GPS in the field

djklmnop · Jul 12, 2005

Does anyone here use a GPS on their travels or outings?

I usually mark a waypoint on my GPS when I take a photo. Then write down the coordinates in reference to the image so I can always go back if I ever need to. Mapquest and a few other map sites offers a, "search by Long/Latitude" so I can always plug in the coordinates to pull up a map of where I was at.

I was talking to Kev (kjsphoto) the other evening and he told me he went on a 4 hour drive and found a hot hot spot, and decided to return to it the following day to photograph it. The next day, he could not find that hot hot spot! So he's picking up a GPS now

If you don't have a GPS, I would highly recommend one.. It is literally a lifesaver!

I think the two most essential tool to have is a GPS and a 2-way FRS/GMRS walkie talkie (aside from cell phones which most people already have).

Any thoughts? Experiences?

Andy

Ed Sukach · Jul 12, 2005

I've just received a GPS - a Garmin eTrex Legend.
Now, all I have to do is learn how to use it ...

Robert Hall · Jul 12, 2005

I've used a GPS for some time now. I usually have it hooked up to my laptop and some Delorme mapping software. I have tracks of all my photo excursions. Since my cameras are not always carriable over long distances, I find I can find the spot being as close as the gps took me the first time.

There are may resources on the web, like off road books, geocaching web sites, and locals and their map points that make the use of a gps, well, very useful.

jp80874 · Jul 12, 2005

djklmnop said:
I think the two most essential tool to have is a GPS and a 2-way FRS/GMRS walkie talkie (aside from cell phones which most people already have).

Any thoughts? Experiences?

Andy

Andy,

Sounds like a good idea. Thanks. Could you say what brand and model of both tools you have, why you chose them over others and what you would recommend after some experience?

Thanks,

John Powers

Marc Leest · Jul 12, 2005

I plan to do the following:
I have a topological map (also loaded into my GPS). Then I plan a trip/hike with interesting viewpoints to photograph. I register the track while walking with the GPS.
The idea is to upload that trackfile to my webpage, so other people can download it and redo the trip.

M.
PS: Writing this @
UTM:
31 U 0665663
5644452

Peter Rockstroh · Jul 12, 2005

I use a GPS whenever I travel. The Garmin eTrex is a great choice. You can mark waypoints and routes. I use it routinely when I collect plants and animals to mark collecting spots, obscure dirt tracks in the middle of nowhere, restaurants, hotels et cetera. Unless you are planning to use the information for cartographic work, the eTrex is more than enough. Just check it periodically (against known coordenates), because I´ve seen at least two of their smallest models (forgot the name) that occasionally go bananas and display readings that are totally off (not good when you are in the middle of nowhere). Otherwise, a great tool.

djklmnop · Jul 12, 2005

jp80874 said:
Andy,

Sounds like a good idea. Thanks. Could you say what brand and model of both tools you have, why you chose them over others and what you would recommend after some experience?

Thanks,

John Powers

I own(ed) the Garmin Legend (monochrome) but it was taken when my home was burglarized. So now I am picking up a Garmin 60C. It is about $315 on amazon.com. You may want to pick up the Garmin 60CS instead, for about $30 more. The CS model has an Altimeter and a built in compass which will still work even if you don't have a lock on the satellites. This is valuable for those deep deep hikers . Also check out the Garmin etrex Legend Color, as it is more compact and affordable. The older Garmin Legend Monochrome works well, but is slow at redrawing the maps. Although still very useful for marking waypoints and simple navigation. I would not recommend it if you have bad eyes, you'll hate squinting at the small screen.

As for FRS/GMRS radios. I have the Midland GXT-400 which "supposively" has a 12 mile range (4 watts), providing its over water or a clear view. It is good for keeping in touch with the group if you decide to split up. If you're alone, the radio is pretty much useless unless someone nearby is using the same channel. Just be sure to buy the ones that takes AA batteries. AAA batteries don't last very long. And use rechargable NIMH batteries.

