Why the Pentax 17 Deserves a Spot in Your Camera Collection

Seriously, after the recent 3 cameras review of the Rollei AF 35 , the Nana Camera and then the Pentax 17 film cameras that you can read all about it here, a fact becomes clear is how good of a camera the Pentax 17 is. 

You can get a unit here, but read the whole blog to unlock a special discount. 

Loading the Film

• Pentax 17: 9/10

Handling and Shooting

• Pentax 17: 8/10

Battery Life

• Pentax 17: 6/10

If you’re in the market for a compact, reliable, and feature-rich film camera, the Pentax 17 is a standout option. With its innovative design and practical usability, this half-frame camera strikes a balance between user-friendliness and image quality, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned photographers and newcomers to the analog world.

Effortless Loading with the Advanced “Help Load” Mechanism

One of the Pentax 17’s most impressive features is its advanced “help load” mechanism. Loading film into a camera has traditionally been a daunting task for many, but the Pentax 17 simplifies the process to the point of being virtually foolproof. This innovation makes it the most user-friendly camera in its class and ensures that even first-time users can load film with confidence.

Half-Frame Format: Twice the Shots, with Considerations

The Pentax 17’s half-frame format is another standout feature. Offering double the shots per roll, it’s an ideal choice for those looking to maximize their film’s value. This format is particularly appealing for budget-conscious photographers or those who love experimenting with compositions.

However, the smaller frame size does come with tradeoffs. Similar to the difference between an APS-C sensor and a full-frame sensor in digital photography, the reduced frame size can impact image quality. Photographers should also be mindful of certain quirks, such as accidental finger placement in shots—a common issue that requires attention to hand positioning. Additionally, cropping becomes critical, especially in close-up mode. Remember to adjust the focus zone appropriately to ensure sharp and well-composed images.

Battery Considerations: Convenience vs. Availability

Both the Pentax 17 and its competitor, the Rollei AF, use a CR2 battery. While these batteries are not as widely available as standard AA or AAA options, they can still be found in stores like Bunnings and Woolworths, typically priced between $10 and $20. On average, a single CR2 battery will last for 4–5 rolls of film, making it a reliable power source for most photography sessions.

The Pentax 17’s Value Proposition

Priced at $850, the Pentax 17 offers excellent value for its unique blend of features and performance. Its ease of use, solid image quality, and innovative design make it a joy to shoot with. While the half-frame format may not suit every photographer’s needs, it’s a worthwhile tradeoff for those who appreciate its benefits.

For anyone looking to expand their analog photography toolkit, the Pentax 17 delivers a delightful balance of practicality and creativity. Whether you’re capturing everyday moments or exploring artistic compositions, this camera is a reliable companion that’s worth the investment.

What to beware of

What to beware of while using the camera , to make sure to adjust the focal scale accordingly and yes there are up to 6 to choose from and beware while you are using the nearest 3 options, factor in the cropped facto that it brings. Finally also please make sure you don't have your finger obstructing the lens too as this can happen very easily. 

Let's get the ugly one out of the way, so this above photo is an example how the focus scale is not set properly, you can see the softness or out of focus in this photo.

 Then you got these two closer up photos which was done correctly in the focusing scale which give you some really amazing sharpness and shots.