Film cameras
Pentax LX User manual
User manual for Pentax LX. 56 pages in English. Read the original PDF, download or print a copy without registration.
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- Brand
- Pentax
- Model / document
- Pentax LX
- Document type
- User manual
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 56
- File size
- 3.7 MB
- Category
- Film cameras
- Document date
- Not specified in catalog
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Venmo @mike-butkus-camera
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WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF PENTAX PHOTOGRAPHY!
Designed and engineered with the precision, reliability and dedication to quality that has made Pentax a leader in photography
throughout the world, your new Pentax LX 35mm System SLR camera has the features and flexibility to meet virtually any
photographic challenge, and the accuracy of its Integrated Direct Metering through-the-lens light measurement is unexcelled.
From the fast paced realm of news photography to capturing the breathtaking serenity of a panoramic mountain landscape, from the
quick action of sports to the demanding world of macrophotography, from portraiture to candid, your Pentax LX is the key which
will enable you to reach new levels of creativity and photographic excellence.View original page 2Page 3 · Read text
www.butkus.us
Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, a little extra time taken to read through the Owner's Manual carefully
will be time well spent. By familiarizing yourself thoroughly with your camera you will not only learn of all the benefits it has to
offer, you'll also insure yourself years of trouble-free operation.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Multiple Exposures ............32
Benefits of LX Photography ......4
Using a Tripod/Time Exposures at "B" . ............34
Description of Parts ..................... 6
Infrared Photography 35
Batteries .........................10
Depth-of-Field Scales: 36
Attaching the Viewfinder ............... 12
Depth-of- Field Tables . . . . . . .. . 37
Mounting the Lens ....................14
Shooting with TTL Integrated Automatic Flash Units . . .
Advancing the Film ............15
. . . . .38
Loading the Film .....................16
"Dedicated" Automatic Flash Units . . . . . . . . 40
Setting the Film Speed/Memo Holder ............17
Other Flash Units , , . 41
Setting the Shutter Dial .................18
Case and Strap . . . . . . . . . . 42
Activating the Meter ............19
Grips . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Focusing .. . . . . . . . . . . . .. . 20
Using thread mount Takamar Lenses . . . . . . . 44
The Standard FA-1 Viewfinder Display 21
Maintaining the Camera . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
Shooting Automatically . . . . . .. . ... ... . 22
LX Interchangeable Viewfinders . . . . . . . 46
Using the Exposure Compensation Dial. . . . . 24
Changing the Focusing Screen . . . . . . . . . 48
Manual Exposure Control . . . . . . . .26
Winder/ Motor Drive System . . . . . . . . . . 50View original page 3Page 4 · Read text
Meter Coupling Range . . . . . . . 27 Data Recording9 System . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Unloading the Film . . . . . . . 28 Pentax Lens System . . . . . . . . 56
Holding the Camera . . .. . . . 29 Specifications . . . . . . . 62
Using the Self-Timer/Depth-of- Field Preview/Mirror Warranty . . . . . . . 64
Lock. . . . . 30
THE BENEFITS OF LX PHOTOGRAPHY
IDM Light Measurement
The heart of the Pentax LX is the Integrated Direct Metering (IDM) system which employs a Silicon Photo Diode to measure light
directly off the film plane for superb accuracy in exposure control. Incorporating a special pattern on the shutter curtain for high
speed measurements and a unique secondary mirror which transmits information to the LX viewfinder almost to the precise moment
of exposure, the IDM system of through-the-lens light measurement assures accuracy even under the most difficult and changing
lighting conditions. The need for exposure compensation when using system accessories such as focusing screens or interchangeable
finders is virtually eliminated.View original page 4Page 5 · Read text
www.butkus.us Interchangeable Finders and Screens The LX System includes a wide array of interchangeable viewfinders and focusing screens to meet the challenge of any photographic situation. The unique FB-1 Systems Finder features optional viewing accessories to create a viewing system within a system, and the standard FA-1 Finder features a built-in TTL "X" synch hot shoe which lets you take full advantage of the IDM light measurement system (See pages 46 to 49) Titanium Electro-Mechanical Shutter The LX camera features an extremely broad range of shutter speeds. The titanium electro-mechanical shutter mechanism delivers electronically-controlled stepless speeds in the automatic mode from an amazingly fast 1/2000th second down to 125 seconds, provides manual speeds from 1/2000th second to 4 seconds, and features a special design which provides manual speeds from 1/2000th second to "X" even when the batteries fail (see page 11,18). TTL Integrated Automatic Flash Control Integrated Automatic Flash Control with the Pentax AF-280T and AF-400T Flash Units makes flash photography exceptionally simple and accurate even with difficult bounce lighting or at close subject