View Full Version : Camera protection?
Hey all,
What do you guys do to protect your digital cameras on the trail? In the past I've kept it in the case, but I was wondering if there's a lighter way to protect it. Thanks!
Ziplock bag, either single or double depending on situation.
whiterockjock
04-20-2009, 15:22
http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/bubble_pakit_4x6.html
Quart Zip-lock bag when raining or wet, otherwise just keep it in my pocket for easy access. Use the same bag for my wallet.
Ooh a bubble envelope, that's genius. Thanks!
I lost the leather pouch for my compass so I had one made. I am going to do the same for my camera. Sized to fit snug with no extra padding or pouches or crap like that. Shoe repair guys are good at making pouches, or you can DIY.
The older camera I carried was kept in a ziplock inside of a zippered pocket on my shoulder strap. The new one is waterproof to 10 feet and I just don't worry about it.
silversleep
04-20-2009, 18:03
:bananahttp://hacknmod.com/hack/diy-waterproof-electronics-gadgets/:banana (http://hacknmod.com/hack/diy-waterproof-electronics-gadgets/)
Footslogger
04-20-2009, 18:13
Hey all,
What do you guys do to protect your digital cameras on the trail? In the past I've kept it in the case, but I was wondering if there's a lighter way to protect it. Thanks!
============================
I carried mine in a freezer strength ziplock bag in the front pouch of my fanny pack. We had a LOT of rain and my little digital made it all the way to Katahdin ...and it still ticking, I might add. I've upgraded it since to one with better resolution though.
'Slogger
bigcranky
04-20-2009, 20:04
http://blog.wired.com/gadgets/2007/03/the_amazing_cam.html
http://www.instructables.com/id/Dual-Waterproof-Consumer-Electronics---the-condom-/
Another vote for a ziplock...
Kerosene
04-20-2009, 22:51
I used the BubblePakIt for my BlackBerry this past trip (my new job forced me to bring it) and it worked great.
toddhiker
04-20-2009, 23:00
Case for an old PDA, inside a Hipbelt pocket.
fiddlehead
04-20-2009, 23:55
we don't have ziplocks here in thailand. but it can get very very wet (especially in the jungle during monsoon season)
I simply use a plastic bag from the grocery store. It's a little big but i just fold it over a few times.
Cameras seem to work when damp a little better now than compared to the old days.
freefall
04-21-2009, 00:55
Ziplock bag, either single or double depending on situation.
That's what I use and have never had any problems.I tried a bubble wrap pouch one time but it seemed to grab at the camera a little more and was a little difficult to get out quickly. So I went back to just a ziploc.
Just remember that if it gets some moisture on it, wipe it off before putting it back in the bag. Carrying it somewhere that will allow it to heat up (a pocket) will cause the liquid to become vapor and can get inside the camera and could cause problems.
I mostly meant protect it from dropping. I think I'm going to pick up the case that goes with my deuter pack, it only weighs 2 oz and velcroes on to the strap for easy access. Plus it's only $9.
I think for a light digital camera a tight leather pouch is enough protection for dropping and normal banging around in the pack with other gear. I use a ziploc also for now, but intend to get a leather pouch made for my digital camera, not just for backpacking but for everyday. The commercially available camera bags are too padded and have too many pockets and are too one size fits all.
I agree with the pockets thing, but the camera was a graduation present which I can certainly not afford to replace. I would rather have too much padding and carry an extra ounce than too little and have the LCD break.
I've had good luck with a case from http://www.thepouch.com/ (clipped to the front of my pack shoulder strap), with my electronic item in a ziplock inside of that (neoprene case) when it's sufficiently wet out.
Bubblewrap inside a ziplock is a fine solution too, though slightly less convenient. I carried a camera for a while in a waist belt without a ziplock, but got too much grit into it that way, whereas putting it a ziplock made for more fumbling than I liked before being able to take a picture.
Wise Old Owl
04-21-2009, 21:54
Ziplock bag, either single or double depending on situation.
Wrong Answer.
