Ricoh GRiiix First Impressions: Why a Pocket Camera?

[@QKvox]

The music around 8:40 is soooo nice. Awesome shots, you’re making me badly want this camera

[@chrismacdonald.6295]

Love the shot at 5:13. Many of us like to take shots of window reflections but you nailed it with the guy looking at you. This took it to another level. I have both GRs and love experimenting with the different focal lengths. Thanks for the video.

[@CutGEBRINE]

camera aside, the quality of your videos just...amazes me everytime. who knew that a camera review could feel so emotional, the story telling is done so well. can watch back to back camera reviews without being interested in the camera itself !

[@therealchickentender]

Over the past 14 years I've owned the GRDIII, GR1s, GRDIV, GR, and GRIII ..... I will *always* have a GR in my bag. Always. There's never been a digital camera line that struck the photography-first chord, pure shooting feeling that has actually bonded me to it like a couple of my favorite film bodies over time. A lot of that has been simplicity and utilitarian design that has changed at a *glacial* pace throughout the entire life of the series. If there is a *digital* camera I love, it's a GR.

[@gurugamer8632]

Try Leica M

[@leanderhoefler7054]

I love the GR series, my best street photos have been captured with the original GR III. I for myself find the ergonomics quite perfect (maybe I should mention that I'm quite tall and use a R5 with battery grip as my camera for work) and the customization is brilliant. And yes, the whole point of this camera is that you can have it with you, all the time. I sold it though (twice), because even 28mm is my favorite focal length if you have a suiting subject, it is really a though choice for the everyday carry I was looking for. So I'm pretty confident that the GR IIIx will find it's way in my bag (or pocket). And regarding the display: Even if it drains even more battery, it really helps to bump up the brightness to the maximum.

[@keesketsers5866]

The original GR was my favorite camera, I used it everywhere. Until it broke during a camping trip (got wet in a tent). Had many camera's after it, but none come close to the absolute joy of shooting with the GR. I don't know why, it's just a magical camera.

[@MrRoutinemaster]

カメラを愛することは、ときに写真がおざなりになることがあります。ただしGRにおいてはカメラを愛することで写真を撮ることが楽しくなります。 そして、森山大道が言った「量のない質はありえない」という言葉に一番貢献できるカメラです。 Loving a camera can sometimes ruin your photos. However, in GR, it is fun to take pictures by loving the camera. And it is the camera that can contribute most to the words that Daido Moriyama said, "There can be no quality without quantity."

[@JodAetaem]

So much videography for "just" a first impression! Wonderful work, I loved it

[@wendeeisme]

Great video as always! I find your videos really informative and calming at the same time. Even when i'm less interested in some of topics u cover, i still enjoy watching them. Keep up the good work!

[@don7117]

Regarding focal length options, with the apsc sensor, you can crop or use 35mm incamera mode. Can't zoom out with the X version.

[@sergeykonov8859]

Faizal , great video. When you are in Istanbul? I love here and would love to meet and take you around .

[@luukje]

man not only is the review of this camera great, but the filming and color grading is on point as well. would love to know how you graded this footage! cheers

[@capuchadou-44]

Thanks for your honest take on the Ricoh. I've been thinking of getting back into photography (been away for several decades) and the look, feel and operation of the Fuji is more in line with my taste and experience. Analog controls are so easy for me and I get a kick out of folks nowadays reassuring others that you can get used to it. For me, it's the only way to go as I find menus and screens so counter intuitive.

[@ValentinaAZ]

Thank you for this video. I own a GRIII and a film GR1. I actually barely use them for street photography but more for a personal work such as self portraiture, close ups of objects etc.

[@AlexZafer]

I love the Ricoh GR series of cameras, for all the reasons most of us do...it is unlike other cameras, you just think differently when using it. Yes it is pocketable, however, don't put it in your pocket. I've owned GR for years, never a dust issue. Why? Because I never put it directly into my pocket where dust is always picked up very easily. I use a case. Protect your investment and use a case when not in use. Sure, a little case is a pain in the butt, but so is dust. On another note, I prefer a 28mm field of view, almost as much as a 35mm. They are much closer in relation than a 40mm is to a 35mm, in my personal opinion. A 40mm more closely resembles and acts like its tighter 50mm cousin. Either way, I hope you thoroughly enjoy it! I'm sure you will.

