Cameras for Backpacking

[CJD]

I have been looking for a small lightweight camera with about 15X optical zoom, GPS, movies for You Tube and makes high quality individual digital images, ideally in RAW format.

I would also like to be able to do HDR, maybe, flash fill for those dark ambient light hiker huts, and be able to successfully photograph other hikers and campers, and, especially landscapes including panoramas.

I also like high-key portraits, black and white photography, and Fujifilm print film colors of green in nature.

Kidding myself? Check it out: Fujifilm F550EXR digital camera.

I selected the EXR setting in afternoon long light, interior of the house (no artificial light) automatically taking "burst" photos, then, automatically combining the photos for one sharp photo and realistic color (not the blobs of color of high ISO settings).

I had to stop: I was incredulous. I can not believe how great this camera is for backpacking. I have GPS to load up images online. The GPS function will also guide me back to the location I had for a photo I made earlier.

There's more. Check it out.

If someone else has a camera they really like for backpacking, please share information here.

[zelph]

I only use inexpensive stuff that has proven capabilities with close-up features. Your link camera looks great, you did good

The low-light feature is something I need.

[CJD]

I didn't pay retail.
I got it used, at eBay.

[zelph]

seems like folks are relying on the cameras in phones. everyone nowadays has a cell phone right? Even me!!!!!! got a tracphone 2 mo. ago now that I can hear better due to modern science.

[ConnieD]

The Samsung smart phone is spectacular for photography. An acquaintance has one. His photos are excellent.

iPhone has aftermarket lenses and steadycam devices shown at YouTube and found by Google. I have a 4S. I think a minimum of a 5S is required to use the aftermarket devices.

[zelph]

I bought an apple Iphone 3gt? just to take videos and photos. Use it for wifi also. Paid $90.00 for it a few years ago, new in the box with 3 chargers for international use. It doesn't have a SIM card but can be used for 911.

How has the Fujifilm F550EXR digital camera been treating you?

[ConnieD]

It is a great little camera. It isn't ideal for batteries, having a separate charger to have a spare battery ready. It is fine for 4-5 days at a time hiking. I am looking at portable battery rechargers to plug it in to recharge a battery on the trail, if I get real enthusiastic about photos. I like being able to select HDR steps, and offsets for the imitation Fujifilm that is so exceptional for distinguishing the many colors of green. I got it "open box" at eBay.

I purchased an iPhone 4S at eBay. I think it will need a battery soon.

I think an iPhone 5S is necessary for all the addon lenses available, however, the mechanical steadycam devices apparently will work with every iPhone,

[zelph]

Taking good photos can get complicated For me that is

I went out to get photos of a plant growing along side a road in a woodland setting and was able to get only one photo because my batteries went dead. the camera is terrible on power usage