Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Micro four-thirds
Micro four-thirds cameras (sometimes called mirrorless cameras) are great because they're
about the same size as a point-and-shoot but they produce image quality very similar to
DSLRs. They also give the possibility to add different lenses if you're looking for even more
control of your shots. Users moving up from a traditional point-and-shoot will also like the
minimal shutter lag.
One big drawback to this style of camera is the price. At the low end, they run about $700
and the price can easily double or triple, but an entry-level DSLR is closer to $350. However,
as the technology continues to improve, the prices will continue to become more reasonable
and I predict that this style of camera will be the perfect high-quality travel camera.
Smartphone cameras
Smartphone cameras are getting so good that they're killing base level point-and-shoot cam-
eras. Their image quality will never be as good as mid- and high-end point-and-shoot cameras
but the quality is still impressive. Additionally, they're impossible to beat when it comes to
convenience and snapping photos on the go. Plus, it's super easy to share photos online the
moment you take them. Modern smartphones take decent low-light images, but don't expect
anything too amazing.
Photography buffs will want to stick to an actual camera but, at the rate the smartphone
cameras are improving, I can see how many travelers could ditch their traditional camera al-
together—especially if all your photos are going to only be viewed online. And, if nothing else,
smartphone cameras have proven themselves to be excellent supplementary cameras.
IMPORTANT DIGITAL CAMERA ACCESSORIES
Memory cards.
Don't forget to bring enough memory cards. You absolutely don't want to lim-
it the amount of photographs you take because of limited memory card space. Plus, they're
very cheap these days so there is no excuse not to bring a few. On my first trip, I didn't bring
enough memory cards, so I had to constantly look for Internet cafés to upload my photos to
an online storage account. I wasted a lot of time and money doing that.
External hard drive or online backup.
It's smart to always backup your photos. I've seen
too many people lose all their photos because of corrupt or lost memory cards. A portable
hard drive is the simplest option, but with online storage you don't need to worry about cor-
rupt files or losing your hard drive. However, uploading large amounts of data can take a long
time—especially if you don't have access to fast/reliable Internet.
Extra batteries.
Extra batteries are essential for long days of sightseeing because you don't
have to worry about running out of power. You can buy cheap third-party batteries online
that work nearly as well as batteries from the manufacturer but for a fraction of the price.
