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Ricoh Caplio GX100

Posted June 23rd, 2008

ricoh-caplio-gx100.jpg

Zoom: 3x Wide Angle
Megapixels: 10
Price Type: Mid-Range
Buy This Online: Click Here

The Caplio GX100 compact digital camera with 24 to 72 mm equivalent wide zoom lens is a first in the digital camera category with a removable electronic viewfinder. The Caplio GX100 is a superior model that achieves high picture quality thanks to the high-speed F2.5 aperture and high-performance 24 to 72 mm wide zoom lens (35mm film equivalent), 10.01 megapixel CCD, and “Smooth Imaging Engine II” crammed into a compact body just 25mm thick - a first in the digital camera category.

The Caplio GX100 is the successor to the popular Caplio GX8. Caplio GX8 was a highly practical superior model featuring comprehensive manual shooting functions and the expandability to allow system upgrades to meet various applications. The Caplio GX100 is a high-performance camera cram packed with advanced functions including:

(1) a 24 to 72 mm equivalent high-performance wide zoom lens(Caplio GX8: 28 to 85 mm equivalent) that can be expanded to even ultra-wide-angle shooting equivalent to 19 mm using the optional wide conversionlens:

(2) being the first digital camera to support a removable electronic viewfinder (LCD viewfinder), and

(3) high image quality thanks to the 10.01 megapixel effective CCD (Caplio GX8: 8.24 megapixel) and popular Smooth Imaging Engine II image processing

The lens adaptor and lens hood are very nice. The quality of both is good. The HA-2 adapter allows for use of filters, which is also nice. I have a UV on mine. My camera kit also came with a Lowepro camera neoprene camera case. While I like Lowepro, the case is a snug fit and is only big enough to hold the camera with no accessories. Overall though, it’s a nice little case is you’re a Lowepro fan. The kit also includes an extra battery which works great as does the wall charger. It’s always nice to have an extra battery with wall charger

Photos of Camera

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ricoh-caplio-gx100-3.jpg ricoh-caplio-gx100-4.jpg

Camera Photo Sample

ricoh-caplio-gx100-a.jpg ricoh-caplio-gx100-b.jpg
ricoh-caplio-gx100-c.jpg ricoh-caplio-gx100-d.jpg

Manufacturer Claims

Versatile imagery from a 24-72mm optical zoom lens

The GX100’s slender body accommodates a 24-72mm/f2.5(W)-4.4(T), 3x wide-angle optical zoom lens. Set to wide-angle it can be utilized for wide-perspective pan focus shooting and versatile photographic effects. At medium distances, it is effective for taking portraits or framing scenes. With the freedom to compose and wide potential for expression, the Caplio GX100 appeals to the type of photographer who seeks to enhance his expressive artistry.

Superb optical performance, all the way to the picture’s edge

Striving for compact size and outstanding imagery from its 24mm wide-angle zoom lens, the Caplio GX100 boasts a high-performance lens utilizing aspherical, special low-dispersion glass lenses with a high refractive index, in a high-quality 7-group, 11-element configuration. This design effectively suppresses distortion, color aberration and light falloff at the edges. As the MTF (Modulation Transfer Function) curve demonstrates, it achieves high definition and high contrast reproduction all the way to the edges.

Wide-angle conversion lens

Attach the DW-6* wide conversion lens (optional) and you’ll get a perspective even wider than the naked eye, enabling you to take ultra-wide-angle shots with a 19mm focal length. The ability to shoot extreme déformé perspectives and wide angle shots give further vent to original shooting. The wide conversion lens requires the easily-connected HA-2* adapter, which also permits attachment of the lens hood and a variety of 43mm diameter filters (standard items).

Seven-blade iris aperture realizes striking blur tone

Selectable in 12 steps from fully open to the smallest setting, the odd-numbered 7-blade iris aperture enables close control over exposures. At any setting a nearly perfect circle is achieved, permitting capture of gorgeous blur tones and shafts of light.

Step zoom emulates single focal length lenses

The zoom lens’ focal length can be fixed at 24/28/35/50 and 72mm. This step zoom system enables you to capture images like that of a 35mm film camera using single photo length lenses.

