapts to panorama format picture taking.

Lens Functionality Compatibility

Autofocus and Manual Focus Lens Compatibility

Compatibility of different lens types for autofocus and manual focus operations.

Exposure and Flash Modes Lens Compatibility

Compatibility of lenses with various exposure and flash modes, including program modes.

Metering and Focus Indicator Lens Compatibility

Compatibility related to metering systems and the in-focus indicator with different lenses.

Attaching the Camera Strap

Strap Attachment and Accessory Storage

Instructions for attaching the camera strap and utilizing its integrated pocket for accessories.

Loading the Batteries

Battery Installation Procedure

Step-by-step guide on how to open the battery compartment and insert batteries correctly.

Camera Settings Reset After Battery Replacement

Information on which camera settings are reset when batteries are replaced.

Low Battery Warning Indicator

Battery Life Expectations

Estimated battery life under various shooting conditions and temperatures.

Low Battery Warning Symbol Functionality

Explanation of the low battery warning symbol and its implications for camera operation.

Attaching and Detaching Lenses

Lens Mounting Procedure

Step-by-step instructions for mounting a lens onto the camera body.

Lens Removal Procedure

Instructions on how to safely detach a lens from the camera body.

Lens and Camera Contact Care

Guidance on cleaning lens and camera contacts to ensure proper electrical connection.

Powering the Camera On and Off

Main Switch Operation Guide

How to turn the camera's power on and off using the main switch.

Operating the Shutter Release Button

Shutter Button Positions and Functions

Explanation of the two positions of the shutter release button and their functions.

Preventing Camera Shake During Shooting

Tips for gently depressing the shutter button to avoid camera shake and blurred images.

Using the Data Back (Optional)

Data Imprinting Functionality

How the date and time are recorded on photographs using the data back.

Data Back Operation Modes

Explanation of how to switch between different data back display and imprint modes.

Data Imprinting Readability Issues

Factors affecting the readability of imprinted data, such as subject color and contrast.

Film Loading Procedures

Automatic DX-Coded Film Speed Setting

How the camera automatically sets film speed for DX-coded films.

Manual Film Loading Guide

Step-by-step guide for loading a film cartridge into the camera.

Shutter Curtain and DX Pin Precautions

Precautions regarding shutter curtains and care for DX information pins during film loading.

Film Loading Process Details

Film Cartridge Placement

How to place the film cartridge correctly in the film chamber.

Back Cover Closure and Film Advancement

Steps for closing the back cover and how the film automatically advances to the first frame.

Troubleshooting Film Loading Errors

Guidance on what to do if the film is not loaded properly, indicated by LCD blinking.

Finalizing Film Loading

Pulling Out Film Leader

Instructions on how to pull the film leader to reach the take-up spool.

Aligning Film Leader and Engaging Perforations

How to align the film leader with the end mark and engage perforations on the sprocket.

Shutter Curtain Handling Precautions

Important warnings about not touching shutter curtains during film loading.

Confirming Successful Film Loading

Checking Film Loading Accuracy

Visual checks to ensure the film is loaded flat and not with slack.

Confirming Film Advancement on LCD

How to confirm the film has advanced correctly by checking the LCD panel indicators.

Unloading Film Procedures

Automatic Film Rewinding Process

Description of the automatic film rewinding process at the end of the roll.

Post-Rewind LCD Indication

What the LCD panel shows after the film has been fully rewound.

Film Removal Light Protection

Guidelines for protecting the film from light when removing it from the camera.

Mid-Roll Film Unloading

Mid-Roll Rewind Procedure

Instructions on how to unload film before all frames have been exposed.

Mid-Roll Rewind Button Operation

How to use the mid-roll rewind button and precautions for its operation.

BASIC OPERATION (SHOOTING)

Viewfinder Diopter Adjustment

How to adjust the viewfinder diopter for clear viewing of the autofocus frame.

Using the Auto Picture Mode

Auto Picture Mode Functionality

How the camera automatically selects picture modes based on scene requirements.

Setting the Auto Picture Mode

Steps to set the mode dial and lens aperture ring for Auto Picture Mode.

Auto Picture Mode Limitations

Information on lens compatibility and functions not available in Auto Picture Mode.

Using the Smart Flash Mode

Auto-Popup Flash Functionality

How the built-in flash automatically pops up in low light or backlit situations.

Smart Flash Mode Operation

How to activate the auto-popup flash and when the flash unit discharges.

