What’s your fave digital camera for the trail?
Last summer, I replaced my Nikon Coolpix 2500 with a Pentax Optio S40 and have been loving it. It’s 20% smaller, lighter (4.4 oz), and twice the megapixels (4 MB). And if nothing else, I can use “real” AA batteries — specifically lithiums — rather than that rechargeable block that dies 4 days into a 6-day hike. Plus, I can still find rechargeable AA’s as an option. I prefer the dual use as backup batteries between my GPS, camera, flashlight, and propeller cap . . .
In high contrast situations, the lens shows its weakness. Just a touch of distortion on bright sunsets. But those are slight.
I keep the camera and a spare SD card tucked in a small Aloksak that rides in a front belt pouch. It powers on fast enough to shoot everything but the most skittish critters. And stayed dry through 4 days of solid North Cascades rain.
By comparison, my brother-in-law tried hiking with one of those Ebay digital cameras, the size of a lighter. Very lightweight, but when he got home all the photos looked like Bigfoot sightings. Next hike, he picked up a late model Olympus. I’ll see if he’ll post a review . . . Eh, Scott?