10.01-megapixel CCD achieves fine, detailed imagery

The GX100’s CCD, boasting 10.01 megapixels with superb definition, incorporates Ricoh’s original “Smooth Imagining EngineII” for natural color rendition with low noise. Combining these two strengths, the GX100 achieves fine, detailed quality images that stand up to demanding enlargements. A choice of F (Fine), N (Normal) and RAW mode settings are available, with RAW recommended for processing the image with computer software as well as for optimal picture quality.

Removable electronic viewfinder(LCD viewfinder)

GX100 boasts a unique removable electronic viewfinder. Directly linked to the focal distance and viewfinder image, parallax is eliminated, letting you zoom and frame your subjects with the feel of a single-lens reflex camera. Naturally shooting information is displayed in the same manner as on the LCD monitor. The field of view is 100 percent. Its tilt mechanism*1 permits low-angle shots, for even more photographic creativity.

Large 2.5-inch LCD monitor display permits wide-angle shooting

Viewing ImageThe 2.5-inch, 230,000 pixel LCD display can be clearly viewed horizontally or vertically from a 170-degree angle. Photos can be displayed as one frame, three frames or indexed contents, up to a maximum of 16 at a time. Display settings include marker displays, a histogram for visual display of light distribution, a grid guide (in the shooting mode), convenient for confirming parallel alignment and a highlight display (in the display mode) that darkens display over bright areas.

Customized settings fit to your personal style

A wealth of functions enables full versatility and ease of use. The ADJ. lever enables preprogramming of up to four frequently utilized functions, including focus, ISO sensitivity, metering system, continuous shooting and others, greatly facilitating making changes to settings. The function button also permits switching between manual and auto focus, AE lock and others, letting you make changes at a touch.

Frequently used “My Setting” options can be toggled at a touch

Two “My Setting” options allow you to preset the GX100 to match your most frequently used shooting styles and scenes. Once you’ve selected your preferences, just select the Mode setting and you’ll be ready to shoot at a moment’s notice.

Pleasing, high-durability body

The aluminum alloy body conveys an unmistakable sensation of quality and luxury that your hands can feel.

Functional, ergonomic body design

The natural lines and ergonomic controls make shooting with the GX100 smooth and effortless. The large, easy to handle grip section, covered with pliable resin material, provides a secure and comfortable grip for added stability during shooting. The control layout and positive click sensation of the buttons enhances its ease of use.

Approx. 340 shots per battery charge, plus AAA compatibility

The GX100 utilizes three power sources: rechargeable battery, AAA-type dry cells and an AC adapter *1. The large-capacity rechargeable battery permits approximately 340*2 shots. Alkaline batteries, available anywhere, can take up to 30 shots *2. Oxyride dry battery and NiMH batteries can also be used.

Focus system lets you match up subject and shooting style

Use of multi AF with 17 separate auto focus points within the auto focus area prevents out-of-focus shots of two people, for example, even if you don’t lock the focus. Center spot auto focusing is also available, as well as manual spot focusing, which is displayed by the monitor’s focus bar. The easy-to-confirm focus indicator is a great convenience.

Three types of light metering adapt to virtually every situation

The multi metering mode splits the monitor into 256 segments and determines the ideal overall exposure. In addition, center weighted average metering and spot metering are included. This not only enables GX100 to be used in a variety of lighting situations, but also permits the user to give free range to his own “light-seeing eye.”

Choice of versatile exposure modes

In addition to the Camera mode that entrusts settings to the camera, the GX100 boasts scene modes tailored to a variety of subjects and shooting situations. Three modes: “A” (aperture priority mode), “M” (manual exposure mode) and “P” (program shift mode) support your creative efforts. By according you full control over the subject’s depth of field and emotions, the GX100 is an ideal camera for enjoying photographic expression.

Flexible shooting functions to match the subject

In addition to a 4:3 aspect ratio, GX100 can also be set to the same 3:2 ratio as a 35mm camera, as well as a 1:1 ratio. When used in combination with the LCD viewfinder’s tilt function, you can enjoy the same “feel” as a medium-format camera. Picture settings include monochrome and sepia for touch of nostalgia.

