As I'm sure most of you know from my other posts I'm new to backpacking. One of the many reason I was attracted to backpacking was the photography opportunity. I do photography mainly as a hobby. I was wondering if anyone had good avise for carrying thier SLR on the trail? It's not a small camera so I'm debateing on the best way to pack it. I was considering getting a pelican water/air tight case that would be big enough just to fit the camera and lens. Do any of you guys have any other ideas/methods for packing out your camera?

I also planned on packing out a tripod but it's added weight I'd really like to do without. I've heard that some of the trekking poles have a camera attachment when the hadle is unscrewed and it can be used as a bipod. Have any of you had any experience with one?

Thanks again for being so helpful with all the questions I've had!