As a GR owner (and pro shooter) - don’t pocket this camera. If you have any lint at all in your pockets (we all do). This camera will literally suction the fluff into the lens mechanism when you turn it on. It creates low pressure inside the body as the lens extends and opens the lens shields - and becomes a mini Dyson vacuum cleaner. Plenty of stories online about it. Great little camera tho
hope it'll be alright with the case. the main reason I want to get one is to always have a camera on me while also being able to go out bagless if I want to.
The build quality is actually quite good. The body is magnesium alloy, just the surface texture might have given you the wrong impression of it being plastic. One improvement would have made me love it more is weather sealing.
I agree with your comment on build quality. Ive had the GR III for a few years and I’d say its build quality has shown up well. Ive also never had a problem with dust.
Dust problems typically occur as a result of non-use storage where lint and dust lives: pants pockets, jacket pockets, etc. Solution: use a lens cap when not in use. For instance: JJC Aluminum Lens Cap Cover Protector for Ricoh GR IIIx GRIIIx GR III GRIII GR II GRII with Soft EVA Interior. In the neighborhood of $15 on Amazon.
@@Pilpup Well.. I went kayaking and fell in the water with my GRiiiX in my pocket. It took 2 weeks to dry in rice, but the camera still works like a dream. Not really weather sealed, but it survived being under water
The fact that James finds the screen good for bright sunny days, while literally every other person on the internet and their dog complained about the brightness of the screen, really says a lot about what brits call "bright and sunny" 😁
It is a lovely camera for sure but the small battery means a dull screen with reasonable battery life or a bright(ish) screen with bad battery life. These days the phone makers are putting massive batteries in phones like the Samsung A54 & screen brightness is really good.
My pocket system is my old lumix GM1 micro 4/3 . Two tiny lenses , 12-32mm and a 35-100mm. A complete pocket system. Old, only 16mp but still takes great shots 👍
Picked up mine yesterday and can't stop using it. Bought the Hot Shoe EVF 40 and four extra camera batteries. Already have a case and power bank. Bought it used but came with a hot shoe thumb grip and wrist strap which I bought me a smaller one and using it. Have the battery charger and usb cable. Loving it and already took 200 photos and videos. Going to the Chinese Tea Garden and the Zoo today. Cheers!
Oh wow Chester..... such an lovely city.... my home town....I used to live 10 minutes walk fron the Groves and went to school near there..... some nice photos you've taken
The Ricoh GR cameras have a very sturdy magnesium alloy body. Since the material is very light, it might not feel like a brick. For me, sturdy and light is the perfect combination.
I thought the issue with this camera was the sealing? It's known to collect dust or, in this case, pocket lint into the censor when turning it on and off. I read a lot about these issues, which is pretty common on many reviews videos/forums etc.
@@JonasMondrup I've read that as well. But in 9 years with my GR, GR III and GR IIIx I never had an issue. On the other hand, I never understood how people would just shove a tool like this in a pants pocket. Why not use a pouch or maybe a simple sleeve, like those thin mini outdoor packing bags? Remember those 'socks' for your mobile phone from pre-smartphone times? That works as well to keep pocket lint away.
The Ricoh GR III cameras are pretty much unique in what they offer in such a small package. The image quality is insane for such a pocketable device. If I could afford a second camera beyond my regular Pentax APS-C DSLR system, I would have already got one.
Pentax here too! I personally don't have use for point and cameras like this, but I have recommended it to others looking for something better than your typical P&S without going to a DSLR.
I’ve got a GRIII recently and love it . My Fuji X-T2 stays at home on days out . The image quality is fantastic, there is a good community around it and great photographers like Sean Tucker using it ..
Hmmm the Nikon Coolpix A is a large sensor (APS-C) pocketable camera with a very good 28mm f2.8 equivalent lens. Yes, it's "old" and "only" 16MP and has some weird UI quirks, but it makes lovely photos.
Pentaxian here...I have my 5th GR now with the GRIII being with me whenever I leave the house. For travel i extend my set with the K1 when i want to carry heavier luggage or a Fuji X-T1 with the fantastic 18-135mm when I need it lighter (my problem is that I also carry additional cameras with me depending on what I picked of the shelf because it needs some usage to not get dusty so either my ME, LX, or/and one of the M's get some fresh air ;-) With what am i taking the most photos? GRIII... I am still shy to have a closer look at the IIIx .... another camera - oh nooo....
Oh Richo cameras are amazing. I have a Richo GR2 and the jpegs are absolutely amazing, so much so I never bother editing RAW. They produce magical photos
I have the original 28mm and I have to agree the most impressive thing about this little camera is how sharp the images are! Snap Focus is also a feature that sets it apart.
I picked up a GRiii earlier this year, had been holding off for months and months, but it is the best quality camera in small take everywhere size, love it
Same here, the price tag is kind of hefty for a small camera like that but i ended up find one from OfferUp for $600. It was pretty much new, only 20 photos according to the shutter count. The guy said he didn’t like it so he just wanted to get rid of it. lol One man’s trash, is another man’s treasure. 😂
Yup, the pocketability is a major factor. Main reason I swapped out the 100v for the x70 is just down to the size. I would have gone for the GR over the x70, but the Fuji has a tilt screen which really helps for low angle stuff.
i've looked at these for the exact same reasons as you. thought it would be nice to have a "pocketable" camera but ultimately solved my problem by just using a cross-body bag.
I have the GRiii and love love love it for all the reasons you state. In the process of selling it to switch to a GRiiix. But as you point out: if a camera doesn't fit in your jeans pocket it doesn't really matter if it is fuji x100v-sized or sony a7iv-sized, you still have to lug it around your shoulder or in a bag.
My camera for those purposes is a Canon G7x mk1. I use it when cycling with a group, taking pics while riding. Fits in a jersey pocket or a small feed bag on my handlebars. So I do take some risks with it, but it was only $350 USD in a pawn shop 4 years ago. Not a huge loss if I drop it and I can buy another one like it cheaply.