Vibration correction and high-sensitivity auto setting, for capturing images with sharpness

A CCD shift-type vibration correction function has been adopted, to enable sharply defined hand-held shots even in low-light situations or where use of flash is prohibited. Vibration correction is also effective for capturing atmospheric shots that harness the light and shadow as-is. By setting the GX100 to the AUTO-HI position, the camera’s ISO sensitivity is automatically boosted. As shutter speed is raised, this prevents blurring of the subject. Combines with the vibration correction it makes for distinctive, sparkling pictures.

1cm macro for ultra-precise close-ups

GX100 permits macro shots as close as 1cm away from the subject at the wide angle setting, and 4cm in the telephoto setting. This gives you the option of using the wide angle for emphasizing proximity, or the telephoto when you want to obscure images in the background. Other powerful features include a “Zoom Macro” setting to boost the size of macro images and auto focus targeting that can be moved without changing the picture composition.

Scene modes give best exposure

A choice of eight still picture modes are provided: Portrait, Sports, Landscape, Nightscape, Skew Correction, Text, Zoom

Versatile flash operation

The pop-up flash can be set to Flash-off, Auto, Red-eye reduction, Flash-on, Soft Flash, and Slow Synchro, to provide the ideal lighting for each type of scene. The GX100 also incorporates a hotshoe for connection of an external flash unit.

Flash Soft setting for close-up work

For macro or close-up wide angle shots, the flash intensity can be reduced. For macro photography or close-ups in the wide angle setting, this avoids overexposure of the subject, as well as preventing the background from appearing underexposed, affording extra control for more natural results.

Slow Synchro mode ideal for night scene portraits

After the flash captures the subject at the ideal exposure level, the Slow Shutter continues exposure as-is, ensuring that even night scenes achieve the right balance.

Movie mode

The GX100 shoots moving images of up to 640 x 480 pixels at 30 frames per second with sound. Image size from 640 x 480 pixels at 30 or 15 frames per second are selectable.

SDHC memory card for high-capacity recording of high-definition images

The GX100 can accommodate SDHC memory cards of up to 4GB capacity. This enables it to record a large volume of high-quality image data and thereby further extending its shooting capabilities.

via source

Detailed Specifications

CCD

  • Effective 10.01 million pixels (total 10.30 million pixels )
  • 1/1.75-inch primary-color CCD

Lens

  • Focal length: f=5.1 - 15.3 mm (35mm camera equivalent, 24-72mm)
  • Aperture (F value): F2.5(Wide) - F4.4(Tele)
  • Lens construction: 11 elements in 7 groups

Vibration Correction Function

  • CCD shift method

Digital Zoom

  • Optical : 3X (35mm camera equivalent, 24-72mm)
  • Digital : 4X (Maximum 12X when combined with optical)

Shooting Distance

  • Approx. 30 cm - infinity from lens tip (Wide and Tele)

Macro Shooting Distance

  • Approx. 1 cm - infinity from lens tip (Wide)
  • approx. 4 cm - infinity from lens tip (Tele)
  • Approx. 1 cm - infinity from lens tip (Zoom macro mode)

Shutter Speed

  • Still image 180, 120, 60, 30, 15, 8, 4, 2, 1-1/2000 sec.
  • Movie 1/30 - 1/2000 sec.

Pixels

  • Still image 3648 x 2736, 3648 x 2432, 2736 x 2736, 3264 x 2448, 2592 x 1944, 2048 x 1536,1280 x 960, 640 x 480
  • Text 3648 x 2736, 2048 x 1536
  • Movie 640 x 480, 320 x 240

Picture mode* 1

  • F (Fine)
  • N (Normal)
  • RAW * 2

ISO Sensitivity (Standard Output Sensitivity)

  • AUTO
  • AUTO-HI
  • ISO80
  • ISO100
  • ISO200
  • ISO400
  • ISO800
  • ISO1600

Flash

  • Off
  • Auto
  • Red-eye reduction
  • On
  • Slow synchro
  • Soft Flash
  • Flash range* 3: Approx. 0.2 - 5.0 m (Wide), 0.15 - 3.0 m (Tele)

Focus

  • Auto Focus
  • Spot Auto Focus
  • Manual Focus
  • Snap (Fixed Focus)
  • Infinity

Exposure Adjustment

  • TTL-CCD Metering method (AE lock possible for all meterings.): Multi light metering (256 segments), Center-weighted light metering, Spot metering

