The Best Cameras for Underwater Photography
The Best Cameras for Underwater Photography

Capture your underwater adventures on your sailing journey with our guide to the best cameras for underwater photography.

The Best Cameras for Underwater Photography

As you embark on your sailing adventure with your family, you’ll undoubtedly want to capture the incredible moments and memories you’ll create along the way. One of the most fascinating aspects of your journey will be the underwater world you’ll encounter. To help you document your underwater experiences, we’ve compiled a list of the best cameras for underwater photography.

In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of underwater cameras available, their features, and our top recommendations for each category. We’ll also provide some tips for improving your underwater photography skills.

Table of Contents

Types of Underwater Cameras

There are four main types of underwater cameras to consider:

  1. Compact Cameras
  2. Mirrorless Cameras
  3. DSLR Cameras
  4. Action Cameras

Each type of camera has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

Compact Cameras

Compact cameras, also known as point-and-shoot cameras, are small, lightweight, and easy to use. They’re an excellent choice for beginners or those who want a simple, hassle-free option for underwater photography. Most compact cameras have built-in waterproofing, so you won’t need to purchase a separate underwater housing.

Top Compact Camera Recommendations

  1. Olympus Tough TG-6: The Olympus Tough TG-6 is a rugged, waterproof camera that’s perfect for underwater photography. It features a 12-megapixel sensor, 4x optical zoom, and can capture 4K video. The TG-6 also has a built-in microscope mode for capturing stunning macro shots.

  2. Canon PowerShot D30: The Canon PowerShot D30 is a durable, waterproof camera that can withstand depths of up to 82 feet. It features a 12.1-megapixel sensor, 5x optical zoom, and can capture 1080p HD video. The D30 also has built-in GPS for geotagging your photos.

  3. Panasonic Lumix TS7: The Panasonic Lumix TS7 is a rugged, waterproof camera that can handle depths of up to 102 feet. It features a 20.4-megapixel sensor, 4.6x optical zoom, and can capture 4K video. The TS7 also has a built-in electronic viewfinder for easier framing in bright conditions.

Mirrorless Cameras

Mirrorless cameras are a step up from compact cameras in terms of image quality and performance. They offer interchangeable lenses, larger sensors, and more advanced features, making them a popular choice for enthusiasts and professionals alike. However, mirrorless cameras require a separate underwater housing, which can be expensive and bulky.

Top Mirrorless Camera Recommendations

  1. Sony A7R IV: The Sony A7R IV is a full-frame mirrorless camera that offers exceptional image quality and performance. It features a 61-megapixel sensor, 10 fps continuous shooting, and can capture 4K video. The A7R IV is compatible with a wide range of lenses and has excellent low-light capabilities.

  2. Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III: The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is a compact, lightweight mirrorless camera that’s perfect for underwater photography. It features a 20.4-megapixel sensor, 5-axis image stabilization, and can capture 4K video. The E-M5 Mark III is compatible with Olympus’s extensive range of Micro Four Thirds lenses.

  3. Fujifilm X-T3: The Fujifilm X-T3 is a versatile mirrorless camera that offers excellent image quality and performance. It features a 26.1-megapixel sensor, 20 fps continuous shooting, and can capture 4K video. The X-T3 is compatible with Fujifilm’s range of X-mount lenses and has a unique film simulation mode for capturing images with a classic film look.

DSLR Cameras

DSLR cameras offer the highest level of performance and image quality, making them the top choice for professional underwater photographers. They feature large sensors, fast autofocus systems, and a wide range of compatible lenses. Like mirrorless cameras, DSLRs require a separate underwater housing.

Top DSLR Camera Recommendations

  1. Nikon D850: The Nikon D850 is a full-frame DSLR that offers exceptional image quality and performance. It features a 45.7-megapixel sensor, 7 fps continuous shooting, and can capture 4K video. The D850 is compatible with Nikon’s extensive range of F-mount lenses and has excellent low-light capabilities.

  2. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV: The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a full-frame DSLR that offers excellent image quality and performance. It features a 30.4-megapixel sensor, 7 fps continuous shooting, and can capture 4K video. The 5D Mark IV is compatible with Canon’s extensive range of EF-mount lenses and has excellent low-light capabilities.

  3. Pentax K-1 Mark II: The Pentax K-1 Mark II is a full-frame DSLR that offers excellent image quality and performance. It features a 36.4-megapixel sensor, 4.4 fps continuous shooting, and can capture 1080p HD video. The K-1 Mark II is compatible with Pentax’s extensive range of K-mount lenses and has built-in GPS for geotagging your photos.

Action Cameras

Action cameras are small, lightweight, and designed for capturing high-quality video and still images in extreme conditions. They’re an excellent choice for those who want to document their underwater adventures without the bulk and complexity of a traditional camera. Most action cameras have built-in waterproofing, so you won’t need to purchase a separate underwater housing.

Top Action Camera Recommendations

  1. GoPro HERO9 Black: The GoPro HERO9 Black is the latest and most advanced action camera from GoPro. It features a 20-megapixel sensor, 5K video recording, and built-in image stabilization. The HERO9 Black is waterproof up to 33 feet without a housing and can be extended to 196 feet with the optional dive housing.

  2. DJI Osmo Action: The DJI Osmo Action is a versatile action camera that offers excellent image quality and performance. It features a 12-megapixel sensor, 4K video recording, and built-in image stabilization. The Osmo Action is waterproof up to 36 feet without a housing and can be extended to 197 feet with the optional dive housing.

  3. Olympus Tough TG-Tracker: The Olympus Tough TG-Tracker is a rugged action camera that’s perfect for underwater photography. It features a 7.2-megapixel sensor, 4K video recording, and built-in image stabilization. The TG-Tracker is waterproof up to 100 feet without a housing and has a built-in LED light for illuminating dark underwater scenes.

Underwater Photography Tips

Now that you’ve chosen the perfect camera for your underwater photography needs, here are some tips to help you capture stunning images:

  1. Get close to your subject: Water can reduce image sharpness and color saturation, so try to get as close to your subject as possible.

  2. Use a wide-angle lens: Wide-angle lenses allow you to capture more of the underwater environment and can help reduce the amount of water between you and your subject.

  3. Shoot in RAW: Shooting in RAW format allows you to capture more detail and gives you greater flexibility when editing your images.

  4. Use manual settings: Manual settings give you more control over your exposure and can help you achieve better results in challenging underwater conditions.

  5. Practice buoyancy control: Good buoyancy control is essential for capturing sharp, well-composed images underwater. Practice your diving skills to improve your stability and control in the water.

With the right camera and some practice, you’ll be well on your way to capturing stunning underwater images during your sailing adventures. Happy shooting!