Going to Iraq and need a good camera!

[overlander]

I'm about to deploy, and don't really have time for extensive research like last time, and hoping some of you can help me focus on a few best in class choices for an outdoor oriented compact digital that I can take with me. My last camera, the Pentax Optio, did very well and survived the last deployment, but at 3.2 megapix, the resolution isn't that great, and it is slow and fuzzy in all but the brightest and steadiest snaps.

Ideally, here's my consideration factors

1. ruggedized (dust, splash proof)
2. 6-7 megapixel or better
3. compact, can fit in pocket collapsed
4. protected lens/components when not in use
5. SD memory card preferred
6. great battery life
7. must use AA batter or rechargeable lithium (no AA or specialized battery)
8. great low light performance (no fuzzy pictures when low light pics taken without tripod)

Thanks everyone! Given some of the awesome pictures I've seen in this forum, I know I'll get some good advice here. Let's keep price off the table for consideration for now. I'll look at that as a secondary comparison point myself.

 

[Lost Canadian]

I would have said a G series canon, all metal body, built like a tank, yada yada yada. But I can't recommend them in your case, having had to return my G9 three times now, in less than a year, for cleaning due to debris on the sensor.

Both Pentax and Olympus have a shock and waterproof lines of pocket cameras but the image quality of these models have recieved so so reviews.

It's tough, there's not a ton of pocket cameras that fall into the "rugged" category, and those that do seem to have drawbacks.

 

[Travelmore]

I got my father in-law the Pentax Optio 43WR for his tour in Iraq. He had no problems with it. I would recommend that you get Rayovac rechargeable batteries if possible. The unit is compact takes good photos and is rated for water resistance. I also have one for skiing and hiking trips and have not had a problem with it. They have some newer models that are water proof and higher megapixel. I would use Steves Digicams for reviews.
http://www.steves-digicams.com/2004_reviews/optio43wr.html

 

[BKCowGod]

Okay... remind me not to ExPo while bleary eyed from a night of diabetes mismanagement, but I did not read that as camera, but as camel.
:26_16_2:

Now. Check out the Fuji Finepix Z. It's dirt cheap ($150 at Target), surprisingly rugged, teeny, great battery life, and comes in several stylish colors.
EDIT - oops, uses a proprietary battery, though.

 

[overlander]

Thanks all As mentioned, I currently have a Pentax Optio 33WR that is 3.2 megapixel and a combat vet. The newest waterproof version is the 60W, which is 10 mp. Wow, didn't know they had come that far. I think I'm going that route, as the 33WR really survived the last deployment well. the rechargeable Lithion will do.

 

[mjohnston39]

Olympus makes 2 models (Stylus 850 & 1030 SW) that are shock and water resistant. I think you might have problems meeting all of your requirements, espically the low light preformance in a compact...

 

[cjmitchell5]

I just got a new camera a few months ago and researched it pretty extensively. I was looking for something hi-res, decent video, and bulletproof. I settled on the 1030sw after everything I read and couldn't be happier.

 

[Michael Slade]

Buy a Nikonos V and shoot film. Don't get much more rugged than that.

Also comes in combat green:

 

[kellymoe]

I always loved the Nikonos. I'm too impatient now however. I want the instant gratification the digital offers

 

[overlander]

Great feedback. Now the 1030 is at the top of the list.

 

[mjohnston39]

You might also want one to pick up a small tripod or one of these http://www.joby.com/ or http://www.amazon.com/POD-Camera-Platform-Bean-Bag/dp/B00009UTQ3. Small and with the gorillapod you can wrap it on to anything...

Edit - there is now a 1050SW that has been just release and a review of it here: http://www.steves-digicams.com/2008_reviews/stylus1050.html

Mike.