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Returning to the starting point of photography: capture images with light and shadow
The PENTAX K-3 Mark III Monochrome features an exclusively designed image sensor that delivers the ultimate in black-and-white photography, enabling photographers to express a distinct view of the color-rich world in high-resolution black-and-white images.
Sample Gallery
Photo by Kerrick James. Captured with K-3 Mark III Monochrome and HD PENTAX-D FA MACRO 100mm F2.8ED AW
Photo by Kerrick James. Captured with K-3 Mark III Monochrome and HD PENTAX-DA* 11-18mm F2.8 ED DC AW
Photo by Kerrick James. Captured with K-3 Mark III Monochrome and smc PENTAX-DA 35mmF2.8 Macro Limited
Photo by Kerrick James. Captured with K-3 Mark III Monochrome and HD PENTAX-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3ED PLM WR RE
Photo by Kerrick James. Captured with K-3 Mark III Monochrome and HD PENTAX-D FA MACRO 100mm F2.8ED AW
PENTAX K-3 Mark III Monochrome + HD PENTAX-DA 21mmF3.2AL Limited
Distinguishing features of the PENTAX K-3 Mark III Monochrome
Monochrome-specific CMOS image sensor
Returning to the starting point of photography: capture images with light and shadow
Monochrome (or black-and-white) photography is the origin of photographic expression. Without color data, monochrome can more clearly depict the form and texture of a subject using light, shadow and the in-between gradations. This means that the photographer can create images that are more impressive and persuasive.
For users who want to master monochrome photography, the PENTAX K-3 Mark III Monochrome features an image sensor specifically designed to capture monochrome images only. By designing the camera solely for the purpose of monochrome photography, each pixel detects brightness data of the light coming through the lens. The obtained data is then directly converted to compose an image.
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 obtained color data while using adjacent areas of the image field as a reference.
Since a monochrome-specific image sensor can faithfully reflect the brightness data obtained by each pixel in the image — without the interpolation process — the photographer can create extra-fine monochromatic expression, in an image high in resolution and rich in gradation.
Image quality exclusively designed for monochrome photography
Image quality has been re-evaluated and redesigned to optimize the imaging characteristics of the monochrome-specific image sensor. Unlike a color sensor that requires the interpolation process, each pixel of the monochrome-specific image sensor corresponds precisely to each pixel in the resulting image. The result is minimal deterioration of the data obtained, and optimal visual expression. To optimize these advantages, the imaging process has been completely restructured to assure 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.
Image captured with the K-3 Mark III Monochrome
Image captured with the K-3 Mark III
Aperture: 5.6; Shutter speed: 1/20 sec.; ISO: 200
The image captured with the K-3 Mark III Monochrome more clearly and sharply depicts each strand of the thread. The gradation from highlight to shadow is also smoother and more consistent.
Monochrome-specific Custom Image
The PENTAX K-3 Mark III Monochrome features three Custom Image modes exclusively designed for the monochrome-specific image sensor: Standard, Hard and Soft. Each mode provides minute adjustment of parameters such as tone, key, contrast and sharpness. This allows the photographer to personalize images for the desired finishing touch.
Exterior design signifying the monochrome photography concept
The PENTAX K-3 Mark III Monochrome provides white backlight illumination on the LCD data panel positioned on its upper panel, while featuring the Monochrome lettering printed on the upper-left shoulder of the back panel. The camera’s User Interface menu features a black-and-white color scheme as default, while the SR (Shake Reduction) badge is finished in silver. The icons printed on buttons and switches across the camera’s exterior are finished in three shades of gray to assist the users with their camera operation. All in all, the concept of monochrome photography is evident throughout the camera body.
Other notable features
Minimum ISO setting at 200
Since the monochrome-specific image sensor is free of the color filters that cause a loss of light, it can take in more light. This allows the camera’s minimum ISO to be set at 200.
Fx button
Unlike full-color photography, in which color reproduction varies depending on the light source (or color temperature), monochrome photography doesn’t require white balance control. In the PENTAX K-3 Mark III Monochrome, the white balance button of the PENTAX K-3 Mark III is replaced with the Fx (function) button.
