Toronto Photography Meetup Group

Hi Folks,

I'm going backpacking for 6 months or longer and I don't want to be lugging around heavy equipment, expensive lenses, etc.

So initially I thought about buying a Canon T2i because of the HD video capability and using a 17-85mm IS lens (I've had one before) would probably give me a good balance for the types of shots I normally take.

Now I'm considering getting something like a lumix ts1 which is sturdy and my friend has taken some great shots with it - macro and landscapes. It has enough manual functions to suit my tinkering needs.

Anyways, I'm curious as to what others think, can suggest or have used in their travels.

My primary objectives are to:
- travel minimal/light
- be able to record HD video
- keep the budget under $1500 CAD
- have enough flexibility between auto and manual functions
- take great photos

Thanks in advance!

-Anf

D7000

That's a terrible recommendation that's over his budget and too big for his purpose.


I suggest taking a look at the Pentax 645D
http://www.ephotozine.com/article/Pentax-645D-13785

^--- lol!

If you are considering the TS1, try the Samsung EX1/TL500.
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/samsungtl500/

There are mods to attach on a hood and or put on a 49mm filter/polarizer
http://www.lensmateonline.com/store/sam ... 00_EX1.php

Just take what you have now. Save the money for your trip.

hah

Have you considered the battery issue? If you're not going to be near an outlet for a while, how are you going to recharge your batteries?

T2i met ALL your request already, especially the LAST point (take great photos)

few suggestions:
bring extra batteries, memories cards,
an P&S camera as backup (what will you do if your T2i is not working/lost/stolen)

have fun & enjoy your trip
don't forget to post some photos when u get back

Other than the manual control, most of the current crop of smartphones will do the other things you ask quite well.

Panasonic GF1?

Portable, comparable DSLR image quality, light, compact, etc.., etc...

This would be my travel camera, if I travelled.

Actually the Pentax 645D is pretty awesome..... But I think you just blew everyone's budget!

Actually the D7000 and kit lens is about $1500, plus tax... Oops.

Have you considered Sony Nex-5?
The image quality is as good as any DSLR but with size of compacted ps. The price had came down quite a bit since its launch. Another for this over p&s is since its a DSLR it tends to retain its value for a longer period. It matches all you objective except for its manual funtion, could be quite difficult to get used to.
Oh and also want to mention about Mn alloy so it can handle couple of drops!

If you have time to wait, there is a new trend of APS-C sensor p&s cameras catching on. Fujifilm is coming up with a great little p&s, one drawback is a fixed prime lens, if you see it as drawback

Other drawbacks are $1100 price tag and February estimated delivery.

Another possibility would be a film camera and mail the undeveloped rolls back to someone in Canada.

You should determine what you want to get out of this trip, focusing the trip on photography can prevent you from living in the moment because you are concerned more about getting those shots rather then participating. Also with an expensive camera you are alway going to have to watch over your equipment.

crap I knew it was going to be expensive, but never realized that much. Still beats the Leica p&s at 2k

+1 for film cameras if you know how to use them.

Pentax k-r body with a DA 40mm lens. Small, lightweight, fantastic high ISO and image stabilization with all lenses. Grab a couple of inexpensive K mount manual focus lenses to boot if you want.