howierart said:
Has anyone got any digital camera recommendations for me. I have been using a Canon ixus 60 for the past few months and it is good to carry but I am finding the quality of the pictures it takes are limited due to its size. I would like to buy something a bit bigger but might find it hard to carry on my bike - Though I do ahve a small shoulder bag I have carried without discomfort for 100 miles or so. Does anyone carry anything as big as an SLR camera on rides, and what do people recommend in the £200 $300 bracket? Thanks.
From a photo enthusiast who has always used SLR (film), one day I decided to go for compactness, now for travel and longer rides I use an IXY 60 or Ixus 55 at 5.0megapixels and taking photos at full resolution and size. Use the camera to its fullest potentional I find the shots exeptional for its size and compactness.
I can take closeups of small insects like ants bugs, plant details, people to scenic shots etc.. of high quality, I find it compensates for light very well. I could easily print my shots at an 10x8 or A4 Size and be satisfied with the quality. Only downside 1-2/10 shots not so sharp as it's hard to focus via and LCD screen or the small viewfinder.
However having said that I have considered getting a Digital SLR as I prefer to use a real view finder and be able to have more control of my shots and higher quality photos, additional lenses etc. I geuss you need to decide whether race / training ride vs a photograph trip. If it is the latter I think it is worthwhile carrying an SLR in a backpack plus tripod, additional lenses if you are more serious about your photos. There are more lightweight options these days. Closest to your price range and light/compact I think Canon Eos 350D now replaced by the 400D, Nikon has an equivelant either the 70 or 100 but they are bulkier. I would suggest a backpack to carry the camera gear only. Keep your water in Bidon in the cage. A filled hydration pack with camera gear may make you more top heavy make you more vulnerable on corners at speed as your centre of balance will change.
*Everyday rides, snapshots these days I just use the 2megpix camera on my phone.
**Dang, I would love a EOS 5D even settle for a 30D
***just a note about Digi compact vs SLR quality of photo varies depending who's holding and using the weapon. Just like racing a $1000 alloy bike vs $5000 composite bike- depends on the rider.