LINKS:

Garmin 60C Review
http://gpsinformation.us/gps60c/g60review.html

Garmin Legend / Vista Review
http://gpsinformation.us/vistacolor/etrexvistacolor.html

Helen B · Jul 12, 2005

I use an eTrex if on foot and a Garmin GPS III Plus on the handlebars of my bike. Both are extremely useful as an addition to, but not a replacement for, traditional navigation - I still want to know that I am not relying on GPS to get me to safety. The only real problems I have had are in jungle or forest when continuous signals are not available, and in places where I'm either not supposed to have GPS or the local police/military decide that I shouldn't have GPS.

Best,
Helen

mikewhi · Jul 12, 2005

True story. I took my GPS (Garmin) to Garapata Beach in Big Sur to mark the exact location where Brett Weston took his famous photo. The surf was a little rough, but the waves were far enough away that I wasn't too worried. I took out my GPS and topo map, looked down and started to mark the exact spot and the next thing I knew I was in salt water and foam up over my head - rogue wave! The water receeded, somehow not pulling me out into the ocean. I was totally drenched and every pocket and cavity was filled with sand. It almost pulled all the clothes off of me. The walk back to the car thru all the onlookers was not nice. My GPS, topo and (sadly) Pentax Digital spot meter were ruined. Garmin replaced the GPS for a modest fee but it cost a little for the spot meter to be fixed.

-Mike

Graeme Hird · Jul 12, 2005

Yep, I use my GPS for the very things you are mentioning. I also use it when I'm scouting for shots and find a good one for later. In my notebook, I make all sorts of notation, including the coordinates.

Tom Hoskinson · Jul 12, 2005

I've been using GPS units for many years. My current personal GPS unit is the Garmin eTrex. It goes everywhere with me.

Nige · Jul 12, 2005

I have one originally purchased for fishing (boat) then used for geocaching but it went haywire and I never got around to replacing it due to getting a quote to get it fixed which was as much as to buy a new one. Recently read a post on a geocaching site about one with similar problem... turns out there was an internal battery that had gone flat! $3 for a new battery and $5 for a set of special screwdrivers needed to open it up. I haven't used it for remembering photo spots but may do now it is working again.

Graeme Hird · Jul 12, 2005

Alright Nige, I'll bite: What's geocaching?

hortense · Jul 12, 2005

I use a Garmin GPS V along with DeLorme Maps. These maps show most back roads and contours as well map coordinates (Long/Lat and WGS84 datum). In the few case were more detail was needed I have used BLM maps.

Nige · Jul 12, 2005

Graeme Hird said:
Alright Nige, I'll bite: What's geocaching?

It's like a treasure hunt (except the 'treasure' is usually a nice place to visit). People hide caches (tupperware, ammo boxes) and upload the co-ordinates to a site (http://www.geocaching.com/ is the biggest) then everyone tries to find the cache using their GPS. There's many variations from simple to hard (can be the location is hard to get at, need to work out clues along the way, etc). When you find a cache you sign the log book to say you've been there, maybe trade an item in the cache and once home you can log it on the website (if you care about numbers and also to let other know the cache is still there).

That's a rough idea... go to the site for a full run down and to see the size of it, and see if you've got some caches nearby!

Just checked.. you've got a few near you!

Lee L · Jul 12, 2005

I use a Garmin GPSIII+ that I bought used for navigation (car, bicycle, and hiking) and recording good spots, and for locating potential good spots with mapping software from Oziexplorer and Delorme, and with imported aerial photos and topo maps. I have nature photographer friends who mark their spots with GPS as well, and have been guided to good spots by using their coordinates.

If you want both FRS/GMRS radio and GPS in one package, look at the Garmin Rhino series. If you're in a group, these also have the capacity to transmit current coordinates to others in your group who have a Rhino radio/GPS, with compass bearing and distance calculated and displayed.