[@bazilmynazzle]

Agree with you on all points about caring for your equipment. I think a small group of people have amplified complaints about the "dust issue" in these cameras, because-like you said-they don't take care of their cameras/gear. I love my IIIx and plan to baby it when not actively shooting with it.

[@phartsy]

I still shoot with my Ricoh GR 2 Digital. Old old but also still holds up. I’ve been a long time street shooter and swear by them. (Also love my Fuji X100 too)

[@watwatwatwat]

Always thrilled to see your new upload!

[@AaronAnalog1]

I'm a sucker for reflection selfies, love the one at 8:18 ! I recently picked up a GRiii and I'm loving it, I bring a small power brick for my phone and camera instead of extra batteries.

[@dilatedjayou]

Yea same here. Also, the fact it's usbc also means better charging times as well for the GR3X

[@Eric-qn4um]

Just went on a family holiday trip to Galicië Span and out of the 3 camera’s I took with me the GR was used most for its image quality and size The other 2 were the WG 60 for out on the beach and the K3III for serious hiking

[@GarrettXPrime]

dude your videos are so good man ecxellent quality

[@dilatedjayou]

1. I recommend getting a cap from Amazon, also I run the sensor cleaning function every two weeks for the GRIIIX. This thing is always in my pocket (2 months) and so far no dust issues. 2. From my home office and car- I always have a usb C cord charger and this does charge really fast to USB C. Definitely recommend getting 2nd battery, but also having a portable powerbank with USB-C in your bag is also helpful. 3. I love Fuji colors (used to have a x100f and love my XT2)- but the Positive Film and Full Press Snap functions make this camera worth it. You can also get really great color and shadow details- that you definitely print. With FPS it's very easy to switch from AF for closer details to zone focusing (for getting certain depth of field). This is where I feel the one hand operation actually has an advantage over other cameras. Really like this video breakdown, because it's true that this 40 mm is not the same as the GR3 28mm. However, that's depends on how you shoot and also what you are looking for composition-wise. I do anticipate that the next firmware update is going to be hopefully coming soon as well.

[@FaizalWestcott]

Thanks for the pointers! Awesome to hear it chargers fast over a portable charger. That’s uncommon for cameras!

[@okyeabuddyguy]

picking between the gr iii and iiix is tough. I think, given that most people have a good smartphone and the main camera (and highest quality camera) on modern smartphones is typically 24 - 28mm, it makes sense to get the iiix. You will be carrying your phone every day and with a iiix you will always have a high quality option in your pocket for general photos and if some subject really is too wide then you can use your phone. When you are doing more serious intentional photography you can walk around with a 50mm or 75mm on your main camera and still have the 4x for something a tad wider. It seems like a good fit. I'm just on the fence because the GR iii can be cropped to 35mm with still decent results.

[@LS-vg1bk]

If you’re just a hobbyist would this camera be good enough to have as your only camera?

[@utredutredson1686]

the first 5 seconds has given me some great ideas!

[@joannalee4901]

The music is very nice. Can I know the name of it?

[@TheArgentavis]

Great video, as usual 👏. I’d love to see your take on the FujiFilm XF10

[@dennisdragan1128]

Very nicely presented 👍👍!

[@willparsons32]

Have yet to watch the video but during the first few seconds, you stated that the camera fits in the pocket (of your pants) which is absolutely correct - HOWEVER, during a short conversation with a RICOH Technician, he strongly recommend that I purchase a carry case or pouch specific to the camera (basically, anything that will safely store the camera away and NOT to put it in one's pocket. The simple explanation was that pants are made of cotton... Cotton has a natural tendency to create lint which most typically hides inside the pockets of both jackets and pants. I found that shooting close up with the 40mm is rather awkward. I'm sure if I was to use the macro option, then it wouldn't be so bad. An incredible camera stuffed with professional photographer options.

