Rec and Sports

Waterproof Camera Usage Warnings

A waterproof camera? Are you an interested photography hobbyist or a seasoned pro? In both cases, your photography will benefit a lot from underwater picture-taking, but you need to be aware of the differences in needs and available equipment.

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.

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.

Once you have decided on what waterproof camera is right for you, you need to acquaint yourself with the differences between underwater photography and normal picture-taking. Water is a different medium than air, so make sure to read up on its photography peculiarities, and to experiment with your waterproof camera.

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.

If you are not using a n 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.

Waterproof camera maintenance is important to prolong your equipment’s life. Make sure that not sand gets in to the camera workings, and rinse it with freshwater after use. Dry salt is the waterproof camera’s main enemy.

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.