I feel just like you do. The image quality produced by this Ricoh GRIII X is simply amazing !Before having acquired one, I just could not imagine that such a small thing could take such photos !!
I shoot on a K3 III and KP but I make sure my GR3 is always with me wherever I go. I absolutely ADORE that camera! Ricoh knocked it out of the park with that one.
I was skeptical too but I got one and now I carry it all the time. It’s become my go to street camera. The 40mm was what really did the trick, so thanks Ricoh for the “X”. Not sure you’ve discovered Snap Focus yet. It’s awesome.
You make me smile, I enjoy your content so much. You say you are not a "gear guy" is like saying I'm not addicted to photography and feel somewhat melancholy when I don't go out and get away from the world. You my friend will buy more cameras as it is a side effect of the illness, and I will continue to feed my appetite to get away from the clamouring world of man and find serenity in nature
Welcome to the GR family ! I love my griiix. It’s always in my pocket and the perfect edc for family trips and amazing for street. Pretty dang versatile camera with a sharper than sharp lens 🤝🏼🤘🏼
Welcome aboard the Ricoh Train. Glad you’re enjoying using it. As you say, it’s a great piece of kit. Only just moved from my ageing Panasonic GX7 to the GR3. Great move for me. 👌🏻
I use my 8.1 megapixel Ricoh GR digital from 2005. 28mm equivalent lens. I love it for black and white street. So small and discreet. Ricoh make their lenses from magic glass. My 50mm f2 K mount Rikenon is my Summicron killer for very few beans!
I was in the exact same boat - spent too much on switching to the Sony ecosystem and then 3 weeks ago, picked up a Ricoh GRiii and I have absolutely not regrets. Having a pocketable camera makes me excited to go out for walks and see what I can shoot, which is something I’d never do if I was lugging around my heavy Sony.
Excellent! I was thinking to sell my gr as I MUCH prefer the ovf in my 6d2 BUT the image quality of the gr always surprises me despite the fact I don’t like shooting with it. I’ll give it another go. Happy days!
Love my GRIII. I had a GRII. Then had a GRIII. Then convinced myself I could do without it, to sell it for other camera gear. I was wrong. Rebought it soon after.
I'm with you James, I bought a Olympus little pocket camera, all the settings of a DSLR, 2.8 FL and shoots RAW too. Not made any more thouugh. Far superior to phone and looks even a little bit smaller than your. It has a really comfortable hand grip for one handed, and sharp too as yours is. I was pleasantly surprised as well. Cheers
totally unrelated to the GR but as someone who is also local to chester, i can say for sure its one of my favourite places to shoot...just for anyone who cares or is thinking about going lol
Interesting note about the build quality. The body is all metal, only the lens is made from plastic. Maybe it's the weight/size that makes it feel like a "toy" (although an expensive one). My biggest gripe with the GR3 series is the slow focusing. In bright daylight it's fine but once you go inside things start to get slow. The screen however is pretty great, as well as how the touch is implemented. And snap focus should be a thing on all cameras. Kinda miss that on my sony.
For that purpose I have an Olympus Tough TG-6 in my trouser's pocket. Small, light, nearly indestructible, great pictures with superb colors in jpg (it can do raw, but I'm not spending time at a computer for the kind of pictures I take with this camera), plus unbelievable macro skills.
I transitioned to a TG-5 from a GR because of the sensor dust issues with it. The Olympus Tough cameras are the best pocket cameras for extreme environments.
I have the Ricoh GR (the first aps-c version) and while I love it, the main issue that annoys me is that it gets dust on the sensor. I hope this camera doesn't have the same problem...keeping my GR in my pocket made it ideal but because of the dust problem (our pockets are full of it!), I carried a little bag for it which kinda defeated the whole purpose of the camera
I have the 2013 GR too and agree. I had mine cleaned and carry it in a thin cloth bag. How is your battery? Mine is dead and I'm trying to find a replacement to no avail
The whole GR line has the same problem. Have a friend who already had to send it to be cleaned 2 times or had to use the camera with an aperture no higher than f 5.6 so that you don't see the garbage. It is something unacceptable for a camera of that price. They preferred a Canon G7X over that, sufficient quality and reasonable price for a compact.
I've used the Ricoh GR since its inception. It was my go to camera for backcountry hiking trips where weight was at a premium for many years. It's great for street photography, of course.
James, am looking forward to your full review of the GRIII X. I don't need one but I want one. Your videos are the only photography ones on you tube I watch to the end. Keep it up!
@@jwalzer I'm a hobbyist with no interest in making money out of photography, so I tend to shoot whatever I find interesting! My IG is mostly a mix/combination of street, still life, and landscape photography. I just have a strong tendency towards normal focal lengths and telephoto, with very little of my shots being on anything wider than 28mm.
I have recently also been wanting a smaller camera for street and travel photography. Looking like a paparazzi is not very "stealth". I am definitely spending much more money on photography this year, so i picked up a Canon IXUS 70 (SD 1000) from 2009. Gimmicky but also quite usable
If you prefer between 40 and 50, you should really give the Samyang/Rokinon 45mm f1.8 on e mount a try. An absolutely fantastic character lens that doesn't sacrifice sharpness, and insanely cheap. A whole lot of fun to shoot.
What I learned from this video is that everyone will have personal specific wants and needs that won't always make sense to others, so basically it's mostly a question of trying lots of different things until you find what fits. And to not buy too much camera gear... (which is why I am now trading my 35mm lens for a 24mm lens instead of just buying the 24mm and leaving the 35mm to gather dust in a drawer)
I use my 4y/o Sony RX100 II for a pocket camera. I’ve been really happy with it and think it takes very nice photos. My only complaint with it is that the back screen laminate is pretty beat up and I don’t feel like spending $ to replace the screen.
