SeaLife DC800 8 Megapixel Underwater Camera Rated to 200 Feet
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In June of 2008, SeaLife – the world’s leading maker of underwater dive cameras, introduces its most advanced digital dive camera. Sleek, modern design meets high-tech functionality in SeaLife´s new DC800 8-megapixel camera.
With 5 new dive-specific color correction modes, the DC800 makes it easier than ever to take sharp, colorful underwater pictures. Set the camera to Sea mode to restore lost colors typical for underwater pictures.
The DC800 provides 8.0 megapixel resolution, a 2.7-inch LCD display screen, 4x optical plus 5x digital zoom, SD/SDHC image storage up to 4GB (along with 32 MB of internal memory), and USB connectivity.
The rugged polycarbonate case is designed to provide a solid grip underwater while making all controls easy to operate, and when on land, the camera can be removed from it’s protective shell making it truly compact and convenient for taking photos above water.
Easily expand the camera with one or two SeaLife external flash accessories, and enjoy quick shutter response as fast as 0.1 second for superb action photography. You will also appreciate the benefits of a long lasting, rechargeable lithium-ion battery that easily provides a full day of shooting underwater.
Automatic focus goes from 2″ to infinity, and very impressive is the large format continuous video recording with sound. Depth tested to 200 feet and fully rubber armored for shock protection, this is truly a next generation dive camera for serious underwater photographers.
Get more details or order the SeaLife DC800
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Rugged Olympus Stylus 790SW 7.1MP Digital Waterproof Camera
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The shockproof, waterproof, freezeproof, sand and dustproof Stylus 790SW captures amazing 7.1-megapixel images in any situation — whether it is a day of fun at the beach, an action-packed snorkel adventure, a family ski trip or a night out with friends.
Built with durable materials and shock-absorption technology that minimizes the impact delivered to the lens and circuitry when dropped, the Stylus 790 SW offers superior durability in a point-and-shoot digital camera.
The camera’s good looks, smooth design and rugged exterior contain an array of innovative features and technologies that ensure sharp, vibrant images in any environment.
Stylus 790SW Highlights
7.1 megapixel CCD
Waterproof to 10 feet deep
Shockproof from 5′ vertical fall
Freezeproof to 14 °F / -10 °C
Face detection technology
Shadow Adjustment technology
Large, 2.5-inch HyperCrystal LCD
Bright Capture technology for low-light conditions
Digital Image Stabilization for crisp, clear pictures
Perfect Shot Preview mode
TruePic III image processor
LED Illuminator for macro shooting
Stylish, compact, rugged design
Slim profile at only 0.8 inches
27 selectable shooting modes
Movie Mode records VGA video & sound
In-camera editing features
Olympus Master 2 software
Get more details or order the Olympus Stylus 790SW
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SeaLife DC600 6.1 Mega Pixel Underwater Camera
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Fast Shutter response means you’ll never miss the action, and 6.1 mega pixels yield sharp, crisp enlargements. The SeaLife DC600 is easy to expand with up to two flashes, wide angle & other lenses, and all SeaLife accessories. The camera may also be removed from its waterproof housing for use on land.
Improving on the award winning DC500 model, SeaLife designers have put a high priority on ease of use with button positioning, a large 2.5″ LCD, full rubber armoring, and ergonomic buttons. The long-life lithium-ion rechargeable battery means this camera will be ready when you are.
Camera & Housing Features:
- 6.1 mega pixel CCD
- 2.5″ color LTPS TFT LCD
- Land & Sea exposure modes
- 12 land modes; Sea mode; External Flash Mode
- “Color Booster” for richer colors especially at depth
- White Balance control to restore lost colors
- Spy Mode for automatic continuous shots at pre-set time intervals
- Focus range of 2″ wide angle / 12″ tele zoom, to infintiy
- One-touch brightness control toggles all settings
- Movie mode - 640×480 VGA / 30FPS
- Rubber armored polycarbonate case
- Depth rated to 200 feet / 60 meters
- 3X optical plus 4X digital zoom
- Lithium battery & charger
- 10MB flash memory plus up to 1GB SD Memory Card
- Housing dimensions: 3.5″H x 5.5″W x 3.4″D (8.9cm X 14cm X 8.6cm)
Get more details or order the SeaLife DC600
Shop for all underwater cameras here
Ways to Eliminate Backscatter
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If you’ve been diving with a group, exploring a swim-through or tunnels, or else meandering along the bottom, you know that unless you’re first in line, it’s likely that the divers preceding you have already stirred up sand or silt or whatever is on the bottom.
Should you be thinking of taking pictures, it can be nearly impossible to get clear shots in this situation due to the lowered visibility. Over time, we learn it’s best to be first in line, or go without the group.
