Graybeard
Longtime IIIf User
I've backpacked with cameras in the front range of the Rockies and, much more often, backpacked and canoe-camped with my cameras in the Adirondacks. My cameras were Leicas and Rollei's. With this as my background and experience, I offer these suggestions.
Whatever camera(s) you choose to bring, go to the supermarket and find plastic "tupperware" type containers for your camera(s) and film. When you are ten miles from shelter and it has been raining since dawn, at least your camera will be dry. You might also get a container for a spare (and dry) pair of socks (you can put the socks in the camera container, of course). Put the camera container on the top of your pack so that you can get to it easily. Keep it in your pack when you are not using it; it is protected there when you fall, slip, or land in a swamp (or around here, fall off the beaver dam you were trying to use as a bridge); you will need both hands quite often. If you use mosquito repellent, wipe you hands before you handle the photographic gear.
The most practical camera for backpacking is a Banack Leica with an Elmar. Barnack got it right the first time. Second best is an M Leica with a 40mm Summicron C. Third best is a M Leica with a 50mm. Don't buy anything new, go with what you have now. All of these options will serve you well.
Take at least two 36mm rolls of ASA400 film with you for every day of the trip. Shoot both rolls each day - you brought the photographic hardware to expose film. No extra credit for bringing home unexposed film. Next winter you will be pleased with all of the shots you took.
Good journey-
Whatever camera(s) you choose to bring, go to the supermarket and find plastic "tupperware" type containers for your camera(s) and film. When you are ten miles from shelter and it has been raining since dawn, at least your camera will be dry. You might also get a container for a spare (and dry) pair of socks (you can put the socks in the camera container, of course). Put the camera container on the top of your pack so that you can get to it easily. Keep it in your pack when you are not using it; it is protected there when you fall, slip, or land in a swamp (or around here, fall off the beaver dam you were trying to use as a bridge); you will need both hands quite often. If you use mosquito repellent, wipe you hands before you handle the photographic gear.
The most practical camera for backpacking is a Banack Leica with an Elmar. Barnack got it right the first time. Second best is an M Leica with a 40mm Summicron C. Third best is a M Leica with a 50mm. Don't buy anything new, go with what you have now. All of these options will serve you well.
Take at least two 36mm rolls of ASA400 film with you for every day of the trip. Shoot both rolls each day - you brought the photographic hardware to expose film. No extra credit for bringing home unexposed film. Next winter you will be pleased with all of the shots you took.
Good journey-
