While experiencing nature first hand can give you memories to last a lifetime, the right camera can get you places where you physically cannot go. Your smartphone may be sufficient when you travel, but you could include better versatility by choosing the right camera for the location. What kind of cameras can give you a more intricate feel of the world around you?

Trail Camera

While these cameras are heavily used by game hunters, the trail camera can offer a glimpse into the natural settings of passing animals. These units are motion-sensing and often come with night vision to catch nature off-guard. They can be attached to trees or used against other surfaces offering a non-intrusive method of filming wild animals within their habitats. For the technologically inclined, some are even developed with controlling apps from your smartphone.

Bird Box

By setting up a bird box, you can encourage some forms of avian life to nest within the structure which is armed with a camera. These units essentially operate as the traditional bird house with the exception of adding photography. Like the trail camera mentioned earlier, these devices give you a natural view of wildlife without accidentally intervening in the behaviors of these creatures. Adaptations can be easily made for those creating bat boxes as well.

Personal Camera

There are several small cameras you can put onto yourself in order to film everything in front of you. According to Dana Wollman of Engadget, clip on cameras are able to attach to lapels and shirt collars taking images every 30 seconds. Other personal cameras including sunglass micro cameras, helmet units and vehicle mounting devices that provide a point-of-view display of the experience.

Binocular Devices

For those that like to zoom in and close to wildlife, binocular cameras can give an impressive view without the animals knowing you’re in the area. These devices use optics to record everything you see through the eyepiece giving you an incredible range for viewing animals from a safe distance. More elaborate devices are also capable of recording HD-style video of the experience. These are often developed with sufficient storage for several hours worth of video or thousands of snapshots.

Waterproof Functionality

Whether diving into the ocean to capture exotic fish on camera or in need of a device that can get soaked by rain, the waterproof unit is quite versatile. These devices can come in the size of a smartphone or using larger plastic enclosures to protect the electronics. As these come in a wide range of styles and features, prices could fluctuate greatly from as low as $30 up to the $900 professional units.

Experiencing the outdoors can be more involved than merely walking through the park. It can be an experience that can be had regardless of the seasons. According to Ute Sonnenberg of Roho Ya Chui, the off seasons in Africa can provide a completely unique experience for witnessing wildlife and nature. Pick the best camera for your outdoor excursion and get images you never thought were possible.