Exposure Compensation

  • Manual exposure Compensation +2.0EV - -2.0EV (1/3EV Steps)
  • Auto Bracket Function (-0.3EV, ±0, +0.3EV / -0.5EV, ±0, +0.5EV)

White Balance

  • Auto
  • Fixed (Outdoors, Cloudy, Incand., Fluores., Manual)
  • White Balance Bracket

Memory Type

  • SD Memory Card ( 32, 64, 128, 256, 512 MB, 1, 2 GB)
  • SDHC Memory Card (4 GB)
  • Multi Media Card, Internal Memory (26 MB)

Storage Capacity (No.of Pictures)*4 (Internal 26MB Memory) Still image

  • 3648 x 2736 (RAW:1 F:6 N:11)
  • 3648 x 2432 (RAW:1 F:7 N:13)
  • 2736 x 2736 (F:8)
  • 3264 x 2448 (N:14)
  • 2592 x 1944 (N:22)
  • 2048 x 1536 (N:35)
  • 1280 x 960 (N:62)
  • 640 x 480 (N:276)

Storage Capacity (Time)(Internal 26 MB Memory) Movie

  • 640 x 480 @30 frames/sec. (12 sec.)
  • 640×480 @15 frames/sec. (24 sec.)
  • 320 x 240 @30 frames/sec. (39 sec.)
  • 320 x 240 @15 frames/sec*5. (1 min. 16 sec.)

Storage Data Capacity (Sizes are approximate) Still image

  • 3648 x 2736 (RAW:14.4 MB/Screen F:3.61 MB/Screen N:2.07 MB/Screen)
  • 3648 x 2432 (RAW:12.8 MB/Screen F:3.21 MB/Screen N:1.85 MB/Screen
  • 2736 x 2736 (F:2.71 MB/Screen), 3264 x 2448 (N:1.67 MB/Screen)
  • 2592 x 1944 (N:1.06 MB/Screen)
  • 2048 x 1536 (N:672 KB/Screen), 1280 x 960 (N:356 KB/Screen)
  • 640 x 480 (N:83KB/Screen)

Recording Modes

  • Still image modes (Still Image / CONT / S-CONT / M-CONT), Program Shift/ Aperture-Priority/
    Manual Exposure modes, Scene modes (Portrait / Sports / Landscape / Nightscape /
    Skew correction / Text / Zoom macro / High Sensitivity) , Movie mode, My Setting1 & 2.

Recording Format

  • Still image JPEG (Exif Ver. 2.21)DCF*6, RAW (DNG)* 7
  • Movie AVI (Open DML Motion JPEG Format Compliant)
  • Sound WAV (Exif Ver. 2.21 μ law)

LCD Monitor Display

  • 2.5-inch Transparent Amorphous Silicon TFT LCD (approx. 230,000 pixels)

Self Timer

  • Operation time: approx. 10 sec. / approx. 2 sec.

Interval Timer

  • Shooting interval: 5 sec. - 3 hours (5 sec. steps)* 8

PC Interface

  • USB2.0 High-Speed ( mini-B cable )
  • Choice of Ricoh original or Mass Storage driver* 9

AV Interface

  • Audio Out
  • Video Out

Video Signal Format

  • NTSC /PAL

Dimensions

  • 111.6 mm (W) x 58.0 mm (H) x 25.0 mm (D) (excluding projections parts)

Weight

  • Approx. 220 g (excluding batteries, Memory Card, strap)
  • Accessories: approx. 30 g (battery, strap)

Battery

  • Rechargeable battery (DB-60) x 1, optional AC adaptor (AC-4c)
  • AAA battery (alkaline / oxyride / NiMH) x 2

Shooting Capacity * 10

  • Conforms to CIPA standard: using the DB-60, approx. 340 pictures (Using AAA alkaline batteries: approx. 30 pictures * 11)

Operating Temperature

  • 0°C-40°C

Posted June 23rd, 2008 in Ricoh, Video Camera, Mid-Range, 9 to 10, Below 6x by Hannah.
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Hi there, this is Hannah and I maintain this digital camera review blog of mine. Welcome to my site, I do hope the camera related articles are of use, providing you with unbiased digital camera reviews, advice, and prices. I am here to help you find the right camera. Feel free to leave your mark by commenting and do contact me for any inquiries. Thank you for visting this small blog of mine.

 

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