Gosh, I seem to have stirred the hornets nest with the Fuji users with one throwaway comment. Let me explain: when I say I find their files "muddy" what I mean is that I feel like there isn't the same colour accuracy and separation I get from the Ricoh, or my Sony RAW files for that matter. I have used the X100 and the X-T20 in the past and they are great cameras, but I always felt, even in the RAWS, that there was a slight "brown, desaturated wash" to the images. I believe Fuji intended this and are going after the photographers who want a "nostalgic, vintage" feel to their digital images straight out of camera, so they bake into the files. You either love it, or you don't. Personally it's not to my taste and I prefer "cleaner" files which is why the Ricoh's and Sony's are right for me (and no I'm not sponsored or affiliated with either company for the persistent conspiracy theorists among you:). But if you love the look of the Fuji files and the feel of their cameras good for you, genuinely. You don't need to justify it, or feel threatened because I shared my opinion. We all have subjective points of view and I respect yours. Enjoy your Fuji:)
Hey Sean, haven’t read the other comments and their tone (if indeed they give that impression) though must confess I was curious what you meant by that comment. The idea that the RAW files have something “baked” into them that you can’t get rid of or control however still leaves me puzzled (whatever anyone’s personal tastes may be). I know the X Series camera’s can share images with your phone only in JPEG (but not RAW AFAIK) and that might make processing them on the go with your phone limiting, and I always found the starting point for RAW processing Fuji images with Lightroom somewhat frustrating - but then all that changed when I started using Capture One, which can either give me accurate “Fuji” colours straight off the bat (unlike LR), or allow me to process the RAW files in whatever direction you want; though none of this would help you unless or until Fuji X Cameras have the ability to share RAW files directly with connected smartphones. If only Fuji listened to their customers and made changes … Uh, hang on, they’ve been doing that for years and made their reputation with the X Series off the back of that (LOL). When the produce an X100 with IBIS however I will definitely be in the queue to buy one. In all seriousness though Sean, have you tried any of the later X Trans 4 sensor Fuji X cameras since you moved away from using them? Would be curious to know if their additional flexibility to control the look of images in whatever direction you choose (as in cleaner or more analog, as well as colour shifts) made them more useful for you - For me it even got me thinking that for many images I can generate OOC JPegs that are almost the finished product, and can avoid most if not all further image processing steps and still get a signature look (certainly for posting online); now that was very though provoking for me, I can tell you. Anyway, food for thought …
In a couple of years of shooting mostly fuji, any issues with muddiness or inaccurate colors have been, in my experience, mostly down to either poor technique on my part, or the RAW processor I'm using. Lightroom doesn't do nearly as good of a job at processing Fuji files (and it's not just about their sharpening settings). Every image I've edited in Capture One looks significantly cleaner than the same image edited in Lightroom. I'd lay more at Adobe's feet than Fuji's in this regard. Anyway, there are marked differences between the newer and older generation of primes, and even the x-trans 3 and x-trans 4 sensors in terms of color rendering. That said, their latest lens releases, while really impressive sharpness-wise, are as expensive as mirrorless full frame lenses, and nearly the same size. If the size advantage of apsc is lost, I start feeling similarly to you: I could just be shooting with a Nikon Z6/7 for professional work, and keep a Ricoh or x100v in the bag for day-to-day stuff. Regardless, like you wrote below, we really are spoilt for choice. Looking forward to seeing what you make with your new tool, Sean!
The best part of this video had nothing to do with the gear but instead the decision making when to use 28mm (ie high contrast says) and when you don’t
I own a GR, realy quite old, and a GR3x, only a week also old, after watching this video. I keep them both, carry both, and as the GR3x is newer, and easier to use for people shots, I use it more. The depth of view point of view is valid for buying this new one.
I searching which photographer can share some artistic view on how ricoh gr3x can expand their creativity and make their job done. But for now, none of them. Until I found this video. Thank you Sean!
I had hoped for a GR with a standard focal length for some time, although I figured they would just make a converter. Thanks for using your voice to make it happen.
It can be a pro camera, it can be a casual shooter, it can be a starter camera…fits into pocket, you can for sure edit on phone, it is in many ways perfect companion…Wish I have a money to buy it.
I'm an intermediate level photographer - have used Canon 5dIII, now have OM1 as I was finding the Canon too heavy (I'm a bit elderly!) and downsized to the OM1 last year. I love it, shoot wildlife, birds and landscapes but now want to try something smaller again for street (new interest) and other stuff. I was going to get the Fujix100v, but they are now unavailable. Have been debating Ricoh GRIII and GRIIIx, which are also becoming a bit hard to find in Australia. I think this video has confirmed my thoughts about getting the GRIIIx when I can locate one. Thank you for you clear and comprehensive discussion and video.
I just today held a book report on "The meaning in the making" it was so much fun and I feel like it really resonated with my peers. Thank you for writing this book✨
I’ve never had a Ricoh but I would love to one day! This is good news for all of us as it will ensure even more beautiful photos from you for us to enjoy ❤️
Nearly every photo I've taken this year was shot at 40mm equivalent (27mm f2.8 Fuji lens). But it's mostly because going out for a walk with an Xe2s and a pancake lens during our ongoing strict lockdowns in my part of the world feels more reasonable as an allowable exercise outing than anything larger.
The 27mmf2 is my go-to travel lens, slap it on a XT1 or XPro3 and can walk around Paris or Toronto all day and you hardly know you have a camera on you. Maybe tuck the little X70 in my pocket in case I want to shoot a little wider. BTW I wish Fuji would update the XF10 with the new sensor but they seem to have abandoned their pocketable camera series in favor of the X100V and interchangeable lens cameras. Shame.
@@jimmason8502 yep. I'm seriously contemplating going back to Canon since I still have a couple of lenses, and only keeping one Fuji camera with this little lens and the kit lens. I mean, there are things I like about Fuji, but if Canon had gotten their act together with making good mirrorless cameras a lot sooner than they did I might have made different choices.
Really enjoying the book, well worth the wait from pre-order to delivery. "In-spiration doesn't strike as a feeling while you are sitting on the couch waiting for it. In-spiration most often strikes when you have already gotten yourself up and begun to create. On the hardest days, "making" has to begin with a rational choice."
man his so right about fuji and the brown being baked into the files, i use a XT1 and a rx100 iii ,, i didnt know this but i always liked the rx100 colors more then my fuji,, and now i come across this thing sean says ,, and im likeee whaaat ! so true !!
Fuji guy here, but I've heard great things about the GRs. My main issue with them is the lack of a view finder. When outside in bright sun, the rear display is tough. For me that is its biggest weakness.
So glad there's a company who knows who are really their customers. Most of the time, a company especially those who are publicly traded mostly focus on the profits they are going to give to shareholders instead of doing great service to those who actually uses their product.
I really enjoyed every GR I've owned. The best camera for one-handed operation by far. I just wish they would stop breaking or Ricoh would offer more reasonable repair costs.
Ricoh's UK after sales are hands down the worst I've ever encountered. One dealer who processes them in the UK. Astronomical prices for repairs, and cameras that are not particularly built to last. I dropped a gr3 less than a foot onto the ground , got a quote for repair just under £300.00 ( the camera was sent to Germany for repair) less than a week later I got an email saying they'd quoted wrong and wanted over £600.00 for the same repair. On a camera that cost £750? And they wanted £600.00 ? Let me put this into perspective. My Fuji x100 f was dropped by my daughter, Fuji replaced the lens and the electronic viewfinder for £125.00. no fuss, no problems quick repair. Ricoh have total disregard for the people who buy their products.
As a photographer for 55 years and computer user since 1983, I long ago decided to try my hardest not to support companies that disrespect their customers.
