The PZ-1p's User-Set Function

The PZ-1p's User Position

The PZ-1p's main switch has a middle position (between ON and OFF) labeled 'user'. This is called the User Position. When the PZ-1p comes out from the factory, setting the main switch to the User Position will activate the following settings: matrix metering, program mode, single frame advance, and PCV signal on. These settings may be changed to the preferred settings of the user depending on his requirements and stored in the PZ-1p's memory. Thereafter, everytime the main switch is set to the User Position, the preferred settings are automatically recalled. The settings will not be inadvertently changed unless the main switch is moved off 'user'.

Some consider the User Position a useless function. Other camera bodies, however, have more than one User Positions. Personally, I prefer a camera with at least three User Positions. The first User Position will be set to my preferred settings when handholding and relying solely on the camera's meter (hyperprogram). The second User Position will be set to preferred settings when handholding but retaining more control over exposure (aperture priority). The third User Position will be set to preferred settings when using a tripod (2-second timer mode and hypermanual).

But although the PZ-1p has only one User Position, all is not lost. What I do is set the User Position to my preferred settings when using a tripod, i.e., center-weighted metering, 2-second timer, and hypermanual.

I prefer center-weighted metering mode because it's more predictable. It is easier to determine when to overexpose and when to underexpose. Hypermanual is the PZ-1p's most versatile exposure mode. The excellent bar graph shows the exposure value in 1/3-stop increments. A push of the IF button instantaneously sets the camera's recommended exposure value. Depressing the ML button then allows the user to vary the aperture or shutter speed while maintaining the same exposure value. Finally, the 2-second timer incorporates a mirror pre-fire. The mirror locks up the moment the shutter release button is depressed but the shutter actually trips two seconds later after vibration dies down. These settings therefore allow the most creative control and insure the sharpest results.

So what do I do if I suddenly need to shoot handheld?

I always keep the camera on center-weighted metering mode, hyperprogram mode, and four frames per second drive mode. So I get these settings everytime I move the main switch to ON. The hyperprogram mode is shiftable, i.e., the exposure mode shifts to aperture priority when the AV dial is turned or to shutter priority when the TV dial is turned. The camera reverts to program AE when the IF button is depressed. Also, at hyperprogram mode, aperture priority may be selected by moving the aperture ring off the "A" position.

Inputting the Preferred Settings

So how does one enter his preferred settings into the PZ-1p's memory? Here's how.

First, move the main switch to ON.
Select the preferred settings. My preferred settings are those I use when shooting with a tripod, which means center-weighted metering, 2-second timer, and hypermanual.
Set the mode dial to PF and, while holding down the mode set button, depress the ML button for two seconds or until ML and US appear on the LCD panel.

To revert to the default settings: move the main switch to 'user' and set the mode dial to PF. While holding down the mode set button, depress the IF button for two seconds or until CL and US appear on the LCD panel. Note that if the main switch is at 'on' instead of 'user', the Pentax Functions will revert to default settings.

You are my th visitor.