That is the most obvious form of backscatter, but even when no one has stirred things up, you can have a similar problem when photographing underwater.
Just look at this shot of a sunken tug to see what I’m talking about. This happened despite good viz due to the tiny particles in the water. These may be organic or non-living, but either way cause difficulty.
The reason is because the bright light from a strong flash aimed directly at the subject can catch these particles and be reflected back, which will blow the shot. It looks like snow due to the halo effect around each particle. And the closer the particle, the larger the snow.
This snow or backscatter can often be eliminated or reduced by preventing the flash or strobe(s) from firing directly at the subject. One way is to use a flash diffuser to soften and disperse the light from the camera’s built-in flash and lower its intensity. This is how the vase sponge shown here was captured.
Another way is to disable the cameras built-in flash and use an external strobe, or strobes, that can be positioned above or to the side(s) of the subject. This way you get the illumination desired, but since the light doesn’t come from directly in front of the camera, it gets reflected somewhere else.
Related resources: Underwater Camera Store
Sea & Sea DX-750G Digital Camera Set
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The compact and lightweight DX-750G provides 5.19 effective megapixels, recordable up to 7.08 megapixels. Straightforward operation makes it a particularly suitable system for neophytes.
Underwater photographers know it’s best to get as close to your subject as possible, thereby reducing the amount of water separating you. By definition, the more water, the dimmer the subject. This can be artificially compensated for, but getting closer gives a crisper picture.
The DX-750G allows you to get within 4 inches or 10 centimeters when in macro mode which can result in super-vivid pictures. For those times when you can’t get as close as you want, the 3x zoom feature helps get the job done.
DX-750G Housing Features
- Rugged polycarbonate construction
- Depth rated to 45 meters or 150 feet
- All controls on the 750G camera are operable underwater
- Equipped with a fiber-optic cable socket for off-camera strobe accessories
- Exterior bayonet mount for wide-angle conversion lens
- Lenses can be attached or detached underwater
- Built in flash diffuser partially or fully covers camera’s internal flash window
- Grip protector for a secure, comfortable hold underwater
- Inner hood and external LCD monitor hood shade the monitor for easy visibility bright light conditions
750G Camera Features
- High-quality CCD with effective 5.2 megapixel image quality
- Large, bright 2 inch LCD monitor with crisp contrast
- 35-105mm optical 3x zoom
- Wide range of focal lengths from wide angle to telephoto
- Macro photography shooting distance as close as 10cm / 4inch
- Automatic or manual white balance settings (five manual modes)
- 9 unique, decorative photo frame settings
- Movie function (video & audio) at 24 fps and 640×480 pixel resolution
- 16-MB built-in memory
- Records to SD/Multimedia Card for expanded memory option
- Powered by alkaline or rechargeable NMH AA batteries
- Compatible with PictBridge via USB cable interface from camera
Get more details or order the Sea & Sea DX-750G
Shop for all underwater cameras here
For Novice Underwater Photographers
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Maybe you’re destined to become a big name in the world of underwater photographers eventually taking your place among the greats. Or perhaps you just want to capture some memories and have fun becoming better at it.
When first starting out, would-be photo junkies embarking on either course above have one thing in common – they need to know the basics. A good place to start is by enrolling in an Underwater Photographer Specialty Course from PADI, or a similar course that teaches newbie’s how to begin.
This is as much for you as to protect the underwater environment from you. I’ve seen it far too many times, even with otherwise proficient and experienced divers, that as soon as they have a camera in hand, the focus on picture taking pushes everything else to the background. They trash the reef by banging up against it or holding onto it to steady themselves for the shot, plus they lose track of both depth and time exposing themselves to unnecessary danger.
But it doesn’t have to be that way, and a little training along with heightened awareness works wonders at helping to avoid killing oneself or the reef, or scaring the heck out of the critters you’re trying to photograph.
Here are some basic rules to remember when starting out that will help both you and the reef survive.
- Buoyancy Control. Make sure you’ve mastered the ability to maintain neutral buoyancy underwater. In fact it should be almost second nature before starting the process of acquiring new photography skills. Otherwise you’ll either be continuously fighting to hover in the water column or destroying the reef by banging against it. Again, there are programs like PADIs Peak Performance Buoyancy Specialty course to aid in learning this skill.
- Develop Patience. Take your time getting into the right position to compose the shot. Move deliberately through the water. Going slow and careful will often get you closer for a better shot since it’s less likely to startle the subject. Also, once they get used to you, there’s a better chance of capturing a more natural image of their behavior, or even an unexpected pose or expression.
- Don’t Touch. Resist the urge to touch anything. This includes all marine creatures and their immediate environment, as well as the reef itself. Trying to handle or move a potential subject may inadvertently injure or frighten them, or possibly provoke an attack. Using the reef for a handhold or letting gear knock against it, or brushing it with fins or anything else can destroy the tiny corals and other organisms living there.
