Panasonic Lumix FT4

[Smitters]

Having researched the rough and the rugged in the world of compact cameras, and have settled on the FT4, in tasteful orange. Was momentarily sidetracked by a £175 FT3 on the basis that they appear to be exactly the same object in slightly different packaging, but popped for the more modern version. I've used my SLR on the go, but sometimes you can't help but wish for something compact when out running/walking/on a bike.

I had an Olympus Tough 720SW years ago and took some pretty decent shots with it while kicking around the world, so we shall see how it goes.

[littleredrooster]

I can certainly vouch for the older FT10, which I have in my (often wet) motorcycle jacket pocket most of the time. It takes very good 'point-and-shoot' pictures in situations where you wouldn't otherwise get a shot.

And yes - it's absolutely light years ahead of the Olympus, which I also owned and sold very quickly.

[TigerS6]

Good choice, I've got the FT3 in the same funky orange. And it has been absolutely superb.
The underwater shots have been great, general snapshots have been clean and sharp.
The 3D photo's are quite frankly amazing, and the HD video is very capable for a small camera.
When we ultimately break this one (at some point in the future), I'd have no issues with going for the same range.

[Smitters]

Well, that's good to hear for sure. Whilst I love the idea of a super-zoom compact, the reality is that I run, mountain bike, climb, walk, travel in rough places and do silly things. I'm no amateur marvel, but with a bit of know-how and experimentation you can get some great shots. I've blown something up to A0 from a compact before and had people amazed that it's a) mine and b) from such an unassuming little object.

Also, a tip of the cap to the London Camera Exchange, who delivered in under 24 hours a pair of GT86 orange beauties (one for me, one for her), each of which cost less than some FT3s out there. Battery currently charging as we speak...