If you’re the type of person that likes to get in touch with the great outdoors when you take a vacation or make a weekend excursion, then you’ll likely need a camera that can keep up with you and not end up a pile of useless shards by the end of the trip. While most camera can resist a few bumps and drops, most can’t handle serious jostling or dives underwater without a host of potentially expensive repairs. There are a few simple point and shoots on the market for the amateur photographer that combine quality photography with the ability to take just about any kind of abuse you throw at them. Here are three to consider:

• Pentax Optio W80: This camera is head and shoulders above other point and shoot cameras in its ability to take a beating and keeping on shooting. At around $300 it’s not substantially more expensive than other point and shoots and offers the same 12 megapixels, zoom lens and other features that are pretty standard. What isn’t standard is its toughness, making it able to withstand short drops, submersion up to 16 feet and the ability to work in mere 14 degree whether. With dustproof, waterproof, coldproof and shockproof capabilities in a compact and portable body, it’s the perfect companion for any outdoor expedition.



• Panasonic Lumix TS1: This camera is another great option if you want a camera that loves getting dirty and enjoying the great outdoors as much as you do, or at least won’t complain if it gets taken along for the ride. With shock resistance that holds up when dropped from 5 feet it’s not a frail camera, nor will it be sidetracked by water, dust or other environmental factors. It also comes with 12 megapixels, a 4.6x optical zoom lens, and image stabilization capabilities for great images even when you’re not on steady ground.



• Olympus Stylus Tough 8000: While bulkier than some other “active” cameras, the heft of this model pays off as it was found in tests to withstand drops of up to 6.6 feet with only a few minor scratches to the surface. And that’s just what it was designed to do, as the website for the camera bills it as “rugged,” “extreme” and “tough.” This camera can also go with you up to 33 feet underwater, withstand temperatures of 14 degrees, and even avoid getting crushed under 220 pounds of pressure. But does it take good pictures? While that might be subjective, it does attempt to help you out with image stabilization, 12 megapixels and a 3.6x optical zoom.

There are certainly more options out there when searching for the perfect camera companion for your active lifestyle but these three are a great start to researching a good fit.

This post was contributed by Amber Hensley, who writes about the accredited online college. She welcomes your feedback at AmberHensley1980@yahoo.com.