Travel photography

Kent, I've been using a Canon SD-870IS Camera to supplement my DSLR and get short video clips, and the results have been great so far. That model has been discontinued, but you could have a look at newer models in that line. Here's a review: http://reviews.cnet.com/digital-cameras/canon-powershot-sd870-is/4505-6501_7-32471275.html Happy travels!

I have a Nikon S-8100. I think it's ideal. Good quality pictures, 10x optical zoom, HD quality video, long battery life - and no bigger/heavier than a deck of cards. The one negative, the sound on the video is far from ideal. If there are any competing noises, background noise, talking, wind, etc., it's noticable on the video - not sure if there's a way to correct that. If you can isolate the sound you're trying to get, it's fine.

I just bought a Sony Cybershot DSC-HX9V with 16x optical zoom and image stabilization. Check out the review at CNET.com. It's an editor's pick and I absolutely love it. The video that it takes is absolutely amazing and it's fantastic in low light. It's about the size of a pack of cigarettes. About $330. The camera I used on my last two trips (photos here for 2011 and here for 2008) was a Canon PowerShot SD1000 and it gave me decent photos, but nowhere near as great as I'm getting with this new Sony Cybershot. I really wish I had upgraded before our last trip, and now can't wait until we go back next year.

I have used a Canon PowerShot S90 for the past 2 years. It takes excellent still photos (as good as my old Nikon digital SLR) and very nice movies. Moreover, it is very small, but is easy to operate in terms of control settings. In fact, I now leave my SLR at home because in it's protective travelling case, it is almost the size of a canteloupe.

It really depends on your budget, how camera savvy you are and how light you want to travel. If you don't mind carrying a couple of lenses, I'd recommend the Sony NEX-5N and then carry a 50 1.8f prime lens (for portraits and specific item shots) and the 18-200 zoom telephoto lens (for landscape and tight shots from far away). Both the still and video quality from this camera is amazing given the price point. I plan on using this camera on my next trip but will use an adapter to fit my Zeiss and Nikkor lenses.

Thanks for the suggestions. It is helpful to have comments on actual experience with some of the cameras. I'll check them out.

My vote is for the Canon G11 or G12. I bought the G11 2 years ago for my hiking trip to France. it took amazing photos. Made me look better than I am. I even enlarged prints and framed them..I've gotten compliments on my photos. There are several setting that help in sun light, twilight, dim light (inside churches) Foliage, beach, etc. Easy to use with a bit of practice. Great zoom. the G11 is my go to camera when I'm out and about. Fits in my hand and easily in my cross body bag. i've taken movies with it as well.... Great reviews on Amazon, etc. This is one worthy of your consideration.

Everybody has an opinion on cameras. I usually buy electronics when heavily discounted around Christmas. I rely on Kim Komando, syndicated digital goddess, for matters electronic. She has a staff that actually follows the market on cameras and camcorders. You can read about them on: http://www.komando.com/buyguide/

Kent, One other suggestion..... If you want to get really GOOD technical information regarding a Camera you're considering, you might check This Website. They don't review all Cameras, but the reports are extensive on those they do review. Cheers!

Kent...there are lots of great cameras out there but just a quick word of advice... be sure you are completely familiar with your camera and all it can do before you go so that the camera becomes just a tool for you to record the images and videos you want. If there are settings you might forget just write yourself a little 'cheat sheet' to refresh your memory while you are away. Also remember when choosing a camera... although you want a decent camera... it is the photographer that matters the most, not the camera. Just make it comfortable so you will use it.