Pentax K-3 Mark III Monochrome Camera Body (Black)

Monochrome-specific CMOS image sensor

The PENTAX K-3 Mark III Monochrome incorporates a monochrome-specific, APS-C-format CMOS image sensor free of an AA (anti-aliasing) filter with approximately 25.73 effective megapixels. Typical color image sensors are designed to receive light passing through red (R), green (G), and blue (B) color filters, so each pixel detects only one color data component. To compose a monochrome image, color sensors must convert color data into monochromatic data by interpolating the color data they collect. The new monochrome-specific image sensor, however, can faithfully reflect the brightness data obtained by each pixel in the image — without the interpolation process — to produce extra-fine monochromatic expression, in images high in resolution and rich in gradation.

Image quality exclusively designed for monochrome photography

The image quality produced by the original PENTAX K-3 Mark III was thoroughly reevaluated and totally redesigned to optimize the imaging characteristics of the new monochrome-specific image sensor. The result is a highly sensitive expression with a natural bokeh (defocus) effect, rich gradation, and extra-fine sharpness — an image only the monochrome-specific image sensor can deliver.

A selection of monochrome-specific finishing touches

The PENTAX K-3 Mark III Monochrome offers three Custom Image modes exclusively designed for monochrome photography to provide distinctive finishing touches. In addition to Standard mode, it also provides Hard mode to produce high-contrast images, and Soft mode to create high-key, low-contrast images. Each mode provides minute adjustments of parameters such as tone, key, contrast, and sharpness, allowing the photographer to personalize images for the desired finishing touch.

Exterior design reflecting the monochrome photography concept

The concept of monochrome photography is evident throughout the PENTAX K-3 Mark III Monochrome camera body, from the white backlight illumination on the LCD data panel positioned on its upper panel, to the “Monochrome” lettering printed on the upper-left shoulder of the back panel, and the SR (Shake Reduction) logo finished in silver. The camera’s user interface menu features a black-and-white color scheme as default, while the icons printed on buttons and switches across the camera’s exterior are finished in three shades of gray.

Note: Since the PENTAX K-3 Mark III Monochrome is solely designed for black-and-white photography, some of its features and functions may differ from those of the PENTAX K-3 Mark III.