Pentax K10D

Picture Quality / Size Options (9.5)
The 10-megapixel K10D captures files natively at 3872 x 2592 in both RAW and JPEG formats. The camera writes two types of 12-bit/channel RAW files (PEF and DNG), along with 8-bit/channel JPEGs, which can be shot in three size and three compression variations. RAW + JPEGs can be simultaneously recorded in any of the formats listed above.

PEF and DNG files are only offered at full resolution, while JPEGs can be captured at 10 megapixels (3872 x 2592), 6 megapixels (3008 x 2000), and 2 megapixels (1824 x 1216). Compression can be set for JPEG files to: Best (1/3), Better (1/6), and Good (1/12).
RAW files (both types) can be processed in-camera, with adjustments made to image size/compression, white balance, ISO and exposure, color tone, saturation, sharpness, and contrast.

We found the K10D’s PEF and DNG files differ in size. This results in a larger buffer capacity when shooting DNG, capturing 11 successive shots in a burst, as opposed to the nine PEF files it can store.

The K10D is rare among the SLR pack in its inclusion of writable DNG files – Adobe’s open-standard RAW format. There’s differing schools of thought regarding the validity of the DNG format, but many are convinced its prevalence will increase. Pentax’s decision to offer both RAW formats is admirable, and again offers photographers more options for their given workflow. We hope more manufacturers follow suit.

Picture Effects Mode (9.5)
Along with its in-camera RAW processor, the K10D supplies a basic adjustment suite that includes saturation, sharpness, contrast, and tone corrections. These settings are useful for stylizing JPEG files, though they’re typical inclusions on most current DSLRs. However, Pentax has also included a Digital Filters component that allows for post-capture modification of JPEG images.

Available in Playback mode, "digital filters" are applied to recorded JPEGs, and can be saved as new files. The following filters are available: Black and White, Sepia, Color, Soft, Slim, and Brightness. Further adjustments can be made to each filter, adding an additional arm of creativity to the renderings. For instance, when previewing the Black and White filter, the rear e-dial scrolls through the different color channels. In the color filter selection, the front e-dial moves through the various options, while the rear dial adjusts the opacity of the filter (intensity of the effect). The softening and slimming filters, along with Sepia and Brightness, can also be scaled using the e-dial.

The K10D’s adjustment suite may not be its most creative element, but it includes the basic, necessary parameters, offering JPEG shooters room for playful exploration.