Ricoh's GR III and GR IIIx HDF Cameras Redefine Portable Photography
This is not a fast-fix digital effect; rather, the shutter unit's actual diffusion filter is triggered by a function button.
While the Fujifilm X100 VI is taking the world by storm, it's easy to overlook Ricoh's own renowned tiny camera. Pocket-sized "street" cameras featuring APS-C sensors, quick autofocus, and a devoted following include the Ricoh GR III (and GR IIIx).
Given that neither camera has an EVF and both have a fixed lens with a modest f/2.8 maximum aperture, not everyone is a fan. However, if you're looking for a big-sensor camera that you can fit into a jacket or trouser pocket, these are some of the best compact cameras available, and many people even consider them to be the best travel and street photography cameras.
The new cameras' term, HDF, stands for Highlight Diffusion Filter, and it refers to an actual optical filter that is included into the shutter unit. In contrast to these cameras' typical high-contrast, high-resolution rendering, it creates softened, spreading highlights when triggered, giving the image a softer, more romantic appearance.
The two GR III models can be used with this HDF version. The Ricoh GR IIIx replaces the fixed 28mm equivalent f/2.8 lens found on the regular Ricoh GR III with a 40mm equivalent f/2.8 lens. The idea is that you select the version that most closely matches your preferences and needs.
A unique gray/silver shutter button sets the new HDF versions apart from the standard GR III. There's an internal adjustment as well because the new HDF filter had to regrettably replace the original internal ND filter option.
Ricoh GR III HDF and GR IIIx HDF key features
• 18.3mm (28mm equivalent) f2.8 lens (GR III), 26.1mm (40mm equivalent) f2.8 lens (GR IIIx)
• 24.4MP АРЅ-С sensor
• Вuіlt-іn Ніghlіght Dіffuѕіоn Fіltеr with dеdісаtеd асtіоn buttоn
• Full HD movie recording (1920 x 1080 pixels, 60p)
• High-speed hybrid AF system
• 3-Axis Shake Reduction System, 4 ѕtорѕ compensation
• GR ЕNGІNЕ 6 processor
• Start-up time approx. 0.8 secs
• 3.0-inch 1,037k dоt touchscreen LCD
Technical Specifications:
| Features | Ricoh GR III | Ricoh GR IIIx |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 24.2MP CMOS | 24.2MP CMOS |
| Focal length / aperture | 18.3mm (Approx. 28mm in 35mm equivalent focal length), F2.8～F16 | 26.1mm (Approx. 40mm in 35mm equivalent focal length), F2.8～F16 |
| Lens construction | 6 elements in 4 groups (2 aspherical lens elements) | 7 elements in 5 groups (2 aspherical lens elements) |
| Screen | 3.0 inch TFT color LCD | 3.0 inch TFT color LCD |
| ISO sensitivity | 100 - 102,400 | 100 - 102,400 |
| Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift shake reduction (SR)(3-axis) | Sensor-shift shake reduction (SR)(3-axis) |
| Still image formats | RAW (DNG) 14bit, JPEG | RAW (DNG) 14bit, JPEG |
| Movie modes | MPEG4 AVC/H.264 (MOV), Full HD (1920x1080, 60p/30p/24p) | MPEG4 AVC/H.264 (MOV), Full HD (1920x1080, 60p/30p/24p) |
| Recording time | 25 mins or 4GB | 25 mins or 4GB |
| Internal memory | 2GB | 2GB |
| Focus type | Hybrid AF | Hybrid AF |
| Crop modes | 35mm, 50mm, OFF | 50mm, 71mm, OFF |
| Dimensions | 109.4(W)×61.9(H)×33.2(D)mm (excluding protrusions) | 109.4(W)×61.9(H)×35.2(D)mm |
| HDF | Yes | Yes |
| Weight (with battery and SD card) | 257g | 262g |
Cost and Availability of Ricoh GR III HDF and GR IIIx HDF
Both Ricoh GR III HDF and GR IIIx HDF are now available in India at Ricoh Pentax. For best price visit Ricoh Pentax.