I had the 28mm but I lost it. So today I punched the 40mm as a replacement. Many of the points you raised I agree with so I’m delighted with this focal length. Just for the record I’ve bough a great big chain so I don’t loose it this time. So much for portability!
My first digital camera was a Canon SD1100, it had a zoom but I used mostly the initial focal of 38 mm, so my photographic eye adjusted to that. To have a 40 mm on a serious pocketable camera is a dream come true.
My photography started with a Canonet 28 that featured a lovely 40mm lens. It is a focal length I like, and with Ricoh providing it in a small camera, I just may go back to that focal length.
I'm ready for a Ricoh G4x: - 28-40mm zoom (GR3 & GR3 xcombined) - Included flash with built-in diffuser -Water and dust resistant - Video capability either improved or removed What do you all think?
I'm halfway through your book now. So far it's definitely a book that I will probably return to several times for a re-read. I feel like it will stand the test of time, and not feel dated.
I picked up the GR3x and couldn't be happier! Nice focal length and it produces wonderful files. Looking forward to seeing more of your work with the GR3x when your schedule allows.
Finally got my GRIIIx last weekend and got out to use the camera on Monday last. Spent a fair bit of time setting the camera settings up, before using it but it’s going to take uptime to finally find the settings that suits my street photography ‘style’. I made an assumption, wrongly, that it would overexpose images as most of the digital cameras I’ve owned do/did so I set it to underexpose by -1… but was I wrong as most (if not all) images were very much underexposed… lesson learnt. The other big difference experienced was with the focal length… having been a 50mm photographer for most of my adult life, and now working in 35mm with my X100v (I also owned the Fujifilm XF10 until September last year when I traded it in for the GRIIIX) & having been so used to working 28mm, I sometimes forgot I was now using a camera the shoots 40mm! So, when snapping a street image on the fly/from the hip, I tended to be a little too close for this lens. I wasn’t a big deal as the images were still usable but I’ll need to remember to shoot earlier than I did with the XF10.(by the way, there’s nothing wrong with the XF10, it’s a good wee street camera, dust not 35/40mm). Will you be doing a follow-up video on the GRIIIx anytime soon?
I carried a Canon 5D (classic) and a Canon 40mm f/2.8 STM as a compliment to a Ricoh GRDIV (the old small-sensor camera) on a trip to Washington DC many years ago and the 28+40 pairing was phenomenal. Such a fun way to explore a city with a "small" full frame on my shoulder and a wide-angle compact in my back pocket. Love your take on this.
This video is going to help Ricoh sell a ton of GR IIIx's. And, mind you, I mean this in a good way, not in a Sean-has-taken-to-peddle-gear way. Uplifting to see that some manufacturers still listen to their users. Ricoh may be a niche player in the industry, but with their Pentax K and Ricoh GR systems, they keep offering something that is quite unique.
I was just recently given an original 2013 GR and the 28mm focal length buggered me at first, but now I'm just adoring it. Thanks for all the great videos, and the book is just superb, I'm on my third read of it right now.
I recently purchased a 40mm f/2.5 lens for my camera. I agree it's a great split between the 35mm and 50mm focal lengths. Plus the reduced size and weight make for an easy to carry kit. It's become the lens most often attached to my camera.
Would be great if you did do a video on the GR3x once you have had a bit of time with it. Because you don’t do constant gear reviews, what you do say about the gear you use and how it fits in with your work is worth listening to.
Well put. My name is John .because of you I have decided to buy th gr 3x. I’ve alway loved street photographers. But never had the time. Last year I suffered a stroke and became paralysis d on the left side. Being wheelchair bound I’ve drcided to to put a different spin on street photography from a handy app person I the gr looks like the perfect camera as you can shoot single handed. Would you recommend any other camer or stick to the gr. Love you photos. Is your book available in audio as my vision isn’t that great. I need an escape from the daily boredom
I'm absolutely over the moon that they've brought out this 40mm equivalent. Like you, I much prefer a 35mm so I'm more excited for this than I was to get the original GRIII... EXCITING 😁❤
Well, Sean, now I understand your point about the 40mm focal and also the philosophy of the Ricoh GR system. After using only 85mm plus focal length lenses for years, I felt the need for a change in my photography. A change, not only in perspective but in my whole approach. I sold my full frame (a Canon 6D mk2) camera an most of my lenses and kept only my APSC EOS 800D. I bought Canon’s 24mm f2.8 STM pancake lens (about 38mm equivalent) and I tried to use it as my daily camera aside to my iPhone. It’s my I intermediate state before I invest in a GRIIIx or a GRIII. The process makes love photography again! I didn’t believe that the 40mm was so versatile focal. It’s too close to human cone of vision and that leads to a very familiar effect on photos. It’s even capable for some nice landscape shots. My second reason to go for a Ricoh has to do with the JPEG engine and the build in RAW editing capabilities. As much as I like Canon’s RAW files (I worked with them for a decade after all), their JPEGs are just trashy. I never managed to get them to my style even by tweaking the in camera profiles. And I want to shoot in JPEG for my daily snapshots. It’s time consuming and pointless to edit every single photo on Lightroom! From what I have seen, Ricoh has very pleasing JPEG files.
Thought about one of these, but I ended up with a RX100VII and a G5X II as they are more versatile for photo and video. To have these little cameras instead of my big Sony stuff, makes me feel free again. So I absolutely understand you and your love for the GR.
I like your content and it inspires me to do photography again. However, because of a tight budget, I can't afford gears as you use, is it possible that you can create content with budget cameras like a Nikon D3400? Always looking forward to watching your content.
Certain aspects of this video mirror me completely in that i find myself using the Gr3 far more than i ever envisaged and it gives me the freedom to wander into areas of the inner city that i may not otherwise walk. i am able to just leave it in my pocket and casually bring it out when i spot something without drawing attention to myself and indeed i have managed photos that i do not believe that i would have got with any other camera simply because i am so close to the action. i like the post card feel of the images as i try to focus on the scene rather than worry about photographic merit and as a retired professional tog it feels very liberating not to always chase the light - which i have done for years. Don't get me wrong there is still a need on some images for background separation and to focus on the subject and indeed only last week was in a camera store asking if they had a small fixed compact like the Ricoh that would do just that. They could only suggest a fuji or sony with a zoom neither of which felt right in my hands - and then literally on the very same day the 3x launch appeared on my facebook time line. You couldn't make it up.
I have found that where I'm shooting has the biggest impact on what focal length I feel comfortable with. In the midwest US, unless I'm downtown in one of the larger cities, I can't shoot comfortably with anything wider than 35mm. Those compositions don't come naturally to me. That's why I'm so excited to be getting the GR3x. I loved shooting on my Fuji X100, but it's 11 years old now, and it feels like it in terms of handling, and the X100V is too expensive to justify.
I share your sensor emotion. Great little camera. Using it as a small setup with just your phone is not a great experience at all. Unpredictable connection issues (iii works, iii x still not able to connect). Leica is the only brand that really has a great phone/camera integration and workflow experience. Since Ricoh hear your voice (like many of us ;) could you address this with them as well? Many thanks 👍🏼✨
Mine’s on preorder. Can’t wait. I can use 28mm but I’m always happier at around 35-50, and I have a 40 equivalent on m43 anyway. This is ideal. Also agree about Fuji images… never been a fan even after trying around 6 of their cameras.