I will stick with my 7 yo design lumix DC-ZS70 (my 2nd copy of it), with it's built in thumb support. View finder, 30x zoom, just love it. And my g9 when I feel adventurous.
GRIIIX owner here. I love it. All the things it may miss (viewfinder, weather sealing) would just make it bigger and ruin its USP. Perfect focal length for every day shooting and short portraits. I used to own an X100V and that's a wonderful camera but I didn't take it everywhere, this I do.
This is my thinking exactly. I have the X100V but don't take it everywhere as I thought I would. I still have to sling it over my shoulder or crossbody to carry it, then it's like... why don't I just take my FF then? It's not THAT much bigger.
The fact that you still have the G9 makes me happier than it really should. Bloody tribalism... Great photos, as usual. Shame about the info table in the old bloke photo though! Edit: no I was wrong, it would probably feel empty without it. I should know better than seeing undesirable elements in your work.
I had considered this camera for the reasons you mention in your video. I ended up with a Fuji XE4 and the 27mm WR lens. While the viewfinder is small, it is quite good. Plus it also has a back screen that flips out which is helpful. Not pocketable but will fit in a pair of cargo pants when I am out and about.
I shoot Sony FF for the high MP count 61. The gear is heavy and having shot Fuji before for a light weight pocketable or portable second system the X-E4 with 27mm was the way to go. I've added a 50--230 and 18-55 both used from MPB and a small should bag from the Mirrorless Mover range. I really like both systems. The X-E4 is a remarkable camera for the size and cost.
Oooooh! One of my favourite cities. Nice little video. Like you, I have more than enough cameras. (68 in total at the last count) but I could quite fancy a GRIIIx.
Welcome. Bought a GR2, sold it, regretted it and just had to go back. Then I sold it again. And then I realised I couldn't live without a GR. Again. So bought another. Even sadder I really did buy the t-shirt as well. Uniqlo currently have a Ricoh GR timeline tee on sale. I think that maybe makes me a little sad!
I thought about getting the Ricoh GR ii back in the day, but ultimately went with a mirrorless. Now I am back on the market and want to get back into street photography. The Ricoh GR iii looks great for a lot of reasons. When I was shooting street back in 2017 with my mirrorless, it was too obtrusive and I wanted to be more discrete. That's why everyone loves the Ricoh. You're basically a ninja and you can capture certain moments better when people around are less "aware" you are holding a mirrorless or full frame.
Your GR3x overview(?) makes me want to take my z30 for a walk 😂 I never planned on doing much photography with it but not being super serious with your eye stuck in a viewfinder looked fun!
“Wave it in the air like you just don’t care” 😂 Sorry but really enjoy framing up with a viewfinder and being able to brace the camera for longer shutter speeds. I got bigger pockets and a Fuji X-E4 with a couple of small wide angle primes!
I dual wield the GR III and GR III x, using a black thumb grip on the GR III and a red thumb grip on the x version, then they go in pockets either side. Works great, the only thing that would make this setup phenomenal would be to have a sync settings mode to link the cameras together over BT and any settings on one instantly updates the other. That way I could easily and quickly swap between cameras without a second thought. Great cameras, my dream would be for Sigma to release a new DP2 Merrill with the Foveon sensor in a slightly more compact body along with better high ISO and auto-focus, that would be the travel camera dream for me.
I'm curranty exploring Full Spectrum/IR Photography with my D3400 and im loving it. its new medium and kind of refreshed my love for photography ! i want to do something very few people have explored and something I've always wanted to do !
Hello James!, why don't you re-visit your trusty G9?, now that you have some time with FF Sony cameras, and see how things have change and also see if your perspective on that camera have changed. Would love to see your thoughts. Also, great vid!
Great video James I live around 40min from Chester myself and do a lot of photography there ,I've never seen it so empty ,what time of the day were you there
It's so funny to me how we convince ourselves we need things like this. I have a couple of full frame cameras (one is a backup), a couple of APS-C (my wife's and my old Sony A5100 that I bought to be pocketable), and a Nikon FA Film camera I was looking for something pocektable and I was looking at the fixed lens cameras, but the A5100 with a 30mm F2.8 is actually ok for that - but I rarely take it out... so why would that change with a GR3? And part of me thinks that if I am going to get a fixed lens camera - I want a Leica Q2. But then that's not pocketable... and it's hard to justify that because I have a Sony FF with a 35mm F2.8 or F1.8, or a 55 F 1.8. And then I would have to pack another big camera when I go on vacation. In the end, I decided to buy a Sony RX100 VI - because in the end if I am taking a small camera in a pocket.... I am generally not in a city (which is what most the fixed lens crew do), and actually I have no idea what I might shoot. I want to sacrifice image quality for flexibility. It working.... but I do miss the IQ.
You can set up a back button focus as well. I've found that to be really helpful as it lets me use the camera completely one handed. I love my GR and it has given me so many great opportunities to shoot because it's always in my pocket when I go out the door.
This is a very interesting camera indeed and I am sure I would love to have one. Some questions for the GRIII lovers though. - Why not buy a small pouch that you can carry on your hip for a small camera that you already own, like the GX-1 that James has? Costs about 30 times less than the GRIII and you keep you pockets free for keys or so. - Why do you consider it pocketable when the first thing you do is buy (extra costs) add-ons to get a decent grip on it and carry around extra batteries and/or powerbanks to keep it operational? Isn't that past the concept of being as light and small as possible? - Why is sharpness such a big thing when you primarily would use it for street photography? I am just curious. Try to convince me?
1/ imo having a small pouch is just having another thing to put on every singlw day. Sometimes i just want something that slips right into my pocket 2/ for me wanting a gr3 for everyday carry, 2 battery is enough. I can always put one in my pouch/bag and put the camera in my hoodie pocket. I doubt that it needs a grip to be usable, although it is nice to have. Also being light and small isnt all about bringing it with me, its also about drawing the camera as quick as possible 3/ having good sharpness is always a good thing tho, right?
