If you’re looking for good-value, then Pentax provides a viable alternative to the big two of Canon and Nikon. The 12.4-megapixel K-r follows on from the entry-level K-x and sits just below the K-5 and K-7 enthusiast models in Pentax’s range. This means that it incorporates some grown-up features while remaining easy to use and approachable – being of a similar ilk in that respect to Nikon’s D3100 and Sony’s A33. Lightweight, if not quite as compact as it might be, the K-r has a slot for its rechargeable battery and space for four AA batteries, as a backup.

Flick the on/off switch that encircles the shutter release button and you’re ready for action almost instantaneously. Our review unit came with a reasonably sharp 18-55mm zoom lens, the usual jack-of-all-trades option. Unlike the Nikon, the K-r has anti-shake built into the body, so any lens attached becomes immediately stabilised to protect against hand wobble at longer focal lengths and when shooting in lower lighting. As regards the latter, the K-r also has the advantage of a top ISO26500 setting, the kind of specification more usually seen on semi-professional cameras.

Although the K-r can shoot 1,280 x 720 pixels video clips, there’s no dedicated button for it – you have to first select the Movie feature via the 13-option mode dial – nor, unusually, is HDMI output provided for hooking up the camera directly to a TV. There is a dedicated Live View button at the back. This allows the camera’s 3in, high-resolution LCD to be used to compose shots and check focus rather than just display function information. This automatically switches on with a half press of the shutter release button should you already have video mode activated.

For stills shooting, the most prominent setting is Auto Picture mode, which allows the K-r to be used as a point-and-shoot camera, albeit one with a bigger sensor and better lens. Thanks to an accurate 11-point auto focus system, it’s lightning quick to determine focus and exposure and, apart from an adjustment for brightness and contrast, results straight from the camera are impressive. Pictures with real depth, colours that truly pop and even exposures are the order of the day. Even beginners have the potential to take stunning shots with this camera.