Q. Hi Gear Guy, I’m into digital photography, but so far I’ve been using my cell phone or borrowing a camera. So, I want to get one of my own. I saw the Pentax Optio WG-1 in the May 2012 issue of Boys’ Life and thought it would be perfect, but the reviews are all over the place. Some people say it’s awesome and some people say it sucks. Is it a good camera or should I look at something else?
– Debating Douglas, Garden City, Idaho
A. Hey Douglas. Good question. And I’m glad to hear you’re researching products before making a purchase. Smart move. Here’s the thing, there’s so much information out there, it can be overwhelming. And when it comes to online reviews, even if it’s the best product in the world there will always be someone who says it’s lame. You just have to do your best to sort through the junk out there.
As for the Pentax Optio WG-1, it is indeed a good camera. That’s why we included it in the pages of Boys’ Life. I tested it over several months and think it lives up to expectations. It’s very durable, waterproof and takes good images. Can you find a camera that takes better images? Sure. Can you find one that’s more durable and Scout-proof? I’m not so sure. Here’s the deal: if you’re looking for a durable outdoorsy camera, that takes good images and is relatively affordable, I’d say the Optio is a good choice. Pentax is a trusted brand in cameras and they just came out with their 13th version of this camera, the Optio WG-2.
Yes, there are tons of more expensive, higher quality cameras out there. But remember this, Douglas, good photography doesn’t require an expensive camera. What’s way more important is the person taking the picture, the way you frame the shot, and the creativity that goes into your image.
