I decided to purchase the Olympus 8000 mainly because it is waterproof. It seems to take quality photos underwater (as well as videos). I take it canoeing, snorkeling, hiking, fishing and other adventures. The water, sand and all the banging around I submit it to doesn't seem to phase it. I have yet to push the boundaries of it's 'toughness' but seems to hold up to advertised limits. I do however like a camera that has a greater optical zoom than this one does. I suppose the lack of moving parts is a plus with waterproofing electronics. Other than that, it is good quality, compact camera. The 350-400 dollar price tag seems a little high in today's market, however the shockproof and waterproof features are worth it to me.
The reason for the average rating is due to the pictures that it takes. You really need a lot of light for this camera to take good pictures. The other features are good because I dropped the camera six feet and handled the impact fine. There is a little scratch but can definitely take the beating. I'm buying a camera to take good pictures and so far, it has not really met my expectations when it comes to doing the face detection. The camera is also a little too slow specially for a more expensive camera, it should be able to take better pictures. I really have to take my time to take a picture and make sure the focus is sharp, if not, then I need to let go of the button and push it halfway again to let it try and focus again. This little step takes time and sometimes, you don't have the luxury of a couple of seconds to add. The question for you before buying this camera is, what are your needs for the use of the camera? I realize that this camera will be used for the outdoors near the water or snow. This camera should suffice the environment that has a lot of light. When it gets a little darker, you have to be close enough for the flash to work. If not, the picture will turn out grainy due to lack of light. Hope this helps in making a decision.Read full review
We just recieved our refurbished Olympus Stylus Tough 8000 12 megapixel. It has a solid feel when compared to the last several cameras we have owned. Al have ended up broken from use/abuse. This camera takes good (not great) pictures and I'm not afraid to take it with me where ever I go. After all, if you don't take your camera with you, you'll never get "the shot". For my use, this is a great solution. My kids love the underwater capabilities and it does take great pictures underwater.
I owned the older 770 & it lasted 3.5 years then died. I took it in the water a good half dozen times. It did lots of cold weather hiking in ME winters, beach trips in SC to canoeing in NC. It went hiking in Yosemite & NY. Biking in through torrential rains to lounging at the park. It was a good camera. Unfortunately, it didn't take good indoor pictures though. I just thought I'd share my experience as that model camera is very similar to the newer one. I thought it would be indestructible, but I guess the parts inside just wore out as they got older & now it won't focus. Cheers!
I just can't put it down! The fact that this camera is water & shock proof made it the perfect choice for me when I deployed overseas last year. I can't tell you how many times I've dropped it & it still works like a champ! I've also used it in ponds & fish tanks to take some spectacular pics! I loaned it to a buddy who went to Australia on his R&R and he came back with awesome snorkeling pics and video! Honestly, the only thing I found I didn't like about this camera, is that it doesn't have the "available light" setting which allows you to take pictures in very low lighting without a flash or alternate source of light. Awesome features it does have that my previous cameras did not... -shock proof up to 6ft (2m) -water proof up to 33ft (10m) which eliminates the need for expensive housings that can cost almost as much as the camera it goes to. -LED light that you can use to illuminate an area without a flash -tap functions, you just tap certain areas of the camera to operate certain functions. (Can be annoying if you accidentally turn this setting on) -large hyper crystal display -snow and beach setting to prevent over exposure from reflective surroundings -beauty setting You won't be disappointed with this camera, I think you'll love it just as much as I do. :) I have become hooked on Olympus cameras and I don't think I'll ever buy another brand.Read full review
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