My olympus stabilization is the best around. I can hold 2 seconds at night with itwith my arms outstreatched. Glad Ricoh finally put it in and upped the lens to 40mm. I use the Olympus for street and it works great, but the Ricoh might be the ticket for all day with no worries. A lot of my landscapes are 35mm and all hand held except in full dark, so it might work there too. The screen is no issue, have not used a VF in 20 years, since the first digitals came out.
Thanks for making me buy one! My accountant is not happy as well, as I am just an amateur 😅 But I always thought it was about the same size as a x100! Thanks for opening my eyes on how much smaller it was! Really happy so far! I guess the reflex to bring it to my eyes will go away someday.
The Ricoh Gr III is the only camera that really fits in my small backpack for cycling. Great image quality for that size. Battery is a joke, always carry a spare.
Was going for the X100V or XE4 but as stock is nil now I'm aiming to get this one in particular or the next HDF version. Hopefully the stock is available.
I’m sure it’s just me, but James seems to be making me actually laugh out loud as of late. My favorite kind of laugh is of the unexpected kind. James has that in spades. Never change my guy. Awesome content even if it isn’t always relevant to each viewer.
Love my GRiii, a much more pleasing camera than the GRii it replaced (the ii had the tiniest annoying USB socket that I had to buy so many spare cables for to put in various bags). In terms of the build quality I’ve been impressed with Ricoh giving the iii bodies some sealing this time and on the magnesium alloy bodies. They should take a knock and be okay in damp conditions.
Enjoyed this video. I had wondered about the Ricoh. Great, apart from the price.
2 года назад+1
Hello, thanks a lot for sharing your feedback. Did you ever consider transforming one of your camera into an infrared camera, or did you already had one? (BTW I'm not willing to encourage your GAS ^^)
pocketable and great aps-c sensor. I am thinking about purchasing the GRIII x. thanks for the good video. Besides I love the 40mm similar to what we actually see with our eyes.
I have shot with the first (APS-C) GR for years now. My wife recently bought the GRIIIx and is also very happy. The only thing you have to be careful with ist dust. I have to send my GR in for service at some point because of sensor-dust issues. Having said that, I just love my GR because of its size and feel. Some of the best photos I have ever taken were taken with the GR.
The problem of dust on the sensor of this camera is a classic.And no matter how rich I was, I wouldn't buy it because you have to disassemble half a camera to clean it.
I've just returned from 2 week holiday and took my GRiii and Sony a7riii / 40mm f2.5 lens. The Sony hardly left the apartment and I'm really pleased with the 200 or so shots with the GRiii, the colours are great and the shots are sharp. Will definately be saving my pennies for the GRiiix .
Nice to see you still have the old G9. I love my GX9 with a 14mm or 20mm pancake lens. It doesn't fit in my pocket, but it's close. And interchangeable lenses, for the win!
Hi James, I thought for a minute there where you showed that knife, you were going to drop in a moment from Crocodile Dundee ... "call that a knife ..." but then it was just used to open boxes, mainly containing cameras .. you crack me up!
The GR is a revelation. I am constantly amazed by what it produces. Its an extension of my body. Warning though..do not drop it! I dropped mine from waist height and it was buggered.......I went straight out and bought another, it's that good...bought a strap too.
when you did your travel camera video i was shouting at the screen "get a GR3!" lol, love mine, if its good enough for Sean Tucker, good enough for me. also, check out RICOH GR Photography channel too.
Nice vid,lovely frames.A very credible assessment as to why the GR111X is better than an iPhone….love the iPhone but the GR is fabulous quality in a camera body that reminds me of a 90s compact.
As a GR owner (and pro shooter) - don’t pocket this camera. If you have any lint at all in your pockets (we all do). This camera will literally suction the fluff into the lens mechanism when you turn it on. It creates low pressure inside the body as the lens extends and opens the lens shields - and becomes a mini Dyson vacuum cleaner. Plenty of stories online about it. Great little camera tho
So where to keep it?
I’ve been using it for 2 years, travelled around South America for 6 months, in my bag or pocket.. still working perfectly
I've always heard of people saying this happens. I've used it for years and keep it in my pocket. No lint.
hope it'll be alright with the case. the main reason I want to get one is to always have a camera on me while also being able to go out bagless if I want to.
The build quality is actually quite good. The body is magnesium alloy, just the surface texture might have given you the wrong impression of it being plastic. One improvement would have made me love it more is weather sealing.
Oh I thought a main complaint is that the weather sealing wasn't good, I would love to be proven wrong though :)
@@Pilpup my understanding is that it does not have weather sealing. And dust has been traditionally a problem with GR cameras.
I agree with your comment on build quality. Ive had the GR III for a few years and I’d say its build quality has shown up well. Ive also never had a problem with dust.
Dust problems typically occur as a result of non-use storage where lint and dust lives: pants pockets, jacket pockets, etc. Solution: use a lens cap when not in use. For instance: JJC Aluminum Lens Cap Cover Protector for Ricoh GR IIIx GRIIIx GR III GRIII GR II GRII with Soft EVA Interior. In the neighborhood of $15 on Amazon.
@@Pilpup Well.. I went kayaking and fell in the water with my GRiiiX in my pocket. It took 2 weeks to dry in rice, but the camera still works like a dream. Not really weather sealed, but it survived being under water
The fact that James finds the screen good for bright sunny days, while literally every other person on the internet and their dog complained about the brightness of the screen, really says a lot about what brits call "bright and sunny" 😁
Good point! Can’t trust him! 😅
It is a lovely camera for sure but the small battery means a dull screen with reasonable battery life or a bright(ish) screen with bad battery life. These days the phone makers are putting massive batteries in phones like the Samsung A54 & screen brightness is really good.
