NOOB: Outdoor Hiking Camera...

[squatpuke]

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Howdy all....1st post...thanks for your replies and this forum...Hope you can help me out.

I've been VERY happy with my last two Canon's...

Powershot S30 (still have, but very limited by today's standards)

Powershot A710IS (LOST....)

But I'M NOT BRAND LOYAL

My main use is general familly, pickup quick and shoot....however, I take MANY pictures outdoors while hiking.

Since our last powershot is now gone...we're looking to replace....

I'd be willing to spend up to 300 dollars to replace...

My musts would be 2 AA batteries, drag and drop from Windows, and compact.

Would like Image Stabalizing, shockproof and underwater...but not musts....really would like it tough as family is hard on them.

REALLY! appreciate your response....or direction on how to google reviews.

lr

[hkwiles]

I suggest you take a serious look at the Pentax K7 ...its the one I am getting in next few weeks .
Howard

[mtclimber]

In your price range, the best choice would be the Panasonic ZS1 camera. However, it does not use AA batteries. It does however have a great wide angle lens for those hiking landscapes, and it use SD cards.

Sarah Joyce

[denncald]

Consider the Canon D10 (just over your upper limit $), since it is waterproof, even does underwater. Also consider the Canon SD960 IS with a wide (28 mme) lens. The SD960 also has an optional underwater case, but it's pricey if you can't find a significant discount. And, teach your family to take care of the precision instruments, or resign yourself to constant replacements. I'd suggest a small protective case when not in use.

None of the above use AA batteries, so you are limited in your choices in today's market. If you MUST have AAs, then consider the few remaining A series of Canon like the A2000 IS or A1100 IS.

Dennis

[squatpuke]

Thanks for the replies....I'll check out each....

[lesmore49]

Originally Posted by squatpuke

.
.
Howdy all....1st post...thanks for your replies and this forum...Hope you can help me out.

I've been VERY happy with my last two Canon's...

Powershot S30 (still have, but very limited by today's standards)

Powershot A710IS (LOST....)

But I'M NOT BRAND LOYAL

My main use is general familly, pickup quick and shoot....however, I take MANY pictures outdoors while hiking.

Since our last powershot is now gone...we're looking to replace....

I'd be willing to spend up to 300 dollars to replace...

My musts would be 2 AA batteries, drag and drop from Windows, and compact.

Would like Image Stabalizing, shockproof and underwater...but not musts....really would like it tough as family is hard on them.

REALLY! appreciate your response....or direction on how to google reviews.

lr

This small Pentax sounds like it may be of interest to you...check out the video, talks about all of it's attributes .

http://www.google.ca/url?sa=t&source...W8EBM6cOdO6IwA