An underwater camera can be bought for several reasons. You may take rewarding pictures with it on your diving and snorkeling vacation. Or you can track fish by photographing with it before fishing in a certain area. Or you can take cute photos of your baby swimming underwater. Whatever may be the reason, you need to choose the right model for outstanding results. A good way is to check overview of best selling waterproof digital cameras, which gives you a thorough insight to make a more educated decision.
There are two major categories of underwater cameras – compact and dSLR (digital single lens reflex). You better learn about each of them so as to decide which one is the most suitable to your needs.
Compact or dSLR?
Both compact and dSLR cameras have their own pros and cons. A compact camera is perfect for beginners or those who are on a budget. This is because firstly compact cameras are super easy to use and secondly they are quite inexpensive as compared to dSLR cameras. Compact cameras are also great “point and shoot” cameras. But a dSLR camera gives you much better control over settings and functions. It also enables you to change lenses. However, an inexperienced user cannot handle a dSLR camera very efficiently. Therefore, depending upon your skill level and other needs, compare between the two and then decide which one to buy.
Compact Camera
As said earlier, a compact camera is extremely easy to use. You will get plenty of models and styles in compact cameras.
Pros
- Simplicity in usage, therefore good for beginners
- Small and lightweight
- Inexpensive
- Underwater video available (in many models)
- Wet lens adaptors available
Cons
- No or little control over aperture
- Low quality of imaging
- Slow speed
- High ISOs (loud noise)
- Small sensor
- No RAW shooting
- Delay in focus and shutter
dSLR Cameras
Let’s now see pros and cons of a dSLR camera.
Pros
Enhanced shooting ability due to:
- Larger sensor
- Control over ISO
- Choice of lenses including true fisheye and true macro
- Full framed shooting
- Faster shutter speeds and focusing
Cons
The detailed controls of dSLR cameras pose some cons. Other cons are:
- Large and heavy
- Normally expensive
- Needs underwater housing
- Detailed controls for ISO, aperture and shutter
- Accessory equipment is costly
Some Noted Brands
Once you decide on whether to buy a compact camera or a dSLR, you may look for various good brands of both of these types. Some of the reputed brands for a compact camera include Canon s 80, Canon Olympus Stylus Tough 8000, Powershot D 10, Panasonic Lumix DMC – Ts 1 and Fujifilm Finepix Z33 WP, while for dSLR camera, some excellent brands are Nikon D 5000, Olympus E 520, Nikon D 90, Canon 7 d and Canon T 2 i. Remember that you will need to purchase underwater housing for a dSLR camera.
Choosing Between New and Used
You also need to decide whether to buy a new camera or a used one. The basic advantage of a used camera is its low price. However you also face a risk of getting a damaged piece. On the other hand, a new piece has much less chance of defects, but its cost is significantly more.
Study and think over your needs first. And then you can decide which type and other factors in the camera will satisfy your needs. If you make a purchase after such thorough study, you will get your hands on your perfect underwater camera.