Pentax MZS
Review of the Pentax MZ-S Film Camera: A Hidden Gem for Analog Enthusiasts
The Pentax MZ-S is often hailed as one of the last great 35mm film cameras, encapsulating the pinnacle of Pentax’s innovation before the digital age truly took over. Released in 2001, the MZ-S was part of Pentax’s professional-grade lineup, and though it didn’t quite achieve the legendary status of some of its competitors, it remains a cult favorite among film photographers. In this review, we’ll explore what makes the Pentax MZ-S such a compelling choice for both seasoned photographers and those dipping their toes into the world of film.
Design and Build Quality
The first thing that strikes you about the Pentax MZ-S is its unique, ergonomic design. Unlike many of its boxier competitors, the MZ-S sports a sleek, contoured body with a distinctive sloping top plate. This design not only gives it a modern, almost futuristic look (for its time) but also improves handling. The camera feels balanced and comfortable in hand, with controls intuitively placed for easy access.
The build quality is excellent, featuring a robust metal body with a high level of durability. This is a camera that feels like it can withstand the rigors of professional use, despite being more compact and lightweight than some other professional SLRs of its era. The MZ-S was clearly designed with the working photographer in mind, prioritizing both form and function.
Viewfinder and Autofocus
One of the standout features of the MZ-S is its bright, clear viewfinder, which offers 92% coverage and a magnification of 0.75x. This makes composing shots a pleasure, especially in low-light conditions. The viewfinder is equipped with an information display that provides all the essential shooting details, ensuring you never have to take your eye off the scene.
The autofocus system on the MZ-S is another highlight. It’s fast and accurate, even by modern standards. The camera employs a 5-point autofocus system that works well in most situations, though it might struggle slightly with fast-moving subjects or in extremely low light. However, for general use, the autofocus performance is more than adequate, and the camera’s manual focus capabilities are also excellent, with a smooth and precise focusing ring.
Exposure and Metering
The MZ-S offers a full range of exposure modes, including Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and Manual, making it suitable for photographers of all skill levels. The exposure compensation dial is conveniently located and allows for adjustments in 1/2 EV steps, providing fine control over your exposures.
Metering is handled by a sophisticated 16-segment sensor that delivers consistent and reliable results. Whether you’re shooting in challenging lighting conditions or just trying to capture a well-exposed image, the MZ-S’s metering system is one of its strongest features.
Film Handling and Performance
Loading film into the MZ-S is a breeze, thanks to its automatic film winding and rewinding mechanism. The camera also has a built-in data back, which can imprint the date or exposure information onto your film—a feature that can be invaluable for professional work or archival purposes.
In terms of performance, the MZ-S delivers on all fronts. The shutter speed ranges from 30 seconds to 1/6000th of a second, and the camera can shoot at a continuous rate of 2.5 frames per second. These specifications make it versatile enough to handle everything from landscape photography to fast-paced action shots.
Conclusion
The Pentax MZ-S may not have achieved the same fame as some of its contemporaries, but it remains a highly capable and enjoyable camera to use. Its combination of ergonomic design, solid build quality, and advanced features make it a standout option for anyone serious about film photography. Whether you’re a professional looking for a reliable backup or an enthusiast in search of a high-quality SLR, the Pentax MZ-S deserves serious consideration. It’s a hidden gem in the world of 35mm film cameras, offering a unique blend of classic analog charm and modern functionality.
you can watch a video review of the MZ-S here