In-body shake reduction mechanism
The PENTAX K-3 Mark III Monochrome incorporates an advanced SR (Shake Reduction) mechanism, which lets the photographer use all types of lenses — from the latest to vintage — and to capture sharp, blur-free images while optimizing the distinctive visual expression of each lens.
Refer to the specifications page for original features of the PENTAX K-3 Mark III Monochrome.
Refer to the PENTAX K-3 Mark III product page for common features.
Model Description
| Type | TTL autofocus, auto-exposure SLR digital-still camera |
| Lens Mount | PENTAX KAF2 bayonet mount (AF coupler, lens information contacts, K-mount with power contacts) |
| Compatible Lens | KAF4, KAF3, KAF2 (power zoom compatible), KAF, KA mount lens |
Image Capture Unit
| Image Sensor | Monochrome, CMOS. Size: 23.3 x 15.5 (mm) |
| Effective Pixels | Approx. 25.73 megapixels |
| Total Pixels | Approx. 26.78 megapixels |
| Dust Removal | Image sensor cleaning using ultrasonic vibrations “DR II” |
| Sensitivity(Standard output) | ISO AUTO/200 to 1600000 (EV steps can be set to 1EV, 1/2EV or 1/3EV) |
| Image Stabilizer | Sensor-shift shake reduction “SR II”(5-axis), Auto/Panning/Off |
| AA Filter Simulator | Moiré reduction using SR unit. OFF/Low/High/Bracketing(2 images)/Bracketing (3 images) |
File Formats
| File Format | RAW (PEF/DNG), JPEG (Exif 2.3), DCF2.0 compliant |
| Recorded Pixels | JPEG:L(26M:6192×4128)、M(15M:4752×3168)、S(9M:3648×2432)、XS(2M:1920×1280) RAW:(26M:6192×4128) |
| Quality Level | RAW (14bit): PEF, DNG JPEG: ★★★ (Best), ★★ (Better), ★ (Good), RAW + JPEG simultaneous capturing available |
| Color Space | sRGB、AdobeRGB |
| Storage Medium | SD, SDHC and SDXC Memory Cards UHS-1/UHS-II compatible (UHS-II is only available for the memory card inserted in the SD1 slot.) |
| Dual SD Slot | Sequential Use, Save to Both, Separate RAW/JPG, Image copy between slots possible |
| Storage Folder | Folder Name: Date (100_1018,101_1019…) or User assigned folder name (Default “PENTX”) |
| Recording File | File Name: “”IMGP****”” or User assigned file name File name numbering: Sequential, Reset |
Viewfinder
| Type | Pentaprism Finder |
| Coverage (FOV) | Approx. 100% |
| Magnification | Approx. 1.05x (FA 50mmF1.4 at infinity) |
| Eye-Relief Length | Approx. 20.5mm (from the view window), Approx. 22.0mm (from the center of lens) |
| Diopter adjustment | Approx. -4.0m to + 1.0m-1 |
| Focusing Screen | Natural-Bright-Matte III focusing screen |
| Viewfinder Overlay | AF Points, Grid Display, Electronic Level, AF Frame, Spot Metering Frame, Crop, Smart Function, Operation Control Lock |
Live View
| Type | TTL method using image sensor |
| Focusing Mechanism | Contrast detection (Auto Area, Zone Select, Tracking, Select(L/M/S), Spot) |
| Functions | Focus Peaking, Face detection, Touch AF |
| Display | Field of View approx. 100%, Magnified view (up to 16x), Grid Display (4×4 Grid, Golden Section, Scale, Square(L), Square(S), Grid Color: Black/Gray/White ), Histogram, Bright area warning, Composition Adjustment |
LCD Monitor
| Type | Wide viewing angle TFT color LCD, Air-gapless glass |
| Size | 3.2 inch (aspect ratio 3:2) |
| Dots | Approx. 1620K dots |
| Touch Screen | Capacitive sensing method |
| Adjustment | Brightness, Saturation and Colors adjustable |
| Outdoor View Setting | Adjustable ±2 step |
| Night Vision LCD Display | ON/OFF |
Autofocus System
| Type | TTL: Phase-matching autofocus |
| Focus Sensor | SAFOX 13, 101 point (25 cross type focus points) |
| Brightness Range | EV-3 to 19 (ISO 200 / at normal temperature) *-3 EV is only available for AF points that support F2.8 light flux when an F2.8-light-flux compatible lens is attached. |
