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 will cover most people's needs, and will also easily fir into a pocket. Unless you are a serious hobbyist, and especially if you are looking to get a new camera, you are better off with one of these versatile all-in-one packages.
But maybe you want more features, or you already have an SLR camera. In this case, it is better to waterproof your camera with an underwater housing, being able to take advantage of all the benefits of an SLR camera, such as interchangeable lenses, filters and extra capabilities.
There are huge differences in normal photography technique and underwater photography, mostly due to the qualities of light in water. Diffraction, for one, means that you should get an underwater camera with a wide lens to compensate this phenomenon. Also, most of the pictures that you will take will be close-ups so a good macro function is a great thing to have.
You will also use flashlights quite often, whether the inbuilt one on your waterproof camera or an external one. Without a flashlight, underwater pictures will tend to have little color or contrast. If you opt for a more powerful external flashlight, it will need to be built for underwater use or you will need an appropriate underwater housing for it as well.
To take underwater shots with a waterproof camera but without using a flashlight a lot, you will need to shoot when the sun is at its most luminous, around midday, and put the sunlight between you and your target.
Night shots are very good to catch the more elusive marine animals, but your waterproof camera will have to be equipped with some extra lights specific to the photography situation.
Whatever the hour of your picture-taking, it is best to use your waterproof camera in shallow and rocky shores, or near coral reefs. These give best results and will provide you with lots of interesting subjects. Of course, you could also take pictures of your kids near the beach.
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. - 15437
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 will cover most people's needs, and will also easily fir into a pocket. Unless you are a serious hobbyist, and especially if you are looking to get a new camera, you are better off with one of these versatile all-in-one packages.
But maybe you want more features, or you already have an SLR camera. In this case, it is better to waterproof your camera with an underwater housing, being able to take advantage of all the benefits of an SLR camera, such as interchangeable lenses, filters and extra capabilities.
There are huge differences in normal photography technique and underwater photography, mostly due to the qualities of light in water. Diffraction, for one, means that you should get an underwater camera with a wide lens to compensate this phenomenon. Also, most of the pictures that you will take will be close-ups so a good macro function is a great thing to have.
You will also use flashlights quite often, whether the inbuilt one on your waterproof camera or an external one. Without a flashlight, underwater pictures will tend to have little color or contrast. If you opt for a more powerful external flashlight, it will need to be built for underwater use or you will need an appropriate underwater housing for it as well.
To take underwater shots with a waterproof camera but without using a flashlight a lot, you will need to shoot when the sun is at its most luminous, around midday, and put the sunlight between you and your target.
Night shots are very good to catch the more elusive marine animals, but your waterproof camera will have to be equipped with some extra lights specific to the photography situation.
Whatever the hour of your picture-taking, it is best to use your waterproof camera in shallow and rocky shores, or near coral reefs. These give best results and will provide you with lots of interesting subjects. Of course, you could also take pictures of your kids near the beach.
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. - 15437
About the Author:
Whether you want to learn about the latest waterproof cameras or if you just need information on the latest accessories, here is the place to start: WaterproofCameraWorld.com covers all your underwater photography needs, with tips and information. Just follow a link to find out more!
