Pentax K-50 16MP Digital SLR Camera with 3-Inch LCD - Body Only (Black)
Brand | Pentax |
Model Name | K-50 |
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution | 16 MP |
Photo Sensor Size | APS-C |
Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/6000 seconds |
Min Shutter Speed | 30 seconds |
Metering Description | Multi, Center-weighted, Spot |
Exposure Control Type | Hyper Program (P), Sensitivity Priority (Sv), Hyper Manual (M), Movie, Shutter Priority (Tv), Scene (SCN), Aperture Priority (Av), User (U1, U2), Shutter & Aperture Priority (TAv), Bulb (B), Auto Picture (AUTO) See more |
Form Factor | Compact SLR |
About this item
- 16 MP APS-C CMOS Sensor. A high performance 16 megapixel APS-C CMOS image sensor strikes the perfect balance between resolution and image quality.
- ISO Speeds up to 51200. High sensitivity shooting up to 51200 ISO range improves noise performance throughout, even in low lighting.
- Eye-Fi Card Compatibility with Eye-Fi wireless SD cards, the user can send images to a smartphone. Users can enable automatic transmission of images to a smartphone for sharing. Users can even select favorite images and resize before transmission.
- Innovative In-body Shake Reduction (SR) Mechanism. The PENTAX in-body, sensor-shift Shake and Dust Reduction technology ensures sharp, image stabilized, auto-leveled, and dust-free imaging with any mounted lens.
- Full 1080p h.264 HD video recording. Full 1080p HD video capture at 30 frames per second (60 FPS for 720p) features efficient h.264 compression, flexible exposure control, and HDR finishing options for stunning video quality.
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This Item Pentax K-50 16MP Digital SLR Camera with 3-Inch LCD - Body Only (Black) | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
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Price | $338.00$338.00 | $479.00$479.00 | -17% $149.99$149.99 List: $179.99 | $389.73$389.73 | $399.00$399.00 | -21% $379.00$379.00 List: $479.99 |
Delivery | Get it Mar 14 - 19 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 17 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 17 | — | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 17 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 17 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Picture quality | 4.1 | 4.5 | 4.0 | 4.1 | 4.0 | 4.3 |
Image stabilization | 3.9 | 4.6 | — | 4.3 | 4.6 | 4.1 |
Auto focus | 3.7 | 4.4 | — | 4.4 | 3.4 | 4.0 |
Easy to use | — | 4.2 | 4.1 | — | 3.8 | — |
Value for money | — | 3.7 | 4.0 | — | 3.8 | — |
Sold By | Premier Camera =Japan= Our Japanese staff will send you with care. | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | BluebirdSales | Amazon.com | Amazon.com |
display type | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD |
display size | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches |
lens type | Normal | Wide Angle | Wide Angle | Wide Angle | Telephoto | Telephoto |
zoom type | — | Optical Zoom | Optical Zoom | Optical Zoom | Digital Zoom, Optical Zoom | Optical Zoom |
shooting modes | — | Landscape; portrait mode; close-up; night portrait; food; sports mode | — | Automatic | Panorama | Automatic |
connectivity tech | USB | NFC, HDMI, USB | USB | Wi-Fi, NFC | Wi-Fi | wired, wireless |
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Product information
Auto Focus Technology | Phase Detection, Center, Face Detection, Tracking, Multi-area, Single, Continuous, Live View, Contrast Detection |
---|---|
Display Resolution Maximum | 921000 |
Photo Sensor Size | APS-C |
Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
Effective Still Resolution | 16 MP |
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution | 16 MP |
White balance settings | Auto |
Self Timer Duration | 10 seconds |
JPEG quality level | Fine |
Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift |
Flash Sync Speed | 1/180 sec |
Video Capture Format | AVC |
Video Capture Resolution | FHD 1080p |
Video Standard | MPEG 4 |
Batteries Required? | Yes |
---|---|
Number of Batteries | 1 AA batteries required. (included) |
Are Batteries Included | Yes |
Rechargeable Battery Included | No |
Battery Cell Composition | Lithium Ion |
Battery Description | D-LI109 lithium-ion rechargeable (4 x AA with optional adapter) |
Battery Weight | 77 Grams |
Battery Life | 410 Photos |
Target Gender | Unisex |
Connectivity Technology | USB |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 6 |
