Pentax K5
Great Ergonomics, sturdy built, yet small and relatively light. Includes on top in-body-image-stabilization.
You shouldn't underestimate the importance of ergonomics. I never read the manual because everything is in the exact right place. Operation is fast.
The image quality is exceptionally high and gives you plenty of headroom to mess around with the RAW files.
That's what counts: Good ergonomics, 100% viewfinder and great image quality.
The price tag for used ones is laughable low and makes this one essentially a no brainer for everyone. And I mean it.
You shouldn't underestimate the importance of ergonomics. I never read the manual because everything is in the exact right place. Operation is fast.
The image quality is exceptionally high and gives you plenty of headroom to mess around with the RAW files.
That's what counts: Good ergonomics, 100% viewfinder and great image quality.
The price tag for used ones is laughable low and makes this one essentially a no brainer for everyone. And I mean it.
Lenses
Pentax land has a holy trinity. The so called FA limited prime lenses. You have to toss a coin which one to use today. Clear recommendation for all three.
Quite expensive but you get what you pay for.
Quite expensive but you get what you pay for.
Father - FA31/1,8
I'll never part from my FA31. But you never know, maybe Pentax dies, or someone takes it from my cold dead hands or Leica makes cameras again. Nothing of that will happen the next couple of decades, I guess. Wouldn't mind if it were welded on my camera.
Son - FA43/1,9
This one get's you seriously addicted to the Pentax prime lenses. Don't buy it if you can't handle it! Since it is the most affordable of the limited lenses it is the starter drug. And it is so small! If you detach the lens hood it's basically a pancake size lens with breathtaking killer sharpness.
Holy Spirit - FA77/1,8
Leads the pack wide open. Very sharp right from the beginning. Couldn't believe it the first time! For me a special purpose lens since I prefer the shorter focal lengths. I sometimes stroll around and try to find exuses to exclusively shoot it wide open. Sounds like a screwdriver.
Stuff
Sniper Strap
That's a game changer. Never ever again issues with carrying around the camera for several hours. It releases the neck from stress and grants immediate availability of the camera for the next shot. It does not interfere with your hoody or your backpack.
Sirui Monopod
Of no use anymore due to the reliable in-body-image-stabilization.
Software
My choice is RawTherapee.