Desert / Sandy environment questions

[Je-C]

I'm deployed to the mideast and was considering getting a nice camera, but we occasionally get sand storms, and even on a clear day I watch my gameboy advance slowly get specks of sand all over it with the slightest breeze. Of course, I wouldn't be changing lenses anyone but indoors where the wind is minimal. My question would be, I guess, what someone could do if they wanted to bring a high-quality camera to the desert? Or is the best suggestion not to?

 

[cmptrdewd]

Hey, what branch are you?
Are you in Iraq?
My dad is in the army and is in Iraq.

My dad wouldn't even bring CD's because of how fine the sand is.
So if i were you i would use what you got and get a better camera when you get back.

Cmptrdewd

 

[Rhubarb]

^ I have to kind of agree with that advice.

Use a nice cheapy so if it gets trashed it doesn't matter so much.

 

[triggerhappy]

I bought an expensive camera because I want to take great pictures. If I'm so afraid of breaking it that I never take it to the interesting photo sites, there wasn't much point in spending all that money.

To give you an example, I had to wade waist deep in sea water to take this picture: http://www.pbase.com/sam_blackie/image/34227352

So my advice is to take a decent one with you. Make sure its insured so you can get a new one if it gets damaged. Be careful and take sensible precautions, such as getting a UV filter to protect the lenses.

Most importantly.... show us your photos when you get back