distances. Because the IDM system measures light at the film plane, the LX works with TTL flash models to measure both ambient and electronic flash lighting for exposure accuracy regardless of the lens aperture. These units also feature automatic "X" synchronization and a visible exposure check and ready light in the viewfinder when the capacitor reaches full charge (see page 38). Rugged, Lightweight, Compact Design Designed to handle the most rugged and demanding professional assignments, the LX remains incomparably compact and lightweight among the 35mm SLR camera systems. Its specially contoured body design allows it to rest comfortably in your hands even with Motor Drive or Winder attached. Weighing only 803 grams (28 ounces) with normal f/1.4 lens and standard Finder, the LX is designed to go anywhere and capture the action with the ultimate in handling ease and carrying convenience. Special gaskets and linings at key points throughout the body make the LX extra durable and resistant to heat, shock and moisture. The LX is backed by a comprehensive system of accessories with more than 40 Super-Multi-Coated Pentax lenses and hundreds of attachments to meet virtually any picture-taking need. (seepages 56-59). DESCRIPTION OF PARTSView original page 5
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Digitally signed by Mike Butkus
DN: cn=Mike Butkus, o=Butkus camera
manuals, ou=butkus.org,Mike Butkus email=mike@butkus.org, c=US
Date: 2023.05.17 13:20:46 -04'00'View original page 6Page 12 · Read text
BATTERIES
Inserting the Batteries
The electronic systems of your Pentax LX operate on two 1.5-volt mini batteries which
are packed separately with your camera. To insert the batteries, first remove the battery
chamber cap at the base of the camera by inserting the edge of a coin and turning in the
direction of the arrow. Place the two batteries in the chamber as shown making sure the
positive (+) sides face up.
Replace the chamber cap and tighten securely.
Battery Check
After inserting the batteries it is often helpful to make a quick check to see if batteries are
inserted properly and the camera's electrical systems are functioning. To check battery
voltage, activate the camera's metering system by pressing the shutter button partway and
observe the viewfinder LED shutter speed display. The shutter speed LED will glow
continuously if normal voltage is being supplied.
Low Battery Warning
When batteries become weak the viewfinder shutter speed LED will begin to flicker.
Although all electronic systems will continue to function accurately until the display goes
out completely, both batteries should be replaced promptly to ensure uninterrupted
operation of the camera's electronic exposure controls.View original page 12Page 13 · Read text
www.butkus.us Operating the Camera Without Batteries When the LED shutter speed display no longer lights, batteries are dead. However, the LX camera incorporates an electro- mechanical shutter system which allows the photographer to continue taking pictures over a broad range of shutter speeds even when the batteries no longer function due to exhaustion or temporary failure from temperature extremes. Should battery failure occur while shooting within the camera's mechanical shutter speed range (i.e., from l /2000 second to "X") no interruption of camera operation will take place. However, should batteries fail while operating in the "Automatic" exposure mode or within the electronically controlled shutter speed range (from l /60 second to 4 seconds) the mirror will automatically lock up as a warning. To continue picture-taking, simply turn the shutter speed dial to any of the mechanically operated settings (l /2000 second to "X"). NOTE: Should you wish to save the exposure being made when the mirror lock-up occurred, before changing the shutter speed dial, first cover the lens with the lens cap. Then, release the mirror as described above and press the film rewind/multiple exposure button at the base of the camera. Advance the film and take the picture. IMPORTANT! NEVER THROW USED BATTERIES INTO FIRE OR EXCESSIVE HEAT TO PROTECT AGAINST EXPLOSION. Al WAYS KEEP BATTERIES OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN. Battery Care Under normal operating conditions, the two 1.5-volt alkaline mini-batteries in your camera will last several months. Should batteries require replacement, replace BOTH at the same time with equivalent 1.5 volt alkaline or silver oxide mini-batteries. Keeping a spare set of batteries on hand can help you avoid the inconvenience of battery failure during busy picture-taking sessions, especially when shooting in cold climates where failure due to extreme temperatures is not uncommon. Protect your camera from leakage by removing the batteries whenever the camera will not be in use for long periods of time. CASE A CASE AND STRAP STRAPView original page 13
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Attaching the Strap
The strap which accompanies your LX can be used in two ways. Before attaching the strap, press the twin tab of the fastener (Tab A)
with the edge of a coin until the single tab (Tab B) protrudes.
To Carry the Camera Horizontally
When carrying the camera around your neck or when using the Standard Eveready Case, first attach one of the strap fasteners to
either Accessory Lug (C) or (D) and press Tab (B) with a coin until Tab (A) protrudes, thereby locking the fastener to the lug.
