Posts Tagged ‘camera case’
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) Next, the picture quality: Nowadays most cameras come with at least 5 megapixels of resolution and you may want to stick to that. Less resolution only represents a small saving, and much higher ones won’t make much of a difference for underwater cameras, except if you are a pro with special needs.
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) Features and extras: Check that the waterproof camera has all the things you need. Important ones for underwater use are shutter speed and burst picture mode, good lens aperture, autofocus, and a powerful flash.
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) Be aware of chemicals, they will also damage your camera’s waterproof junctions. And it’s not only nasty chemicals such as petrol. Chlorine will shorten the life if your camera, so keep it out of pools and only take it to natural freshwater or saltwater bodies. Use a cheap disposable waterproof “fun” camera to take pics of the kiddies in the pool.
Waterproof does not mean submersible in all conditions. Know your maximum depth rating and adhere to it strictly. And of course, to not submerse a camera if it’s just splash-proof. Also, avoid exposing your waterproof camera to direct sunlight and extremes of temperature.
9) Learn about your waterproof camera and its performance gradually. Don’t take it take it to a dive right away, experiment with it in a shallow place first. Read the manual and try out the effect of different picture options, and you will soon be shooting like a pro.