😂😂
My pocket system is my old lumix GM1 micro 4/3 . Two tiny lenses , 12-32mm and a 35-100mm. A complete pocket system. Old, only 16mp but still takes great shots 👍
Bout time!! Wooo! I’m glad you tried this camera. Perfect pocket cam.
Picked up mine yesterday and can't stop using it. Bought the Hot Shoe EVF 40 and four extra camera batteries. Already have a case and power bank. Bought it used but came with a hot shoe thumb grip and wrist strap which I bought me a smaller one and using it. Have the battery charger and usb cable. Loving it and already took 200 photos and videos. Going to the Chinese Tea Garden and the Zoo today. Cheers!
"...heres my new camera"
Oh wow Chester..... such an lovely city.... my home town....I used to live 10 minutes walk fron the Groves and went to school near there..... some nice photos you've taken
The Ricoh GR cameras have a very sturdy magnesium alloy body. Since the material is very light, it might not feel like a brick. For me, sturdy and light is the perfect combination.
I thought the most recent GR III and X were plastic bodies. Nice to know they are not.
My GR is light, but I know it's a sturdy camera. Before I purchased it I read the specs 😊
I thought the issue with this camera was the sealing? It's known to collect dust or, in this case, pocket lint into the censor when turning it on and off. I read a lot about these issues, which is pretty common on many reviews videos/forums etc.
@@JonasMondrup I've read that as well. But in 9 years with my GR, GR III and GR IIIx I never had an issue. On the other hand, I never understood how people would just shove a tool like this in a pants pocket. Why not use a pouch or maybe a simple sleeve, like those thin mini outdoor packing bags? Remember those 'socks' for your mobile phone from pre-smartphone times? That works as well to keep pocket lint away.
Glad to have your channel to watch after work, helping me transition into my photography brain, Cheers.
The Ricoh GR III cameras are pretty much unique in what they offer in such a small package. The image quality is insane for such a pocketable device. If I could afford a second camera beyond my regular Pentax APS-C DSLR system, I would have already got one.
Pentax users Unite!
Pentax here too! I personally don't have use for point and cameras like this, but I have recommended it to others looking for something better than your typical P&S without going to a DSLR.
I’ve got a GRIII recently and love it . My Fuji X-T2 stays at home on days out . The image quality is fantastic, there is a good community around it and great photographers like Sean Tucker using it ..
Hmmm the Nikon Coolpix A is a large sensor (APS-C) pocketable camera with a very good 28mm f2.8 equivalent lens. Yes, it's "old" and "only" 16MP and has some weird UI quirks, but it makes lovely photos.
Pentaxian here...I have my 5th GR now with the GRIII being with me whenever I leave the house. For travel i extend my set with the K1 when i want to carry heavier luggage or a Fuji X-T1 with the fantastic 18-135mm when I need it lighter (my problem is that I also carry additional cameras with me depending on what I picked of the shelf because it needs some usage to not get dusty so either my ME, LX, or/and one of the M's get some fresh air ;-)
With what am i taking the most photos? GRIII...
I am still shy to have a closer look at the IIIx .... another camera - oh nooo....
Oh Richo cameras are amazing. I have a Richo GR2 and the jpegs are absolutely amazing, so much so I never bother editing RAW. They produce magical photos
I have the original 28mm and I have to agree the most impressive thing about this little camera is how sharp the images are! Snap Focus is also a feature that sets it apart.
I picked up a GRiii earlier this year, had been holding off for months and months, but it is the best quality camera in small take everywhere size, love it
Same here, the price tag is kind of hefty for a small camera like that but i ended up find one from OfferUp for $600. It was pretty much new, only 20 photos according to the shutter count. The guy said he didn’t like it so he just wanted to get rid of it. lol
One man’s trash, is another man’s treasure. 😂
Yup, the pocketability is a major factor. Main reason I swapped out the 100v for the x70 is just down to the size. I would have gone for the GR over the x70, but the Fuji has a tilt screen which really helps for low angle stuff.
I just bought the Ricoh GR1 for the same reasons. I took it to the Oregon coast to test it out.
Another one here loving his GrX 👋
Didn't miss a beat walking around London last week. Battery in each pocket though....
i've looked at these for the exact same reasons as you. thought it would be nice to have a "pocketable" camera but ultimately solved my problem by just using a cross-body bag.
Love my GR3 ,I sold my Leica Q2 after using my GR3 for 2 weeks.Amazing Camera
I have the GRiii and love love love it for all the reasons you state. In the process of selling it to switch to a GRiiix. But as you point out: if a camera doesn't fit in your jeans pocket it doesn't really matter if it is fuji x100v-sized or sony a7iv-sized, you still have to lug it around your shoulder or in a bag.
My camera for those purposes is a Canon G7x mk1. I use it when cycling with a group, taking pics while riding. Fits in a jersey pocket or a small feed bag on my handlebars. So I do take some risks with it, but it was only $350 USD in a pawn shop 4 years ago. Not a huge loss if I drop it and I can buy another one like it cheaply.
I feel just like you do. The image quality produced by this Ricoh GRIII X is simply amazing !Before having acquired one, I just could not imagine that such a small thing could take such photos !!
James, you never disappoint in the humor department!😂!
Or, in your content in any video for that matter...
Thanks for a fun video!
" I've swallowed bigger pain killers!" 🤣🤣🤣🤣 James, I nearly fell off my chair!
I shoot on a K3 III and KP but I make sure my GR3 is always with me wherever I go. I absolutely ADORE that camera! Ricoh knocked it out of the park with that one.
I was skeptical too but I got one and now I carry it all the time. It’s become my go to street camera. The 40mm was what really did the trick, so thanks Ricoh for the “X”. Not sure you’ve discovered Snap Focus yet. It’s awesome.