Ziplock bag, either single or double depending on situation.
Ditto. Never a problem.
I like the Aloksak (small size) for my stuff. Camera or cell.
Rain Man
09-22-2009, 23:36
I got a couple of kinds of camera pouches from REI, similar to this one at the link, which attach to my shoulder strap. If it's wet weather, I also use a ziplock bag. I wish I could yank the camera out quicker, and put it away quicker, but that's a sacrifice for the weather protection and cushioning.
Lowepro Ridge 30 Camera Pouch (http://www.rei.com/product/736931)
Rain:sunMan
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Swiss Cheese
11-22-2009, 12:43
The camera case quality should go up with the quality of the camera. So if you really care about keeping the camera safe, and you want to take a lot of pictures, this may not be a place to try to shave ounces.
I used a small pelican hard case (20ish dollars) to hold my G7 "cargo pocket" camera on my 09 thru. super-glue a small moisture absorber on the inside of the case. works like a charm during damp days (or months) to keep all moisture out of your device. This was the ONLY non-ultralite item in my backpack and it was well worth it.
From an ultralite point of view, cameras aren't. So if you are willing to carry it, you have to be willing to get as much use out of it as possible. The type of case and location on the backpack can play a HUGE role in how many pictures you end up taking (especially when you are on the move). This particular case has a single plastic latch handle for super quick access, especially when in a mesh side pocket. I tied the small string loop on the case to a spot where the mesh narrows and is sewn into the regular fabric. I could have my camera out in 2-3 seconds with a backpack on. pull out from side, unlatch, take out camera, let case dangle from string while using it. easy camera access, easy storage, and you can still toss your backpack around without worrying about damaging the camera or getting it wet.
Wise Old Owl
11-22-2009, 13:05
:bananahttp://hacknmod.com/hack/diy-waterproof-electronics-gadgets/:banana (http://hacknmod.com/hack/diy-waterproof-electronics-gadgets/)
Your video was removed so the recommended thread doesn't work.
Wise Old Owl
11-22-2009, 13:21
Honest this question starts as a new thread over and over, I don't have a problem with that but the dis information that others post - well it is the INTERNET.
Glad bags leak (period)
Pelican cases are expensive & leak & (suck) I have tried several
In warm dry conditions a camera is best served in a pocket where you won't sweat or a padded hip protector bag with spare batteries.
Cameras produce poor pictures when they are cold, or in moisture or dew. Grab a solid Glad-ware box the size of your camera. Store in the middle of your pack in bad conditions. They don't leak or suck, provide some crush proof protection, they don't cost a fortune, and weight nothing.
http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:5jArZ24PMXqTIM:http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51VC41V9R8L._SL500_AA280_.jpg (http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51VC41V9R8L._SL500_AA280_.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.amazon.com/GladWare-Deep-Dish-Containers-containers/dp/B0009P67Y4&usg=__s_0c97Nqjn4T-oP4FJ3ld6195Sw=&h=280&w=280&sz=14&hl=en&start=11&tbnid=5jArZ24PMXqTIM:&tbnh=114&tbnw=114&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dglad%2Bware%26gbv%3D2%26hl%3Den%26saf e%3Doff)
This post is from two trashed cameras from experience. I have tested the above products to make sure that I don't mess up again.
Hey all,
What do you guys do to protect your digital cameras on the trail? In the past I've kept it in the case, but I was wondering if there's a lighter way to protect it. Thanks!
I use a cousie that is used to keep beer cans cold. The camera fits well and it is cushened from being damaged. It is lite weight and allows me to fit it in my pocket or on my belt.
Happy trails
Pelican cases.
The most likely reason for "leaking" is dirt on the O ring breaking the seal. A common problem with "waterproof" cases.
They are built to be waterproof to IP67 standard, 1 m submersion (3') for 30 minutes
Franco
(I used to sell them...)
ShelterLeopard
11-22-2009, 20:58
Hey all,
What do you guys do to protect your digital cameras on the trail? In the past I've kept it in the case, but I was wondering if there's a lighter way to protect it. Thanks!