| AF mode | Single AF (AF.S), Continuous AF (AF.C) |
| AF Point Selection | Auto Area, Zone Select, Select, Expanded Area(S, M, L), Select(S), Select(XS), Spot |
| AF Assist Light | Dedicated LED AF assist light |
Metering
| Type | TTL open aperture metering using 307K pixel RGBIr sensor, Multi-segment, Center-weighted, Spot and Highlight-weighted |
| Metering Range | EV-2 to 21 (ISO200 at 50mm F1.4) |
| Exposure Mode | Scene Analyze Auto, Program, Sensitivity Priority, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, Shutter & Aperture Priority, Manual, Bulb, Flash X-sync Speed, USER1, USER2, USER3, USER4, USER5 |
| EV Compensation | ±5EV (1/2EV steps or 1/3EV steps can be selected) |
| AE Lock | Button type (timer type: two times the meter operating time set in Custom Setting); Continuous as long as the shutter button is halfway pressed |
Shutter
| Type | Electronically controlled vertical-run focal plane shutter / Electronic shutter |
| Shutter Speed | Mechanical shutter: Auto:1/8000 to 30 sec., Manual: 1/8000 to 30 sec. (1/3EV steps or 1/2EV steps), Bulb (Timed exposure setting possible from 1 sec. to 20min.) Electronic shutter: Auto:1/16000 to 30 sec., Manual: 1/16000 to 30 sec. (1/3EV steps or 1/2EV steps) |
Drive Modes
| Mode Selection | Single Frame, Continuous (H, M, L), Bracketing (2, 3 or 5 frames), Depth of Field Bracketing, Motion Bracketing, Mirror-up, Multi-Exposure(Average/Additive/Bright), Interval Shooting, Interval Composite |
| Self-timer | 12s, 2s |
| Remote Control | 0s, 3s |
| Continuous Shooting | Max. approx. 12 fps, JPEG ( L: ★★★ at Continuous H): up to approx. 55 frames, RAW: up to approx. 32 frames, RAW+: up to approx. 30 frames Max. approx. 7.0 fps, JPEG L: ★★★ at Continuous M): up to approx. 100 frames, RAW: up to approx. 40 frames, RAW+: up to approx. 33 frames Max. approx. 2.5 fps, JPEG ( L: ★★★ at Continuous L): up to approx. 100 frames, RAW: up to approx. 100 frames, RAW+: up to approx. 65 frames * The number of images captured in the continuous shooting mode is an approximate figure, tested at a sensitivity of ISO 200. The number may vary depending on the type of memory card used and/or the photographic conditions. * The continuous shooting speed may decrease depending on the type of lens used and/or the aperture, shutter speed and sensitivity selected by the user. * A certain amount of time is required for the playback of images captured in the continuous shooting mode. The time required may vary depending on the number of captured images and/or the recording format. |
External Flash
| Flash Modes | Auto Flash Discharge, Auto Flash + Red-eye Reduction, Flash On, Flash On + Red-eye Reduction, Slow-speed Sync, Slow-speed Sync + Red-eye, P-TTL, Contrast-control-sync, High-speed sync, Wireless sync *Contrast-control-sync and High-speed sync requires 2 or more dedicated external flash |
| Sync Speed | 1/200sec. |
| Flash Exposure Compensation | -2.0 to +1.0EV |
Capture Settings
| Custom Image | Standard, Hard, Soft |
| Digital Filter | Toy Camera, Retro, High Contrast, Shading, Invert Color, Tone Expansion, Grainy Monochrome |
| Clarity | Adjustable ±4 step |
| HDR | Auto, HDR1, HDR2, HDR3, Advanced HDR, Exposure bracket value adjustable, Automatic composition correction function |
| Lens Correction | Distortion Correction, Peripheral Illumin. Correction, Diffraction Correction |
| D-Range Correction | Highlight Correction, Shadow Correction |
| Noise Reduction | Slow Shutter Speed NR, High-ISO Noise Reduction |
| ASTROTRACER | Type 1, Type 2, Type 3 * Type 1 and Type 2 available with O-GPS unit(Optional) |
| Horizon Correction | SR On: correction up to 1 degrees, SR Off: correction up to 2 degrees |
