Expert: Abe - 3/4/2008

Question
I need to get my fiancee a new camera. He will be deploying overseas in a couple months and needs a very good all weather camera. He had an Olympus 35mm camera, but our dog decided it was better off as a chew toy... :-(

He doesn't need anything fancy, or with like 10 MP, or fancy options, just something simple, easy, and very durable. Also along with the camera being durable there is one other thing I am looking for in a camera for him. Since his film camera is no longer usable, he has been using my digital camera (its like a 4 yr old point and shot Sony power something...only 3.2 MP) and his biggest pet peeve about it is how long it actually takes to take the photo...like having to hold down the button and then wait for the series of flashes.....I'm sure there is a proper name for what I am asking, but it would be great if the camera took pictures quite quickly....
Thanks for any suggestions on what to get him
:-)


Answer
Hi Samantha,

You'll need an all-weather camera, and the only manufacturer who really makes one in a small size is Olympus. Go to Olympus's website and check out what they have to offer.

The last problem you mentioned is shutter lag. Unless you spend thousands of dollars, you'll have shutter lag in just about any digital camera. The good news is that this problem has been greatly reduced in most modern digital cameras, so there won't be long waits like he has with your current Sony.

Good luck!