Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS1 waterproof digital camera

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TSI Waterproof Digital Camera – the first “tough camera” with HD video capability

Everytime I damage yet another electronic item by getting it wet, I am almost always met with the same response from my family and friends: “Again? Really?” As a girl who has dropped phones in pools, run them through a full cycle in the washing machine, dropped a camera in a cup of beer and most recently sacrificed another phone when it vibrated its way from the arm of the couch into a water glass, I am certainly one who knows the value of having a waterproof digital camera.

While the first waterproof digital cameras still worked even after you got them wet, they weren’t exactly known for taking the best quality pictures. And while the newer models have improved, they definitely still do lack when it comes to actual photographic quality.

That being said, having a waterproof digital camera, especially when traveling, sure is reassuring. You can take it out on that boat trip without worrying about inadvertent spray ruining your photos. You won’t have to attempt covering your camera with your clothes when it starts to rain on the hike, You can get photos underwater while snorkeling or take it out to get some shots on that kayak trip.

The new Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS1 waterproof digital camera is not only waterproof, but it’s also built to be super tough and withstand drops of 5 feet. There is also shock and dust proofing, a lens reinforcement system and it’s waterproof up to 10 feet—making this cookie one hard thing to break. There is even an external dive case that extends the depth rating to 130 feet.

While the photos from the camera weren’t spectacular, the colors were accurate and the camera features optical stabilization, which is a nice bonus. The camera also has a super sleek, compact and clean design—making it less bulky than some other waterproof models out there on the market. The new Panasonic Lumix waterproof digital camera also is the first tough camera of its kind that has the ability to shoot HD video.

>>Check out more waterproof digital cameras

The Quick & Dirty:
Where you can get one: Amazon.com

Why it Rocks:

Seat-of-the-pants rating: 8 out of 10

If you’re looking for a feature-rich camera that’s designed for abuse, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS1 seems like a promising choice, especially given its HD-video prowess. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS1 is the company’s first attempt at a rugged compact camera, and I had good intentions for it as I am already a Lumix fan. Generally speaking, it’s a success. The camera may not be quite as impervious to shock and the elements as some of the competition, but it is waterproof up to a depth of 10 feet, shockproof from falls up to 5 feet, and dustproof. On the other hand, it looks and performs better than its competition, and it has some great features including HD movie capture, a wide-angle lens, and a long battery life. Overall it’s a good choice when look for a waterproof digital camera.

Looking to buy? Here’s where you can get one:
Amazon.com