Finally, A Cheap Underwater Camera

Posted by Dave Jackson on August 5th, 2008 at 10:45pm

Since getting my first digital camera, and later, my first video camera, I have wanted to push the envelope of what these cameras can do, and where they can go. I have taken them on roller coasters, mounted them on my motorcycle, pulled out the IR filter and taken infrared photos. SeaLife camera models include a variety of digital cameras to choose from, as well as a film camera. You can also choose to add a range of accessories like flashes, lenses and cases to your Sea Life camera. Many people prefer the simple ease and convenience of an underwater digital camera that can operate manually.

In an environment where the warmer colors start fading past depths of 30 feet, underwater photographers need to supply their own light source. On-camera flashes are woefully underpowered for most underwater use and their close proximity to the axis of the lens creates what’s called “backscatter.”  Backscatter is a condition where suspended particles in the water are lit by the flash, or strobes, as we prefer to call them, and these particles reflect the light back to the camera. They may be people who work with waterways and work with the environment. Either way, the underwater camera that is needed will be one that can take the pressure of the water.

A waterproof single use model is perfect for candid photos of your friends playing around in the pool. You can use them for interesting results above the water or under it. I never got one single drop of water on my camera. Here’s their website http://www.dicapac.com/new_eng/02_products/sub01.html I purchased mine from ebay for about AU$40ish.

The only difference between this $12 waterproof single-use camera and a $99 scuba housing for “on-land” single-use cameras is an O-ring that lets the housing go deeper. For example, you may just want to take pictures on a single scuba diving vacation, for which you may not to want to rent or buy an expensive piece of equipment. So use a cheap disposable underwater camera, take your pictures, and then, as the name suggests, just dispose of them.

Tags: Camera Flashes, Camera Models, Candid Photos, Close Proximity, Digital Cameras, Disposable Underwater Camera, Drop Of Water, Film Camera, Ir Filter, O Ring, Sea Life, Single Use Cameras, Strobes, Underwater Digital Camera, Underwater Photographers

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