Review Olympus Stylus Tough-8000

We do our best to protect our cameras, cell phones, MP3 players, and other electronics from extreme weather conditions, drops, force, and water. It makes sense to do so, given that most of these gadgets don’t stand a chance against a bucket of water, accidental drop, or extreme temperatures. Realizing that life brings its fair share of bumps, spills, and accidents, Olympus has launched an entire line of digital cameras that are designed to take a licking and keep on ticking.

The Olympus Stylus Tough-8000 is the top model in Olympus' newly renamed "Tough" series of digital cameras that are made to survive the battles of everyday life. This camera is able to survive a drop from 6.6 feet, capture photos at up to 33 feet underwater, withstand 220 pounds of crushing force, and it can be used in temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 degrees Celsius). With these capabilities, it’s likely the photographer will surrender before this camera does.

Inside the Olympus Stylus Tough-8000's body, you’ll find a 12 megapixel image sensor and an Olympus-branded 3.6x optical zoom lens with a useful 28mm wide-angle view. The Stylus Tough-8000 is the first in the Tough lineup to include Dual Image Stabilization. Olympus’ Dual Image Stabilization system combines a mechanical Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization system with Digital Image Stabilization to help provide a powerful anti-blur solution and crisp, sharp photos. The Stylus Tough-8000 also features a unique tap control system and adds a new Beauty mode that will automatically touch up portraits.

Given the high ratings of TV shows such as Survivor as well as extreme sports in general, it makes sense that some consumers would demand a tough digital camera that can survive harsh treatment. As the most rugged model of the Tough lineup, the Stylus Tough-8000 promises to capture life’s memories even in the roughest of conditions. Read on as we take a closer look at how well the Stylus Tough-8000 captures life’s everyday moments and accidents.