Sharp Yet Soft: Ricoh GRIIIX HDF (Highlight Diffusion Filter) Review

Since its initial release in 2019, the GRIIIx has been a popular addition to Ricoh's revered GR series. Sporting a fixed lens with an equivalent focal length of 40mm, it’s the ideal companion for photographers keen to get a little closer to the action than the GRIII’s 28mm lens.

On March 28, 2024, Ricoh announced a new model in its compact camera line—the GRIIIx HDF. This camera is practically identical to previous versions of the GRIIIx with one important difference: the in-built ND filter is swapped out for a Highlight Diffusion Filter (HDF).

The HDF is designed to mimic the effect of a black mist filter, softening highlights and creating a cinematic, dreamy look in photos. So how does this new iteration of the camera stack up?

The launch of the HDF stirred up a lot of conversation in compact camera circles. First impressions ranged from skepticism to outright dismissal, with many wondering if this was an early April Fool's joke. Ricoh has had the last laugh, though, with demand far exceeding supply in every major global market.

Specs at a Glance

Let’s take a look at the key specifications of the GRIIIX HDF:

• Sensor: 24.24 megapixel APS-C CMOS
• Lens: 40mm equivalent focal length, seven elements in five groups, including two aspherical lens elements
• Aperture range: f/2.8-f/16
• Filter: Highlight Diffusion Filter (HDF) in place of the Neutral Density (ND) filter found in other GRIIIX models
• ISO Range: 100-102400
• LCD: 3.0-inch, 1.04 million dots
• Weight: 262g / 9.2oz (including battery and SD card)
• Battery Life: Approximately 200 images per charge
• Image Stabilization: Sensor shift, 3 axis

New Features

Essentially the same as previous GRIIIx cameras, the main feature we need to talk about is the HDF filter. This filter is designed to soften highlights, creating a cinematic look similar to that achieved with a black mist filter. Interestingly enough, Ricoh says that the filter is printed using their inkjet printing technology.

Two other new features with this model are the ability to register up to three custom white balances and new zone-select autofocus functionality. These two features can be rolled out to existing GRIII cameras via a firmware update.

First Impressions and Build Quality

At first glance, the GRIIIx HDF appears identical to previous models of the GRIIIx. The compact, minimalist design that has become the trademark of the GR series remains unchanged. The magnesium alloy body feels solid and well-built in hand.

There are two main differences cosmetically, though. First, we have a new color for the shutter button: the GRIIIx sports a grayish-silver shutter release button, which appears to change hue ever so slightly depending on the light.

Secondly, Ricoh has assigned the HDF to the Function button on the back of the camera by default, even adding the letters HDF above the button. This is a very clever addition, as we’ll see in the next section.

Using the GRIIIX HDF

The reason the new HDF button is a clever addition is simple—there’s no digging around in menus trying to find it every time you want to use it. To turn the filter on, press the HDF button and ‘HDF’ appears on the LCD screen, confirming that it is in use. Press the button again, and the filter is off.

Depending on the lighting, the effect of the HDF filter can look subtle at times, yet with other subject matter, not so much.

Apart from the HDF filter, the camera provides the typical GRIII experience. The camera is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around in your hand or pocket.

The HDF model comes with the standard Ricoh hand strap, though it feels somewhat lackluster compared to the finger strap that came with the GRIII Diary Edition Special Limited Kit. I much prefer the finger strap, as do others, so I’m not sure why Ricoh doesn’t make this a standalone item to buy.

Having owned a GRIII for 15 months in the lead-up to buying this camera, I found the transition to this new model seamless. The GRIII is my favorite camera for street and travel photography, so I was keen to get going with the GRIIIX. All the controls and features were exactly where I expected them to be. The only differences were the new HDF assigned to the Function (Fn) button, and getting my head around a tighter focal length. 

HDF Filter: Less Is More

Initially, I found myself experimenting with the HDF feature quite a lot, eager to see how it would impact different scenes. Much like when you first use any kind of filter, there’s a temptation to use it for every image. However, it quickly became apparent that, while the filter works beautifully in specific scenarios, it’s not something that works for every shot. Less is more when it comes to using the filter—using it sparingly and selectively gives the best results.

Two HDF Examples

Here are two examples of before and after shots from my recent trip to Indonesia, taken in very different lighting conditions.

In Denpasar, I photographed a row of scooters bathed in late afternoon sunlight, with trees and bushes providing a colorful background. With the HDF activated, the highlights were diffused, creating a soft, dreamy effect. In daylight, the HDF effect is there, but perhaps not quite as noticeable as at night. I much prefer the HDF version of this image.

In this second shot, I photographed fairy lights at a resort in Ubud at night. As you can see, the effect of the HDF in this scenario is much stronger.

Why Buy the HDF Model?

I'd been looking to buy a GRIIIx for some time, but I must admit at first the HDF was not a huge selling point. I like a black mist look as much as the next photographer, but it wasn't enough for me to order the camera.

Thinking about it, though, I very rarely use the ND filter on my GRIII, so it dawned on me one day that I probably wouldn't miss it in the GRIIIx HDF. With supply being a real issue with this line of cameras, the next time I saw one for sale via the Australian distributor, I bought one.

Summary 

The GRIIIx HDF is a subtle evolution in the GR series that caters to photographers looking for something a little different. The inclusion of this filter is a welcome addition, offering creative possibilities without the need for additional accessories.

It's true that many Ricoh fans are waiting for the next major model in this lineup, but who knows when, or if, they will ever make a fourth version of this popular series.

For now, whether you’re a seasoned GR user or new to the lineup, the HDF cameras offer a unique blend of familiarity and innovation that’s sure to inspire your creativity. Taking a cue from Ricoh's GR blog, with this camera, you can have both soft and sharp images all in one package.

What I Liked

• Classy styling as always 
• Best high-end pocket camera on the market
• Excellent image quality
• HDF provides another tool for creativity. 

What Could Be Improved

• Many Ricoh fans would love to see a finger strap included instead of a hand strap.