Video Housing

[Nitrox Junkie]

Hello everyone.

I have been thinking for quite some time now about getting a underwater video camera. We have a week long live aboard planned for July up in isle Royale, Lake Superior. I feel it is a must to have one before then.

My question to anyone who has one, how do you see what you are filming when you are diving? And how hard is it to use. I feel that is must be quite a bit harder than a regular camera because you have to keep it adjusted while you swim. Can you see the viewfinder while you are filming and diving? And what is the best camera for low light conditions on a limited budget. I know the prices can get up there but for my first I don't really want to go crazy.. I guess if I had an unlimited amount of cash it would not be a problem but I don't.

Any info would be appreciated. I just moved to Indianapolis and am fimiliar with Ikelite, but wanted some board input. Anytime I want a true and honest opinion the board is where I go because I know I will get an true unbiased opinion.

Thanks for any help that may come my way

Jeff Great lakes diver

 

[miked]

Hi Jeff,
I have some limited, but recent experiences in "shopping " for video housings. Couldn't find one in a style I like for for the camera I'd like to get.
To answer you question regarding how you see what you are what you are "filming":It varies from housing to housing.

Some makes require that you look through the viewfinder (a small viewport is provided.)
Other models have a monitor-optional of course- that mounts to the back of the housing.
Still other housings have a back that is partially, or completely "see through"(made of some high strength clear plastic, I think) and you look through it at the "flip out" screen that is part of the camcorder.
Much opf the housing design is very camcorder model specific.
For more info, I'd suggest doing a "search" of other threads on this topic. If memory serves, some contain links to manufacturers
sites, with more detailed info. One thing to keep in mind-some of the more elaborate housings cons more than the camcorder.
Good luck,
Mike

 

[CincyBengalsFan]

I have a panasonic video recorder. It is the most difficult to find an underwater housing for. $$$$ It takes a lot of this. Can anyone "HEP ME OUT?"

 

[ReefPilot]

Jeff:

I have a Sony PC110 housed in a L&M Mako housing. For even more money, I purchased an external monitor which mounts to the back plate of the unit. It is very easy to hold the unit in front of you while diving to frame the shots. A January dive in Cayman was my first opportunity to use the camera & housing. It is an excellent setup!

Unfortunately the wallet really strained for this purchase I took 300+ photos using the 128MB memory card and 3+ hours of video during 19 dives.

Check out my photos: Cayman Photos What an experience

 

[ReefPilot]

Bengalsmgtsucks:

Before my PC110, I had a Panasonic PV-DV800, which I had similar problems finding a housing. I made the mistake of purchasing the camera before I researched a proper housing for it. (Although I didn't purchase the video cameral exclusivly for diving) I figured with all the new housing coming out someone would make one for the DV800, but I was wrong. I was fortunate enought to sell my Panasonic and pick up the Sony.

Good Luck!

 

[CincyBengalsFan]

Thanks reefpilot. I may hold out a little while longer. I have the resources to make a housing and am considering it. I do wish that we had a sony or JVC video camera.

 

[ReefPilot]

Cool a DIY project? Sounds sort of scary, but definitely an interesting project.

 

[CincyBengalsFan]

The panasonic is not worth very much otherwise I would not attempt this.