Best Cameras For The Trail?

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

(Mistake! - The Canon M50 is a APS-C Sensor NOT a Micro 4/3) Do you document your Adventures? What Camera are you currently using on the Trail? What's your "Dream Adventure Camera"? LET ME KNOW DOWN BELOW!

[@AstheMagpieFlies]

I document my Adventures!! (well Motorcycle/Camping Adventures) I started on a Canon Powershot, then a Sony A5100, and now I have a Sony A7rII. I would really like to try out a RX100 as a more handheld vlogging camera and have my A7rii as my cinematic be roll camera.

[@robertschwartz9234]

Am using a GoPro

[@FrankBergdoll]

Canon EOS R is my camera now. I bring a 24-105, 16-35, and a 70-200 lens (well, 2 of them). I also use LEE Filters and have a cool trail tripod that uses my hiking poles as two of it’s legs. This allows for long-exposure shots of water, etc. (The tripod is called “TrailPiX” and is a craft-industry guy)

[@nicholasmarion8468]

I use my galaxy S6 and it works great for 99% of my photos. I rarely bring my Nikon coolpix L840 not because of its size, but more of the density of my surroundings.

[@WilliamSchwartz]

Franklandish which 70-200 lens? I have the 70-200 f4 L one and love it.

[@fredcox961]

Thanks for sharing your experience and insight on cameras for the trail. I very much agree that documenting your life is valuable beyond expectation, and tools, such as cameras and microphones as well as pens and tablets, are important enablers of the process. Starting with what you have is important as that allows you to understand better what you need and want and encourages you to earn and set aside funds for your goals.

[@clayschuetz899]

Thank you, great video, I'm planning on vlogging my AT hike next year, and one of the main reasons for that is to inspire others with physical problems and pains to get out there, to show them that yes it is possible, you don't have to give up dreams to limits and pains, sometimes you just have dig deeper and find the will and that will can carry you further than you ever thought possible Anyways, thank you for the suggestions😁.

[@joeret2896]

Thanks in helping me finally make a decision on what camera to buy. Great explanation on the differences in features.

[@OffTheBeatenPot]

Thanks so much for your advice and videos and the inspiration to start my own channel! Great video.

[@robertschwartz9234]

Thank you bud for making this very grateful can't wait for more UL on a budget type of videos tho

[@rosacurls]

Thank u were very helpful as I always cluttering up my cell phone space but don’t want bulky when biking, running long walks

[@johneason6540]

Always good work and good content. Thanks

[@Z0MB13Redfield]

The Sony Nex line are awesome mirrorless point and shoots too

[@c3920]

Perfect timing on this video. I've been waiting to buy a new camera for the trail. Thanks for the tips Darwin, I love you vids and Neemor's!

[@MrKamos57]

Love all of your videos. What do you use to hold your camera and do you use a small tripod?

[@CleoCat75]

wow nice video coverage of all the options. My biggest question is about GoPro video cameras, like how LONG do they last? Can it record continuously for a 3-hour hike? I'd like to do a sped-up version of my hikes for social media, but would also love to have full video of the entire journey for myself.

[@FrankBergdoll]

You are a brave man Darwin! :) Cameras and the opinions on them are an area of ... “intense” discussion :) I think you did a great job of addressing the various categories of smaller, lightweight cameras. If I would offer any advice, it would be to make a list of what you plan to do with the camera as part of the decision-making process. I think you addressed this well. My favourite part of this video was the create something statement. I could not agree more. It is so important - even if someone doesn’t have a KZbin channel, etc. When I look back at my many years of hiking and going outdoors, I lament all the times I didn’t. Now, of course, I do (I have a pretty low-end channel here on KZbin), and I’m always interested in learning new ways to be creative. I was watching “Hiker in Estonia” and she does watercolour painting - so cool. Oh - and you did miss the category that I’m in when it comes to camera gear :) The heavier DLSR and Full-Frame mirrorless with lenses. I’m also a Canon fan and I was using a Canon 6D and have just switched to a Canon EOS R (mirrorless). It’s about 2100g of camera, lenses, and filters. For anyone interested in photography, I sincerely recommend taking online courses on photography and video - I’m a rank amateur, but love learning. Thanks for another GREAT video. I have enjoyed the past couple of years watching ya!

