Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Rate An Underwater Camera

The world of underwater photography


Selecting an underwater camera means making a few further considerations for both amateur and professional photographers. Underwater cameras range from cheap disposable units for use in the pool to professional digital cameras designed for use on deep dives. Rating a camera involves taking a measure of each of the underwater camera's unique features and comparing them your specific situation; this will help you find a camera suited to your needs.


Instructions


1. Determine the picture quality you want or need from your underwater camera. Underwater cameras can be digital or film-based and range from under $20 for disposable, film-based cameras to many thousands of dollars for waterproof digital cameras. The picture quality will vary based on the quality of the camera; if you are looking for holiday photos, a disposable camera may be appropriate but for professional work, a waterproof digital camera may be more effective.


2. Check the resolution on digital format underwater cameras. Higher resolutions will allow you to create larger prints and projects, but the file sizes will be much larger. Since changing a memory card is not always an option when shooting underwater, choose a resolution where you will be able to get a number of pictures on one digital memory card or stick.


3. Check the minimum close-up, or macro, distance. This will tell you how close you need to be to your subject for a detailed close-up shot, which is especially useful for photographing aquatic wildlife, coral and shells.


4. Check the controls on the camera. Like dry camera gear, underwater cameras range from fully automatic to fully manual and everywhere in between. Check to see where the controls are on the camera and whether they will be easy to reach during a dive.

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