New To Underwater Video - Need Advice

[Ltstanfo]

Hello All,

I was recently in Hawaii for a vaction and picked up a Sony DCR-HC52 (mini DV) to shoot some landscape video. Until now I have used my SeaLife DC500 for underwater still and "video".

I'm interested in trying to adapt my HC52 for underwater use and would like opinions / advice on what housing(s) might be available (I like the older Sony Marine Packs but there don't appear to be such for the HC52... or is the Sony MPK-DVF7 Handycam Marine Pack compatible? Since the DVF7 works with the HC42... which appears to be the same dimensions as the HC52... might this be an option). I know that Ikelite makes a housing but what else is out there?

I rarely dive below 200ft so hopefully that opens up the options a little.

Thanks in advance,
Ltstanfo

 

[diversteve]

Since your camera has LANC control through the A/V Remote Terminal there are some electronically controlled housing options to consider also:

http://www.topdawgvideo.com/housings.htm
(cost/depth reduced housing made by L&M for Backscatter)

These next two are electronic housing mfr's. Although neither lists your specific model, I believe both sell a housing for it. Also check that they have an A/V Remote adapter.

http://www.usvh.com/H.html
http://www.oceanimagesinc.com/index.html

Ikelite's primary competition in mechanical housings - in their price range:
http://www.equinoxhousings.com/

Although Ikelite builds a quality, reliable product, with your camera if you buy their external mirror, it will pan backwards. I know of at least one person who had Ikelite adapt their electronic reversing circuitry for use with a DCR model so you might check with them. Equinox offers is a back-mounted monitor option.

Ikelite now has a forum on Scubaboard, Equinox also has representation here.

http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/ikelite/
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/members/equinox-housings.html

The only Marine Pack I've held (not sure which model but it was for a DCR series camcorder) was heavier than some of it's competitiion. I carry-on my gear so that's a consideration for me.

Most (if not all) of these housings are depth limited to around 200'. The deeper housing mfr's - Gates, L&M and Amphibico - don't house your camera in their current offerings.

 

[Ltstanfo]

Thank you very much for the suggestions! I will be checking them out and purchasing one soon.

Regards,
Ltstanfo