Originally Posted by
Happy Feet
I agree a video camera is only as valuable as the desire to edit that video but the counter argument is that (for me) it expands the touring experience beyond the immediate.
Learning to edit and basic film making techniques is like another hobby that I can flex into my outdoor pursuits so I get a 2 for 1 effect. I enjoy the outdoor event and back home can relive it through working my other hobby (film making). It's just like drawing or painting.
I think it helps if one is also a natural story teller. I find camera or video to be a portal through which I view a adventure in a way that thinks; how can I show someone this? That doesn't diminish the experience from my POV as I am switched on to constantly observe my surroundings looking for a beautiful / interesting view or action sequence. As a soloist maybe this provides a meta companion with which to share the experience.
For me it's worth it just to have some kind of point-and-shoot camera handy. I have my phone, but there are multiple steps to get from the camera being in my pocket or on my handlebars to being unlocked, with the app open, and ready to take a photo, and it's awkward to hold and take photos one-handed. Action camera stays on my handlebars. Turn it on, press the button. Plus it fits nicely in my hand. I can hold it up, easily aim it, and even take photos behind my back, which I often do if I want to catch my traveling companions in a riding shot. I rarely use the video function at all. But there are certainly days when I'd have few or no photos if not for the action camera. It's the only one that I trust to keep out in the rain.