The basics of underwater cameras are simple: nearly any smartphone or camera can be used in the right underwater housing, and lighting is used to bring out colors in deep water.
Underwater Cameras
With the use of a housing, nearly any camera can be used for snorkeling or diving. DSLRs and mirrorless are popular for image quality while GoPros and compacts are just as popular for their small size and simple operation. While quality continues improving amongst all types of cameras, you can worry less about sacrificing image quality when choosing lightweight, travel-friendly options over heavy, expensive equipment.
Lights and Strobes
No matter what camera you choose, be aware that natural light disappears as you go deeper. This is a main difference between taking pictures snorkeling versus diving. When natural light disappears, strobes or lights are used to illuminate subjects and bring out their true colors. Underwater strobes are used for photography while continuous lights are used for video, and in some cases, photography.
Manufacturers design underwater camera housings and lights for high-pressure environments. Many support dives up to 100 meters or more. Quality housings also provide access to virtually all camera controls and some even offer the ability to zoom or use various lenses.
Do I need Classes
Classes offer incredible benefits, especially if you’re new or want to refine your skills. Taking pictures in water requires unique techniques to address issues like color loss, lighting, and movement, which differ greatly from land photography. In classes, you will learn essential skills like marine life behavior, composing photos, and adjusting white balance or using lighting to manage colors. Joe also covers maintenance to protect your camera gear, ensuring it functions well over time.
Contact
Contact Joe anytime to discuss underwater photography. Since 1996, he has dove in more than a dozen countries and used film, video, and digital cameras. He started out using a homemade video camera housing he built in his garage. Today he uses micro 4/3 mirrorless and a GoPro for lightweight travel without sacrificing image quality.