| Composition Adjustment | Adjustment range of ±1.5mm up, down, left or right (±1mm when rotated); Rotating range of ±1 degree |
| Electronic Level | Displayed in viewfinder (Horizontal and vertical); Displayed on LCD monitor (Horizontal and vertical) |
| Program Line | AUTO, Normal, Hi-speed Priority, DOF Priority (Deep), DOF Priority (Shallow), MTF Priority |
Movie
| File Format | MPEG-4 AVC/H.264(MOV) |
| Recorded Pixels | 4K(3840×2160, 30p/24p) Full HD(1920×1080, 60p/30p/24p) |
| Sound | Built-in stereo microphone, external microphone (Stereo recording compatible) Recording Sound Level adjustable, Wind Noise Reduction |
| Recording Time | Up to 25 minutes or 4GB ; automatically stops recording if the internal temperature of the camera becomes high. |
| Custom Images | Standard, Hard, Soft |
| Digital Filter | Retro, High Contrast, Invert Color |
Playback
| Playback View | Single frame, Multi-image display (20, 48, 70 segmentation), Display magnification (up to 16, 100% display, quick zoom and Focus Magnification available), Grid display (4×4 Grid, Golden Section, Scale, Square(L), Square(S), Grid Color: Black/Gray/White, Rotating, Histogram (Y histogram), Bright area warning, Auto Image Rotation, Detailed information, Copyright Information (Photographer, Copyright holder), GPS information (latitude, longitude, altitude, Coordinated Universal Time) , Orientation, Folder Display, Calendar Filmstrip Display |
| Delete | Single image, All images, Selected images, Folder, Images on the selected shooting date, Instant review image |
| Digital Filter | Base Parameter Adj, Toy Camera, Retro, High Contrast, Shading, Invert Color, Tone Expansion, Grainy Monochrome, Miniature, Soft, Fish-eye, Slim, Frame Composite |
| RAW Development | RAW file select: Select Single Image, Select Multiple Images, Select a folder, Select a shooting date RAW Development Parameter: Custom Image, Sensitivity, Digital filter, Clarity, HDR, Distortion Correction, Peripheral Illumin. Corr., Diffraction Correction, High-ISO Noise Reduction, Shadow Correction, File Format (JPEG/TIFF), JPEG Recorded Pixels, JPEG Quality, Aspect Ratio, Color Space |
| Edit | Protect, Image Rotation, Image Copy, File Transfer, Save RAW Data in buffer memory, Resize, Cropping (Aspect ratio and Slant adjustment available), Levels Adjustment, Movie Edit (Divide or delete selected frames), Capturing a JPEG still picture from a movie |
Customization
| Settings | USER Mode, Fx Button, AF/AE Lock Settings, Preview Dial, E-Dial Programming, Smart Function, Monitor Touch Operation, Eye Sensor, Viewfinder Display, LCD Panel, Monitor Display, Instant Review, Zoom Review, Warning Display, Control Panel, Memory, EV Steps, ISO Sensitivity Steps, Input MF Lens Focal Length, Save Rotation Information, Aperture Information Record, AF Fine Adjustment, Copyright Information |
| Language | English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Dutch, Danish, Swedish, Finnish, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Turkish, Greek, Russian, Thai, Korean, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Japanese |
Power supply
| Battery Type | Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery D-LI90 |
| AC Adapter | AC Adapter Kit K-AC166(Optional) |
| Battery Life | Number of recordable images: Approx. 800 images Playback time: Approx. 250 minutes * With a fully-recharged Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery. Tested in compliance with CIPA standard. Actual results may vary depending on the shooting condition. |
Interfaces
| Connection Port | USB Terminal(USB Type-C), External cable switch terminal(2.5mm diameter), X-sync socket, HDMI output terminal (Type D) , Stereo microphone input terminal, Headphone terminal |
