Introduction
The Ricoh WG-80 is a robust and versatile digital camera engineered for demanding outdoor environments and adventurous photography. Designed to withstand harsh conditions, it is waterproof up to 14 meters (45 feet) for two hours, shockproof against drops from 1.6 meters (5.2 feet), freezeproof down to -10°C (14°F), and crushproof up to 100 kgf (220 lbf). Equipped with a 16-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor and a 5x optical zoom lens, the WG-80 delivers high-quality images and full HD video. Its unique features, such as six adjustable Macro Lights and a dedicated Underwater mode, make it an ideal companion for capturing thrilling experiences both on land and underwater.
The Ricoh WG-80 is built for diverse adventure scenarios, from snowy mountains to underwater exploration.
Safety Information
- Waterproof Integrity: Ensure all covers (battery/card slot, USB port) are securely closed and free of debris before exposing the camera to water. Failure to do so will compromise its waterproof capabilities and may cause damage.
- Temperature Limits: Operate the camera within its specified temperature range (-10°C to 40°C / 14°F to 104°F). Extreme temperatures can affect performance and battery life.
- Battery Safety: Use only genuine or recommended batteries. Do not expose batteries to excessive heat, direct sunlight, or dispose of them in fire. Keep batteries out of reach of children.
- Cleaning: After underwater use, rinse the camera with fresh water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth. Do not use organic solvents or abrasive cleaners.
- Avoid Disassembly: Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the camera. This will void the warranty and may lead to malfunction or injury.
What's in the Box
Your Ricoh WG-80 retail package should contain the following items:
- Ricoh WG-80 Digital Camera Body
- Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery
- USB Power Adapter
- USB Cable
- Macro Stand
- Strap
- Original Box
- Quick Start Guide (Full manual available online)
Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the key components and controls of your WG-80 camera.
Front View: Features the 5x optical zoom lens, six LED Macro Lights around the lens, and the built-in flash.
Rear View: Displays the 2.7-inch LCD screen, directional pad with OK button, Mode button, Menu button, Playback button, and Zoom controls (W/T).
The camera's rugged design includes reinforced corners and a textured grip for durability and secure handling in challenging conditions.
Setup
1. Charging the Battery
- Open the battery/card compartment cover on the side of the camera.
- Insert the supplied battery into the battery slot, ensuring correct orientation.
- Connect the USB cable to the camera's USB port and the other end to the USB power adapter.
- Plug the USB power adapter into a wall outlet. The charging indicator light will illuminate.
- Charging is complete when the indicator light turns off. A full charge typically takes approximately 2.5 hours.
2. Inserting a Memory Card
The WG-80 supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. A Class 10 or higher card is recommended for video recording.
- With the camera powered off, open the battery/card compartment cover.
- Insert the memory card into the card slot with the label facing the front of the camera until it clicks into place.
- Close the battery/card compartment cover securely until it latches.
3. Initial Power On and Date/Time Setting
- Press and hold the Power button until the LCD screen turns on.
- If this is the first time powering on, the date and time setting screen will appear.
- Use the directional buttons to navigate and adjust the date, time, and time zone.
- Press the OK button to confirm your settings.
Operating the Camera
Basic Photography (Still Images)
- Turn on the camera by pressing the Power button.
- Select the desired shooting mode using the Mode button. For general photography, use the "Auto Picture" mode.
- Frame your shot using the LCD screen. Use the W/T (Zoom) buttons to adjust the optical zoom.
- Press the shutter button halfway down to focus. The focus frame will turn green when focus is achieved.
- Press the shutter button all the way down to take the picture.
Video Recording
- In any shooting mode, press the dedicated Movie button to start recording.
- Press the Movie button again to stop recording. The camera records video in MP4 format at 1080p resolution.
Macro Photography with Macro Lights
The WG-80 features six LED Macro Lights around the lens, ideal for illuminating close-up subjects.
The six LED Macro Lights provide bright, uniform illumination for close-up shots, with adjustable brightness levels.
- Switch to Macro mode (usually indicated by a flower icon).
- The Macro Lights will automatically turn on. You can adjust their brightness in the menu settings or by pressing the dedicated Macro Light button (if available).
- Position the camera close to your subject (the minimum focusing distance is approximately 1 cm).
- Press the shutter button to capture your macro shot.