- Remember the Basics. You’re a diver first and a photographer second. On land one needn’t pay attention to having enough air or drifting deep enough to risk decompression illness, but underwater it’s critical. Be certain to monitor the basics like time, depth and air, for ensuring your own safety. Forgetting to regularly check your gauges during the dive can lead to some disastrous results.
Getting some additional training will help with all the above, and certainly expedite the learning process. After that it’s a matter of practice. Be sure to first hone your diving skills to where you’re comfortable in the environment you’ll be shooting in, then learn the characteristics of your camera underwater.
After that it’s just a matter of practice. The more you do it, the better the results.
Related resources: Underwater Camera Store
Sea & Sea DX-860G Housing Plus Digital Camera Set
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Small but powerful, this DX-860G set packs 6.2 megapixel effective resolution into a convenient underwater package that’s perfect for beginners. The rugged housing is rated to a depth of 45 meters or 150 feet, and has a lever-type shutter. There is also an accessory shoe for attaching accessories.
An exclusive bayonet mount accepts a wide-angle conversion lens or a close-up lens designed for the DX-860G, and you can attach or detach each lens underwater. A built-in flash diffuser softens the built-in flash for more gently illuminated images, and it comes with a single fiber-optic cable socket for an external flash.
Main Features of the 860G Camera:
- Ultra-fine CCD with an effective 6.2 megapixels (maximum recordable 8 megapixels) provides high-resolution image capture
- Large 2.5-inch TFT liquid crystal monitor
- Light-weight, thin aluminum camera body
- Optical 3x zoom lens with a focal length from 35 to 105mm (35mm film camera equivalent)
- Macro mode on zoom lens will focus as close as 5cm / 2inch from a subject
- Adjustable white balance with settings compensates for different lighting (Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Fluorescent, Tungsten, Sunset, and Custom)
- Exposure correction function shifts auto-exposure settings to compensate for tricky lighting situations
- Continuous shooting function and auto-bracket function allow capturing quick bursts of images and automatic exposure variation
- Adjustable ISO sensitivity (Auto, 100, 200, 400) sets CCD for exposure control
- Special effect settings (Black-White, Normal, Sepia, RGB) for unique images
- Sharpness settings (Soft, Normal, Vivid) control image clarity
- Nine photo frame functions put graphic frames around your images
- Motion picture function - 640×480 pixel (VGA) resolution at 24 fps
- Built-in 32MB memory
- Accepts SD / multimedia cards for additional image-storage
- Lithium-ion battery and charger
- Compatible with PictBridge for image printing
Main Features of the DX-860G Housing:
- Bayonet mount accepts a wide-angle conversion lens or a close-up lens
- Lens can be attached/detached underwater
- Single fiber-optic cable socket for an external flash
- Built-in flash diffuser softens flash illuminated images
- Lever-type shutter release makes tripping the shutter easy and responsive
- Rugged housing rated to a depth of 45m / 150ft
- LCD monitor & inner camera hoods keep display clear in strong back lighting
- Accessory mounting shoe
The DX-860G + 860G set is a compact digital camera and underwater housing that makes underwater photography easy and enjoyable. SEA&SEA is renowned for its underwater imaging equipment, and one of the biggest attractions of any SEA&SEA product is the option to easily add quality external strobes and lenses. Skillfully use of these can greatly enhance your results.
Get more details or order the Sea & Sea DX-860G
Shop for all underwater cameras here
Sea & Sea DX-1G 10 Megapixel Compact Underwater Digital Camera System
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The image quality of the DX-1G is so superior it defies the term “compact”. With 10 million pixels, this next generation underwater digital camera system achieves a decisive balance between style and performance. It offers an uncompromising and sophisticated design together with advanced technology.
The globally recognized concept and benefits of this unrivaled, premium underwater camera system will satisfy the most demanding user. Its exceptional quality image reproduction, highly functional & stylish housing, and innovative features specific to the underwater environment, make the DX-1G unique.
In addition to the auto shooting mode that allows you to casually take pictures while allowing the camera to take care of all the details, the DX-1G digital camera is also equipped with aperture priority mode / manual exposure mode for optimal creative control.
The aspect ratio can be selected from three choices, namely 4:3, 3:2 (which is the same as with 35-mm film cameras), and 1:1. You can enjoy photography similar to that performed with a medium-sized camera. Pictures in the nostalgic tone of sepia can also be taken, in addition to monochrome.
The 1G camera is compatible with three types of power source, namely the rechargeable battery, AAA batteries and AC adapter. The high-performance rechargeable battery allows about 340 pictures to be taken. Also, the readily available AAA batteries allow about 30 pictures to be taken, making them convenient while traveling.
