Today I’m talking about the Pentax 17—aka the first newly released film camera from Pentax in 17 years—and why I’ve actually been enjoying it as a wedding companion camera. I’ve been shooting it since “November-ish,” and you’re going to see a lot of real wedding photos because that’s what I primarily shoot: engagements, portraits, details, flash stuff, and all the little in-between moments. I break down the feel and controls, why I mostly keep it on Auto (seriously, it’s amazing), and how the half-frame format gives you 72 exposures on a 36-exp roll—which is both thrilling and a little dangerous for overshooting. I also talk through the practical stuff: it needs a battery to function (learned that the hard way), the blinking light system that tells you when you’re doing something wrong, and how naturally it flips between portrait/landscape orientation. The 25mm lens (37mm equivalent) surprised me with sharpness, and I show how that wide perspective can be really fun for wedding storytelling. Finally, I’m honest about the downsides: it can feel dinky/toy-like, I didn’t always compose as thoughtfully, and I wouldn’t trust it for “prized moments.” But for candids, guest shots, and weird/fun film stocks (plus black and white on a wedding day), the mighty and meek Pentax 17 has earned a spot in my bag.