[@ferdiyansurya]

I have been on the fence for a GR III for some time, however the dust and fragility issue are the ones keeping off of it. The snap focus is a game changer for street photography, I wish fuji can innovate in this regard.

[@cine-ish]

X100V

[@navis5284]

I have never had a problem with dust on the sensor on my Ricoh GRs. Ever. I put some gaffe tape over the speaker holes and use a half case. Problem solved.

[@cine-ish]

@@navis5284 you may not have but its a big enough problem that I've seen a good amount of people have issues with it

[@yarko_on_the_go]

@@navis5284 my first GRii got the dreaded dust within the first 2 months of use. I returned on warranty and put a hood and filter on my second one. No dust at all right up to when I sold it a couple years later. Sadly that "fix" made it no longer pocketable and that fact eventually killed it for me in favor of my xpro2. I've been thinking about grabbing a iiix and just chancing the dust issue again-and you give me some hope!

[@okyeabuddyguy]

@@yarko_on_the_go The iiix has ibis which is used to shake the sensor to help remove any dust

[@jonasvandermeiren]

Faizal, what an amzing video. Once again. Really loved the shots as well! Looking forward to the Turkey photos.

[@socialbender]

I currently own an x100v which is my jam ; gave my vi pre order away which they will be getting in 2 days but anyways I’m looking at getting the gr again. I had the griii a couple years ago and it was only edc which was very frustrating . Now that I have an x100v and 2 a7iv’s I think it’s time for a pocket cam . My dilemma is which one to get . I am a 35mm shooter but man I got some bangers when I had 28mm . Idk what to do lol . I also love that diary edition one but that’s only 28.

[@Avantgardener103]

I'd be curious to see what you can do with a Canon Powershot S70/90/200

[@WILDANDSTORY]

Great timing. I traded in my X-E4 for the GRiiix. It arrives tomorrow. Main reason is for a truly pocketable camera. I was put off by the price initially and 28mm focal length but I’ve previously used a Voigtlander 40mm and loved it.

[@RemmyMusic1]

thats super rough. you might find your trade was not a good idea. you went back a couple steps in almost every regard

[@WILDANDSTORY]

@@RemmyMusic1 I thought about it for a while. The XE-4 was my family day trip & supposedly EDC camera. I have other cameras. It wasn’t working for me as a truly EDC camera and I wanted to try something other than Fuji. Plus I have a rule that if I want a new camera then I have to sell one so the G.A.S. doesn’t get out of hand.

[@dilatedjayou]

Enjoy! I do find that with the GR system can get you close to subjects and also I think when I shoot with my XT2 (which I adore) - I can see people easily being conscious/aware. Again, that also on me on how approach a scene. But it whens to meeting with friends for a drink or a quick walk to shoot. The GR is truly fun and very manageable. Have fun!

[@WILDANDSTORY]

@@dilatedjayou Just arrived and setting it up. I think I’m going to have fun with this one. Just need to stop putting it up to my eye 😂

[@r423fplip]

@@WILDANDSTORY get a filter on the lens, you don't want dust on the sensor.

[@ivunchow]

Nice one! The photos look so good 😮‍💨, can’t wait to see what you do with it on your trip. Safe travels dude

[@mattlau]

3:15 exactly. The best camera is the one you have with you. There are days I actually don't want to bring a mirrorless with a zoom lens... and my phone doesn't do justice yet

[@gharrop1]

Thanks for a very thoughtful and considered review.I have had a GR for a few years now( first a GR2 and now a GR3) I do understand some of the critical comments folks have added….but there is something about just using a GR once you have got very used to it, I often take street photos using the snap focus feature and don’t even look at the LCD screen, some work really well others can be a miss , but the image quality can be really excellent, I use mainly for Black and White and nobody seems to notice the camera when I am out and about. My other main camera is and Olympus pen F which gives me much more scope and control….but there is still just something about the GR 3 that gets me motivated and is fun to use. I have great respect too for the Fuji x110v and if I had not bought a Pen f first…I would have got the Fuji. Please keep up your excellent videos!