Thanks, Sean. Great info and feedback on the new GR3x. I know you do not too often discuss gear, or do gear reviews - so your pov on this new camera carries more water in my view. I'm a long time GR user and the 28mm suits me very well in the way I shoot. It's very cinematic. With arms outreached, it actually frames more similar to a 35mm - unless you're holding it very close to your body, or from the hip. Regardless, your point is well taken and spot on in regards to when it's best used - bright days with plenty of contrast - I love using it when I can enable metering for highlights in full manual mode. It is such a stellar camera, with a lens that produces "magic".... it's no wonder it has such a long time cult following (I actually owned a film version 20 years ago). When you read out loud your note to Ricoh, all that you describe rang very true for me personally. It's on those overcast days when the light is more even that I tend to go to my main camera gear - which mostly has a 35mm or 50mm (equiv) prime that lives on it, or even a short standard zoom for everything else. But the Ricoh GR III is always with me, always. It probably makes up more than 70% of my daily "street" (visual journaling) shooting today (I've published 6 photo books, the last two are mostly made up of images I produced using the GR III, I'm now thinking of making just a GR focused street book next). I'm glad Ricoh has listened to users such as yourself and designed a new camera with this 40mm equiv lens implementation. It makes sense for those of us who cherish carrying minimal and light gear - and could very well be a sweet spot for better isolating subjects, as well as shooting on those bland and overcast days. I look forward to learning more about the camera - what you and others create from it. (This is the best channel on photography, for photographers, about photography - and I thank you graciously for it).
These cameras look ideal for me as an EDC but looking into the product in more detail they seem to be a rather fragile camera that is also prone to dust on the sensor. This really puts me off as they are rather unique with regards to image quality for the size. If i can't put it in my pocket ( dust) I may as well just use a small mirrorless with removable lenses. I also looked at the UK price for the x version, £900!! For that I expect durability and weather sealing.
Super helpful video. And side note, I absolutely love the color-rendering of this video. Wonder what camera was used to shoot ?! This video for sure helped me decide on purchasing the GRIIIx along with Samuel's videos!
I live in upstate New York where all days are typically overcast and tend to shoot my x100s/v with EVF because I’m lazy about exposure and it helps. I’m visiting now in sunny sunny Rome for a bit and the sun is BRIGHT. I had almost forgotten the optical view finder on the x100 and have been using it exclusively because I just can’t see the electronic options well enough to even frame my subjects. That is one feature of that camera and the X-Pro models that is really beautiful when you actually need it. I’ve also been dusting off my understanding of the exposure triangle. All that said the IIIx looks like a very nice camera.
This is so interesting. I loved the Sigma DP2 which had a 40mm focal length and I loved it. But that sensor could only handle the brightest of days outdoors. Would be really cool to rent and play with this for a day.
I've been getting the gospel of the Ricoh pro-results GR point & shoot tapped into my consciousness since the film days. But back when the likes of Contax and Minolta were still producing incredible film P&S, I never got around to the GR. Then digital came and with its possibilities, I continued to get sidetracked. I think this time, after more than 20 years since I first heard about this little piece of marvel, I'll pull the trigger. This video of yours has finally focused (pun unintended) my mind.
I completely understand the difficulty with 28mm. Right before Ricoh announced the GRIIIx, I decided to go for an X100V. It still stings a bit because I now see all those videos about the GR IIIx but in the end I still have my GR III and what I'm missing most - to be honest - is a viewfinder. I'm just not experienced enough to nail my compositions just by feel or taking a glance at an LCD screen. It's also nice to have a weather sealed camera. Still.... would love the GR IIIx, since my personal favourite focal length is 40mm :(
Currently there is a Leica rumor around that says the Leica Q3 will come with a 43mm option. I own a Leica Q and the 28mm has a stellar performance. Considering that it is not easy for the camera manufacturers to develop a lens that is delivering the same performance as the other option. And I mean not only sharpness, but also size and weight play a factor. I ordered a GR IIIx HDF and can't wait to play with it. that said, I can't wait what the future brings from a Leica perspective.
Having watched you use this in the field today, I can certainly vouch for the benefits of having both a very capable camera along with editing studio both in the same pocket as a means of shooting when you may not usually. This can only be of benefit to you and your skill set. The saying goes, the best camera is the one you have with you, and this is a camera you can have with you at any time. Fantastic piece of kit 👏🏼
I'm so thrilled for this camera. I, too, have been craving a high quality 40-50mm focal length snap shooter and it's finally here! Can't wait to pre-order
I got a Sony RX100 for similar reasons, I wanted something more portable and less noticeable when I'm out shooting. These high end point and shoots fill the need nicely and take some great shots.
I had the Sony RX100M7 and it was amazing. The viewfinder had an issue so I had to return it, but what does this camera provide over that one? They are about the same price, and the Sony is higher rated and has a 200 zoom to name a few. I use it only for travel and street photography. It fits in my pocket.
Great video, Sean, I keep on being tossed between the GrIII & the X. I can live with either 28 or 40 with the latter being my favourite but I can’t live with out of focus images. With the latest firmware of them both should I be concerned with the GRIIIX AF?
This rad!! I was shocked to see the announcement of this, and I'm stoked to hear that it is because Ricoh listened. Looking forward to seeing any further testing that you do. I've often wondered how the GR3 (and now especially the GR3x) would go with a run & gun OCF set up; perhaps just an AD100pro with a small umbrella or such, I thought it could be interesting for, well I have a bunch of ideas in my head. But just thought I'd throw it out there and perhaps it could be an interesting thing to test out. Thanks for your videos! Ah, and an edit... saw the portrait test images at the end, there you go. Thanks!
I'd also used at first my X100 1st gen. beside my DSLR. Now I'm impressed by my GR IIIx, because it's a very handy camera, quick start with, easy handling. According to her autofocus, it could better, sometime he's pumping. To avoid this, I choose sometimes a fix focal distance with a capture 4 oder 5.6. The smallest APS-C Kamera, it offers a realy good resolution and noise ratio up to iso 3200, higher iso will increase noise clear
Sean, Equally glad to see Ricoh introduce this camera and hope they will begin offering it for sale in the US. I’ve always found the 40mm focal length my favorite choice for a “one focal length” option.
28mm felt right for Ricoh to put on their GR's because they are Japanese and 28mm is the perfect for big crowded Japanese cities like Tokyo, where you can capture so many subjects upclose, but there are more street photographers in the world, not all living in big cities and for me 28mm is a very challenging focal length, especially now with Covid, 40mm seems the perfect compromise between 35 and 50mm.
And great to see you talking about The Meaning in the Making. You’ve done a terrific job with the book, the writing is great and its a lovely aesthetic feel as a book. Love my copy
Same mate. I’ve been clinging to my 6D + 40mm pancake lens from Canon. Every time I try to research if there’s an equivalent out there, I can’t find anything. I can buy mirrorless but they don’t have a pancake 40mm. This Ricoh is the answer! So glad they went with this focal
@@CommeDesDoni I'm starting to regret selling my Canon. I often think now that I should have kept it as my main camera and only bought one Fuji lens for my Fuji as a small every day camera instead of buying a bunch of Fuji lenses. I still have the 40mm f2.8 and 50mm f1.8 lenses. I keep thinking about just accepting my mistake, buying a second hand 6D (so I don't have to mess around with adapters on the Canon RP) and selling most of my Fuji gear.
@@SzilviaVirag Yeah adapters are a pain. If you can't afford the native lens, what's even the point of going mirrorless(so expensive lens at the moment). That's why I kept my 6D+40mm as my everyday/street camera. Then I have 16 to 35 and 70 200. That's my set up. I'll probably get the GRIIIX at some point, but I don't know what I'm going to sell in my current set up.
Small, pocketable and with subject separation. Try an Olympus or Lumix with the 20mm f1.7 Panasonic pancake (40mm equivalent). 1.5 stops faster than the f2.8 aps-c Ricoh but still 1/2 stop more bokeh than aps-c due to format difference. Oh, and you still have an interchangeable lens camera when you wish for another focal length.
