The Pentax IQZoom 28-W is a snapshot camera. It was presented by Pentax in the 90s. This camera was also introduced as a date model with an option for imprinting the shooting date. The 35mm photo camera was also sold under the name “Pentax Espio W“.
A fixed lens is installed in the 35 mm camera. A zoom lens with a range of 28 mm – 56 mm was developed. The maximum aperture is f/4.5 (28 mm) or f/5.6 (56 mm). The camera is equipped with an autofocus. The closest focusing distance is 150 cm.
The Pentax IQZoom 28-W has a built-in light meter. The light meter is built for films with a sensitivity of ISO 25 to ISO 3200. The 35mm camera determines the correct film speed using the DX code.
The camera has various exposure modes. For long exposures there is a bulb mode. The maximum shutter speed in this mode is 10 minutes.
The built-in flash provides sufficient light. At ISO 100 the range is 0.5 meters – 2.5 meters. The camera has a built-in self-timer and a thread for a tripod.
The dimensions of the Pentax IQZoom 28-W are 12,5 x 6,9 x 4 cm. It brings 265 grams on the scales. The camera needs one CR 123A battery (eBay / Amazon*).
Films for the Pentax IQZoom 28-W
For taking pictures with the Pentax IQZoom 28-W, 35mm films are needed. For this film format, there is still a good selection of material for color and black and white images. One way to get color images is the Fujifilm Superia 400* and the Ilford HP5* for black-and-white photos.
The color film is processed in the C-41 process. The C-41 process is offered by almost every photo lab. The negatives of Pentax IQZoom 28-W are 24 mm x 36 mm big. The film is automatically transported by the camera.
The Pentax IQZoom 28-W is no longer in production. The prices for the 35mm camera differ depending on the condition. The value of one copy is usually a few Euros.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Snapshot camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 28 mm - 56 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/4.5 |
| Minimum focus distance | 150 cm / 4.92 ft |
| Zoom function | Yes |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Exposure times | 1/300 second to 1/4 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 3200 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic |
| Exposure compensation | ± 1.5EV |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Panorama function | Yes |
| Flash | Integrated flash |
| Flash range | 0,5 to 2,5 Meter / 1.64 to 8.2 Feet |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes |
| Power supply | 1x CR123A battery |
| Size | 12,5 x 6,9 x 4 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 4.92 x 2.72 x 1.57 inches |
| Weight | 265 Grams |
FAQ about the Pentax IQZoom 28-W
What kind of film does this camera use?
This camera, the Pentax IQZoom 28-W, uses 35mm film. This is a very common type of film that is still produced today, so you should be able to find it easily. The camera automatically advances the film after each shot.
Does this camera have a zoom, or is it just one fixed lens?
Yes, the Pentax IQZoom 28-W has a zoom lens. The focal length range is from 28mm to 56mm, allowing you to zoom in and out. The lens is built into the camera, meaning you cannot change lenses on this model.
How close can I get to a subject when taking a picture with this snapshot camera?
The closest distance you can get to a subject and still have it in focus with this camera is 150 cm. This is also known as the minimum focusing distance, so don't get too close to your subject!
Can I use this camera in dark places, or does it need a lot of light?
The camera has a built-in flash that can help in low-light situations. The flash range is 0.5 meters to 2.5 meters when using ISO 100 film. Also it has a bulb mode for long-term exposure.
How heavy is the device and how big is it?
According to the manual, it weighs about 265 grams. The device is 12.5cm wide, 6.9cm high and 4cm deep. It is powered by a CR123A battery.