Flash Disable Mode Operation

Disabling Automatic Flash Pop-up

How to set the camera to prevent the built-in flash from popping up automatically.

Flash Disable Mode Functionality

Explanation of the flash disable mode and its relation to Auto Picture Mode.

Using Zoom Lenses

Zoom Ring Operation

How to use the zoom ring to change focal length and adjust image magnification.

Zoom Lens Feature Limitations

Information on zoom lens features that do not operate with this camera.

Drive Modes and Autofocus Setup

Setting Single-Frame Drive Mode

How to set the camera to take one picture each time the shutter button is pressed.

Selecting the Autofocus Mode

How to set the focus mode switch to AF for automatic focusing.

Holding the Camera Properly

Proper Camera Grip Techniques

Instructions on how to hold the camera correctly for stable shooting.

Minimizing Camera Shake

Tips and recommendations for minimizing camera shake during photography.

Taking a Picture: Focusing and Exposure

Focusing on the Subject with AF

How to focus on the subject using the AF frame and shutter release button.

Shutter Speed and Aperture Display

What information is displayed in the viewfinder and LCD when the shutter is halfway pressed.

Focus Confirmation and Audio Signals

How to confirm focus using the indicator light and audible beep signal.

Autofocus Limitations Explained

Reasons why the camera may not obtain proper focus, such as subject distance or difficulty.

Advanced Shooting Techniques

Gentle Shutter Release for Sharp Images

Instructions on gently depressing the shutter button to take the picture.

Built-in Flash Operation and Retraction

How the built-in flash pops up automatically when recommended and how to retract it.

Predictive Autofocus Mode for Moving Subjects

Explanation of the predictive autofocus mode for tracking moving subjects.

Selecting Various Flash Modes

Flash Mode Button Functionality

How to cycle through different flash modes using the flash mode button.

Understanding Flash Mode Indicators

Explanation of the symbols for Auto-popup, Red-eye reduction, and Non auto-popup modes.

Flash Mode Operational Limitations

Conditions under which auto-popup and automatic flash functions do not work.

AF Illuminator and Red-eye Reduction

AF Illuminator Functionality

How the AF illuminator assists autofocus in low light conditions.

Red-eye Reduction Flash Function

How the camera reduces red-eye phenomenon using preflashes.

Understanding the Red-eye Phenomenon

Explanation of the causes of red-eye in photographs and methods to reduce it.

Activating the Built-in Flash Manually

Manual Flash Activation and Discharge

How to manually pop up and discharge the built-in flash.

Flash Charging and Auto Discharge Behavior

Information on flash charging status and automatic discharge behavior.

Built-in Flash Usage Warnings

Warnings about using lens hoods, battery warming, and attaching external flashes.

Flash Effective Range Table

Effective Flash Range by Aperture

Table showing flash effective range based on lens aperture and ISO.

Factors Affecting Flash Effective Range

Notes on how lens aperture and minimum subject distance affect flash effective range.

Flash Recommended Information

Flash Recommendation Indicator Function

How the LCD panel indicates flash recommendation for low light conditions.

Inappropriate Lens Warning System

Warning indicators for using incompatible lenses with the built-in flash.

III. ADVANCED OPERATIONS

Selecting a Drive Mode

Overview of the six available drive modes for controlling picture capture sequence.

Types of Drive Modes Explained

Descriptions of Single-Frame, Consecutive-Frame, Self-timer, and Remote control modes.

Drive Mode Operations

Consecutive-Frame Mode Operation

How to use the consecutive-frame mode for continuous shooting.

Self-Timer Mode Setup

How to set the self-timer mode for delayed shutter release.

Self-Timer Operation Details

Focusing and Triggering Self-Timer

How to focus and trigger the self-timer, including audible signals.

Cancelling Self-Timer Operation

How to cancel the self-timer operation after it has been activated.

Viewfinder Cap for Self-Timer Accuracy

Using the viewfinder cap to prevent light entry during self-timer operation.

Remote Control Shooting (Optional)

3-Second Delay Release Mode

How to use the remote control for a 3-second delayed shutter release.

Remote Control Battery Life

Information on the battery life of the remote control unit.

Instant Release Mode with Remote Control

Instant Release Mode Setup

How to set the drive button for instant release via remote control.

Remote Control Operation Distance

Information on the operating distance of the wireless remote control.

Multiple Exposure Mode Operation

Multiple Exposure Procedure

Step-by-step guide for taking multiple exposures on a single frame.