I have the original GR film camera, great piece of kit
You make me smile, I enjoy your content so much. You say you are not a "gear guy" is like saying I'm not addicted to photography and feel somewhat melancholy when I don't go out and get away from the world. You my friend will buy more cameras as it is a side effect of the illness, and I will continue to feed my appetite to get away from the clamouring world of man and find serenity in nature
Welcome to the GR family ! I love my griiix. It’s always in my pocket and the perfect edc for family trips and amazing for street. Pretty dang versatile camera with a sharper than sharp lens 🤝🏼🤘🏼
Welcome aboard the Ricoh Train. Glad you’re enjoying using it. As you say, it’s a great piece of kit. Only just moved from my ageing Panasonic GX7 to the GR3. Great move for me. 👌🏻
Perfect timing! My Ricoh GRiii is out for delivery and arriving today. Going to be the camera I carry when out on my bike.
I use my 8.1 megapixel Ricoh GR digital from 2005. 28mm equivalent lens. I love it for black and white street. So small and discreet.
Ricoh make their lenses from magic glass. My 50mm f2 K mount Rikenon is my Summicron killer for very few beans!
I was in the exact same boat - spent too much on switching to the Sony ecosystem and then 3 weeks ago, picked up a Ricoh GRiii and I have absolutely not regrets. Having a pocketable camera makes me excited to go out for walks and see what I can shoot, which is something I’d never do if I was lugging around my heavy Sony.
Excellent! I was thinking to sell my gr as I MUCH prefer the ovf in my 6d2 BUT the image quality of the gr always surprises me despite the fact I don’t like shooting with it. I’ll give it another go. Happy days!
Love my GRIII. I had a GRII. Then had a GRIII. Then convinced myself I could do without it, to sell it for other camera gear. I was wrong. Rebought it soon after.
I'm with you James, I bought a Olympus little pocket camera, all the settings of a DSLR, 2.8 FL and shoots RAW too. Not made any more thouugh. Far superior to phone and looks even a little bit smaller than your. It has a really comfortable hand grip for one handed, and sharp too as yours is. I was pleasantly surprised as well. Cheers
totally unrelated to the GR but as someone who is also local to chester, i can say for sure its one of my favourite places to shoot...just for anyone who cares or is thinking about going lol
Interesting note about the build quality. The body is all metal, only the lens is made from plastic. Maybe it's the weight/size that makes it feel like a "toy" (although an expensive one).
My biggest gripe with the GR3 series is the slow focusing. In bright daylight it's fine but once you go inside things start to get slow.
The screen however is pretty great, as well as how the touch is implemented. And snap focus should be a thing on all cameras. Kinda miss that on my sony.
For that purpose I have an Olympus Tough TG-6 in my trouser's pocket. Small, light, nearly indestructible, great pictures with superb colors in jpg (it can do raw, but I'm not spending time at a computer for the kind of pictures I take with this camera), plus unbelievable macro skills.
I transitioned to a TG-5 from a GR because of the sensor dust issues with it. The Olympus Tough cameras are the best pocket cameras for extreme environments.
I have the Ricoh GR (the first aps-c version) and while I love it, the main issue that annoys me is that it gets dust on the sensor. I hope this camera doesn't have the same problem...keeping my GR in my pocket made it ideal but because of the dust problem (our pockets are full of it!), I carried a little bag for it which kinda defeated the whole purpose of the camera
I have the 2013 GR too and agree. I had mine cleaned and carry it in a thin cloth bag. How is your battery? Mine is dead and I'm trying to find a replacement to no avail
The whole GR line has the same problem. Have a friend who already had to send it to be cleaned 2 times or had to use the camera with an aperture no higher than f 5.6 so that you don't see the garbage. It is something unacceptable for a camera of that price. They preferred a Canon G7X over that, sufficient quality and reasonable price for a compact.
I've used the Ricoh GR since its inception. It was my go to camera for backcountry hiking trips where weight was at a premium for many years. It's great for street photography, of course.
This is a camera I've wanted to own for a long time. I had just kind of stopped thinking about it recently..... Thanks
Love the man on the bench shot. One sandal and one sock and shoe.
James, am looking forward to your full review of the GRIII X. I don't need one but I want one. Your videos are the only photography ones on you tube I watch to the end. Keep it up!
I really love my GR3, but I really want to swap it out for the GR3x. The focal length is just so much better for the type of photography I do.
I got the GRIII last week and just switched, the 40mm eq. is so much more fitting to me personally in the situation I will use it most in
Dave, what type of photography do you do if you don't mind me asking - thx
@@misteragb7558 what sort of photography do you do?
@@jwalzer I'm a hobbyist with no interest in making money out of photography, so I tend to shoot whatever I find interesting! My IG is mostly a mix/combination of street, still life, and landscape photography.
I just have a strong tendency towards normal focal lengths and telephoto, with very little of my shots being on anything wider than 28mm.
How is the battery of the GRiii?
I have recently also been wanting a smaller camera for street and travel photography. Looking like a paparazzi is not very "stealth". I am definitely spending much more money on photography this year, so i picked up a Canon IXUS 70 (SD 1000) from 2009. Gimmicky but also quite usable
If you prefer between 40 and 50, you should really give the Samyang/Rokinon 45mm f1.8 on e mount a try. An absolutely fantastic character lens that doesn't sacrifice sharpness, and insanely cheap. A whole lot of fun to shoot.
What I learned from this video is that everyone will have personal specific wants and needs that won't always make sense to others, so basically it's mostly a question of trying lots of different things until you find what fits. And to not buy too much camera gear... (which is why I am now trading my 35mm lens for a 24mm lens instead of just buying the 24mm and leaving the 35mm to gather dust in a drawer)
Brilliant! I love my GR III (28mm equiv.). I also bought the first GRD back in 2005 -- still using it. Wonderful kit. I use the GR III for landscapes.
