I had specific needs and wants that narrowed down my search considerably. I like to hike, camp, bicycle, and motorcycle, so size was going to be a major consideration. If I was going to get into photography, I wanted to be able to get the results I was looking for. Camera controls where going to be a factor, but also, ease of use for my wife. In my research I learned that good glass in most cases trumps the camera body itself. It seems that digital camera sensors have about reached their apex, so just about any large sensor, removable lens camera body out there will get the job done with good glass attached. Speed was my final consideration, specifically, focus speed. I am very much an amateur photographer. I do not set up shots, and I take pictures of just about everything I can, at least until I learn what makes a great photograph. Hunting for focus in my dimly lit living room while the baby makes a cute face that I was missing, was not an option.

All that considered, my options narrowed considerably. DSLRs where out. To big, to heavy, to bulky shaped. Point and shoots where out. You can’t change the glass, and although there are some really good ones out there, I wanted a little more in my camera. Sony has some good options in their ASPC sensor packing NEX line, but fuck Sony. That left me with Micro 4/3 and cameras from both Panasonic and Olympus. Both had just released their 3rd generation of M4/3 cameras, and both had addressed most if not all the technical issues that had plagued earlier iterations. I wanted small, but I didn’t want mini. Both companies offer smaller stripped down versions of their top end M4/3 cameras. Those did not interest me. Panasonic’s G3, and Olympus’ E-P3 did interest me. Sitting at the top of the heap of the M4/3 world, both cameras had excellent picture quality, speed and options. At first the G3 really appealed to me, it had a view finder, a tilt screen and a higher pixel count. It also had that bulky DSLR shape. The E-P3 was lacking a viewfinder, but I have never used one anyway, I wouldn’t miss it. The E-P3 was also lacking the tilt screen, but Oh what a screen it had. It was packing High rez OLED touch screen. Nor did it have that DSLR shape, it is simply beautiful, with a substantialness about it that lets you know there is power in your hand. It also comes equipped with the fastest auto focus on any current digital camera. I was sold.

It has been a pure joy to own. The touch screen comes in handy much more than I would have ever imagined. The OLED technology makes it viewable in the brightest direct sunlight. The UI is great, and the controls are exactly where they need to be. The lenses are small, lightweight, and can produce images on par with the very best of them. I carry it with me almost everywhere I go and couldn’t be happier with images that it consistently produces. Win.

Now I wouldn’t suggest backpacking with one, but if you are planning on doing some car-camping, then it’s ideal. Stack up some some rocks over a fire and you’re good. You can’t beat steak over a fire, and the morning eggs……..yum. I’m doing just that this coming weekend too, so think about me when your stuck in your kitchen.

[tags]cast iron, skillet[/tags]

Believe it or not, you can also hold one of these in your hand! So you can skip the whole “Im not putting that dorky thing on my head” excuse , and use it like a regular flashlight. While reserving the coal miner look for when nobody is looking. I completely understand the feeling too, I don’t even own one myself, but my roommate does, and I’m sure I use it as much or more than him. So this post is just as much a reminder to get my own, as it is a prod for you to get one.

[tags]LED, flashlight, headlamp[/tags]

I just got mine this last weekend, and could not wait to write about them. Your not gonna be blown away by the sound quality, but for the price and convenience your not gonna be picky either. We were on a beach in 20mph winds, and never had a problem hearing them in active mode. The sound is a little tinny, but I feel that could be solved with a little EQ’ing on the MP3 player side.

[tags]ipod, speakers[/tags]

Cameras, Lenses, and Laptops are heavy, and being able to throw them on your back as you trek thru the airport is a huge bonus. You also get to keep all your valuables with you (no way I’m going to check this bag) . The separate laptop bag is nice in itself too, I find I use it constantly, nothing like killing 2 birds with one stone. I also have to say how comfortable it is, with cross straps to help take the load off of your shoulders.

Looks like there is a newer version, and I don’t have a bad word to say about the old one. So, take your pick.

[tags]backpack, camera bag, lowepro[/tags]

Kit Up

[tags]hatchet, camping, axe[/tags]