Awesome Cameras

Pentax IQZoom 140m Camera Manual

Brief History

The Pentax IQZoom 140 was released in the late 1990s to early 2000s as part of Pentax’s IQZoom/Espio series of compact 35mm point-and-shoot cameras. This series was known for offering a balance of ease of use, reliability, and versatile zoom ranges. The IQZoom 140 was one of the higher-end models in the lineup, featuring an extended 38-140mm zoom lens, making it a great choice for travel, portraits, and general photography.

During this time, compact zoom cameras were becoming increasingly popular as everyday film cameras, with brands like Pentax, Canon, Nikon, and Olympus competing in the market. The IQZoom 140 stood out due to its longer zoom range, automatic features, and compact design.

Key Features & Synopsis

  • Lens: 38-140mm f/4.8-12.5 zoom lens, providing a versatile range for wide-angle to telephoto shots.
  • Autofocus: Infrared active autofocus system for sharp images.
  • Exposure Control: Fully automatic exposure with programmed auto-exposure settings.
  • Shutter Speed Range: 1/400 sec to 2 seconds, adjusting automatically based on lighting conditions.
  • Flash Modes: Built-in flash with red-eye reduction, slow-sync, fill flash, and auto mode.
  • Viewfinder: Real-image zoom viewfinder with parallax correction for close-up shots.
  • Film Handling: Fully automatic DX-coded film detection (ISO 25-3200), motorized advance, and rewind.
  • Self-Timer: 10-second self-timer for delayed shots.
  • Body: Compact, plastic construction with a sliding lens cover for protection.
  • Power: Runs on one CR2 lithium battery, making it efficient and long-lasting.

Why It’s Still Popular Today

  • Long Zoom Range: The 38-140mm lens covers a wide variety of shooting situations.
  • Compact & Lightweight: Easy to carry and great for everyday use or travel.
  • Fully Automatic: Autofocus, auto-exposure, and motorized film handling make it simple to use.
  • Good Build Quality: Reliable and durable, with many working units still in circulation today.

Potential Downsides

  • Slow Lens: The f/4.8-12.5 aperture means it struggles in low-light conditions without flash.
  • Viewfinder Limitations: Some parallax error at close distances, common in compact zoom cameras.
  • No Manual Controls: Great for casual users but lacks settings for more advanced photographers.

Final Thoughts

The Pentax IQZoom 140 is a solid choice for those looking for a simple, automatic film camera with a long zoom range. While it may not be as hyped as premium point-and-shoots like the Yashica T4 or Olympus Mju II, it remains a fun, reliable option for anyone who enjoys shooting film with minimal effort.