Waterproof Camera Basics And Maintenance
Whether you want a waterproof camera for general photography, for occasional snorkeling or diving, or for more specialized applications such as fishing photography, you should know about the main camera options.
There are two main waterproof camera alternatives. For the vast majority of people, a compact camera that is inherently waterproof will do. For advanced hobbyists and professionals, a digital SLR camera with underwater housing will be necessary.
A compact waterproof camera will be more than enough for most users, Very similar to normal digital cameras, all the gaskets of these gadgets are specially built, so you can use the same camera every day and also when you go swimming, diving or boating.
SLRs have many more advanced features, such as interchangeable lenses, through-the-lens viewing, sophisticated auto-focus, and better exposure control. There are no waterproof SLR cameras, so you will have to get a special underwater housing. If you are a professional or an advanced hobbyist, or if you already have SLR equipment and accessories, you will want to go for this solution for waterproof camera use.
Once you have decided on what waterproof camera is right for you, you need to acquaint yourself with the differences between underwater photography and normal picture-taking. Water is a different medium than air, so make sure to read up on its photography peculiarities, and to experiment with your waterproof camera.
If you intent to use a flash with your waterproof camera, you should be aware that underwater photography with a flash is very different than normal flash photography. Flashlight will not travel more than two or three meters in water, and colors will fade very quickly. Also, remember that an external flash will need an extra underwater housing to protect it.
If you are not using a n external flash and are reliant on a small inbuilt flash, or on no flash at all, it is best to take underwater pictures when the sun it right over you, around midday. This way more light will get to your waterproof camera.
If you have powerful lighting equipment, you can also use your waterproof camera at night. You will be able to obtain some eerie shots and take pictures of fish not usually seen during the day.
The best places to take pictures of sea life with a waterproof camera is near shore, in shallow water and especially near steep rocky shores, coral reefs and atolls, and at the estuary of rivers. Sandy beaches, on the other hand, are watery deserts and harbor much less marine life.
When caring for your waterproof camera, you need to be aware of the special needs of your equipment. The danger number one is dirt, and especially salt, clogging the gaskets of the waterproof camera or housing. Always clean your waterproof camera or housing with freshwater if you have been taking underwater pictures in the sea, and never let salt dry on the casing.
Don't use any chemicals to clean a waterproof camera or underwater camera housing, freshwater applied with a damp cloth is best and will ensure the long life of your equipment.
Whether you want to learn about the latest waterproof cameras or if you just need information on the latest accessories, here is the place to start: WaterproofCameraWorld.com covers all your underwater photography needs, with tips and information. Just follow a link to find out more!
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