Ricoh Caplio 500G Wide covers even more terrain

Over the last few years Ricoh has developed a lucrative niche in the form of the ruggedised digital camera and the latest incarnation of this range for adventurers and extremists will hit the shelves in August. The Caplio 500G Wide is a water, dust and shock resistant wide angle camera that shoots 8-megapixel images even in the most challenging of photographic locations.

The Caplio 500G Wide boasts the same impressive water resistance as its predecessors, surpassing JIS protection grade 7 performance. In addition to taking pictures in the rain or snow, it is capable of capturing underwater images in depths of up to one metre. A dust resistance grading of JIS 6 means it can also endure dusty or sandy environments and a shock resistant structure and stronger camera cone create a robust body capable of withstanding falls from up to one metre.

Subterranean explorers will appreciate the new high-capacity flash. The Caplio 500G has an effective luminosity range of 10 metres for wide-angle images and 6.5 metres in telephoto mode. This can be increased further with the addition an external flash gun. Coupled with a high sensitivity mode, subjects can be monitored clearly in the darkest of locations.

The anti-blur mode increases the ISO sensitivity, enabling the camera to shoot at faster shutter speeds. This reduces the camera movement particularly in low light situations.

The 3x wide-zoom optical lens (28-85mm equivalent) captures wide angle shots, which is an advantage for scenic and landscape photography. The zoom does not extend out of the Caplio 500G’s sealed housing so it remains protected from any dust or dirt. This also reduces the risk of accidental damage to the lens when fully extended. For even wider shots, an optional wide conversion lens increases the focal range to 22mm.

The added convenience of a camera memo function allows users to attach location information to photograph data – a boon for those adventuring in remote or off-the-map areas. Reliable photography is also guaranteed with both a high resolution 2.5 inch LCD monitor and optical viewfinder.

Designed to capture all the high-speed action of outdoor pursuits, the Caplio 500G Wide focuses and shoots in a fast 0.10 seconds. With a 1.2 second startup time, it’s ready to snap the most fleeting of moments.

Super long battery life is ensured with the included lithium–ion battery, capable of shooting 400 continuous shots (CIPA standard). It is also compatible with conventional or rechargeable AA batteries and an AC adapter.

Packing even more into this digital powerhouse, the Caplio 500G Wide also offers:

An improved 1cm macro mode Skew correction mode – straightens images shot from off centre positions PictBridge for the printing of pictures directly from the camera via a USB connector. This eliminates the need for PC intervention Transfer of image files to a computer without the need for software

The Ricoh Caplio 500G Wide will available from August for UK£400 or AUD$1099 - no US pricing as yet.