This system is comprised of the DX-1G housing and 1G camera which is removable from the housing.
Main Features of the 1G Camera:
- 10 megapixel CCD for superior resolution and image reproduction
- 24mm to 72mm 3x optical zoom
- 2.5 inch 230,000 pixel LCD monitor
- Compatible with RAW data storage
- Vibration correction and image stabilization
- 1cm or 0.4 inch macro mode for ultra close-ups
- Innovative SEA&SEA mode for optimal underwater images
- Aperture priority mode and manual exposure modes
- Maximum aperture (f-stop value) from f2.5 to f4.4
- MMC recording medium with an SDHC / SD memory card
- Equipped with 26MB built-in memory
Main Features of the DX-1G Housing:
- High-quality design with premium feeling & superior operability
- Equipped with two fiber-optic cable sockets
- Equipped with a built-in flashlight diffuser
- All shooting functions on the 1G camera are operable
- Wide-angle conversion lens for DX-1G is available (Optional)
- Outer hood and inner hood for LCD monitor
- The highest reliability with a depth rating of 55m or 180ft
- Soft grip protector for stability and comfort underwater
Get more details or order this Sea & Sea DX-1G
Shop for all underwater cameras here
Framing Your Shots – Differences Underwater
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Some of the various framing techniques used in picture composition have already been discussed, along with reasons why one may want to use them. Here we want to look at some differences and how shooting underwater can actually make framing almost automatic.
Keep in mind that shades of blue are all the color not filtered out by the water. Add in variations in visibility and light and you get some built-in frames for many photos. In fact, eliminating these is often the larger challenge with underwater photography.
For example look below at the helm in the bridge of this sunken ship. Being inside the ship is already a low-light condition anyway, but while the flash is sufficient to illuminate the helm in the foreground, it’s not powerful enough to light up much of the remaining bridge structure to the rear. You get a great frame plus a little mystique about the rest of the bridge. (photo credit: Paulo Calluf)
Something to keep in mind here is if your frame actually blocks something from view it can arouse viewers curiousity about whatever it is they can’t see. Also, creating a fuzzy or blurred frame can do the same thing, and the latter can be used to create depth or different moods as well. But with all these type techniques be careful you don’t end up drawing viewers away from your subject.
Below is another instance where the water absorbs the flash after a few feet leaving the deck gun and other background in shades of blue. Notice too that not filling the frame with the bottle and jar allow the viewer to get some context.
(photo credit: alfred_bham)
Th next image shows some ammunition being framed with the top of the barrel. The viewer sees not only some context but it also demonstrates containment or organization for the subject. You get the ammo, plus what it was stored in, along with just a bit of the remaining deck structure. (photo credit: jcator)
In this last photo, the frame used is an actual window. By showing the subject within this viewport on a sunken Betty bomber, he is not only nicely framed, but provides context in showing the size of the port itself. (photo credit: tropical pete)
Photo location: Truk Lagoon
Framing Your Shots – First On Land
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Unless one is merely flicking off snapshots, there’s generally a desired subject providing the impetus for taking a picture. Framing this subject is an effective way of drawing viewers attention to what you want them to see.
The frame can be any number of things from an actual frame like a window, door, or archway; to contrasting colors, light, and shapes; along with trees, structures and any number of other choices. Even using other people in the shot can work but will cause confusion if done poorly.
Frames are usually in the foreground of the image although from time to time you will see them in the background. In some intances they will be at the same depth as the subject as seen here with the Bluebonnets surrounding the Indian Paintbrush. In this case, they provide a little context as well.
And they don’t actually have to surround your subject – frames on top and bottom work just fine, as do those on the sides like the trees bordering this road through a rainforest. Notice how the dead leaves have a similar effect.
Aside from focusing attention on the subject in your photo, framing that subject may keep the viewers attention a bit longer. Here the tunnel makes a great frame while at the same time it could make the viewer curious about the location. Without more data, we might guess it’s anything from an old military fortress, to underground utility access, or even some sort of extensive wine cellar.
Framing can also add the third dimension of depth, or provide context by showing certain parts of the surroundings. This old windmill does frame the person standing inside but they are really too far away to be seen clearly. In this case the person standing under the arch actually provides perspective by making it easy to gauge the size of the windmill.
In this last photo, filling the frame with the subject would not be nearly as interesting as seeing that what he’s lying in is actually a stone bath tub that’s over 200 years old. It can also be seen that this vintage tub is located in its own structure with a view to the outside.
Furthermore, since bath tubs are a relatively modern device, one can probably deduce this very ancient one is something only the wealthy would have and therefore likely that we’re viewing a photo of an old-fashioned bath house on some sort of estate or plantation.
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