A look at the Ricoh GXR Camera
I'll start today's post with a confession. I am an early adopter and willing to try things. Right now I'm smitten with the New Ricoh GXR interchangable camera system. I blew it off on first impression, but am seriously considering adding one of these to my camera collection. Let me explain.
Handling - I love my Panasonic GF1, but have some substantial issues with the handling and physical characteristics. I still love it and it is my primary camera right now, but I can't help but long for better handling as I miss shots because of it. On paper and in discussion with other users, the GXR answers those questions and addresses my issues. The functionality and customization far surpass the GF1. The build is superior and it provides a pretty darn good grip, which for me is critical as I often grab the camera while moving for shots like the one below.

Compact - While my Canon S90is is actually smaller than the GXR, the Ricoh is very similar to the GF1. It's the perfect size for me. Some might argue that the 50mm lens unit of the GXR is bigger than the GF1 with pancake, I would concur. But....I don't own the 20mm pancake. I've been shooting with the 14-45 and the Ricoh is actually smaller.
Variability - I often switch camera I am taking based on the need. Sometimes I want to carry the smaller and lighter point and shoot camera. Other times I want to carry a larger camera for certain shots. The Ricoh allows this....And retains identical operation between both formats. This is a first and a significant reason that GXR appeals to me. Right now, I have mulitple cameras that all operate with different operating systems, controls and menues. The GXR could replace both my GF1 and my Canon S90. Two cameras in one.
APSC sensor - For several months over this past winter, I put my GF1 down and started carrying my Nikon D90 with 35mm (50mm equivalent). I did this for the sole reason of image quality. While the GF1 sensor is good, I am doing more with my images and like to shoot the larger sensor camera for images I have specific needs or plans.
DNG - I like shooting RAW DNG
Many have argued that the price is high and the focus speed is slow. I have also heard a good comment in that sensor technology is changing rapidly, new sensors would make the whole lens unit obsolete. I will do my best to address my take on each of thes. Also note I have not shot with the GXR. These are my beliefs and relate to how I envision this camera in use for me.
- If focus speed is a deal breaker for you, then this is a big deal. For me I can appreciate the fast focus of the GF1, but I don't require it for a great majority of my shooting. If I need fast focusing or are taking images of moving subjects, I still use my Nikon DSLR. To date, smaller cameras just can't match the speed, image quality and consistency of the images.
- Price. It is expensive. But...Add up the prices of my other cameras and accessories. GF1 with 20mm is roughly $900. Now...Throw in the Canon S90 at about $375. That is 1275. While the GXR with both lens units is roughly $1600, it is not THAT far apart and given what you get, the money may be well spent.
- Sensor technology. This for me is the toughest one to address. Sensor technology is changing rapidly. It would be a shame to throw away a "lens unit" because a new sensor is out and requires new glass to go with it. But...In my experience a photographer learns how to maximize what they have. Lenses and cameras are tools and I think that each and every lens or lens unit is still a tool and can be used for certain jobs. Maybe not all jobs, but I know I still use some old stuff and in reading reviews, the glass on the 50mm lens unit is superb.
For me, I am still thinking about it. I just wish Ricoh would give a better road map of lenses with larger than compact sensors. Right now that is the only piece holding me back from putting serious time and thought into selling current equipment and replacing with Ricoh.


Thursday, April 1, 2010 at 4:00AM





