Ricoh Imaging announces rugged PENTAX AF180FG compact auto flash, compatible with PENTAX DSLRs and RICOH GR Series cameras

New flash unit features dustproof, weather-resistant construction and simplified operation

PARSIPPANY, NJ, September 4, 2024 — Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation today announced the PENTAX AF180FG auto flash. Compatible with both PENTAX DSLRs and RICOH GR Series digital cameras, this compact, portable flash has a maximum guide number of 18 at ISO 100/m. Designed with outdoor shooting in mind, it features 18 seals in crucial parts of the body, including the hotshoe, making it a highly dependable dustproof, weather-resistant accessory. When paired with a dustproof, weather-resistant DSLR camera body and lens, it assures solid performance, even in harsh outdoor conditions such as rain, mist and dust. The AF180FG features bounce-flash functionality with a flash head that can be adjusted vertically to 10 different angles, up to 135°, to soften shadows and create more natural, true-to-life portraiture. Its simplified operating system lets the user start using the flash instantly by turning the discharge mode dial, which also functions as the ON/OFF switch. In addition to the OFF position, this dial provides a choice of four discharge modes: P-TTL auto flash with leading-curtain synchronization and P-TTL auto flash with trailing-curtain synchronization – in both settings, the flash’s preliminary emission is detected by the camera’s light sensor to accurately control the main discharge level for proper exposure; and manual flash with full discharge and manual flash with 1/4-level discharge. The AF180FG also incorporates a built-in wide-angle panel that slides out to cover a 20mm angle of view (in 35mm format). | Pricing and Availability | The AF180FG will be available mid-September for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $199.95.