Data Imprinting in Multiple Exposure Mode

Note that data will not be imprinted when using multiple exposure mode.

Taking Panorama Format Pictures

Switching to Panorama Format Mode

How to switch between standard and panorama format using the panorama lever.

Composing Panorama Shots

Guidance on composing scenes within the panorama frame and leaving a safety margin.

Panorama Picture Development Notes

Lab Instructions for Panorama Prints

How to instruct the processing lab regarding panorama format prints.

Panorama Development Costs and Options

Information on the time-consuming and expensive nature of panorama development.

Using the Picture Mode

Picture Mode Overview

Introduction to the camera's Picture Mode and its 5 selectable scene modes.

Setting the Picture Mode

How to set the lens aperture ring and mode dial for desired picture modes.

Green Operation Mode

Green Operation Mode Usage

How to use the Green Operation Mode for simple, automatic picture taking.

Green Operation Mode Indicators

What indicators are displayed in the viewfinder and LCD when using Green Operation Mode.

Portrait Program Mode

Portrait Program Mode Suitability

When to use the Portrait Program Mode for portrait photography.

Portrait Mode Lens Effects

How telephoto and wide-angle lenses affect portraits in this mode.

Landscape Program Mode

Landscape Program Mode Suitability

When to use the Landscape Program Mode for scenic snapshots.

Landscape Mode Indicators

Indicators displayed in the viewfinder and LCD for Landscape Program Mode.

Close-up Program Mode

Close-up Program Mode Usage

How to use Close-up Program Mode for macro photography and depth of field.

Close-up Mode Indicators

Indicators displayed in the viewfinder and LCD for Close-up Program Mode.

Action Program Mode

Action Program Mode Suitability

When to use Action Program Mode for capturing moving subjects.

Action Mode Indicators

Indicators displayed in the viewfinder and LCD for Action Program Mode.

Night-scene Program Mode

Night-scene Program Mode Usage

How to use Night-scene Program Mode for low-light portraits with background scenes.

Night-scene Mode Settings

Shutter speed changes and tripod recommendation for Night-scene Mode.

Selecting an Exposure Mode

Exposure Mode Selection Table

Table showing how mode dial and lens aperture affect exposure modes.

Using the Aperture-Priority AE Mode

Aperture-Priority AE Mode Purpose

When to use Aperture-Priority AE for depth of field and blurred backgrounds.

Setting Aperture-Priority AE Mode

Steps to set the lens aperture ring and mode dial for Aperture-Priority AE.

Aperture-Priority AE Indicators and Warnings

Viewfinder and LCD indicators, plus exposure warnings for Aperture-Priority AE.

Using the Shutter-Priority AE Mode

Shutter-Priority AE Mode Purpose

When to use Shutter-Priority AE to freeze action or capture motion blur.

Setting Shutter-Priority AE Mode

Steps to set the lens aperture ring and mode dial for Shutter-Priority AE.

Shutter-Priority AE Indicators and Exposure Warnings

Shutter-Priority AE Display and Controls

Viewfinder and LCD display for shutter speed and aperture, and how to change settings.

Shutter-Priority AE Exposure Warnings

Exposure warnings for subjects that are too bright or too dark in Shutter-Priority AE.

Using the Metered Manual Mode

Metered Manual Mode Purpose

When to use Metered Manual Mode for creative exposure control.

Setting Metered Manual Mode

Steps to set the lens aperture ring, mode dial, and change shutter speed/aperture.

Metered Manual Mode Indicators and Exposure Warnings

Correct Exposure Indication in Metered Manual

How the bar graph indicates correct, over, or underexposure in Metered Manual Mode.

Metered Manual Mode Warnings

Exposure warnings and limitations for Metered Manual Mode.

Bulb Exposure Mode Operation

Bulb Exposure Mode Purpose

When to use Bulb Exposure Mode for long exposures like night scenes.

Setting Bulb Exposure Mode

How to set the mode dial and use a tripod for Bulb Exposure Mode.

Exposure Compensation Explained

Purpose of Exposure Compensation

How exposure compensation allows deliberate over/underexposure for difficult lighting.

Setting Exposure Compensation Values

How to hold the button and move the select switch to set compensation values.

Exposure Compensation Limitations and Cancellation

When exposure compensation is not available and how to cancel it.

Turning Off the Audible PCV Signal

PCV Signal Control Method

How to turn the audible PCV signal on or off using the mode dial and select switch.