[@mc52]

Thank you Franklandish for your great comments and suggestions. Looking forward to the courses on line!

[@jaymatrixe]

Great video Darwin ! Personally rocking my RX100VI and GoPro hero session ❤️✌️

[@JiTiKeRo]

Thanks Darwin. Great info. Thinking of documenting my hikes in Harriman State Park. Considering using Stick Pic with a phone mount.

[@randysmith6493]

There is one more camera you might be have to consider. DJI’s OSMO, I think this could become very popular on trail for videos. Small, light, gimbaled, time laps gimbaled, face and body tracking, 4K 60, phone interface, and remote. Option mic input, thus is pretty sweet. The canon 1” sensor makes a bid difference thought and with a flip mirror is very helpful.

[@JustinDoesTriathlon]

I use an X3000 pretty extensively in my videos, and I'm a huge fan. I tried out a Hero 6 and 7, and wasn't as impressed with the stabilization as some people are. I find it *fantastic* up until the point that it 'runs out of room' to digitally stabilize, and then the frame just shifts really roughly and noticeably. The optical stabilization of the X3000 still wins that for me. It'll only shoot up to 4k30, but that's the same as the GoPros with stabilization on, so I consider that a wash. I wish it had higher built-in waterproofness, vs needing the case, but that's not a huge issue for me day-to-day.

[@3WalkingPoles]

Very useful - thank you, Darwin. Cannot wait to see your big 2019 documentary. Cheers, Seb

[@chadmitchem7472]

Amazing timing Darwin, thank you! I began shopping only days ago for a camera apart from my iphone to get great shots with. I knew of the XR100 but thanks for putting me on to some of the others. Looking forward to documenting my adventures just for myself, but all this YT content has inspired me to up my game. Thank you!

[@jonmorgan5725]

Thank you for the idea of the GOPRO session mark four. Never thought of that one. On my Instagram I’ve been using the Cannon Rebel Ti1. That’s right, the first generation rebel. It’s a big old beat up lug but it gets the job done. I’ve also been using my iPhone lately. Mainly because when you add up the weight of the camera gear it’s down right too heavy! One day while going south bound from 19E to doll flats in Roan Mountain it took me three hours to move 3 miles! All because the gear to get a shot at sunrise from Hump mountain. Needless to say I didn’t get the shot.

[@andyart01]

Good video, but the canon you use is not a micro 4/3 camera, it’s aspc, not much of a difference, but very important when buying lenses. Micro 4/3 cameras and lenses are Panasonic or Olympus (Panasonic is generally one of the best options for video)..

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Yep, I biffed it on that one. I was thinking about the G7 when talking about the M50. My mistake! Thanks for catching that! Hike On, Darwin

[@west-coexploration8192]

Wow, so much to think about. Ever since I caught the bug to document my trips (I kind of blame you for this), I keep struggling with my equipment. Trying to figure out which cameras to bring and which one to use in each situation. Thanks for the tips.

[@keveck86]

Congrats on 140k!

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Thanks Kevin! Hike On, Darwin

[@matravnos]

Thank you for posting this! I've really been wanting to get a dedicated camera for documenting my hiking/camping. This was very helpful!

[@delphinelesterlost3285]

I'm really keen on a GoPro, both for hiking and skiing. I agree that creation is important when you're hiking

[@KeeFrHikes]

Love this post! I've been using action cameras/gimbals until recently and switched to GoPro 7 Black for vlogs without the gimbal. It's super smooth, but eventually I want to go mirrorless. The lens options would be awesome to capture the experience better. Thanks for taking the time to detail the differences in each type of camera with suggestions.

