Ricoh GR IV HDF Edition Compact Camera

Ricoh GR IV HDF Overview

The Ricoh GR IV HDF represents a refined evolution of Ricoh’s well-established snap-shooting compact camera, designed for photographers who prioritise speed, discretion, and distinctive image character. This specialised version replaces the standard ND filter with a built-in Highlight Diffusion Filter, introducing a softer and more atmospheric rendering while preserving the core GR shooting experience.

Highlight Diffusion Filter (HDF)

The integrated Highlight Diffusion Filter gently diffuses bright areas within the frame, producing a subdued glow that creates a more dreamlike and nostalgic visual effect. The filter can be enabled or disabled instantly using the rear Fn button, which is marked for HDF by default but remains fully customisable. The HDF model is visually distinguished by a silver shutter release button, setting it apart from standard GR cameras.

New Sensor and GR ENGINE 7

At the core of the GR IV HDF is a newly developed 25.7-megapixel APS-C back-illuminated CMOS sensor, paired with the latest GR ENGINE 7 image processor. This combination delivers cleaner image quality with reduced noise and approximately one stop of improvement in low-light performance. Overall camera responsiveness is improved, with a start-up time of approximately 0.6 seconds, faster autofocus operation, expanded sensitivity up to ISO 204800, and continued support for 14-bit DNG and JPEG recording.

Faster and More Accurate Autofocus

Autofocus performance has been significantly enhanced through updated processing and a redesigned, lighter lens assembly. Focusing is quicker and more reliable, with reduced focus hunting and improved accuracy in low-light conditions. Advanced face and eye detection are supported, along with improved subject tracking. When multiple faces are detected, the camera automatically identifies and prioritises the main subject, clearly indicating focus on the LCD display. Ricoh’s Full Press Snap function remains a key feature, allowing the photographer to bypass autofocus and instantly focus at a preset distance by fully depressing the shutter button, eliminating delay when capturing decisive moments.

5-Axis Shake Reduction

The GR IV HDF introduces a new 5-axis Shake Reduction system that compensates for up to six stops of camera shake. This represents a substantial improvement over the previous 3-axis system, offering more effective stabilisation across a wider range of camera movements and enabling sharper handheld images, particularly in low-light shooting conditions.

Image Control and Creative Options

Creative flexibility is expanded through Ricoh’s Image Control system, which provides twelve preset modes, along with a new Cinema mode available in Yellow or Green tonal variations for a more film-inspired appearance. Each mode allows adjustment of parameters including saturation, contrast, hue, key, and grain, with selected modes also offering control over effect strength and grain size. User-defined settings can be saved and added directly to the Image Control menu for quick access during shooting.