PCV Signal Usage Conditions

When the PCV signal can be changed and when the shutter cannot be released.

Memory Lock Function

Purpose of Memory Lock Function

How memory lock enables exposure level lock for high-contrast scenes.

Setting and Using Memory Lock

Steps to position the area, depress the button, and take the picture.

Memory Lock Operational Notes

Information on memory lock timer, PCV signal, and mode limitations.

Manual Focusing Procedures

Using Manual-Focus Lenses

How to use manual focus with non-autofocus lenses and the in-focus indicator.

Manual Focusing Process

Steps for setting focus mode, turning the ring, and confirming focus.

Focusing When Autofocus is Unsuitable

Manual Focus with Matte Field

How to focus manually using the matte field when autofocus is unsuitable.

Snap-in Focus Function Explained

How the shutter releases automatically when the subject comes into prefocused point.

Hard-to-Autofocus Subjects

Subjects Fooling the Autofocus System

List of subjects that may cause the autofocus system to malfunction.

Using Polarizing Filters with Autofocus

Advice on using polarizing filters with autofocus systems, recommending circular types.

Autofocus Limitations with Accessories

Accessory Compatibility for Focusing

Conditions with accessories where autofocus or in-focus indicator may not work.

Specific Lens Focus Notes

Notes on focusing with SMC Pentax F SOFT 85mm f/2.8 lens and potential autofocus issues.

Advanced Operation for Built-in Flash (RTF)

Flash Operation with Picture Modes

How the camera selects shutter speed and aperture for flash photography in Picture Modes.

Flash Operation with Shutter-Priority AE

How flash works with Shutter-Priority AE for fast-moving subjects.

Flash Operation with Aperture-Priority AE

How flash works with Aperture-Priority AE for ambient light adjustment.

Flash Operation with Metered Manual Mode

How to control background exposure manually while using flash.

Lens Compatibility with Built-in Flash

F and FA Lens Compatibility Table

Table detailing compatibility and vignetting issues for various F and FA lenses with the built-in flash.

Vignetting Notes for Specific Lenses

Specific conditions causing vignetting for certain lenses at particular focal lengths and distances.

Setting Film Speed (ISO) Manually

Manual ISO Setting Procedure

How to manually set the film speed (ISO) when using non-DX coded film.

ISO Setting Indicator and Limitations

How the ISO is displayed when set manually and when the shutter cannot be released.

Adjusting the Data Back Settings

Adjusting Year, Month, and Day

Steps to adjust the year, month, and day settings for the data back.

Digit Adjustment Method

How to change digits using the SELECT and ADJUST buttons.

Adjusting Time Settings on Data Back

Hour, Minute, and Second Adjustment

Steps to adjust the hour, minute, and second for the data back.

Operational Precautions for Data Printing

Precautions for data printing regarding temperature, film speed, and shutter release.

Installing the Battery in the Data Back

Battery Replacement Timing

When to replace the data back battery due to weak indications.

Battery Installation Steps

Procedure for opening the cover, removing the old battery, and installing a new one.

Data Back Battery Note

Note on potential issues if data does not appear after battery replacement.

Using Pentax Dedicated Auto Flash Units

Using TTL Auto Flash Mode

How to use Pentax dedicated TTL auto flash units with the camera.

Flash Unit Charging and Ready Indicators

How to confirm the flash unit is fully charged and ready for use.

Using Built-in and External Flash Simultaneously

Information on using both built-in and external flashes, including accessory requirements.

Advanced Flash Synchronization Techniques

External Flash Red-eye Reduction

How red-eye reduction function works with external flashes.

Simultaneous Flash Sync Modes

How trailing-shutter-curtain flash works with built-in and external flashes.

Twin Flash Photography Setup

How to set up twin flash photography using AF330FTZ or AF500FTZ.

Contrast-Control-Sync Mode Details

Details on flash ratios and sync speed for contrast-control-sync mode.

Overview of Flash Functionality

Flash Functionality by Camera Type

Table comparing flash functions across different Pentax flash unit types (A-E).

Notes on Flash Function Compatibility

Notes on compatibility issues and restrictions for specific flash functions and modes.

Using Non-Pentax Flash Units

Advice on using non-Pentax flash units and potential risks.

Daylight-Sync Shooting Technique

Purpose of Daylight-Sync Shooting

How to use flash to fill shadows in daylight portraits.

