michaelk@azure.UUCP (Mike Kersenbrock) (08/28/85)
> In article <416@uvaee.UUCP> cffres@uvaee.UUCP (Chuck Ferrara) writes: > >I am considering a purchase of a compact 35mm. camera (not an SLR) > >which I can use skiing or backpacking, when I don't want to lug > >around all my equipment. I am a serious photographer, so I am looking > >for something that takes high quality photos, yet fits in my pocket. > >Another thing I consider important is to have some kind of filter > >adapter, because I could never part with my polarizer. I know there > >are many manufacturers of these little cameras and I would appreciate > >it if some of you could share your experiences. Thanks in advance. > Um, I just went through this last year except that I did not have the polarizer requirement. Although a polarizer is a handy device (I use one with my "real" camera), it does present a problem. The problem is what you mean by "can use skiing...". When I looked for a skiing camera, my *minimal* requirements were: 1.) To be absolutely smallest possible because: a.) I want to carry this thing arround without bothering my skiing. I ski lousy enough. b.) I don't want to die if I fall on top of the camera while going at a good speed (for me) downhill skiing. The basic requirement here is that it doesn't have any pointed features, and preferably be flat and thin. c.) I don't want the camera to die either. 2.) The camera should be automatic everything. This may make a serious photographer shake his/her head, but....: a.) I ski with gloves on, carrying poles, and the weather is COLD. I have enough problems with just doing a point and shoot. Note that I am skier #1, and photographer #2 (this is my intention, and does not necessarily indicate relative skill levels). b.) Ever take a photo, trying to focus while wearing ski-goggles (because of cold wind, or whatever)? 3.) The camera should be able to compensate for snow (like having good range of manual ASA ratings & setting a lower film speed than the actual film, to compensate for the snow). A DX coding camera might be a negative feature for this purpose. 4.) The camera and have a decent lens and "technical" competence (like being 35mm to start with....). 5.) The camera should have a lens-cover as not to have a problem when number 1b (above) happens (often). [Drum roll maestro...] The camera I chose was the Canon MC (not the new MC-10). It meets everything above quite well. I take it skiing without the flash. The flash is detachable -- this is one way size is reduced. This is my first Canon camera, and I am very happy with it. It is also now my general sport-camera when I don't want to lug my SLR around. It runs off of two AAA alkaline cells that lasts a very long time. The flash (if ever used) uses it's own cells, and they don't last quite so long (as is usual for the flashes I have owned). Mike Kersenbrock Tektronix Software Development Products Aloha, Oregon