| USB Connection | USB 3.2 Gen1, Data Transfer: MTP/CD-ROM, Battery Recharge/Power Supply (Optional AC Adapter required) |
Wireless LAN
| Standards | IEEE 802.11b/g/n |
| Frequency (Center Frequency) |
2412MHz～2462MHz (1ch～11ch) |
| Security | Authentication: WPA2, Encryption: AES |
Bluetooth
| Standards | Bluetooth® v4.2 (Bluetooth Low Energy） |
| Frequency (Center Frequency) |
2402MHz～2480MHz(CH0～CH39) |
Dimensions and Weight
| Dimensions | Approx. 134.5mm (W) x103.5mm (H) x 73.5mm (D) (excluding protrusions) |
| Weight | Approx. 820g (Including dedicated battery and SD Memory Card), Approx. 735g (body only) |
Operating Environment
| Temperature | -10°C～40°C (14°F～104°F) |
| Humidity | 85% or less (no condensation) |
Accessories
| Included | Strap O-ST162, ME Viewfinder Cap, Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery D-LI90, USB Power Adapter, Power Plug, USB Cable I-USB166 <Mounted to the camera > Eyecup FU, Hot shoe cover FK, Sync socket 2p cap, Body mount cap KII, Battery Grip terminal cover |
| Software | Digital Camera Utility 5 |
Storage Capacity
＜Still＞(approx.)
| JPEG | RAW | ||||||||||||
| Recorded Pixels | L: 26M | M: 15M | S: 9M | XS: 2M | 6192 x 4128 | ||||||||
| 6192 x 4128 | 4752 x 3168 | 3648 x 2432 | 1920 x 1280 | ||||||||||
| Quality Level | ★★★ | ★★ | ★ | ★★★ | ★★ | ★ | ★★★ | ★★ | ★ | ★★★ | ★★ | ★ | PEF |
| 8GB | 411 | 704 | 1120 | 694 | 1185 | 1872 | 1168 | 1978 | 3105 | 4021 | 6630 | 9812 | 126 |
shots
＜Movie＞(approx.)
| Recorded Pixels | 4K 3840 x 2160 |
Full HD 1920 x 1080 |
|||
| 30p | 24p | 60p | 30p | 24p | |
| 8GB | 00:08’39” | 00:10’46” | 00:12’17” | 00:24’09” | 00:29’56” |
hh:mm:ss
* You can record up to 25 min. or 4GB movie for one shooting.
* ‘Storage Capacity’ refers to confirmed operation by RICOH IMAGING, and is intended for customer convenience but is not a guarantee by RICOH IMAGING to the customer.
* Use a high-speed SD memory card when recording movies. If the writing speed cannot keep up with the recording speed, writing may be interrupted during recording.
System Requirements
The following system environment is required in order to connect the camera to a computer and to install the supplied software “Digital Camera Utility 5”.
＜Windows＞
| OS | Windows 11, Windows 10 |
| CPU | Intel Core i5 or higher |
| RAM | 8GB or more |
| Free Disk Space | Program installation and start-up: 100 MB or more of available space Image file saving: Approximately 15 MB per file (JPEG) / approximately 50MB (RAW) |
| Monitor | 1280 x 1024 dots, 24 bit full-color or more |
＜Mac＞
| OS | macOS 13 Ventura, macOS 12 Monterey, macOS 11 Big Sur, macOS 10.15 Catalina |
| CPU | Intel Core i5 or higher |
| RAM | 8GB or more |
| Free Disk Space | Program installation and start-up: 100 MB or more of available space Image file saving: Approximately 15 MB per file (JPEG) / approximately 50MB (RAW) |
| Monitor | 1280 x 1024 dots, 24 bit full-color or more |
-
Battery Grip D-BG8
Model No. 37048 -
Auto Flash [AF540FGZ II] Weather Resistant
Model No. 30456 -
Auto flash [AF201FG]
Model No. 30458 -
Cable Switch CS-205 Cable Switch CS-205
Model No. 37248 -
Waterproof Remote Control O-RC1
Model No. 39892 -
Rechargeable L-ION Battery D-LI90(E)
Model No. 39993 -
Battery Charger Kit K-BC177
Model No. 37874 -
Battery Charger D-BC177
Model No. 37871 -
Battery Charger Kit K-BC90U
Model No. 39835 -
AC Adapter Kit K-AC166
Model No. 38372 -
Hot Shoe Cover O-HC177
Model No. 31081 -
Magnifying Eyecup O-ME53
Model No. 30150
Kenro Izu
Kenro Izu was born in Osaka, Japan in 1949. During studying art at Nihon University in Tokyo, Izu visited New York, and decided to reside there at age of 21 for the next 50 years. Since 2021, Izu is residing at Kanazawa, Japan.