Last year I chose not to buy a Ricoh camera and I went for an Olympus em10 II with a lumix 20mm (eq 40mm) f1.7 due to the focal length (and the dust problem). Nice!!
Dear Sean: I am very happy Ricoh has adapted the GR IIIX to the 40mm equivalent focal length and the option of going to 60mm. I recently purchased a GR III. I have found the 28mm focal length too wide for my taste. I have used the movie button to digitally zoom in to the 35mm focal length. So far, I don’t mind going from 24mp to 19mp to obtain a focal length I can better live with. When I go to parades or demonstrations and I’m in the crowd, the 28mm focal length serves me well. I haven’t come to a decision yet if this work around is good enough for me. More will be revealed. When on the street a I live in the 35 to 50mm field of view. Fuji’s decision to go to 40mm with the option to “zoom” to 60mm is intriguing. I try to live my life using the KISS principle. The 40/60mm option will help live my life using the KISS principle. That being said, I don’t know if I will make the purchase. It is great to have this option though. I haven’t adapted to the one hand use of the GR III yet. The focal length, one hand operation, size, weight, and snap focus is why people use this system. I understand. I want two things Ricoh has never done. I want an EVF and a flippy screen. As been mentioned in this thread, on a sunny day it is hard to compose using the LCD screen. You have commented that you appreciate using the LCD screen so you look like an innocent photographer just using a point and shoot camera. I understand. I also would appreciate some version of a flippy screen. I’m 69 years old. I like low angle point of view images sometimes. I can easily bend or get to my knees to see if I want to push the shutter to create these low angle of view images. Getting up again is another matter all together. This can be done if Ricoh decided they wanted to do this. My desires are simply what I like. I can get used to using the LCD exclusively for composition but I’m not thrilled with this prospect. I can bend and go to my knees if I have to. I would choose not to do this if an alternative is available.I understand manufacturers have to make decisions about what they will include. Their final production is a combination of compromises. If I was designing a GR these decisions would be included in my design and compromises. YMMV. Ricoh listened to their customers and has given us focal length choices going in the telephoto direction from the 28mm focal length they are famous for. Bravo. I know this was a hard decision for them to make. Whereas this goes a long way in meeting my needs, wants, and desires I don’t know how the majority of Ricoh users will react to this option. Pentax is in the business of making money. With the deminishing market for cameras and in particular point & shoot cameras (Sorry. Some people take exception to the GR being described as a point & shoot. In essence that is what it is. And of course more.), this decision may be viewed as bold and controversial. I applaud this move by Ricoh. Mask on Nurse Marty
I’ve kept an eye out for a digital equivalent of my go-to edc - a CLE 40 or a Minilux 40. For travel, I supplement with a 2nd CLE with a 28. I adore the 40mm perspective. But 40 & 28 combination is really quite wonderful. These have been great companions for nearly 3 decades. The GR3 caught my interest, but held off. With the addition of the GR3x, my search may be over. Appreciated your video.
Great video Sean, I received my GRIIIx yesterday, great camera to go with the GRII that I've had for a few years now, they're the best (imho) cameras for street photography by far.
I've been looking at the Fuji X100V, and if it didn't have the leaf shutter and built-in ND filter, you probably would have changed my mind. I'm looking to get a one-off pocketable camera before I go medium format (Fuji). Off topic - I think you and the actor Domhnall Gleeson look a lot alike.
Very interesting, Sean. Not sure if you mentioned this but in *pure depth of field terms*, if you want to work out Full Frame equivalence, it's not just the focal length that has to be multiplied by the crop factor, but the widest aperture too. So this lens, being a 26.1mm f/2.8, on a 1.5x crop sensor, equates to a 40mm f/4.2 on Full Frame. Once again, that's just in terms of equivalent depth of field and bokeh - the light-gathering aspect of f/2.8 is of course unchanged.
Hi Sean, I just bought me a Ricoh GR IIIx and I´m very impressed by the usability and pictures of the small camera. But I could not find out, if and how the camera shows me the depth of field BEFORE or WHILE taking the photo. Can you please give me a hint? And thanks for your inspirations! I really appreciate this.
I suppose you can get the 1.5x adapter and put it on the GR III and get the 40mm either way? (42 to be exact) Would be great for a comparison to take both cameras out, and take photos of the same subjects (for street can be tricky but would be a great comparison)
Experience suggests lenses in the 38-42mm area produce my best shots. 38mm was the focal length of many point and shoot film cameras, and putting a 28mm lens on an aps-c body offered a similar field of view. It offers neutrality in which the subjects take centre stage, without any visual drama introduced by the lens. You like this or you don't, but the IIIx is the first Ricoh compact I've been interested in.
Any idea if the GT2 adapter would fit on the GRIII (non-x). I guess that the connection is just on the lens ring, which I assume is the same on both cameras.
Yeah it’s interesting, I jumped from a Fuji to a Ricoh because I’m just so much more likely to take the Ricoh out to shoot but I definitely miss the Fuji look, I feel like the Ricoh comes out over sharpened to my eyes, or something I’m not sure. But when I pull out the Fuji to shoot portraits I’m always a little sad I can’t have that look with the Ricoh!
Having to carry 2 cameras kind of spoils the small/minimum camera approach, a slightly larger setup with a decent quality zoom seems like a better option, to me anyway. BTW, agree with you on the Fuji colors........
I think that Pentax started believing in the 42mm lens focal length looooong ago (they even decide to produce the 42 as “limited”). So when I started with Fuji I gave a try to the 27mm pancake which is super compact and makes my camera (xe3) almost fitting in a pocket . So said I’m not surprised Ricoh went for 40 since I agree with you that is an excellent in between! I’m sure you will create beautiful images. Hoping to see them soon!
Gosh, I seem to have stirred the hornets nest with the Fuji users with one throwaway comment. Let me explain: when I say I find their files "muddy" what I mean is that I feel like there isn't the same colour accuracy and separation I get from the Ricoh, or my Sony RAW files for that matter. I have used the X100 and the X-T20 in the past and they are great cameras, but I always felt, even in the RAWS, that there was a slight "brown, desaturated wash" to the images. I believe Fuji intended this and are going after the photographers who want a "nostalgic, vintage" feel to their digital images straight out of camera, so they bake into the files. You either love it, or you don't. Personally it's not to my taste and I prefer "cleaner" files which is why the Ricoh's and Sony's are right for me (and no I'm not sponsored or affiliated with either company for the persistent conspiracy theorists among you:). But if you love the look of the Fuji files and the feel of their cameras good for you, genuinely. You don't need to justify it, or feel threatened because I shared my opinion. We all have subjective points of view and I respect yours. Enjoy your Fuji:)
Thanks for replying. I wasn’t offended, just was unclear as to what you found muddy in regards to the Fuji files. Thanks again for all your efforts!
A throw away account? Tell them to get bent.
Hey Sean, haven’t read the other comments and their tone (if indeed they give that impression) though must confess I was curious what you meant by that comment. The idea that the RAW files have something “baked” into them that you can’t get rid of or control however still leaves me puzzled (whatever anyone’s personal tastes may be). I know the X Series camera’s can share images with your phone only in JPEG (but not RAW AFAIK) and that might make processing them on the go with your phone limiting, and I always found the starting point for RAW processing Fuji images with Lightroom somewhat frustrating - but then all that changed when I started using Capture One, which can either give me accurate “Fuji” colours straight off the bat (unlike LR), or allow me to process the RAW files in whatever direction you want; though none of this would help you unless or until Fuji X Cameras have the ability to share RAW files directly with connected smartphones. If only Fuji listened to their customers and made changes … Uh, hang on, they’ve been doing that for years and made their reputation with the X Series off the back of that (LOL). When the produce an X100 with IBIS however I will definitely be in the queue to buy one.
