RETURN OF RICOH & PENTAX

Ricoh, which also owns the Pentax brand, is kicking off its activity for 2020 with some new product announcements.

These include the Ricoh WG-70 (£279.99 SRP), the latest version of its toughened waterproof camera (above) that can withstand being dunked to depths of up to 14 metres and which features a Digital Microscope mode and 5x optical zoom (boasting a focal reach approximately 28mm to 140mm in 35mm film terms). The camera can also withstand a drop from a height of 1.6 metres, is dustproof, freezeproof down to temperatures of -10°C and ‘crushproof’ against pressures of 100kgf (kilogram force). Keeping things simple, the ‘upgrade’ features a 2.7-inch LCD and Full HD movies at 30fps. Colours to choose from are either black or orange.

The brand also has a new 360° camera in the Ricoh Theta SC2 for Business (below). The no-nonsense looking grey coloured device is described as an entry-level model, featuring easy to use preset modes for shooting in business environments and an exclusive business service pack. A 36-month warranty is provided as standard, as is a USB cable and dedicated case. Specification wise, we get a bright f/2 aperture lens and an output of 14 megapixels. Alternatively an improved sensor and image-processing engine allows for the shooting of 4K resolution video at 30fps for up to three minutes.

In Pentax news, there’s a new telephoto zoom for its full frame DSLRs in the HD Pentax-D FA 70-210mm f/4 ED SDM WR, which is described as being perfect for a range of shooting scenarios, including nature and scenic photography, as it also boasts a weather resistant construction. The optic incorporates a ring type SDM (Supersonic Direct-drive Motor) to assure a quiet, high speed AF operation and features Pentax’s latest HD (High Definition) coating. www.ricoh.com