RE: [Paddlewise] Telephoto lens for WP cameras?

From: Colin Calder <c.j.calder_at_abdn.ac.uk>
Date: Fri, 20 Nov 1998 14:52:09 -0000
> We use a Pentax WR90, which has a 38-90 zoom lens. It is not advertised
> as "waterproof" although it is dunkable. Do not zoom it while it's under
> water, though. I've worn it under my PFD in Class III rapids, so you
> needn't worry about it getting wet. The lens is not as good as my Pentax
> AF/SLR lenses, but better than most point-and-shoot cameras.
>
> We bought ours in preparation for a trip to the Apostles in 1994. I
> think the zoom length is a little longer in the newer ones.
>
> Steve

I'll also vouch for the Pentax WR90. I had my trusty SLR & some lenses
stolen this summer, and when the insurance settlement came through I
whittled the choices down to getting a Nikon FM2 & standard lens to replace
the SLR (+ forking out bucks to re-build the collection of lenses), or a
Pentax WR90 and a pair of Nikon 7x50 wp/compass binoculars to make up the
difference in value. After much humming and hahhing I realised that I rarely
actually took the SLR outfit in my boat/bikes/climbing/skiing because I was
worried about damage or couldn't justify the bulk and weight (and I never
took my non-waterproof bins in the boat), and therefore opted for the
compact and the bins. I've been really impressed with the capabilities of
the camera - a lot more than a simple point and shoot, dunkable, fits in a
pfd pocket, and while the lens isn't quite as sharp as my previous SLR
lenses it's pretty bloody close, and far away the best on a compact (let
alone water resistant compact) I've seen. Bins aren't bad either :-)



Cheers

Colin Calder
57º19'N  2º10'W

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Received on Fri Nov 20 1998 - 06:53:33 PST

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