Capturing family vacations on a camera is something we have always loved doing. It's not always easy! Adventuring with your kids can be challenging enough, let alone trying to capture those moments via a camera.
Over the years, I’ve had experience using three different camera options while adventuring: iPhone, GoPro, and DSLR. In this post, I'll share what I've learnt about choosing the right camera for your family so that you always have something to remind you of those memories in the great outdoors.
iPhone Camera
The first camera I want to talk about is the iPhone camera. And the reason I want to bring it up is because you will always have it on you. It’s very rare these days for someone not to have their phone in their pocket while adventuring. I find I can take high-quality photos with just my iPhone alone—I’m actually quite shocked at times by how good the photos come out.
One of the biggest benefits of the iPhone camera is that the big screen really allows you to see what the photo will look like, which is something you don’t really get with other camera options.
Another benefit is that it's super easy to use. And your photos are stored directly on your phone. It's also nice that you can share them instantly with your friends, family, and social media accounts.
GoPro Cameras
The second camera I want to talk about for family vacations is actually one that I use to film my Youtube videos. And that is a GoPro.
I take my GoPro everywhere with me because it's so compact and sturdy. GoPros are childproof, waterproof, and mudproof, meaning I can seriously abuse it while hiking, biking, or kayaking. And I know it's going to last thanks to its incredible durability.
Although GoPros are known for taking videos, what many people don’t recognize is that they also take really good photographs. My favorite setting—the time-lapse—lets you capture photos with your family while in the moment. And the best part? You don’t even need to be holding the camera yourself! You can set the GoPro down…put it in time-lapse mode…and let it capture the moments without even having to think about it.
Another thing I love about GoPros is there are many different attachments and accessories to change up the camera perspective. For example, when I'm kayaking, I like to wear the GoPro on my helmet as I go down rapids. But there are also selfie sticks, chest mounts, and floating attachments to give your photos and videos some really unique angles.
DSLR Cameras
The third camera we often take on family adventures is a DSLR camera. We’ve used a ton of DSLR cameras over the years. However, we’re realizing that we’re using them less and less. And that's mainly because the photo and video quality of our GoPro is just as high as a big bulky DSLR camera.
With that being said, one of the reasons that you might choose a DSLR camera over your GoPro or iPhone is because of the zoom. If you’re really far away from something, like a bird, for example, then it’s going to be easier to capture it on a DSLR camera with different lenses and zoom capabilities.
Which Camera is Best for Family Vacations?
The best camera option for family vacations is the one that’s going to give you the best quality photos while also being easy to use.
At the end of the day, you don’t want to be missing out on those beautiful family moments because you're fiddling with your phone. Don’t be the person with their phone out the whole time.
You want to be able to take the picture but still enjoy what you’re doing and everything around you. The only way to do that is to have something easy to use.
My iPhone is always in my pocket. And my GoPro can take on abuse, water, and mud—something you really need when you have kids—so knowing I don’t have to worry about it really allows me to enjoy the moment. Of course, each family is different. Find what works best for you and get out there and make some memories with your kids!
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Kayaks: Jackson Kayak Dynamic Duo, Jackson Kayak Rockstar
Life Vests: NRS Zen PFD
Backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
Clothing: Cotopaxi Fuego Down Kids’ Jacket, Cotopaxi Teca Cálido Reversible Kids’ Jacket, Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket, Cotopaxi Trico Hybrid Women’s Jacket, Do Good Kids’ Trucker Hat
Camera: GoPro Hero 10 Black
Sunglasses: Wiley X