Underwater Photography
The WG-80 is designed for underwater use. Utilize the dedicated Underwater mode for optimal results.
The "Mermaid Mode" (Underwater mode) optimizes white balance and color for natural-looking underwater photos and videos.
- Before entering water, ensure the battery/card compartment cover and USB port cover are completely sealed.
- Select the "Underwater" or "Underwater Movie" mode from the shooting modes. This mode automatically adjusts white balance and contrast for underwater conditions.
- For still images, the camera can take two consecutive shots, with the flash off for the first shot to avoid startling fish.
- Frame and shoot as usual.
Playback
- Press the Playback button to view your captured images and videos.
- Use the directional buttons to scroll through your media.
- Press the OK button to view video files or zoom into still images.
Image Finish Modes
The WG-80 offers various "Image Finish" modes to customize the look of your photos, similar to those found in PENTAX DSLR cameras.
Examples of "Miyabi" (Vivid) and "Cross Process" image finish modes, which alter color and tone.
These modes include "Vivid," "Natural," "Miyabi" (Artistic), "Reversal Film," "Monochrome," and "Cross Process." Select your preferred mode from the menu to match your creative vision.
Maintenance
Cleaning the Camera
- Camera Body: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, dampen the cloth slightly with water. Do not use alcohol, paint thinner, or other organic solvents.
- Lens: Use a lens brush to remove dust, then gently wipe with a lens cleaning cloth. Avoid touching the lens surface with your fingers.
- LCD Screen: Use a soft, dry cloth. For smudges, a specialized LCD screen cleaner can be used sparingly.
Waterproof Care
- After using the camera in saltwater, rinse it thoroughly with fresh water while keeping all covers closed.
- Dry the camera completely with a soft cloth before opening any compartments.
- Periodically check the rubber seals (gaskets) inside the battery/card and USB port covers for dirt, sand, or damage. Clean them gently if necessary. Do not use sharp objects.
Storage
When not in use for extended periods, store the camera in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight and high humidity. Remove the battery if storing for more than a month.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause / Solution |
|---|---|
| Camera does not turn on. | Battery is depleted. Charge the battery. Battery is inserted incorrectly. Reinsert the battery with correct orientation. |
| Cannot take pictures. | Memory card is full. Delete some images or insert a new card. Memory card is not inserted. Insert a memory card. Battery is low. Charge the battery. |
| Images are blurry. | Lens is dirty. Clean the lens. Subject is too close or too far for the current focus mode. Adjust distance or mode. Camera shake. Hold the camera steady or use a tripod. |
| Water inside the camera. | Compartment covers were not properly sealed. Immediately power off the camera, remove the battery, and seek professional service. Do not attempt to dry or use the camera. |
| Macro Lights not working. | Macro Lights are turned off in settings. Enable them in the menu. Not in Macro mode. Switch to Macro mode. |
Specifications
Key dimensions and performance metrics of the Ricoh WG-80.
- Model Name: WG-80
- Image Sensor: 16 Megapixel 1/2.3-inch Back-illuminated CMOS
- Effective Still Resolution: 16 MP
- Lens: 5x Optical Zoom (28-140mm equivalent)
- Digital Zoom: Approx. 7.2x (approx. 36x combined with optical zoom)
- ISO Sensitivity: 100-6400
- Display: 2.7-inch LCD (approx. 230K dots)
- Video Resolution: 1080p (Full HD) at 30 fps, MP4 format
- Waterproof: Up to 14 meters (45 feet) for 2 hours (JIS Class 8)
- Shockproof: Up to 1.6 meters (5.2 feet)
- Crushproof: Up to 100 kgf (220 lbf)
- Freezeproof: Down to -10°C (14°F)
- Macro Lights: 6 LED Macro Lights with adjustable brightness
- Storage Media: SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Card
- Connectivity: USB
- Power Source: Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery
- Dimensions (W x H x D): Approx. 122.5 x 61.5 x 29.5 mm (4.82 x 2.42 x 1.16 inches)
- Weight: Approx. 15.2 ounces (431 grams) with battery and memory card
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Pentax/Ricoh Imaging website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
For technical support, troubleshooting assistance beyond this manual, or service inquiries, please contact Pentax/Ricoh Imaging customer support through their official website or the contact information provided in your product documentation.
Online Resources:
