Waterproof Cameras: Pro Slrs And Hobbyist Compacts Defined In 9 Tips

Posted on | April 29, 2009 | No Comments

Looking to buy a camera that you can take underwater without a special housing? Learn more about the options and pitfalls of underwater cameras by reading the following tips:

 

1) First of all, the fastenings: Your camera is only just as waterproof as its gaskets, so check these regularly, especially the ones places that are opened more frequently, such as memory card slots and buttons.

 

2) Quality of the pictures: a decent resolution is a must for underwater photography, especially if you may want to zoom up details of shots once the shot has been taken. Five megapixel is good for compact waterproof cameras, and eight is adequate for SLR’s.

 

3) Looks and bulkiness. These are important, as you need to make sure that the device will fit your hand and your swimming or diving style. Some cameras come in bright colors to aid visibility, but not everyone likes them. If there is something that you miss, shop around some more and you may just find what you are seeking.

 

4) Industry certifications: Often overlooked by people when choosing a waterproof camera, these give you peace of mind about the standard that your camera was built to. You should look at Japanese Industry Standard designation Waterproof 8 for a camera that you can take on shallow dives, up to 5 meters.

 

5) Characteristics: make sure that you have all the extra capabilities that you will need. Whether it’s a lens mount for filters, extra flash sockets, or simply different burst modes and automatic settings, check for them and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance at the shop.

 

6) You bought a waterproof camera? Great! Now clean it. Regularly. Be especially vigilant around dust, tar and sand, these will destroy your gaskets and water WILL leak into your device, rending it useless. Or your lens will jam. A well maintained camera is a long-lived camera.

 

7) Avoid exposing your waterproof camera to harmful chemicals, This includes Chlorine, so avoid using it in artificial pools. The sea, rivers and lakes are much safer environments for underwater photography equipment.

 

make sure that you do not end up with a splash-proof camera, instead of a waterproof one. These are not intended to be submersed, and will assuredly leak and then break if you do put them under water.

 

9) Make sure that you take adequate time to read your camera manual and read all there is to know about your waterproof camera’s features, program modes, and uses. Don’t rush into using it and you will be better in using it after a while.

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photography

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