Repeat with the other fastener.
To Carry the Camera Vertically
When you wish to carry the camera shoulder style, unlock the fastener attached to Accessory Lug C by pressing Tab (B) until Tab
(A) protrudes. Then, remove the fastener and attach it to Accessory Lug (E)
IMPORTANT: Before carrying the camera by the strap, jiggle the fasteners back and forth while pulling on the strap to make sure
that the fastener is locked securely to the accessory lug. If not locked properly, the strap could come off and damage your camera.
CASE
The standard Eveready Case for your LX features a half-moon lock as added protection against coming open while carrying the
camera. To remove the case front cover, turn the cover a full 180° as shown so that the fastener unlocks, and separate.
CAUTION: Do not try to remove the front cover without first turning it so that the fastener unlocks (this could weaken or break the
fastener).
The Pentax LX system includes different types of accessory grips.
Accessory Grip B is hand-contoured for added balance and handling
convenience. For more precise requirements, the Accessory Grip A
can be shaped to meet the photographer's individual needs using a
whittling knife or similar instrument and sandpaper to smooth out the
rough edges.View original page 14Page 15 · Read text
www.butkus.us To attach either grip, first place the grip over the accessory lug (C) making sure the screw aligns with the socket at the bottom front of the camera (F). Tighten the screw using a screwdriver or coin.View original page 15
Page 16 · Read text
USING thread mount TAKUMAR LENSES
Super-Takumar and SMC Takumar screw-mount lenses can be attached to your Pentax LX by using the
Pentax Mount Adaptor K. When using this accessory, however, the automatic diaphragm of the lens will
no longer function and meter readings must be made with the lens aperture stopped down.
Mounting The Adaptor
After attaching the Adaptor K to the lens until it seats firmly in place, align the red dot on the Adaptor
with the red dot on the camera's lens mount. Insert the lens and rotate the adaptor/lens combination
clockwise about 1/4 turn until in clicks into place. The Mount Adaptor K is now fully engaged and screw-
mount lenses can be interchanged freely without further adjustments.
Removing The Adaptor
After removing the lens, press the adaptor release (A) with your thumbnail or a pointed object such as a
ballpoint pen. Turn the Mount Adaptor K counter-clockwise until you feel it release and remove it from
the lens mount. Please note that the lens release button (B) serves no function when using this adaptor.
(Webmaster: Only purchase an original Pentax adapter. I have heard of stores of the adapter getting stuck on the body or lenses getting stuck
on the body by cheap copies.)
MAINTAINING THE CAMERA
·Always keep the viewfinder eyepiece, finder-surface, lens and filters as clean as possible. Remove loose dust and dirt by first using a lens blower
and then brushing gently with a camel's hair lens brush. Avoid scratching optical surfaces by trying to wipe away granular dust or grit. Smudges and
fingerprint marks should be carefully wiped off using lens tissue or a clean soft cloth. A clean, previously-washed plain handkerchief is particularly
good for this purpose. In extreme cases, use a good quality lens cleaning fluid to remove stubborn smudges.
·Never touch the mirror or the shutter curtain, particularly when changing the interchangeable focusing screen. When changing screens, use the
pincette as described on page 48. Minor dirt or spots on the mirror will not affect the clarity of your photos.
·Whenever possible, carry your camera with its neck strap or in a carrying case or gadget bag. Accidentally dropping the camera can cause serious
damage in the internal mechanisms.View original page 16Page 17 · Read text
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·Be particularly careful not to drop the finder when changing viewfinder models. Slide the finder back slowly to avoid damage to the optical surfaces.
·Although your LX has specially-designed gaskets to minimize the possibility of damage from moisture, it is not waterproof. Several places exist
where water can get inside and damage internal mechanisms. Protect both the camera body and lens from rain or splashing water. If the camera
should get wet, dry it off immediately when a clean soft cloth. If it becomes submerged in salt water, place it in a pail of fresh water to retard the
onset of corrosion and take it immediately to a Pentax Service Center to determine if repairs can be effected.
·The automatic shutter of the LX will operate over a temperature range of 50°C (1 22°F) to -20°C (-4OF), and the mechanical shutter will function
from 50°C (122°F) to -30°C (-22°F). To assure reliable operation of the automatic shutter in low temperatures carry spare batteries.
·Always store your camera in a cool, dry, clean and well-ventilated place when it is not in use to avoid the possibility of damage due to condensation
buildup. This is particularly important in areas of high humidity. Keep the camera in its case or in a gadget bag with the lens cap on as added
protection. Condensation also builds up when bringing the camera into a warm room from the extreme cold, or vice versa. This can be prevented by
immediately placing the camera in it's case, bag or wrapping so that temperature changes gradually.