[@gurugamer8632]

When do you think Ricoh GR 4 will come out?

[@aqifizzat]

hye can i know if rocoh gr is the best compact camera

[@elliotresnick5433]

I have a Canon FF with both 35mm and 50mm lenses, and want to add one of the pocketable GR’s to my kit. Wouldn’t it make sense carrying the Canon w/35mm lens & GRIIIx or Canon w/50mm lens & GRIII? Just asking because you seem to prefer the GRIIIx and X-E4 w/35mm having a crop factor of 52mm.

[@lapartdesanges4784]

hi Faizal please where do u buy the strap off your fuji x100v ? thanks !

[@Edo.]

love the aesthetics of this video!

[@DamesMay]

Absolutely love your videos, such a relaxing watch! Easily digestible. Keep it up man 🙏

[@dj_laundry_list]

7:18 how would a viewfinder defeat the purpose? I've been thinking a viewfinder with no large display on the back would be even more fun to use, and for some situations more practical

[@strange_loops]

Fuji XF10 impressions coming when?? 28mm equivalent only though.. Would love to see you check it out and do a head-to-head with the Ricoh!

[@FaizalWestcott]

That would be really cool!

[@walk_dont_walk]

Great video. I love the mood in your videos. I was wondering if you forgot to mention the stabilised sensor which was a big plus for me.

[@jj8624-s8m]

The way you film yourself for these videos is really cool, would love to see bts of it

[@hakanuriona]

I’m living in Istanbul doing street photography here, amazing city! Looking forward to your video :)

[@jhonyshow]

I love your videos! the pace, the rhythm, the compositión, everything feels so good. Thank you for sharing!

[@danialbawthan6041]

What camera do you shoot your video here? I love the color and texture of it

[@nick16652]

Really like your photos, keep it up!!

[@rpsilva]

Hi! I am glad you have been in Lisbon. Great pictures! Can I ask what is the hand strap you are using in this video with your GR? Thanks

[@forneverarrow]

I wanted a GR IIIx but I decided to buy the Sony a6000 with the 16-50mm retractable kit lens. Very small size and great image quality. Plus i don’t have any dust problem and I can easily put any prime lens on it. Ricoh has many limitations for a 999€ camera, like the omission of manual focus and tillable screen…

[@architektmartin]

Are you still using the X-E4? For which situations?

[@WanderingDiabetic]

What are your thoughts I’ve got an xe4 and I love it however I can’t stop thinking about getting Ricoh, on personal experience would you stick with xe4 or switch to Ricoh.

[@arinjames6405]

Another great video my friend! Very informative and I agree with Wendy. Very calming. It’s really nice to hear an honest review of this camera from a fellow Fuji shooter as well. Thanks dude!🤘🏼

[@TheWutangclan1995]

I heard that the really old Ricoh GR digitals had a CCD sensor which is the closest thing to looking like film.

[@joeltunnah]

That’s definitely true, about CCD sensors.

[@AlexOnStreets]

I agree on all points but more notably, great photos!

[@FaizalWestcott]

Thanks Alex!

[@davidmeye]

Love the videos dude. Do you have any favorite recipes for your Ricoh?

[@hassanhekmatravesh5940]

Hi man! It's a bit irrelevant to this video, but it would be great if you do a video on proper memory cards for street photography and Fujifilm cameras, how many is enough to own at first and at which capacity and etc. Thanks

[@TWEAKER01]

Nicely succinct video. A clarification: They're *not* 28 and 40mm focal lengths, but the 35mm frame equivalent fields of view.

[@stephanedubarry8624]

Excellent as usual. The only drawback that could be a purchase breaker for me is poor battery life even if one can buy and carry several but it takes time to recharge 3 or 4 in a raw. How many shots can be expected if we switch off the camera betweens two shots ? Thanks

[@milesharbord9339]

I have a charger that charges 3 at a time

[@denran05]

i had a gr 2 to be honest it's not just a camera it's the perfect photo quality in your pocket

[@ashtonal.2634]

whats the camera bag you have there please.