ZIPLOC!!! I use ziplocs, and they're fine.
Wise Old Owl
11-22-2009, 22:41
Pelican cases.
The most likely reason for "leaking" is dirt on the O ring breaking the seal. A common problem with "waterproof" cases.
They are built to be waterproof to IP67 standard, 1 m submersion (3') for 30 minutes
Franco
(I used to sell them...)
Sorry Franco - you sold them - you could not have used them. Freshly made and bought right off the shelf at REI I walked in with a bucket of water and put tissue paper inside each one and dunked. Not one past my in store test. The assistant manager was Pis*** & so was I, I really felt they owed me a digital camera. He had to send them back.
Do you honestly believe everything that is printed on the outside of the box?
Wise Old Owl
My limited experience with Pelican only goes back about 25 years , having sold them regularly in various shops I worked for. (21 years in the same shop)
We supplied the Australian Army, the Police force, film crews as well as many pro photographers. However , granted I neither have your wide experience nor your wisdom.
Franco
Wise Old Owl
11-22-2009, 23:57
Wise Old Owl
My limited experience with Pelican only goes back about 25 years , having sold them regularly in various shops I worked for. (21 years in the same shop)
We supplied the Australian Army, the Police force, film crews as well as many pro photographers. However , granted I neither have your wide experience nor your wisdom.
Franco
Franco - Back in the day I am sure it was a good product - But If I walk into a store after loosing a camera and all of the Pelican boxes can't pass a dunk test why on earth would you take that personally, you didn't invent it or make it,-you sold it. I sold many a Sony TV for Circuit City and then they moved manufacture from Japan to Mexico and they quickly crapped out right on the sales floor. I don't care. I sold JVC and Hitachi to make up for it.
I am pointing out from experience a 20 cent Glad hard box can out preform the current $30 Pelican case in one foot of water, based on my test in the store last year. Probably because they are coming from China. I never intended to throw people under the bus but this is a duplicate thread from last year and you know maybe Pelican fixed the problem by now. All I know is the next time I need a hard waterproof case it will not be Pelican but some competitor that can make a product that works.
Oh and FYI WOO was a name given to me on the trail for my interest in raptors, eagles, hawks and stuff - it does not mean know it all. If I have made a mistake - I will be the first to admit it.
First I did not take that (your bagging the Pelican) personally. I simply stated that my experience does not match yours.
"Back in the day ..."
I left the shop two years ago and in photographic terms that is a long time but I was still writing articles for trade mags a year later so maybe I am not as out of touch as you think.
You can chose any name you like , my peeve was with the "Do you honestly believe everything that is printed on the outside of the box?'
a line that translates for me as " Are you that naive/stupid ? "
Considering that I worked in the industry for about 30 yeras and I am a PMA Silver Service Member (PMA: Photographic Marketing Association) and for years have written editorials for the trade magazine here in Australia as well as the largest Aussie newspaper, I do find you comments rather patronising.
If you do find that the Glad "hard box" is better, well good for you. I would not recommend that.
Franco
MintakaCat
11-23-2009, 07:51
Mountainsmith Exposure II Camera Bag
http://www.amazon.com/Mountainsmith-Exposure-II-Camera-Bag/dp/B000BB9RXE
If it rains real hard, I toss the whole thing into a ziplock bag.
Case of some sort + ziploc in the case for me. But I have had more losses with oops drops than any water issues. So for me, the strap is my best defense. Whenever the camera is out, the strap is on, including anyone taking a picture of me. One camera bit it because someone else accidentaly dropped it.
ShelterLeopard
11-23-2009, 11:18
I just wanted to say, someone gave me two of those brang new pelican boxes for my camera, cell and wallet on a kayaking trip two years ago... All I'll say is good thing I checked before I put my camera in and dunked it in the river. Leaked.
Wrong Answer.
I am pointing out from experience a 20 cent Glad hard box can out preform the current $30 Pelican case in one foot of water, based on my test in the store last year.