USING THE SELF-TIMER/DEPTH OF FIELD PREVIEW/MIRROR LOCK
Your Pentax LX features a Multi-Function Lever which is used to operate the self-timer, preview
depth of field and lock up the mirror. The lever operates as follows:
Self-Timer
The LX self-timer provides a variable 4 to 10 second delay of the shutter release. Press the lever
release button and turn the multi-function lever counter-clockwise to set the timer delay. After
making sure the shutter is wound, press the shutter release button to activate the timer run. The
timer can be cancelled before the start of its run by returning the lever to its original position. Once
you press the shutter release button, it can no longer be cancelled.View original page 17Page 18 · Read text
Depth of Field Preview To preview depth of field, move the multi-function lever clockwise towards the lens mount. The lens diaphragm will then stop down to shooting aperture allowing you to see the area of acceptable sharpness in the camera viewfinder. Mirror Lock The mirror of the LX can be locked up to minimize vibration in close-up and photomacrography by simply pressing the lever release button and moving the multi-function lever clockwise towards the lens mount. It is not necessary to lock up the mirror for motor drive photography. To release the mirror lock, press the lever release button again.View original page 18
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MULTIPLE EXPOSURES
Your Pentax LX allows you to make multiple exposures quickly and easily. After
taking the first exposure, simply press the film rewind/multiple exposure button at
the base of the camera to disengage the film transport mechanism and exposure
counter. Advance the rapid wind lever to wind the shutter, adjust the exposure as
required and press the shutter release to take the second exposure: Press the
rewind/multiple exposure button once again for each additional exposure on the
same frame.
The random access feature of the LX camera's two way exposure counter enables you to produce multiple exposures on any frame as long as the film
has not been wound off the take-up spool. As an example, let's say after reaching frame 15 you decide to double expose the image on frame 10. To do
so:
1. Push the film rewind/multiple exposure button.
2. Lift the film rewind crank and wind the film back until the 9 index appears in the exposure counter window.
3. Cover the lens with the lens cap, advance the rapid wind lever, set the shutter dial to a manual speed to avoid long exposures and press the shutter
release button.
4. Advance the rapid wind lever until the "10" appears in the exposure counter window and make the second exposure.View original page 19Page 20 · Read text
If you wish to make double exposures on the remaining frames, or again on
the same frame, you must press the film rewind/multiple exposure button
once again for each additional exposure. To return to the original frame
without exposing the images already on film, cover the lens with the lens
cap and advance the rapid wind lever until the 15 index appears in the
exposure counter window. You will return to the original position on the
frame within a 0.2mm tolerance.
USING A TRIPOD/TIME EXPOSURE AT "B"
Using a Tripod
The tripod socket at the base of the LX camera is designed to accept standard tripod
threads having a depth no greater than 5.5mm (0.22 in.). To prevent any possibility
of damage to the camera's internal mechanisms, do not use tripods with longer
mounting screws and always avoid over tightening.
Tripod Spacer
To ensure proper tripod mounting when using lenses having a large diameter, insert
the Spacer Ring which comes packed with the camera between the camera base and
tripod platform.
Time Exposures at "B"
Although time exposures are possible in both the automatic and manual mode, use
the "B" (Bulb) shutter speed setting to make long exposures in extremely low light
levels for special creative effects. At this setting the shutter remains open as long as
the shutter release button is depressed. When shooting at "B." always mount your
camera to a tripod or other stable support and use a cable release whenever possible
to minimize camera vibration. For exposures longer than several minutes, a locking
cable release is recommended.View original page 20Page 21 · Read text
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INFRARED PHOTOGRAPHY
Because black & white infrared film records light rays which focus differently
than light in the visible spectrum, when shooting it is necessary to adjust the
focusing ring accordingly. After focusing normally on the subject, note the subject-
camera distance on the lens distance scale and turn the focusing ring until that
distance setting aligns with the orange infrared index mark.
In the top photo, the lens is focused at infinity (00) for normal photography; in the
bottom photo it has been adjusted for infrared photography by moving the infinity
mark to the orange infrared index.
NOTE: Compensation is not required when using infrared color films.
If you wish to try IR photography, go digital. There are B&W and color IR
abilities with digital cameras.
