Just about every major digital camera manufacturer out there is gearing up for this year's Photokina trade show, set to start in the German city of Koln in the immediate future, and that's also the case with Pentax, who's just released the new K-r model, an entry-level DSLR digital camera that combines a colorful external design with a couple of interesting features on the inside.

Although the exterior of the camera is not exactly something to brag about (it's a tad underdeveloped, if you ask as), the K-r DSLR apparently delivers plenty of attractive features on the insider, starting with the Auto Picture, Scene, and Custom Image Processing modes that automate the photo-shooting process while still offering a high degree of manual and priority control.

The K-r offers a variety of new and improved features including a fast framerate, high ISO sensitivity, responsive autofocus, an improved 12.4 megapixel low-noise sensor and widescreen HD video capture that take it a step above an entry-level DSLR camera.

The device also packs a large 3-inch LCD with 921,000 dots of resolution and delivers faster high-speed 6 FPS framerate that captures 25 images in a single sequence and a maximum 1/6000 second shutter speed.

The camera also records 720p HD video at 25 FPS and makes very good use of both the Shake Reduction mechanism for sharp, blur-free images and the 11-point SAFOX IX autofocus system with dedicated AF assist lamp.

Other new features worth mentioning about the new DSLR from Pentax include the viewfinder focus point indicator, as well as the improved in-camera HDR image capture including a Night Scene HDR mode.

The K-r DSLR offers users a versatile dual-power-source design, with the choice of either a rechargeable lithium-ion battery or four AA-size battery power (using optional AA Battery Holder D-BH109).

PENTAX also announced the smc PENTAX DA 35mm F2.4 AL standard lens designed exclusively for use with PENTAX digital SLR cameras, which is touted as being versatile enough to be used with a wide range of subjects and applications for high-resolution images with edge-to-edge sharpness.

The PENTAX K-r digital SLR will ship in October 2010 for $799.95 USD (K-r Body Kit), $849.95 USD (K-r Lens Kit w 18-55), $899.95 USD (K-r Double Lens Kit w 18-55, 50-200) or $999.95 USD (K-r Double Lens Kit w 18-55, 55-300).

The PENTAX DA 35mm F2.4 AL lens also will ship in October for $219.95 USD.

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