[@konthai9990]

Thank you sir. Your video is helpful for me. and I think is the best video review for Ricoh GR3x.

[@uriitarded]

whats the shoulder bag you have on at 3:14? looks different than the one listed on your website

[@jaycielinh]

what a great video! this camera seems so fun to use, esp for day to day situations. i just want to notice how amazing your b-roll shots were! loved the reflective details, you have such an amazing eye 😎

[@bastian.michel]

Damn, what a well done video. This calm style is awesome.

[@ichristianrodriguez]

The one thing that often goes unmentioned with these cam's is the fragility. I love my GRIII but it fell off a table one day and it had to go out for repair. 300 something dollars later the camera seemed to be working normally but I could tell the stabilizer was not what it used to be, before the repair.

[@image6435]

Same, I got the lens error issue after a drop from the waist level. If I'm ever going to get another GR, I will have to put an adaptor hood on it sadly.

[@darkfeign]

@@image6435 I did this with a new GR IIIx but even without dropping it, 2 days in and I got a lens error

[@image6435]

@@darkfeign that’s crazy you might have gotten a lemon, I’d get it exchanged.

[@benadrylpumpkinpatch]

I broke mine by dropping it on a relatively soft mulch trail.

[@tapasyatyaga4041]

@@benadrylpumpkinpatch Seems real fragile

[@ARCHIPRESO]

Photography is good, but I felt that I was also putting a lot of effort into your video footages. It was a very interesting content and I was interested in Rico GR.

[@majahdimaporo8184]

Hi! What setting were the shots at the 3rd minute of the video po?

[@vicjayking]

Nice video. I've had a GRII and III and used them for quite a while. I ended up selling them both to buy an X100V. I really enjoyed using both the GR's but unfortunately, they stopped being pocketable due to the amount of dust that ended up getting inside the cameras doing that (GRIIIX has the same issue still). They are super sharp and honestly can't be beaten for discreet shooting though. I have heard it mentioned before that it is the lens collapsing when you turn it off that pulls in any dust that was on it when extended (pocket lint etc). Some folks say just shoot and don't worry about it, but it just creates more work having to remove the dust spots in post and something that you shouldn't have to worry about in a camera that costs as much as it does. My recommendation is to buy more batteries and not to turn the camera on and off as often to conserve power, which introduces more dust.

[@joeltunnah]

“Pocketable” cameras don’t belong in your pockets. You learned that the hard way.

[@vicjayking]

@@joeltunnah So wise. Ha.

[@joeltunnah]

@@vicjayking I wasn’t trying to be a smartazz, sorry if you took it that way. For $900 it probably should be dust and weather resistant, then this would be a non issue.✌🏻

[@vicjayking]

@@joeltunnah No worries at all. It actually made me chuckle. I completely agree. A friend of mine purchased the GRIII and has had to send it back twice for warranty work due to issues. I used to put mine in a ziplock bag in my pocket before I sold it :)

[@joeltunnah]

@@vicjayking ziploc bag is a smart idea.

[@gurugamer8632]

In my GR IIIx I can’t see negative film option I only see positive film why is that?

[@herickbeira]

I would love to see an edit video of ricoh files

[@jonathanlanderos2266]

Your content is amazing.

[@_buttertigers]

Imo the ergonomics of the GR3 is a downgrade from the 2, where it was a truly one handed camera. The exposure comp rocker, the iso dial, everything was within reach that you could fully operate it on M without ever having to look at a menu. That was special.

[@navis5284]

Agree the Gr 16.2 and II are best for ergo; III is better for macro, however.

[@Jukeboxxer]

Hi there, great efforts, thanks a lot! I d like to ask which camera did you use for shooting this video, especially outdoor shoots.

[@Kevb69]

Great video and looks like a nice camera although I think personally I’ll stick with my 100V and use my iPhone if pocketability is required

[@bayouboy8644]

Great video, at 3:05 which camera were you putting into your pocket ?? Looks like a Fuji Film.