[@expatadventureturkey9324]

Great content, enjoyed the view of a hike light and tech geek view. 😉👍🏽👣🏔 can’t wait for the Arizona Trail documentary.

[@ehtcom]

Currently lug a D750, 18-35mm and 28-300mm and SJcam action cam for video. Dream kit for hiking is a Fuji X-T3, 18-135mm, Rokinon 12mm f2, and Zhiyun Weebill gimbal.

[@johnmcneeley]

I just put my order in for a brand new concept in cameras. The DJI Osmo Pocket. It looks like it might be awesome for a hiking vlog. It is a tiny little 4k camera/gimbal combination. It has face tracking, slo mo, time lapse, motion lapse, and active track. Looks like it might be really good in low light situations. There are lots of KZbin reviews out there. I'm hoping it is a cool as it looks in the reviews. I bet we will see some of these on trail next season. You should check it out.

[@AndyOutdoors]

Yup on the weight alone it has to be a contender. I've ordered one, but will probably use it in addition to my GoPro or Rx100. Audio might be an issue but thats the same on most smaller cameras!

[@jaydesimone4297]

You have a lot of Canon glass...what do you bring with you? I've been doing day hikes to get myself into shape for longer ones, and carrying my DSLR, a couple lenses, filters, and a tripod seems like a lot of weight for a long hike (although I do like them now for getting my body accustomed to the weight on my back). Considering that people abandon paperbacks to save weight on thru-hikes, I'm thinking 6-8+ lbs of camera gear is likely backbreaking.

[@richardswenman]

Great video! I have a question, how do you charge the Canon M50 while on trail? Do you charge the battery while inside the camera or do you carry a specific charge-device that connects to the powerbank?

[@endoman9587]

Hi Darwin, thanks for the video😀 What tripod and mic do you use when you are on the trail? The ones you gave links for in the description are quite heavy, it seems. Thanks!

[@danmunro01]

Thanks for the video, you have convinced me that I should be taking my Canon EOS M5 on the PCT in 2019.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Definitely bring it! Hike On, Darwin

[@Hvn1957]

I recently tried out a Canon M6, since I too am an old Canon guy. I’ve been doing photography since the early sixties, and I just cannot get used to not having a viewfinder on a serious camera. It doesn’t bother me on my iPhone, surprisingly. But when I want to really compose a shot, I want to see through a viewfinder. So I sent the M6 back. For now I’m going to be content with a new iPhone XS, and wait til the budget allows something else. If only I could get a good digital back for my old beloved Contax G-1!!

[@mradios4671]

Many thanks in advance for the video, learning so much from your videos. Please let me know what brand name you use for your Monopod & Pole? Thanks

[@fargin2778]

Loved the rundown for different needs. The Canon M50 had me wondering why the branding was blacked out, is it an anti-theft thing?

[@kennethmccomas82]

How do you protect you camera. What cases are light, weather proof etc...

[@jedediahdavis1283]

How come you didn't go with the Panasonic LUMIX G85? It's weather sealed!? Versus the G7 that's not.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

I already have alot of Canon Glass that I’ve invested in over the years & I’m familiar with Canon’s interface. Hike On, Darwin

[@wholenutsanddonuts5741]

Great video! I’m looking for a light weight camera for a trek to Everest ( my canon 5D is just too bulky). I’m thinking a lumix g7 might be the ticket. I’ll have to look up nemore’s videos to check it out!

[@whynotadventures5314]

Hi Darwin. I was wondering what you think of the Sony A6000. Looking to upgrade my old 10 year old camera. Thanks in advance.

[@michaelacookePDX]

Would you consider doing a video on hiking preparation and safety? I found your channel after my daughter got lost on Mt Hood. She was unprepared for what she thought was a simple day hike. Unfortunately she made a wrong turn early in and didn't realize she was on the wrong trail for some time. There are a lot of young people now who have no idea how dangerous the backcountry can be. Great channel by the way.

[@chefegzyle]

Great video as always! Can you do one about camera accessories next? I'm loving the power of my note 9 camera for my adventures. But would like some extra things to help it along, like a stick, gorilla mount, or even software to edit with. Thanks, keep up the good work!

