To the BEACH!!!

[StellaBean]

But do I take my camera????

I can't decide if I should take it. we're going to rehoboth next week. I'm not a beach gal, but my kids are so there will be daily visits to the actual sand. I even bought a shoulder bag lunch bag (insulated, padded) so I would have something to carry my beloved 40D in.

I'm thinking about the security issue: leaving the bag in the room, motel lock box, or carrying it with me at all times....

I'm thinking about the cleanliness issue: getting sand where sand don't belong.. (*cleaning it out of my daughters bathing suit will be enough of a chore)

I'm just trying to weigh the pros and cons.

advice?

[In2Photos]

I always take my camera to the beach. I would never think to leave it at home. The photos far outweigh the risks. That being said, if you are careful with your camera you shouldn't have a problem. I wipe my camera down after each day and after 3 years of beach trips I have yet to encounter a problem.

[PhotosGuy]

leaving the bag in the room Never! motel lock box, or carrying it with me at all times I've done both without problems.
Be very careful if you decide to change lenses with the wind blowing.

[birdfromboat]

nothing worse than salt spray for metal or glass objects, sand is easy, its just like really big dust that can't get where dust can, but spray and salt air humidity are killers. I take mine in a pelican case and pack it with a dessicant gel pack, and never change lenses in the salty air. It took me about three cleanings to feal better about a rebel G I had years ago that got salt stains on the mirror and focus glass/prism. I just couldn't get it clean again. Other than that, beach shots are great.