In all seriousness though Sean, have you tried any of the later X Trans 4 sensor Fuji X cameras since you moved away from using them? Would be curious to know if their additional flexibility to control the look of images in whatever direction you choose (as in cleaner or more analog, as well as colour shifts) made them more useful for you - For me it even got me thinking that for many images I can generate OOC JPegs that are almost the finished product, and can avoid most if not all further image processing steps and still get a signature look (certainly for posting online); now that was very though provoking for me, I can tell you. Anyway, food for thought …
Lmao i find it hilarious how some people can get offended over cameras
In a couple of years of shooting mostly fuji, any issues with muddiness or inaccurate colors have been, in my experience, mostly down to either poor technique on my part, or the RAW processor I'm using. Lightroom doesn't do nearly as good of a job at processing Fuji files (and it's not just about their sharpening settings). Every image I've edited in Capture One looks significantly cleaner than the same image edited in Lightroom. I'd lay more at Adobe's feet than Fuji's in this regard. Anyway, there are marked differences between the newer and older generation of primes, and even the x-trans 3 and x-trans 4 sensors in terms of color rendering. That said, their latest lens releases, while really impressive sharpness-wise, are as expensive as mirrorless full frame lenses, and nearly the same size. If the size advantage of apsc is lost, I start feeling similarly to you: I could just be shooting with a Nikon Z6/7 for professional work, and keep a Ricoh or x100v in the bag for day-to-day stuff.
Regardless, like you wrote below, we really are spoilt for choice. Looking forward to seeing what you make with your new tool, Sean!
The best part of this video had nothing to do with the gear but instead the decision making when to use 28mm (ie high contrast says) and when you don’t
One thing that draws me toward 40mm is it keeps the framing from looking like a smartphone capture as a 28mm lens would.
Glad to hear that you've got a camera you hoped for! Thank you for sharing it with us!
I own a GR, realy quite old, and a GR3x, only a week also old, after watching this video. I keep them both, carry both, and as the GR3x is newer, and easier to use for people shots, I use it more. The depth of view point of view is valid for buying this new one.
I searching which photographer can share some artistic view on how ricoh gr3x can expand their creativity and make their job done.
But for now, none of them. Until I found this video. Thank you Sean!
And I'm gr3 user. I love it. I love the colour and the compactness of it.
I had hoped for a GR with a standard focal length for some time, although I figured they would just make a converter. Thanks for using your voice to make it happen.
It can be a pro camera, it can be a casual shooter, it can be a starter camera…fits into pocket, you can for sure edit on phone, it is in many ways perfect companion…Wish I have a money to buy it.
I'm an intermediate level photographer - have used Canon 5dIII, now have OM1 as I was finding the Canon too heavy (I'm a bit elderly!) and downsized to the OM1 last year. I love it, shoot wildlife, birds and landscapes but now want to try something smaller again for street (new interest) and other stuff. I was going to get the Fujix100v, but they are now unavailable. Have been debating Ricoh GRIII and GRIIIx, which are also becoming a bit hard to find in Australia. I think this video has confirmed my thoughts about getting the GRIIIx when I can locate one. Thank you for you clear and comprehensive discussion and video.
I just today held a book report on "The meaning in the making" it was so much fun and I feel like it really resonated with my peers. Thank you for writing this book✨
I’ve never had a Ricoh but I would love to one day! This is good news for all of us as it will ensure even more beautiful photos from you for us to enjoy ❤️
Nearly every photo I've taken this year was shot at 40mm equivalent (27mm f2.8 Fuji lens). But it's mostly because going out for a walk with an Xe2s and a pancake lens during our ongoing strict lockdowns in my part of the world feels more reasonable as an allowable exercise outing than anything larger.
The 27mmf2 is my go-to travel lens, slap it on a XT1 or XPro3 and can walk around Paris or Toronto all day and you hardly know you have a camera on you. Maybe tuck the little X70 in my pocket in case I want to shoot a little wider. BTW I wish Fuji would update the XF10 with the new sensor but they seem to have abandoned their pocketable camera series in favor of the X100V and interchangeable lens cameras. Shame.
@@jimmason8502 yep. I'm seriously contemplating going back to Canon since I still have a couple of lenses, and only keeping one Fuji camera with this little lens and the kit lens. I mean, there are things I like about Fuji, but if Canon had gotten their act together with making good mirrorless cameras a lot sooner than they did I might have made different choices.
Really enjoying the book, well worth the wait from pre-order to delivery. "In-spiration doesn't strike as a feeling while you are sitting on the couch waiting for it. In-spiration most often strikes when you have already gotten yourself up and begun to create. On the hardest days, "making" has to begin with a rational choice."
man his so right about fuji and the brown being baked into the files, i use a XT1 and a rx100 iii ,, i didnt know this but i always liked the rx100 colors more then my fuji,, and now i come across this thing sean says ,, and im likeee whaaat ! so true !!
Fuji guy here, but I've heard great things about the GRs. My main issue with them is the lack of a view finder. When outside in bright sun, the rear display is tough. For me that is its biggest weakness.
So glad there's a company who knows who are really their customers. Most of the time, a company especially those who are publicly traded mostly focus on the profits they are going to give to shareholders instead of doing great service to those who actually uses their product.
I really enjoyed every GR I've owned. The best camera for one-handed operation by far. I just wish they would stop breaking or Ricoh would offer more reasonable repair costs.
Ricoh's UK after sales are hands down the worst I've ever encountered. One dealer who processes them in the UK. Astronomical prices for repairs, and cameras that are not particularly built to last. I dropped a gr3 less than a foot onto the ground , got a quote for repair just under £300.00 ( the camera was sent to Germany for repair) less than a week later I got an email saying they'd quoted wrong and wanted over £600.00 for the same repair. On a camera that cost £750? And they wanted £600.00 ? Let me put this into perspective. My Fuji x100 f was dropped by my daughter, Fuji replaced the lens and the electronic viewfinder for £125.00. no fuss, no problems quick repair. Ricoh have total disregard for the people who buy their products.
As a photographer for 55 years and computer user since 1983, I long ago decided to try my hardest not to support companies that disrespect their customers.
I also had a GR lovely pics from the superb 28mm but easily the most unreliable camera I have ever had. The electronics are flimsy.
I took minimalistic to another level, all I need are my eyes, my memory and my feet to zoom.
It’s rad you took the time to provide feedback to them and it’s rad that they listened!
It's a rad, rad, rad, rad, rad, rad feeling alright.
I just picked up the X yesterday. Upgraded from the GRii. Love this range of cameras.
I had the 28mm but I lost it. So today I punched the 40mm as a replacement. Many of the points you raised I agree with so I’m delighted with this focal length. Just for the record I’ve bough a great big chain so I don’t loose it this time. So much for portability!
Also got a 40mm!
My first digital camera was a Canon SD1100, it had a zoom but I used mostly the initial focal of 38 mm, so my photographic eye adjusted to that. To have a 40 mm on a serious pocketable camera is a dream come true.
When your opinion is the key for the RnD department of RICOH!! You must be feeling so proud
1. I knew they were gonna do this.
2. If ricoh does not give that camera to you. I would be shocked. Excellent video
My photography started with a Canonet 28 that featured a lovely 40mm lens. It is a focal length I like, and with Ricoh providing it in a small camera, I just may go back to that focal length.
I'm ready for a Ricoh G4x:
- 28-40mm zoom (GR3 & GR3 xcombined)
- Included flash with built-in diffuser
-Water and dust resistant
- Video capability either improved or removed
What do you all think?
I'm halfway through your book now. So far it's definitely a book that I will probably return to several times for a re-read. I feel like it will stand the test of time, and not feel dated.
I picked up the GR3x and couldn't be happier! Nice focal length and it produces wonderful files. Looking forward to seeing more of your work with the GR3x when your schedule allows.
