2017 Thru-hike. What Camera?

[Random Guy Esq.]

Hello experts!

I'm off on a month long thru-hike of the John Muir Trail, California, in the summer of 2017. Obviously, I'd like to try and get some shots of the beautiful landscape on the way, including starscapes, as well as general travel-log type photos of the trip. I've more or less ruled out a DSLR, as even the light ones just weigh more than I'm willing to carry, all things considered.

So what are my options? I'm guessing a good quality compact P&S with a wide enough attached lens (fixed or zoom) could work? Or would I be better off going for a compact mirrorless with a wide lens, thus giving myself the option to buy more lenses later when I want to expand my photography?

So basically, I want good IQ from a light, compact camera that will allow me to shoot landscape/starscape as well as general travel shots. Ease of use would be nice and I wouldn't complain if it could do decent quality video. Total budget would be in or around the £1000 mark, though less would be better.

Cheers!

 

[Random Guy Esq.]

Thanks guys, I'll take a look through the µ43 thread.

@D.P. - yeah, can't wait!

 

[Random Guy Esq.]

Cheers for the input uv. Had been looking at EM-5 as it happens!

Tripod wise, I'm thinking of going with Trailpix or an equivalent - trekking poles are pretty much essential on the JMT, and it would save a lot of weight using it instead of a good dedicated tripod.

Edit: Forgot to say, I don't like that they can't go very low, so I may have a look at other options too.

 

[Random Guy Esq.]

What is your budget?

Fuji X-E2 / X-T10 / X-T1 and the "kit" 18-55mm zoom lens would be a great and reasonably compact solution.

Get at least two extra batteries off of Amazon.

Thanks for the recommendations! I mentioned budget in the OP; circa £1K.