Episode 014: The Ricoh GR IIIx

A True Pocket Camera

Perspective - A Quick Review of the Ricoh GR IIIx

Before I share how much I love the Ricoh GR IIIx, let me explain why I wasn't fond of the Ricoh GR III. The GR series consists of small, pocketable cameras equipped with a 28mm lens. I have a strong love for compact cameras, whether it's the Olympus XA2, a Sony RX100Va, the Nikon Life Touch, or any other camera that can easily fit in my pocket.

A few years ago, I decided to try the GR III with its 28mm lens, thinking it would be perfect for me. Unfortunately, I realized that I don't particularly like the 28mm focal length; I’ve always preferred the 50mm. As a result, after using the GR III for two weeks, I returned it to Amazon.

Fast forward to when Ricoh introduced the GR IIIx with a 40mm lens, and I knew right away that this was the camera for me.

I've owned the GRIIIx for just over six months now, and I’ve captured some of my favorite photos with it. The main reason for this is that, when I'm not at work, the GR IIIx has a permanent place in my back pocket. Whether I'm running to Home Depot to pick up a tool I forgot to replace a faucet, heading to a wedding in North Carolina, or going on vacation to Disney World, it's so easy to carry along that it feels like a no-brainer. It's not just the size that makes it worth having; the sensor and lens are outstanding as well.

The Ricoh GR IIIx features an APS-C format CMOS sensor with 24 megapixels, paired with a remarkable 40mm f/2.8 lens. This combination of the APS-C sensor and the 40mm lens is what sets the camera apart. I remember taking it out for a photo walk around Norfolk, and when I reviewed the photos in Lightroom, they reminded me a lot of the images from the Fujifilm X-T4. I can best describe the experience of using the GR IIIx as akin to having an X-T4 in my pocket, complete with colors that match.

This is a small camera with an impressive lens and beautiful colors. There must be a drawback, right? I heard that battery life can be an issue; however, I've never needed the spare battery I purchased, even while shooting photos at Disney World on vacation. Perhaps the ergonomic design of the camera is a concern. Personally, I believe that adding extra grips and bulk detracts from one of its best features: being able to fit the camera in your pocket.

That said, I might be overhyping it, but I do wish the camera had some features from the Sony RX100Va. I also regret not getting the HDF version, which includes a built-in diffusion filter. The two features of the RX100Va that I find appealing are the built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF) and the secondary battery case that also serves as a charger. As for the HDF version, I feel I would use the diffusion filter much more than the ND filter included in my version.

The issue I face is similar to buying a two-seat car and wishing it had room for car seats. The GR IIIx isn't designed like the RX100Va, which showcases Sony's ability to pack as many of features as possible into a camera the size of a deck of cards. Ultimately, I acknowledge my mistake in not waiting for the HDF version. I will hold out when I get the new version, if it comes next year.

Regardless, let’s return to why I love the GR IIIx, and it isn’t necessarily due to any specific feature. It’s the feeling I get when I look at a photo taken with this camera. There’s a sense that the photos are bigger than the camera itself, and that magic keeps me reaching for it as I head out the door. We’ve become so used to viewing photos on six-inch screens that it’s hard to differentiate between cameras these days. However, when I print photos or view them on my LG C4 TV, which also serves as my editing monitor, there’s a quality to the images that rivals the Sony A7IV and any other full-frame camera I’ve owned. That, to me, is truly impressive.

It raises the question: why bring a much larger and heavier camera while running errands or on vacation? The truth is, I stopped taking my A7IV with me and even sold it for a smaller Nikon Zf. Cameras like the GR IIIx and other compact models make me question the necessity of larger, more professional cameras. Especially when I'm happy with something smaller and easier to use.

I've been asking myself, "Do I prefer having a professional camera kit because I genuinely need it, or do I just enjoy the fact that I own it?" I've come to realize that it's the latter, I simply enjoy owning high-quality Sony GM lenses, knowing I have them if needed, even though I never really do. The GR IIIx might have been a symptom of having G.A.S., but it also turned out to be something I needed to cure it too. (Minus buying a Nikon Zf last week lol).

Let me know in the comments if the Ricoh GR interests you or if you already own one. Also, which version would you choose, the 28mm or the 40mm?

Artist in Focus - Luis Chavez

I want to take a moment to highlight Luis Chavez while I have your attention. Luis has a wonderful YouTube channel and is also a talented photographer. I really appreciate his family-oriented approach to photography, and he is genuinely a great person to talk to about his craft. Here are a few examples of his work, along with a link to his social media accounts if you'd like to see more. 

Instagram - www.instagram.com/luichavez

YouTube - www.youtube.com/@luischavezphoto

Two Hour Radio - Benton Falls

This episode of Two Hour Radio features the band Benton Falls from 2003. Side note: 2003 feels like it was just yesterday, but I suppose that shows my age! The song "This Housecall Could Kill" by Benton Falls has been in heavy rotation for me since then, and with around 4,700 monthly listeners on Spotify, I can't be the only one who loves it. Check it out when you get a chance, and let me know what you think!

Developing News - Sold the Sony, Bought a Nikon

In recent news, I've sold all my Sony gear. Although I really enjoyed using it, I found it to be overkill for my needs on most days. I ended up purchasing a Nikon Zf along with the 40mm and 28mm lenses. So far, I'm really liking it, it’s a lot of fun to shoot with! I think I’ll make this the topic for my next episode, so if there’s anything specific you’d like me to cover, please leave a comment below. I’ll be there to answer any questions, and it will help me understand what you’re interested in reading and seeing. Thanks for sticking around until the end! I hope you have a wonderful day and that all your photos are in focus. See you real soon!