Need camera

[r00t0fallevil]

Hey everyone...

I hope this is the right place to post this.

Well, I am a novice diver and a novice photographer. Any recommendations on a decent digital camera that can go to 130 feet? I am looking to spend around $250.00

Thanks!

 

[dmax tim]

I'm looking too.
Would like to be able to take good land pics too.
How about up to $500.00

 

[cropit]

I am looking for one also. I would like it to have optical zoom and at least 3.0 MP. I know that will be over $500 but would like some models that are available. And do they work well on land too.

I presently have 2 digital cameras and would like to switch one for an underwater camera.

Thanks

 

[diversteve]

Hey everyone...

I hope this is the right place to post this.

Well, I am a novice diver and a novice photographer. Any recommendations on a decent digital camera that can go to 130 feet? I am looking to spend around $250.00

Thanks!

You might all have better luck posting in the Underwater Photography main forum. Or PM0 a moderator to move this thread there.

This sub-forum deals with:

"This is the place to share those Photoshop, PS Elements, Paintshop Pro, etc. techniques on how you did what you do. I hope those of you who are more proficient with the programs will help the rest of us learn them."

I wish I could help with your questions, but I shoot video.

You could also ask in the camera forums, I'm sure Canon, Olympus etc. make cameras in the price range you're interested in that can be housed reasonably.

Steve

 

[mike_s]

I doubt you'll find one that does optical zoom while in a housing.

for the first poster.
You can get an "el cheapo" for under $250, but you'll wish you got a better one.


I think I'm about to buy this one. (when Uncle Sam sends my refund check).
It's in a housing and can be removed for land pics also.

SeaLife DC310 Digital Camera and Housing 3.3MP Camera and Housing $359
http://www.divesports.com/mall/sealife_SL148.asp

With the strobe is about $500
http://www.divesports.com/mall/sealife_SL145.asp
(but I've already got the strobe from my 35mm version of the camera).


You can get a better camera than this, but it depends on what your needs are. If you're gung-ho into photography, you'll want a better camera. If you just want a point and shoot to take some cool pics to share your dive with others, which is what I want, this will work great for you.

my 2 cents worth. hope it helps some.

-mike

 

[Dee]

Moved to U/W Photography for more exposure.

 

[dbh]

My $0.02

If you are a novice diver.....wait until you get more experience and have your buoyancy control well tuned. Not only will a camera be a task overload, you will most likely be a "Reef Crasher" until your buoyancy is in check.

Get a camera that has manual controls. There is not a camera made where auto controls will give you a decent picture a very high percentage of the time. The great thing about digital is that you can shoot topside (for free) and get to where adjusting your aperture & shutter speed is second nature. Something such as an Olympus 5060 in an Olympus housing will run your around $600. Add an external strobe when you can afford it. If you buy a camera with all auto controls you will outgrow it VERY fast. Might as well spend a little more up-front...it will save you $$$ in the long run.

HTH,
Dave