Wireless Communication Technology | Yes |
Flash Memory Type | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
Special Feature | Lightweight |
Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
Form Factor | Compact SLR |
Hardware Interface | USB |
Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
GPS | Optional |
Lens Type | Normal |
---|---|
Optical Zoom | 3.1 x |
Maximum Aperture | 3.5 Millimeters |
Autofocus Points | 11 |
Compatible Mountings | Pentax KAF3, Pentax KAF2 |
Focus Type | Manual Focus |
Expanded ISO Maximum | 51600 |
---|---|
Expanded ISO Minimum | 100 |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/6000 seconds |
Min Shutter Speed | 30 seconds |
Exposure Control Type | Hyper Program (P), Sensitivity Priority (Sv), Hyper Manual (M), Movie, Shutter Priority (Tv), Scene (SCN), Aperture Priority (Av), User (U1, U2), Shutter & Aperture Priority (TAv), Bulb (B), Auto Picture (AUTO) |
Metering Description | Multi, Center-weighted, Spot |
Viewfinder Magnification | 0.92x |
---|---|
Viewfinder Type | Optical |
Screen Size | 3 Inches |
Display Type | LCD |
Display Fixture Type | Fixed |
Model Name | K-50 |
---|---|
Brand | Pentax |
Model Number | 10883 |
Customer Reviews |
4.1 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #525,441 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #1,187 in DSLR Cameras |
ASIN | B00DBPKBQO |
Color | Black |
Age Range (Description) | Adult |
Processor Description | PRIME M |
Item Dimensions LxWxH | 5.12 x 2.8 x 3.82 inches |
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Product Description
Forget conformity, and get serious with the PENTAX K-50, a mid-level DSLR with fast, advanced functionality, all wrapped up in bold colors. Featuring specifications of a top level DSLR, enjoy a 16 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, fast continuous shooting at six frames per second, high sensitivity shooting up to ISO 51200, 100% field of view, innovative in-body shake reduction, and an advanced auto focus module with four optional focusing screens, not to mention the PENTAX-original weather-sealing. Even with features this generous, the K-50 is also available in 3 brilliant color combinations that are sure to match your personality and style. The K-50's approachable, easy ergonomics is perfect for families and everyday photography, complete with a wide selection of creative tools and filters for limitless personalized expressions. Get ready to stand out from the crowd and wear your colors on your camera. Also enjoy full 1018p HD video capture, and eye-fi card compatibility for fast and easy image sharing. It's your camera, and your colors, with the PENTAX K-50.
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the quality, ease of use, image quality and value of the digital camera. They mention that its a very fine piece of equipment, intuitive, produces great images and that its good value for the price. They also appreciate the weather resistance, and appearance. That said, opinions are mixed on performance and light.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers are satisfied with the quality of the camera. They mention it is a very fine piece of equipment, incredible, and weatherproof. The features and quality of this camera may make it the only camera they use. The build is awesome and the photos are pretty great for the price. The camera is impressive and is able to take high ISO with very low noise, and has a dynamic range of up to 1200. The included lens is actually really good and is easy to use. Overall, customers are happy with the camera's functionality and ease of use.
"...In "green" (Auto Picture) mode, it works well as a point and shoot for those just starting out but, the ease of use with this camera will..." Read more
"...…it’s not quite Photoshop or Lightroom, but it does a good job enhancing my shots – especially in the RAW mode.4...." Read more
"...Included lens: the Kit 18-55 is actually really good!..." Read more
"...That aside, the camera itself seems well built and sturdy, but it just doesn't feel substantial, take that how you will...." Read more
Customers find the digital camera easy to use. They mention that the menu is intuitive, with deep and simple settings. The autofocus is quick and the dials are comfortable. The camera is a great first time digital SLR and offers a lot of customization options. Overall, customers find the camera to be a fun and easy to operate.
