Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Looking for a good digi camera under $400 ($300 preferably) to take field shots. 3 mp will be more than enough for me, as i plan to show them to my biology students on the computer. My plan is to record nearly every herp in our area. I need something durable because i will be in some rough terrain. Also i am wondering about the zoom. I dont think that i need a 10X zoom, but will 3x get me a good safe shot of a timber rattlesnake? I have spent countless hours reading this message board (and it has been very helpful) and on Steves-digicams (also very helpful), but i still am left very confused. Please help

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Also i am wondering about the zoom. I dont think that i need a 10X zoom, but will 3x get me a good safe shot of a timber rattlesnake?

The X factor of the zoom is irrelevant. It is the focal length of the lens and the magnification power of that lens at that focal length (or how close it will focus at that focal length) that matters.
You want a zoom that gives you close focusing abilities at a 35mm equilivent of about 200mm to get good pics of hots in rough terrain without having to get too close (say approx. 4 feet from the snake in question). Most 3X lenses don't allow you to get that kind of image from that distance.
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Chris Harrison

I recommend the Minolta Z-1. It is an up to date version of the Minolta Dimage 5, which I have used since 2002.
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Lamar, Debbie, Nathaniel and Iggi :>~