Pentax P30T by Ian Clements
On my return to film photography, I finally settled on a Pentax P30-T camera – which I have on a permanent loan from a friend.
I've coupled this with a Pentax-M 1:2 50mm purchased from Soper Photographic. After a reintroduction to film development from Russell at Soper Photographic and Ashley at Plymouth Darkroom, I was off and running.
For this review of the Pentax P30-T, I loaded a roll of Ilford HP5 film and headed out to Saltram for a stroll and a cuppa.
Coming from years as a digital shooter, I found the transition to film photography seamless. The camera has a shutter speed dial running from B-1000 as well as A (auto) and 100s for flash sync. Using this in conjunction with the aperture settings on the lens makes for a straight-forward set-up.
Turning the camera on via the slide switch (which is next to the film winder), I set the aperture setting I desired and left the shutter dial on A – effectively shooting in aperture priority mode.
The internal metering gives a clear indication of the shutter speed needed in the eye piece. When the shutter speed drops below 1/50 sec, I just open the aperture up until I achieve a suitable speed.
It would have been nice to have had some sunshine on the day, but had to contend with grey cloud sky.
I find this camera more satisfying to use than my digital set-up. It is very easy to use and, with the right lens, it can be used as a point and shoot if wished.
Would I recommend the Pentax P30 range of cameras? Well, yes I would. I love the camera and will be loath to hand it back when the time comes.