"...well as a point and shoot for those just starting out but, the ease of use with this camera will have you rocking the aperture priority (Av) mode,..." Read more
"...1. Ease of Use I especially like the fact that there are both a front and back thumb-dials, and both LED live-view screen and a 100%-aspect..." Read more
"...Controls are well-placed and menus are simple and intuitive (unlike those of the Nex which are terrible)...." Read more
"...(rugged, reliable, straight-forward to use) are all still kicking in the K-50." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the image quality of the camera. They mention that the 16-megapixel resolution is plenty, and the pictures just turned out stunning with beautiful clarity and bokeh background. The image quality for the price is amazing, and this kit lens has very good optical quality. The live view is nice, and video is adequate. Overall, customers are happy with the quality and functionality of the product.
"...The camera takes exceptional photos and focuses quickly...." Read more
"...Either format produces some wonderful pictures. Many of the in-camera edit features (like HDR) are specifically used in the JPEG mode...." Read more
"...I also the image quality for the price is amazing! I will upload photos soon...." Read more
"...It simply isn't the camera for me. Image quality was good and the lcd display was bright and easy to read...." Read more
Customers appreciate the value of the camera. They mention that it has a good value, is a lot of camera for the price, and has great features. Some say that it is the best quality for the money.
"...Overall, a very good camera with a lot of features for a good price...." Read more
"...Canon and Nikon are great, but this camera is unbeatable at this price point, particularly with its weather resistance and great photography features..." Read more
"...the body only, body with 18-55, or 18-135 kit lens, this camera is a good value that will not be out-dated for many enthusiasts and folks who are..." Read more
"...This camera is only about $300 which is a very good price for a weather sealed camera. Most weather sealed cameras cost over $2,000...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the weather resistance of the digital camera. They mention that it is weatherproof with about 80 seals around, making it perfect for outdoor activities. The CMOS sensor camera is weather sealed, which is very helpful for the outdoors. The photo quality is great, and it held up fine under light rain and sea spray.
"...Has a weather-sealed body and kit lens, can be coupled with eye-fi for wireless photo transfer to a tablet or smartphone, Nikon and Canon do not..." Read more
"...The weather resistant fittings mean I don’t have to sweat it when taking it out in the rain or snow...." Read more
"...This feature helps a lot with macro work.Weather sealing is another great feature that you can't find on other DSLRs in this price range...." Read more
"...camera is unbeatable at this price point, particularly with its weather resistance and great photography features...." Read more
Customers like the appearance of the digital camera. They mention that the white looks really sleek, has a super classy chassis, and is pleased with the richness of color that they are able to achieve in their photography. Customers are also impressed with the clarity and bokeh background, and that it looks as good as new.
"...anyone was wondering, my K-50 is still working fine and still looks as good as new!..." Read more
"...The standard lens that comes with the camera is a cut above --amazing bokeh effect even in autofocus mode...." Read more
"...and I have to say - the camera is aesthetically awesome - a nice matte finish gives it this finished industrial sturdy look but the white is classic..." Read more
"...The colors look good and the autofocus is fast. Day pics look fantastic, night pics get noisy but not unbearably noisy for a casual photographer...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the performance of the camera. Some mention that it has a bright LCD, and quick performance, and memory writing. The focus is pin sharp and has little shutter lag. The ISO performance is amazing, and the menus are extensive and mostly intuitive. However, some customers say that the camera stopped working after two years of low usage, and had problems with the aperture motor failing to operate. The battery holder and the AA's won't work, and it wouldn't respond to anything.
"...This feature helps a lot with macro work.Weather sealing is another great feature that you can't find on other DSLRs in this price range...." Read more
"...If I lose the "battery holder" the AA's won't work! Who designs this stuff?..." Read more
"...You can quickly adjust your aperture, shutter speed, and ISO while staying in the camera's viewfinder...." Read more
"...AF locks on fast, I've not had it hunting even in low light interior use. Quick-shift focus gives greater composition control...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the light of the camera. Some mention that they love the low light shooting on this camera, while others say that they are disappointed with the low-light issues. The LCD display is bright and easy to read, and the engine is accurate in good light conditions. However, some customers say that all the photos are completely dark, and that the pictures are coming out almost totally black.