[@mc52]

Great question Egzyle Dee! A Darwin video on camera accessories would be fabulous!! This great information from a man with thousands of trail miles and experience, with the ability to share all his amazing knowledge!

[@rosierenton]

so helpful! Thank you!

[@SixPhilippe]

As for a mirrorless travel camera, I would advise a FUJI XT20. The included 18-55mm kitlens is amazing as well, probably the best kit lens out there. Paired with a 55-200mm & a small tripod, , you're set with a pro kit! Have been traveling with this kit for quit some time including some climbing hikes. Yes, it weights something, but the quality you get can't be compared with all suggested cameras here... I wouldn't go back to anything less. Additional suggestion, 'snapseed' app for photo editing rocks! It's free & awesome ;-)

[@grnwlski]

Hey Darwin, what do you use to mask the brands on your cameras? Gaffer tape? Looks clean!

[@seanpeine9258]

Your so positive! Great video going to get a mirrorless super excited for it.

[@JLujan24]

Awesome video. I carry a GoPro Hero 5 and a Canon SX710 HS. Love both but I for sure want to upgrade to the Hero 7 and a better Canon point and shoot camera hopefully with video stabilization. Any suggestions?

[@BankgeekOutdoors]

I just saw a review of a mini camera/gimbal combo from DJI. Do you use a gimbal, or is it just mastery of holding the camera steady? Your videos while walking seem awfully smooth.

[@mradios4671]

Thanks again, also need to ask you about the ball Head which you using on Monopod & Pole. Beautiful video

[@georgem3188]

Did you try GoPro 10?

[@TheBeardedOutdoorsman18]

Have you tried any of the Akaso action cameras?

[@ilychgallardo5159]

Always proving great information!🤘🏻

[@danwilliams6223]

Darwin, have you posted anything on most interesting wildlife, photos etc on the trail.

[@shyowl3453]

I’m not planning to video too much so a GoPro should work for that but I do really want some great photos so this is good information to have

[@EscapingTheCity]

REALLY appreciated this video man. I've been looking at that g7x mark ii for a long time. Currently filming on a samsung galaxy s8 which is great, but i really want to capture more depth in my videos and photos. Also i want to use something separate than my phone. I watched a lot of reviews on the g7x but it was really great hearing it from another hiker. A dslr or mirrorless camera is a little too bulky to carry on a hike. Thanks for the info man!

[@nickhauser9424]

Hey Darwin, Usually when I hike I take my iPhone 7 and I have been happy with the results. However I would like to bring a camera that takes photos that better capture the environment and scope of the terrain in a way that makes you feel like your are there. Could you point me towards some tutorials on taking better macro shots and some the lightweight gear you might recommend? Thanks

[@PMan-fn7vc]

Would be interesting to have an update on this. What would you suggest in 2023 ? 🙂

[@Brockdorf]

What do you use to edit the videos? It seems like your sound and lighting is always perfect, I am thinking that has to be corrected after the fact?

[@jordanchastain1838]

Hay darwen what is the best camera to use on a day hike

[@Fireballsocal]

Hey Darwin! Do you have any experience, anecdotal or otherwise, about the long term effects of hiking on the body? Specifically how well do feet and joints such as knees and hips tolerate the repetitive motion of many years of hiking?

[@Cherijo78]

The best camera you have is the one that's in your hand. I've seen some amazing things come out of the old Canon A520 4mp consumer grade, and crap cone out of high end DSLRs. People have taken amazing photos with the old cheapo 110 film cameras. The options we have today, including post processing on our phones, are bloody amazing. Gearheading is great, but at the end of the day, just take pics, shoot video, and share it!

[@NoSecondSeason]

Thanks for the pointers👍

[@roosterillusion1985]

Hey Darwin. Thanks for another great video. I'm planning to hike the PCT next year but ultra light options are very rare in my country. Do you think it's a bad idea to get some of that lightweight gear when I'm in the US for the PCT so I can save on weight or would you recommend using what's available locally? My opinion is that if certain items of gear can save me a lot of weight, then it's worth taking the risk and getting it just before the hike.