After opening of Kenro Izu Studio in New York City in 1974, Izu started traveling and photographed world’s “Scared Places” in 1979. Since then, the project became his life-long work traveling over 30 countries. From 1983 Izu started creating photographs with platinum print using 14×20 inch film till now, photographing the “Scared Places” and “Still Life”. Since that year, Izu has held numerous exhibitions at galleries and museums in New York and elsewhere. Izu’s works are included in the museum collection, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography.
Lens: smc PENTAX-D FA MACRO 50mmF2.8
Aperture: F8.0
Shutter Speed: 0.5sec
Sensitivity: ISO 200
Exposure Compensation: -0.7EV
+ Other Photos
Lens: smc PENTAX-D FA MACRO 50mmF2.8
Aperture: F2.8
Shutter Speed: 1/50sec
Sensitivity: ISO 800
Exposure Compensation: -0.7EV
Lens: smc PENTAX-D FA MACRO 50mmF2.8
Aperture: F22
Shutter Speed: 0.6sec
Sensitivity: ISO 400
Exposure Compensation: -0.3E
Lens: smc PENTAX-D FA MACRO 50mmF2.8
Aperture: F29
Shutter Speed: 2.5sec
Sensitivity: ISO 400
Exposure Compensation: -0.7EV
Lens: smc PENTAX-D FA MACRO 50mmF2.8
Aperture: F8.0
Shutter Speed: 0.5sec
Sensitivity: ISO 200
Exposure Compensation: 0.0EV
Kouichi Akagi
Akagi was born in Tokyo. He shoots documentaries and news reports for editorials. He provides portrait photography for PR magazines and commercials. His work includes camera and photography magazines, online magazines, how-to books on taking photos, commentaries on camera mechanisms, and reviews for new cameras and lenses. He also reviews photograph collections and exhibitions. He also holds workshops where he teaches photography. He has used a wide range of cameras from the 1950s Leica to the latest digital cameras. He has published books entitled “Masterpiece Lenses for Classic Cameras” (Shogakukan), “Use Silver-Halide Film Cameras!” (Heibonsha), “Throw Away Your Zoom Lens!” (Genkosha), “Akagi Camera Clinic Mark II” (Genkosha), and the latest publication “Film Camera Debauchery” (Hobby Japan).
Lens: HD PENTAX-DA 20-40mmF2.8-4ED Limited DC WR
Aperture: F10
Shutter Speed: 1/1000sec
Sensitivity: ISO 400
Exposure Compensation: -0.7EV
+ Other Photos
Lens: HD PENTAX-FA 43mmF1.9 Limited
Aperture: F9.0
Shutter Speed: 1/1000sec
Sensitivity: ISO 400
Exposure Compensation: -0.3EV
Lens: HD PENTAX-DA 21mmF3.2AL Limited
Aperture: F5.0
Shutter Speed: 1/125sec
Sensitivity: ISO 400
Exposure Compensation: -1.0EV
Lens: smc PENTAX-FA28-80mmF3.5-5.6
Aperture: F11
Shutter Speed: 1/100sec
Sensitivity: ISO 400
Exposure Compensation: -0.7EV
Lens: HD PENTAX-DA 20-40mmF2.8-4ED Limited DC WR
Aperture: F13
Shutter Speed: 1/500sec
Sensitivity: ISO 400
Exposure Compensation: -0.7EV
K-3 Mark III Monochrome Camera Body
Strap O-ST162
ME Viewfinder Cap
Rechargeable Lithium-ion Battery D-LI90
USB Power Adapter
Power Plug
USB Cable I-USB166