DEPTH OF FIELD SCALES
Depth of field is the area in acceptable sharpness in front of and behind the subject in focus at a particular f/stop setting. Depth of field can be
checked visibly by activating the depth-of-field preview while looking through the camera viewfinder. If more precise information is required,
however, the depth of field scales engraved on most camera lenses provide a convenient means of determining the approximate distances.View original page 21Page 22 · Read text
The numbers engraved on either side of the depth of field scale represent f/stops. To read the scale, look at the distance scale of the lens opposite the index marks on the depth of field scale representing the f/stop set on the aperture ring. For example, in the photograph the lens is focused on a subject 5 meters away. At f/4 the depth of field is from approximately 4 to 7 meters. At f/5.6, the depth would be increased from approximately 3.6 meters to 7.9 meters. DEPTH OF FIELD TABLES .View original page 22
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SHOOTING WITH TTL INTEGRATED AUTOMATIC FLASH UNIT
When used with the Pentax AF-280T, AF-400T and AF-080C Ring Light Automatic Electronic
Flash models, your Pentax LX provides the ultimate in electronic flash versatility. Because these
units offer fully integrated operation with your camera's IDM through-the-lens light measurement
system, the camera meter reads both ambient lighting and electronic flash to assure proper
exposure of any subject within the unit's operating range, regardless of the aperture set on the lens.
In addition, the integrated metering system allows the non-flash automatic exposure system to
override flash when flash exposure is not needed to eliminate flash exposure failures even in
changing lighting conditions.
The integrated flash operation with the LX also eliminates the need for exposure compensation
when using filters or close-up accessories. With the AF-280T and AF-400T it allows you to take
full advantage of bounce flash capabilities while retaining through-the-lens flash control, and with
the AF-080C through the lens metering enables unprecedented convenience for close-up work and
macrophotography.View original page 23Page 24 · Read text
Auto Flash Synch/Viewfinder Ready Light
After making the proper connection for flash operation (i.e., by attaching the AF-280T to the
LX hotshoe, the AF-080C Control Pack to the hotshoe, or the 4P Synch Cord for the AF400T
to the X synch terminal on the camera body), set the flash unit for TTL AUTO operation and
leave the camera's shutter dial set for "Automatic". After you switch the flash on, the camera
will automatically synchronize the shutter speed at "X" (1 /75th second) for flash and illuminate
the viewfinder LED at "X" as a visible ready light.
Viewfinder Flash Exposure Confirmation
When using any of the three TTL flash units on TTL Auto, a signal is given right inside the
viewfinder after the photo is taken to confirm that the subject received adequate flash exposure.
After a properly exposed photo, the red "X" LED flickers on and off. For action photography
with flash, the viewfinder exposure check can be turned off by a switch on the back of the flash
unit.
The chart on page 40 summarizes the dedicated flash features of these three units with the LX.
For additional operating instructions refer to the instruction manual accompanying your flash
unit.View original page 24Page 25 · Read text
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"DEDICATED" AUTOMATIC AUTOMATIC FLASH UNITS
The Pentax AF-200S and AF-160 Automatic Electronic Flash Units are fully compatible with the LX
camera's automatic shutter speed flash synchronization and viewfinder flash ready light features.
When the flash unit is turned "ON" with the camera's shutter dial set at "Automatic" and the flash unit
set for auto flash operation, the shutter automatically synchronizes at "X" (1/75th second) and the "X"
indicator inside the viewfinder glows when the flash unit reaches full charge.
NOTE: Dedicated flash is also offered with the above two units with the shutter dial set to "X." The
AF-200S also features flash exposure override. When the viewfinder indication for the camera's
metering system is between 1/30th second and 4 seconds (occasionally 1/60th second, due to stepless
metering) flash synchronization is automatically obtained; when faster speeds are indicated, however,
non-flash exposure system overrides flash, preventing overexposure. (This feature is not offered with
the AF-1 60).View original page 25Page 26 · Read text
OTHER FLASH UNITS
Your LX camera is designed to accept a wide array of flash models using either the built-in hotshoe of
the standard FA-1 Viewfinder or the synchronization terminals at the front of the camera body. The
"X" terminal is for synchronization of electronic flash or F-type and MF-type bulbs; the "FP" terminal
for synchronization with focal plane bulbs. The LX system offers you the unique option of
synchronization even with non-dedicated electronic flash units with the shutter dial set at "Automatic."
In addition, manual speeds from "X" through "B" may be used. On "Automatic" the synchronization
range is between 1/30th second and 4 seconds. Do not use "Automatic" for flash when the viewfinder
indicates a faster speed or the complete frame will not be exposed; be sure to take precaution against
picture blur when long exposures are indicated.
The chart below represents the usable synchronizations with both electronic flash and bulb-type flash
units.View original page 26From the M. Butkus Camera Manual Library. Original publisher and archive notices are retained.
Check the model and edition against your equipment.
PDF verified 2026-10-10.