Underwater camera or housing??

Reef Keeper 18 · Apr 2, 2012

So heres my dilemma im trying to save up some $$ for an underwater camera. But i was wondering should i get a camera housing for the Canon Mark II which would cost about twice as much or just settle for the $1000 underwater sea life camera which only takes close up pictures

Reef Keeper 18 · Apr 2, 2012

I mean is it better to get like an aqautica or ikelite housing or keep it simple and go for the sea life dc 1400 with flash?

soccerbag · Apr 2, 2012

How about an underwater photo box from Melev? Your Mark II attaches to it and you can take the pics from the top of the water. I would say that investment (of around $40 I think) would be easier than buying an expensive camera just to take pics of your tank. If you are dive certified and regulary dive and take pics underwater, that may be a good option (a good underwater tank or camera housing). But just about every phenomenal picture you see on this site is taken with a photobox. They are cheap and work great. Just a thought....

Reef Keeper 18 · Apr 3, 2012

I'm looking for a dive camera because we are certified now and going to hawaii this summer along with taking many vacations to florida throughout every year

ingtar_shinowa · Apr 3, 2012

Id start small. I use a a olympus tough with a houseing and have had no issues. if you like diving and a big into photography get something cooler!

Reef Keeper 18 · Apr 3, 2012

Yeah the sea life is 1/2 the price but can only take close up pictures. I was going to go with that but then realized i could get a case for our mark ii with a light for about $2000

Poseidon · Apr 3, 2012

Underwater work requires a LOT of light, or your images will come out very BLUE. If you are going to be diving regularly, then go for the case, and at least 2 external flash units as well. If you are going to HI once a year... well I would stick low budget and get something to share memories with. Photography is an expensive hobby without adding the UNDERWATER part, then it gets Really crazy!

A top down box is an excellent option for your tank at home though, it makes a HUGE difference.