I’d love to see what you can do with the macro feature. … as far as showing how much magnification you can get.
Was looking at the Ricoh as well a few weeks ago. Not sure yet. But looks like a great one, but quiet expensive.
I use my 4y/o Sony RX100 II for a pocket camera. I’ve been really happy with it and think it takes very nice photos. My only complaint with it is that the back screen laminate is pretty beat up and I don’t feel like spending $ to replace the screen.
“I’ve swallowed bigger pain killers” … is the best one I’ve here so far! 😂😂😂
I will stick with my 7 yo design lumix DC-ZS70 (my 2nd copy of it), with it's built in thumb support. View finder, 30x zoom, just love it. And my g9 when I feel adventurous.
GRIIIX owner here. I love it. All the things it may miss (viewfinder, weather sealing) would just make it bigger and ruin its USP. Perfect focal length for every day shooting and short portraits. I used to own an X100V and that's a wonderful camera but I didn't take it everywhere, this I do.
This is my thinking exactly. I have the X100V but don't take it everywhere as I thought I would. I still have to sling it over my shoulder or crossbody to carry it, then it's like... why don't I just take my FF then? It's not THAT much bigger.
@@V3ryM3tal exactly. I don't even have another camera now either. Just the Ricoh and my Pixel 6. Take a lot more photos.
The fact that you still have the G9 makes me happier than it really should. Bloody tribalism...
Great photos, as usual. Shame about the info table in the old bloke photo though! Edit: no I was wrong, it would probably feel empty without it. I should know better than seeing undesirable elements in your work.
I had considered this camera for the reasons you mention in your video. I ended up with a Fuji XE4 and the 27mm WR lens. While the viewfinder is small, it is quite good. Plus it also has a back screen that flips out which is helpful. Not pocketable but will fit in a pair of cargo pants when I am out and about.
I shoot Sony FF for the high MP count 61. The gear is heavy and having shot Fuji before for a light weight pocketable or portable second system the X-E4 with 27mm was the way to go. I've added a 50--230 and 18-55 both used from MPB and a small should bag from the Mirrorless Mover range. I really like both systems. The X-E4 is a remarkable camera for the size and cost.
Oooooh! One of my favourite cities. Nice little video. Like you, I have more than enough cameras. (68 in total at the last count) but I could quite fancy a GRIIIx.
Welcome. Bought a GR2, sold it, regretted it and just had to go back. Then I sold it again. And then I realised I couldn't live without a GR. Again. So bought another. Even sadder I really did buy the t-shirt as well. Uniqlo currently have a Ricoh GR timeline tee on sale. I think that maybe makes me a little sad!
I thought about getting the Ricoh GR ii back in the day, but ultimately went with a mirrorless. Now I am back on the market and want to get back into street photography. The Ricoh GR iii looks great for a lot of reasons. When I was shooting street back in 2017 with my mirrorless, it was too obtrusive and I wanted to be more discrete. That's why everyone loves the Ricoh. You're basically a ninja and you can capture certain moments better when people around are less "aware" you are holding a mirrorless or full frame.
Your GR3x overview(?) makes me want to take my z30 for a walk 😂 I never planned on doing much photography with it but not being super serious with your eye stuck in a viewfinder looked fun!
“Wave it in the air like you just don’t care” 😂 Sorry but really enjoy framing up with a viewfinder and being able to brace the camera for longer shutter speeds. I got bigger pockets and a Fuji X-E4 with a couple of small wide angle primes!
A really big thanks for the tip James! Today we visited Chester and we liked the town so much ! Cheers, Bart
I dual wield the GR III and GR III x, using a black thumb grip on the GR III and a red thumb grip on the x version, then they go in pockets either side. Works great, the only thing that would make this setup phenomenal would be to have a sync settings mode to link the cameras together over BT and any settings on one instantly updates the other. That way I could easily and quickly swap between cameras without a second thought.
Great cameras, my dream would be for Sigma to release a new DP2 Merrill with the Foveon sensor in a slightly more compact body along with better high ISO and auto-focus, that would be the travel camera dream for me.
Channel your inner Sean Tucker. I would love a video or discussion with you two.
Agreed... Sean is amazing.
I got a Lumix DC-TZ90 30xzoom for a pocket camera. I love it!
I'm curranty exploring Full Spectrum/IR Photography with my D3400 and im loving it. its new medium and kind of refreshed my love for photography ! i want to do something very few people have explored and something I've always wanted to do !
I was surprised about your thoughts concerning the ergonomics. It's the easiest one-handed operation on a camera I ever used.
Hello James!, why don't you re-visit your trusty G9?, now that you have some time with FF Sony cameras, and see how things have change and also see if your perspective on that camera have changed. Would love to see your thoughts. Also, great vid!
Great video James
I live around 40min from Chester myself and do a lot of photography there ,I've never seen it so empty ,what time of the day were you there
Big fan of small cameras. I use a Lumix GF3, GX80 and a Canon 100D, all with pancakes. Must have built in flash in a compact.
Ditto… bought the thumb rest when I got my GRIIIX… as well as the JJC battery charger and two extra batteries.
It's so funny to me how we convince ourselves we need things like this. I have a couple of full frame cameras (one is a backup), a couple of APS-C (my wife's and my old Sony A5100 that I bought to be pocketable), and a Nikon FA Film camera I was looking for something pocektable and I was looking at the fixed lens cameras, but the A5100 with a 30mm F2.8 is actually ok for that - but I rarely take it out... so why would that change with a GR3? And part of me thinks that if I am going to get a fixed lens camera - I want a Leica Q2. But then that's not pocketable... and it's hard to justify that because I have a Sony FF with a 35mm F2.8 or F1.8, or a 55 F 1.8. And then I would have to pack another big camera when I go on vacation. In the end, I decided to buy a Sony RX100 VI - because in the end if I am taking a small camera in a pocket.... I am generally not in a city (which is what most the fixed lens crew do), and actually I have no idea what I might shoot. I want to sacrifice image quality for flexibility. It working.... but I do miss the IQ.
