Pentax WG-8

WG 8 PENTAX Camera | PENTAX WG-8

RICOH IMAGING COMPANY, LTD. is pleased to announce the release of the new WG-8 PENTAX . Conceived as the new flagship of the PENTAX WG range of heavy-duty cameras, this digital compact boasts a range of advanced features (such as the ability to act as a webcam) and stands as a great choice for both outdoor action photography and multiple applications. Part of its hallmark is its remarkable resistance to water, shocks and extreme temperatures.

The offer of waterproof and shockproof cameras has been growing in popularity. These models have a range of functions that other cameras and smartphones cannot offer. RICOH IMAGING now has three models under the PENTAX brand (WG-8, WG-1000 and WG-90) that are characterized by combining excellent optics with a wide focal range and sophisticated image processing. The new top-of-the-range model in this series, the PENTAX WG-8, comes with a complete and interesting set of features. In addition to the 1/2.3-inch back-illuminated CMOS sensor with 20 megapixels, the compact and lightweight body boasts a robustness and reliability that invite you to face any adventure, even 20 meters underwater. With a zoom range of 28-140 millimeters in universal pass, it is also a camera suitable for education and research. A special ring of LED lights in combination with incredible macro capture capabilities means that this WG-8 can obtain large-scale images of the tiniest subjects. The webcam function makes it easier to share these live shots.

Key features of the WG-8 PENTAX

High-quality images

With a state-of-the-art 1/2.3-inch back-illuminated CMOS sensor (which provides low-noise images with high sensitivities) and a high-performance processor, the WG-8 offers a maximum sensitivity of ISO 6,400 and super-high-resolution captures with approximately 20 effective megapixels. It also provides advanced image processing features, made possible by super-resolution technology, which ensures crisp and clear captures. Or functions as innovative as the 'Handheld Night Capture' mode, which records a shake-free night image from the capture of several shots of the same scene.

5x optical zoom with a 28mm wide angle

In addition to the sensor, the lens is a crucial part of the camera. And the 5x zoom of the WG-8 PENTAX offers a focal range ranging from 5 to 25 millimeters (equivalent to 28-140 millimeters in universal stop) from a sophisticated optical design of 11 elements distributed in 9 groups. This wide zoom range allows the camera to be used in a wide range of situations, from incredible close-up shots at a distance of just 1 centimetre from the subject, to wide landscapes, portraits and nature shots with the longest focal length.

In addition to the high-quality optical zoom, the PENTAX WG-8 also offers an intelligent zoom function that covers a range from 7x (with 10-megapixel shots) to 40.5x (with VGA resolution images).

Rugged construction for underwater shooting at a depth of up to 20 meters and for two hours

Today more than ever, photographs are a vital graphic testimony of all our experiences and adventures. Adventures that start on the water slide of the amusement park and that can continue with climbing or canoeing, kitesurfing or diving. And the more exciting the adventure, the greater the fear of taking the expensive camera or smartphone out of the bag; the greater the fear that our equipment will be damaged. With the WG-8 these worries vanish. Its rigid and airtight housing not only allows it to operate continuously for 2 hours at a depth of up to 20 meters in the water (IPX8 or JIS Class 8 certification). It is also designed to be drop-proof from heights of up to 2.1 meters* and dustproof (IPX6 or JIS Class 6), can operate in environments with temperatures up to minus 10 degrees Celsius and is capable of taking shocks of up to 100 kgf (kilogram-force)**. * Measured to RICOH IMAGING test standards: Dropped from a height of 2.1 meters onto a 5-centimeter thick plywood surface with the camera on, in accordance with MIL 810F Standard Impact Method 516-5.** Measured to RICOH IMAGING test standards.

4K video recording for high-quality, long-lasting videos

In addition to the photos we take and share with friends and family, videos offer a special opportunity to relive experiences and adventures. The WG-8 allows you to obtain high-quality 4K and H.264 format videos, with a resolution of 3,840 x 2,160 pixels and 30 frames per second. In addition to the conventional Movie SR (Shake Reduction) stabilization mode, the WG-8 features the new Movie SR+ mode, which creates a gimbal-like stabilization effect to ensure high-quality footage is captured in fast-moving outdoor activities.

Extensive shooting and editing functions

The PENTAX WG-8 has nothing to envy to many high-end cameras. It has several methods of measuring autofocus and exposure, and you can choose from a wide range of exposure options, such as the 18 scene programs to select the most suitable setting for each moment (such as the new composite depth of field mode), as well as unleash creativity with a total of 12 digital filters. Plus, there's no need to search through menus for each function, as the WG-8 offers two configurable modes on the control dial to store our favorite functions.

