Nikon Coolpix 7900
This 7-megapixel Nikon pocket camera gives snapshot photographers lots of shooting options at an affordable price. But with a few accessories, it can offer even greater versatility. These items are portable enough not to defeat the purpose of buying an ultracompact model and cheap enough that they won't cost more than the camera itself.
This hard plastic case provides access to all the important camera controls while protecting the 7900 underwater. You can dive as deep as 130 feet with it. It might also come in handy if you prefer hiking or extreme sports to being submerged, since the housing will protect the camera from rain, dust, and rough handling.
Even though the Coolpix 7900 doesn't have a hotshoe or a port for connecting an external flash, that doesn't mean you can't use one. If you want to improve your illuminating power and get rid of red-eye by increasing the distance between the flash and the lens, you can buy a little external flash such as this one. It attaches to the camera with a bracket that screws into the tripod mount. It then wirelessly syncs with the in-camera flash when you shoot.
It's always good to carry a spare. Better yet, pick up a couple so that you can keep one in the charger and one with you in case you run low on power while you're shooting.
Using the 7900's rechargeable battery is both more economical and kinder to the environment. However, if you're planning to take the camera off the grid, having a few nonrechargeable cells could be a necessity. This Nikon can run on long-lasting CP1 batteries. Pick some up well in advance of your trip; chances are you'll have a hard time finding them on the road.
It doesn't make sense to buy a compact camera and lug a huge tripod around, but from time to time you'll probably want to shoot hands-free with a self-timer or long exposure. This little tripod weighs just 2.6 pounds and folds up to a 16-inch length. You can't toss it in your purse with the Coolpix, but it's easy enough to pack in a carry-on bag or pick up on your way out the door to a weekend event.