"...I really like this mode because it allows me to control the amount of light coming into the sensor and the depth of field while letting the camera..." Read more
"...that the LCD screen began to deteriorate and I would get black images after taking shoots, which apparently is an aperture issue...." Read more
"...fact that there are both a front and back thumb-dials, and both LED live-view screen and a 100%-aspect viewfinder...." Read more
"...Image quality was good and the lcd display was bright and easy to read...." Read more
Reviews with images
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Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
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I've shot on the other major ecosystems (Canon, Nikon) and Pentax is by far the one I have most fun with. The camera is lightweight, grips so excellent in the hand that I do not use the camera strap. Has a weather-sealed body and kit lens, can be coupled with eye-fi for wireless photo transfer to a tablet or smartphone, Nikon and Canon do not have weather sealing at this price level.
In "green" (Auto Picture) mode, it works well as a point and shoot for those just starting out but, the ease of use with this camera will have you rocking the aperture priority (Av) mode, shutter priority (Tv) mode, aperture/shutter (TAv) mode, sensitivity (Sv) mode and full manual (M) mode before you can say "Nikon". Dual jog wheel control allows quick changes to shutter speed and aperture. Exposure compensation +/- is at your fingertip right next to the shutter button. The camera takes exceptional photos and focuses quickly.
In the "green" mode, the camera will pick the correct scene for what is being shot but, if you don't like what it picks, you can choose a different scene from the display panel by hitting the "info" button twice and then using the cursor to choose the scene you want. The camera will manage it all for you if that is your desire but, the real magic will happen when you un-tether yourself from the auto mode.
The K50 has other cool features such as photo copyright info, custom user settings to create your own pre-progammed shooting modes, full manual mode and one other setting the other guys don't have is the aperture and shutter (TAv) mode together. I really like this mode because it allows me to control the amount of light coming into the sensor and the depth of field while letting the camera manage the iso and the exposure. If I don't like the cameras exposure setting, I can simply adjust it on the fly while shooting. Live View focus peaking, etc.
I've come up through the ranks with one Pentax or another along the way. I bridged from a Sony mega-zoom to the Pentax K-100d and then moved onto the Pentax K20d. They all performed well and will withstand the daily grind of shooting for a living.
The biggest drawback to me and it has been this way with all the entire Pentax line is the 1/180th limitation when using a manual flash. Most other brands will go as high as 1/250th and higher if you know how to cheat (like with the old Nikon D40). It's the one thing I have never liked about Pentax cameras but, it is not a showstopper. Making other in camera adjustments will make this limitation a non-issue with a little practice.
For under $400 with the standard kit lens, you can't go wrong and adding other lenses is not expensive as the others. You can get a 50mm f/1.8 prime lens for $90. There is a lot of great K-mount glass out there on the cheap. If you are looking to get into the dSLR game, this is your ticket in. You'll be totally happy with this camera.
Reviewed in the United States on January 10, 2016
I've shot on the other major ecosystems (Canon, Nikon) and Pentax is by far the one I have most fun with. The camera is lightweight, grips so excellent in the hand that I do not use the camera strap. Has a weather-sealed body and kit lens, can be coupled with eye-fi for wireless photo transfer to a tablet or smartphone, Nikon and Canon do not have weather sealing at this price level.
In "green" (Auto Picture) mode, it works well as a point and shoot for those just starting out but, the ease of use with this camera will have you rocking the aperture priority (Av) mode, shutter priority (Tv) mode, aperture/shutter (TAv) mode, sensitivity (Sv) mode and full manual (M) mode before you can say "Nikon". Dual jog wheel control allows quick changes to shutter speed and aperture. Exposure compensation +/- is at your fingertip right next to the shutter button. The camera takes exceptional photos and focuses quickly.
