Everyone has those moments when they find the perfect feature or tranquil setting that they want to take a snap of. As a result, it has become increasingly popular to carry cameras on the water, and after my previous camera braking, I chose to replace it with the Finepix XP20.
The Finepix XP20 is part of the XP series; with the main difference to the XP30 being that it does not have GPS, to allow Geotagging. With price obviously a consideration, I felt that this feature was not worthwhile, combined with the fact that Jessops gave me a great deal on the XP20.
Price wise, with a bit of shopping around, you can get an XP20 for about £120, which is a reasonable price considering the functions and durability of the camera. I have seen people pay several hundred pounds for a waterproof camera, but before you do, you should consider what extras you are getting and what other features you could possibly want extra to those which come as standard on this camera or similar priced equivalents.
The quality of images (14MP) is more than adequate for most purposes, and the 2.7” LED screen means that it is easy to see whatever you’re capturing. With some digital camera screens, you can have issues seeing the screen due to reflection, however; I have had no problems with the XP20. The camera also comes with a choice of 21 shooting modes, face detection, and HD recording. In addition, the Motion Panorama function means you can sweep the camera from left to right, and it takes several pictures, making a panorama shot, this is great if you have a sunset or large feature you want to take a shot of.
The XP20 is marketed to be waterproof up to 5m, shockproof to 1.5m, freeze proof to -10oc and dust proof. Excluding dust proof, all crucial features to consider when purchasing a camera that will be used mainly for kayaking. The camera has a tough feel, with some metal parts. It is durable and after having it for just under year, is have taken a few bangs, and is living up to the ‘shock proof’ criteria.
Whilst the camera is clearly made to last, the metal parts do not make the camera ugly, but contrast with the black (also available in blue) to make a relatively good looking camera. The buttons are tough, and have again, taken a few blows. You can access the battery via a hinged battery slot. The only thing you need to make certain with this is that it clicks back into place, to show the seal has been re-made.
The XP20 is larger than its predecessor – XP10 however; it is still a compact camera which will fit into almost all buoyancy aid pockets. I chose to attach mine with a piece of rope to the inside of the front of my Buoyancy Aid, for easy access at that perfect moment. The one drawback that I have found is that sometimes the on/off button can be a pain to press, however, with it likely to be in a buoyancy aid, this makes it less likely to accidently turn it on.
Overall, the XP20 is a very practical camera, which certainly lives up to the: ‘waterproof’, ‘shockproof’, ‘freeze proof’ and ‘dust proof’ criteria. With my brother having the XP10, and me having the XP20, we would both highly recommend this series to fellow kayakers, with good quality durable cameras at a reasonable price.
