Camera and/or Video
Electronic devices such as cameras or video recorders are a great idea to take with you to record your journey. We are often asked what camera to take and that is a good question. There are three issues that you need to consider so that you are not disappointed:
Overheating and Humidity
As it is quite hot and humid along the Kokoda Track some cameras find it difficult to work properly with their built-in humidity sensors causing cameras to fail. Cameras that are waterproof or water-resistant do not seem to have this problem as the camera is essentially sealed from the conditions. If you plan to take a video camera please check the user manual for the operating temperatures and comments about humidity.
Waterproof
It is likely to rain along the Kokoda Track so we recommend you bring a camera that is at least water resistant or water proof. Keeping your camera in a plastic bag or zip-lock bag is okay for a while, but the likelihood of water entering the bag and getting onto the camera is high. There are a number of manufacturers that sell waterproof cameras that are really good and not too expensive. If you plan to bring your expensive SLR type camera to get the amazing shots, be realistic that there is a real risk of damage - do you really want to risk it?
Battery Life
Modern cameras tend to draw less power than older ones and their batteries are very good. A single set of batteries will typically last for many hundreds of photos. If you plan to take a lot of photos and/or video, bring some extra charged batteries as you will not have anywhere to charge them along the track, unless you bring a solar charging unit.
Tips:
Check out some of our photos and videos of the Kokoda Track to get an idea of the kinds of scenery and lighting you should expect.
- overheating or humidity
- getting wet
- battery life
Overheating and Humidity
As it is quite hot and humid along the Kokoda Track some cameras find it difficult to work properly with their built-in humidity sensors causing cameras to fail. Cameras that are waterproof or water-resistant do not seem to have this problem as the camera is essentially sealed from the conditions. If you plan to take a video camera please check the user manual for the operating temperatures and comments about humidity.
Waterproof
It is likely to rain along the Kokoda Track so we recommend you bring a camera that is at least water resistant or water proof. Keeping your camera in a plastic bag or zip-lock bag is okay for a while, but the likelihood of water entering the bag and getting onto the camera is high. There are a number of manufacturers that sell waterproof cameras that are really good and not too expensive. If you plan to bring your expensive SLR type camera to get the amazing shots, be realistic that there is a real risk of damage - do you really want to risk it?
Battery Life
Modern cameras tend to draw less power than older ones and their batteries are very good. A single set of batteries will typically last for many hundreds of photos. If you plan to take a lot of photos and/or video, bring some extra charged batteries as you will not have anywhere to charge them along the track, unless you bring a solar charging unit.
Tips:
- Bring along extra memory cards so you can replace a damaged one and also take lots and lots of photos. Keep it in a zip-lock bag with a silicon absorbing sachet like you find packaged with electronic goods.
- Work out how to attach your camera case to the front of your shoulder straps on your backpack so you can access your camera easily whilst trekking. You will take more photos if you can get at the camera easily. Having your camera hanging around your neck on a strap will not be safe or work well.
- Practice taking shots in conditions with lower light (as if you are under a jungle canopy) and conditions where you have lots of backlight. If you master these shots you will get better results along the Track.
- Avoid opening the battery and memory card covers so the chance of humidity or water entering is reduced.
- Remember to look around and take in the sights at all levels - close to the ground, up high in the trees and behind you. Lots to see.
- It is polite to ask before taking photos of locals in the villages, especially their kids.
Check out some of our photos and videos of the Kokoda Track to get an idea of the kinds of scenery and lighting you should expect.
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