Even If Not Underwater, Dive Cameras Excel

It only makes sense that digital cameras be able to take a certain amount of abuse without failing. After all we’re typically using them outdoors on some excursion, vacation or holiday because that’s where we are and the reason for taking pictures in the first place.

But many modern digital cameras aren’t up to the task. A little sand or mud, especially when combined with water will ensure they never work again. I don’t know about you, but I quickly get tired of having to be ever mindful of the camera when trying to capture subjects on the beach or in the water.

Same is true if I’m doing some backpacking, mountain biking, skiing, or any sort of outdoors activity where there’s a better than average chance of getting muddy or rained on, or taking a tumble in the snow.

Add in the increased likelihood of banging the camera against something, and I’m just as apt to leave it behind. Of course as soon as I do, that’s when I’ll really regret not having brought it along.

Well the good news is you can finally get a digital camera that is both rugged and waterproof, without spending a fortune. It used to be that the only waterproof cameras to be found were super-expensive, special-purpose dive cameras. I’m referring to those underwater cameras with special housings that scuba divers and underwater photographers used.

Now there are dive cameras that don’t cost that much more than a normal high-end, land-use, digital camera. And they are true underwater cameras where the camera and housing are integrated as a single unit, as opposed to housings made for land cameras.

The latter are fine and certainly have their place, but not for my purposes when taking land photos. I don’t want some bulky contraption that’s awkward and inconvenient to use out of the water, and that’s’ what I’d have using a regular camera in a watertight housing. Taking the camera out just puts me back to square one with the original problem – a camera I have to take extra care with and keep protected from the elements.

No, I’m referring to the lightweight (about a pound) small-sized (less than 4 inches x 5 inches) models in rugged cases that a handful of camera manufacturers have finally come out with. They don’t require any external housing because the camera housing itself is waterproof.

The case is made from high-tech, impact resistant polycarbonate composite materials, and have rubber cushioning at strategic points. They keep on working even if dropped from several feet up. Also, picture quality isn’t sacrificed to achieve their light compact size. These digital dive cameras can capture ultra sharp, high-resolution images, even while compensating for poor lighting.

If you’re used to the old-fashioned clunky underwater cameras, these sleek, modern designs are sure to impress. How about features like 6 megapixels (and greater); a large 2.5 inch LCD screen; depth rating of 200 feet; full rubber armoring; automatic continuous shooting with preset timing; ease of use ergonomic button designs and positioning; and extra long-life lithium-ion rechargeable batteries.

Especially useful are the settings that can be changed depending on whether you’re shooting above or below the water.

For "undersea" use these multiple exposure modes improve colors underwater, especially in low-light conditions typically found there, by automatically adjusting shutter speeds and aperture settings.

For "land" use they work like other land cameras allowing the user to adjust to conditions encountered above water. Some models have multiple preset modes that automatically adjust for the type of scene. Other features include face detection and image stabilization.

It was only by accident that I discovered these underwater cameras. I was wanting to replace my own dive camera, and in the process of researching available alternatives, came across these little gems.

I did find some models that are reasonably compact for underwater use but still have a separate camera that can be removed from the case. The camera itself is quite small and if you’ve just got to have something that fits in a shirt pocket, maybe this is for you.

I still prefer the fully integrated version, even though slightly bigger, simply because I really don’t like having to fuss with always being sure the camera is protected.

Plus I no longer need multiple cameras. I can use one that’s perfect for scuba diving, and does double duty for hiking, mountain climbing, ocean kayaking, going to the beach, being out on the boat, and pretty much any other activity one might think of.

Even if you aren’t a diver there are models for snorkeling, and although waterproof down to only about 10 feet or so, are less expensive. This is especially good news if you really just want a more rugged digital camera that won’t get cranky being splashed at the lake or used on a rainy day.

Get more details on these dive cameras, and many other digital waterproof cameras, plus photo tips, tricks, and reviews from our underwater cameras website at http://www.underwatercamerasplus.com/