A specialized, ultra-wide angle zoom, the Pentax HD 15-30mm f/2.8 ED SDM WR Lensfrom Pentax HD 15-30mm f/2.8 ED SDM WR Lensoffers full-frame shooters an excellent f/2.8 constant aperture to allow for exceptional control over depth of field and the ability to work in low-light conditions. It uses ED glass elements to reduce aberrations and features an HD multi-layer coating to limit flare and ghosting. Operation is fast, with a Supersonic Direct-Drive Motor (SDM) for autofocus and it has a Quick-Shift focus system for switching between auto and manual focusing. And, it can focus down to 11" for convenience.

Ensuring optimal performance on Pentax DSLRs, the lens is fully dust- and weather-resistant with eight seals to protect from intrusion. This is assisted by the use of a Super Protect coating on the bulbous front element as well as an integrated lens hood for minimal damage in case of an accident. Additionally, it has a 9-bladed rounded diaphragm for smooth out-of-focus elements.

K-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format    Aperture Range: f/2.8 to f/22    ED Glass Elements    Super Protect & HD Multi-Layer Coatings    Supersonic Direct-Drive AF Motor    Quick-Shift Focus System    Minimum Focus Distance: 11"    Dust- and Weather-Resistant Design    9-Blade Rounded Diaphragm    Integrated Lens Hood

Covering ultra-wide to wide-angle perspectives, this 15-30mm zoom offers a unique option for full-frame K-mount Pentax DSLRs and is also compatible with APS-C models, where it will provide a 23-46mm equivalent focal length range.

Constant f/2.8 maximum aperture maintains consistent performance throughout the zoom range and also contributes to greater selective focus control.

ED glass elements are featured in the lens design and help to control chromatic aberrations and reduce color fringing for increased clarity and color fidelity.

The High Definition (HD) multi-layer coating is utilized to reduce reflections, flare, and ghosting for improved contrast and color in more trying lighting conditions.

Super Protect coating and integrated lens hood help keep the optics safe in the event of accidental impact or when it comes in contact with water or dust.

Supersonic Direct-Drive Motor (SDM) ensures fast, quiet, and smoother autofocus operation.

A rounded nine-blade diaphragm contributes to a pleasing bokeh quality when employing shallow depth of field techniques. It is completely rounded between f/2.8-4 when at 15mm and between f/2.8-5.6 when at 30mm.

A weather-resistant design features eight seals which better permit working in inclement conditions.

Related Questions and Answers

Q: 1. is this lens compatible with the 645Z?

A: As far as I know,this lens is for full frame 35mm. The 645Z requires a lens that covers a much bigger image. I see that a suggestion for a lens made to be used with the 645Z has been made.

Q: 2. Is the aperture locked in at f2.8 on this lens?

A: This lens has a aperture range of F/2.8 to F/22. The aperture will vary in auto mode depending on what you're camera decides is appropriate for the shot. You can use manual or aperture priority mode to lock in at F/2.8 if that's what you choose. It will stay there until you choose a different aperture setting. If you are at F/2.8 it will stay there through the 24-70mm range as long as you are in the aperture priority or manual mode. It can be manually adjusted to any aperture setting within the F/2.8 to F/22 range.

Q: 3. Who makes this lens?

A: The Pentax HD PENTAX-D FA 15-30mm f/2.8 ED SDM WR Lens is manufactured by Pentax.

Q: 4. Does the supplied hood for this lens feature the usual cutout to adjust filters like other Pentax lenses?

A: Absolutely, it's a fine lens. It's my everyday lens.

Q: 5. Can you tell me who makes this lens for Pentax?

A: It has the same optical properties and dimensions as the Tamron 70-210mm f4 lens so it is probably made by Tamron. However, since Pentax has their name on the lens, it is essentially made by Pentax and warranted by Pentax.

Q: 6. Is this an internal focusing lens?

A: It is. And pretty much spot - on. It is my day to day workhorse for Real Estate Photography.

Q: 7. Is this lens only for the K1 or can it be used on a k3?

A: This is a full frame lens that can be used on a K3. However, please realize that it will be cropped on the K3 (1.53 crop factor) resulting in a 35mm equivalent field of view of 36.7 - 107.1, so it becomes a wide normal to short telephoto zoom.

Q: 8. Is this lens compatible with the Pentax K20 D?

A: I think it would work (it works on my K3 II), but it wouldn't be my recommendation. This lens is intended for a full sensor camera, such as the K1. For the K20D, you would be better off with the Pentax DA* 16-50mm F/2.8. It's a great lens, which is intended specifically for crop sensor cameras. It's a better lens for the K20D and will save you some money.

Q: 9. Could I use this lens on my K1000? i know it's an old manual focus film camera but I think this zoom would be nice for it lol

A: You could but there is no aperture on the lens, so you will not be able to control exposure.

Q: 10. Can this be used on crop-sensor or only ff?

A: Any Pentax lens will work on a crop sensor camera.