Every now and then, I get a comment left on one of my photo essays, Facebook albums, or photo-heavy posts asking what kind of photo equipment I use. I’m always sort of flattered that people like my photos enough to be interested in my gear — especially considering that I don’t use anything fancy!
Yup, that’s right — no expensive or high-tech photo or video equipment hiding in my backpack. I’m too poor, lazy, and not serious enough for multiple lenses or 4 bajillion options when it comes to settings.
But because many of you have asked, here’s what I DO use to capture photos (and video) on the road:
Camera
Canon PowerShot SX210-IS
Last year, with a lot of upcoming travel in 2011, I decided it was time to update my little brown Canon point-and-shoot camera. The camera had served me well, taking fantastic photos as I studied and traveled in New Zealand. But it was time to upgrade. I briefly considered a DSLR, but in the end settled on what amounts to a really fancy point-and-shoot. I can’t fathom having a camera that I can’t slip in my pocket.
There are no extra lenses here, but this point-and-shoot still has some impressive specs and features:
- 14.1 megapixels
- 28mm Wide Angle lens (though I don’t use it often)
- 14x optical zoom
- Image Stabilization
- Face Detection
- 12 shooting modes for everything from landscapes to fireworks to action shots
- 11 scene modes, including Fish Eye and Miniature (Tilt-Shift)
- Aperture-priority, Shutter speed-priority, and Manual modes
- HD video capability (720 p)
I’ll admit that what drew me to this camera was the Manual mode. Most point and shoots don’t let you manually adjust things like shutter speed and aperture, but this one does. I don’t know a whole lot of technical things about photography, but I know that having the ability to adjust these settings can make all the difference in photos.
It’s also a sturdy camera, and has an interface that’s easy to use. I am definitely a fan of the Canon brand.
>>> Buy this camera!
Tripod(s)
Since I don’t have a big DSLR, I don’t see the point in carrying around bulky camera equipment. But, sometimes things like tripods are essential to get a good shot — especially when you’re using longer exposures (which I can now do with my fancy point-and-shoot!). The image stabilization feature on new cameras is great, but doesn’t always cut it.
When I was looking into tripod options, I settled on two that are super portable, and yet still super useful.
GorillaPod
Ah, GorillaPod. These mini tripods are great if you’re not sure what sorts of conditions you might find yourself shooting in. Bendy legs mean you can set your camera up on just about any surface, and the little GorillaPod I purchased (only about 6 inches tall) is small enough to fit in my purse.
I bought one that’s technically for flip-style video cameras, but it also works with my regular camera. They also sell tripods for heavier (DSLR) cameras, as well as for iPhones. Mine also has magnetic feet, though I have yet to find an appropriate situation for utilizing those…
XShot
The Xshot may very well be one of the coolest inventions to aid solo travelers in taking photos. It’s basically a camera extender (read: really long metal stick with a camera mount on the end) that allows you to actually get in your own travel photos without having to find someone to take a shot of you. The Xshot folds into itself small enough to be tucked into a bag (6.5 inches), but extends to an impressive 30.5 inches.
The Xshot is only made for lightweight, cameras, however. And, from past experience (traveling in New Zealand, in my case), I can tell you that you probably should pack this one in your checked luggage. I almost had it taken off of me 4 times in one 2-week trip — I’m guessing because of its potential use as a weapon… So just keep that in mind.
>>> Buy an XShot!
Underwater/Video Camera
I know this post is about photo equipment, but I really can’t talk about any of that without also mentioning my handheld video camera.
Kodak Playsport
I picked up this little gem before going on an Alaskan cruise with my family in the summer of 2010. It has basically lived in my purse ever since then. I LOVE this video camera, from its sturdy exterior to its video quality to the fact that you can use it underwater.
Here are some of its specs and features:
- HD video up to 1080 p
- Image Stabilization
- A durable exterior that can handle wear and tear
- 4x digital zoom
- Underwater capabilities up to 10 feet deep
- 5 megapixel still camera
At around $100-$150 USD, don’t expect the most amazing video camera ever. But do expect to get your money’s worth out of this product. The underwater feature and the 5 MP stills have come in handy more times than I would have expected over the past year. For example, not only have I used this camera snorkeling in Hawaii and playing on Slide Rock in Sedona, but it also saved the day during my Franz Josef Glacier trek in New Zealand. It was pouring during parts of my glacier hike, and my good camera therefore stayed tucked away under my clothing in a drybag. But I was able to use my Playsport to take both great photos and videos of glacier hiking in the rain.
And the best part? This, too, can fit into a pocket.
>>> Buy a Playsport!
So there you have it! The secret to the photos and videos you see on this site. Like I said, nothing fancy. (And, as far as editing goes, I don’t use anything fancy there, either — just iPhoto and iMovie.)
Sure, sometimes I think it would be nice to have a lot of expensive photo equipment at my disposal. But then I remind myself that I’m lazy, and I don’t like lugging heavy bags around. … I think I’ll stick with what I’ve got for now!
