A thermal imaging camera having improved durability and ergonomic features including generally a seamless housing encompassing a thermal imaging core, a first handle, and a battery compartment. The housing is preferably positioned at a first end of the first handle and the battery compartment is positioned at the opposite end of the first handle. By positioning the first handle intermediate between the housing and the battery compartment, the center of gravity of the thermal imaging camera coincides generally with the handle when the thermal imaging camera is in use, that is when batteries are present within the battery compartment. The camera can also include a second handle positioned between the housing and the battery compartment, the second handle is preferably oriented generally parallel to and spaced apart from the first handle to facilitate passing of the thermal imaging camera between users. The camera also has improved water resistance, shock-resistance and other operational features.