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Pentax K-m, SMC Pentax-A 35-70mm 1:4

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SOOC (Straight-Out-Of-Camera) Images, An Incidental Find

Digital Moments: Visuals of non-intentional SOOC (Straight-Out-of-Camera) shots with a Pentax K-m and the SMC Pentax-A 35-70mm 1:4.

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It is generally accepted that digital images need a degree of post-processing to get them right for viewing or publication. Many enthusiasts, however, theorize SOOC (Straight-Out-Of-Camera) images as the philosophy. As the name implies, SOOC deems that images are complete once exported out of the camera, without any post-processing or image tweaks. The philosophy emphasizes authenticity and spontaneity of images, without editing, embraces creativity, and saves on the economics of time, and cost.

While setting up the camera with lens aperture opening, shutter speed, and ISO speed for fully manual shoots are done in-camera, SOOC photography should not involve any post-processing outside of the camera. This removes the need for additional ancillary hardware and software for post-processing needs.

Well said and done. My presentation here, however, is not on the execution and practice of the theory, but a look at the incidental find of a set of images, close enough to be associated with the SOOC genre, shot in Program Mode on a Pentax K-m (K200 in the US). The casual shots of the limestone outcrop, the backdrop to a family gathering, were with an SMC Pentax-A 35-70mm 1:4 lens.

While not shot with SOOC in mind, what was surprising was how well the images developed. Though a couple could be better with tweaks on the Tone Curve and Brightness & Contrast, the others are right with their tone and contrast to be viewed without further editing. My only bad here was cropping the images to a 4:5 and 5:4 image ratio for this presentation.

To pursue further interest in the genre, preparing the camera for SOOC shoots includes understanding the exposure triangle (aperture, shutter speed, ISO), using the camera's histogram to check exposure levels, especially in challenging lighting conditions, setting the correct white balance to ensure colors appear true to life, and exploring different color profiles available on your camera to enhance the vibrancy and mood of your image.

As cropping in post-processing is not an option for SOOC shooters, framing is prime, and you need to clear the frame of any distracting elements that could detract from your main subject as well. Familiarize yourself with the fully manual shooting mode to allow for quick adaptability to changes in the ambiance. Shoot in JPEG, as using RAW images may not align with the strict SOOC philosophy of minimal editing. 'Chimping,' and re-shoots are, of course, permissible.

The twin-ring SMC Pentax-A Zoom 35-70mm 1:4, the only 35-70mm lens from Pentax with a fixed aperture, has an aperture ring that can be operated manually and an 'A' setting that allows the lens aperture opening to be controlled by Pentax cameras with KA (or its derivatives) lens mounts. The lens is acknowledged to be both sharp and capable of exciting renders.

Pentax K-m, SMC Pentax-A 35-70mm 1:4

The Pentax K-m (K2000 in the U.S.) is a lightweight, compact entry-level digital SLR camera announced by Pentax in 2008. It is fitted with a 10.2 MP CCD ASP-C sensor and the KAF2 lens mount system and is sold with similarly mounted DA-L-series lenses. Just like the K200D it replaces, the K-m is not weather sealed, comes with a 5-point AF system, and uses the same sensor as fitted to its predecessor.

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Konica II B, Fujifilm Superia X-tra 400 (Expired)

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Vintage Camera Marketplace by ImagingPixel

Malaysia's Online Marketplace for Vintage Film and Digital Cameras, Lenses,
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Photo of the Day

Konica II B, Fujifilm Superia X-tra 400 (Expired)

<< Click on image for enlarged Lightbox display >>

Vintage Camera Marketplace by ImagingPixel

Malaysia's Online Marketplace for Vintage Film and Digital Cameras, Lenses,
and Camera Accessories. Follow ImagingPixel on Facebook, Pinterest, and X.

Photo of the Day

Konica II B, Fujifilm Superia X-tra 400 (Expired)

<< Click on image for enlarged Lightbox display >>

Vintage Camera Marketplace by ImagingPixel

Malaysia's Online Marketplace for Vintage Film and Digital Cameras, Lenses,
and Camera Accessories. Follow ImagingPixel on Facebook, Pinterest, and X.