Best wishes for 2022.
Finally got my GRIIIx last weekend and got out to use the camera on Monday last.
Spent a fair bit of time setting the camera settings up, before using it but it’s going to take uptime to finally find the settings that suits my street photography ‘style’.
I made an assumption, wrongly, that it would overexpose images as most of the digital cameras I’ve owned do/did so I set it to underexpose by -1… but was I wrong as most (if not all) images were very much underexposed… lesson learnt.
The other big difference experienced was with the focal length… having been a 50mm photographer for most of my adult life, and now working in 35mm with my X100v (I also owned the Fujifilm XF10 until September last year when I traded it in for the GRIIIX) & having been so used to working 28mm, I sometimes forgot I was now using a camera the shoots 40mm!
So, when snapping a street image on the fly/from the hip, I tended to be a little too close for this lens. I wasn’t a big deal as the images were still usable but I’ll need to remember to shoot earlier than I did with the XF10.(by the way, there’s nothing wrong with the XF10, it’s a good wee street camera, dust not 35/40mm).
Will you be doing a follow-up video on the GRIIIx anytime soon?
Love that someone finally made a 40mm fixed digital compact. Waiting on the Nikon 40/2 for my Z6 for similar reasons!
Same here!
Excellent channel, learning a ton from your insights on photography. Thank you!
I carried a Canon 5D (classic) and a Canon 40mm f/2.8 STM as a compliment to a Ricoh GRDIV (the old small-sensor camera) on a trip to Washington DC many years ago and the 28+40 pairing was phenomenal. Such a fun way to explore a city with a "small" full frame on my shoulder and a wide-angle compact in my back pocket. Love your take on this.
I carry the same gear, Canon 5D and Canon 50 f/1.8 Stm with a Ricoh GRDIII. So much fun to shoot with these.
Your explanations and examples were very informative to me, and will help my own photography. Thank you so much.
This video is going to help Ricoh sell a ton of GR IIIx's. And, mind you, I mean this in a good way, not in a Sean-has-taken-to-peddle-gear way. Uplifting to see that some manufacturers still listen to their users. Ricoh may be a niche player in the industry, but with their Pentax K and Ricoh GR systems, they keep offering something that is quite unique.
I was just recently given an original 2013 GR and the 28mm focal length buggered me at first, but now I'm just adoring it. Thanks for all the great videos, and the book is just superb, I'm on my third read of it right now.
That was my first impression when I heard about the release. Ricoh listened to it's long-time fans!
Great talk, even without showing the camera or outside footages!
I recently purchased a 40mm f/2.5 lens for my camera. I agree it's a great split between the 35mm and 50mm focal lengths. Plus the reduced size and weight make for an easy to carry kit. It's become the lens most often attached to my camera.
Would be great if you did do a video on the GR3x once you have had a bit of time with it. Because you don’t do constant gear reviews, what you do say about the gear you use and how it fits in with your work is worth listening to.
Well put. My name is John .because of you I have decided to buy th gr 3x. I’ve alway loved street photographers. But never had the time. Last year I suffered a stroke and became paralysis d on the left side. Being wheelchair bound I’ve drcided to to put a different spin on street photography from a handy app person
I the gr looks like the perfect camera as you can shoot single handed. Would you recommend any other camer or stick to the gr. Love you photos. Is your book available in audio as my vision isn’t that great. I need an escape from the daily boredom
I'm absolutely over the moon that they've brought out this 40mm equivalent. Like you, I much prefer a 35mm so I'm more excited for this than I was to get the original GRIII... EXCITING 😁❤
Well, Sean, now I understand your point about the 40mm focal and also the philosophy of the Ricoh GR system. After using only 85mm plus focal length lenses for years, I felt the need for a change in my photography. A change, not only in perspective but in my whole approach. I sold my full frame (a Canon 6D mk2) camera an most of my lenses and kept only my APSC EOS 800D. I bought Canon’s 24mm f2.8 STM pancake lens (about 38mm equivalent) and I tried to use it as my daily camera aside to my iPhone. It’s my I intermediate state before I invest in a GRIIIx or a GRIII. The process makes love photography again! I didn’t believe that the 40mm was so versatile focal. It’s too close to human cone of vision and that leads to a very familiar effect on photos. It’s even capable for some nice landscape shots.
My second reason to go for a Ricoh has to do with the JPEG engine and the build in RAW editing capabilities. As much as I like Canon’s RAW files (I worked with them for a decade after all), their JPEGs are just trashy. I never managed to get them to my style even by tweaking the in camera profiles. And I want to shoot in JPEG for my daily snapshots. It’s time consuming and pointless to edit every single photo on Lightroom! From what I have seen, Ricoh has very pleasing JPEG files.
Thought about one of these, but I ended up with a RX100VII and a G5X II as they are more versatile for photo and video.
To have these little cameras instead of my big Sony stuff, makes me feel free again. So I absolutely understand you and your love for the GR.
I like your content and it inspires me to do photography again. However, because of a tight budget, I can't afford gears as you use, is it possible that you can create content with budget cameras like a Nikon D3400?
Always looking forward to watching your content.
Certain aspects of this video mirror me completely in that i find myself using the Gr3 far more than i ever envisaged and it gives me the freedom to wander into areas of the inner city that i may not otherwise walk. i am able to just leave it in my pocket and casually bring it out when i spot something without drawing attention to myself and indeed i have managed photos that i do not believe that i would have got with any other camera simply because i am so close to the action. i like the post card feel of the images as i try to focus on the scene rather than worry about photographic merit and as a retired professional tog it feels very liberating not to always chase the light - which i have done for years. Don't get me wrong there is still a need on some images for background separation and to focus on the subject and indeed only last week was in a camera store asking if they had a small fixed compact like the Ricoh that would do just that. They could only suggest a fuji or sony with a zoom neither of which felt right in my hands - and then literally on the very same day the 3x launch appeared on my facebook time line. You couldn't make it up.
I have found that where I'm shooting has the biggest impact on what focal length I feel comfortable with. In the midwest US, unless I'm downtown in one of the larger cities, I can't shoot comfortably with anything wider than 35mm. Those compositions don't come naturally to me. That's why I'm so excited to be getting the GR3x. I loved shooting on my Fuji X100, but it's 11 years old now, and it feels like it in terms of handling, and the X100V is too expensive to justify.
I share your sensor emotion. Great little camera. Using it as a small setup with just your phone is not a great experience at all. Unpredictable connection issues (iii works, iii x still not able to connect). Leica is the only brand that really has a great phone/camera integration and workflow experience.
Since Ricoh hear your voice (like many of us ;) could you address this with them as well? Many thanks 👍🏼✨
wow impressive that they really listened and came up with their own focal length decision.
Mine’s on preorder. Can’t wait. I can use 28mm but I’m always happier at around 35-50, and I have a 40 equivalent on m43 anyway. This is ideal. Also agree about Fuji images… never been a fan even after trying around 6 of their cameras.
