best type of bcd for u/w photography?

[Dee]

I don't have a bit of trouble holding any position or changing positions even in minute increments. I understand her theory of the air moving in the BC bladder but you shouldn't have more than a couple of 'puffs' of air in it to start with if you are properly weighted. I won't go back to a jacket BC for anything other than pool where the chlorine is so hard on gear.

If it makes you feel better, go with the SeaQuest Quickdraw. It's an excellent jacket BC, I started out in one and still use it for pool sessions. Just make sure it fits you properly in all areas.

 

[scorpiofish]

Sorry, I disagree with esteemed Cathy Church. I also don't feed cheeze whiz to the fish to get a photo.

Here, I'll keep it simple. Dive with BC that you are most comfortable with. If you like back inflate, you will be better off in a back inflate than a jacket and vice versa.

I have two back inflate BCs. They each are quite different and require different trim when I dive (I always dive with a camera). How I set up my camera also requires different weighting. E.g. With a long port and 200mm lens with two huge strobes forward to the front of the port, I must wear ankle weights.

I prefer back inflate because it keeps the front of my body clear of everything.

Just remember, what fits you best will work the best, regardless of jacket/back inflate. Get one without excess lift to avoid excessive air movement and trapping. The camera you use and your natural weight distribution will determine how and where you place your weights.

 

[digigirl]

Scorpiofish,

thanks for taking the time to post a response.

As beginners, we're interested in hearing all viewpoints as we try to figure out what we're doing. We really appreciate the input of this forum's members.

 

[scubagatorgal]

I will chime in as I recently went from a jacket to a back inflate bc and always take a camera along. I looked at several bc's and narrowed down my choices to the latest Seaquest Diva and the Scubapro Ladyhawke. I did not have the luxury of being able to try the Ladyhawke underwater but loved how it felt when I tried it on in the shop. I was torn but loved the freedom that the Ladyhawke gave and felt like it would last a little better (Diva's under heavy use tend to get worn in the material over the breasts) and I liked the buckles for the integrated weights instead of velcro which also gets worn. While the Diva had some awesome features I really liked I just had a feeling that the Ladyhawke was the one for me and went with the "gut".

If you have the ability to try out both types I suggest that you do so but getting that "second nature" buoyancy control needed to get a tough shot is not more or less difficult with either type imho.

Choose a bcd that you are most comfortable with and the control will come with time, experience and if you desire practice...

 

[Mike Newman]

I really have enjoyed the constructive responses to this issue. I'm just coming to terms with underwater photography (in the very early stages). I use a Mares Dragonfly - for a variety of reasons - not least of all comfort and fit. Well, anything else is optional - right?

If I use a full wetsuit, it helps to distribute weight by taking most on a belt - easily jettisoned - and some for trim in the integrated pockets.

The views of those who have subscribed to this thread have been really helpful to me in considering how to proceed and what to think about as I develop my photographic skills - and buoyancy control.

MN