Pentax ME + 50mm f/1.7: The Classic Film Kit

Why this Pentax ME + 50mm f/1.7 kit matters in 2025

The Pentax ME 50mm f/1.7 pairing remains one of the most elegant ways to step into film photography. Its compact build, intuitive controls, and bright standard lens make it both accessible to beginners and inspiring for experienced shooters. Unlike purely mechanical cameras, the ME embraces aperture-priority automation, letting you focus on composition while the camera sets the shutter speed.

The included SMC Pentax-M 50mm f/1.7 lens balances sharp rendering with a smooth focus throw. Together, they form a kit that bridges tactile film shooting with modern workflows—thanks to the adaptable K‑mount lens.

Importantly, the Pentax ME still provides a mechanical 1/100s backup shutter speed, so it won’t leave you stranded if your batteries run down mid-roll. That safety net makes it a reliable compact companion on day trips or long travels.

Key technical highlights at a glance

• Exposure: Aperture Priority AE. You choose the f-stop, the camera automatically picks a shutter speed from 8 seconds to 1/1000s.
• Backup: A mechanical 1/100s (“100x” setting) works with or without batteries.
• Power: Two SR44 (preferred) or LR44 button cells power the meter and LEDs.
• Lens: SMC Pentax‑M 50mm f/1.7 — compact, multi‑coated, and fast with smooth manual focus.
• Mount: K‑mount bayonet, easily adapted to many modern mirrorless systems.

How it shoots: real‑world uses for this kit

The ME with the 50/1.7 is not just a technical tool—it’s a versatile creative companion. Here’s how it shines:

Street and travel

Lightweight and discreet, its aperture-priority mode lets you work quickly and fluidly in changing light. Perfect for walkaround shooting during travel.

Portraits

At f/1.7–f/2.8, the lens creates strong subject separation with gentle background blur. The rendering is classic, soft-edged, and very human.

Low light

Film has its limits, but a fast 50mm lens at f/1.7 extends what’s possible without pushing into higher ISO emulsions.

Hybrid workflow

Adapt the Pentax-M 50mm f/1.7 to a mirrorless camera to get a feel for its bokeh and focusing behavior, then shoot the same lens on film to enjoy the tactile darkroom process.

I remember my first roll through the ME: a weekend walk with Kodak Gold 200. I set the lens at f/8, trusted the viewfinder LEDs, and let the camera handle the shutter. Later, I was surprised how well it captured subtle shadows in alleys I hadn’t even noticed at the time.

Practical examples to try today

• Daylight walk: Load Kodak Gold 200, set f/8, and let the ME effortlessly adjust your exposures.
• Portrait look: Open up to f/1.7 with a backlit subject, adding a lens hood to keep contrast intact.
• Forgiving start: Try Ilford HP5 (ISO 400) — its wide exposure latitude is perfect for learners.
• Digital test: Use a simple K‑to‑mirrorless adapter to explore focus distances before committing frames to film.

Second‑hand buying checklist: Pentax ME + 50/1.7

When buying second-hand, a careful inspection can ensure your kit performs smoothly:

• Shutter: In AE mode, point at bright/dark scenes—listen for variation between 8s and 1/1000s.
• Meter LEDs: Confirm red/green LEDs respond correctly to changes in light.
• Backup speed: Test the mechanical 1/100s on “100x” with and without batteries.
• Film advance: Check lever motion is smooth without grinding.
• Light seals/mirror foam: Inspect for sticky or crumbling foam; replacements are inexpensive.
• Viewfinder: A little dust is cosmetic, but clarity matters for focusing.
• Lens optics: Look for scratches, haze, or fungus; blades should be oil-free.
• Focus feel: Turn the ring through its range—resistance should be smooth and even.
• Power: Insert fresh SR44s to verify LED and shutter function.
• Documentation: Prefer examples described as tested, with working meter and shutter.

Setup and accessories for a smooth start

A smooth first experience depends on picking the right supporting gear:

• Batteries: Choose SR44 silver‑oxide cells—they hold voltage better than LR44.
• Film picks: Kodak Gold or Portra for color, Ilford HP5 for B&W, CineStill 800T for atmospheric night shots.
• Adapters: A simple K‑to‑mirrorless adapter extends your 50mm to digital video or stills.
• Carry: A slim strap and small bag will keep your kit comfortable for urban wandering.
• Lens hood: Essential for backlight situations, improving contrast and reducing flare.

Care and troubleshooting basics

Looking after this kit is simple but important:

• Replace deteriorated light seals and mirror foam—DIY kits are affordable and effective.
• Store lenses capped and in a dry place to avoid fungus or haze.
• If the meter isn’t working, always check new batteries and clean contacts first.
• Load film slowly and carefully to protect the leader and ensure smooth take‑up.

Wrap‑up: a timeless film kit with modern flexibility

The Pentax ME film camera paired with the Pentax 50mm 1.7 lens endures because it balances simplicity with capability. As an SLR film camera, it offers an approachable entry point for those curious about analog while still delivering inspiring results for seasoned photographers.

Whether you’re exploring analog cameras as a new creative outlet, or adding to your collection of camera lenses, this compact kit is worth a look. Shoot film for the tangible experience, or adapt the lens for digital play—the ME + 50/1.7 remains relevant across workflows.

Simple, reliable, and inspiring—especially when well‑checked second‑hand.