Time to step up to a better camera.

[Teamcasa]

I used to use Canon F1 SLR on land and loved it. Now in this digital era I have found that having a screen to frame the shot was very convenient. Now that I have started diving with a camera, (Sony DSC-V1 Ikelite housing and flash) I have discovered that my old eyes need a larger screen.

Time to step up to a better camera. DSLR cameras don’t seem to use the rear screen for preview so I will get a camera with a large rear screen. However, I would prefer a DSLR but doubt I could see thru the view finder well enough to frame a shot. How do you guys do it? Maybe I’ll just shoot video!

Dave

 

[alcina]

If you want DSLR you could check out the Olympus offerings or invest in a magnifier for your housing - the one for the Subal is SWEET!

 

[Warren_L]

I think Olympus is the only one that currently does live view on the LCD screen. Some feel the need for it some don't. I find that for shooting WA, the viewfinder is not a problem, but when doing macro, it is a bit more difficult - but a good viewfinder can help immensely. Aquatica makes one for the D200 and their housing, but they're not cheap.

 

[RonFrank]

Oly makes a camera with a live preview, the E330.

Some housing manufactures make very nice viewfinders with magnification built-in. Plan on some serious cash if you go with that option as the manufactures tend to be high end to begin with, and the add on viewfinders are generally $500~over 1K.

My aging eyes have issues with small print especially in dim light, but I have no trouble framing images in an Ike Housing.

 

[jarhed]

I shoot a Nikon D200 in a Sea & Sea Housing with the std view finder. After years of shooting a compact camera with lcd "live display" I was a little concerned, but It's not hard to use. I suspect that with a dive or 2 you will find that it's no problem to use the small viewfinder.

Best advice is to find someone that will rent you one to try out.

I love shooting the DSLR underwater, I had outgrown my compact.

Take care,
John