Since the dawn of diving, there has been interest in capturing images of the remarkable ecosystems and animals of the sea. Although underwater photography was initially a complex process, advances in technology have seen it become an accessible, absorbing pastime.
Stills Photography
The advent of the digital age has seen an explosion in the popularity of underwater photography, with more and more divers creating images of their dives for posterity. However, producing good results consistently is a craft, and this is what separates the professional from the amateur photographer.
Camera Systems
Underwater camera systems for stills photography can be divided into two categories. The first consists of truly amphibious cameras that do not require a housing to be used underwater, and can also operate on dry land. The pioneering Nikonos V camera is a famous example of the type. Amphibious cameras often have interchangeable lenses, and are available in both film and digital formats. These highly specialized cameras feature oversized controls for ease of operation underwater.
The second category, housed systems, are conventional cameras in waterproof cases. The cameras themselves can be divided into two sub¬categories: compact devices, and SLR (single lens reflex) models.
Compacts come in film and digital formats, and are light and convenient to carry and use. Most models offer fully automated focus and exposure control. You cannot change the lens on a compact, but some have variable focal length (zoom) lenses. After-market add¬on lenses that attach to the outside of camera housings are also available.
SLR cameras, which are available in both digital and film versions, allow the use of a range of lenses and offer complete creative control over key functions such as aperture, shutter speed, and focus, for this reason they are invariably the choice of professional underwater photographers, although SLR-compatible ports, housings, and lighting systems can be very expensive.
Camera Housings
Both compacts and SLRs require a housing to protect them from water damage.
Underwater Lighting Systems
Lighting is one area where compact digital cameras fall short. Their built-in flashes are too close to the lens to avoid backscatter. You can distance the light source from the lens by using an auxiliary strobe light, bolted to the housing. SLR-based and amphibious systems often use strobes in pairs, mounted on flexible arms to allow the subject to be lit from different angles. Knowing how to position strobes to best advantage and manipulate power settings is essential, though many cameras will automatically trigger the strobe to fire for the correct duration for the exposure.
Housing Maintenance
Maintaining a housing is relatively straightforward. O-ring integrity should always be checked and the ring lightly lubricated with silicone grease. Make a final visual check before diving. Housings should be rinsed in fresh water as soon as possible after a dive. Operate the mechanical controls during rinsing to prevent a build-up of salt crystals. If water penetrates the housing, it will ruin the camera, so a few moments taken to prepare and rinse gear can prevent expensive damage.
Underwater Photography Tips and Techniques