New function-expansion firmware for PENTAX K-1, K-1 Mark II and K-3 Mark III cameras:
Featuring the autumn-themed KYUSHU mode -- the second of season-specific Custom Images options -- to upgrade the imaging performance of PENTAX Limited-series lenses
TOKYO, October 18, 2022 －RICOH IMAGING COMPANY, LTD. is pleased to announce the release of new function-expansion firmware for PENTAX K-1, K-1 Mark II and K-3 Mark III digital SLR cameras. This firmware provides users with special-edition Custom Images, in combination with specific PENTAX Limited-series lenses. When downloaded, it adds the KYUSHU (nine autumns) mode as the second season-specific Custom Images option.
● Special-edition Custom Images
To make photographic experiences with PENTAX digital SLR cameras even more enjoyable and exciting, PENTAX provides a new approach to SLR photography, with special-edition Custom Images designed to create subject- or scene-specific finishing touches in combination with certain PENTAX Limited-series lenses -- lenses popular for their distinctive image rendition. PENTAX has been releasing a series of season-specific Custom Images to create distinctive finishing touches based on the spring, summer, autumn and winter seasons. When a lens is mounted, the camera automatically detects compatibility with the firmware. Once compatibility is confirmed, the user can then select a desired special-edition Custom Images mode.
● KYUSHU (nine autumns)
This special-edition, season-specific Custom Image mode is designed to recreate distinctive color renditions expressing the colors of autumn, and the fleeting feeling of the season. This mode is partnered with thin, lightweight single-focus Limited-series lenses.
● Upcoming schedule
Following on the KATEN and KYUSHU modes, PENTAX will release two more season-specific Custom Images modes specially designed for SLR photography in winter and spring. Check the chart below for detailed information.
| special-edition Custom Image mode | Compatible camera body | Partner lens* (Usable on all compatible camera bodies) |
|---|---|---|
| Summer：KATEN | PENTAX K-1 /K-1 Mark II PENTAX K-3 Mark III |
HD PENTAX-D FA 21mmF2.4ED Limited DC WR HD PENTAX-DA 15mmF4ED AL Limited |
| Autumn：KYUSHU | PENTAX K-1 /K-1 Mark II PENTAX K-3 Mark III |
HD PENTAX-FA 43mmF1.9 Limited HD PENTAX-DA 21mmF3.2AL Limited HD PENTAX-DA 40mmF2.8 Limited HD PENTAX-DA 70mmF2.4 Limited |
| Winter | PENTAX K-1 /K-1 Mark II PENTAX K-3 Mark III |
HD PENTAX-FA 31mmF1.8 Limited HD PENTAX-DA 35mmF2.8 Macro Limited |
| Spring | PENTAX K-1 /K-1 Mark II PENTAX K-3 Mark III |
HD PENTAX-FA 77mmF1.8 Limited HD PENTAX-DA 20-40mmF2.8-4ED Limited DC WR |
* Lenses compatible with winter and spring Custom Images are tentative choices and may be changed later.
Note: Special-edition, season-specific Custom Image modes other than KATEN will be named later and announced with the release of each firmware.