If you are often near or in a large body of water, a waterproof camera is a great choice, especially now that these once costly devices are becoming more affordable by the day. Familiarize yourself with the points below to make sure that you will make the best out of it.
1) First of all, the fastenings: Your camera is only just as waterproof as its gaskets, so check these regularly, especially the ones places that are opened more frequently, such as memory card slots and buttons.
2) Resolution: While this is less important than for normal cameras as underwater pictures will tend to be more blurry anyway, but there’s no reason not to get a decent resolution, especially for zooming into pictures once you took them. With a modern camera, aim at 5 megapixels or more.
3) Looks and bulkiness. These are important, as you need to make sure that the device will fit your hand and your swimming or diving style. Some cameras come in bright colors to aid visibility, but not everyone likes them. If there is something that you miss, shop around some more and you may just find what you are seeking.
4) Enquire about the industry standard: This ensures that the waterproof camera has been professionally built and checked. For instance, JIS (Japan Industry Standard) 8 is good enough for a camera that you will only use in surface waters (3-4 meters maximum), while for a dive camera you will need it to conform to more exacting standards.
5) Characteristics: make sure that you have all the extra capabilities that you will need. Whether it’s a lens mount for filters, extra flash sockets, or simply different burst modes and automatic settings, check for them and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance at the shop.
6) Once you have that waterproof camera, spend a thought on cleaning the device regularly. This is very important as it will make or break the waterproofness of the device, and make all the difference between a long-term companion and a gadget that breaks down after the second or third dive. Sand and dust will be your greatest enemy.
7) Another big enemy of waterproof cameras are aggressive chemicals, and this does not just include acids or petrol. That camera is for use in lakes, rivers and the sea, not in pools which are sanitized with chlorine and other substance. Keep your new waterproof camera out of hot tubs and aquariums too.
Waterproof does not mean submersible in all conditions. Know your maximum depth rating and adhere to it strictly. And of course, to not submerse a camera if it’s just splash-proof. Also, avoid exposing your waterproof camera to direct sunlight and extremes of temperature.
9) Learn about your waterproof camera and its performance gradually. Don’t take it take it to a dive right away, experiment with it in a shallow place first. Read the manual and try out the effect of different picture options, and you will soon be shooting like a pro.
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