Thanks, Sean. Great info and feedback on the new GR3x. I know you do not too often discuss gear, or do gear reviews - so your pov on this new camera carries more water in my view. I'm a long time GR user and the 28mm suits me very well in the way I shoot. It's very cinematic. With arms outreached, it actually frames more similar to a 35mm - unless you're holding it very close to your body, or from the hip. Regardless, your point is well taken and spot on in regards to when it's best used - bright days with plenty of contrast - I love using it when I can enable metering for highlights in full manual mode. It is such a stellar camera, with a lens that produces "magic".... it's no wonder it has such a long time cult following (I actually owned a film version 20 years ago). When you read out loud your note to Ricoh, all that you describe rang very true for me personally. It's on those overcast days when the light is more even that I tend to go to my main camera gear - which mostly has a 35mm or 50mm (equiv) prime that lives on it, or even a short standard zoom for everything else. But the Ricoh GR III is always with me, always. It probably makes up more than 70% of my daily "street" (visual journaling) shooting today (I've published 6 photo books, the last two are mostly made up of images I produced using the GR III, I'm now thinking of making just a GR focused street book next). I'm glad Ricoh has listened to users such as yourself and designed a new camera with this 40mm equiv lens implementation. It makes sense for those of us who cherish carrying minimal and light gear - and could very well be a sweet spot for better isolating subjects, as well as shooting on those bland and overcast days. I look forward to learning more about the camera - what you and others create from it. (This is the best channel on photography, for photographers, about photography - and I thank you graciously for it).
i just bought a IIIx and love it, but i often wish i had the additional context of a 28mm. especially when you can always crop but not the reverse
These cameras look ideal for me as an EDC but looking into the product in more detail they seem to be a rather fragile camera that is also prone to dust on the sensor. This really puts me off as they are rather unique with regards to image quality for the size. If i can't put it in my pocket ( dust) I may as well just use a small mirrorless with removable lenses. I also looked at the UK price for the x version, £900!! For that I expect durability and weather sealing.
Super helpful video. And side note, I absolutely love the color-rendering of this video. Wonder what camera was used to shoot ?! This video for sure helped me decide on purchasing the GRIIIx along with Samuel's videos!
Interesting comment about the directional quality of light and choice focal length. Not something I had considered before but makes perfect sense.
Love my GR. Wish it had an EVF. Hard to see the LCD in sun. Amazing size and feel tho. Great to have a 40mm option. Thanks for lobbying.
I was going to make exactly he same comment!
I live in upstate New York where all days are typically overcast and tend to shoot my x100s/v with EVF because I’m lazy about exposure and it helps. I’m visiting now in sunny sunny Rome for a bit and the sun is BRIGHT. I had almost forgotten the optical view finder on the x100 and have been using it exclusively because I just can’t see the electronic options well enough to even frame my subjects. That is one feature of that camera and the X-Pro models that is really beautiful when you actually need it. I’ve also been dusting off my understanding of the exposure triangle.
All that said the IIIx looks like a very nice camera.
there is a external EVF you can attached on hot shoe
This is so interesting. I loved the Sigma DP2 which had a 40mm focal length and I loved it. But that sensor could only handle the brightest of days outdoors. Would be really cool to rent and play with this for a day.
I've been getting the gospel of the Ricoh pro-results GR point & shoot tapped into my consciousness since the film days. But back when the likes of Contax and Minolta were still producing incredible film P&S, I never got around to the GR. Then digital came and with its possibilities, I continued to get sidetracked.
I think this time, after more than 20 years since I first heard about this little piece of marvel, I'll pull the trigger. This video of yours has finally focused (pun unintended) my mind.
I completely understand the difficulty with 28mm. Right before Ricoh announced the GRIIIx, I decided to go for an X100V. It still stings a bit because I now see all those videos about the GR IIIx but in the end I still have my GR III and what I'm missing most - to be honest - is a viewfinder. I'm just not experienced enough to nail my compositions just by feel or taking a glance at an LCD screen. It's also nice to have a weather sealed camera. Still.... would love the GR IIIx, since my personal favourite focal length is 40mm :(
Ordering book now! Thanks for all you do, Sean!
Currently there is a Leica rumor around that says the Leica Q3 will come with a 43mm option. I own a Leica Q and the 28mm has a stellar performance. Considering that it is not easy for the camera manufacturers to develop a lens that is delivering the same performance as the other option. And I mean not only sharpness, but also size and weight play a factor.
I ordered a GR IIIx HDF and can't wait to play with it. that said, I can't wait what the future brings from a Leica perspective.
Very cool that they reached out to you. I'm interested.
40mm is such a surprisingly fun focal length, especially when it's on a teeeeny tiny camera for street photography
I don’t fancy 40mm tbh. I’ve used 35mm way too much and that shaped my style
90mm would be even better tbh
Such a beautiful camera.
Vintage yet still modern
Having watched you use this in the field today, I can certainly vouch for the benefits of having both a very capable camera along with editing studio both in the same pocket as a means of shooting when you may not usually. This can only be of benefit to you and your skill set. The saying goes, the best camera is the one you have with you, and this is a camera you can have with you at any time. Fantastic piece of kit 👏🏼
I'm so thrilled for this camera. I, too, have been craving a high quality 40-50mm focal length snap shooter and it's finally here! Can't wait to pre-order
I got a Sony RX100 for similar reasons, I wanted something more portable and less noticeable when I'm out shooting. These high end point and shoots fill the need nicely and take some great shots.
I had the Sony RX100M7 and it was amazing. The viewfinder had an issue so I had to return it, but what does this camera provide over that one? They are about the same price, and the Sony is higher rated and has a 200 zoom to name a few. I use it only for travel and street photography. It fits in my pocket.
This is reminiscent of the Olympus 35 RC, an extraordinarily compact rangefinder film camera from the 70's, featured a 42 mm lens.
Great video, Sean,
I keep on being tossed between the GrIII & the X. I can live with either 28 or 40 with the latter being my favourite but I can’t live with out of focus images. With the latest firmware of them both should I be concerned with the GRIIIX AF?
This rad!! I was shocked to see the announcement of this, and I'm stoked to hear that it is because Ricoh listened. Looking forward to seeing any further testing that you do. I've often wondered how the GR3 (and now especially the GR3x) would go with a run & gun OCF set up; perhaps just an AD100pro with a small umbrella or such, I thought it could be interesting for, well I have a bunch of ideas in my head. But just thought I'd throw it out there and perhaps it could be an interesting thing to test out. Thanks for your videos!
Ah, and an edit... saw the portrait test images at the end, there you go. Thanks!
Hi I always enjoy your content. Can you make a video of your setting for the Ricoh GR III x by any chance? Thanks
I'd also used at first my X100 1st gen. beside my DSLR. Now I'm impressed by my GR IIIx, because it's a very handy camera, quick start with, easy handling. According to her autofocus, it could better, sometime he's pumping. To avoid this, I choose sometimes a fix focal distance with a capture 4 oder 5.6. The smallest APS-C Kamera, it offers a realy good resolution and noise ratio up to iso 3200, higher iso will increase noise clear
Perfectly explained 💁🏼
Sean, Equally glad to see Ricoh introduce this camera and hope they will begin offering it for sale in the US. I’ve always found the 40mm focal length my favorite choice for a “one focal length” option.
28mm felt right for Ricoh to put on their GR's because they are Japanese and 28mm is the perfect for big crowded Japanese cities like Tokyo, where you can capture so many subjects upclose, but there are more street photographers in the world, not all living in big cities and for me 28mm is a very challenging focal length, especially now with Covid, 40mm seems the perfect compromise between 35 and 50mm.
And great to see you talking about The Meaning in the Making. You’ve done a terrific job with the book, the writing is great and its a lovely aesthetic feel as a book. Love my copy
Hello Sean,
Many thanks for sharing your thoughts on the Ricoh GR3x...
Take care.
Paul,,
Loved using my 40mm pancake lens with my canon. This hasn’t been a good year or I’d have it preordered
Worst year ever
Same mate. I’ve been clinging to my 6D + 40mm pancake lens from Canon. Every time I try to research if there’s an equivalent out there, I can’t find anything. I can buy mirrorless but they don’t have a pancake 40mm. This Ricoh is the answer! So glad they went with this focal
@@CommeDesDoni Nikon Z has a new 40mm f2 pancake. Looks really promising.