In the "green" mode, the camera will pick the correct scene for what is being shot but, if you don't like what it picks, you can choose a different scene from the display panel by hitting the "info" button twice and then using the cursor to choose the scene you want. The camera will manage it all for you if that is your desire but, the real magic will happen when you un-tether yourself from the auto mode.
The K50 has other cool features such as photo copyright info, custom user settings to create your own pre-progammed shooting modes, full manual mode and one other setting the other guys don't have is the aperture and shutter (TAv) mode together. I really like this mode because it allows me to control the amount of light coming into the sensor and the depth of field while letting the camera manage the iso and the exposure. If I don't like the cameras exposure setting, I can simply adjust it on the fly while shooting. Live View focus peaking, etc.
I've come up through the ranks with one Pentax or another along the way. I bridged from a Sony mega-zoom to the Pentax K-100d and then moved onto the Pentax K20d. They all performed well and will withstand the daily grind of shooting for a living.
The biggest drawback to me and it has been this way with all the entire Pentax line is the 1/180th limitation when using a manual flash. Most other brands will go as high as 1/250th and higher if you know how to cheat (like with the old Nikon D40). It's the one thing I have never liked about Pentax cameras but, it is not a showstopper. Making other in camera adjustments will make this limitation a non-issue with a little practice.
For under $400 with the standard kit lens, you can't go wrong and adding other lenses is not expensive as the others. You can get a 50mm f/1.8 prime lens for $90. There is a lot of great K-mount glass out there on the cheap. If you are looking to get into the dSLR game, this is your ticket in. You'll be totally happy with this camera.
I’m fairly new to photography, and haven’t settled into one particular genre. I enjoy street photography, cityscapes and landscapes, older buildings, some portraitures (including self-portraitures), candids at events, etc.. So I needed a camera that is versatile, somewhat compact, has a nice array of features, and is easy to use. I’m quite happy to say that I believe I made the right choice with the K-50.
1. Ease of Use
I especially like the fact that there are both a front and back thumb-dials, and both LED live-view screen and a 100%-aspect viewfinder. Most of the buttons are programmable, which allowed me to take my autofocus off of the shutter release and assign it to one of my back buttons. The menus are arranged logically and are easy to read. The nearly-300 page instruction book is pretty nicely laid out to the point that it’s fairly easy to find things.
2. Lenses
The two kit lenses mentioned above are typical kit lens. They do a great job on most photos, producing nice, sharp images. Despite the 1.5x crop factor, I find myself gravitating more to the 50-200mm lens for everyday use, which does a great job on everything from getting a good portrait to zooming in on midrange objects. The 18-55mm has done a nice job of capturing some decent landscapes, though there is some barrel distortion at the 18mm setting. If I decide to concentrate on landscape photography, I’ll probably invest in a better wide-angle lens.
3. Features.
After shooting in JPEG for a week or two, I’ve switched to shooting in RAW format. Either format produces some wonderful pictures. Many of the in-camera edit features (like HDR) are specifically used in the JPEG mode. I’ve used them and I’ve liked the results, but have been sticking to RAW for editing purposes. I’ll definitely go back and work with those features in the near future. Whatever functional features I’ve used thus far (bulb mode, bracketing, ISO priority mode, in-camera Image Stabilization) all work much as expected, and can really improve your ability to get the shot you really want to. The 12-second timer might be only bit longer than the usual 10 (on most cameras), but those extra two seconds have come in handy on more than one occasion. The weather resistant fittings mean I don’t have to sweat it when taking it out in the rain or snow. And there’s the Silkypix photo studio software that’s included…it’s not quite Photoshop or Lightroom, but it does a good job enhancing my shots – especially in the RAW mode.
4. Picture Quality and value
The 16MP density might appear a bit modest by today’s standards, but I have no complaint about picture quality whatsoever. Detail…color…sharpness…they’re all are absolutely wonderful. No disappointments whatsoever. As far as value goes, my research before buying this camera included DSLR’s and mirrorless cameras from Nikon, Canon, Samsung, Sony, Olympus, and Panasonic. No other camera offered as much bang for the buck as this K-50 kit with 2 lenses.
