SLRs
Single lens reflex (SLR) cameras are still where it's at for the ultimate photo quality. With an SLR, you can use multiple lenses, and the sensors are bigger than those on point-and-shoot cameras, even on the entry-level models, so you get better pictures. For the ultimate in shooting landscapes, scenery and wildlife, it's pretty hard to beat the Canon 5D mark II. Boasting a stunning 21 megapixel full-frame sensor, the 5D can take beautiful shots that can be printed to poster size and bigger. As a bonus, the 5D can also shoot high definition video.
While the 5D is a great (and expensive) choice, not everyone has $3000 lying around for a camera and lens. Canon, Olympus, Nikon and Sony all offer excellent models that can give great results. The Olympus E-30 has a 12 megapixel sensor with a built-in dust cleaning system and a swivel LCD screen for shooting over people crowding the view. Canon's latest Rebel model, the T1i, has a 15 megapixel sensor and can shoot HD video. Nikon's D90 is a 12 megapixel camera with a fast autofocus system. Sony's flagship A900 has a 24 megapixel full-frame sensor for stunning shots.
Advanced Point-and-Shoot
While SLRs give the best results, not everyone wants to carry the weight and bulk of an SLR body and a lens or two. John Fielder has taken to carrying a Canon G10 point-and-shoot with him on his excursions into the wilderness. With 14 megapixels and a 6x optical zoom, the G10 is top of the line in point-and-shoots. For those looking for a point-and-shoot with more zoom, the Nikon P90, with a 20x optical zoom and wide angle lens for panoramic shots, is a great value. The new Panasonic DNC-ZS3 has a 12x Leica zoom lens and wide angle capability to 25 mm, as well as a 10 megapixel sensor and HD video recording.
Compact Point-and-Shoot
Olympus has been building some of the most durable point-and-shoot cameras on the market for several years, and these cameras offer a lot to the outdoor enthusiast. The 12 megapixel Stylus-8000 is waterproof to 33 feet and has underwater shooting modes, is drop-proof from heights of 6.6 feet, works at temperatures of 14 degrees F, and has a crushproof LCD screen. The Stylus 6000 is similar, but is only waterproof to 10 feet and rated to drops from 5 feet, and has a 10 megapixel sensor.