[@OffTheBeatenPot]

Wouter de Vos if you do your research online there is no reason not to buy it on the trail. You’ll have plenty of time to play with it on the PCT! You might have to pay customs on it when returning home but a good camera will be worth it. Research it until you’re bored of looking at cameras and then grab it when you land for your amazing hike. I look forward to seeing your videos.

[@roosterillusion1985]

@@OffTheBeatenPot I was referring to hiking gear in general. I know it's generally not recommended to take gear that you haven't tried before. However, does that thinking still apply if you only have heavier gear options available?

[@OffTheBeatenPot]

Wouter de Vos it’s always nice to try something first but let’s face it. Many things are bought online now without testing. Perhaps you can pack the gear you own and post home what you replace. Any reason to get a net lightweight toy, I’m all for!

[@BuckFu]

I use an Olympus TG 860. It’s been discontinued but I have had previous version that lasted really well, waterproof good video, the 860 was a great HD step up with a flip screen. I edit with the Splice app on my iphone, the only drawback is adding custom audio.

[@JoExplore]

Great video again! I am using Canon Rebel SL2, the smallest dslr Camera, to document my adventures. I am using the Design Peak Camera Capture Clip accessory to carry my camera.

[@zachallen1402]

My sl2 does a pretty good job for a relatively inexpensive DSLR camera!

[@timpagano4031]

All great camera choices. One thing that the M50 has that the other cameras don't have is a Mic jack for better recording. Darwin how do you handle the battery life? I'm struggling with getting longer battery life from the camera. Any suggestions? This a great review and you've developed into a great visual story teller. Thanks. BTW I love my M50 and I've had a bunch of much heavier Canon gear over the years and for the cost it stacks up well.

[@IanPryor]

Actually this is a pretty decent video Darwin, I appreciate you sharing!

[@danklaiber3733]

Thanks for the informative video Darwin! What lens would you recommend to use on trail for your Canon M50? Would you perhaps have one for vlogging and another for landscape photography?

[@sabrywaheedali]

loved the video.. just as all the others previous to this one!

[@archerhawke5161]

Hey I'm just wondering if that Peak Design Capture clip you talked about in an earlier video, works with the canon m50 you got too? Cause I've been thinking of getting the canon m50 and I liked that clip rig.

[@davidson_oldbull_sectionhiker]

Awesome information. Thanks

[@rachelguevarra804]

What's the name if the tripod on point on shoot on thumbnail?

[@borys4]

I will document my next hike. Any more tips on starting a youtube? ;)

[@TrekkingPals]

Hi there! We have a free meetup group to help people start an adventure channel. Send us an email [e-mail]

[@gpk7683]

Thanks Darwin very helpful

[@lenkerr7485]

Hey Darwin, what lens have you decided to go with on the M50? Thanks for the video!

[@jerryfortenberry1956]

What selfie stick or tripod did you use when videoing with cell phone ??

[@carolewarner101]

Awesome! But you teased at the beginning about drones and then didn't say anything about them. I've seen some super tiny ones coming out. Do you use a drone? Do you HIKE with a drone? Can you say anything about drones??? Thanks again.

[@SandhillGuitar]

Okay, so this is how you get your hike recorded on an sd card. Did you edit the videos on trail? Or did you have someone else do that on a computer? Only interested in on trail videos and how they were prepared for youtube. A search of your channel shows you haven't made that video yet, maybe the answer is in one the q&a videos?

[@augieparrinello2738]

Darwin, what is the size of the nd filter you have on the 22mm?

[@sair4804]

Hi Darwin - have you tried any of the lenses that attach to the iPhone (ex:Moment lens) . I’ve seen some that offer a variety of options of lenses-wide angle, micro, fish eye, etc. Curious what you’re thoughts are if you have tried them or know anyone who has. Thanks!!

