Power Zoom Explained (Written By Ole Oest)


Pentax Power Zoom on FA 28-105mm

1. Power Zoom

The zoom is motorized. The motor allows for three zooming speeds at a small twist of the zoom ring. On cameras without support for power zoom the lens can be zoomed manually by turning the zoom ring.

2. Lens Retraction

The zoom lens retracts to its shortest physical size when powered off.

3. Zoom Clip Mode

You can preset a focal length and you can then recall that focal length by pressing the zoom setting button on the lens.

4. Image Size Tracking Mode

You compose using the viewfinder so that an object (e.g. a child) fills the frame as you desire (e.g. a full body shot). When the object moves towards you or away from you the camera will zoom the lens so that the object maintains its image size.

5. Zoom Effect Mode

The lens will automatically zoom from wide angle to tele during exposure thus creating a special effect where the subject diffuses radically outward.

Which Camera Bodies Support Power Zoom?

All five modes are supported by the PZ series of film bodies.

Certain other bodies like the K10D, MZ-5, MZ-5N, ZX-5 and ZX-5N support the first two modes mentioned above.


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