Awesome Cameras

Pentax IQZoom 120mi Camera Manual

Brief History

The Pentax IQZoom 120Mi was released in the late 1990s as part of Pentax’s IQZoom/Espio series of compact 35mm point-and-shoot cameras. Pentax was known for producing reliable and well-built compact cameras, and the IQZoom 120Mi was designed to offer versatility and ease of use, appealing to casual photographers and travelers.

During this era, many camera manufacturers were competing in the zoom compact camera market, with models featuring increasing zoom ranges, auto-focus advancements, and improved flash functions. The IQZoom 120Mi was one of Pentax’s higher-end compact models, offering a 120mm zoom lens in a sleek, lightweight body.

Key Features & Synopsis

  • Lens: 38-120mm f/5.6-12.8 zoom lens, allowing for both wide-angle and telephoto shots.
  • Autofocus: Fully automatic infrared autofocus system.
  • Exposure Modes: Automatic exposure with various shooting modes, including red-eye reduction, slow sync, and fill flash.
  • Shutter Speed Range: 1/400 sec to 2 seconds, with automatic settings.
  • Viewfinder: Real-image zoom viewfinder with parallax correction.
  • Film Loading & Advance: Fully automatic DX-coded film detection (ISO 25-3200), with motorized film advance and rewind.
  • Self-Timer: Built-in 10-second self-timer for delayed shots.
  • Body: Compact, sleek plastic design with a built-in sliding lens cover for protection.
  • Power: Uses one CR2 lithium battery, making it efficient for travel.

Why It’s Still Popular Today

  • Compact & Lightweight: Perfect for travel and everyday use.
  • Decent Zoom Range: 38-120mm covers a good range of subjects, from landscapes to portraits.
  • Automatic Convenience: Autofocus, auto-exposure, and motorized film handling make it a true point-and-shoot experience.
  • Reliable Build: Pentax compact cameras were known for their durability, and many still work well today.

Potential Downsides

  • Slow Lens: The f/5.6-12.8 aperture means it’s not great in low-light conditions without flash.
  • Viewfinder Parallax: Common in compact cameras, but an issue for precise framing at close distances.
  • Limited Manual Control: A fully automatic camera, so not ideal for those who like to adjust settings manually.

Final Thoughts

The Pentax IQZoom 120Mi is a solid 35mm point-and-shoot camera for casual users who want a compact, reliable film camera with a decent zoom range. While not as sought-after as some premium compacts, it remains a fun and practical choice for film enthusiasts looking for a simple auto-everything camera.