Street photography enthusiasts may find significant advancements in the Ricoh GR IV, as initial sample images suggest.
The photography world is abuzz with anticipation as Ricoh prepares to release its latest offering, the Ricoh GR IV. This premium compact camera, designed specifically for street photographers, boasts several key improvements and features that set it apart from its predecessor.
Key Features of the Ricoh GR IV
- 25.74MP APS-C CMOS sensor: The new sensor provides high-resolution images (6192 x 4128 output size), enhancing image detail and offering improved performance in low-light conditions.
- 18.3mm f/2.8 lens: The new lens, equivalent to 28mm in full frame terms, features 7 elements in 5 groups including aspherical and low-dispersion glass lenses, delivering sharper images with better correction of aberrations across the frame and a slimmer lens profile.
- 5-axis image stabilization: The new stabilization system, an upgrade from the earlier 3-axis system, aids hand-held shooting in street scenarios, keeping static details crisp while naturally blurring motion.
- Snap Distance Priority Mode: This new feature enables manual control of focus distance and depth of field intuitively via dials, emulating Ricoh’s famous zone focusing style favoured for street photography.
- Faster autofocus and startup time: Thanks to a new lens barrel mechanism, the GR IV boasts faster autofocus and startup times, enhancing readiness for quick shooting moments.
- Expanded ISO range: The new camera features an expanded ISO range up to 204,800, doubling the maximum sensitivity of the previous model, supporting better low-light shooting conditions.
- Improved battery and storage: The GR IV offers significantly larger internal storage at 53GB plus a microSD card slot, reducing reliance on external cards during continuous shooting sessions. The improved battery provides about 25% longer life, rated for approximately 250 shots per charge.
- Full 3.0-inch 1.04M-dot touchscreen LCD: The new display offers improved UI and auto-brightness adjustment for better usability outdoors and quick menu navigation.
- Compact and lighter build: The body is 2mm thinner and slightly shorter in height than the GR III, weighing 262g with battery and card, making it pocketable and discrete.
- Improved connectivity: The GR IV features dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) allowing faster and more stable wireless image transfer.
- New film simulation and movie mode with grain effect: These additions provide creative options for street photography and video capture.
A Versatile Tool for Street Photography
While the Ricoh GR IV is renowned for its monochrome rendering, it remains a versatile tool for nuanced colour work. Sample images shared on social media channels showcase the camera's ability to capture crisp detail and vibrant, balanced colours, even in macro mode.
As the release date for the Ricoh GR IV draws near, the excitement among photographers continues to grow. This compact, yet powerful camera promises to deliver a premium, pocketable solution tailored to street photographers who value quick operation, image quality, and portability in a fixed-lens compact system.
[1] Ricoh GR IV Official Website
[2] DPReview - Ricoh GR IV Preview
[3] Photography Blog - Ricoh GR IV Preview
[4] Cameralabs - Ricoh GR IV Preview
[5] PetaPixel - Ricoh GR IV Preview