3-inch monitor with a wide viewing angle

In many circumstances, precise control of the frame can be a tricky task, which is particularly useful for the wide wide range offered by the WG-8. However, anyone who has the time and opportunity to adjust the image settings carefully or wants to review photos and videos after they are captured will be able to check the quality of this large and bright monitor. The WG-8 is equipped with a high-resolution LCD monitor and 3

inches with a ratio of 3:2 and approximately 1,040 million points. The anti-reflective (AR) coating minimises annoying flare and reflections, providing a crisp and clear view of the screen even in direct sunlight, as is often the case when shooting outdoors. It also has the 'Outdoor Vision' parameter, which allows you to adjust the brightness of the monitor to adapt it to changing light circumstances and optimize its use. To fine-tune the frame, the WG-8 offers an electronic level that allows you to check the horizontal and vertical tilt of the camera.

Advanced GPS features and built-in digital compass

The GPS module built into the WG-8 allows position and route data to be recorded in the captured images, adjusting the built-in clock to the local time. This module is easily activated and receives signals from GLONASS (Global Navigation Satellite System) as well as from the GPS satellites of the United States. The GPS lock function allows geolocation data to be saved in the images from previously stored information, which is highly convenient for captures taken inside buildings. GPS data, address information recorded by the digital compass and UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) data may also be superimposed in the lower right corner of the image. Powerful light ring with six LEDs As mentioned above, the WG-8 boasts a particularly close focusing distance of just one centimetre. This opens up a world of possibilities when it comes to documenting even the smallest details, although this type of shooting requires complex lighting configurations as the flash unit is of little use in these cases. To do this, the WG-8 features six LED lights mounted around the lens to minimise shake in macro and proximity shots. These six LEDs can be controlled individually, and selective illumination is possible by activating only the horizontally or vertically aligned lights to illuminate the subject in a more three-dimensional way and emphasize its contour. This function is also available for webcam mode. For applications where it is crucial that the image does not appear blurry, there is the possibility of remotely controlling the camera with an optional remote. To do this, the WG-8 has signal receptors in front of and behind the body.

Webcam function for high-quality image streaming

Simply activate the UVC (USB Video Class) mode on the WG-8 and connect it to a computer with the USB cable supplied with it to use it as a webcam with real-time transmission of Full HD video at 30 frames per second. By combining this feature with the macro capabilities of the camera and LED ring lights, it is possible to send more detailed and creative images than could be obtained with the computer's built-in camera. * Supported apps: Zoom, Skype®, Microsoft Teams®, Google, MeetTM, Cisco, WebEX,® Facebook, Messenger. Supported operating systems: Windows® 10, Windows® 11, MacOS 11, MacOS 12, MacOS13, MacOS 14. The webcam function does not provide audio signal. It is advisable to use the microphone built into your computer to communicate with sound. The optional TE-2 adapter is required to use the WG-8 on a tripod.

Accessories for more fun

In addition to batteries, bags or straps, there are other accessories designed for the WG-8 that are very interesting. Such as the special silicone protective case that not only protects the camera from dirt and scratches, but also improves its hold and makes it more comfortable to hold. Particularly noteworthy is the DW-5 wide-angle conversion lens, with a multiplication factor of 0.8x that extends the angle of view to a focal length equivalent to 20 millimeters in universal stop, allowing photos to be taken in tight spaces such as a sailboat or canoe. To use it, simply attach the lens to the thread for 37-millimeter filters.

Highlights of the WG-8

• 1/2.3-inch sensor with 20 MP for high-quality and high-resolution images.
• 5x optical zoom.
• Robust and resistant construction, capable of operating at 20 meters underwater.
• 4K video recording.
• Extensive shooting and editing options.
• 18 scene modes.
• 12 digital filters.
• Facial recognition for 30 faces (one for animals).
• 3-inch LCD monitor with a wide viewing angle.
• Built-in flash.
• Advanced GPS and built-in digital compass functions.
• Practical ring with six powerful LED lights.  
• High-quality images: incorporates a state-of-the-art back-illuminated CMOS sensor
•  generation with a size of 1/2.3 inches and 20 effective megapixels. Capture
•  also 4K video at 30 frames per second.
•  It can be used for two hours in a row at a depth of up to 20 meters in the
•  water, resist falls from 2.1 meters and operate in temperatures as low as -10º C.
•  It can accommodate impacts of up to 100 kgf and is sealed against dust.
•  It can work as a webcam to stream Full HD video.
•  Integrated GPS module to geolocate all captures.
•  The six-light LED ring integrated into the lens allows you to illuminate proximity shots .