A Guide To Waterproof Cameras

  Making sure that you have a waterproof camera is a great idea both to make your photography capabilities more varied and flexible, especially when travelling, and also for specialist use, such as underwater or fishing photography.

When selecting a waterproof camera, you need to be aware that there are two options: self-contained compact devices, sometimes also with basic video capabilities, and single-lens reflex cameras, which are the professional option but are not waterproof per se but need a special housing.

A compact waterproof camera is great if you value portability and convenience over flexibility and advanced features. Nine out of ten non-professional users will find that a compact waterproof camera will cover their needs, and will benefit from added features such as video recording.

SLRs have many more advanced features, such as interchangeable lenses, through-the-lens viewing, sophisticated auto-focus, and better exposure control. There are no waterproof SLR cameras, so you will have to get a special underwater housing. If you are a professional or an advanced hobbyist, or if you already have SLR equipment and accessories, you will want to go for this solution for waterproof camera use.

You need to be aware of the important differences between taking pictures on land and in or under water with a waterproof camera. The differences are mainly due to the different medium water or air. Water is far denser than air and light travels differently through it. It is also full of small particles such as plankton or sand, which reflect light. When underwater, it is better tot take pictures using the digital LCD and not the viewfinder. This will allow you more control of the results.

If you intend to use a flash with your waterproof camera, you should be aware that underwater photography with a flash is very different than normal flash photography. Flashlight will not travel more than two or three meters in water, and colors will fade very quickly. Also, remember that an external flash will need an extra underwater housing to protect it.

If you are not using an external flash and are reliant on a small inbuilt flash, or on no flash at all, it is best to take underwater pictures when the sun it right over you, around midday. This way more light will get to your waterproof camera.

On the other hand, the best shots of marine wildlife are often taken at night, when most fish are more active. But for that, you will need to bring powerful lighting equipment with your waterproof camera, such as an underwater speedlight.

The best places to take pictures of sea life with a waterproof camera is near shore, in shallow water and especially near steep rocky shores, coral reefs and atolls, and at the estuary of rivers. Sandy beaches, on the other hand, are watery deserts and harbor much less marine life.

When caring for your waterproof camera, you need to be aware of the special needs of your equipment. The danger number one is dirt, and especially salt, clogging the gaskets of the waterproof camera or housing. Always clean your waterproof camera or housing with freshwater if you have been taking underwater pictures in the sea, and never let salt dry on the casing.

 Avoid cleaning the waterproof camera or housing with a pressure hose, as this may also damage the fittings. Use a soft cloth and fresh water only, also avoiding chemicals and petrol to clean your underwater casing or waterproof camera.