Cool Cameras: Pentax WG-10

I was doing a little web browsing recently and came across an article on the best digital cameras for kids.  The one I though looked really cool was the Pentax Optio WG-10 (at least the red version looks cool.)

Pentax Optio WG-10, Photo from Ricoh website

The camera is currently available at Target for $149.99.  (Normally $179.99)


For that price you get a 14MP waterproof, shockproof, and freeze resistant point-and-shoot camera.  The rugged nature makes it perfect for active kids (or active big kids).  It comes with a 14 MP CCD sensor, 5X optical zoom and an interesting macro mode.

The WG-10 has five LED lights around the lens that can be used to illuminate a target when shooting macros.  This provides far better lighting when shooting closeup shots than a flash located further away from the lens.  It also has the ability to focus on objects as close as 1 cm away from the camera, and a stand is included help keep the object in focus.  

A full review of the WG-10 including sample images taken with the camera can be found at ePhotozine.

I did find one review where someone actually managed to damage the camera.  Rugged is not the same as indestructible.


Ricoh does offer what is basically an upgraded version of the WG-10, the WG-3.  This camera has a 16MP CMOS sensor and is waterproof to 45 feet, but costs more.  Ricoh also makes this model with optional GPS for those active types that tend to get lost.

The WG-3 is available in orange, white and black . The GPS version comes in purple or green.  It does not, unfortunately, come in red.