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Tuesday, February 24, 2009

A Guide To Waterproof Cameras

By Randy Rushmore

Making sure that you have a waterproof camera is a great idea both to make your photography capabilities more varied and flexible, especially when travelling, and also for specialist use, such as underwater or fishing photography.

There are two main kinds of waterproof camera equipment. Most users will tend to get a compact underwater camera with a waterproof casing, for all uses and possibly also to take brief videos. More advanced users will prefer an SLR, or single lens reflex camera. These are not waterproof, but you can get a special waterproof housing.

A compact waterproof camera will cover most people's needs, and will also easily fir into a pocket. Unless you are a serious hobbyist, and especially if you are looking to get a new camera, you are better off with one of these versatile all-in-one packages.

But maybe you want more features, or you already have an SLR camera. In this case, it is better to waterproof your camera with an underwater housing, being able to take advantage of all the benefits of an SLR camera, such as interchangeable lenses, filters and extra capabilities.

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.

Flashlights, whether in-built or external, are usually a mainstay of waterproof camera use due to the reduce lighting conditions under water. External flashlights are best if you can bear the bulk, but remember that you either need a special one for underwater use, or an additional waterproof housing.

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.

Whatever the hour of your picture-taking, it is best to use your waterproof camera in shallow and rocky shores, or near coral reefs. These give best results and will provide you with lots of interesting subjects. Of course, you could also take pictures of your kids near the beach.

You should also acquaint yourself with the basic rules of maintenance for underwater photography equipment, to make sure that you will enjoy your waterproof camera for a long time. Always wash saltwater off with freshwater, for instance as salt reissue can damage waterproof gaskets and o-rings.

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.

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