Alongside the Ricoh GR IV compact camera, Ricoh Imaging announced the Ricoh GF-2, a new super-compact flash designed exclusively for the GR IV camera.
The Ricoh GF-2 is a small, lightweight accessory flash unit that delivers an automatic flash function when mounted to the GR IV. The flash has a maximum guide number of 3 (at ISO 100/m), so it’s not the most powerful flash, but Ricoh says it has prioritized portability for the GF-2.
The flash weighs just 19 grams (about 0.7 ounces) and is only 31 millimeters (1.2 inches) tall. The GF-2 doesn’t add much size or weight to the GR IV, but if users need to remove it, the GF-2 itself easily slips into a small pocket.
The Ricoh GF-2 Super-Compact Flash weighs under 20 grams (about 0.7 ounces).
When used alongside the GR IV in its ISO Auto Flash mode, the GR IV and GF-2 work together to achieve the appropriate flash power and camera ISO setting for a given subject at its measured distance from the camera.
“This mode enhances the GR IV’s snapshot operations in casual flash photography,” Ricoh Imaging explains.
When used on the new Ricoh GR IV, the GF-2 flash has fancy automatic features.
When used on a different GR-series camera, the GF-2 only operates in its full-power mode because the alignment of the flash contacts, save for the X-sync contact, differs from the GR IV’s hot shoe design. However, Ricoh says it is working on a firmware update for GR III-series cameras that will add automatic flash discharge level adjustments. The firmware is expected to arrive in October.
The Ricoh GF-2 features a built-in lithium-ion battery that is not user-replaceable. The flash offers up to 270 full-power flashes per charge and recharges via a USB-C port. Ricoh says the flash recharges from empty in about two hours. The flash’s refresh cycle at full power is approximately two seconds. One additional note: the GF-2 does not support Ricoh’s wide conversion lens attachment, as vignetting will occur due to the flash’s short height.
Pricing and Availability
The Ricoh GF-2 Super-Compact Flash will be available in September for $119.95 in the United States and $149.99 in Canada.
Image credits: Ricoh Imaging