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JHatta · 05-01-2012, 09:18 AM

Hey

I am looking to get a DSLR camera for my upcoming backpacking trip, and know very little about the different attributes/features that DSLR cameras provide.

Are there any good helpme/noobie threads that can explain these cameras, and maybe compare popular models and their features?

Thanks

m3thods · 05-01-2012, 09:54 AM

The sticky above is a good read. A lot of people are in your position, and reading the last few pages there's a good selection of questions and suggestions. Unfortunately, photography is one of those things where you really learn by doing. Just look up photography basics (exposure triangle) if you're not familiar with it, as pretty much all dslrs have the same features/controls.

Firstly, figure out what kind of dslr you want (you didn't mention budget, which is why I say that).

If you want a budget camera, think Nikon D3100/5100, or Canon T3/T2i/T3i.

A prosumer camera? Think Nikon D7000 or Canon 60D/7D

Want a pro camera? There are cameras of interest coming out in the near future (D700/D800, 5dm2/3)

There really isn't much to it- however, one thing you should think about is whether this is a one-off deal for you, or are you thinking you are serious about taking up photography.

If it's the prior, I suggest going to Craigslist and looking for deals there. There are a ton of people who "take up photography" only to sell their camera once they realize they don't use it.

If it's the latter, I'd suggest going the Craigslist route for a used body, and invest more money in better lenses. They are where picture quality is noticeably improved.

Lastly, if you're backpacking, I'd really look into an EVIL camera- micro 4/3ds like a Panasonic GF2/3, or an APS-C sensor compact like the Sony NEX. You get comparable image quality to a dslr, at a fraction of the size and cost.

!MiKrofT · 05-01-2012, 11:24 AM

+1 for an EVIL type of camera. Portability + Handles like a point and shoot but with way better image quality.

artmotion · 05-01-2012, 04:36 PM

Yeah, lugging around a DSLR is a bit of a pain at times. If you're backpacking, it could be a serious hassle. I would even consider buying a canon S95 or S100. They have really great image quality but with a really small form factor.

Mananetwork · 05-01-2012, 11:53 PM

If you want a small travel camera, I'd suggest looking into a Fuji x10 or the Sony Nex7

Ronin · 05-02-2012, 12:04 AM

+1 for micro 4/3rds for traveling light. They're just as capable if you have the right lenses and great for street photography. People are much less apprehensive around them compared to a giant pro body behemoth, especially the Fuji that looks like a film camera.

I backpacked through Europe with a small sling bag of camera equipment in addition to a backpack. If I had to do it again, I'd still bring my 5D but probably pack lighter. You don't need as much as you think.

If you decide to go the m4/3rds route, I think a ~20mm (most are 17mm?...most are also f1.7 or f1.8) is essential. That will be your everyday lens since it's mostly normal focal length and the bright aperture will give you enough versatility for all situations. If you really want to pack light, I'd say that's the lens to bring if you can only bring one. I had a Panasonic GF1 (I think that's the model number) for awhile for testing and loved it. When I sell my 1D MkII, I'll go buy a 4/3rds camera to play around with. I saw the GF1 body on Amazon.com for $150 awhile back.

Mananetwork · 05-02-2012, 12:17 AM

I'm getting tired of taking my 5d2 + 24LII travelling.. but then i'm also tired of editing too lol

Ronin · 05-02-2012, 12:21 AM

Solution: give me your 24L. Do it now. Before it's too late.

m3thods · 05-02-2012, 08:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mananetwork

I'm getting tired of taking my 5d2 + 24LII travelling.. but then i'm also tired of editing too lol

lol the editing is what kills me too- I don't mind bringing around my 50D, but for some reason when I come back to my hotel/home base I come back with a couple of full 8GB CF cards

but if you are parting out.. I wouldn't mind upgrading to ff

Ronin · 05-02-2012, 10:06 AM

it's part of the job, you pansies...quit yer belly achin'!

yray · 05-02-2012, 11:05 AM

shoot jpeg then

Hehe · 05-02-2012, 11:56 AM

IMHO, unless you absolute NEED to, don't carry a DSLR on a long backpacking trip.

I would either get a good point and shoot with full manual override (aperture/shutter priority, manual) or EVIL at most.

My poor friend carried his D700+14-28/70-200 VRII/35F1.4 on his recent Europe backpacking trip. He missed so many places because his back just couldn't take anymore walking. Ended up buying a P&S half way and asked his one of his friend (who was only doing halfway because of work schedule) to bring his set back to Canada.

m3thods · 05-02-2012, 02:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ronin

it's part of the job, you pansies...quit yer belly achin'!

As much as I'm complaining (really only because amount of work), I enjoy editing as much as taking photos. I just need to figure out how to automate the process more for the tedious edits

From my own experience:

I brought my 50D with all my lenses (17-85, 70-300, 50) and all accessories to the Philippines. Even with rides in cars/airplanes, it was not worth the hassle. I strongly suggest getting less while backpacking. It also helps to enjoy your trip more if you're carrying less- you worry less about theft, AND your back will thank you.

Ronin · 05-02-2012, 06:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hehe

IMHO, unless you absolute NEED to, don't carry a DSLR on a long backpacking trip.

I would either get a good point and shoot with full manual override (aperture/shutter priority, manual) or EVIL at most.

My poor friend carried his D700+14-28/70-200 VRII/35F1.4 on his recent Europe backpacking trip. He missed so many places because his back just couldn't take anymore walking. Ended up buying a P&S half way and asked his one of his friend (who was only doing halfway because of work schedule) to bring his set back to Canada.

Most recently I lugged all my camera gear through Puerto Rico. I climbed a mountain in Japan wearing a 1D Mk II and 3 lenses. Weaklings! I can't wait to travel with my 5D, though...it's like half the weight.

I wouldn't go full point and shoot. I feel like even with a Canon S100 or a Panasonic LX5 or something I wouldn't have the things I need. Micro 4/3rds with a pancake. Seriously.