Pentax's later MZ SLR — the MZ-L, program and manual, built-in flash, KAF mount, 2001.
The Pentax MZ-L is a 35mm autofocus film SLR from 2001 and shares its design with the MZ-6, being the designation used alongside the ZX-L name in various markets. It was a later mid-range compact MZ-series body offering autofocus, program automation and scene programs. It uses the Pentax KAF autofocus mount and was marketed under the Pentax name.
It is a 35mm single-lens-reflex camera using the Pentax KAF autofocus mount, with through-the-lens metering and in-body autofocus. The electronically-timed vertical focal-plane shutter reaches a top speed of 1/2000. Exposure modes include program, aperture-priority, shutter-priority and manual, plus auto-picture scene programs for common subjects. Metering offers multi-segment and centre-weighted patterns. It has a built-in pop-up flash and motorised film advance, and is fully electronic and battery-dependent.
The MZ-L suits general users and improving amateurs wanting a light autofocus SLR with a built-in flash and a mix of automatic and manual modes for travel, family and portrait use. It accepts autofocus KAF lenses and older manual K-mount optics. Like the MZ-6 it emphasises program and scene automation while keeping aperture-priority and manual available for more deliberate work.
When buying used, check the foam light seals and mirror-damper foam. As an electronic autofocus body, confirm the LCD display is complete, autofocus works and the pop-up flash fires. The MZ series is prone to a plastic gear failing in the film-transport or mirror mechanism, so test the motorised advance and mirror carefully. Verify metering and all exposure modes, check the shutter for even exposure, and note the camera cannot operate without a good battery.