Well, Ziplocks have worked for me for about 30 years now, with both film SLR's and a couple of different digital cameras now. Never had one fail due to moisture. Manufacturing defect, yes - getting wet, no.
Maybe that's cause I make sure not to put my camera in a foot of water. :D
ShelterLeopard
11-23-2009, 14:32
Well, Ziplocks have worked for me for about 30 years now, with both film SLR's and a couple of different digital cameras now. Never had one fail due to moisture. Manufacturing defect, yes - getting wet, no.
Maybe that's cause I make sure not to put my camera in a foot of water. :D
Don't you know that you're supposed to soak your camera in a foot of water every night before bed???
Seriously though, I've had bad luck at a couple river crossings!!! :eek:
the goat
11-23-2009, 14:40
i got this & don't worry a/b it anymore:
http://www.olympusamerica.com/cpg_section/product.asp?product=1448
shockproof (you can drop it on concrete)
waterproof to 33ft
freezeproof to 14 degrees F
crushproof to 220lbs
i haven't been able to break it yet, it even takes pics under water.
Wise Old Owl
11-23-2009, 19:17
i got this & don't worry a/b it anymore:
http://www.olympusamerica.com/cpg_section/product.asp?product=1448
shockproof (you can drop it on concrete)
waterproof to 33ft
freezeproof to 14 degrees F
crushproof to 220lbs
i haven't been able to break it yet, it even takes pics under water.
kind of wish I had done that in the first place - but at the time they were not 8MB.
And Franco - I apologize for coming off condesending.... It is not intentional.Just frustrated with spending so much and trashing them so quickly.
WOO
No problem, as you said I don't have an axe to grind (if I had it would be a Gransfors Brucks...)
The most frustrating part of retailing is recommending a product that "normally" works and it breaks the first time someone uses that. Particularly so when the one you made the recommendation to happens to be a friend or regular customer. Unfortunately it does happen.
In your case considering that the others did not work in the shop I suspect they had a faulty batch . I would think that it has to do with the Auto Pressure Valve ( a piece of Gore-tex...)
I had a look at the B&H web site, they list six brands of hard cases , 455 (!) versions , 311 of them are Pelican. So they must still have faith in them.
BTW, when I had a customer disgusted with his second Canon breaking down, I recommended a Nikon. I did the same to the Nikon customers...
Franco
This year on the PCT, I kept my camcorder in an OP/Tech Lens Case that I had modified to mount to my shoulder strap to keep it readily available. The lense case kept light rain off and most of the water off the camcorder. I also used a 1/2 gallon Ziplock where the ziplock seal was facing sideways in the lens case. My camcorder had no trouble staying dry, even in 2.5 days of rain. I still had access to it when I wanted it and the camcorder could be used while protected since I could use it while most of it was under the ziplock.
TravelPro
06-29-2010, 17:10
Took some pics of Fevruary's Snowmageddon on the East Coast here. Dropped my ($200 Costco) Panasonic Lumix, great camera, while changing it from one gloved hand to another. Only dropped from waist height (30-36 inches max) onto solid-ice-coated sidewalk. Killed it dead instantly. I had it out & using it so the best case in the world probably wouldn't have saved it. Maybe DIY-ing some kind of padding to the corners might have helped. Or probably not.
TravelPro
06-29-2010, 17:21
FWIW, Container Store, REI and other shops all carry heavyduty little ziploc bags (4x6, 3x4 etc) perfect for iPhones, pocket cameras & other electronics. Get two + some spares, double bag your item.
Also, try hitting a good thrift store with a big bin of used cases for eyeglasses/sunglasses. I carry my iPhone in a Container Store ziplock bag, inside a 1970s-1990s thick vinyl rectangular eyeglass sleeve. Cushioned with light padding/fleece interior, waterproof from most angles, and I can always add more layers of ziploc bags over that. Or just get out of the rain.
Thrift stores are also good for wide selections of various padded belt cases. And lots of other things not stocked at outfitters.