Making sure that you have a waterproof camera is a great idea both to make your photography capabilities more varied and flexible, especially when travelling, and also for specialist use, such as underwater or fishing photography.
There are two main kinds of waterproof camera equipment. Most users will tend to get a compact underwater camera with a waterproof casing, for all uses and possibly also to take brief videos. More advanced users will prefer an SLR, or single lens reflex camera. These are not waterproof, but you can get a special waterproof housing.
A compact waterproof camera is great if you value portability and convenience over flexibility and advanced features. Nine out of ten non-professional users will find that a compact waterproof camera will cover their needs, and will benefit from added features such as video recording.
But maybe you want more features, or you already have an SLR camera. In this case, it is better to waterproof your camera with an underwater housing, being able to take advantage of all the benefits of an SLR camera, such as interchangeable lenses, filters and extra capabilities.
You need to be aware of the important differences between taking pictures on land and in or under water with a waterproof camera. The differences are mainly due to the different medium water or air. Water is far denser than air and light travels differently through it. It is also full of small particles such as plankton or sand, which reflect light. When underwater, it is better tot take pictures using the digital LCD and not the viewfinder. This will allow you more control of the results.
You will also use flashlights quite often, whether the inbuilt one on your waterproof camera or an external one. Without a flashlight, underwater pictures will tend to have little color or contrast. If you opt for a more powerful external flashlight, it will need to be built for underwater use or you will need an appropriate underwater housing for it as well.
If you don’t plan on taking an extra flashlight, try to use your waterproof camera in shallow waters when the sun is high, between eleven and two in the afternoon. This will allow you to make best use of natural light.
Night shots are very good to catch the more elusive marine animals, but your waterproof camera will have to be equipped with some extra lights specific to the photography situation.
Whatever the hour of your picture-taking, it is best to use your waterproof camera in shallow and rocky shores, or near coral reefs. These give best results and will provide you with lots of interesting subjects. Of course, you could also take pictures of your kids near the beach.
You should also acquaint yourself with the basic rules of maintenance for underwater photography equipment, to make sure that you will enjoy your waterproof camera for a long time. Always wash saltwater off with freshwater, for instance as salt reissue can damage waterproof gaskets and o-rings.
Don’t use any chemicals to clean a waterproof camera or underwater camera housing, freshwater applied with a damp cloth is best and will ensure the long life of your equipment.