Great camera, amazing lens, great city
You can set up a back button focus as well. I've found that to be really helpful as it lets me use the camera completely one handed. I love my GR and it has given me so many great opportunities to shoot because it's always in my pocket when I go out the door.
This is a very interesting camera indeed and I am sure I would love to have one. Some questions for the GRIII lovers though.
- Why not buy a small pouch that you can carry on your hip for a small camera that you already own, like the GX-1 that James has? Costs about 30 times less than the GRIII and you keep you pockets free for keys or so.
- Why do you consider it pocketable when the first thing you do is buy (extra costs) add-ons to get a decent grip on it and carry around extra batteries and/or powerbanks to keep it operational? Isn't that past the concept of being as light and small as possible?
- Why is sharpness such a big thing when you primarily would use it for street photography?
I am just curious. Try to convince me?
1/ imo having a small pouch is just having another thing to put on every singlw day. Sometimes i just want something that slips right into my pocket
2/ for me wanting a gr3 for everyday carry, 2 battery is enough. I can always put one in my pouch/bag and put the camera in my hoodie pocket. I doubt that it needs a grip to be usable, although it is nice to have.
Also being light and small isnt all about bringing it with me, its also about drawing the camera as quick as possible
3/ having good sharpness is always a good thing tho, right?
@@quanggiauten9269 Thank you Quang 🙂
With you being a Sony user now did you look at the RX100 range, it is definitely pocketable.
My olympus stabilization is the best around. I can hold 2 seconds at night with itwith my arms outstreatched. Glad Ricoh finally put it in and upped the lens to 40mm. I use the Olympus for street and it works great, but the Ricoh might be the ticket for all day with no worries. A lot of my landscapes are 35mm and all hand held except in full dark, so it might work there too. The screen is no issue, have not used a VF in 20 years, since the first digitals came out.
love your video and I love also my Ricoh GR3 and now you now have a gear channel ;-) thank you for your videos!!!
Thanks for making me buy one! My accountant is not happy as well, as I am just an amateur 😅 But I always thought it was about the same size as a x100! Thanks for opening my eyes on how much smaller it was! Really happy so far! I guess the reflex to bring it to my eyes will go away someday.
The Ricoh Gr III is the only camera that really fits in my small backpack for cycling. Great image quality for that size. Battery is a joke, always carry a spare.
Was going for the X100V or XE4 but as stock is nil now I'm aiming to get this one in particular or the next HDF version. Hopefully the stock is available.
Love the way you talk about stuff James.
I’m sure it’s just me, but James seems to be making me actually laugh out loud as of late. My favorite kind of laugh is of the unexpected kind. James has that in spades. Never change my guy. Awesome content even if it isn’t always relevant to each viewer.
You're the reason why i have a gear addiction.... and im not mad about it... but my girlfriend and wallet are.
Love my GRiii, a much more pleasing camera than the GRii it replaced (the ii had the tiniest annoying USB socket that I had to buy so many spare cables for to put in various bags). In terms of the build quality I’ve been impressed with Ricoh giving the iii bodies some sealing this time and on the magnesium alloy bodies. They should take a knock and be okay in damp conditions.
Enjoyed this video. I had wondered about the Ricoh. Great, apart from the price.
Hello, thanks a lot for sharing your feedback.
Did you ever consider transforming one of your camera into an infrared camera, or did you already had one? (BTW I'm not willing to encourage your GAS ^^)
"I don't need to spend any more money on cameras. In other unrelated news...here's my new camera."
Brilliant
pocketable and great aps-c sensor. I am thinking about purchasing the GRIII x. thanks for the good video. Besides I love the 40mm similar to what we actually see with our eyes.
You make a good case! Pocketability is *such* a boon!
What about comparing it to the old Tz200 from Panasonic that's dirt cheap lol and has 15x zoom with 1" sensor.... Fits in your pocket too
I have shot with the first (APS-C) GR for years now. My wife recently bought the GRIIIx and is also very happy. The only thing you have to be careful with ist dust. I have to send my GR in for service at some point because of sensor-dust issues. Having said that, I just love my GR because of its size and feel. Some of the best photos I have ever taken were taken with the GR.
The problem of dust on the sensor of this camera is a classic.And no matter how rich I was, I wouldn't buy it because you have to disassemble half a camera to clean it.
I've just returned from 2 week holiday and took my GRiii and Sony a7riii / 40mm f2.5 lens. The Sony hardly left the apartment and I'm really pleased with the 200 or so shots with the GRiii, the colours are great and the shots are sharp. Will definately be saving my pennies for the GRiiix .
Nice to see you still have the old G9.
I love my GX9 with a 14mm or 20mm pancake lens. It doesn't fit in my pocket, but it's close.
And interchangeable lenses, for the win!
Buy bigger pockets.
@@besperus4475
Lol. Not necessary. It fits easily into my ever present messenger bag.
Hi James, I thought for a minute there where you showed that knife, you were going to drop in a moment from Crocodile Dundee ... "call that a knife ..." but then it was just used to open boxes, mainly containing cameras .. you crack me up!
The GR is a revelation. I am constantly amazed by what it produces. Its an extension of my body. Warning though..do not drop it! I dropped mine from waist height and it was buggered.......I went straight out and bought another, it's that good...bought a strap too.
when you did your travel camera video i was shouting at the screen "get a GR3!" lol, love mine, if its good enough for Sean Tucker, good enough for me. also, check out RICOH GR Photography channel too.
Nice vid,lovely frames.A very credible assessment as to why the GR111X is better than an iPhone….love the iPhone but the GR is fabulous quality in a camera body that reminds me of a 90s compact.
Love the compositions of your photos! I've been tempted by the Ricoh for some time.