If your old camera is too big to carry around, you should get a nice little new one. These days, cameras are all pretty good. I like the Canon compact cameras. They have a sweet feature that detects faces. So if there are different light levels in your shot, it will prioritize the people. And the screen will look like what the Terminator sees.

Cameras are typically sold in a package with some extras like SD cards and cases. I think they are a pretty good deal. When you checkout, be sure to write in the Special Instructions box which package you want, if any. Not sure where the message box is? Check this field guide – it is number 8.

The Canon Ixus 80 for about 1100rmb.

The Canon Ixus 970 for 1490rmb.

Your travel kit will get much cooler with an old Russian camera like this one. This looks like it belongs in James Bond’s James Bond’s enemy’s briefcase, right next to a gun and a pile of passports.  The photos you take with it will probably turn out slightly messed up in a slightly awesome way. 

Get yourself a antique SMENA light meter for some extra authenticity. The light meter comes with its original leather-looking case. These are very cool little gadgets with some Cold War mystique.  

China is a culture that appreciates its old stuff selectively. While Chinese people go crazy over old Tang-dynasty style furniture, these kind of 60’s-era items seem to be in their blind spot. As a result, Taobao has fantastic antiques at awesome prices.

Only one of each of these is available. So if you do buy them, let us know in the comments.

Antique Russian Smena Camera – 180rmb

Antique Smena Light Meter – 330rmb