Great reply Dave. I've been using the Panasonic DMC FT4 waterproof. I got it mainly because it takes a really great shot (given enough light) on and off the water, and I cant always bring my SLR to some of the places I would like to. It is really handy not to need a housing, but holding it in one hand, it's like I suddenly have Parkinson's. Your idea of mounting it on the PDF is definitely worth exploring. The resistance of the bungee would give stability to the camera too.

I like the drama and compression that you got using that bit of zoom. I tend to go wide, looking for the arty composition, but those shots have inspired me to go closer. Great advertising for the Petrel Play.

I actually got onto Panasonic to suggest that they consider developing a wireless pad of some sort that could be strapped to a paddle, or ski pole etc, with 4 buttons for zoom, shutter and video. That way one could mount the camera on a helmet, perhaps on an arm so that the LCD is in sight, and shoot without needing to stop one's stroke. Also, head mounting would be much steadier. They were not interested, said that there would not be enough of a market to make it worthwhile pursuing. Talk about being out of touch.

I find that people are only interested in photos once they are off the water, and by the time I have set up the boat and deployed the camera, they have moved beyond more than one or two shots.

If one could head mount and shoot remotely, for stills, and even more so for video, one could stay in range more easily.

I know there is the go pro, but it is a bit limited for anything other than its defined purpose.

Anyway, thanks for the reply. Your shots gave me renewed determination.

Et