Pentax has unveiled an entry-level digital SLR that it hopes will persuade avid snappers to ditch their simplistic compact cameras in favour of more complex photography.

Pentax's K2000: basic DSLR snapping

To help photographers new to the world of DSLR snapping, Pentax has included several “easy-to-use” Auto Picture modes on the K2000, which should aid up-and-coming photographers in their selection of the best settings for each image.

A dedicated Help button also explains the camera’s current setting and guides the user through the basics of DSLR photography.

However, photographers will also find a mixture of features taken from compact cameras and DSLRs on the K2000. For example, shake reduction is present to rid you of blurry images, and Pentax has also thrown in a dust-removal system to keep particles away from the image sensor.

The 10.3-megapixel camera has a 2.7in LCD display and the obvious advantage of interchangeable lenses - it comes bundled with an 18-55mm lens.

Pentax’s K2000 will be available in the US from November, priced at $700 (£380/€480). A UK price or launch date hasn’t been given yet.