Help: Camera for travel

[Two Fivenagame]

I’ve looked through the forums and couldn’t find anything that would help specifically but there are a lot of photographers on this board so I thought I might create a new thread (my first) and pray it isn’t a FATA.

So here goes..

I’ll be leaving for a trip to New Zealand in a few months and I want to get a Digital Camera. Some of my friends have DSLRs and I love using them for taking pictures but I’m afraid I would find carrying around a DSLR a bit cumbersom. I also don’t want a small camera that emphasizes portability over quality but, as a friend suggested; “…you’ll carry a smaller camera around with you more often and thus, more pictures.”

Is there such a thing as a smaller DSLR or some kind of happy medium?

Any suggestions would be appreciated

Price range – up to $1000

[ah123]

Take a look at the Nikon D40 or D60, those are pretty small DSLRs (I am sure there is a Canon equivalent as well). I have travelled with a DSLR and found that it is not that big an issue (especially if you have a case that fits in a backpack or so)...it is when you start collecting lenses, that travelling becomes an issue

If that is still too big, take a look at the Canon G10.

Hope that helps

[OBCT]

Some ideas based on your specs:

Non-DSLR (ie. Point and Shoot; range in size from ultra-compact to moderately large)
Canon PowerShot G10
Canon PowerShot XS10 IS
Panasonic LX3

DSLR (range in size from moderately large to very large, especially in professional settings)
Canon Rebel XSi
Nikon D60
Olympus E-420
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1
Pentax K20D


EDIT: It is tough for any of us to say whether or not a DSLR camera is the right choice for you. Many people say that once they "go DSLR" they could never go back. For others, DSLRs are simply too much camera. Whether you go for a 'lower end', small body DSLR or a 'higher end' compact camera for similar $$$, I think you will be happy with your choice. All the cameras listed above will provide good image quality with a full set of features.

DSLR's generally offer more features and upgradability, with flexibility (and extra cost) of interchangeable lenses, and are not always as large and hulking as you'd think.

P&S's offer portability, obviously, and depending on the photographer, may offer ample features as well.

There's no beating a DSLR for a $1000 budget, but it is amazing what they can pack into a P&S these days. If you have a chance, go to a good camera store and try 'demoing' a few different models out for yourself. Once you've done your research, it often boils down to comfort, feel, ergonomics and ease-of-use to break the tie.

[User Name]

You might also want to take into consideration what activities you are going to be doing... Might be worth looking into those cameras that are shock/water resistant. Cameras get frequently dropped (especially when traveling and drinking!).. Its nice to have one thats not quite so frail. Check out the olympus cameras (haven't used em myself)
http://www.olympusamerica.com/cpg_se...digital_sw.asp

[SinceDay1]

The Panansonic DMC-G1 might be up your alley.

http://www.imaging-resource.com/PRODS/DMCG1/DMCG1A.HTM

[SebC]

Get a cheap cannon point and shoot, then load DSLR-ish software onto it.

http://chdk.wikia.com/wiki/CHDK

[Regulator75]

I have heard nothing but good things about the Canon G series.

[Two Fivenagame]

Just an update and a quick thanks for the help.

So after all the research i finally picked up a Panasonic FZ28 and i'm reeeeeally happy with it so far. It got a good review at dpreview.com in a "superzoom test" and it just felt really solid and well made. 10mp 18X optical zoom (good IS!) Face detection, macro up to 1cm, good performance in higher ISO (not DSLR quality but one of the best of it's kind) and it records movies at 720p. Camera+Bag+2x8G SDHC+power converter for $550. I almost bought a Canon Rebel XS (1000D) with the standard kit lense for $600 and i'm glad I didn't.

Very happy with this little camera

[OBCT]

Glad to hear about your camera buying experience. It's always good to hear stories of people finding exactly what they were looking for.

Have fun with it!