Camera in Ireland

On our most recent trip we took two digital point and shoot cameras and a video camera. We came home with approximately 2 minutes of video. It didn't turn out to be worth hauling it around. A good point and shoot with video capability is probably all you need, in my opinion.

Virtually all cameras have video capability these days - even cell phone cameras. If you want good video, get one that takes at least 24fps.

Todd, given the fact that you "never know if I will make it back to Ireland", some research on Cameras would be a good idea. If you don't plan on returning there, getting good photos on this trip will be important! There are three "basic" types of Cameras: Point & Shoot, Superzoom or DSLR. Each has advantages and disadvantages. You'll have to decide which type best fits your travel style and preferences. If you're thinking of a DSLR, you might want to check * www.dpreview.com/learn/?/Guides/dslr_buying_guide_01.htm * (cut & paste the link inside the asterisks). Also, check out the Buyer's Guide at * www.dcresource.com/ * (the link is in the top bar). I always travel with both a DSLR and a compact P&S (both Canon). Although the DSLR is big and heavy, I feel it's essential as it allows me to get photos that aren't possible with other types of Cameras (I use mostly a medium range zoom and wide angle Lenses when travelling). Both Cameras are capable of video (the DSLR is capable of HD 1080 video), however I usually just use the P&S for video. If you're considering a DSLR, there IS somewhat of a "learning curve" so allow enough time before departure to become familiar with the Camera. If you're considering one of the Superzoom models, Panasonic has just introduced the DMC-FZ40 and FZ100. These are new so I haven't seen any reviews yet. Canon also has some excellent models including the relatively new G11. For reviews have a look at * www.dpreview.com * or * www.steves-digicams.com *. You may also want to have a look in Camera stores in your area, as knowledgeable sales staff will be able to help you sort out which type would be best. Whichever Camera you buy, be sure to budget for a spare Battery, several Memory Cards (size will depend on which Camera you buy) and a robust case. Good luck!

It sounds from your post like you aren't much into photography, but want to take pictures on this trip. if that is the case, I'd recommend a point and shoot digital camera that will fit in your pocket, or easily in your day bag. you don't need a big DSLR with extra lens to cart around! Canon makes some of the best cameras out there...I recently purchased the G11. It's about $440 now on amazon.com But, check around, visit your local camera store and get some advise. Sometimes they offer classes when you purchase from them, so you can learn to use your camera before you leave for holiday Make sure you get at least 2 memory cards (the biggest you can find). All cameras now take video, so you don't need a 2nd video camera for that. you have to really, really think about taking a video, pictures are so much easier! You should also have a 2nd battery as back up - unless it uses AA batteries - then take a good supply with you.

The G-11 comes highly recommended by professionals who use it as a backup to their SLRs..........I opted for a smaller Nikon S-8000, not the smallest of the digitals but getting there. It has a 10x digital zoom, HD video, 3" screen, great low-light and vibration reduction capability. It was on sale the other day at Costco for $254 including a 4gb storage card. Buy more storage so you never have to worry about whether to take a picture, snap away and delete the photo later if you don't like it.

Todd, "Lots of dramatic, sweeping landscapes so the wider the lens the better." To add to Tyson's comments, that's one reason I ALWAYS carry my 10-22 wide angle Lens. It's extremely useful not only for the "sweeping landscapes" but also in cities or inside large building where it's not always possible to move back far enough to capture a wide angle view. Good luck with your purchase!

Lots of dramatic, sweeping landscapes so the wider the lens the better. It's hard to find a P&S with wider than a 24mm so Ireland is the place to bring a DSLR with a Super Wide Angle lens.

Lots of sweeping landscapes can be taken with some point and shoot cameras. Actually , with some work and Photo Shop, any camera can take panoramas. Sony has a line of cameras that take sweeping (literally) panorams and stitches the shots together in the camera. Canon (and possibly others) have a panorama setting where you take a set of photos with a setting that assists you to line up the shots and the software that comes with the camera stitches the shots together seamlessly.

IAIN, Stitching is certainly one option and something that's available on my Cameras, but I tend to prefer to get a good wide angle view in one shot, so that I don't have to spend time with Photoshop (or whatever) when I get home. I'm not completely up to speed on Photoshop yet, so the "one shot method" works better for me at the moment. Cheers!

Ken, I understand what you are saying, but the OP used the word "inexpensive" and I gather from your posts that your equipment does not fit that! We are almost neighbours - we must meet some time!

Todd, if you are inexperienced in photography, then look for a small digital that does everything automatically or offers the chance for you to set some parameters. The Canon S-90/S-95 get many good reviews from experienced photographers, to name one possibility. Size and weight are important for travel, even for experienced folks. Lugging cameras around is not fun, especially if they cost a bundle and you aren't sure how to use them. You don't want a sore shoulder. Wide angle lenses do allow you to "get more in he picture," but, by their nature, everything will seem smaller and pretty far away. The real advantage of wide angles is that they allow you to get very close to your subject while still taking in most of it. That is, wide angles have a very large field of view. i.e., looking from left to right, they see more than other lenses.

Thank You all, fantastic input. leaving tomorrow. Taking all information to Best Buy. Todd

Todd, be sure to let us know which Camera you decided to buy. I'm sure everyone that posted replies would be interested. Happy travels!

Todd - you've probably already left but here's my suggestion: I shoot with a dSLR Canon Rebel T1i, it takes amazing pictures, but is difficult to use if you've never used one before. My boyfriend doesn't like to mess with the difficult dSLR, and he has a superzoom Kodak Z981 (equiv 26-676 mm). It's not very good for wide angle shots, you would need at least 18 mm for that... but it has a nice feature for panoramas. Good luck!