Pentax 17 Compact Film Camera - Silver/Grey, Black

The Pentax 17 is an old school film camera with a modern twist, shooting two 'half' images on a si...

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GamingKitPentax Dark/Silver 17 Film Camera - Camera + 10X 36 Exposure 35Mm Fi
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PcNova.co.ukPentax Dark/Silver 17 Film Camera - Camera + 10X 36 Exposure 35Mm Fi
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CurrysPentax 17 Compact Film Camera With Kodak Film - Pack Of 10, Black,Silver/Grey
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Maplin UKPentax 17 Film Camera - Dark Silver (Camera + 10x 36 Exposure 35mm Film)
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Product Information

Full details

The Pentax 17 is designed for photography enthusiasts seeking the tactile experience of film with cost-saving efficiency. Its key benefit is doubling the number of images per 35mm roll, making film processing more economical. A potential caveat is the manual nature of focus and film winding, which requires a learning curve for those accustomed to digital convenience. This camera offers a unique half-frame 35mm format, manual film advance, manual zone focusing, and a fixed 25mm lens, all housed in a compact and lightweight body. This kit also includes ten rolls of 35mm color negative film.

All features

BrandPentax

Extended Product Information

FAQs

How does the half-frame format work?

The Pentax 17 captures two smaller images (17mm x 24mm) side-by-side on a standard 35mm film frame. This effectively doubles the number of photos you can get from a single roll, typically resulting in 72 photos from a 36-exposure roll.

What type of film does it use?

The camera uses standard 35mm color negative film. The kit includes ten rolls to get you started.

Is the focus automatic?

No, the Pentax 17 features a manual zone focusing system. You select a focus zone based on your estimated distance to the subject.

What is the lens focal length?

The camera is equipped with a fixed 25mm HD PENTAX lens.

How do I rewind the film?

Once you have finished a roll, you typically engage a rewind mechanism (refer to the camera's manual for the specific switch or button) and turn a rewind crank or knob to spool the film back into its canister.

What are the benefits of using a half-frame camera?

The main benefits are increased film economy (more photos per roll) and a unique aesthetic. It also encourages a more deliberate shooting style.

Can I use any type of 35mm film?

While it uses standard 35mm film, color negative film is recommended for the best results and most common processing. Black and white film can also be used.

Troubleshooting

Film advance lever is stiff or won't move.

Ensure the film is loaded correctly and that the film leader is properly attached to the take-up spool. If the film is fully exposed, you will need to rewind it before advancing again.

Photos are consistently out of focus.

Practice using the zone focusing system. Ensure you are accurately estimating the distance to your subject and setting the corresponding focus zone on the lens.

Camera does not seem to be advancing film.

Check that the film is loaded correctly and that the advance mechanism is properly engaged with the film perforations. Ensure you are turning the lever fully with each shot.

Flash is not firing.

Check that the flash has had sufficient time to charge (indicator light may be present). Ensure the flash is not disabled by camera settings.

Film counter not advancing.

Verify that the film is loaded and the advance lever is being used correctly after each shot. The counter may require manual setting to '1' after loading.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Maximizes film usage, reducing per-photo costs.
  • Offers an authentic manual film photography experience.
  • Compact and easy to carry for everyday use.
  • Includes starter film, allowing immediate use.
  • Simple controls suitable for beginners to film.

Cons

  • Requires manual focus, which has a learning curve.
  • Half-frame format means lower resolution per individual image compared to full-frame 35mm.
  • Manual film winding can be slower than automatic winding.
  • Fixed focal length limits compositional flexibility.
  • Reliance on physical film and processing adds time and ongoing cost.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Loading Film: Open the camera back by sliding the lock. Insert the film spool into the left chamber and the take-up spool into the right. Pull the film leader across to the take-up spool, insert the leader into a slot, and turn the film advance lever to advance the film slightly to engage the sprockets. Close the camera back. Advance the film until the frame counter shows '1'.

Focusing: Use the zone focusing system. The lens has distance markings (e.g., 1m, 1.5m, 3m, infinity). Select the appropriate zone based on your estimated subject distance.

Exposure: The camera offers automatic exposure. In Auto mode, the camera selects the aperture and shutter speed. In Program mode, you can influence exposure based on lighting conditions.

Flash: The built-in flash can be activated manually. Ensure it is powered up before use.

Compatibility: The Pentax 17 uses standard 35mm color negative film. It is not compatible with digital media.

Care: Keep the lens clean using a microfiber cloth. Avoid exposing the camera to extreme temperatures, moisture, or dust. Store in a dry place when not in use. Never force the film advance lever if resistance is met; rewind the film if necessary.

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