Do i get a waterproof/dustproof camera, a high-ish quality DSLR type camera AND a point and shoot or a decent DSLR???
So im going on my RTW trip in 3 weeks and I need a new camera. I have a Lumix TZ3 (I think, the 10x digital zoom one) but it has stopped working so i have to get a new one. I was really pleased with my lumix (except that it broke!) and i loved that it took really good high quality photos for a compact camera...
Now im tempted by the Pentax Optio W60. However, im aware that because its waterproof, its not going to take as high quality photos as a non waterproof camera of the same price. I really like the idea that i'd be able to take it snorkelling and to the beach (and to Everest Base Camp which is my 2nd stop!) and it'd cope. However, i dont like the idea that i probably wouldnt be able to capture beautiful scenery etc
Ive always wanted a DSLR because im just plain envious of the quality. However, I cant really afford one. However, i have been looking at the Fujifilm FinePix S5700. Its not quite a DSLR but it has a decent zoom and appears as though it would take really good quality pics. Id also be worried about taking it backpacking cos although its not expensive, it does scream 'mug me'! But i thought that I could maybe buy that and a really cheap point and shoot for when i dont want to get it out.
I could just shell out and get a semi decent DSLR. I could also get another lumix. I could just buy any reasonably priced camera and spend my money on something else entirely.. . HELP!
I just dont know what to do! Has anyone else had any experience with any of these cameras? Particularily the fuji film and the pentax ones? What would you do???
Reply to this Well ultimately - it's always going to be a compromise; money vs. quality, quality vs. weight, durability vs. features.
Some things to consider though;
Higher end DSLRs have what they refer to as environmental sealing - meaning rubber seals to keep moisture and dirt out - these are not the low end models but features that pro's need; and starting appearing in the highend prosumer (serious hobbiest) models.
If you have had a good experience with a camera - and you have learned it's interface and quirks and the new model is receiving good reviews why switch? - I've heard lots of good things about the Lumix - is the newest model a good one?
Most cameras should be ok at Everest base camp - battery life will be the problem there - charge up a few and keep them in an internal pocket. Snorkelling is a feature that the Pentax W60 has to it's advantage.
I camera that is waterproof to 10m - isn't suitable for diving - when snorkelling - it's hard taking photos - I'd suggest that if you want to get into underwater photography - get an underwater housing for a good point and shoot. But - remember you're getting in to a seriously expensive hobby! - diving is expensive unless you take time out to work in the industry.
Low end DSLR's aren't as expensive as you might think... Nikon D60 + Kit Lens ~$500 (amazon price)
Hope that gives you something to think about!
Reply to this I just have to throw in my camera into the mix because I am absolutely in love with it and the pictures look wonderful.
We bought a Panasonic Lumix point and shoot....but it looks like a DSLR! Future Shop has one that is very similar to ours
here. We got ours for just under $350 as our megapixel rate is around 8.1 but its so wortht the money!
I also bought a simple Roots camera case for ours that fit our camera and battery charger all in one. We kept this either on ourselves or in our packs and the camera bag did a wonderful job of keeping the camera nice and clean.
From Future Shop:
"Why we love this camera:
The most impressive feature of this camera is the 18X optical zoom lens which gives you unsurpassable range in the point-and-shoot category. Close-ups are sharp, clear, and actually close, while wider angle shots let you capture it all. It also comes with MEGA O.I.S. which uses internal gyrators to ensure shots come out clear, even if your hand shakes a little, and Face Detections for frame-worthy portraits. If that’s not enough, you’ll also enjoy the added benefits of Intelligent Exposure, Digital Red-eye Correction, and 37 different scene modes."
Reply to this LivingLife - I had a look at that camera but i think its a little bit too big for me.
Ive decided that i dont need a waterproof camera... for the few underwater pictures i'm likely to take, i'll get a waterproof disposable camera.
Im going to go with the Canon Sx110, its meant to be on par with the Lumix TZ5 but with ever so slightly better image quality and with more manual controls.
I did look at the Sony H10 as i liked the idea of being able to use filters, but i didnt like that i'd have to buy new memory cards and i like that the Canon takes AA batteries.
Ive wanted a dslr for ages, but i think i'll wait till I get a proper job and can afford a good one!
Reply to this Tori - the camera looks big but its not. I would say its about as big as
this one when its in your hands. But than again, I like to hold onto my camera and not something smaller. But thats just me, I'm always worried I'll drop it!
Reply to this I've got fujifilm s5800,it's more likely the s5700 but it got 8.2mp and 10x zoom..it's is a pretty good camera and I really like it but if you're really would like to get serious about photography,you'll outgrow it very fast..I only have it for 2 months or so but I have been eager to buy a new one..A good DSLR..I'm not sure yet what to get,the "low-end" d60 or d80 or d90...it's really quite difficult to choose
Reply to this If you've not got much experience using a DSLR yet, I would wait for now. They take awhile to get used to and it would be a shame to miss some shots on your trip because you didn't have the settings right.
There's not much point spending money on a camera that only looks like a DSLR but doesn't have the same functionality. Save your money for a proper entry-level DSLR. I've been extremely happy with my Olympus E510 - a lot of camera in a little package for not much money.
On my trips I always take a compact digital camera as well as my DSLR. I use it for quick snaps of things I want to remember (names of restaurants for instance) and also it comes in handy for people snaps (I don't feel nervous handing it over to a stranger, plus it's easier to explain how to use). On my blog I use images from both cameras.
The way compacts have advanced lately, you can almost get DSLR quality and functionality in a package that can be sturdier, perfect for a round the world odyssey. Not having to swap lenses as you would on a DSLR means no hassle with dust, too!
Happy travels!
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