Options in Digital Cameras for Diving

For years, serious underwater photographers had to choose between a waterproof housing for their 35mm SLR and an expensive underwater camera such as Nikon’s legendary Nikonos series. Thankfully, with the advent of advanced new technology, scuba divers and recreational snorkelers now have a much wider selection of scuba cameras in a larger range of price points. For the people who don’t have to have the depth requirements of a scuba camera, there are rugged models that can go to 30 or 40 feet deep. But that’s not very deep when you’re an open water, advanced or technical diver. So here’s a look at some of the options in digital cameras for diving to 100 feet or more.

Waterproof housing for digital SLR Getting a waterproof housing for your land-based digital SLR is still an option for serious photographers who like to have more manual options. But the cost for these underwater housings often may cost more than the camera itself. Underwater housings may be the best choice for professional photographers, but this is one of the most expensive ways to take images under the sea.

Camera Mask
Liquid Image has invented a line of camera masks for snorkeling and scuba diving. Depending on your preference in available masks, they are good for just a few feet under water to more than 100 feet and are capable of shooting either still photos or still photos and video on the pricier models.

Compact Waterproof Cameras
There are several camera manufacturers that make digital cameras for diving that cost a few hundred dollars and offer some manual options for photographers who want more control. Or you can choose cheaper compact cameras under $100 that don’t offer much control, but can go to at least 100 feet. This is the most inexpensive method to enjoy underwater photography.

Which underwater digital camera you choose is up to your needs and your budget, but you have more options today than ever before.