Full Review

I have always had a simple point and shoot camera and have taken some good pictures but many times I wished I had a better camera that was capable of more things. So I wanted a good 35 mm film camera to learn with. I prefer film to digital in the same way I prefer actual books to reading something on my computer. So I was lucky enough to come by a Pentax Super ME from 1980 that was in excellent condition (from a family member).

The camera still had all of the original parts (50 mm lens, strap, lens cap, etc.) including the instruction manual which was very easy to use. I also purchased some (cheap) books about film photography that were helpful with the basics.

This camera has been wonderful - and since I am still learning a lot - I admit I cannot describe why with a lot of technical jargon. What I can say is that I have learned some basic fundamentals that have really helped me to develop. Other photographers (who tend to use digital SLRs) say they give me a lot of credit for using this type of camera in manual mode. I have had a lot of compliments on my photographs from this camera and have been encouraged to enter some contests and even to go back to college for photography.

I bought a second Pentax Super ME on E-Bay for about $65.00 and now I keep two camera bodies filled with two different types of film (for example - 400 speed b&w in one and the other w/ 100 speed color). I can also exchange lenses for further flexibility. (ProMaster lenses work well with this camera). I also use a Pentax Flash that came with my first camera. I also enjoy using the camera with a tripod.

The camera is simple and straightforward. No mysteries to discover. It was one of the best made cameras in it's time and it continues to take fantastic pictures. The quality is excellent. I am extremely pleased with this camera. I had thought about going digital but ultimately I have decided to stick with film for as long as it is around.

Basic Information.

Type: 35mm SLR camera with aperature-preferred automatic exposure; "Pushbutton" electronic manual; auto flash sync (with AF 200S and AF 160 units).

Shutter: Seiko MFC-E2 vertical-run metal focal plane shutter; automatic shutter speeds electronically controlled between 4 sec. and 1/2000 sec (stepless variation); electronic manual shutter speeds at 14 viewfinder settings, plus mechanical settings of "125X" and "B" (operates without batteries at mechanical settings); selection via exposure mode dial; shuter button lock also provided.

Self Timer: Delays shutter release 4 - 10 seconds.

Exposure Metering: Open aperture, center weighted through-the-lens metering by GPD cells. Exposure range from EV 1 - EV 9 (ASA 100 with 50mm f/1.4 lens). Film speed range: ASA 12 - 1600; 3 color LED shutter-speed readout in viewfinder. (20-35 sec. display given partially pressing shutter button which acts as metering switch) /-2EV exposure compensation via dial (1/4X, 1/2X, 2X, 4x).

Film Loading: Magic-needle quick/sure loading.

Body Size: 5.13 X 3.24 X 1.93 IN

Body Weight: 15.7 OZ