Daylight-Sync Shooting Procedure

Steps for performing daylight-sync shooting, including flash charging confirmation.

Slow-Speed-Sync Shooting Technique

Purpose of Slow-Speed-Sync

Balancing foreground flash exposure with background slow-shutter speed.

Slow-Speed-Sync Setup with Night-scene Mode

How to set up slow-speed-sync using Night-scene Program Mode.

Slow-Speed-Sync Setup with Metered Manual Mode

How to set up slow-speed-sync using Metered Manual Mode.

Slow-Speed-Sync Shooting Notes

Notes on using slow-speed-sync with Shutter-Priority AE and tripod recommendations.

Optional Camera Accessories

Dedicated Camera Accessories List

List of dedicated accessories available for the camera.

Specific Accessory Descriptions

Descriptions of accessories like Cable Switch F, Magnifier FB, and various flash units.

Notes on Accessory Usage

Important notes regarding the use of accessories like Auto Bellows A and lens adapters.

Camera Case Information

Soft Case Components

Description of the soft case consisting of front and back covers.

Camera Case Size Selection Guide

Guide to selecting the correct front case size based on the applicable lens.

Understanding Depth of Field

Depth of Field Definition

Explanation of depth of field and factors affecting it, such as aperture and focal length.

Focusing Range Variations

How the in-focus range varies with aperture and zoom lenses.

IV OTHERS: Troubleshooting Guide

Troubleshooting Common Camera Issues

Guide to identifying and remedying common camera issues.

Troubleshooting Shutter Release Problems

Troubleshooting reasons why the shutter may not release and their solutions.

Troubleshooting LCD Panel and Indicator Issues

Troubleshooting why indicators do not appear on the LCD panel.

Troubleshooting Autofocus and Flash Issues

Troubleshooting Memory Lock and Exposure Compensation

Troubleshooting why memory lock and exposure compensation functions do not operate.

Troubleshooting Built-in Flash Malfunctions

Troubleshooting common problems with the built-in flash not charging or activating.

Troubleshooting Power Zoom System Issues

Troubleshooting for the power zoom system not functioning.

Camera Specifications Overview

Camera Type, Format, and Film Specifications

Specifications for camera type, format, and usable film.

Exposure Modes and Shutter Specifications

Details on available exposure modes and the electronically controlled shutter.

Lens Mount and Autofocus System Specifications

Specifications for the lens mount, compatible lenses, and autofocus system.

Viewfinder and LCD Panel Specifications

Specifications for the viewfinder and external LCD panel indications.

Detailed Camera Specifications

Self-timer, Film Winding, and Meter Specifications

Specifications for the self-timer, film loading, and exposure meter.

Exposure Compensation, Flash, and Power Source Specifications

Specifications for exposure compensation, flash, and power source.

Dimension, Weight, and Accessories Specifications

Specifications for dimensions, weight, and supplied accessories.

Program Line Diagrams

Green Operation Mode Program Line

Diagram showing exposure settings for Green Operation Mode with a specific lens.

Portrait Program Mode Program Line

Diagram showing exposure settings for Portrait Program Mode with a specific lens.

Landscape Program Mode Program Line

Diagram showing exposure settings for Landscape Program Mode with a specific lens.

Additional Program Line Diagrams

Close-up Program Mode Program Line

Diagram showing exposure settings for Close-up Program Mode with a specific lens.

Action Program Mode Program Line

Diagram showing exposure settings for Action Program Mode with a specific lens.

Warranty Policy

Twelve-Month Warranty Period

Details on the 12-month warranty period for Pentax cameras.

Warranty Coverage and Limitations

What is covered under warranty and limitations regarding damage or misuse.

Warranty Service Procedure

Procedure for obtaining warranty service, including returning equipment for repairs.

Warranty Service and Shipping Information

Shipping Charges and Customs Fees

Information on who bears shipping charges and customs fees for service.

Proof of Purchase and Authorized Repair Shops

Importance of keeping receipts and using authorized repair shops for service.

Local Warranty Policy Variations

How local warranty policies may supersede the general policy.

FCC Compliance Statement

FCC Rules Compliance Statement

Statement of compliance with FCC Rules, including conditions for operation.

Interference Prevention Measures

Measures to correct harmful interference to radio or television reception.

Company Contact Information

Asahi Optical Co., Ltd. and International Offices

Contact details for Asahi Optical Co., Ltd. and its international branches.

Related product manuals