Compact camera with GPS

petedg

petedg

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I'm thinking of buying a waterproof GPS enabled compact camera for sailing and general use. I'd also like to be able to take some videos when we're underway. Anyone got any comments or recommendations of suitable models. At the moment I'm looking at the Nikon AW100 which seems to have all the functions I'm looking for. Other suggestions welcome.
 
I went through a similar process last year and found that the concensus seems to be that waterproof zoom cameras are generally not very good at being cameras, and not terribly good at being waterproof.
I bought a good cheap zoom camera instead.
I'm tempted to add a waterproof snapshot camera to my toys though.
OTOH, I'm due a new phone and might look for a waterproof phone with camera.
How much is the AW100?

In the dinghy world, a lot of people are taking video with 'gopro' cameras, but taking the video seems to be a lot more popular than watching the video, although some of it has some value for coaching.
 
Panasonic FT3. I have one. The video is great. The picture quality is good for a compact. It's shockproof and waterproof. The zoom range will always be limited because the lens on waterproof cameras is behind the waterproof window. However on a boat a long range zoom is not so important. A wide angle (equivalent to 28mm) is.

Video


After a dunking there was a bit of condensation on the inside of the lens window. This is not leaking. It is the effect of warm air inside the camera coming into contact with the suddenly-cooled glass. (The actual inversion wasn't filmed as the camera auto-shuts off after about 11 minutes filming in HD)




The window is smaller due to me converting it to the wrong standard. Click through to Youtube (logo bottom right) and click on the little gearwheel to choose 420)





Stills (there is no doubt they are not quite as good as a top level compact that is not a Tough range. However once you have dropped your top-end compact it is usually not much good - I have killed 3 compacts)

Conistonboatingcentre.jpg




Backwheelpad02.jpg




BownessEvening.jpg
 
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I don't have my GPS switched on. So I can't express an opinion. Otherwise a decent battery life. I probably have to recharge more than with a previous Ixus, but I do more video.
 
johnalison said:
I seem to remember reading a revue that criticised GPS cameras for poor battery life.
Click to expand...

I think the Olympus Tough 810 was a stinker for this and the GPS was said to be useless on this account. It was also said to be difficult/impossible to turn the GPS off.

I have the non GPS 8010 and whilst it is a tough cookie, there are enough niggles to send a dedicated snapper nuts.
I would be quite happy with it, except the very reason I bought it turns out to be another disaster area:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmJYJhwyl4U

Perhaps Olympus is better avoided.
 
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