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Does any of my gear surprise you? What do YOU use to capture photo and video on the road?
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Disclosure: I did receive a free XShot to try out. That fact, however, in no way influenced my review of the product. As always, opinions are my own. Also, the links in this post are Amazon affiliate links, so if you buy anything after clicking through them, I may make a few cents.
Great list Amanda!
I’ve got a X-Shot and Playsport too… LOVE them to pieces. So much so I broke my X-Shot and need to get a replacement ^^;;; hehe.
Nicole recently posted..First Time in Hong Kong? 5 Must See Sites
I’ve been joking recently that Kodak should be paying me commission because of all the bloggers I’ve convinced to buy Playsports. Lol. It’s such a great gadget though! Well worth what I paid for it.
xshot is something most people who have owned one and travelled would not then travel without. Iclude me in that group!
Lassa recently posted..Stop your heartburn
It really is a great little gadget! Whoever invented it was very smart.
Wow. I never knew about the Xshot. Thanks for that great tip!
Gerard ~ GQ trippin recently posted..best mexican food finds in San Jose, CA!
You are very welcome! It’s very handy if you’re traveling alone! Works with my video camera, too, actually.
I have been looking for a new camera but don’t want to fork out the money for the DSLR. Reasonable prices on these. Love the idea of a Gorilla pod or Tripod as well. Got a lot of traveling coming up so this would very handy!
Jeremy Branham recently posted..Where in the world am I?
Yeah, the money involved in buying a DSLR has always made me balk, too. Like I said, I like being able to slip my camera into a pocket or my purse. As nice as it would be to have a DSLR, I just feel like I wouldn’t use it often enough to make it worthwhile.
They’re making in-between point-and-shoots now, though (I forget the technical name for them) which are still small-ish, but actually come with detachable lenses. But they’re not as expensive as full-blown DSLRs. Maybe you could look into those!
My gear includes a Canon 50D DSLR, a couple of lenses, my laptop to manipulate images, external harddrive for storage, etc…. Sometimes I would like to go back to a more simple camera, something smaller, but then i think of how much fun i have shooting fotos.
Daniël recently posted..Photo Roulette 28: Reflections
I’m sure that, once you do embrace DSLR photography, it’s very hard to go back!
I have a DSLR, but I’ve been looking to upgrade my point-and-shoot and this one looks perfect. I love that it has manual functions. I’m definitely looking to get an XShot soon too! Great post. I like how everything is portable.
Danielle recently posted..8 Things I Loved About Boston
The XShot is a great thing to have when you travel, and the best part is that it’s under $30! And, as far as point-and-shoots go, I’ve been really happy with this one. No, it doesn’t always do well in low-light or overexposed situations, but I’m not expecting magic from such a small camera. I do love all the options, though!
Very useful and realistic tips for fans of point-and-shoot cameras who feel burdened by big bulky DSLRs. I’ll check these out in more detail! Thanks!
Abhijit recently posted..La Boqueria Market: A colourful yet disgusting spectacle
Hopefully you find my suggestions useful!
Hey, love the Gorilla Pods! I have been using them for my iPhone and Camera as well, pretty gnarly that you can put them anywhere really! I also had some other cameras I did some research on for adventurists and a camera that I chose for travel, check it out and feel free to use em’ on your site if you like =)
http://justchuckinit.com/great-cameras-for-travelers-and-adventurists/
Ryan Brown recently posted..How to break it to family that you are traveling the world.
I love that you can use a GorlliaPod pretty much anywhere, too! Definitely a smart invention by someone.
And thanks for the link! I’ll be sure to check it out.
I just purchased GorillaPod for my Point & Shoot and another for Jeremy’s DSLR. We definitely are loving it! So lightweight and easy to carry, yet versatile! Love all your other recommendations. I’m going to look into the underwater video camera for sure!
Shirlene from Idelish recently posted..{USA} Surfing with Goofy Foot Surf School in Maui
Agree 100% on the GorillaPod! So small, but yet so useful!
And yes, if you’re in the market for a sturdy, underwater video camera, definitely check out the Playsport!
A well-handled point-and-shoot can take better photos than a DSLR in the hands of a newbie, as yours prove. Keep up the good work!
Thanks, Kelsy! And yes, I think knowledge and experience definitely play a big role!
I love my digital camera, however I got it really wet on my last overseas trip a few weeks ago (in Cambodia). Its amazing though it seemed to take it a few hours to recover/or dry out, overnight, and appears to be okay now. Friends tell me it could “die” on me when I least expect it? What do you think? I really like the idea of the XShot especially for travel, light and easy to pack. Thanks for some interesting ideas.
travelyn recently posted..Xian City|Bell Tower
I know technology can be really finicky. However, sometimes it can surprise you and survive through things you wouldn’t expect it to (such as your camera appearing to be fine after getting wet). If it dried out and is working normally now, perhaps you got lucky!
I’m glad you enjoyed this post. And if you decide to pick up an XShot to try out, you’ll have to let me know how you like it!