Waterproof camera/video

[Tim Eubanks]

Looking for one that won't break the bank. ? Penatax W80/90 seem to be unavailable. Kodak? Olympus?

[BMuu]

Im sure you have seen the Gopro. It is very durable, it does have some down sides though such as no LCD to view pics and it's not practical for some uses.

It does get good video though! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fx9VqY_4fEA" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; This is my video on twin devil falls off Richland.

[paddledog]

Today and today only......Sunday 12/11
I watch a site called "Daily Steals". Specials run for a day only or until they run out.
http://www.dailysteals.com/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; Today is a waterproof you might want to take a look at.

I know nothing of the camera but,
Here are some reviews.
http://www.pocket-lint.com/news/41260/p ... r-hands-on" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[Chester]

Tim, on my 3rd Pentax (W30) with no problems. Have not upgraded to the newer model to use HD, because I'd also have to upgrade my PC, and change my much use to editing software, to edit and crunch out DVD's. Not sure why newer Pentax's are hard to find, but if so maybe check on eBay.

[Fish]

I've got a W20 that I just replaced with a little Sony cam. Just one trip with the Sony, but so far so good. I've had great luck with the Pentax cams, have owned three of them over the last 8 years, and replaced them only to get more megapix and zoom. Thought about selling the W20, but I'm thinking I may just keep it for a backup/loaner - it still shoot great pics and video, though about 1/2 the megapix and 2/3 the zoom on of the Sony, and not HD vid.

- Fish

[flow]

After much research, I'm getting a Nikon Coolpix AW100 this week! $349 at Best Buy.

[JTarver]

Tim, I use a Kodak Zx3. It records in 1080P HD as well as regular, and takes exceptionally good pics. I highly recommend it, and it isn't too expensive.
Joe

[Tim Eubanks]

Joe: Kodak is attractive in price. I read that the battery is integral with the camera and doesn't hold charge very long. When battery craps out, you have to send the camera backto Kodak.??
How does it do on cloudy/rainy days?

[JTarver]

I haven't had mine mess up yet, and the charge holds really well considering how often I acutally put it on the charger. I will have to check on the battery situation with it tonight when I get home. It's super easy to upload pics/video to your computer too.
Like I said, when I find out about the battery, I will let you know.

Joe

[SteveGabbard]

I just picked up a Kodak ZX5 new on Amazon for $100. Apparently it is the newer version of Joe's camera. The ZX3 does have a removable battery but the ZX5 does not.

I have only messed with it a bit but here are some first impressions:
- It is super simple to use. The buttons are intuitive and there are not alot of settings.
-It turns on quickly and you can start recording very quickly. No long boot time.
- I have been very impressed with the picture and video quality, even in low light conditions.
- It exports movies in MP4 format
- It is small and would fit in a lifejacket pocket well.
-It came with basic movie editing software

Cons:
- The nonremovable battery
- The doors to the sd card and plug connection look like they could pop open accidentally. Probably want to tape them shut on the river
- The waterproof seals look questionable but may be fine.

There's my 2 cents

[Tim Eubanks]

Thanks all for feedback.
For what its worth:
Found several reconditioned cameras for sale here and there. Called Olympus and talked to a tech. They come with a 90day warranty and a 2year can be had for $50 that include a cleaning, maybe gasket replacement.
So.....if the reconditioned camera and extended warranty are still less than new (one year warranty).....that may be an option.
I don't need the biggest baddest. just reliable.