[@michaelschmidt1833]

My Wife said no big camera so brought my gr iiix only for canada. It was great only a few moments i had to switch to my iphone for wide angle but the ricoh was perfect. The only thing was i produced 2-3 times more pictures because during day light without a viewfinder the judging due to settings i had to do later but it was okay as i only focused on taking pictures then and enjoyed vacation.

[@КостяЧирко-к4х]

Can you please tell me which editor you use to edit your photos?

[@ShawnPBruce]

I've been so interested in this camera. I can't decide if I just want to get an X-E4 though. I had an X-E2 a while back and loved it. It's the only camera I've ever sold and regretted.

[@cine-ish]

I've very recently picked up an Olympus xz-1 as a pocket camera for when I'm too lazy to lug around my Xpro 2 with an assortment of lenses and I'm loving the versatility of a zoom lens after being forced to carry around a 35/50/7.5

[@izabelsim235]

No video feature for this cam?

[@fatherhooding]

My grail life camera: griiix with a f/2 and better dust resistance. I belieeeeveeee

[@ryanisaninja]

Do you find yourself using snap focus most of the time or utilizing auto focus?

[@spencermukai8565]

Thank you Faisal for videos. They are very informative. Great captures. I don’t have a question about the Ricoh GRiiix, rather I noticed your EDC bag you always seem to carry on your photo shoots. What brand and size is it? It looks like a good size EDC for a second camera and accessories. Let me know when you have the time. Again, thank you for your videos, as i am enjoying each and every one.

[@robspedding9520]

Is that a Fuji X100v in your pocket or... Love the 'explaining to do' comment. I've owned GRs and X100s. Currently using the X100v but still miss my GR2. That's only because of the pocketability - so, so good. Maybe I should just have both! Mind you, I did get GR dust.

[@paulhoban1778]

Love these reflection shots!!

[@Randuski]

I was a fuji boy for years, but i got a ricoh grii a while back and fell in love with it. I thought it would feel like i was shooting with a phone, not having a view finder, but the type of shots i took with it were different, and it was such a blast. Even with the x100 i found myself leaving it at home a lot because even it was too big. But i always had the ricoh. It's really tough to say if I'd want the 40mm. I love the 28, and there are plenty of times I'd want a longer focal length, especially since people don't go out as much, so my frame isn't as full of people who are close to me. But these things are amazing cameras. It's my favorite

[@navis5284]

I still shoot Fuji X on occasion, and it is great for fun and happy family photos, but the GR has it on the street and for creative expression.

[@kvncnls]

Awesome vid Faizal! Can you do a comparison of the Leica Q2, Fuji X100V and Ricoh GRiiix? They're all in a unique place where the Q2 is 28mm, Fuji is 35mm and GRiiix is 40mm. They're also ranging from largest to smallest in the same order.

[@Heyitsjacquii]

I really love your content! Would you mind sharing what’s the camera and lens you use to record this? Thank you so much.

[@ND1504]

where did you buy the hand strap plz?

[@gianniche]

Just got my GR IIIx, really like the size, the focal length, and picture quality. But after a while it gets quite warm (not hot), e.g. after 10 minutes of browsing through the camera settings and images. Is this normal?

[@SimonMcKelleget]

Just bought a GRiiix myself after spending a year and a half with the x100v. Really cool to see this now, thanks for the vid!

[@mateleber]

Is this 1000$ COMPACT better than a Sony Nex-3 with a Meike 28mm?

[@sunshyneeexx]

does anyone have any suggestion for a similar camera (dimensions and quality) with a built in flash?

[@mariaaa325]

Loved this video! Just wondering, how do you choose which camera to bring along on a trip? Or do you just bring them all? 😅

[@FaizalWestcott]

I’m trying to figure that out myself lol. I have too many, so definitely can’t bring them all. My Sony is my video camera so that’s a must bring.

[@rizkiadtyam]

Always love your photo works 🔥

[@ekjellgren]

What about dust in pocket?

[@joaolouro1085]

Do people sometimes react in a bad way when they notice that you are taking pictures?

[@FaizalWestcott]

Usually not