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Underwater Camera Buying Guide

Underwater photography  seems to have an allure about it that photography above the water does not.  Friends may get bored looking through the photo album  from your last holiday, but when you get to the underwater pictures,  they are suddenly enthralled.  Think about it; we are all intrigued by the unknown or by things that we can't see everyday.  Underwater photos  are just that: something rare and special that is brought up to the surface for sharing.  So whether it be a disposable camera  in the pool or a high-tech digital  in the sea, let us help you capture your best shot!

What's the point?

There are three different ways to classify an underwater camera.   Narrow down your purpose and then it will be easier to find a product to meet your photography needs. 

  • SURFACE PHOTOGRAPHY: This involves shooting pictures close to the water's surface.  Shots of the kids swimming,  the family canoe  trip, or just a close encounter with waterfalls encompass this category.  Here the camera isn't actually underwater, but still runs the risk of getting wet.  Some professional digital cameras  and even some 35mms  are built with features to protect them from these elements; however, most SLRs  and prosumer cameras  are not protected without spending extra money on a custom underwater camera case. 
  • LOW DEPTH UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHY: This photography takes place in the shallows, at a depth of less than 10 metres (33 feet).  Most compact underwater cameras  experience problems below this level due to lack of light, flash, and pressure. 

Safety First!

Remember that eventually you will have to come up for air.  Make the most of your time underwater, but don't become so engrossed in photography that you overlook your own safety.  Be knowledgeable about safety procedures  and the basics of swimming.  Divers  should have the proper certification.  Take the time to brush up on your swimming safety  before going below the surface.   

Underwater Cameras: Our Picks

Know that underwater photography does have its limitations.  Natural light, communication, and visibility are limited, and so are the choices in products.   

Disposables

Kodak Ultra Aquatic 

Fujifilm Quicksnap Marine 

Agfa LeBox Ocean 

Kodak MAX Water and Sport 

Underwater Cameras

Sea & Sea DX-1G 

10 megapixels, a polycarbonate underwater housing case, and advanced features for serious photography underwater. 

Intova IC-700 

7 megapixels and affordable, this camera reaches a depth of 180 feet.   The built-in flash works up to 5 feet underwater.

Sealife SL320 Reef Master 

This compact mini is lightweight and user-friendly in 6 megapixels.  With quick shutter speed range and reaching depths of 130 feet, this camera has a variety of underwater exposure methods.

VU-Point DC-WPC-ST531TBLK-VP 

At 5 megapixels with video capture, this digital camera goes to depths of 50 feet and is more affordable than other underwater cameras.

Waterproof Camera Cases

Canon Waterproof Camera Case 

Find Canon cases compatible with a variety of Canon digital camera  models; waterproof to 130 feet.

Sony Sports Pack 

Compatible with select Sony camcorders ; can be taken to depths of 16 feet for underwater video.  

Sony Sport Jacket 

Compatible with Sony Cyber-shot cameras ; water-resistant to 9 feet.

Ewa-Marine Underwater Camera Case 

Compatible with a variety of sizes and models of cameras; reaches depths of 33 feet. 

Related Guides

Digital Cameras

35mm Cameras

Travel

Scuba Lessons

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