Parsippany, NJ—Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation expanded its lineup of waterproof, digital compact cameras with two new models: the entry-level Pentax WG-1000 and top-of-the-line Pentax WG-8. The newest additions to the WG series of all-weather adventure cameras both feature a rugged chassis, plus waterproof, dustproof and shock-resistant features.
Pentax WG-1000
Moreover, the WG-1000 is for casual underwater photography to a depth of 49.2 feet for up to one hour of continuous operation. Lightweight, the new camera is also an option for a range of land-based activities. Further, it is dustproof against dirt and stains and shockproof against a fall from a height of 6.5 feet.
What’s more, the WG-1000 features a 4x optical zoom lens with a focal-length coverage from 4.9mm to 19.6mm (27–108mm equivalent). When coupled with its digital zoom function, the lens’s zoom range is extended by approximately 24x for higher-magnification zoom photography. Additionally, its back-illuminated, 16.35-megapixel CMOS image sensor is engineered to deliver sharp, clear images, even at ISO 3200.
The camera comes with a carabiner strap for carrying convenience as well as a protective jacket to shield the camera body from scratches. Available in gray or olive, the WG-1000 has seven capture modes as well as various color modes. The color modes include conventional black-and-white and sepia modes. They also include more creative options, like Japan style, which enhances bluish hues; Italian style, which enhances greenish hues; and French style, which enhances reddish hues.
Ricoh will make the WG-1000 available mid-July. It will have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $229.95.
Pentax WG-8
Ricoh developed this P&S as the toughest in the Pentax WG series. As such, the WG-8 boasts enhanced waterproof, shockproof and cold-resistant performance. The top-of-the-line model is waterproof to a depth of 65.6 feet as well as shockproof against a fall from a height of 6.8 feet. It is also able to operate in temperatures as low as 14°F.
It additionally delivers 20MP photos and 4K-resolution movie clips. The WG-8 also employs a 5x optical zoom, 28–140mm-equivalent lens. The lens’s minimum focusing distance of .04 inch allows you to capture a range of images, from close-ups to sweeping landscapes. Further, its intelligent zoom function extends the zoom range by approximately 40.5x without compromising image quality.
In addition, the new adventure camera has advanced features and user-friendly functions. Among them are a multi-application ring light, ideal for close-up macro photography, and web camera capability when connected to a computer.
Available in black or green versions, the WG-8 replaces the current-model Ricoh WG-6 camera as the premium offering in the product line. The WG-8 will also reach retail in late July. SRP: $399.95.
