What cameras do I use?

Hey Lee,

I was wondering what type of cameras you use? Having just had our first kid has got me thinking about getting a descent camera. I was thinking along the lines of Olympus E500, or Nikon D50?

Steve

Hey Steve.

My “real” camera is a Canon EOS 1D digital SLR with full-on Canon L-series lenses. That thing is a beast, but it takes great pictures — and it takes eight per second. I used that to shoot the book. It’s great for photo shoots, but it’s hard to carry on real adventures.

Shot with the Canon EOS 1D. I spent a month in Whistler with the beast in my backpack.

My everyday camera is a Pentax Optio 750Z. It fits in my Camelbak or jersey pocket, and it takes fine pictures for this site and several magazines. It also makes little videos, which revolutionized my skills coaching. Also: The thing is super durable. I’ve soaked it, dropped it and dented it, and it still works. I love this thing because it’s there when I need it.

Shot with the Pentax Optio 750Z. The 1D would be less grainy, but am I gonna carry it for rainy DH runs? No!

The best camera is the one you have on you. The new small SLRs like the D50 seem like a good size compromise, but I gotta say: If you’re gonna shoot life, buy a camera you can carry while you’re living. Cameras are so good these days; most people should get one that fits in their pocket.