The I Thought I Should Take a Camera Crowd?
If you are just buying a camera because you think you should take one, think again. Does your mobile take pictures? Use that as well - they won't be very good - but you save some money and have one less gadget to carry around.
The Serious Hobbiyst
At the other extreme - the serious amateur photographer probably already has the gear. If that's what you enjoy doing - then take your gear with you. Yes, I know some people will tell you to leave the expensive stuff at home, but really? Isn't this at least part of the reason why you want to travel?
I do suggest that you make some choices - don't take every lens you own! If you are mainly shooting landscapes make sure you have a wide-angle lens, if potraiture is more you thing than a good zoom. Tripods are very bulky, and may not be practical to carry with you for a day's sightseeing. Also many places that allow cameras will forbid tripods (they get in the way). A small gorilla grip style tripod may be useful though. Most importantly - make sure you travel insurance will cover your gear!
The Rest Of Us
The other 90% of us need to remember that a fantastic camera won't necessarily make you a better photographer! If you don't know the basics of good photography - how to frame a photo, how to focus in on details to make for interesting shots, the rules of thirds, avoiding trees or building growing out of people's heads - then it might be a good idea to start off with a basic photography book - there are plenty out there. Its quite possible to take decent photos with an average camera.
Camera models change all the time, but some names come up every time: Canon, Nikon, Sony. Serious photographers will argue the relative merits, for the rest of us - they all work just fine.
Which camera do you like to travel with and why?
I am a point and shoot camera person, but I have learnt a couple of tricks to better frame my photos. My husband is a keen amateur photographer so he the full on DSLR and several lenses. I have seen his journey to learn how to take better photos, which has involved several courses and a lot of experimentation.
As a result I cringe when I hear someone say just before they head off on a trip 'I am buying a DSLR so I can take better photos'.
Interesting. I wonder what the difference is between your camera and my Canon G11. Great photos.
Nice tips on taking great shots, I love the Nikon, my youngest wants one. I think I'll suggest she cleans up her room first. But seriously, once kids are old enough to take pictures its a great way to vary up the who's who in the photos and get everyone in the shots, with out threat of theft, like we see in the movies. Great cameras and awesome tips, thanks
Great article! My Canon Power Shot died on me. It was only sid years old. I think it was from dropping it so many times. That's obviously something to avoid. I bought a cheap point and shoot to use while I decide what I really want.
Very well written article, Lissie! I rarely leave the house without my trusty but rusty Canon DSLR, but I agree, the whole equipment can be a bit heavy when traveling ;-) Have also a look at the Canon G series, they are expensive, but the pictures are outstanding, I think the Canon G12 is the latest available model, with the Canon G13 coming soon, but will be marketed as 'Canon EOS G1X' just to confuse us a bit more ;-) Great and useful article on what to look for in a travel camera!
Great topic idea and great article! I last bought a camera for travel 5 years ago - and chose the lightest most compact DSLR on the market at the time. I love it but found myself using it less and less in recent years. It felt too conspicuous, especially in countries where it seemed to highlight my relative wealth. And I was constantly mucking about changing lenses. I've often wished I had one of the excellent hybrid cameras available these days - but I'm one who keeps things until they don't work anymore so I guess it will be a while before I'm looking for a new one!
Great page! I love photography and am an avid photo taker. I have Nikon DSLRs and a SLR. I have been looking for a pocket-able point and shoot camera and really like you guide/list for selecting a new camera.
Thanks for your kind comments Angel! I haven't done any photography articles for ages, but I this one was fun, I might have to do a few more related ones!
I am in the market for a good camera. Not so much for travel pics but more for close up pics for my makeup articles. To take pics of eye and eye makeup. I will have to look into these you have listed and see if one will fit my needs. Thanks for the great travel photos.. I admire you for traveling all over. I really like your dancing articles too..please do more.