Camera for underwater photography: what is it called and how to choose the right one

The camera for underwater photography does not have a special name, but differs in design, body material and flash intensity. This device works well at different depths, typically up to 15 m. In addition, it provides high-quality shooting even in the absence of light or in muddy water. How to choose the right camera and which models you should pay attention to is described in detail in this material.

Main selection criteria

An underwater camera, unlike a regular one, must have several features. They are related both to the reliability of the case and to the characteristics of the camera itself. Therefore, when choosing a protected camera, you need to pay attention to several criteria at once.

Immersion depth

Different models allow you to work at different depths. Each device is equipped with a waterproof housing. But designs can differ greatly in reliability - one camera for underwater photography can withstand strong pressure, another - only light pressure. This parameter is characterized by the depth of immersion. The higher quality the case, the more the device costs.

Presence of flash

An underwater camera, even with very high-quality optics, will not give good pictures if it does not have a bright enough flash. This manifests itself even at a shallow depth of 3 m. It is important to ensure that the device is equipped with a high-quality diode. Otherwise, the pictures will be faded even in clear water.

An underwater camera must have a powerful off-camera flash. It is these devices that allow you to take high-quality photographs - regular and panoramic. If you plan to work in remote places, it is better to buy a built-in flash that runs on a separate battery.

Lens type

A waterproof camera should ideally have an interchangeable lens with attachments or screw-on lenses. Moreover, you can take them off and put them on directly during underwater shooting. Lenses should have different focal lengths (optimal range 24-29 mm, maximum value 35 mm), so you can get the highest quality, detailed pictures. The type of lens should also be taken into account - it is better to choose a classic rectangular model.

Autonomy

The rating of waterproof cameras is usually topped by models that have a high battery life. It directly depends on the battery capacity: the battery should be enough for 150-200 photos on one full charge.

In this case, the duration of the dive should also be taken into account - on average it is 20-30 minutes, less often up to 1 hour. It is by this parameter that you can determine the name of the camera that films underwater. The operating time of conventional devices is much longer.

Image Stabilizer

If you are choosing a high-quality camera that shoots underwater, you should only consider models with image stabilization. This is a very important detail that allows you to get pictures with perfect clarity. Since the focal length is constantly changing, in the absence of a stabilizer, the camera underwater will most likely produce blurry images. And even high-quality optics will not save you in this regard.

Camera quality

Last on the list, but not the least important criterion is the quality of the camera. It is assessed in different indicators, the most significant role is played by resolution, i.e. number of megapixels. It is clear that the more of them, the better - a diving camera will take good pictures only with a camera of 12 megapixels or more.

Special attention should be paid to the presence of optical zoom - preferably 4x. It is worth considering that a water camera can also be used for underwater photography. Standard video quality corresponds to 1920*1080 pixels.

Top 5 best underwater cameras

After reviewing the key characteristics, you can familiarize yourself with specific models. If we consider the best cameras for underwater photography in terms of price and quality ratio, we can make the following rating.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT5

This is an underwater vehicle that operates at a depth of up to 13 m. The noticeable orange body will help you not to lose the device. The assembly is very reliable, with 5 degrees of protection. If we talk about the name of a camera for shooting underwater, this model can be classified not as a camera, but as a camera. It allows you to take pictures and videos, the main characteristics are as follows:

• camera quality 16 MP;
• optical zoom 4.6x;
• video quality 1920*1080 pixels;
• weight 188 g.

Fujifilm FinePix XP200

This is a rugged device with a plastic, waterproof casing. This model is inexpensive and resembles a disposable underwater camera. But unlike it, the FinePix XP200 is designed for constant use, since its body is equipped with rubber inserts. They ensure the tightness of the housing with immersion to a depth of up to 15 m.

Thanks to this, the waterproof camera is suitable for underwater photography, as well as for obtaining high-quality video. The model has the following technical characteristics:

• camera resolution 16.4 million;
• focal range from 28 to 140 mm;
• weight 212 g;
• optical zoom 5x;
• video quality 1920*1080 pixels.

Nikon Coolpix AW120

Among the different models, mention should be made of the representative of the famous Nikon brand. It has a high degree of protection against water and dust. The body has a special grooved surface that provides excellent friction. But even if the device is dropped from a height of 2 m, the structure will not be damaged.

Nikon for underwater photography is characterized by the following parameters:

• camera quality 16 MP;
• optical zoom 5x;
• focal range from 24 to 120 mm;
• video quality 1920*1080 pixels;
• operating time up to 48 hours;
• weight 215 g.

Olympus Stylus Tough TG-4

Another high-quality camera for shooting in water. Prized by amateurs and professionals for its highly detailed images. The case is durable and is not afraid of impacts and falls from human height. Allows shooting at depths of up to 15 m.

Main parameters:

• resolution 16 million;
• weight 247 g;
• optical zoom 4x;
• video quality 1920*1080 pixels.
• focal range from 25 to 100 mm.

Pentax WG-3

Compact device in a thick and at the same time soft plastic case. It can be used for diving up to 14 m.The flash is powered by 6 LEDs, so even in cloudy weather the quality of the pictures will be high. The main technical characteristics are:

• camera 16 MP;
• weight 209 g;
• focal range from 10 to 100 mm;
• optical zoom 4x;
• video quality 1920*1080 pixels.

Choosing the right camera is not that difficult. All amateur models have a durable, waterproof body that can withstand pressure that corresponds to a depth of 12-15 m. Before purchasing, it is recommended to study not only the technical parameters, but also customer reviews. It is better to consider branded devices with an optimal price-quality ratio.