Lee

Daniel Lawton · Jul 12, 2005

I recently purchased a Magellan Sport Trak Pro a little over a year ago. I decided to go with Magellan over Garmin's comparable model for one reason, its water proof. The Garmin's are great but as Mike said, you need to take special precautions if there is any chance of complete submersion. I had my Magellan stuffed in the cargo pocket of my trousers while wading through chest deep water in the Peruvian rainforest and the thing still functioned perfectly. After using it for over a year I haven't had any problems and recommend it highly. Garmin may make a waterproof model as well and if so it would be something to consider as well.

djklmnop · Jul 13, 2005

Daniel Lawton said:
I recently purchased a Magellan Sport Trak Pro a little over a year ago. I decided to go with Magellan over Garmin's comparable model for one reason, its water proof. The Garmin's are great but as Mike said, you need to take special precautions if there is any chance of complete submersion. I had my Magellan stuffed in the cargo pocket of my trousers while wading through chest deep water in the Peruvian rainforest and the thing still functioned perfectly. After using it for over a year I haven't had any problems and recommend it highly. Garmin may make a waterproof model as well and if so it would be something to consider as well.

Hmm.. I thought they all employed the standard water submission standard:

Garmin's website for 60CS: Waterproof to IEC 60529 IPX7 standards (can be submerged in one meter of water for up to 30 minutes)

SportsTrak Color:
SporTrak Color is sealed (to IEC-529 IPX7 specifications) and it floats!

Ed Sukach · Jul 13, 2005

From the Garmin Manual:

"The eTrex Legend is waterproof to IC Standard 529 IPX7. The internal electronics case can withstand immersion in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes although water will enter the battery compartment. Prolonged submergence can cause water damage to the unit. After submergence, be certain to remove the batteries and dry out the battery compartment before reuse."

Jeffrey A. Steinberg · Jul 13, 2005

djklmnop said:
Does anyone here use a GPS on their travels or outings?

I think the two most essential tool to have is a GPS and a 2-way FRS/GMRS walkie talkie (aside from cell phones which most people already have).

Any thoughts? Experiences?

Andy

I would suggest getting a ham radio (amateur radio) license. In the back woods, a small amateur portable walkie-talkie type radio uses a repeater system that is more likely to get you a signal when you are deep in the woods. GMRS radios have very short range in hilly areas.

Getting a ham license is easy. its a 27 question (out of 35) test and the training materials are on the web and in book stores.

Its the way to go from this ham/photographer. I have a Kenwood TD-7A that has a GPS input (Garmin GPS III is what I use) and using a technology called APRS, I can send my coordinates to a website that anyone can see.

Check this out (this is my car broadcasting):

http://www.findu.com/cgi-bin/find.cgi?call=k2mit-9

I suggest this for anyone going alone (not suggested) or in a small group hike. You can easily broadcast your position should you get hurt and other APRS-compatible radios can see a text message with your position. or the website is available with your last known broadcast.

--jeffrey, K2MIT

BruceN · Jul 13, 2005

I also use a Garmin Etrex Legend. I've fallen in or dropped it in the water numerous times while backpacking, geocaching and photo-trekking and it's never even hiccupped. Geocaching is pretty neat - it's gotten me to dozens of great photo sites that I never would have known existed otherwise.

Bruce

modafoto · Jul 13, 2005

Hello guys and girls!

This is an ANALOG site...dig out your compass and ol' maps

Jeffrey A. Steinberg · Jul 13, 2005

modafoto said:
Hello guys and girls!

This is an ANALOG site...dig out your compass and ol' maps

this coming from a guy who's avatar is a digital-reading light meter!

;-)

Its an analog photo group, anything else can be digital in my humbe opinion.

Sorry, couldn't resist those two comments.

modafoto · Jul 14, 2005

Jeffrey A. Steinberg said:
this coming from a guy who's avatar is a digital-reading light meter!

;-)

Its an analog photo group, anything else can be digital in my humbe opinion.

Sorry, couldn't resist those two comments.

:rolleyes:

You got me there

Yes, anything can be digital (I like GPS, too)...

photomc · Jul 14, 2005

modafoto said:
Hello guys and girls!

This is an ANALOG site...dig out your compass and ol' maps

Well, I was thinking the same thing...still love maps and compass..but also think the GPS are nice too! Just can't figure out a reason to drop the $$ on one..after all that could a be a lot of film there...

But if I everyone keeps posting, maybe I will find a Good reason to get one

GPS in the field

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