Ricoh Imaging is pleased to announce the launch of the RICOH GR IV HDF camera. Based on the RICOH GR IV premium compact camera, this new model incorporates the RICOH-original HDF Highlight Diffusion Filter), designed to deliver mellow, diffused expression with a single-action control.With the exceptional image quality, flawless point-andshoot operation, and outstanding portability that the GR series is known for, the GR IV HDF allows the user to instantly engage the built-in HDF (Highlight Diffusion Filter) with a single action. This special-effect filter diffuses highlight areas and creates a blurred effect along the image's edges, making it possible to capture somewhat nostalgic images resembling those captured in film photography or vintage movies.This creative versatility expands the visual boundaries of snapshot photography, giving the user the option to shoot high resolution, high contrast images for accuracy and precision or softer, more expressive images to create a sense of depth and emotion, depending on their subject or creative intention.The GR IV HDF also features an electronically controlled shutter mechanism, which allows the user to intentionally raise the shutter speed up to 1/16,000 second, making it possible to capture images at extremely bright locations while still setting a larger aperture. This mechanism will also be available for the RICOH GR IV using new function-expansion firmware, which is scheduled to be released following the launch of the new RICOH GR IV HDF.Built-in RICOH-original HDF (Highlight Diffusion Filter), to create softer, more expressive imagesThe GR IV HDF incorporates the RICOH-original HDF (Highlight Diffusion Filter), which is designed to emphasize highlights and produce mellow, soft images. Developed by taking advantage of the advanced inkjet technology RICOH has cultivated over the years, this special-effect filter diffuses highlight areas and creates a blurred effect along the image's edges, making it possible to capture nostalgic images resembling those captured in film photography or movies. HDF can be instantly switched on and off with a single action, allowing the user effortlessly to alternate between two completely different visual expressions - clear, sharply focused images representative of the RICOH GR series, and softer light, more expressive images captured by the HDF - depending on the subject or creative intention.High-speed electronic shutter with a top speed of 1/16,000 second for shooting at extremely bright locationsIn addition to a conventional mechanical shutter unit, the GR IV HDF also features an electronically controlled shutter mechanism, which allows the user to intentionally raise the shutter speed up to 1/16,000 second, making it possible to capture images at extremely bright locations while still setting a larger aperture.Note: This mechanism can also be installed on the RICOH GR IV using new function expansion firmware (scheduled to be released following the launch of the RICOH GR IV HDF).HDF default setting for Fn Button and update to Shutterrelease button colorThe default setting of the Fn (Function) button has been changed to the HDF ON/OFF switching function, allowing the user to quickly engage the HDF (Highlight Diffusion Filter) with the press of the button.Note: The default setting of the Fn button can be changed to other functions.