The Pentax P3N, also marketed as the P30N in the United States, is a versatile, multi-mode 35mm film SLR camera. Designed for entry-level photographers, this camera offers essential features and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for those looking to dive into the world of film photography. Let’s explore what makes the Pentax P3N stand out.
At its core, the P3N is a multi-mode camera supporting Program (P), Aperture Priority (A), and Manual (M) shooting modes. Its shutter speeds range from 1/1000 to 1 second, with additional options for bulb exposure and a dedicated 1/100X flash sync. The viewfinder provides a 0.82x magnification with 92% frame coverage, offering a clear but slightly cropped preview of the scene. A fixed split-prism focusing aid, surrounded by a microprism collar in a matte field, ensures precise focus for manual operation. With a flash sync speed of 1/100, this camera works seamlessly with compatible Pentax flashes for creative lighting options.
The P3N improved upon its predecessor, the Pentax P3, with the addition of Aperture Priority mode and rubber grip surfaces for better handling. Meanwhile, its U.S.-marketed sibling, the P30N, shares identical features but differs only in name. Pentax later introduced the P30T, which enhanced ergonomics with a grippier surface and swapped the horizontal split-prism for a diagonal one. These variations made the camera lineup more versatile for photographers with different preferences.
The P3N is compatible with a wide range of Pentax lenses. While SMC-A, SMC-F, and SMC-FA lenses enable Program mode, older SMC-M lenses allow for manual and aperture-priority shooting, making the camera highly adaptable to user needs. Budget-conscious photographers can pair the P3N with SMC-A lenses, as they lack autofocus but retain essential functionality, providing excellent image quality without breaking the bank.
In terms of history, the P3N targeted entry-level users, offering simplicity and functionality. The camera’s DX-coded film system sets ISO automatically based on the film’s coding, defaulting to 100 ISO for non-DX films. While lacking exposure compensation and boasting relatively modest viewfinder specs, the P3N still provided a robust platform for creative photography. Produced by Asahi Optical Co. from 1988 to 1990, the P3N reflects Pentax’s commitment to quality and innovation in accessible SLR cameras.
Let’s now take a tour of the P3N’s design. The top of the camera houses the strap lugs, film rewind and back release mechanism, power and shutter time (S-T) switch, hot shoe, shutter dial, shutter button, film advance lever, and frame count window. The front includes the self-timer lamp, depth-of-field preview lever, lens release button, mount index, exposure memory lock button, and cable release socket. The back of the camera features the viewfinder eyepiece, a film type window, and the film door. At the bottom, you’ll find the battery chamber, tripod socket, serial number, Asahi Optical Co. branding, and the film rewind release. Inside, the camera boasts the film cassette chamber, DX code readers, film guide rails, shutter, film tension sprocket, film take-up spool, and other essentials for film loading and operation.
To maximize your P3N experience, consider the following tips: SMC-A lenses are a cost-effective choice, providing the same image quality as autofocus lenses without unnecessary features. If you don’t require Program mode, SMC-M or SMC-K lenses are excellent alternatives, supporting manual and aperture-priority shooting modes. These lenses keep costs low while maintaining compatibility and functionality.
The Pentax P3N combines affordability, versatility, and reliability, making it a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced photographers alike. Let’s now delve into how to operate and make the most of this camera in our second video.
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Video Index:
0:00 - Intro
0:08 - Pentax P3N Tutorial Walkthrough Video Manual
6:43 - Pentax P3N Features -- Top
8:19 - Pentax P3N Features -- Front
10:03 - Pentax P3N Features -- Back
10:31 - Pentax P3N Features -- Bottom
10:41 - Pentax P3N Features -- Inside
12:52 - Tips for using the Pentax P3N
14:51 - Things NOT to do with your Pentax P3N
Pentax P3N Change Batteries, Load Film, Modes, and Double Exposures
• Pentax P3N Change Batteries, Load Film, Mo...
Pentax P3N (P30N) 35mm Film SLR Tutorial, Walkthrough, and Review
• Pentax P3N (P30N) 35mm Film SLR Tutorial, ...
References:
http://kmp.pentaxians.eu/bodies/film_...
https://www.butkus.org/chinon/pentax/...
https://www.pentaxforums.com/camerare...
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of...
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