5. Now for the bad stuff
A few caveats do exist. The kit lens is a bit noisy for street photography or candids at close range. The LED is fixed, so you can’t flip it upwards or outwards for self-portraits or group shots. And it’s not a touchscreen. The battery life is shorter than most DSLR’s in this range (but comparable to most mirrorless cameras I’ve checked). There is much fewer lenses and accessories available for Pentax than for Nikon and Canon (though many older Pentax lens are compatible). Note: All these shortcomings were known to me prior to buying the camera, so they didn’t take me by surprise. I include them here to note the cameras shortcomings.
Final Word
After nearly three months, the K-50 continues to impress me. I have a long way to go as a photographer, and it’s nice to know that I have a camera that can make short work of the things I’ve thrown at it thus far. My confidence has really skyrocketed since getting this tool, and it shows in my photos. I heartily recommend this camera for anyone looking in the $450 - $650 price range.
Top reviews from other countries
Feels great in your hand. Takes great pics.
Almost switched to the C-word brand after my last Pentax SLR on button died after only 3 years. With multiple lens I I stayed loyal but if this one breaks early I'll switch next time.
This camera is Weatherized with 89 seals against moisture and dust/sand, including the kit lens, but only while it is mounted on the camera. while the lens is off and the internal of the body is exposed, the camera is still susceptible to all the woes.
Loving RED, this camera is striking. It's light and feels good in my hand. It will be heavier depending on the lenses you attach. the supplied lens is light. There is a reasonable priced ($4) hand strap available on Amazon.com that will make it even easier to handle and less likely to drop. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016MLWVE8?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00 Ships from China so it takes 7 weeks but the alternative is a Pentax branded strap I've seen for over $30.
Out of the box you can charge the battery, insert an SD card, set it to auto mode and point and shoot like any point and shoot camera. The 18-55mm included lens does a good job. Fast auto focus function and click you have it. The only mechanical feature on this lens is a rotary ring that chooses between 18mm, wide angle to 55mm, just over standard of 35mm about what our eyes see. The camera software adjusts all the F-stop, shutter speeds and ISO settings to get what ever you are pointing at. That's it, so easy.
Now if you are an X film person like me with older glass lenses with all the mechanical rings on them, (full manual everything) you're in luck as this body can use all the older K mount lenses in manual mode just like we used to do it. Pentax claims there are over 25 million lenses out there that will fit this body. There are also K mount adapter rings available that will let you mate to Canon, Nikon, and a few more lens types, including what is called the M42 screw mount style lenses. There are a couple of software settings to select to let the body know you are going full manual and then slap on the lenses and shoot like ya used to. Best of all, since it is digital, we still have that nice 3" LCD on the back that lets us see instantly the shots and do over with new lens settings as you wish. This is the best of the old and new worlds of photography. I got this camera on Amazon.ca for $469, much less that other Canadian sources. In some places of the world this goes for as high as the $900 US range. I feel like I got a real bargoooon as in 1987 when I got the SFN1, it cost me $600 back then for then top of the line Pentax auto zoom and all that stuff. Then I still had to buy all kinds of different speed films, shoot them with multi-bracketing same subjects to hedge my bets on the best shot, send in for processing and wait a week or two to come back, sort thru them and put 95% of them in the trash and keep the best few. That was a lot of dollars spent after the camera was in hand. With this DSLR there are no costs like that except if you go get something printed from your digital storage device or get set up with a printing device that lets you do it from your computer. For the odd printing I think it's cheaper to go to a pro shop and let them do it. Experimentation now costs nothing really. I see lots of fun ahead getting back into this hobby and discovering as much as I can about the added features that will enhance manual photography with this body. This ends my dissertation on my new K50.
I've run into only a couple of limitations at this early stage. Of course, there is the size of the sensor (16 MP), but the biggest limitation is my own lack of experience. This camera is making learning the art of photography an interesting challenge.