[@arminkorsos]

great post! your channel is the best.

[@richardgadd2778]

I use Sony fdr x3000 . Will shoot 4K . I normally use 1080 with 60fps as it will allow more memory on micro sd card. Light weight ( I think 4 oz.) better stabilization than go pro, comes with a waterproof case and I can operate from phone as well as download videos and pictures to phone just by holding it next to it. If you haven't seen it, it's well worth a look.

[@HikeMoreWorryLess]

As usual, good video and awensome tip...but, you know...everybody wait (and want) the new dji toy ;)

[@RamboHikes]

I'm currently using the Canon ELPH 190IS, I'd like to upgrade once I get used to it but my issue is understanding the different settings to take pictures and videos.

[@justin4n6]

I use to bring an a6000 with a 10-18 and 18-200 traveling and hiking. But sold it and upgraded to a rx100m6 to cut weight and I didn't find myself swapping lenses while out and about. So for me the rx100m6 is perfect.

[@mrftuma]

How did you get rid of the Canon logo in your camara and the E0S logo?

[@aussiegruber86]

What do you edit with?

[@davidsong6036]

How do you carry and pack your cameras and lenses specifically without damaging them or getting them wet

[@anjinash]

Note: I haven't watched the video yet (I will when work slows down enough to do so), so it's possible you cover it in the video.... but I was curious: How do you get clean audio? Neither my GoPro Sessions, mirrorless DSLR or phone have line-in for audio. I'd imagine using onboard mics outside results in a lot of wind and other background noises muddling things up. When I go on my thru this Spring, the best option I can think of is to carry a digital voice recorder and speak into that, and later sync'ing it up with any video footage I shoot. Still not a great option, but short of buying a higher end rig (and having to carry it with me for 2000 miles), I'm not sure how else to do it!

[@shorttermlongterm6881]

Darwin...thank you for the PCT trip.

[@14BIDISHA]

I would like Osmo pocket too. Really great battery backup and good photos (almost like gopro)

[@astrog8tr]

I have the Sony a6000. (mirrorless camera). I very much like it but I feel it's rather heavy, even for me for non-thru hiker uses, I think around 1 lb. Didn't mention the "tough cameras", which take really good underwater shots, if you like that sort of adventure (Olympus Tough, Panasonic Lumix, Nikon AW, etc.Not sure it's exactly another category though.

[@alexgrossman3871]

This video is missing my favorite bit: “Hey guys, it’s Darwin!”

[@johneason6540]

A question for the 2018 PCT hike. How many hikers were permitted for this years hike? How mb any hikes completed the entire trail. Thanks

[@jbrown2118]

What filter adapter is that on the front of your G7x? I would love to attach a filter to my Canon

[@iberiksoderblom]

Thanks for this vidoe and all you've shown about light gear (something that does not have that much focus in the army. You just train to carry more... 😁) Yes, I want to document and to some extent share my civilian outdoors activities and maybe also some camp-/patrole activities, but not with so much talking 😉😁

[@jamesbilger]

Currently using a GoPro Hero 4 Black with a Sennheiser Elements MKE 2 microphone for my 2019 thru-hike. 75% of video is audio and I hate wind noise on the mic.

[@DarwinOnthetrail]

Nice little set-up! Hike On, Darwin

[@Cherijo78]

I'm a professional live audio gal, and I remember the first set of 10 mke2's my venue bought in 1999 for musicals. The venue just about flipped at the price tag, but those things proved themselves over and over on sweaty actors. Excellent choice.

[@cobelewin2799]

What kind of phone case do you have?

[@romenhiking8623]

How do you get the audio on your videos to be as clear as it is? Do you use microphones in your videos? Do have external microphones, or just the onboard microphones? Do you have windscreens/deadcats on your microphones? I think you have one of the best audio of youtube videos.

[@keithhepworth4934]

Drinking game: every time Darwin says “a ton”, do a shot.

[@carlosnajera65]

sounds like a dangerous game