@@CommeDesDoni I'm starting to regret selling my Canon. I often think now that I should have kept it as my main camera and only bought one Fuji lens for my Fuji as a small every day camera instead of buying a bunch of Fuji lenses. I still have the 40mm f2.8 and 50mm f1.8 lenses. I keep thinking about just accepting my mistake, buying a second hand 6D (so I don't have to mess around with adapters on the Canon RP) and selling most of my Fuji gear.
@@SzilviaVirag Yeah adapters are a pain. If you can't afford the native lens, what's even the point of going mirrorless(so expensive lens at the moment). That's why I kept my 6D+40mm as my everyday/street camera. Then I have 16 to 35 and 70 200. That's my set up. I'll probably get the GRIIIX at some point, but I don't know what I'm going to sell in my current set up.
Small, pocketable and with subject separation. Try an Olympus or Lumix with the 20mm f1.7 Panasonic pancake (40mm equivalent). 1.5 stops faster than the f2.8 aps-c Ricoh but still 1/2 stop more bokeh than aps-c due to format difference. Oh, and you still have an interchangeable lens camera when you wish for another focal length.
Thinking the same thing. Lumix GM5 with 20mm f1.7 is very pocketable (if not quite as ‘flat’ as a GR).
Thanks Sean , hope you enjoy your photography with it
Last year I chose not to buy a Ricoh camera and I went for an Olympus em10 II with a lumix 20mm (eq 40mm) f1.7 due to the focal length (and the dust problem). Nice!!
Definitely on board with GR IIIx. Love my 28mm Ricoh 🤴😘😘🥳🥰
Dear Sean:
I am very happy Ricoh has adapted the GR IIIX to the 40mm equivalent focal length and the option of going to 60mm.
I recently purchased a GR III. I have found the 28mm focal length too wide for my taste. I have used the movie button to digitally zoom in to the 35mm focal length. So far, I don’t mind going from 24mp to 19mp to obtain a focal length I can better live with. When I go to parades or demonstrations and I’m in the crowd, the 28mm focal length serves me well. I haven’t come to a decision yet if this work around is good enough for me. More will be revealed.
When on the street a I live in the 35 to 50mm field of view. Fuji’s decision to go to 40mm with the option to “zoom” to 60mm is intriguing. I try to live my life using the KISS principle. The 40/60mm option will help live my life using the KISS principle. That being said, I don’t know if I will make the purchase. It is great to have this option though.
I haven’t adapted to the one hand use of the GR III yet. The focal length, one hand operation, size, weight, and snap focus is why people use this system. I understand. I want two things Ricoh has never done. I want an EVF and a flippy screen. As been mentioned in this thread, on a sunny day it is hard to compose using the LCD screen. You have commented that you appreciate using the LCD screen so you look like an innocent photographer just using a point and shoot camera. I understand.
I also would appreciate some version of a flippy screen. I’m 69 years old. I like low angle point of view images sometimes. I can easily bend or get to my knees to see if I want to push the shutter to create these low angle of view images. Getting up again is another matter all together. This can be done if Ricoh decided they wanted to do this.
My desires are simply what I like. I can get used to using the LCD exclusively for composition but I’m not thrilled with this prospect. I can bend and go to my knees if I have to. I would choose not to do this if an alternative is available.I understand manufacturers have to make decisions about what they will include. Their final production is a combination of compromises. If I was designing a GR these decisions would be included in my design and compromises. YMMV.
Ricoh listened to their customers and has given us focal length choices going in the telephoto direction from the 28mm focal length they are famous for. Bravo. I know this was a hard decision for them to make. Whereas this goes a long way in meeting my needs, wants, and desires I don’t know how the majority of Ricoh users will react to this option. Pentax is in the business of making money. With the deminishing market for cameras and in particular point & shoot cameras (Sorry. Some people take exception to the GR being described as a point & shoot. In essence that is what it is. And of course more.), this decision may be viewed as bold and controversial. I applaud this move by Ricoh.
Mask on Nurse Marty
I’ve kept an eye out for a digital equivalent of my go-to edc - a CLE 40 or a Minilux 40. For travel, I supplement with a 2nd CLE with a 28. I adore the 40mm perspective. But 40 & 28 combination is really quite wonderful. These have been great companions for nearly 3 decades.
The GR3 caught my interest, but held off. With the addition of the GR3x, my search may be over.
Appreciated your video.
Thank you for making this video, I was considering buying the GRiii, but you've given me a reason to wait a bit longer to compare the two models.
Great video Sean, I received my GRIIIx yesterday, great camera to go with the GRII that I've had for a few years now, they're the best (imho) cameras for street photography by far.
I've been looking at the Fuji X100V, and if it didn't have the leaf shutter and built-in ND filter, you probably would have changed my mind. I'm looking to get a one-off pocketable camera before I go medium format (Fuji). Off topic - I think you and the actor Domhnall Gleeson look a lot alike.
Very interesting, Sean. Not sure if you mentioned this but in *pure depth of field terms*, if you want to work out Full Frame equivalence, it's not just the focal length that has to be multiplied by the crop factor, but the widest aperture too. So this lens, being a 26.1mm f/2.8, on a 1.5x crop sensor, equates to a 40mm f/4.2 on Full Frame. Once again, that's just in terms of equivalent depth of field and bokeh - the light-gathering aspect of f/2.8 is of course unchanged.
thinking of getting the GRx ,upgrade from my GR2
Hi Sean, I just bought me a Ricoh GR IIIx and I´m very impressed by the usability and pictures of the small camera. But I could not find out, if and how the camera shows me the depth of field BEFORE or WHILE taking the photo. Can you please give me a hint? And thanks for your inspirations! I really appreciate this.
Placed an order for the GR3x and sold my XF10... Now k have to wait for the order to be fulfilled.
Sean, great review. I have wanted a digital pocket camera with a 40mm lens for years. This looks like a real winner.
I suppose you can get the 1.5x adapter and put it on the GR III and get the 40mm either way? (42 to be exact)
Would be great for a comparison to take both cameras out, and take photos of the same subjects (for street can be tricky but would be a great comparison)
Im hoping this is the case and a slightly cheaper way to get the versatility of the GRIIIx.
Experience suggests lenses in the 38-42mm area produce my best shots. 38mm was the focal length of many point and shoot film cameras, and putting a 28mm lens on an aps-c body offered a similar field of view. It offers neutrality in which the subjects take centre stage, without any visual drama introduced by the lens. You like this or you don't, but the IIIx is the first Ricoh compact I've been interested in.
Would love to see more portraits with this camera.
Any idea if the GT2 adapter would fit on the GRIII (non-x). I guess that the connection is just on the lens ring, which I assume is the same on both cameras.
Looks like a great camera! I'm curiousm what did you mean my the "muddy" image quality in the Fujis?
My thoughts exactly!
And me. None of my Fuji images are "muddy" at all. Not in the slightest.
Yeah it’s interesting, I jumped from a Fuji to a Ricoh because I’m just so much more likely to take the Ricoh out to shoot but I definitely miss the Fuji look, I feel like the Ricoh comes out over sharpened to my eyes, or something I’m not sure. But when I pull out the Fuji to shoot portraits I’m always a little sad I can’t have that look with the Ricoh!
@@rellify3 exactly
See pinned comment above.
Having to carry 2 cameras kind of spoils the small/minimum camera approach, a slightly larger setup with a decent quality zoom seems like a better option, to me anyway. BTW, agree with you on the Fuji colors........
I think that Pentax started believing in the 42mm lens focal length looooong ago (they even decide to produce the 42 as “limited”). So when I started with Fuji I gave a try to the 27mm pancake which is super compact and makes my camera (xe3) almost fitting in a pocket . So said I’m not surprised Ricoh went for 40 since I agree with you that is an excellent in between! I’m sure you will create beautiful images. Hoping to see them soon!